Disclaimer: I don’t own Naruto and I make no profit from this story.
AN: I wanted to start off by apologizing for my tardiness. I forgot to mention in the last chapter that I would be late with getting this one out. I knew there were problems with this chapter when I went to edit it and I found it hard to work around.
So, on another note: I weathered Sandy just fine and only suffered about an hour of no electricity. There was no flooding in the area, but there were downed trees and power lines in other parts of the city. That’s what you get with 50+mph winds.
To MisatosPenPen: Sorry, I’m still harping on the cell phone tower. I’ll have to make a note of pointing that out in the chapter about it taking a day. It would make it seem more authentic then. I hope the speech tags in the last chapter were enough to follow who was speaking and since you didn’t mention anything about being confused, I’m assuming they were fine. :D
Maybe Madara should have taken a picture of Sasuke; it certainly wouldn’t have hurt his chances. But then, Naruto trusts his word so easily without doubt.
And, yes, let’s hope the plan works. We shall see.
To Angel_Davis: Thank you. I debated whether I should cut that scene with Tsunade out or not. Now I’m glad I didn’t.
Chapter Eighteen
June 21st
I arrived at the conclusion, due to constant snickering, that the two men standing sentinel by the front door found my current predicament amusing. No matter how much I struggled I couldn’t break Madara’s hold on me, trapped against his chest. I growled in annoyance and struggled in his hold, but for an older guy he certainly was stronger than I was and held me steadfast; to the other two’s amusement.
With the way they looked they were laughing at me? The one was lean with short platinum-blonde hair, his shirt opened to bare chest. The other’s face was half hidden, but from what I could see of him, stitches riddled his body…or where they tattoo. I really hope they were tattoos.
I wasn’t amused when Madara chuckled and tangled his hand into my hair, running his rough fingers through the clean strands. I gave a deep grunt and pushed against his arm, my face heating up with the exertion, my cheeks puffed out as I held my breath. But his arm wouldn’t budge and I exhaled going limp with exhaustion. But still his hand continued to pet me and it was starting to give me the creeps. I wanted it to stop. Enough was enough!
“Will you cut it out? I am not a dog!” I snapped at the end of my rope.
“Why?” He asked. “I enjoy the texture beneath my fingers; you have such silky hair, Naruto. Just like your father.”
“How nice.” I grumbled. At one time I would have appreciated the comparison to my Dad, but coming from this creep, it just disturbed me. I didn’t want to think that way.
“Must you be this way Naruto?” He sighed, inhaling the scent from my hair. “I could give you everything you ever wanted in life you know. Just ask and I will give it to you.”
I stopped struggling, relaxing slightly in his grip. Arching a brow, I asked, “Anything?”
“Yes, anything for you, Naruto.” Madara assured me, kissing my neck. I suppressed a shudder and grimaced. This was disgusting, this guy was disgusting! Couldn’t he tell I was clearly not into him?
“Ok, this is what I want. I want Sasuke! Bring him to me; and while you’re at it I want my Mom and Dad, too.” I hissed, cringing at the pain in my heart at the mere thought of Sasuke. His pain was the freshest. “Go ahead, I’m waiting.”
Madara snarled in my ear and shoved me away. “You ask the impossible!”
“Duh, that was the point you ass! You can’t give me what I want because you are the one that took it from me!”
“Why must you try my patience like this?” He snapped and struck me across the face, hard. I stumbled to the ground, seeing white, and the last thing I saw was the beige carpet as I slipped into unconsciousness.
I woke stiff on a bed that wasn’t my own in a place that wasn’t my own and unclear how I got there. I huddled under the blankets for warmth as the early morning sun shone at my back. I wanted to lie here and never move again…And then the memories flooded back leaving me cold even to the vibrant rays of sun. I wish I could cease thinking altogether, it was better if I didn’t have to. But that was all I seemed to do; and depressing thoughts they were.
Everyone must be worried sick about me; Iruka and Kakashi, Sakura and Tsunade, Neji and Gaara; everyone. What were they doing at this moment? Were they still looking for me or did they believe I was dead by now?
As much as I wanted them to look for me it was better if they didn’t. I didn’t want the responsibility if anything happened to them because of me. They shouldn’t suffer further, not after Itachi and Sas… NO, I didn’t want to think about him! That pain would eat me alive if I allowed it. I wasn’t ready. I was being a coward. I was hurt, in heart and body.
With that thought I touched my cheek tenderly, wincing at the sharp pain just a slight touch produced. Ouch, that really hurt. But deep down, I felt like I deserved this pain. I deserved it for being so stupid; though it was a hard pill to swallow that I actually passed out. I bet there was even a bruise there, yeah it definitely bruised as I touched the tender flesh again and hissed.
“Are you finally awake, Naruto?” Madara laughed.
I shot out of the blankets and against the headboard in shock. I saw the woman, Konan, move towards me slowly and sit down at the end of my bed. She was holding another cup of water and held it out to me. I grabbed it and downed it, suddenly extremely thirsty.
“Are you hungry?” She asked softly. Her tone was caring and had a mother-like quality to it. It was a nice contrast to the harsh tone of the others and seemed oddly familiar to me.
“Yes.” I nodded, focusing on her instead of the man leering at me. Why was she being so nice to me? Was it because she was a woman? I knew they had instincts like that. I’d seen it many times with the moms, and some dads, of the young boys in my class when they came to parent-teacher conferences. But I was not a boy, but a young man. So her actions were confusing to me.
“Why don’t you join me at the table then?” She held out her hand and I reached out hesitantly. She wrapped her hand around mine and pulled me forward, leading me to the table. Her hands were warm and soft, unlike Madara’s rough and dry.
I turned back to look at Madara, afraid that he was following us, but he made no move from his usual chair. His grin was wide, staring at my retreat. I turned back to Konan, swallowing around the lump in my throat. Why was he staring at me all the time? If he took a picture it would last longer, but I didn’t want him to have a picture of me either.
I sat down and pulled a plate of steaming food towards me, digging in despite my hesitancy. They could have poisoned the food, but I was so hungry and I hadn’t eaten since yesterday with Sasuke…
I felt my stomach drop and the food turn rancid in my mouth. I forced myself to swallow and downed another glass of water. No matter how much I tried I couldn’t stop thinking about him!
“When you are done, Naruto, I have something to show you.” Madara stated, interrupting my thoughts. I forced myself to slow my eating, taking as much time as possible and delaying when I would have to be in close proximity to him. He just laughed at my obvious antics. “I’ve waited 16 years, take all the time you need.”
~REVENGE~
“We’ve begun to evacuate the civilians to other hospitals, Kakashi. Thankfully, there were no seriously injured persons, so evacuation will go smoothly and largely unnoticed. It also helps that it is a smaller hospital with fewer beds; only six floors. When everything is in order I will inform Chief Tsunade and she will make the announcement.” Shikamaru stated. Kakashi nodded ready to end it and bring Naruto home.
He itched to call Iruka one last time and reassure him, but he was dealing with Sasuke, who wouldn’t rest until Naruto was back. The Uchiha was turning into more trouble than he was worth, but…Kakashi paused realizing that if it was Iruka he would feel the same thing; unhappy and unable to rest until he knew, one way or the other.
~REVENGE~
My fork barely clattered against the porcelain plate as I finished. Despite my full stomach I still felt empty. I bent my head to hide the fact that I was glaring at my plate. It wasn’t the poor things fault, but it made me feel better to blame something that couldn’t hurt me back. Oblivious to my glare match with an inanimate object, Konan grabbed the plate and exited the room. She gave a backward glance, worried, before the door closed behind her.
Feeling I delayed as long as possible I pushed away from the table and walked to where Madara was sitting. I shuddered at the strange look he was casting me and turned away. He never said I had to look at him.
“What?” I demanded.
“What a temper.” The guard with the short platinum blonde hair muttered, laughing and jabbing the other guy in the ribs.
He turned to look at his partner and snapped, “Do you want to die, Hidan!”
“Aww, Kakuzu,” Hidan replied, feigning mock hurt. “You wouldn’t do that to me!”
“I would.” Kakuzu replied. His tone was cold and without remorse. I believed his words even if this Hidan didn’t.
“I want to see you try…”
“Leave!” Madara ordered. Hidan and Kakuzu snickered, but retreated as ordered. They opened the door and exited; giving us privacy. I stared at their retreating backs and bit my lip against the thought that we were the only ones left in the room.
Madara smirked and stood up, forcing me to take a hesitant step back. “Over there,” He motioned towards the window with his chin. “Look out and tell me what you see?”
I turned to look at the wall of window. Sun was streaming in and illuminated the carpet with wide squares of bright light. I stepped forward and peered out on the street below with mild curiosity. It was busy with morning traffic, but not as busy as it would have been two hours ago with the rush to work. I wasn’t sure what I was looking at though; maybe the Konoha Garden Tower across the street? But what was so special about that?
“It is down and to your right, Naruto. Tell me if you recognize it?” I looked off to the right and down at the small building below. It was old, red, colonial styled…
I sank to the floor when my knees gave out under my dead weight. My forehead touched against the glass as I stared on in disbelief. He was here, looking down on Granny Tsunade all this time! He was hiding in plain sight?
I felt his body press against me from behind. I instantly panicked. I pushed against the glass and the floor trying to push him away from me, but he wouldn’t budge. I felt his breath against my neck and I squeezed my eyes shut in horror. He was too close! He was too close!
“Let me go!” I growled.
I struggled to break free of his grasp as memories rose to the surface from last time with Kabuto. I pushed against the glass again, forcing myself against his chest, and trying to knock him off-balance. “Let me go!” I screamed.
Terror overwhelmed my senses causing my heart to flutter like mad. My body was thrust against the glass, hitting it with a thud and knocking the wind out of me. He inhaled, sniffing me and sighing with contentment. He kissed the junction of my neck and shoulder and I gasped, barely suppressing a disgusted shudder.
“Please?” I begged, pounding against the window in despair.
He ignored my plea and instead bit into my neck, his tongue flicking out to lick at the red blotch. Bile rose in the back of my throat and I gagged on the acidic taste burning my esophagus, making me choke and cough. He marked me! Only Sasuke could do that!
I tried once again to push him off with, but I was trapped. I scratched and pounded at the glass in panic my heart jumping in my throat and thumping wildly. This couldn’t be happening; not again! Please, not again!
I bit down on my lip, drawing blood as his arm wrapped around my waist coming too close to my crotch for comfort. If there was any hope of escape before there was no chance now. But I wasn’t going to lie around and take it. I scratched at the arm gripping me with an iron will and actually managed to draw blood, but his grasp didn’t let up. No matter what I did, he wasn’t budging!
I dug my fingers into the carpet as I squirmed to get away, trying to stop this from happening. His ragged breathing was pounding against my ear and I could feel his heart beat against my back, but what froze me on the spot was the arousal I felt hitting my backside. NO!
I forced myself on my feet in a tight crouch and tried to use the glass as leverage, pushing against it with my hands while kicking off the ground - but he was rock solid. Madara chuckled and slid his hand down my pants.
I felt his cold hand grip around my length tightly and stroke. I shuddered at the feeling and closed my eyes, grunting in shame. His other arm slid up my shirt and fondled my nipples, pinching them. The sensation caused my back to arch and a groan of pleasure to pass my lips. I felt the stinging tears of humiliation slide down my cheeks and a small whimper escape my lips. I shouldn’t enjoy this feeling. It was sick! I didn’t want it!
“Stop!” I whimpered, but he didn’t listen. I was slowly becoming hard in his grasp as he continued to stroke me forcefully and I moaned at a particularly pleasurable jerk.
“You like that don’t you?” He asked, twisting my left nipple and licking the shell of my ear.
“Hmph!” I choked.
“You like being touched here.” And to prove his point he jerked me harder and moved down to fondle my sac. I shivered at the pleasure trying to swallow against the mounting disgust I felt. He smirked into my ear and kissed down my neck, to my shoulder, and down my back.
This wasn’t like the time with Sasuke in the shower. I could ignore my arousal as long as I wasn’t touched there and Sasuke didn’t touch me. I choked back a sob as he stroked me to completion. I released into his awaiting hand, twitching from my unwanted high.
“Don’t tell me, Naruto, that you didn’t enjoy that?” He chuckled releasing me from his grasp.
“I hate you!” I whispered vehemently, refusing to look at him. I could feel him towering overhead and when he brushed the back of his hand against my flushed cheek, I flinched and turned to glare at him. He laughed and brought his fingers to his lips, his tongue flicking out and swiping at his soiled hand. I swallowed in disgust.
He bent in to stare me in the face, his tongue flicking out to lick his lips. His attention focused too intently on my own. There was absolutely no way I was going to let him kiss me after he just licked his nasty hands! I turned away so I wouldn’t have to look at him.
“One day maybe you won’t.” He whispered huskily.
“When hell freezes over!” I hissed. “I can’t wait for the day you die so I can dance on your grave in joy.”
Madara growled and grabbed my hair, forcing my face up to look on him fully. Rage was evident in every contour of his visage, but I was beyond being scared. I had no time for it. He wanted me and now he had me, but I wasn’t going to roll over and play by his rules. I was going to fight tooth and nail against him every step of the way. I was going to make him regret ever crossing me!
“Your filthy mother is shining through again. I will need to train you properly so you don’t misbehave again. Do not make me punish you, Naruto.” He hissed in my ear.
Anger coursed through me as I tried to pull out of his grasp. I was a person, damn it, not a dog to be trained! “Go to hell, you bastard!” I snarled.
“You leave me no choice then; but remember Naruto, you asked for this.” His grip tightened painfully around my wrist and he jerked me closer to him. I grimaced at the pain trying to pull back once more, but to no avail. He twisted at my wrist painfully and I felt something snap from the pressure. I bit my lip as agony coursed through my arm. It was nauseating, causing me to double over as the pain shot up my arm. My head found purchase leaning against his shoulder and my breathing came out in ragged spurts. I whipped my head away when I realized that I was using him for support and instead; leaned back against the glass window, cradling my bruised and broken wrist to my chest and gasping. He broke my arm!
“Why do you force me like this Naruto? If you would just listen to me then this wouldn’t have happened.” He sighed. “Now, let’s finish what we started.”
“Wha…?” I asked through the haze of pain.
“Come now, Naruto. It isn’t respectable to leave your lover hanging.” He chuckled.
“You are not my lover!” I growled.
“We shall see.” He smirked and dropped his pants in front of me. Realizing what he wanted, I tried to get up and run. I didn’t get far when he grabbed my hair and slammed me against the window. I cried out in pain from my broken arm and felt bile rise in my throat again as I turned my head away from him. He reached his hand under my chin and turned my head to look at him. I gulped as the tears renewed.
“No.” I whispered.
“No, is not acceptable, Naruto.” He growled. He took a step forward and rubbed his dick against my lips. Bile burned in my throat and I clamped down, refusing him entrance. “Open, Naruto. Do not make me force you!” He hissed.
I shook my head, refusing him again. I gasped as strands of hair were tugged loose from my scalp. In that moment I was violated, his dick thrusting inside. I gagged around the flesh, trying to push away; but the hand wrapped in my locks held me steadfast. I felt like I was being suffocated to death as he raped my mouth, thrusting as far in as he could go. I grimaced at the salty taste assaulting my taste-buds, making me gag again. There was no relief as his thrusts became erratic and he groaned in pleasure. He grabbed my chin and released into my mouth. I tried to push away, to spit it out; but his grip remained and I was forced to swallow it all.
He let go, and I sagged against the glass window. It didn’t last long though; I leaned to the side and emptied my stomach on the floor. I dry heaved as everything in my stomach was already spilled and gasped for breath. My abdominal muscles continued to clench painfully, trying to purge what wasn’t there anymore. I couldn’t get the awful taste out of my mouth!
“How disappointing, Naruto. We will have to work on that in the future.” I couldn’t muster the energy to glare at him. He wasn’t worth my energy anymore. “Are you done defying me?”
Again, I refused to answer him. I ached too much. “Good boy. Now, I want you to go sit at the table, I have some urgent matters to attend too; but when I come back we can resume.”
My stomach dropped and I turned to stare at him. This wasn’t over yet? The look on his face gave me no other choice but to comply; not after he broke my wrist and violated me so easily.
I stood up and made my way to the table on shaky legs, where I sat in silence. Konan re-entered the room after Madara exited and walked over to me swiftly. She sat down in the chair next to me without a word. I couldn’t bring myself to care anymore. I wanted nothing more than to slip away into nothingness and be embraced by its ever-lasting darkness. I didn’t want to feel or see or touch. I didn’t want anything anymore. I didn’t want to feel pain anymore. I was unworthy of everything and everyone. Sasuke had deserved better than I; maybe then he would still be alive.
With that thought I allowed myself to slip into the dark abyss that was my only friend. I tuned everything out, I barely saw what was in front of me; I didn’t care anymore. I just sat and waited for Madara to return; wishing that he wouldn’t.
~REVENGE~
“Everything’s in order, Chief.” Shikamaru replied.
“Good, let’s get this done.” Tsunade nodded and walked out in front of the press gathered outside the Council’s Chamber. She began.
It was short, sweet, and to the point. Tsunade revealed every last detail she could about the murders and dragged the Council’s name through the mud in the process. She named Madara as their prime suspect unfazed by the camera’s frenzied flashes and the journalists demanding questions, cutting other journalists off mid-sentence. Without another word Tsunade stepped away from the crowd; waiting until she was out of the public eye to smile devilishly. “I think that went well.” She muttered to Shikamaru.
“They’re demanding the Council make an appearance now.” Shikamaru replied, peeking out on the crowd of reporters. “Thank you for sparing my father and Daimyô.” He whispered.
“Of course, I wouldn’t allow them to take the fall for this, considering they were the only Councilmen to support us.”
“Do you think this will work?” Itachi asked.
Tsunade offered a curt nod before making her way towards the Gaea Hospital. “Yes, I think this will work just fine. But I don’t approve of you going…”
“You know why I want to do this. It is not debatable.” Itachi replied, following behind her brisk pace.
“Just watch your back Itachi. Kisame may try to finish the job.” The Chief warned.
“I am looking forward to it, actually.” Itachi replied darkly.
~REVENGE~
I barely noticed what was happening around me as Konan set my arm and bandaged it to prevent further injury and promote healing. An ice pack was applied and my arm strung in a sling. But I didn’t really care anymore. I was here less than a day and I already felt myself breaking. It was terrifying thought. Was this what I had to look forward too? Being pushed down and used to satisfy a fantasy? How could I possibly survive that way? And if I fought back…
“You’re being remarkably quiet kid.” Kisame joked. I refused to acknowledge him. I wasn’t going to play their stupid games. They weren’t worth it. “Oh, don’t tell me you’re already broken? Damn, I had you pegged for a day at least.”
Still I refused to answer; they didn’t need to know how close to the brink I was. And I didn’t trust myself to speak at the moment. I still felt nauseous and even though the pain was considerably less, it was still painful.
“Leave him be!” Konan snapped. My eyes widened slightly and I looked up to stare at her; was she really defending me?
“Come on Konan.” Kisame smirked. “He isn’t saying a word; that is what I would define as being broke.”
“You’re wrong…” I whispered suddenly, shocking myself. Where did this boost of confidence come from?
“Oh, so you still have a voice then?” Madara replied.
Just the sound of his voice sent shivers through my body. My stomach clenched and churned, threatening to rise again without my permission. Even though I couldn’t stand the sight of him, I still turned to glare at him.
Konan paused in gathering her supplies, eyeing Madara closely. He smiled and motioned her away. Once she was out of the room, Madara continued. “I like a good challenge, Naruto.”
“I told you, I will not break.” I whispered, willing the words true. But in the back of my mind, where the rebellious part of me lived, I had to ask myself ‘how much longer could I hold out before I crumbled?’
“Then I will have to work harder!” Madara sneered and grabbed ahold of me.
My heart sank as he hauled me from my chair and towards a door to the right; right into another room of the suite. It looked identical to the one we just left, except that the door to the hallway was dead-bolted from the outside.
I was shoved back on the bed, forced to watch as the door snapped shut behind Madara. I stared in shock at the wooden door. There was also a dead-bolt there showing only the keyhole. It was a small, bare prison with only one small window and a bed. I had a sinking feeling this is where I’d be kept and used from now on.
“How do you like the room, Naruto?” Madara asked.
“You call this a room?” I growled.
He laughed, taking delight in my torture. “Yes, this belongs to you.”
“I don’t want it.” I snapped back, even before he finished his sentence.
Madara stepped closer to the bed, his knee hitting the edge. I inched away from him. “All you have to do is listen to what I say and it won’t be your room for long.”
“And then what? Am I to share your bed?” I spat. “I refuse. I will never want you and I will never willingly give myself to you!”
“You’re stubborn and unbelievably stupid.” Madara repeated. I was beginning to resent being compared to my father, because as much as I resembled him and shared some personality traits with him; I wasn’t him! My name was not Minato! I was Naruto! Naruto Uzumaki Namikaze!
“I am Naruto! Naruto! I am not my father!”
“No, you’re not.” Madara sneered. “You share part of that whore…!”
“Stop calling my mother a whore!”
Madara paused and gave me the nastiest look I had ever seen. It was frightening and I shook in fear. “She was a whore, Naruto. Trash picked up on the side of the road by your caring father and treated like she was a lost treasure! Before he knew it he’d fallen under her spell, he fooled himself into believing she loved him, but a whore is incapable of loving anyone but themselves! Now, I am willing to overlook the fact that she is your mother and that you share DNA with her; as long as you behave and do as I say!”
He advanced on me, crawling on the bed and over top of me as I silently shook my head in denial. My thigh muscles tensed and closed, trying to block him with sheer will power alone. He shoved my legs apart with impossible strength and nestled between my thighs. I could feel the heat from that area of his body hitting against mine. I trembled and tried to turn away from him, but his hand wrapped around my neck and squeezed slightly, driving home to me that I was not in control and at his mercy. He could and would do what he liked to me regardless of whether I wanted it or not.
I froze, willing myself to shut down. This was going to happen? This was going to happen!
“Look at me, Naruto.” He ordered. I slowly turned back to look at him, pleading with him.
“Please don’t.” I begged. “I don’t want this.”
Madara ignored my words, his voice low and sickening. “Just relax; it only hurts for a moment. Just lie back and let me give you immense pleasure.”
I shut my eyes tightly and grit my teeth as he fumbled with my jeans, dragging them from my body too quickly. The urge to break down and cry was strong, but what purpose would that serve? He wouldn’t stop just because of tears. I resigned myself to the fact that this was going to happen…
My eyes snapped open when a knock resounded through the room. Madara growled, but choose to ignore it as he started on my boxers. I stared at the heavy oak door over his shoulder wishing for a miracle and I wasn’t disappointed. There was another series of knocks, more urgent this time. Madara snarled and slid away from me, wrenching the door open with a snarl. “This had better be damn important to interrupt me!”
The two guys from earlier entered looking distinctly worried.
“What is it?” Madara demanded, impatient.
“The news…” Hidan started.
“You interrupted me for the news? Get out!”
“You should see this…” Hidan tried again.
“I don’t care! Get out!” He breathed dangerously.
“Chief Tsunade made a public statement; it would be in your best interest to watch it.” Kakuzu muttered. I stiffened. Did I just hear him correctly? Granny Tsunade made a statement? What did she say? Was she looking for me? I felt hope blossom in my chest. Was she close to finding me?
“What she has to say is of no importance to me.” He sneered, turning back to me and making his way on to the bed.
“She named you her number one suspect, but that isn’t all…” Hidan started again.
“And how did she find out about me?” He growled in annoyance, stood up and made his way back into the other room; presumably to see what Granny Tsunade revealed. I felt my heart race. Did Gaara and Neji tell Granny Tsunade what I found? They had to; it was the only way they could have found out, right?
I sat up on the bed and pulled my jeans back on, grimacing at the feel of them. They were soiled from earlier and didn’t feel comfortable. I began to pace the room, feeling nervous.
Ten minutes later Madara reappeared; anger rolling off him in waves. His look was menacing, his grip bruising, as he grabbed my shirt and hauled me from the room. Stepping back into the room Konan eyed me closely, her appearance turning pale. She reached out in fear, but one look from Madara had her cowering.
We re-emerged in the hallway, advancing towards the elevator and descending to the parking garage. I was shoved into the back seat with a “SIT” from Madara and flanked by Konan and Kisame. I bit back a painful cry as I bumped my broken wrist. Konan nudged me ever-so slightly and I offered her the barest of nods, my eyes traveling over Kisame. He was preoccupied in his own thoughts to take notice of the exchange. Kakuzu dropped into the driver’s seat without a hint of Hidan in sight; until I heard a motorcycle purr to life. What was going on?
~REVENGE~
“Every civilian was evacuated and everyone is in position.”
“Roll call.” Tsunade ordered with a slight smirk. Shikamaru rolled his eyes and crackled to life over the walkies, requesting confirmation.
“We’re here Tsunade.” Kakashi drawled, reporting in for Kiba.
“Lee and Sakura youthfully reporting; we’re in position!”
“We’re here.” Temari replied, indicating she and Sai were in position.
“Tenten and I are in position.” Shino answered back.
“Hn…”
“What was that?” Kiba crackled.
“That was Itachi’s monosyllabic response.” Sakura giggled.
“Hn.”
“Itachi report?” Tsunade demanded.
“...”
“Itachi.”
“… …”
“Itachi!”
“… … …”
“Uchiha, answer me or I will send your ass back to the hospital with your punk brother!”
“Here!” Itachi drawled sounding displeased when his voice crackled over the radio.
Tsunade laughed, genuinely pleased. Threatening people always made her ridiculously happy. Taking command of her emotions and making her voice as flat as Itachi’s, she asked, “What about that blonde of yours?”
Without missing a beat, Itachi responded, “He is around and will only get involved if necessary.”
“Now we wait.” Tsunade growled, flicking the safety off her gun.
~REVENGE~
Hidan led us down the highway at high speeds, weaving in and out of traffic with reckless abandon. The scenery flashed by my eyes in multicolored blurs as we wound our way through the city streets at midday. I didn’t know where we were going and I wished now that I’d put up more of a fight. Maybe he was going to kill me after all?
“Stop here.” Madara ordered. Kakuzu pulled over to the side of the road and cut the ignition without a word. “Get out.”
Kakuzu tugged the key from the ignition. Four doors opened simultaneously and before anyone could reach in and haul me out, I scrambled to follow Konan. Madara pinned me with an aggressive stare. I took a step back, bumping into Konan whose hands rose to grip my shoulders. I paused wondering, again, why her embrace felt familiar.
“Inside.” Madara commanded.
Looking around I noticed a small store-front building, the windows clouded over with aged grit and dust. It looked abandoned and sure enough, when we entered, the room was bare of furniture besides two chairs and a few rotting wooden crates. I was forced into one, Kisame stepping behind me, while Madara took the other.
I heard the roar of the motorcycle engine die and Hidan emerge through the doorway seconds later. He leaned against the closed door, his arms crossed and his eyes closed. I shivered and turned to look behind me. I flinched at the retched mask Kisame wore. He was angry, murderous angry. I squirmed in my seat, shifting closer to Konan who dragged one of the crates closer. Yes, I definitely felt more comfortable around her.
Madara sat silent for two hours, deep in concentration. I wasn’t complaining if this was the alternative to losing my virginity to a deranged psychopath who confused me for my Dad!
“It is obviously a trap,” Madara finally spoke. “So we must go ahead with caution. We will enter as the sun goes down.” He replied.
I was confused. What was a trap? And what was going to happen at sunset? That was hours away! I bit my lip and stared at the ground, digging my bare toe into a rotted hole in the floor. The hole gave way under the pressure, disintegrating into chips and fine dust. He couldn’t be contemplating murdering again; could he?
“We will enter through different locations so we do not draw unwanted attention. Our targets should be somewhere between the fourth and sixth floors. Be ready for an ambush; be ready for our targets not to even be there.”
So he was going to murder again! But who? And what was this about an ambush. Didn’t he have what he wanted now? Or was this because of Granny Tsunade and her public statement? There was no way that she knew I was still alive or did she suspect something was amiss when my body didn’t show up? Was he going after her now!
My head shot up and I went to open my mouth, but Konan silenced me with a silent nod. I grit my teeth and leaned back in the chair, sulking. I couldn’t let him murder another person, especially if it was Granny Tsunade. I had the power to stop that…
I felt eyes on me and saw Madara staring at me intently. His obsidian eyes were pitch black and displayed something dangerous and almost feral inside. My stomach clenched with fear. That look clearly stated that I would be hurt severely if I interfered.
I turned to stare out the window, watching the small coffee shop with detached interest. The patrons were sipping away at their fancy lattes without a care in the world, completely unaware of the danger right across the street from them. It was horrifying to think about…
The heat began to get to me in the small, grimy room and I dozed off a short time later. The sun was just setting when the car engine roared to life. I jerked awake and blinked bleary eyes around the room. Madara, Kisame, and Kakuzu were stirring, heading to the door. They were gone moments later, leaving me behind with Konan and Hidan. I heard the patter of rain striking against the grimy window sending droplets racing down the glass.
~REVENGE~
I sighed and stared at the clock on the wall. It was slowing ticking towards night and still nothing. Kakashi was calling every hour on the hour to report in. As each passing hour arrived and Kakashi called I felt my heart sink. Did Madara see this for what it was; was he stalling for some strange reason, did he even see the news at all? It was already after 8:30p.m. and looking like he wouldn’t fall for the bait. And if he didn’t, where did that leave Naruto? This could be our only chance!
Gaara looked at me impassively as I turned to stare at the door, tired of watching the clock. I was restless and agitated and I wanted this over already, I wanted Naruto back. Neji sat down in a chair and flipped through a magazine, acting as if nothing was amiss. I wasn’t fooled by his nonchalance; the magazine was upside down.
Governor Sarutobi sat in the other chair focusing on the clock as well and Iruka sat curled up on the small couch staring at the floor. I wanted to say something to him, but I couldn’t utter a word. I felt like this predicament was my fault that Naruto wouldn’t be where he was, in the position that he was in, if I hadn’t left him. I tried many times today to apologize, but I could never find the right moment. And the small, caring smiles he would flash my way every so often? They only increased my sense of guilt.
“It seems to be taking a long time…” I muttered. I knew I was revealing my concern, but in light of the circumstances who could fault me. I wanted my dobe.
“It does, but they will find him, and by tomorrow morning he will be here talking to you like none of this ever happened.” Neji muttered. He shut the magazine and tossed it on the counter.
“That is very optimistic of you.” Gaara drawled. “Here, I thought you would say it was fate.”
“I don’t believe that everything’s ruled by fate anymore.”
“I find that hard to believe…” Gaara snorted.
I sighed and turned to stare at the clock again. I didn’t feel like joining in on their conversation about fate. I heard it many times when we were together in high school, so it was old news to me. I watched the seconds tick away until it finally read 9:00p.m. I waited on tenterhooks for Kakashi’s phone call, but it never came. A sense of anticipation itched along my skin. It was starting.
~REVENGE~
Kakashi stared out the window from the third floor watching the entrance like a hawk. He pulled out his phone ready to update Sasuke when he saw a man approach the hospital. They paused for only a second before strolling right inside. Kakashi crackled over the walkie informing them of the suspect person. Tsunade and Shikamaru acknowledged and went to investigate. It wasn’t long before Temari and Sai reported seeing another person enter in through the side; Tenten and Shino confirming they had another person entering through their location. ‘Three people, eh?’ Kakashi thought. ‘So he suspects a trap.’
~REVENGE~
The rain lashed against the windows with a ferocious beat, but I was thankful for the distraction. Madara was gone now for 20 minutes and my mind worked quickly to find a possible way of escape. I felt confident I could get by Konan, but Hidan was another hurdle altogether.
He was currently lounging against the door, content to ignore the two of us. I heard momentary wisps of words said too rapidly to comprehend pass his lips and wondered again if he was in prayer. He didn’t strike me as the church going type, but then you never could tell.
“What’s this about Hidan?” Konan asked, breaking the silence. “Since when do I need a guard?”
Hidan paused in his mantra and opened his eyes. “That is privileged information and you are not privileged.”
“There’s something new isn’t there? Everyone he went after is dead and he holds no further grudges, so what is it?” She hissed. “Tell me, you know I wasn’t in the room!”
“Fat chance I’ll tell you anything. So sit down and shut up before I release the wrath that is Jashin on you.”
“I care nothing for your stupid, pathetic deity, Hidan!”
“Do not insult the exalted name of Jashin, you heathen!” Hidan snapped.
Konan chuckled sourly, clucking her tongue. “No, Hidan, I’m no heathen. I hold no faith.”
“That makes you a heathen!” He squawked.
Konan laughed and turned away, placing a finger to her lips and motioning for me to stay quiet. I sat stiff as a board, watching, as she barely turned her head to look back at him. Hidan grumbled and closed his eyes again, resuming his prayers. Konan took a soft step toward Hidan, cautious not to make a sound. When she was within reach and he showed no signs of being aware of her proximity, Konan grabbed at his neck and squeezed tightly. He coughed and spluttered clawing at her hands in panic.
“Run, Naruto, RUN!!” She yelled.
I didn’t stick around and burst through the front door, racing down the rain slicked street as fast as I could run. Shots rang out behind me, but I couldn’t stop to look, I had to get as far away as possible! I ran without thought of where I was going. I ran until I couldn’t breathe and still it didn’t slow me down; because to slow down meant recapture.
~REVENGE~
Madara strode into the hospital taking notice of the abandoned front desk and waiting room. He didn’t pause as his suspicions were confirmed; he expected an ambush and they didn’t disappoint. Ahead of him stood the elevators, the metal doors reflecting the florescent overhead lighting and making the hallway look brighter. He winced internally, cursing the light.
His finger pressed the up button waiting for the tell-tale ding and the doors to retract. He reached in hitting the buttons for every floor, treating the second elevator in the same way. He watched the doors close and made his way to the emergency stairwell satisfied with his childish distraction tactic.
Pacing himself to the fourth floor he exited into the empty hallway. The lights flickered momentarily before casting him in pitch darkness. Seconds later the area flooded with poor lighting from the backup generators and a dull hum.
Madara paused, staring at the figure standing at the end of the hallway, their head bowed and staring out the window. He wasn’t expecting a confrontation so soon, but his veins rushed with rising blood lust. Murder sang to him and he flexed his fingers, reaching for his gun and aiming at the unmoving figure. He stalked forward quietly, mystified why they hadn’t started at the loss of light? A shot rang out in the silence and the figure slumped to the ground with a clamor.
With an air of satisfaction, Madara advanced on the crumpled heap only to growl in frustration. He cursed himself and kicked at the clothed-skeleton damning himself for falling for their pathetic excuse of a diversion; which meant they didn’t fall for his!
“Where is my grandson, you bastard!?” Tsunade demanded and pointed her revolver at his head.
Madara turned to look at her with narrowed his eyes. This was one of the obstacles barring him from Naruto. He itched to finish her off, to get her out of the boy’s life for good. With her gone Naruto would finally be his. He would submit that much faster.
His chest rumbled with suppressed laughter, deciding to toy with her before finishing her off. “You will never see him again, Tsunade; especially if I die.”
“Let’s test that theory, eh?” She hissed and cocked the hammer. This was purely for emphasis as her Smith and Wesson didn’t have to be cocked, she could just fire at will.
“Are you willing to take that chance? Are you even sure he
wants to return to you?”
Tsunade swallowed down her quick retort and swallowed a deep breath. She couldn’t let him get in her head and fill it with lies. She couldn’t let herself believe his words. Naruto wanted to come home!
“What do you know of Naruto’s want?” She hissed.
“I know what he wants deep down, because he told me. He was quite emphatic about it, in fact.” Madara laughed.
“I don’t believe a word of what you’re saying!” Tsunade snapped swallowing her fear. What if Naruto really…NO, he wanted to come home to them! She knew he did. “Naruto wants to be with the ones he loves.”
Madara tsked and shook his head, laughing. “Don’t be so sure. Just maybe he doesn’t love you like you believe he does?”
“If you have something to say, say it!” The hand holding her gun shook. Disgusted with herself, she steadied her shaking with her other hand and ground her teeth. Naruto loved her!
“You asked for it,” Madara chuckled. “Naruto wants to stay with me. He doesn’t want to come back to you. He loves me…he even moaned it to the heavens in bed. It was quite the breathy expression.”
Tsunade felt rage consume her and a need to pull the trigger gripped her. But she couldn’t bring herself to end his life. Naruto would never sink so low as to give this monster his body. He wouldn’t tell him he loved him, not for anything in the world! But if he believed he lost Sasuke…NO! Naruto wouldn’t do it. He was playing with her emotions and using Naruto against her. “I swear if you touched him I will kill you!”
“He wanted me to touch him. He was quite eager, in fact, and so damn needy. Naruto said he was ready and wanted me to take his virginity…”
“Shut up!” Tsunade spat. It was difficult to keep her hand steady with her other hand bracing her wrist now. “SHUT UP! You’re lying!”
“Am I?” Madara mocked.
“Yes! Naruto would never tell you that. He’s in love with Sasuke!”
Madara growled at the mention of Sasuke’s name, his features morphing into disgust. “That Uchiha bastard is not worthy of Naruto’s love! Only I am!”
He struck at Tsunade’s hand, attempting to seize her gun. Tsunade fired grazing Madara on the shoulder as he wrestled for the heated metal. She held on with an iron grip, wrenching the gun from his grasp and sending it flying. With a growl of frustration she kicked at him and stood up. Taking a step back, she placed some distance between them and wiped at her bleeding lip.
“What are you going to do now?” He sneered, breathing heavily. “You have no weapon.”
“I don’t need one.” Tsunade panted while a gun cocked behind Madara.
~R~
Kisame took the east side of the hospital as planned and looked around every corner before reaching the elevators. He hit the up arrow; his eyes cast around suspiciously, and waited for the steel box to open. He hit the number five and ascended upward, stepping out when the doors opened. He was filled with anticipation and a hint of curiosity. Did the elder Uchiha really survive his bullet?
There was an overwhelming need to finish the job, but not before he had his fun. This was his second chance and his body begged for satisfaction. Madara promised he could have fun with his prey and that was what he intended to do. It would also be fun to watch the blonde-haired brat fill with the hope that his boy toy lived only to dash it. He would crumble at the second loss and submit that much faster to Madara’s will.
Kisame pulled his gun out and made slow progress down the hallway towards the elder Uchiha’s room, not surprised to see someone standing at the end, waiting for him. He stood there with his arms crossed and leaning against the wall with an air of indifference that border-lined boredom.
“Kisame.” Itachi drawled.
“Itachi.” Kisame smirked. He aimed his gun and flicked off the safety. Neither of them seemed bothered by the lack of lighting as the fluorescent bulbs flickered out. Back up lighting flooded the floor an instant later, bathing them in semidarkness, chased by the sound of gunshots.
~R~
Kakuzu walked into the west side of the hospital through the parking garage, placing a step on the sixth floor. He made his way down the corridor and stopped in front of a room, sneering at the name tag: Uchiha, Sasuke. He stepped off to the side waiting for the signal. The lights flickered overhead and extinguished. There was no movement from the room and not a sound.
He heard a muffled gunshot followed closely by another and the door flew open. He seized his chance and struck at the figure that came running from the room. They fell to the floor in an unconscious heap. Kakuzu stepped over the limp form and into the room with his gun drawn. He walked over to the bed, aiming at the lump under the sheets. He pulled the trigger with a smirk, releasing a bullet into the mound. There was a sense of satisfaction having dealt a fatal blow. His mind wandered towards money and how much Madara would pay him for finishing off the Uchiha? It was all for that blonde anyway. He could see why his boss desired the boy…
Kakuzu paused when he felt the muzzle of a gun at his neck.
~R~
The walkie-talkie dug into Kakashi’s palm, his grip was that tight. He itched to report in, but the order was to maintain radio silence. Curses flew from his mouth, not that Kiba heard any of them through his own curses. The strangest person either of them had ever laid eyes on stood in the door way to the mechanical room, blocking their path. He was tattooed from head to toe, but it applied to only one side of his body.
As soon as the lights flickered out and replaced by back-up generators, Kakashi and Kiba rushed to the basement, ignoring the sound of gun fire echoing through the stairwell. There was no mention of a fourth perpetrator so how did he get in?
“Kakashi Hatake?” He asked, advancing from the doorway.
“Hm.” Kakashi agreed, not surprised he knew his name.
“You will not interfere. If you resist than you will die.”
Kiba gagged and grabbed at his nose, choking on his words, “Gah, his breath stinks! Have you ever heard of a breath mint?”
Kakashi sniffed in the stench and felt his stomach drop. His breath smelled like fetid flesh. “Kiba, stay back.” Kakashi ordered.
Kiba didn’t hesitate and took a step back; attempting to stare the man down from behind Kakashi’s back. The perpetrator didn’t spare him a glance, his focus intent on Kakashi.
“You will not interfere.” He repeated.
“I don’t listen to criminals.” Kakashi responded.
“Have it your way.” He stated and ran towards the detectives, unarmed. Kakashi blocked the man’s punch and brought his leg up to knee him in the side. He drew back clutching his side before resuming. He blocked his blow again, forcing him backwards.
“Kiba, find the others and lend them back up! I’ll be along shortly.” Kakashi ordered as he staved off another punch. This guy was only trying to stall them.
Kiba gave a curt nod and ran off. The perpetrator charged again earning a punch to the face.
“This is fun.” He wheezed out and jumped at Kakashi. His teeth sunk into Kakashi’s shoulder and pulled; tearing a chunk of skin from his arm. The lieutenant gave a grunt of pain and shook him off.
Clutching his shoulder, Kakashi turned his face away from the gaping hole, grinding his teeth against the pain. He prepared for another onslaught, but before he could fully brace himself the man crumpled to the ground, dead. Shino was standing behind him holding a bloodied knife in his hand. Tenten ran up behind him and stared at the dead body in disbelief.
“I told you that knife would come in handy, but no you couldn’t believe me could you?” Tenten griped.
“I have a gun, why would I need a knife?” Shino countered, eyeing the knife with distaste.
“Because, you dummy, your gun just jammed and I was too far away to aim properly.” Tenten chided.
“I still see no use for them.”
“You just used one to kill a man, is that not use enough!” She demanded.
Kakashi shook his head and clutched his shoulder tighter; thinking of all the shots he would need because he was bit by a cannibal. Iruka would fuss up a storm and he may even find himself sleeping on the couch for a while.
“Do you know where the others are?” Kakashi sighed, turning to the bickering duo.
“Not a clue. You’re the first we found.” Tenten replied.
“Let’s go.” He ordered and made his way down the hall. He would start with Tsunade and Shikamaru’s last known location and go from there.
The building rumbled beneath him, plunging the floor into darkness.
~R~
Sakura pointed her gun at the man’s neck, right up against the carotid artery. Lee shuffled inside the room holding the back of his head and hissing in pain. He fixated on the bed, and the bullet hole, and shook his head sadly. “What a poor display of youthfulness.”
“Can it Lee.” Sakura ordered.
She reached around to grab her cuffs when a force from below knocked her from her feet and the lights blacked out. She stumbled and released her grip on the perpetrator who immediately tackled Lee to the ground. Sakura wobbled to her feet and pointed her gun, firing on the struggling men. A gush of blood blossomed from one of their backs.
Sakura shook with fear, her brain catching up with what she just did. A crippling fear gripped her with the realization that she could have shot Lee and she rushed to the body, turning the dying man over in her arms. She came face to face with her suspect and a gun pointed right between her eyes.
She barely had time to panic before another shot rang through the room. Water flooded from the sprinklers overhead a second later, staining their skin a murky brown. Sakura blinked water from her eyes, the gun falling from the perpetrators hand and clattering to the ground. Gasping for breath she turned to stare at the man behind her, thankful for once in her life that Kiba was there.
“You ok, Sakura?” He asked gruffly, the gun shaking in his hand.
“Y-yeah, thanks.” She replied shakily turning to stare at Lee who was digging himself out from beneath the dead body on top of him.
“Phew…” he muttered and wiped at his sweaty brow. “My dearest cherry blossom, are you unhurt? Did that man harm you in any way?”
Kiba held back a snicker as Sakura’s face flooded with heat. A blush dusted her cheeks and she averted her gaze, answering Lee, “I’m fine, thanks to you and Kiba.”
“Don’t mention it; really, don’t mention it.” Kiba muttered. “The way things are going with Uchiha he might just kill us if anything happened to his childhood friend, too.”
Lee bent down to lend Sakura a hand up. She flushed again and gained her footing. “I promise not to say a word to Sasuke about this if you don’t.”
“Deal!” Kiba responded. He stepped around the dead body, bent down to secure the gun, and walked from the room. He ignored the fact that he was soaked from head to toe and his clothes were adhering to his body uncomfortably.
Sakura side-stepped the dead man and rushed after Kiba, Lee flanking her closely.
“Where are we heading?” Lee questioned.
“We’re going to find the others.” Kiba grumbled and took the steps two at a time.
“What do you think happened?” Sakura asked, hurrying after him. “The buildings not on fire is it?”
“I hope not!” Kiba replied. That was the last thing they needed.
~R~
Kisame stared at Itachi, ignoring the glare on the Uchiha’s face. In the fluorescent lighting he could just imagine a hint of red flash in those onyx eyes. A shiver raced down his spine before his lips split in a wide grin; showing sharp, pointed teeth. “It’s too bad I have to kill you; we would have made a killer team. I could have done the killing and you could have done the cover-up.”
“Hardly…” Itachi drawled, sniffing at the implication. “I am a law-abiding citizen.”
“Really, now; then we could have been a killer team in bed with me fucking you all night long.” Kisame laughed. “That can still happen.”
“I am spoken for.”
“Oh, then it’s such a pity that I’m going to have to break their heart when I kill you.”
“I thought you had done that already.” Itachi smirked and unfolded his arms. “Really, Kisame, you are losing your touch. What assassin shoots a person and walks away before confirming their target is in actuality dead; or even shot for that matter? Not a very efficient assassin, I assure you.”
“Well, Itachi, I can assure you that I won’t make that mistake a second time.” Kisame sneered before turning and shooting at the person creeping up behind him. An explosion followed, rocking the foundation of the building and sending lights dropping from the ceilings to crash and shatter on the floor. Everything went pitch black.
“Oops.” Deidara mumbled.
“Oops? Deidara, what have you done? That was not part of the plan!” Itachi snapped.
“I didn’t mean for it to happen!” He defended. “That blue freak struck at me, yeah. It’s his fault, yeah.”
Itachi growled as he stared at the body under the rubble. The ceiling had fallen right over Kisame, killing him instantly. “Despicable.” He muttered and turned away from the corpse.
The sprinklers sprang to life and flooded the corridor with water, causing Itachi to growl. “Remind me to prosecute your ass to the fullest extent of the law, Deidara.”
“Y-yeah…?” He gulped in fear. “You would do that, Tachi?”
“Yes, Deidara, I would do that.” Itachi glowered. He threw the door open and marched down the stairs, pissed that he would need to re-wash his hair and scrub at his staining skin. Brown was not a good look on him.
Deidara paled, his movements exaggerated as he ran after Itachi. “You wouldn’t do that to me, yeah! You can’t! Don’t I keep your bed warm enough, yeah?”
“That is nothing to do with this Deidara.” Itachi replied, but he turned on the blonde anyway, brushing his soaked blonde hair out of his face. Deidara paused and bit his lip when the Uchiha’s hand wound in his limp hair and pulled. Itachi brought their faces together, smothering the other in a passionate kiss, his tongue breaking through Deidara’s lapsed defenses.
Releasing Deidara, Itachi turned around and shoved the door open, calling over his shoulder, “Coming?”
Deidara snapped out of his fugue and smacked into the door. He rubbed at his nose, grumbling at Itachi’s smirk.
~R~
“You think you have won, Tsunade.” Madara replied, ignoring the loaded gun behind him. He could deal with them in time.
“Shut up!” Tsunade snapped, interrupting him.
“But you have already lost.” He finished.
“I would keep quiet if I were you.” Shikamaru warned.
Madara broke out in a snicker. “Right, the Chief’s infamous for her unkempt temper. I’m not worried, though I fear for Naruto. How could a volatile woman raise such an innocent boy?”
“Shut up about Naruto!” Tsunade shrieked. “Tell me where he is?”
Madara laughed. “Which is it, Tsunade? Talk or shut up; you can’t have it both ways.”
Tsunade ground her teeth, “Tell me where he is!”
“You will never find him.” Madara taunted. “You have lost, Tsunade.”
Tsunade growled and cracked her knuckles, taking a step towards him. The hospital shook from the force of the detonated bomb, forcing the Chief off-balance. Madara seized his chance and struck at the man behind him. His face morphed to one of shock when he hit nothing but air. He turned his venomous glare on the young man now standing before him.
“I studied where Hayate went wrong. His mistake was getting too close to you. I won’t make that same mistake.” Shikamaru remarked, not bothered by the deluge of water from the sprinklers.
“Well, aren’t you the bright, young detective.” Madara chuckled.
“Where is Naruto?” Shikamaru asked.
“He’s probably long gone by now.” Madara sneered.
“You are absolutely right, Madara, Naruto is long gone…”
Tsunade and Madara turned to stare at the newcomer. Madara shook with rage, watching Konan point a gun right at him.
“Konan?” Tsunade whispered.
“So you finally turn on me Konan; after I gave you what you wanted!” Madara snapped.
“What I wanted was your death, Madara. I just never had the proper moment until now. Naruto is long gone and Hidan is dead. All that remains is to get rid of you. I will gladly rot away in jail for the crimes I committed if I can see those soulless eyes of yours dim out of existence.”
“How poetic, but don’t be so sure that Hidan is dead.” Madara laughed.
Konan turned just as the knife Hidan clutched in his hand impaled her. Shikamaru acted without hesitation and shot Hidan through his heart, giving Madara a chance to knock the gun from his hands.
Tsunade seized her chance and swung at Madara, hitting him in the jaw and sending him staggering backwards. With one last shot Madara was dead, a bullet through his left eye. Shikamaru scooped up his gun and placed two fingers on Madara’s pulse point, expecting the man to still be alive. He shook his head and focused on Konan. She still had a grip on the gun, her other hand clutched at her stomach, the blood flowing warm and free over her hand.
“Konan!” Tsunade yelled and grabbed the injured woman. She held Konan in her arms and sank to the floor, her hand finding Konan’s and pushing down on the wound trying to staunch the bleeding. Konan groaned and gasped for breath.
“I-I told N-Naruto to run.” Konan admitted first, gasping for air. “I’m s-sorry. I killed th-those families, T-Tsunade. I admit i-it…but not-not the Uchiha’s and M-Min…” She paused and gulped in air, her body shaking uncontrollably. “Th-the childr-ren…I couldn’t…”
“Shh.” Tsunade soothed.
“N-no…” Konan gasped. “I couldn’t h-hurt them…n-not af-after. Please forgive m-me?”
“Why?” Tsunade whispered, holding the dying woman tighter. “Why?”
“He mu-murdered Nagato! Ma-Madara…h-he…” Konan tried to finish, shaking her head and blinking slowly.
“Shh.” Tsunade cried. “Don’t worry about that now. We have to get you to the hospital.”
Konan laughed at that. It sounded weak and feeble and broke Tsunade’s heart. “We’re…i-in… hos-hospital. P-please, Tsunade…” She begged. “L-let me d-die…”
“NO!” Tsunade responded, shaking her head against the notion.
“I de-deserve this…f-for those fam-families I des-destroyed. O-only way jus-justice…served. Pl-please”
Tsunade cried and held Konan in her arms. “Why did you do it?” She repeated.
“Because…h-he mu-murdered Nagato…and went…f-f…Minato and Kush-Kushina.” She paused for breath again, her chest rising and falling rapidly. “He wanted Min-Minato and Na-Na…to…hi-himself. He’d ha-have h-hurt them bo-both…H-he never…be…satis-satisfied…j-just…wi-with Mi-Mina-to.” Konan gulped, struggling for breath.
Splashing footsteps were heard down the hall. Tsunade’s officers arrived one by one on the scene, pausing at what they saw.
“Shh, it’s ok.” Tsunade soothed, ignoring everyone but Konan. “Just hold on…”
“He-he did some-something…Nar-Naruto…co-couldn’t…s-stop i-it. Tell Na-Naruto…sor-sorry…pl-please?”
“He’ll forgive you.” Tsunade cried.
“He ran…he ran…” She gasped. “I’m sor-sorry for what… I di-did. B-but I couldn’t st-stop him…I ki-killed……fam-families.”
“Konan…”
“I-I choose th-this…” Konan wheezed out. “Please? L-let m-m-me…”
“Don’t talk that way…” Tsunade shook with grief, her eyes obstructed by rolling tears.
“L-let…g-go…” Konan gasped.
Tsunade held her to her bosom and gave a nod. Konan sighed and took her last breath, releasing her soul from its earthly bindings. Tsunade clutched her close, crying as if she was the one who died.
No one wished to speak first, to interrupt the Chiefs grieving. But someone had to, there were things to do.
“Tsunade?” Kakashi asked gently, his hand still clutching the throbbing injury. He was beginning to worry that the water would cause infection. If it did he would almost certainly be sleeping on the couch.
“It’s over.” She muttered and leaned against the wall in tiredness, still cradling the dead woman in her arms. “It’s over.”
“Not quite,” Shikamaru stated. “We still need to locate Naruto.”
AN: So, I should say that I still feel this chapter is anti-climactic. I can't seem to write action sequences very well, no matter how much I try. That's something I intend to work on as my writing progresses, if it progresses. LOL.
