Author's Note: šš“, M/M, Mpreg, Mates, Limes & Lemons later on, so be forewarned.
Naruto's Warped POV
"Kiiro," I heard his voice whisper against my lips, it was low and filled with a bitter undertone as we reluctantly parted from the kiss that felt both sweet and excruciatingly sorrowful.
"What?" I asked, confusion and desperation twisting in my stomach. "Would it be so wrong?" I felt my eyes locked onto his, searching his crimson gaze for any glimmer of hope, any sign that there was more to his refusal than mere words.
"Timing," he replied, the word dropping from his lips like a stone. Which felt vague and unsatisfying. Were all humans this frustrating, or was it just him?
"Timingā¦ TIMING!? If ya don't want to be with me just say it!" I snapped, unable to mask my frustration. His excuse felt flimsy, like a brittle bridge ready to crumble under the weight of my emotions. I could feel the sting of tears threatening to spill over, but I pressed my eyelids together to keep them at bay, stubbornly unwilling to show him how deeply this affected me.
I heard him chuckle softly at my dejected appearance, a sound that ignited a surge of anger within me. I glared at him, envisioning daggers flying from my eyes, hoping he could sense my hurt. He sighed heavily, almost like a concession, as his demeanor shifted slightly.
"Yes, timing. Another Shinobi war between my people is looming on the horizon, and I've been playing both sides biding my time for too long. Now, it's time for me to choose a side," he finally explained, his voice laced with gravity and conviction.
"War?" My heart raced at the implication, a wave of panic washing over me. What if he couldn't come back or worse? "You can come live with me and my people! I'll make them understand. I'm a prince; they have to listen to me!" I protested, my mind racing with thoughts of danger and loss. I wanted him safe, and I would do whatever it takes to make my people understand.
A small smirk played at his lips, but this time it carried an air of sadness that made my insides twist.
"You showed me it's never too late, Kiiro HonÅ," His gaze bore into mine, and I could sense the intensity flickering between us.
"Never too late for what?" I asked, curiosity piqued, my heart aching as I searched for answers in his eyes.
"For atonement," he replied, his voice almost a whisper as if confiding a truth he had struggled to articulate. Honestly, the depths that he was willing to go for his atonement was what I feared.
"So, that's it? Ya never comin' back?" I felt a crushing weight settle on my chest as the reality of his words sunk in. Would this be the last time we saw each other after the kiss we had so tenderly shared? The world around me felt like it was urging me to crumble beneath the sudden despair.
"No," he shook his head firmly, the determination in his eyes a flicker of light against the dark uncertainty, but he gave me hope.
"I can't tell you when I will return, and I don't expect you to wait for me." His expression softened, revealing his struggle.
"I don't care! I'll wait centuries if I have to!" I exclaimed, driven by a fierce sense of loyalty. Without thinking, I flung my arms around him in an unprompted embrace, burying my face into his midriff. I wanted to absorb his warmth, to feel anchored in this moment for as long as I could.
He allowed the embrace for a few more precious moments before gently prying me off, his hands firm yet tender as he freed himself from my grasp.
"You have to let me go," he urged, his voice heavy with reluctance.
"No! I don't want to!" I cried, my grip tightening as if I could physically bind our fates together. Every fiber of my being resisted the idea of letting him slip away.
With a soft chuckle, he found a semblance of humor in my desperation, but the sadness in his eyes remained.
That night, I found myself standing in the cool, evening air, a silent witness to the retreating figure that had captured my heart. I watched as he walked away, his silhouette gradually disappearing into the encroaching darkness of the night. Each step he took felt like a piece of me was being pulled away, leaving behind an ache that resonated deep within my chest. It was a heart-wrenching sight, filled with unspoken words that seemed to linger in the air.
The following morning, I was far from prepared for the fierce competition that lay ahead. My mind was clouded, preoccupied with the memories of last night, replaying every moment in vivid detail. As I geared up for the imminent battle, I could feel the weight of uncertainty pressing down on me. The clamor of blows clashing and warriors shouting filled the arena, yet, funnily, it was the noise that only further distracted me. I found myself watching the skilled fighters grappling for victory, their persistence for my hand was intense, but my thoughts continuously drifted back to him the one I had lost again to the shadows.
Day after day, I faced the relentless onslaught of challengers, each battle more grueling than the last. I nearly succumbed more times than I like, teetering on the edge of defeat but my stubbornness wouldn't allow it.
But one fateful night, amidst an extravagant dinner where all my potential suitors gathered, a sudden surge of resolve ignited within me. I rose from my seat, holding my goblet high, feigning a toast to the bold warriors surrounding me. With my heart racing and a fierce defiance burning in my eyes, I declared, loud enough for everyone to hear, that I had no intention of marrying anyone, now or ever.
I boldly conveyed that they could fight as fiercely as they wished, but I had no plans of losing this battle for my freedom. The room fell silent, the weight of my proclamation hanging in the air, a clear challenge issued to all who dared to pursue me. I dared not to look in my grandfather's direction, and yet I could still feel the heat of his gaze.
True to my word with each fight it only made me stronger and more determined. Itachi-momo-kun words stuck in my mind. I would make them work for my hand in marriage.
Days flowed into weeks and weeks turned to months and still, there was no sign of him. At this point, I doubt he would return or if he was still alive.
At one point during my nightly ritual, the weight of it all pressed heavily on my shoulders, tempting me to give up and call it quits. Yet, my Will ran deep in my veins, compelling me to do it again despite the odds. I found myself standing once more at the edge of the cliff, which loomed majestically over the human village below. The festival that Itachi-momo-kun took me to, many moons ago was now a cherished memory that I hold dear to my heart, filled with laughter, joy, and that spectacular kiss that still gave me chills.
I couldn't help but imagine the reaction of the villagers if I decided to pay them an unexpected visit now. I'm positive it would surely evoke surprise and possibly a little chaos if I were to visit them in my Kitsune form. The thought brought a chuckle to my lips, but soon silence enveloped me, filling the space where my laughter had been.
"You are the worst at keeping a low profile, you know that," came the smooth yet teasing tone, laced with a familial warmth that made me whirl around so abruptly that I nearly lost my footing and tumbled off the edge of the cliff.
"Oy, you're back!" I exclaimed, my heart racing with excitement as I practically leaped over to him. I watched his crimson gaze soften, a welcome sight that filled me with relief.
"That's the thing about espionage; it takes time," he replied, his tone both serious and playful.
"Is a war still gonna happen?" I asked, the gravity of his words sinking in.
"Yes, but this time they are better equipped." The answer lingered in the air between us, heavy. I hesitated, wanting to pry further but sensing that delving into the specifics wouldn't do us any good. After all, even in victory, something is always lost, and I had no desire to dwell on that heart-wrenching notion.
"Ya ready?" I inquired, tilting my head as I caught the raised brow on his face, a clear question hanging in the air 'For what?'
"I told ya I would take ya home with me!" I asserted my refusal to take no for an answer evident. After all, I was a Kitsune of my word.
"I doubt that will go over smoothly," he replied, amusement filtering through his calm demeanor.
"I don't care! C'mon, let's go!" My impatience came to the surface, a sense of urgency propelling me forward.
"Since you are so persistent how about this," he said, a hint of mischief dancing in his eyes.
His movements were deliberate, as he placed a hand on my shoulder, and I watched in awe as he transformed before me. His body shifted and morphed rapidly, feathers erupting from his skin until he became a sleek, all-black crow, his feet now where his hand had rested just moments before.
"Whoa!" I exclaimed, utterly impressed. A smile spread across my face as I realized I had underestimated his capabilities.
"My kin is going to love my new pet," I teased, watching him ruffle his feathers in playful indignation at my remark. The mix of amusement and disbelief in his sharp gaze only made me chuckle all the more.
As I strolled along the familiar path toward my home, I couldn't help but notice the curious glances cast my way. Every so often, I pointed out various landmarks to Itachi-momo-kun, who was perched on my shoulder. "Look over there, that's our clinic," I said, gesturing toward the modest building with its slightly weathered faƧade. In response, he let out a loud caw, his voice filled with enthusiasm. In his current form, he was animated and chatty, much to my delight.
"That's the arena where I'm reluctantly forced to fight," I continued, my tone filled with a hint of reluctance as I indicated the imposing structure in the distance. "And that gigantic tree over there? That's my home." Excitement bubbled within me as I pointed proudly to the towering tree, its branches stretching skyward, a natural sanctuary that I cherished.
Suddenly my ears picked up the sound of footsteps, I turned to see Deidara approaching me, his demeanor casual yet inquisitive. "Who are you talking to?" he asked, raising an eyebrow at the sight of my animated companion.
With a playful laugh, I replied, "I've bewitched this crow with my beauty! Now he won't leave me alone." Itachi bobbed his head and rattled his beak, nipping at my hair in a playful manner.
Deidara dramatically pinched the bridge of his nose, his expression a mix of frustration and amusement. "Set that thing loose! It reeks of human!" he exclaimed, unable to mask his distaste as he glanced at my feathery friend with exaggerated revulsion.
Itachi cawed loudly at him which I could only assume he was slinging insults.
"I don't think he likes you," I teased
"Well, the feeling is mutual," Deidara retorted.
"This is my kin Deidara and Deidara this is Itachi-momo-kun." I introduced the two. I watched as he scrunched his nose up in disgust.
"You named that thing! Naruto you should never name a stray. What if you form an attachment to that mangy thing."
I laughed, "Too late." Instinctively my fingers went up to brush the top of his head.
Deidara sighed as if he was tired of my endeavors, "I'm going to pretend as if I didn't hear that." He said before walking away.
I shrugged off the awkward moment and continued my tour, my footsteps echoing softly against the path before making their way inside, as I started to ascend the spiral stairway, I felt a combination of emotions which was eagerness and worry about my room. I could only hope that I took the time to clean the space properly. As the door creaked open, I was met with an unexpected sight Itachi-momo-kun soaring through the air and landing gracefully on my bed, his presence filling the room with a whimsical energy.
He settled onto my mattress and, despite a stir of unease in my stomach, I masked it with a bright smile and carefully shut the door behind us, ensuring our little secret remained safe. "Welcome to my sanctuary," I declared, spreading my arms wide and twirling playfully, a flourish that enveloped the room in the warmth of my enthusiasm. "What do ya think?"
As I turned to face him, I noticed Itachi-momo-kun perched on my shelf, his curious gaze sweeping over my collection of trinkets each one a remnant of my fond memories. "I had a lot of time on my hands," I said with a hint of bashfulness, rubbing the back of my head as I glanced around, the familiarity of my space comforting.
Just then, his attention caught mine, and I watched in awe as he began to shift, his form transforming from a tiny creature back into his striking human form, a puff of black feathers dissipating into the air like a fleeting shadow.
"You are going to have to show me how to do that," I said, my voice laced with amazement as I approached him, feeling a flutter of excitement in my chest. By the time I reached him, he had taken his seat at the edge of my bed, and I found myself captivated by the way he exuded an effortless charm.
"Show you what?" he replied, a playful lilt in his tone that made my heart race with a mixture of exhilaration and nervousness. I couldn't help but smile; the thrill of sneaking a human into my room felt almost rebellious, and it sent thrills tingling through my veins.
Deliberately, I slid onto his lap, positioning myself so we were facing each other, the air between us thick with unspoken tension. "You're my captive now," I whispered mischievously, the tips of our noses nearly brushing against one another.
"Oh?" he replied, amusement sparkling in his eyes, drawing me deeper into the moment.
"And now ya can't ever leaveā" I murmured, my voice softer now as I cupped his cheek in my palm and leaned forward. The world outside faded away as I closed the gap between us, our lips meeting in a deep, lingering kiss that ignited something untamed within me. It was the sensation of his hands traveling up my sides igniting a flame inside me. I grind against his frame creating the desired heat I craved. I failed to notice my room door open.
My head reeled from our kiss, causing me to jerk my gaze toward the bedroom door. A moment of disorientation washed over me, as I half-expected to see someone standing there, but when I turned back, to my bed it was empty. Confusion clouded my mind; I was positive there had been someone there just moments ago. I took a step further into my room, feeling a strange mix of bewilderment and uncertainty in my memory.
The familiar surroundings felt surreal, and I couldn't shake the feeling that I had just slipped through a momentary gap in reality. What was happening? Why was I standing here, lost in this jumble of thoughts and emotions? The air around me hung heavy with an almost tangible sense of pain as if the very atmosphere was saturated with unspoken sorrow. I found myself caught in a whirlwind of confusion, grappling with the unexpected shift in my surroundings. Glancing around, I realized I was once again straddling a figure whose dark eyes held a magnetic pull, drawing my gaze in a way that felt both familiar and disconcerting.
Yet, something felt off. Why did those eyes appear shades darker when I was so sure they had been crimson before? And wasn't his hair supposed to cascade longer, framing his face in a darker halo? He looked even more youthful than I recalled, reminiscent of a boy on the cusp of manhood, with a freshness in his expression that misrepresented his transitioning years.
Itachi- No, that wasn't right.
"Sasuke-momo-kun?" I whispered, my voice barely above a breath, tinged with both surprise and apprehension. He smirked at me, a knowing yet enigmatic expression, but allowed the silence to stretch between us, thick with unspoken words.
Just then, my peace was shattered as the door swung open with a violent force, my grandfather bursting into the room like a storm. His face was flushed with anger, his brow furrowed deeply as he glared at us.
"You think I wouldn't notice! You brought a human here to my home! In my realm!" he bellowed, the accusation echoing in the air like thunder, leaving no doubt that he was less than pleased with the situation.
Sasuke's POV
I watched as Naruto casually walked towards me with purpose, his presence radiating an undeniable warmth that made my stomach flutter wildly. The soft glow of the sun highlighted the playfulness in his grin, making it impossible for me to look away. "Ya alright, ya look as if ya have seen a ghost?" he inquired, his voice low, playful, and inviting. He bridged the gap and brushed his fingers lightly against my chest making me forget what I was worried about in the first place. I felt a spark jolt through me, leaving me momentarily speechless and a feeling I have not felt often, flustered.
Taking a deep breath to steady myself, I finally managed to ask, "How are you feeling?" My eyes searched his face for any hint of distress, but he looked perfectly fine. Still, a nagging feeling gnawed at me about what Mito might have done to him, a shadow of worry that lingered in the back of my mind.
"I'm great now that you're here," he replied, his gaze locked onto mine with an intensity that made my heart race. I felt a warm smile creep across my face in response, a gratifying sense of calm and relief washing over me just from being in his presence. But despite the warmth maturing in my chest, that underlying worry remained. I couldn't shake the need to find out more. I had to know!
So, I asked directly. "Do you remember anything?" He stood on the top of his toes leaning in closely.
"I remember, this," he whispered teasingly and bit softly on my lower lobe as it gently snagged between his teeth as if he was claiming his territory. Somehow, whatever it was I was worried about had slipped my mind once again. Slowly, Naruto released my lobe to face me with his smile and those blue orbs that I found myself getting lost in once again. I hadn't realized how close our faces were as he merged his lips with mine, in a deep sensual kiss.
"Erm, I'll leave you two alone." I heard Jiraiya clear his throat but even that slipped my mind.
It was Naruto who broke the kiss, his gaze shifting to his kin with an expression of surprise as if he had just become aware of his presence. "Wait, you've been here the whole time, just spying on me and Sasuke-momo-kun?" He chuckled, the warmth of the moment hanging in the air like a sweet aftertaste.
But for me, the atmosphere was heavy with tension. My body went rigid as I gripped both of his shoulders, searching his eyes for clarity. "What did you just call me?" I demanded the warm feelings I had a moment ago evaporating. Was it possible that Mito had in deed replaced all of his memories?
He flashed a wide smile, oblivious to my torment. "What I always call you!"
"No!" I exclaimed, my voice sharper than I intended. "You never called me that! We never had nicknames or pet names or whatever the hell you want to label them!" Panic surged within me, and I felt Jiraiya's hands gently pry me away from Naruto, who looked utterly confused.
"I don't understandā" his soft voice trailed off, laced with worry, as if he could sense the storm raging inside me.
Jiraiya stepped in, his tone firm yet gentle. "You're mate is still recovering from all that blood loss. He needs rest, and so should you, Kit."
Frustration rippled to the surface, and I shook my head defiantly. "This is going to backfire, mark my words!" I turned on my heels and stormed off, desperate for air. I had promised to tell him the truth, to shield him from more lies, and yet here I was, thrust into a web created by Naruto's kin, trapped in a nightmare of half-truths and painful memories.
As I made my way back that night, a familiar figure stepped into my path just outside Naruto's bedroom door. It was Jiraiya, his arms crossed and a look of both concern and annoyance etched on his face. "Next time you decide to storm out and smell the flowers, at least let us know where you're headed," he admonished, his voice steady but laced with reproach. "You had Naruto worried sick, and that's an extra layer of stress that the baby doesn't need."
I threw my hands up in exasperation, "I'm sorry! How about next time, why don't you just come along as my babysitter?"
The old sage sighed, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air. "Listen, smartass," he replied, his tone deepening, "I get that you're not thrilled with how things have played out, but what's done is done. We need to know if you're truly on board with this."
"Why do you even care?" I shot back, frustration blazing in my chest. "It seems to me like my opinion doesn't matter one way or the other." I crossed my arms defiantly, my heart pounding with a mix of anger and suspicion.
He stepped closer, the intensity in his eyes unwavering. "Do you want to be a part of his life?" he asked, a challenge lingering in his words.
"Of course I do!" I exclaimed, the truth of my feelings spilling out before I could stop them. My chest tightened at the realization that I had been grappling with my emotions for too long.
"Then you need to accept it and move on," Jiraiya said emphatically, an unmistakable hint of a threat underlying his calm demeanor.
Feeling the tension mounting, I pressed my lips together and attempted to push past him into the room, but he blocked my path, firmly.
"We have a room set aside for you," he declared, a hint of smugness creeping into his voice. "It's tradition that the future mate must sleep in their own quarters until the wedding night."
I couldn't help but let my disbelief show, my eyebrows shooting up in astonishment. "I think we skipped a few steps in this whole process," I retorted, incredulous.
"Did you not hear me? Let's go, lover boy," Jiraiya persisted, entirely serious.
His demeanor left me feeling disoriented, as though I'd stumbled into an alternate reality. Now they wanted to enforce sleeping arrangements it was absurd.
From that day forward they had sneakily orchestrated every moment to ensure that whenever I attempted to get Naruto alone, there was always someone conveniently present to interrupt us, creating an insurmountable distance between us. I found myself frustrated but still determined, I resolved to bide my time, waiting until they let their guard down long enough.
Each morning, I would rise before the first light of dawn, my pulse racing with tension. During these quiet hours, the world slowly awakened around me, and I found comfort in the routine that had begun to shape my life. This place, once foreign and strange, had gradually grown on me, like a second home. For the past two months, I had been living among the Kitsune, absorbing their culture and ways of life, which, surprisingly, were more similar to my own than I had initially expected.
Naruto's friends spoke of various clans, each with unique characteristics and customs. Some of these clans were more feral, reverting to their elusive beast form under the cover of night. They exhibited a wildness that both fascinated and intimidated me, showcasing the intricate balance between human and beast. Each clan had its own identity and traditions, and I was eager to learn more about them as I navigated this strange new existence. The arena had become an ideal sanctuary for my workouts; it rarely saw visitors outside of scheduled events. This allowed me the solitude I craved, a rare chance to immerse myself in my routine without the distractions of onlookers.
As I settled onto the sandstone floor, the scent of sweat and stone mingled in the air around me. I began my morning stretches, each movement deliberate and focused, feeling the tension ease from my muscles. However, an unexpected sound broke the quiet rhythm the unmistakable creaking of the heavy arena doors swinging open and then shutting firmly.
A shiver of awareness raced down my spine. I instinctively knew my moment of solitude was being interrupted. Yet, rather than succumbing to curiosity, I chose to push aside any distractions, redirecting my attention to my breathing. Inhaleā¦ Exhaleā¦ I focused on the calming cadence of my breaths, hoping to maintain my tranquil space amid the intrusion.
"Naruto's been asking for you," Kiba's voice cut through the morning air, sharp and shrill, like nails against a chalkboard. I couldn't help but roll my eyes at the sound; the last thing I wanted was to deal with him now. "It's not like I'm avoiding him. He knows exactly where to find me," I shot back, trying to keep my tone light despite my annoyance.
"You sure about that? He mentioned that you two don't even share a bed," Kiba replied, his brow furrowing with concern. I paused mid-stretch, feeling the tension in my muscles. "Yeah, well, you can thank his uncle and grandfather for that little rule. They keep insisting that I'm still healing or that we should only share a bed once we're officially married. It's ridiculous. He's carrying my child; and it's not like he can get pregnant again," I explained, exasperation creeping into my voice.
Kiba shifted beside me, beginning to stretch in synchrony. Besides Naruto and his band of friends, he was one of the few willing to engage with me. Most of the old Kitsune eyed me warily, unsure of what to make of my existence. Kurama preferred it that way, allowing them to believe I was part human and demon a mixed breed. Those thoughts only deepened my isolation. It was the younger generation that had taken an interest in me.
"Uh, never mind. He thinks ya mad at him."
"Are you kidding me?" I sighed, pinching the bridge of my nose in frustration. "He's the last person I'd be mad at. Trust me, I've got a list of grievances."
"I dunno that's what he says."
Deep down, I was acutely aware that I had been deliberately avoiding him, and it wasn't because I didn't care. The truth was, I felt cornered by circumstances beyond my control. Naruto truly believed that a significant portion of his experiences with my brother had been with me. This misconception hung heavily in the air, a shadow I couldn't escape. I had no desire to delve into the details of what had transpired between them. I feared what I might uncover.
I sat with my legs crossed, the ground cool beneath me, feeling a sense of resignation wash over me. "What's going on between the both of you?" Kiba asked, his voice cutting through the silence as he settled down next to me, his curiosity clear in his expressive eyes.
I couldn't find the words; instead, I simply stared ahead, lost in my thoughts. The idea of growth was daunting, and the concepts of opening up or asking for help felt like insurmountable obstacles, as foreign to me as a distant land.
"I need a favor," I stated bluntly, breaking the stillness around us.
Kiba feigned shock, raising an eyebrow in mock surprise. "The great Sasuke needs my help?" he exclaimed, clearly enjoying the moment.
"Forget it!" I snapped back, a flash of irritation creeping into my tone.
Kiba, ever the joker, laughed and gave my back a playful slap. "No, no, I'm just teasing, man. Whatcha need?"
With his attention finally piqued, I pressed on. "Are you aware of the transformation technique?"
"Yeah," he replied, interest brightening his eyes.
"I need you to change into me. And I'll change into you," I explained, hoping he would understand the gravity of my request.
"Sounds fun! I'm going to wreak havoc in your mix-breed form," he chortled, clearly excited at the prospect.
"Are you going to help me or not?" I shot back, my patience wearing thin.
"Yes, yes, I will," he replied, a grin still plastered on his face as he relented.
I was hoping that I did not make a mistake.