Permission To Seek

CHAPTER 13 Third Wheel

Can men….

Iruka gazed over at Kimimaro with slight disbelief; the man laughing with Naruto for over an hour as they walked back to the Hidden Leaf. The man stood six feet tall with white hair that hung to the middle of his back; pale green eyes and flawless skin made his age undetectable. Iruka’s discovered Kimimaro is a ninja from a clan he can not remember, having been stolen from his family at a young age and other than the life he spent with Orochimaru he didn’t have any memory of any thing else. The man developed a quick friendship with Naruto something Iruka personally felt meant he must be a good person for Naruto to like him so much.

The only drawl back to Kimimaro becoming serious friend to Iruka is that the person has a major boner for him. He knew this because the white haired ninja all but told him:

‘Iruka-sensei I have a major boner for you! Please say you will go out with me?’

‘What you cannot say stuff like that to me; Naruto is right there!’

‘What is wrong with this boner?’ He whipped out a large bone.

This caused Naruto to laugh himself silly until he ran to off to relieve himself.

The worst part of the little joke is that Naruto had cooked it up; but they both had to deal with his temper once Naruto returned. The thought of the joke still upset him with the two still laughing like old friends. Kimimaro had shown up not long after Kakashi and Sasuke left the village to complete the mission. Naruto at the time was still out of sorts and the possibility that both boys would pick up where they left off was reason enough to separate them for now and meet back in Konoha later. Now Iruka dreaded allowing that to happen, he missed Kakashi terribly their relationship too new in his opinion to have the sexy Kimimaro hitting on him at every opportunity.

“Kimimaro-san what kind of friendship do you have with Shino’s uncle?”

“Why would you ask me such a question, I already told you he is a very good friend, we have a nice relationship.” He smiled at the small golden-hair ninja, he had his suspicions about the boy he had eventually directed all his questions back to the Aburame Clan.

Naruto blushed twitching horribly. “I wasn’t trying to pry; I just wanted to understand if you are a supplier of some of the teas they drink because I remember…” snapping and fuming, he suddenly stopped talking his face breaking out in a guilty sweat.

His travel companions gazed at him with raised eyebrows. Iruka broke the stiff silence; “what do you remember Naruto.”

“Uhmm… enema….” He stammered the flush deepening the color of his face.

“Well, Naruto if you want to really know we are lovers.” Kimimaro said slyly with a grin.

That was enough to unnerve Naruto completely. He gagged looking at the pale-eyed male in astonishment then, throwing his hands over his ears, he ran away chanting. “I did not just hear that, I did not just hear that, I must forget I heard that!”

“Naruto don’t go so far!” Iruka called sucking his teeth; he looked at the ninja at his side. Disapproval etched in every corner of his face. It did not last long.

His hands scooped up in a tight grip, held at chest level, in the tall man’s grasp. Kimimaro leaned in closer toward the brown eyes; pulling the small hands close to his heart; measuring how far would this man allow him to go.

“Oh I just noticed your eyes are so brown they resemble the redwood trees of that surround the Hot Spring Village. In other words, one look in your eyes and I feel I am home.” He smiled warmly at the smaller ninja. Iruka face reverted in several shades of red, similar to Naruto. “Oh that blush suits you so well.” Moving closer so that only a few inches separated him and Iruka’s noses his voice deep a sultry. “You are a very sexy man I would like to discover all your hidden secrets to awaken that latent passion.” He moved forward to steal a kiss.

(((BANG#! POW@!CRACK*$!*!)))

Iruka stomped off holding his sore fist in front of him while calling for Naruto to wait. Kimimaro sat on the ground holding his bruised face, gazing at the back of the fuming ninja teacher. ‘I completely underestimated his strength I think I love him but he is a dangerous man so I will need to be careful.’ He stood if he had not used his Kkkei Genkai to protect himself he would definitely be hurt. Lowering his hand the bone under the skin receding he flexed the cheek and followed his travel companions.

Naruto squat down near a small stream looking at the water; Iruka’s calls finally reached him; judging by the tone he knew he better not keep walking away from the other pair. It was what Kimimaro said that bothered him. Can men have such relationships and is it ok? For the longest time he thought himself strange to have feelings like that for another boy. Then he tried to reason that it was just another form of admiration, no big deal. After a while, it came back to wanting the person to be around him all the time. Now he finds out that men can have ‘relationships.’ It just seems so overwhelming. ‘How do you do that with a man?’ His first experience was horrible but it did not take the feeling out of his heart to understand what would happen if he could connect with the person and if men are sharing relationships like, opposite sex couples then it must be good. ‘There must be a way to experience something more than the pain he felt with the one he admired.’

“Naruto, why did you run off like that?” Iruka dropped on the ground behind him; pulling off his backpack.

“Iruka-sensei can men really have relationships with other men and are relationships between two men really ok?” Naruto kept his gaze fixed firmly across the stream.

Iruka stared at the back of Naruto in wonder, ‘I guess the time for puberty comes to us all.’ Then he had an uncomfortable idea what may have occurred between Sasuke and Naruto the other day.’

“Of course they can.” Kimimaro just catching up kneeled down next to the blonde ninja on the streams edge. “It is not that different than in heterosexual relationships although less people understand homosexual relationships. A relationship with another man can be just a fulfilling and loving.”

Iruka fumed, ‘This bastard shows up interfering when the question is not directed to him.’ He did not want to get into an explanation of male and male relationships with Naruto in the middle trying to decide whom to believe. He clenched his teeth deciding to discuss the issue with Naruto later.

Naruto looked up at the pale green eyes. ‘This guy has made advances towards Iruka-sensei since I woke in the hotel room a few days ago; now he is saying that relationships with a man are the same. “You say that but you have made advances toward Iruka-sensei and then just admitted you are in a relationship with another person.” Naruto turned his gaze away not wanting to show the respect he lost for this man.

Iruka grinned widely, glad Naruto had picked up on that point; he decided to give his own criticism when Kimimaro spoke first.

“I am not a good person to have in a relationship.” He gazed at Naruto’s profile noting the disappointment. “This is not something I should explain to you, but since I created such a negative impression I feel I need to clarify my position.” He sat on the grassy edge with Naruto, also gazing across the stream. “Well, I said the relationships are the same, but either can have lousy participants. The level of love and respect by either person varies based on their commitment to have the relationship work.” He gazed at the blonde ninja again wondering if he may understand his point. “I am a selfish man. I enjoy special treatment, with a certain level of importance in my relationship as matter of fact; I want to be the star. Kuni-te cares more for his goals and objectives than his personal relationship; which means he does not desire nor can he provide me the time required to have a lasting relationship.” He fell silent gazing at Naruto with a slight smile.

Naruto looked into the pale green eyes with understanding. “In other words you are going to Konoha to break up with him.”

“Yes.” He watched with an amused smile as Naruto gaze fell to the water in front of him. ‘He’s upset by that.’ “Sometimes no matter how much you care for a person, if they cannot or will not return your feelings you need to let go and move on to someone who is willing to share those emotions.” Naruto lifted his gaze as if something clicked in place behind the bright blue eyes. “I will add that I do like to be treated special.” Raising his voice slightly, obviously directing it at Iruka. “I also treat my partner with the same level of respect and admiration I would want for myself.” He peeked over his shoulder, smirked then dropped his gaze to Naruto.

Twitching and fuming at Kimimaro, for once again using the opportunity to flirt at him Iruka gritted his teeth.

Naruto stood, “Iruka-sensei please forgive me for encouraging his behavior; I thought it was funny. Kimimaro-san Iruka-sensei is not interested in you when we get to Konoha you may meet some fine people let’s go.” He started toward the trail.

Kimimaro stood looking at the brown hair ninja who just got to his feet lifting his backpack up. “Let me help you with that.” He reached one hand in the strap; reflectively Iruka pulled it away, but did not tighten his grip fast enough before the bag lifted out of his hand. “I am very strong; I will carry it for you.” He smiled at the brown eyes.

Face flushed at the impossibility of the man he clenched his teeth and hissed. “Please do not make any further advances toward me; like Naruto said I am not interested in you in the least!” He considered the problems, it will cause with Kakashi when he got back to the Hidden Leaf.

Unfortunately, Kimimaro saw this as only another obstacle to over come as he gazed dreamily at the Konoha teacher. “You have the most adorable scar on your nose; can you tell me how you obtained it?”

The small sensei exploded “TELL YOU! YOU!” His face a mush of rage a blue vein pulsed dangerously down the center of his forehead. “If you don’t stop, I will knock you on your ass and leave you here to find your own way home!” Iruka’s voice echoed around the forest sending birds in nearby trees to flight.

Kimimaro cringed back, raising both palms in a sign of surrender. “Our companion is getting away from us.” He smiled shiftily as he shot his eyes in Naruto’s direction.

Iruka did not wait he stomped off after Naruto, fuming with a twitching eye.


Whom I admire….

Shino stood in front of the Fifth Hokage desk as her eyes slowly reviewed the report of the mission. He wondered it the Kikai had located Naruto his next destination. The report included information on the two rogue ninja he eliminated although the knives he obtained he omitted. Kiba and Hinata were still not getting along so he sent them both home informing the Fifth they were too exhausted to attend. She lowered the scroll leaning back in her chair.

“Well you have managed another successful mission with this you're number of B rank missions is one hundred and twenty-seven. I believe a more challenging task should be assigned.” She lounged in the chair allowing it to rock slowly deciding the best way to proceed. “There is some advice I would like to offer first before we discuss your teams’ next mission.”

Shino cringed inwardly; ‘I should have went to Naruto before coming to this bossy lady.’ “Yes Hokage-sama.” Devoting his full attention to the Fifth.

“Well, this next mission will show how much you have grown as a leader; because I will be assigning this group leadership to you. My advice is, do not allow yourself to be lead by the nose by others seeking to control your path. In other words;” she gazed intently at him, “do nothing to interfere or harm Uchiha Sasuke. He is the last of his Clan, he a valuable member of the Hidden Leaf and my responsibility.” She gave him a simpering sweet smile.

He looked at her as if she were a picture that only mildly interested him. “Thank you for the advice, but I do not need it; I intend to kill Uchiha Sasuke if he approaches me as an enemy or in the Chuunin Selection Examination which ever comes first.”

She scowled. “There is no guarantee he will match up against you in the Chuunin Exam; if you get that far.”

“You and I both know that I will. As for matching up against the Uchiha that will be ironic don’t you think; we will see.” He stared at her passively.

“Hugh,” She rolled her eyes then leaning forward folding her hands under her chin she fixed him with an icy glare. ‘This brat is strange, to talk to me like that; purposely defy me; everyone should know their limitations.’ “Well we disagree, but since I make the rules and enforce them;” she added darkly “you will not harm Uchiha Sasuke in any form; nor contribute to his injury in anyway. Is that clear?”

His face remained unreadable as he returned her icy stare with his own glower. ‘The Uchiha Clan, always find allies to protect them from certain judgment.’ Shino had years of honing his hatred for the boy this threat would not deter him in least. “Yes, Hokage-sama.” He said. She eased back in her chair sighing. “However,” he continued. “I will not comply last time I check the council made the laws in Konoha and ANBU enforces them. Your position is that of a politician to show strength to other nations. Should you die you will become a martyr, a representative of your dedication to the Hidden Leaf. If your original statement about ‘not allowing others to lead me by the nose’ is worth heeding; then get your fingers off my nose.”

‘Brat!’ She thought hotly, but before she snatched him up to beat him within an inch of his life her former teammate interrupted.

“Ho Ho!” Cackled a familiar voice, from Tsunade’s office window. “You must got some balls to talk to her like that Gaki!” He continued to chuckle as he gazed at Shino with a mixture of pride and admiration.

Shino turned his gaze to the big white haired man sitting in the window; he had not detected his presence at all, he frown finding the fact annoying.

“Jiraiya!” the Hokage shouted. “What do you want? As you can see I’m busy.” Her scowl fixed on the kid in front of her.

The big man just chuckled more as he eyed his object of desire fondly in turn.

“Jiraiya right?” The boy addressed him. “Although I am flattered by your comment you must apologize for using vulgar language in the presence of my Hokage.” Kikai began to swarm immediately.

Both the Sannin eyed him in disbelief as the air began to vibrate with his intent. “Wow.” Jiraiya said still lounging comfortably in the window he chuckled again. “Your uncle said you had a nasty temper, but I never would have guessed it was this bad.” He glanced over at Tsunade whose eyes were slightly widen by the sudden shift from disobedient brat, to knight in shining armor; with the same look as if he were bored.

There was a firm knock. “Come in!” She shouted, the air getting uncomfortable as Shino continued to look at the Hermit like the apology better be within the next five minutes.

Kakashi froze at the sight in front of him casually lifting the headband from his Sharringan eye. “What did I walk into?”

He received the Hokage glance Jiraiya’s chuckle and Shino who always ignored him, had a six-foot wall of Kikai poised behind him facing the white hair Sannin.

“Well, I understand how you feel gaki.” The hermit said; “Tsunade, I apologize for my vulgar remark.” He lifted his eyes to the Aburame kid. “Shino right?” he only received a nod in response. “Well, I’m a harsh man so get use to it; you’ll live longer.” He added darkly, the jovial look gone from his face.

“Who says I want to? Besides even if you could kill me quickly, which I doubt;” he raised his hands to summon the Kikai to return faster; “I will certainly make it a painful event in return.” He wanted to leave seeing Kakashi confirmed Naruto is in the Leaf. He understood with the right amount of rudeness maybe; they would get rid of him faster.

“That is some boast for you to say to one of the legendary Sannin.” Kakashi interrupted hoping the boy would attack Jiraiya just so he could enjoy watching the brat knocked down to earth the kid is too full of himself.

Shino turned his face to the copy ninja, feeling anger stir in him again; “You are a slow learner.”

Jiraiya chuckled; Tsunade put her hand to her head sighing in disbelief the boys temper flared again.

Kakashi raised his eyebrows at the boy; both still revealed. “No I am a genius, would you like a demonstration?” He had enough of the brat; it was time to teach him a lesson.

Tsunade grinned and snickered despite herself; she did not appreciate the kid calling her a politician.

“Kah, kah, kah!” Jiraiya laughed loudly apparently unable to control his amusement any longer.

Shino kept his glare at Kakashi who also look thoroughly amused winking his eyes as if to taunt him to fight.

“Well the definition of genius must have changed.” His voice, in contrast to the volume of the adults, lowered. “I know you just want to learn. Sorry Copy, any of my fighting techniques, so you can teach them to that bastard, Uchiha.” The laughter ceased instantly all eyes on the dark shades.

“I am glad you are serious now.” Shino said his eyes fixed on the Jonin. “If I were to fight you I would kill you and that would be a waste for the Hidden Leaf. If I just face you as a challenge, you would undoubtedly learn some interesting things to prepare the Uchiha for my wrath. So, let’s just keep it a mystery, shall we?” He turned his back on Kakashi, to look at the Fifth. “Is there anything else you need Hokage-sama I do have several other matters.”

She glared at him with distaste she had never gotten this much insubordination from anyone beside Naruto. “Just remember what I told you about Sasuke, I would not want to have you detained by ANBU.” She nodded, “I will send for you when the details of your next mission are ready. You may go.” She watched him turn and leave walking past Kakashi without a hint of acknowledgement.

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Foxy Thanks For the links, I am running on empty now sorry for the late uploads, but another chapter to follow since I made you guys wait so long. XD xD This is the really fun part, gets twisty so pay attention...
Naru is with Kimi, Sasu is with Kakashi this is where the fun begins...