Disclaimer: THIS is a mixture of Naruto and Cyberpunk Red. I do not own the characters just borrowing them for my plot.
Warnings: This chapter will contain Gore, Sexual themes, and character death this will also be a dark romance.
The eddies were worth the risk—at least that's what 26-year-old Naruko Uzumaki kept telling herself. As the piercing alarms of the Uchiha Weapons Manufacturer, known for its cutting-edge technology and advanced security systems, filled the air, a sense of dread settled over the building. Ominous red lights flickered to life, casting eerie shadows in the now-chaotic hallways as lockdown commenced.
Swiftly, Naruko sprang into action, shoving her friend and teammate, Hinata Hyūga, to safety as the heavy security protocols engaged. With a deafening hiss, thick sheets of metal descended, sealing the building and trapping the source of the crisis and those who were unfortunate enough to get trapped inside.
The tension hung thick in the air, a chilling reminder of the danger lurking within. Unfortunately, Naruko was not so lucky; in saving her friend she was locked inside with the same thing the building was trying to contain.
The lemon-haired Netrunner stood, paralyzed with fear, as her body refused to move. She could hear pleading and screams of terror followed by the sound of someone gurgling on something liquid, as the gurgling abruptly ceased, she heard a shockingly loud thud, coming from the hallway adjacent to hers. She could feel her heart pounding in her chest as the sound of footsteps grew louder, a grim reminder of what was to come.
She watched as a tall man clad in all black, clutching a katana with a ruby-colored blade had casually strolled around the same corner.
He approached her with an air of arrogance that screamed behold me as he spread his arms far apart. The closer he got the more Naruko noticed what looked like dark specs of red splattered on his sleeves and his arms, while that same color of red dripped from his fingertips. He looked like a painter displaying his masterpiece but Naruko knew that was not paint splattered upon him.
Once he was about a human length away, she had closed her eyes imploring whoever was listening on the other end of her feed to help her, unaware that someone had stepped from behind her shielding her with their body, much to Naruko's horror when she opened her eyes she saw her friend, Neji Hyūga, get skewered, by the same katana with the ruby colored blade. He was the one who stepped in the way, saving her. She wanted to help, but her mind was consumed with terror.
She could only watch as Neji's last words were to her, urging her to run and save herself.
"No!" her voice sounded raw, unfiltered, and unrecognizable to her ears as she cried out. She dropped to her knees as if the world around her was being plucked from beneath her feet. The next words to escape her lips seemed to spring forth from the depths of her subconscious, "You son of a bitch!"
The pain of loss and shock was overwhelming as Naruko watched her friend's lifeless body fall to the ground. She could feel her heart breaking as she realized he would be gone forever.
The man in all black seemed to loom over Neji who now lay face down on the tile floor, and now that he was closer, she realized he was cloaked in assassin's attire with a flowing hood that made him appear like a harbinger of death.
An eerily, he wore a mask that only concealed his nose, mouth, and chin which merely added to his ambiguity.
Naruko's heart raced as she kept repeating in her head this could not be real. The entire time her blue eyes watched him twist his katana that was still lodged in her friend's back until it made a sickening crack before he removed it.
She knew she had to act swiftly before she met the same grim fate.
Death was no stranger to her—it had claimed her parents before she could even walk or talk. But this was different. Neji had been her anchor in a stormy sea of loss, and now he lay there gone to this world, all because he had tried to protect her.
Guilt tightened its grip around her heart; she should have heeded his warning! Adrenaline surged through her as she fought against the heavy weight of despair. Desperately, she attempted to rise and confront her assailant, but her legs buckled beneath her, paralyzed by the crushing reality of her loss.
She wondered how this had gone so incredibly wrong. She knew she was already dead. Somehow in her crew's search for a code, Naruko had unintentionally released a ghost. She watched, her breath hitching in her throat, as he stepped boldly in front of her.
The air between them crackled with tension, the silence so profound it felt almost suffocating as he observed her intently, his dark eyes narrowing at her as his dark hair fell forward, shrouding his features like an ominous veil, but slowly those dark pools widened in recognition.
There was an unmistakable apprehension in the air, as if he was a lion poised to leap into action, every muscle in his body coiled and ready but he did not pounce which was baffling. "I owe you a debt of gratitude for setting me free," he said, his voice low and obscured by the mask that concealed his identity.
"Go to hell," she retorted, her voice trembling as tears slid down her cheeks. Yet, despite her vulnerability, she locked eyes with him, a flicker of defiance. She clenched her jaw, determined not to grant this monster the twisted pleasure of hearing her beg for her life.
Even as her heart raced with terror and the chilling reality of her situation sank in, she braced herself against the encroaching despair. A part of her desperately clung to hope, yet another part began to reluctantly accept the cruel hand fate had dealt her.
He leaned in closer. She could hear the gust of breath against his mask. "Hell..." The word hung in the air as he paused, a mischievous glint in his eyes. Then, to her surprise, he let out a soft chuckle, genuine amusement dancing on his lips. "That's nothing new to me, little canary; I've been navigating that territory all my life."
Defiantly, Naruko spat in his face, but he stood there, unyielding and unbothered, to the point where she questioned her own perception of the event. He simply chuckled, wiping the saliva from his mask with a nonchalant air, "Suit yourself."
Frustration simmered within her, and she turned her head away, determined to put an end to this twisted game. With a heavy heart, she finally brought her gaze back to Neji. "I'm so sorry," she whispered, her voice barely above a tremor, filled with regret and sorrow. The lemon-haired blonde inhaled deeply, drawing the cool air into her lungs, closing her eyes briefly, and summoning the courage to face what lay ahead.
As she gathered her resolve, she sensed a shift in the atmosphere around her. The figure, attuned to her intent, took a measured step back, his expression inscrutable as he steadied his katana, the blade gleaming ominously in the red light. His unwavering focus pierced through the tension that enveloped them, and in that electrifying moment, darkness surged around her, consuming her in its depths.
Six Months Earlier.
This was the payout their crew had been waiting for.
The type of payout that would have them set for a good while; was too profitable of an opportunity to pass up. All they had to do was locate a code, simple enough, right?
The team would have to go undercover as maintenance workers and gain access to the company's servers, which was no easy feat. Luckily, they had the dynamic and prestigious Neji Hyūga, Hinata Hyūga's older and more influential cousin, and Naruko's best friend.
Neji was the insider they needed to help get them in. Despite his past ties with the Uchiha corporation, Neji was willing to assist Naruko and her crazy group of friends on their mission.
However, even with Neji's help, they still had to pass a rigorous training and background check before gaining access to the building. And even then, they would have a supervisor monitoring their every move. But with their skills and expertise, they were confident they could evade the guards and security cameras once inside.
So, here the five friends sat in a circle. Naruko sat with the back of her chair cradled against her breast, while her arms draped playfully over her chair. She waited for the plan to be laid out. Just then, a man about the same age, with dark chocolate hair and a five o'clock shadow with a high ponytail began to speak. He had a cigar hanging loosely from his lips.
The little bit of light that made it into the worn-down fuel station reflected off two silver lines that outlined both cheeks, from countless implants and cyber-ware he had added to his body over the years.
"This plan may seem risky," Shikamaru Nara began only pausing to take a drag of his cigar, "but I have confidence in our team's abilities. Hinata and Naruko are our most skilled Netrunners which makes them the perfect candidates for gaining access to the server room. Sakura's quick thinking and resourcefulness will be crucial in case anything goes wrong. And Kiba's charm and charisma will help us create a distraction to divert attention away from the server room. With Neji's support and guidance, Naruko will be able to navigate the servers successfully. Together, we have a strong and capable team that can handle any challenges that may arise."
Regardless, the client's offer of a large down payment for a particular code had piqued their interest.
The client promised to pay a hefty sum of 550 thousand Eurodollars each, for completing the job. This substantial amount was enough to sway the crew's skepticism and convince them to give the job a shot.
The promise of such a large reward ignited a fire within the five members.
Although Shikamaru's calm and laid-back demeanor may have hidden his true abilities, it was his dedication to the task and his unwavering trust in his crew that would ensure the heist's success.
With careful planning and meticulous attention to detail, Shikamaru masterminded the entire operation, and he knew without a doubt the rest of the crew members would follow his lead.
In the end, the new and mysterious client's bold offer of a large down payment proved to be the catalyst that ignited a spark within the crew. It motivated them to dedicate themselves fully to the job and overcome any obstacles that came their way.
With their newfound motivation, the crew was ready to successfully execute the code heist and walk away with a small fortune in hand.
Shikamaru's calm and stone-faced demeanor may have fooled others, but it was his attentiveness and unwavering trust in his crew that made him the true mastermind behind this heist.
The following morning, they were prepared. Naruko and Hinata waited for side by side, their hearts racing as they got ready for the interview that could help change their lives. Friends since childhood Neji was the glue. He was the one to introduce them. Back then when they were little, he would sneak Naruko food starting a close friendship between them.
They couldn't have come from more different worlds. Naruko, a fierce street-smart girl from the inner city, had taught Hinata, the gentle scion of the powerful Hyūga family, how to survive in a harsh world where every meal was a battle.
Hinata, despite her privileged upbringing, defied her family's expectations by rejecting an arranged marriage to one of her older cousins, an act of rebellion that led to her being cast out. Naruko wrestled with guilt over her friend's plight, believing it was her bold influence that triggered Hinata's fall from grace. But in the chaos, Hinata had blossomed. No longer hidden in her family's shadow, she had transformed into a quiet force of strength.
Under the vibrant skies of Konoha City, two fearless risk-takers stumbled upon the elusive Kakashi Hatake, the city's most sought-after ripper. He recognized a spark in Naruko—wild, passionate, and always eager to seize the moment. With a knowing smile, he became their mentor, equipping the girls with their first implants and the essential tools for navigating the thrilling depths of the deep web.
Together, they were ready to embark on a journey like no other, blending adventure with the thrill of hacking in a world just waiting to be explored.
As they prepared for this next step, Naruko felt a fierce protectiveness over Hinata. They had each other's backs, two unlikely allies ready to steer a world filled with challenges and aspirations.
Hinata might have been sweet and shy, but she was no longer a pushover. Together, they were a formidable team, ready to seize their future.
After enduring a thorough weapon scan in the lobby, Naruko was finally granted access to the interviewer's office. The moment she stepped inside, recognition hit her like a tidal wave—Obito Uchiha, the formidable CFO of Uchiha Manufacturing Corp, and Orochimaru, the enigmatic chief weapons engineer and biogenetic mastermind, were seated before her.
Their faces loomed large on towering buildings and dazzling holograms, making their presence shockingly surreal.
This was no ordinary meeting; she had anticipated discussing matters with the senior manager of maintenance, not two of the company's most powerful figures.
A current of tension crackled in the air, sending her heart racing. Was this just a routine interview, or were they onto her? Uncertainty gnawed at her, and she could feel the weight of their scrutinizing gazes, heightening every instinct she had to stay alert.
"You must be Naruko Uzumaki. Do have a seat," Orochimaru announced, his smile stretching unnaturally across the translucent skin of his face as he gestured toward the wooden chair that faced them. Intrigued, Naruko settled into the seat, her posture confident despite the intensity of the moment.
Obito, glancing at the file laid out before him, opened it to reveal a treasure trove of her credentials. "You come highly recommended by the esteemed Neji Hyūga," he remarked, his tone laced with a mix of disbelief and curiosity.
He was flipping through her resume like it was a gripping novel, skepticism etched across his features. The dim light filtering through the window cast delicate shadows, highlighting the furrow in his brow as he absorbed the impressive details of her experience.
It was clear that he was grappling with the disparity between his expectations and the remarkable talent sitting before him.
"What my esteemed colleague means to convey is how eager we were to finally meet you, someone whose reputation precedes them," Orochimaru said, a charming smile stretching across his face.
"I'm truly honored," Naruko replied, bowing her head in a respectful gesture. She mentally vowed to be on her best behavior.
Curiosity gnawed at her—had her raven-haired friend embellished the truth? What exactly had he said to pique the interest of her new bosses? She would have to pry those details from him later.
Surprisingly, the interview unfolded seamlessly, leaving her in high spirits as she stepped out. With a spark of determination, she decided to reach out to Neji through her Comm device, eager to uncover the unknown behind his persuasive words.
Raising her arm, she admired the holographic phone ringing above her wrist. It chimed a few times before the image of a striking raven-haired figure with captivating white eyes flickered to life on the projection.
"I expected you to call later," he mused.
"What did you tell them?" Skipping pleasantries she got straight to the point.
He smirked knowingly, deliberately sidestepping her question, and relishing the silence that hung between them.
As the seconds ticked by, he watched her squirm under the weight of his teasing gaze, her lips forming an annoyed pout that only heightened his amusement.
The tension in the air thickened a playful challenge sparked in his eyes as he enjoyed the moment of uncertainty.
"I told them the truth," he finally said. His smooth, deep voice had an air of flirtation to it.
She could feel a warm flush creeping across her cheeks, a stark contrast to the cool evening air. "I guess I have you all fooled," she said with a chuckle, trying to dismiss the playful flirtation that hung in the air.
Just a couple of weeks ago, she would have welcomed this attention with open arms, her heart racing at the prospect of romance. But things had changed—she and he had given dating a shot, only to discover the vast chasm between their worlds.
He was from a life of privilege, where security and stability were given, and he sought someone to settle down with, someone to share a future full of certainty.
In contrast, Naruko's spirit thrived on adventure and exploration; she longed to discover all that the world had to offer before contemplating a life of commitment. He had promised her the world, an enticing offer filled with comfort and love, yet all she truly wanted was the simplicity of his friendship, unencumbered by the weight of expectation.
"I'm going to have to see you in your new work uniform." He said.
"I'd like that." She smiled warmly at the hologram, and as if reading her mind the next words that came out of his mouth were what she was silently thinking.
"I miss you," he said, his voice tinged with sincerity.
She felt a flicker of warmth at his words and decided to indulge him just this once. "How about I meet you in five?" With that, she ended the call, a smile creeping onto her lips.
Hinata, Sakura, and Kiba had successfully landed positions at the prestigious Uchiha Weapons Manufacturer as well. With the first phase of their intricate heist behind them, they now faced the meticulous task of covertly monitoring the facility's daily operations.
Day after day, they blended seamlessly into the bustling environment, keenly observing the ebb and flow of personnel and taking detailed notes on the security protocols that governed every corner of the establishment. They mapped out the sprawling layout, highlighting key areas such as entrances, exits, and blind spots while remaining vigilant for any signs of vulnerability that could be exploited in the future.
Weeks turned into months as they committed each routine and security shift to memory, gathering vital intelligence that could mean the difference between success and failure. Their patience and attention to detail would prove essential in planning the intricate next stages of their bold endeavor. Naruko and her lively band of misfits had dedicated several months to orchestrating the perfect heist.
With determination and a keen eye for detail, they poured over the intricate security system of the high-security Weapons Manufacturer building, meticulously identifying potential vulnerabilities that could be their ticket in. Each late-night brainstorming session was filled with hushed excitement as they mapped out the layout of the building, pointing out blind spots and weak points with unwavering focus.
Countless hours were spent not only discussing the strategy but also rehearsing their escape routes, practicing each turn and maneuver like a well-choreographed dance, preparing for any unforeseen hiccup that might threaten to derail their carefully crafted plan. The thrill of the challenge only fueled their resolve, and they were more than ready to put their elaborate scheme into action.
Present Day
It only took seven shots of tequila for Konoha City Mayor Danzo Shimura to cast aside all inhibitions and embrace the night's chaos.
"Do you remember me?" The question hung in the air, laced with intrigue.
"I can't say that I do." Mayor Danzo chuckled, his gaze sweeping over the enigmatic figure who had boldly slid into the booth beside him. The dimly lit nightclub pulsed with energy, and somehow this stranger had managed to charm his way as the VIP section.
A grin spread across the mayor's face, amused by the audacity. He was no stranger to the thrill of late-night escapades, where the company of both men and women often led to unexpected sexual adventures. He glanced casually at his bodyguards in the adjacent booth, but they were too far gone in their own revelry to intervene. The night was ripe for surprises, and he loved a good mystery.
As laughter and music swirled around him, Mayor Danzo Shimura felt a rush of excitement. This was turning into one unforgettable birthday celebration.
The masked stranger let out a low, amused chuckle, "I figured as much. Allow me to jog your memory."
He leaned in close, their faces merely inches apart, causing Danzo to instinctively mirror his movements as if pulled by an unseen force.
The pulsing bass of the music reverberated through the room, causing the glasses on the table to tremble perilously. An electric tension hung thick in the air as he whispered into Danzo's ear. The mask obscured his features, but it also prevented the warmth of his breath from brushing against the mayor's skin—much to Danzo's secret chagrin.
"I warned you long ago that you would be the first I sought out once I was free."
As he reclined back into his seat, a smug satisfaction danced in his demeanor. He observed the aging Mayor with keen interest as his words sank in, watching his eyes widen in dawning horror.
"Impossible!" he hissed, his voice laced with disbelief. Yet, as he locked his gaze onto those smiling, black eyes, a chilling realization settled over him. He could no longer deny the truth.
"How—" His voice faltered, desperation creeping in as he glanced helplessly at his bodyguards, who were now slumped silently in the shadows. In a frantic attempt to draw their attention, he clumsily knocked over his bottle of expensive wine, the dark liquid cascading across the table.
The man dressed in all black watched impassively as the bottle shattered on the floor, glass shards scattering like confetti. But the Mayor's loyal protectors remained oblivious, unmoved by the commotion.
"A little canary set me free," he remarked casually, an amused glint in his eye. "If you're hoping to rouse your men, I'm afraid that won't work; they're otherwise disposed at the moment." He settled comfortably in the booth, chin resting in his palm, savoring the unfolding drama with tangible delight.
Under their downward faces, Danzo's aging eyes noticed a red liquid that was now starting to ooze beneath their faces.
"I can give you whatever you want!" he stuttered, all his confidence gone and replaced with desperation for self-preservation.
"Your life will suffice." As the figure slowly stood, holding his signature katana, Danzo began to yell.
"If you kill me you'll have no help! They will hunt you to the ends of the earth! No! No!" These were the last words that the mayor said to his table guest as his head was severed from his body. Nobody in the bustling club seemed to pay any attention to the figure as he strode purposefully toward the railing of the VIP booth.
The thumping bass of the music vibrated through the air, melding with the laughter and chatter of partygoers lost in their own worlds. He leaned against the polished banister, surveying the vibrant scene unfolding beneath him. Dancers moved with carefree abandon; their bodies illuminated by the shifting purple glow of the LED lights that bathed the room in an otherworldly ambiance.
Their laughter echoed up to him, a stark contrast to the storm brewing within. He remained shrouded in shadows, his expression unreadable, as simmering wrath boiled just beneath the surface.
This frantic, nosy world, alive with energy and distraction, would not overwhelm him; he would adapt, biding his time until the moment was right.
The insistent beeping of a monitor had jolted Naruko awake, her heart racing as she sat upright in the unfamiliar surroundings of the hospital room. The space was bright and clean, the décor far more modern than the healthcare facilities back home.
Her mind raced with anxiety over the mounting bills; she couldn't possibly afford these lavish accommodations. A wave of confusion washed over her as she struggled to piece together how she had ended up in this place.
Was there a mix-up?
Suddenly, memories crashed into her consciousness with terrible clarity, each one a sharp reminder of the events that had led her here. This wasn't a nightmare; it was a stark reality that twisted her stomach into knots.
Overwhelmed, she leaned over the edge of the hospital bed, the sterile scent of antiseptic heavy in the air. As her pulse quickened, the beeping intensified in her ears, and she was powerless to stop herself from vomiting, the contents of her stomach spilling over the side and onto the floor.
That is when she noticed two pairs of expensive shoes from across her hospital room.
She was not alone.