A Difference in the Making

A Difference in the Making

Note: It took me forever to continue, so I tried to make this an enjoyable read. I hope I succeeded, thanks to everyone’s patience.

Disclaimer: I don’t own Naruto, just borrowing it for reading pleasure.

Chapter 2: Wonders of the World

Motoharu slowly opened his eyes to greet a throbbing pain stabbing at the back of his pupils. He stared at the blurry ceiling of what he recognized as his house. He could hear voices whispering near him, but try as he might, he could not move his head to look. He blinked back disorientation as he tried to remember why he was in so much pain. He groaned when he tried to shift his position.

The voices ceased and, just as quietly, someone’s face moved into his vision. Concern and nervousness colored intense blue eyes, contradicting the happy grin that spread across the small tanned face. Motoharu tried to lift his hand to smooth over the frown lines that appeared between his nephew’s brows, but his arms felt like lead.

“Are you okay Uncle? You were unconscious for the entire day.” The clear worry could be heard behind the soft words.

Motoharu licked his chapped lips and to his relief Naruto understood his unspoken request. Moments later he was gently raised up and a glass of water was placed upon his lips. After he had his fill, Naruto removed the glass and tried to recline him back when Motoharu shook his head.

“Help me sit up properly Naruto. I’ve had enough sleep. Now I need some answers.”

Motoharu pointedly stared at his nephew. And said nephew went about helping him recline against the back wall without meeting his eyes. Even with his attention on this particular task, Motoharu saw the anxiety and worry that ran through his nephew. He softened his tone and tried to smile as he placed his hand over Naruto’s.

“Naruto? You did very well. I underestimated how much you have learned without my guidance. I fully intended for you to pass, but not by knocking me out. You have exceeded my expectations. When I’m able, I will fulfill the last of our arrangement: the summoning jutsu. I think Lord Gatashi will see what I see.”

Naruto leaned back and stared in excitement at his uncle’s face. He felt his heart lift and his answering smile split across his face. He was tempted to hug his uncle but refrained because of his injury. He clasped his hands together before bowing in respect.

Comfortable silence fell upon them as Motoharu tried to relax against the wall and Naruto tried to prevent his own bubbling happiness from erupting.

“Naruto? Where did you learn Kage Bunshin? It

is a forbidden jutsu, only known by Konoha Ninja.”

Naruto stiffened in surprise; he did not know that particular information about the jutsu. He raised his head and met his uncle’s questioning gaze, but before he could reply someone spoke behind him. “I taught the boy that jutsu.” Motoharu turned his head to see the old priestess move towards the bed slowly. He inclined his head in respect, but he never let his eyes wander from her.

“Lady Haruka.” Naruto smiled at the old woman. He was about to move to help her sit on the other side of the bed comfortably when she waved him off. “I’m not that old, boy; I can still sit without assistance.” Her bark was loud and brass, but Naruto only smiled before he settled back down.

Haruka turned to watch the patient with amusement. “I see you are well. Good, good. Naruto took good care of you. You will not find a better caretaker then him. The boy insisted that he take responsibility for your injuries, and I fully agree. Because of that, he passed my test as well.”

Motoharu witnessed the silent exchange between his nephew and the old woman with curiosity. He saw the faint flush appear on Naruto’s cheeks; his apparent embarrassment at the surprise praise from the old priestess intrigued Motoharu. It seemed that only the old woman could acquire a rare emotion from his stoic nephew without difficulty. He knew of Naruto’s sessions with the priestess, but he never thought so much of it. He sighed in wonder. “What is your reward for him for passing your test, Lady Haruka?”

The priestess shook her head. “That is a matter between student and teacher.” She smiled fondly at Naruto who bit his lip to keep from smiling.

“Besides that, the Kage Bunshin was something I wanted to teach him. I journeyed there many years ago, and by some bizarre circumstances, I came to obtain that certain jutsu. I did not think it would come in handy, since I was a mere priestess, but I guess I was mistaken. Just a little something to rattle those Konoha monsters for what they did years ago; they would be seriously insulted to find that one of the prized forbidden jutsu was in the hands of the container of Kyuubi.” Motoharu could hear the smug harshness behind her words and chose not to reply to her statement. Naruto felt no such pretense. “Lady Haruka, you’re being mean again.” His frown was met with laughter.

“Let me have some fun boy. I’m too old for anything else.”

Motoharu decided to change the subject. He turned his gaze towards his nephew and held the boy’s blue eyes seriously. “Naruto, you have completed the training that our village could teach you. To learn more, you have to venture outside to other villages and places. After I am rested, you’ll sign the contract with Lord Gatashi and then we’ll embark.”

Naruto was speechless. His surprise was evident as he stared first at his uncle, then the priestess, to see them both looking steadily at him. He could do nothing else but nod.

…………………………………………………………………………………………

Motoharu stood patiently next to his uncle, Shigeru, while waiting for Naruto to appear. Motoharu in a rare display of curiosity was examining his Uncle’s reactions at the coming events. But Shigeru was impossibly quiet and grim. It had been a week after Naruto’s test. And Motoharu was confident that it was time for his nephew to meet their families’ summoning. Since he could remember, Naruto had always been fascinated with dragons and knowing the particular creature the head house of Uzumaki summoned motivated the young boy to train to prove himself worthy.

What Motoharu did not tell Naruto was if he could summon the dragon lord Gatashi, he would be ready to continue his training outside the confines of their village. He would journey with his nephew and teach him more about their bloodline. The world and its wildlife would be a training ground for Naruto. And while Motoharu elaborated on their families’ secrets, Naruto would learn about other villages and hopefully learn more jutsu.

He was pulled out of his musing when Naruto called him. “I’m ready uncle.” The determination he saw in the six year old face was heartening, and yet sad. Such a young boy learning to grow up too fast, it seemed that there was no justice when it came to the container of Kyuubi.

Motoharu nodded as he pulled a large scroll in front of him. He unrolled it and handed it over to Naruto. Before he let the scroll go, he caught his nephew’s eye, “Do not disappoint me Naruto. You represent not only yourself but our family.” He knew that what he said was harsh and demanding on such a child, but Naruto was special. He had total confidence in Naruto’s success.

And it seemed that Naruto thought so too. The child smiled softly at his uncle’s stern face before nodding in affirmation. He walked a ways from Motoharu and Shigeru, before gently placing the scroll on the ground. With his back turned from his family, he bit his thumb and wrote his name on the scroll on the blank space next to his uncle’s. Taking a deep breath, he closed his eyes and concentrated. He was working very hard to expand his chakra reserves, and he wasn’t going to waste any time by holding anything back. As he went through the seals his eyes flew open and narrowed when he felt his chakra moving frantically within his body.

“Kuchiyose no jutsu: Dragon lord!”

When the smoke cleared, everyone present inclined their heads in respect. Only the child who performed the summoning remained motionless in wonder.

Naruto blinked in awe when he realized that his hand was pressed against dark silver scales. He straightened and breathed a sigh of relief when he realized that he did it. He was standing upon a silver dragon’s head about seventy-five feet off the ground. Wanting to greet the dragon lord properly he leaped down next to his uncle and great uncle.

He stood in astonishment at the monstrous creature that towered over them. His whole body covered the training area, all fifty yards of it. They all watched as the majestic head moved from side to side as he stretched. His long tail moved to wrap around his hind leg and his leather wings came to rest at his sides while he finally lowered his head to meet their gazes.

All Naruto could see was the green reptilian eyes and the large gaping mouth with razor sharp teeth. Before he could say anything the gigantic head moved towards him and observed him quietly. His eyes widened in surprise when the dragon’s nostrils flared before it sniffed him. The dragon blew hot steam out as he shook his head, “Interesting.”

Motoharu and Shigeru both bowed when the large green eyes turned to them. “Shigeru… Motoharu. Is this the young Naruto you have told me about? Hmmm. He was able to summon me on the first try. But that is not enough for me.”

The dragon turned back to hold the blue gaze of the child in front of him. He tilted his head and watched the golden haired boy stand there, holding his head high and meeting his glare courageously. The dragon snorted before he narrowed his green eyes. Without warning the dragon suddenly turned his large body and his silver tail swung around to strike at Naruto. On instinct, Naruto leaped over the tail before running to keep ahead of another hit. He was still concentrating on the tail lashing at him that he almost collided with the dragon’s head when he lowered it.

Naruto came to a stop and tried not to cringe when he saw the narrowed glare and the mouth pulled back to show rows of large sharp teeth. This time he had no time to dodge when the dragon’s nostrils flared and hot streaming flames raced towards him. He held still and hissed quietly when the temperature around him rose and he bit his lip when he felt the flames sail past both his sides, harmless to him in their course. While all this happened he kept his gaze on the green reptile eyes.

Five seconds later, with blackened soil as the only evidence of the destructive flames around Naruto, the dragon reared back and let out a dominating roar that shook the ground. After the echo faded the dragon cocked his head towards Naruto. “Very brave little one. Very brave indeed.”

“Child of fire that has summoned me, do you know who I am?” The booming voice was horrific, but Naruto only nodded his head before bowing in respect.

Naruto’s voice was unwavering as he spoke clearly and calmly. “You are the lord of the dragons. Lord Gatashi.”

“You have passed your family’s tests, but to finalize our contract you must ride the heavens with me.”

Not waiting for a reply Lord Gatashi lowered his great head until it touched the ground and waited for Naruto. The boy hesitated only for a second before he leapt onto the dragon’s head and stood between the two horns that curved over and back from the dragon’s head. “Hold on.” The clear amusement was heard in the dragon voice before he took to the air and disappeared from view.

…………………………………………………..

Shigeru sighed softly as he watched his little Naruto say farewell to the villagers. Naruto was leaving them after six years of living and growing under the clan’s care. He smiled as Naruto hugged and laughed with the children and bowed in respect to his elders. It also seemed that his teachers were presenting him with gifts.

……………………………………………………

Gupo beamed down at his student. He brought forth a small black cloth. He unfolded it to present Naruto with black leather bracers that outlined metal plates with symbols of Faith engraved into each.

“Those are to protect you when you can’t always dodge those shurikens. There is always faith in places that are least expected.” Gupo smiled at Naruto’s grateful expression.

Mito bowed at him before kneeling and kissing his forehead. She chuckled when he blushed at her show of affection. Catching his gaze, she cleared her throat. “I brought these for you. Their elegance and fragile appearance remind me of you.” She presented him with two tessens. With a flick of her wrist she spread open one for his viewing; made of the lightest metal with thinned edges sharp enough to cut, it was a beautiful ebony color. She closed it again and handed both over to him. Realizing where his gaze landed, she explained the small silver symbols on the edge of each. “Strength, Naruto. There is always strength in all things still beautiful in this world; because like the elegance of these tessens, you hide power and strength in such a fragile form.”

She smiled gently at his bowed head, raised his chin up and gazed into his blue eyes. “I’m proud of you, little Naruto.” The whisper was soft and filled with love and pride for her student. She watched as he hid each of the tessens within the folds of his white haori.

To keep the tears from spilling, Naruto turned from her and was greeted by his ojiisan. Shigeru smiled down at the small tanned face. He did not wait for the child but gathered him into a hug. “No matter where you are Naruto, remember that you will always have a family here. We will miss you my boy.”

He pulled away far enough to place a silver necklace around Naruto’s neck. A small pendant blinked against the sun’s rays; upon it was an image of Gatashi. “The pendant was made from one of Gatashi-sama’s scales. Refined and molded into what you see now. It will be your connection with us.”

Naruto met those wise old eyes and silently promised never to forget his clan, to never forget his family. Shigeru nodded before stepping away. Naruto’s face lost all of its previous emotions, leaving him indifferent. He straightened his posture before bowing to his great uncle in respect and farewell.

Naruto turned to meet his uncle’s eyes. Motoharu did not speak as he moved away from the group and towards the forest that hid their little village. Motoharu had already said his goodbyes. But he frowned slightly when he saw the hesitation in his nephew’s eyes before he turned away. He did not question the boy as they moved further away from their home.

They were about to step through the barrier that protected the village when someone called out. They turned to see their priestess walking towards them. Motoharu finally realized what bothered the boy when he saw the relief and happiness flood across the young face.

………………………………..

Naruto bowed when the old woman reached them. “Haruka-sama.” He did not try to conceal the happiness he felt of saying one last farewell to the woman that helped him so much.

Haruka pointedly looked at Motoharu. The older male resisted the urge to roll his eyes as he turned away from his nephew and the priestess and moved to give them space to talk without interruption.

“Naruto.” The blonde haired child was surprised to hear the usually hoarse voice speak so softly to him. He gazed up at her with a gentle smile upon his face. He watched silent tears shimmer in her old eyes, refusing to fall. Wordlessly she handed him two scrolls tied together with a blue ribbon.

He cradled them in his hands, waiting for her. She chuckled at his questioning gaze and sniffed as she raised a withered hand to caress a whiskered cheek. “Those two scrolls are my life’s work, medic jutsu as well as herbs and medicine that I want you to learn. It’ll help you to protect the people you love. And this…”

She whispered tenderly as she withdrew a small black case from within her kimono. “This was a gift for your father. It is tradition that all the members of the house would bestow a small part of their clan to their intended. A sign of trust and love; your mother never had the chance to deliver the gift. It’s yours now.”

Naruto opened the case to see a small red stone glowing brightly. “It’s a blood pendant.” His voice revealed his awe. Haruka nodded in obvious pride. “I’m glad you know of such an important part of our culture Naru-chan.” Naruto closed the case and placed it into his traveling sack with the two scrolls. Meeting the gaze of the priestess, he asked, “Is my blood a part of the pendant as well Haruka-sama?”

Haruka sighed as she gazed into those blue eyes. Instead of answering his question, the old priestess’ ancient eyes gazed beyond Naruto into distant memory. “You’re mother had gray eyes you know. She was my favorite student. You have her nose... and her spirit.” Her musing was shaken when Naruto touched her hand, silently pleading to know. “...A drop of your blood was placed within the stone when you first came to us. When the time comes, you will present your heart to the one you love. And this will be a simple gift between lovers. You are too young now to see, to understand. But you will know…in time.”

She kissed his forehead before running her hand through his long golden hair. She laughed when he tightened the topknot. “Good-bye Uzumaki Naruto.”

She waited until he turned away from her before she let the tears fall.

………………………………………

It was not long in their travels when they reached Wind Country. There they came upon the Hidden Sand village.

After a few days of staying there, Motoharu informed Naruto that they would be moving on soon. Naruto did not argue, but managed to let his uncle agree to let him explore the village.

Naruto, in his haste that morning, could not find the cloth that fastened his hair together; knowing that his uncle could change his mind about his outing, he left their rooms with his hair loose. With him wearing a simple blue kimono, without his usual weapons strapped on, he could be mistaken for a little girl.

With wonder in his eyes he moved through the village looking at stores and at the people walking through the streets. In their journey, he had come to appreciate everything he saw, being confined to his village until he was six made him so curious and innocent of the outside world.

Even though his curiosity was heightened at the things he saw, he remembered his uncle’s warning about the dangers of other villages.

Feeling the hot air of the desert taking its toll on him, Naruto looked for shade to sit under. He found a solitary tree in what looked to be a playground. Making sure that no one occupied the tree; he leaped up into its branches and sat on one of the larger ones. He sighed with contentment when a slight breeze moved through the leaves and caressed his fevered skin.

‘KIT’.

Naruto was immediately pulled into his subconscious at an alarming rate. He could not help but glare at the demon. “You could have given me warning you were going to do that.”

Kyuubi ignored the remark and growled menacingly.

‘IT SEEMS THAT SHUKAKU IS IN THIS VILLAGE.’

Naruto was instantly on alert. A while back Kyuubi had informed him of some of the demons that he encountered before he was sealed inside Naruto. And one of those demons was Shukaku, the one tailed demon of the desert. From the stories that Kyuubi revealed about the desert demon, Naruto was fascinated to actually meet this crazed tanuki.

“Should I seek him out?”

‘THAT WON’T BE NESCESSARY. HE IS VERY CLOSE. BE ALERT, KIT.’

Naruto only had time to nod an affirmative before he was pushed back and jolted into full awareness. He felt the prickle of power licking at his senses as he surveyed the empty playground beneath him. He turned his head when he heard shuffling. To his surprise, right behind the tree he occupied was a set of swings, and there sitting alone was a red-haired boy about his age.

He continued to watch silently as the lone boy held a worn teddy bear as he swung softly on his seat. Naruto frowned when he saw the sadness that reflected upon the tearstained face. Before he could move, Naruto silently witnessed the sand at the boy’s feet start to rise of its own accord and twirl around like little whirlwinds.

/Shukaku’s container, huh. It seems that Shukaku got into the same predicament as you Kyuubi-sama./

Naruto smirked when he could feel the irritation that Kyuubi felt rising inside him. He smoothed his face into an unmoved mask, before jumping down from his perch loud enough to alert the other boy to his presence.

He moved around the tree and came face to face with the boy. He realized with silent observation the weariness and hesitation in the other boy’s green eyes. The dark circles under the redhead’s eyes concerned Naruto. He took a step forward and halted when the sand between them started to rise and move towards him.

Naruto took a deep breath and smiled softly at the boy. Living so long with his stoic uncle as his only companion had stunted his social skills. But he was determined to at least appear friendly, even if a little awkward. “Hi. My name’s Naruto. What’s yours?”

The boy watched Naruto in confusion. He held the bear tighter to his chest and stepped back a pace.

Naruto was not disheartened and laughed, “Do you want to play?”

Naruto watched the boy narrow his eyes in suspicion. He bit his lip and shrugged, as if he didn’t care either way. He glanced down towards the shifting sand and smiled again. “That’s pretty neat. I wish I could do that.”

Still keeping his tone light and welcoming, Naruto moved slowly forward until he was two feet away from the other boy. He noticed the redhead tense at his close proximity, before lowering his head to watch the sand at their feet.

“Gaara.”

Naruto lifted his head in question. He met soft green eyes within a pale face.

“My name: Gaara of the desert.”

Naruto beamed, “Nice to meet you Gaara.”

Gaara silently examined Naruto with curiosity and apprehension shining in his eyes.

Naruto could see the anxiety setting in around Gaara’s aura. He could only guess what put the other boy on alert around him. This close to the other boy, Naruto was slowly letting Shukaku feel Kyuubi’s chakra. Hopefully the desert demon would not do anything drastic.

Gaara’s eyes widened when he felt Shukaku shriek within him. He stumbled away from Naruto in alarm. His sand came to defend against Naruto. But to his amazement the blonde did not appear to fear the approaching sand; Naruto stood there with a hand stretched out toward Gaara.

“Don’t be afraid, Gaara. Don’t let Shukaku’s ranting confuse you. I want to be your friend.”

Gaara inhaled sharply when he heard the blonde’s words. He shook his head in denial as Shukaku started screaming for blood.

Realizing that Gaara was not listening to him anymore he switched tactics.

“Shukaku! Cease your rambling antics immediately! Kyuubi-sama demands it!”

Gaara gritted his teeth as he held onto his head. The pain intensified for a brief moment before it calmed like never before. He could still hear Shukaku, but it was quiet and humbling.

Gaara turned to Naruto with wonder in his eyes. Naruto smiled in return. “You see Gaara, I’m just like you.”

Naruto patted his stomach and giggled, “Kyuubi-sama, the nine-tailed fox demon resides in me.”

Gaara trembled with elation and slight disbelief that someone could be just like him. He watched in awe as Naruto moved slowly towards him. He was surprised at the ease and acceptance the blonde showed as he smiled softly at him.

“Maybe we could talk more about it, huh Gaara?”

Gaara was speechless as he gazed at the blonde; without hesitation though, he spoke quietly. “You’re very different from other girls aren’t you?”

Naruto blinked, and blinked again.

Not letting Naruto respond Gaara smiled for the first time since their meeting. A soft shy smile, with a faint blush on his pale cheeks he declared softly, “But you’re the prettiest girl I’ve ever seen.”

/Girl/

Blink.

/Did he just call me a girl/

Blink.

“WHAT!”

……………………………………….

Gaara and Naruto’s friendship grew that day. Well…after Naruto set Gaara straight about his gender, that is.

Everyday after that, Motoharu would find them spending time together. Naruto had informed his uncle of what had transpired that first day they met. He told him about Kyuubi’s involvement in Shukaku’s sudden calm behavior within Gaara. There was no need for a lot of persuasion for Shukaku to obey Kyuubi; his fear of the fox demon’s wrath squashed any rebellion that Shukaku had.

Because of their mutual circumstance, Gaara was able to relax a bit. Without the constant voice commanding him to kill or the persistent demand for control of his body, he was able to sleep peacefully.

Their friendship was strengthened when Naruto found Gaara one night crying on the roof of his house. He was about to make his presence known when he realized that Gaara was speaking to someone as he sobbed. Moving closer he saw the wounded form of Yashamaru, Gaara’s caretaker, speaking to his charge.

Naruto was speechless at the things he heard the soft spoken man say to Gaara. Yashamaru spoke of his hatred and ambition to kill Gaara all through the time he took care of the six year old boy. His heart clenched when he heard Gaara continue to sob in sorrow and disbelief. He didn’t think about his actions when he saw the explosives strapped to Yashamaru’s chest, he just moved in front of Gaara and held on as the area suddenly shook around them.

Naruto expected pain to accompany his actions but felt nothing. He raised his head from Gaara’s shoulder and saw the tearstained face looking at him in shock. Naruto turned his head a little to see Gaara’s sand barrier had protected them from the blast. Watching the sand barrier break down made Naruto numb with wonder; Gaara was alive.

Naruto turned back to Gaara when he felt his friend tremble. The green eyes that met his were still watery, but the sadness was slowly diminishing. “You risked your life to save me; Why?”

Naruto moved away slightly and smiled mournfully at Gaara. “Because you’re my friend Gaara; My own special friend. Friends protect each other.”

“...”

“Don’t listen to what Yashamaru said; I care about you. I don’t want anything to happen to you. I don’t fear you, I don’t hate you. I would never hurt you, Gaara. Friends don’t hurt each other. You’re a good person, never forget that.”

Gaara’s tears fell again as he absorbed all that Naruto said, clinging to his words like a lifeline. He was surprised that his sand did not react when Naruto hugged him tightly. “I’m your friend Gaara. Yashamaru was wrong…from now on you’re the brother of my heart. And as my brother, I give you unconditional love.”

Naruto held onto the other boy as he sobbed uncontrollably. He let his own tears fall onto Gaara’s shoulder as he felt Gaara’s arms wrap around him desperately.

“It’s going to be okay Gaara.”

It felt like hours before Motoharu found them curled up together on the roof. He was silent as he gently woke them up and motioned them to follow him home.

It did not take long for news to spread about what happened that night. Gaara waited with Naruto and Motoharu in their hotel room until the Anbu force came for Gaara. Motoharu quietly asked for attendance to see the Kazekage when the Anbu made to leave with Gaara.

Naruto and Gaara did not know what Motoharu and Gaara’s father discussed in the Kage’s office, but they were surprised when they were motioned inside only to see Gaara’s sister Temari screaming at their father. At their appearance she sobbed as she rushed over and knelt before her little brother. With her head lowered to the ground she beseeched Gaara, asking for his forgiveness.

“I’m sorry little brother. I didn’t know what they planned to do.”

She was trembling as she hiccupped through her explanations.

“Please forgive me for not loving you enough, not having the strength to protect you.”

Her badly shaking hands grabbed the hem of his pants and held on.

In her sorrow she forgot about Gaara’s instinctive protective defense. Fortunately for her, Gaara welcomed her comfort. Even though he was confused, he felt her love for him. Though accepting her words, he did not reply to her pleads, and remained quiet and stoic.

Motoharu motioned to Naruto; quietly they left the room. Naruto must have shown his unease at leaving them alone. But Motoharu shook his head. “We can’t help them in this Naruto. They have to fix this themselves. The Kazekage may have given up on his youngest son, but Gaara’s sister has shown her strength when most needed. Your friend Gaara will be all right. Have faith, Naruto.”

It took all of Naruto’s self control to keep from looking back as they walked away from the doors that led into that sad scene.

……………………………………….

Naruto smiled sadly at his friend. He took a chance to look behind Gaara’s shoulder to see Temari and Kankuro waiting patiently for their little brother. It had been two weeks after the incident, but it seemed that his uncle Motoharu was right. Gaara was slowly recovering, and with Naruto’s constant companionship, Gaara was getting closer to his siblings.

Unfortunately, Motoharu had found it time for them to continue their journey. So with final farewells Naruto had made sure that Temari and Kankuro would take good care of his friend.

“Goodbye Uzumaki Naruto. We’ll meet again someday?”

Gaara tried to keep the sudden nervousness out of his voice, but Naruto heard and nodded. “Don’t worry Gaara, we’ll meet again. If Shukaku gives you any trouble, make sure to tell your tenant that Kyuubi would not appreciate his disobedience.”

Naruto giggled when Gaara’s siblings shifted nervously from foot to foot.

Gaara stared at Naruto intently. After a few seconds he smirked. “You should stop giggling if you’re offended that people are mistaking you for a girl.”

Naruto blinked in confusion before it clicked. He glared in irritation. “I don’t giggle.”

Gaara shrugged.

Naruto turned and moved towards his uncle who was waiting at the village gates. He paused and turned slightly to meet Gaara’s green gaze. “Until we meet again, brother.”

………………………………………..

For years after, Motoharu and Naruto moved through the ninja countries and beyond, training and learning. It became easier for Naruto to focus on his bloodline limit because of the vast places and natural habitats they encountered. As time passed, Naruto’s relationship with nature grew until he could easily understand the variety of speeches of different animals and plants. He came to acknowledge that his particular gift was not like a summons, for every life that he called upon was different. The creatures of nature were sensitive to emotions; they understood more of his feelings better than he did. If they so chose, they did not have to cooperate with anything he said or did.

That was a point he learned when at the age of nine he was introduced to a group of missing-nin from Hidden Mist Village. In the area where they were ambushed the trees and animals were dark and angry. Naruto in a second of miscalculation activated his bloodline limit. The roots of the surrounding trees burst from the ground at his feet and wrapped around his ankle. He felt the anger and resentment in their voices through his link to them. He heard his uncle shout at him, but his attention was on the roots that squeezed around his torso before it flung him across the area and onto a nearby lake; He managed to stay atop the water. Though his instincts were demanding that he run, he calmed his breathing and focused. The missing-nin that approached him was fast and likely to win if he used the lake against Naruto.

Again he used his bloodline, this time calling forth the creatures of the lake. He beseeched them, pleaded, “Help me protect my uncle. I beg you spirits of the dark depths.” Naruto heard the answer and smiled before raising his head and meeting the shinobi head on. He smirked, for he knew what the nin saw when he stopped a few yards away. Naruto’s eyes glowed an unnatural blue, seeming to light up and pierce the very daylight with their brightness. The ninja’s hesitation at the sight cost him; the water around them exploded as giant tentacles emerged and wrapped around the mist-nin’s body. Naruto watched as the shinobi struggled to free him self.

“Zabuza!” Naruto heard the voice a second before his concentration was broken by an ice crystal that pierced his side. He stumbled and felt his connection with his bloodline diminish. He held his wound as he watched the tentacle retreat and disappeared under the surface of the water.

Motoharu gripped his katana tighter as he moved to Naruto’s side. Without sparing a glance at his injured nephew, Motoharu addressed the missing-nin. “Leave. Take your leader, child, and leave this place.” Both Motoharu and Naruto watched a boy few years older than Naruto pick up the unconscious missing-nin and move away from them. He glared at them once before disappearing entirely.

Naruto turned to see his uncle wiping blood off his katana. Without looking at his nephew, Motoharu began cleaning his weapon. “If you do not have to take a life, don’t take it. Don’t be eager to kill, it always destroys the man you are.” Motoharu said no more as he moved to burn the bodies of the missing-nin he killed.

Motoharu showed no surprise when a few days later the two ninjas came back. He wasted no time as he moved to intercept the leader with the huge sword. Naruto was left to deal with the younger ninja.

The two boys danced around each other. Naruto tried to keep the other boy engaged in taijutsu, making the missing-nin unable to concentrate on performing any bloodline limit jutsu. He doubled his efforts by deactivating his gravity field to increase his speed. He saw the surprise on the other boy’s face, before his fist smashed into it. As the mist-nin’s face snapped back from the force, Naruto grabbed one of the boy’s wrists and brought him back. Swinging him around, Naruto smashed him, back first, into a tree trunk. Naruto heard the gasp of pain, but not wasting time he made one handed seals,

“Suiton: Enforced Piercing Fang.” A long slender dagger made entirely of water glowed brightly in his hand before he quickly smashed it into the mist-nin’s chest. The crunch of bones was clearly heard over the other boy’s scream before he sent a swift kick at Naruto’s unprotected head. Naruto released the nin’s wrist in order to block, but the force behind the kick still pushed him back.

Naruto straightened and watched the other nin hold a trembling hand to the center of his chest. He frowned at the other boy’s endurance. After a moment he nodded to his opponent. “I may have not pierced your skin, but that attack has destroyed your ribcage and may have crushed your organs. Stop before it’s too late, you may still have time to heal those wounds.” Naruto gazed at the boy’s dark angry eyes and tried not to falter when blood started to trickle from the corner of the boy’s mouth.

“I won’t loose, Zabuza needs me!” The mist-nin screamed in rage as he launched himself at Naruto. Blood kept flowing freely as the boy opened his mouth to exhale.

Their blows were swift and fierce, but Naruto was getting frustrated. He wanted to end the battle quickly, so with determination he withdrew his katana and ran at the other boy. He doubled his efforts when he saw his opponent moving through seals for what seemed like his ultimate attack. Gritting his teeth Naruto pushed more chakra into his feet and his speed doubled. He knew without a doubt what was going to happen, but he could not stop his momentum. At the last moment, he executed a series of seals: Lightning Force Descent! Gripping his katana in his right hand he performed a one handed somersault, releasing the jutsu from his left hand into the ground. Everything within a twenty yard vicinity pulsed with an electric charge. The charge passed through the mist ninja rendering him immobile. In a moment of paralysis from his opponent, Naruto swung his blade while in midair.

Landing a few feet away, Naruto watched the head roll next to his feet as the blood coated the ground. He did not turn as he heard the body hit the ground.

Naruto distantly understood his uncle informing the missing-nin that his young partner was dead and he would be wise to retreat. He stood stiffly, waiting for the adrenaline to finish coursing through his body. /My first kill./

“Naruto?”

Naruto felt his uncle briefly place a hand on his shoulder before moving to prepare the body. Naruto jerked out of his musings and stopped his uncle.

“No uncle. I will do it. He’s my responsibility.”

Motoharu did not object as he silently watched his nephew burn the body of the boy he killed.

While they left the area, their silence was interrupted by Motoharu’s monotone voice. “The first kill is always the hardest Naruto. To protect those close to you, you sometimes hurt others. Think about that Naruto.”

“...”

…………

In each village they visited, Motoharu was greeted with familiarity. Though curious, Naruto did not voice his questions about his uncle’s popularity. But he did benefit from the fortunate events; retired and active shinobis who knew Motoharu were willing to teach Naruto their particular jutsus and even occasionally they would teach him different types of taijustu. From each one, he was able to incorporate into his own style.

While he learned from others as well as his uncle, the other occupant in his body was not quiet. Now and then Naruto would willingly visit the fox demon. It took time, but eventually Naruto came to respect the fox demon for his power, but he still tried to sedate the demon’s bloodlust.

When he slept, Naruto would keep the demon company. It was amusing at first, for the demon refused to admit that the silence within his cage was chewing on his sanity. He was very adamant about not needing the small child’s constant chatter to fill the silence, to quench his boredom.

Naruto also came to realize how intelligent the demon really was. ‘OF COURSE I’M SMARTER THAN ALL YOU MISERABLE INSECTS. I HAVE LIVED FOR MANY THOUSANDS OF YEARS. I WOULD THINK THAT WAS OBVIOUS. OF COURSE I KEEP FORGETING TO WHOM I SPEAK. A SMALL AND STUPID CHILD.’

The taunt was full of amusement at the expense of the little child. But Naruto only shrugged his shoulders, letting the comments roll off him. He knew how meaningless it was to try anything in his defense. The damn fox was cleverer than he was. The constant barbs were proof of it.

‘WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN LEARNING LATELY KIT?’

Naruto listed the things that had happened that past week.

‘I HAVE ENCOUNTERED BEINGS THAT COULD USE YOUR BLOODLINE LIMIT. PERHAPS THEY WERE OF YOUR CLAN.’

Naruto perked up at the statement. He kept quiet, hoping that Kyuubi would elaborate more on the subject.

‘THEY WERE MORE ACUTE TO THIS GIFT THAN THIS GENERATION IS NOW. TIMES CHANGE KIT. MANY OF THE THINGS THAT ARE HAPPENING ARE LINKED.’

Naruto frowned at the cryptic words. He shook his head. “I don’t believe in fate Kyuubi-sama. Nothing is absolute. I make my own destiny.” The determination in his eyes was strong and the demon could do nothing but laugh.

‘YOU THINK THAT MERELY BY STATING SUCH A THING, IT’S REAL? YOU ARE STILL NAÏVE. NO MATTER HOW MUCH YOU THINK YOU KNOW, YOU ARE STILL A CHILD KIT.’

Naruto moved towards the cage and held onto the golden bars. He peered intently into the dark depths trying to see the outline of the demon. “I don’t want to be naïve Kyuubi-sama. I don’t want my childish ideals to cause my family pain. Teach me. I want to know, I want to learn what you are willing to give me. I don’t want to be a child in this world.”

Naruto tried not to jump back when the fox demon moved towards him leaving the shadows behind. He was astonished when the demon seemed to be purring as he sniffed Naruto.

‘YOU MUST NEVER ASK TO GROW TOO FAST KIT. YOU CAN NEVER GO BACK.’

Naruto relaxed when he felt the cushion of a fiery red tail wrap around him. He sat down within its warmth and sighed. “I might Kyuubi-sama. I might regret it later, but it’s my decision to make, and I want to learn and grow to understand. Am I wrong?”

He was greeted with silence. He waited patiently as he stroked the tail wrapped loosely around him.

‘I NEVER WANTED TO DESTROY YOUR VILLAGE KIT. ANGER BLINDS EVEN THE MOST POWERFUL OF BEINGS. I WAS NO DIFFERENT. EVEN NOW, AT MY AGE, I’M STILL NAÏVE. EASILY MANIPULATED, BY A HUMAN NO LESS.’

There was no humor in the rumbling laughter as the demon related what happened those years ago when he attacked Konoha.

‘ALL I WANTED WAS REVENGE FOR THE HUMANS WHO DESTROYED MY LANDS; MURDERED MY MATE AND MY OFFSPRING. I GAVE NO CARE TO WHOM IT WAS. I JUST WANTED THEM TO FEEL PAIN AS I DID.’

Naruto bit his lip when he saw through the Kyuubi’s eyes, flashes of the destruction that happened those years back.

‘IT WAS TRULY IRONIC THAT SHINIGAMI’S APPEARANCE; THE PAIN I FELT AS I WAS RIPPED FROM MY OWN BODY; WAS WHEN I UNDERSTOOD. IN THE AIR, I COULD SMELL THE LINGERING SCENT OF SNAKES. I, THE MOST POWERFUL OF DEMONS WAS MANIPULATED BY A SNIVELING SNAKE. IT WAS TOO LATE TO TURN MY ANGER WHERE IT WAS DUE. NOW THAT WRETCHED HUMAN IS RUNNING AROUND WITHOUT JUSTICE.’

Naruto saw the brief image of the man who destroyed both their lives. His pale skin was pasty white. He had sickly yellow reptilian eyes and long black hair. Both Naruto’s voice and Kyuubi’s overlapped.

“’OROCHIMARU, REVENGE WILL BE OURS,” BUT UNTIL THEN…. TRAIN KIT.’

Naruto frowned, he knew he was no match for a sannin and yet there was this craving for his blood. He could not decipher if it was his feelings or Kyuubi’s.

……………………………

At the age of eleven Naruto, with his uncle, had traveled around ninja countries twice as well as ventured once outside the ninja world. He made many friends and allies with his uncle Motoharu’s assistance. In each village Naruto would always feel a loss when he left, but he tried to be optimistic that he would see his friends again, both human and creatures of nature in that area.

As they settled for a night in the forest near Fire Country, Motoharu felt it time to disclose his decision to his nephew. He watched in the campfire’s light as Naruto trained his bloodline abilities. Naruto sat across from him, having a conversation with a doe as he controlled the grass and roots of a nearby tree to rock softly while a squirrel danced on top. He had succeeded in dividing his attention to execute many tasks without losing focus; easily informing his uncle that every time he lost his concentration it was because he had become too emotionally conflicted in his goal. And so as Naruto grew older, he became more and more serious and reserved like his uncle. But there were times where his mischief and humor would surface.

He taught the boy everything he knew; now it was up to Naruto to refine his own techniques and styles. Sometimes he wondered if he ever did right by Naruto; was he able to help Naruto grow into a stable and well-bred person? Did he teach Naruto the true values of being a good human being? From the moment he met his nephew all those years ago, he knew what a challenge it was going to be. He was unprepared for the responsibility of another life along with his own. He had learned from trial and error, just as Naruto was learning himself. At the very beginning of his guardianship of Naruto, he was aloof and strict. It seemed that even though he was down right harsh at times, the boy admired and loved him; mimicking him in speech, behavior and clothing.

Now, Naruto was very mature for his age, ready to begin his trials in the place where it all started. Even though Motoharu knew that he would not be leaving the boy’s side anytime soon, he was saddened to think that his nephew might forget his Uzumaki family, and forget his uncle as well.

But no matter what, he thought, he still felt proud that he was able to see and experience moments of Naruto’s growth with him. And it was time to continue elsewhere.

“Naruto?”

Naruto and the doe both turned to Motoharu. The dancing squirrel and elements of the earth stilled at his voice as well. He tried not to smirk when he saw the quiet question the two were giving him.

“I think it’s time that we paid a visit to your father’s village.”

………………………………………………………

It took two days to reach Konoha. Naruto’s excitement was hard to contain as he silently watched as his uncle Motoharu briefly explained their presence in Konoha to the chuunins that were guarding the gates. Motoharu merely provided a simple tourist’s speech and showed them the necessary papers before allowing admittance.

Motoharu glanced at Naruto and motioned towards the Hokage’s tower. “That will be our first destination.” Naruto nodded and straightened his pack as he kept pace with his uncle’s calm steps.

No one paid any special attention to them as they passed through the streets. Motoharu’s black garb appeared to the common people as a tourist; wearing a simple outfit of white and black while carrying a pack on his back, Naruto passed off as his son. With their weapons securely sealed within scrolls, Naruto and Motoharu seemed harmless.

They had no trouble moving through the tower, but the receptionist and the two Anbu guarding the doors to the Hokage’s office were a different story.

“I’m sorry but the Hokage is very busy at the moment, he’s in a meeting with someone. I don’t know when he will be available to speak with you. But I’m sure that if you come back tomorrow-”

When Motoharu raised a defined ebony brow at her, she tried to keep the pleasant smile upon her face. But after a few moments where he remained standing in front of her desk unmoving she cleared her throat and glanced at the two Anbu across the room. No matter how attractive the man was, his unflinching gray eyes were frightening.

Before the Anbu could intervene Motoharu addressed her again. “I understand your hesitation to bother the Hokage, just inform him that Motoharu wishes to speak with him.” The receptionist saw one of the Anbu cock his head at her and she swallowed her unease before she pressed the button on her desk.

“What is it Kira?”

“Sorry to bother you Hokage-sama, but there is a Motoharu-san here to see you.”

There was small pause before a quiet affirmation was replied. “Let him enter, as well as his companion.”

Kira glanced at Motoharu in surprise before peering at the boy that accompanied the black haired man. She was shocked that the Hokage knew that the man had a companion when she did not specify such. She was still staring at them when the boy moved forward and inclined his head to her in thanks.

She sat there watching as both man and child turned and disappeared through the doors that the Anbu opened for them.

…………………………

Motoharu and Naruto both analyzed the room and its occupants before bowing when they were a few feet away from the Hokage’s desk. Motoharu recognized the other man as the young apprentice of his brother-in-law, Hatake Kakashi. The brooding young boy was now a tall gray haired man standing stiffly to the side while staring at them in surprise. From what Motoharu could interpret, the jounin recognized him, but he wondered if he remembered about Naruto.

Naruto was dismissing the jounin, his full attention was on the old man seating in his chair, a pipe fixated firmly between his lips, watching him. He met the gaze unflinchingly. The silence was not threatening, just heavy with undisguised tension. Naruto was not surprised by his uncle’s silence; he knew the routine fairly well.

“Welcome back Motoharu-san.” A puff of smoke emanated from the old man’s pipe; his eyes still passive, squarely on Naruto.

Motoharu returned the greeting with a nod of his head. “Thank you, Hokage-sama. I have hoped to come back to Konoha for quite some time. But…”

Sarutobi smiled at his two visitors, he motioned them to the two seats in front of his desk. “Please take a seat.”

Sarutobi watched the two gracefully situate themselves in the seats without breaking eye contact with him. From the corner of his eye, he saw Kakashi shift from foot to foot in confusion.

“Motoharu-san, you remember Hatake Kakashi?”

Naruto’s gaze shifted from the desk in front of him, and immediately beside it stood a gray-haired man. He wore a facemask that covered his mouth; his fore-head protector was at a slant covering one of his eyes. Clad in a dark-blue suit, with a green bulky jacket, a stern look heavily on his face, the ninja kept his eyes locked on Naruto. Naruto quickly withdrew and stared up at his uncle, who had a much less serious expression. His uncle nodded in the ninja’s direction as he placed one hand on Naruto’s shoulder.

“The years have been kind to you, Hatake,” Motoharu’s voice, sincere and forward. “You remember, Naruto,” and slowly withdrew his hand. He then shifted his gaze back to the Hokage. “Our presence here will not be a disruption to Konoha, but swift and unrealized. Naruto has…”

The Old Kage immediately drowned Motoharu’s voice, “…grown to be a fine young man.” With his eyes directly on Motoharu, he inhaled sharply and released a gray cloud of smoke. “Naruto indeed looks just like his father in his youth.” The Hokage looked at Naruto and his eyes softened, almost watery. A small smile spread on the Hokage’s face. “You…--” a shuriken flew past Naruto, straight for the Hokage, accompanied by scurried footsteps trailing behind.

“I’ve got you, old man,” followed the voice of a child. Naruto immediately turned to see a figure of a small boy, no older than 6, a fierce stare on his face. Fists clenched, and shirt drenched in sweat, and a small little helmet atop his adolescent head.

“My grandson, Konohamaru.” The hokage looked grimly at the young boy, with the shuriken in hand.

“I will be Hokage, one day!” screamed the youthful child, as he turned and left. Naruto’s gaze followed Konohamaru to the doorway, and well for some time.

“He is a good grandson,” the Hokage was now smiling, “just very lonely,” he said directly to Naruto. Naruto smiled and acknowledged the permission. The Hokage then looked directly at Motoharu.

“My judgment is appropriate.” His gaze seemed to pierce deeper into Motoharu’s eyes. “You shall be Konoha’s guest. And we shall discuss … matters after you have rested.”

………………………………

After the door closed behind Motoharu and Naruto, the silence in the room deepened. Sarutobi continued to puff on his pipe as he watched the door in contemplation. In the brief moments that he gazed at the boy, Sarutobi was able to see only glimpses of Arashi in the boy before his uncle’s influence clouded over any emotion. Naruto seemed to be a serious young boy. Confident yet lacking the arrogance that usually accompanied such a behavior, especially in younger people; how much had he learned in these past years?

Pushing those thoughts to the back of his mind for later observation, Sarutobi turned to Kakashi and motioned for him to speak his mind.

“Is he here to stay?”

Sarutobi frowned slightly as he turned his head and stared at the pictures of all the Hokages that were mounted on the wall. The picture of the fourth Hokage was prominent, for he among them was so very young when he gave his life for this village. Even with the serious façade, Sarutobi could still picture the smiling mischievous eyes twinkling behind that stoic face of Arashi.

He planned on speaking with Motoharu again about Naruto’s inheritance as well as his stay in Konoha. By right, Naruto was a member of this village; his father wanted him to be a hero of the village he loved so much. But he would not force the boy to stay if he did not desire it, hopefully the boy would consent and maybe he could get to know his old friend’s only son.

“I still have to discuss Arashi’s wishes to Motoharu. For now they will be staying in Konoha.”

Kakashi narrowed his eye in contemplation, he saw the cool and apathetic gaze that Motoharu presented them with. He was totally aloof when he was speaking with them. It was just how he remembered the older man those years ago. When he was first introduced to Uzumaki Motoharu, Kakashi was still a young teen with many bitter memories and a haughty attitude. But he had slowly been coming around because of his sensei and his sensei’s beloved.

Uzumaki Imari was a beautiful woman with a sweet disposition. She was an intelligent and caring individual. She never gave up on winning Kakashi over. She would only smile when he ignored her. She would laugh when he said something sarcastic towards her. Even through all these misgiving on his part, she never lost her patience with him.

He could still hear her soft voice filled with laughter and love. “Your sensei considers you family Kakashi-kun, and I trust his judgment. I have to agree that you are a very special young man.”

Where Imari-san was gentle and open, Motoharu was cold and distant. They both had the same long straight black hair, same pale skin and piercing gray eyes. But that was where their similarities ended. When Motoharu came to see Imari, there was some doubt in Motoharu’s mind that his sister was making a mistake. Through countless arguments and angry words, he finally accepted his sister’s love for the Hokage of Konoha.

Kakashi tried not to flinch when he was pulled out of his thoughts when the Hokage called his name.

“If you happen to meet our guest around the village, please inform Motoharu that I wish to speak with him tomorrow.”

Kakashi only nodded his head before bowing in respect. Turning to leave, he pulled out his orange book as he sighed. “I’ll be going ahead to complete those reports I owe you Hokage-sama.”

From the side of Kakashi’s profile, the Hokage could see the faint smile on the shinobi’s face as he continued to read his book. Sarutobi shook his head when he heard the giggling before Kakashi left all together.

…………………………………………

Naruto assured his uncle that he would be careful in exploring the village before leaving their quarters at the inn. He kindly suggested that his uncle take the opportunity to find a bathing house and try to relax. All he got for his trouble was a blank stare and a slight nod for him to come back later for dinner.

Naruto assessed his appearance; inbred behavior always urged him to look presentable and decent. Especially in this particular village, this was his father’s home, and as the Fourth Hokage’s son he had to look at least well-dressed. Even though he knew that no one knew of his identity, he still wanted to honor his father in this small action. His white haori was pure silk with an intricate red design of a dragon curled around his left sleeve. His inner kimono was an ebony color that matched his full-length hakama. Like his Ojiisan Shigeru taught him, he let his hair down from the topknot, braided the sides, and then pinned them at the back of his head to keep the hair from his face. Knowing that weapons would pose questions, he only secured his tessons within his haori.

Double checking his appearance, he nodded in satisfaction at the result. He reassured his silent uncle that he would be appearing for dinner before departing. With his back turned to Motoharu, he did not see the slight surprise in his uncle’s eyes; for in the exception of his waist length hair, Naruto was a miniature version of Kazama Arashi.

Naruto was walking for about an hour through the crowded streets when he started to feel agitated by the constant stares of passersby. He knew the history behind this village, and he knew that if these people had even the slightest inkling of what he was, hell would break loose. But he guessed that they weren’t looking at him for that reason. He turned down a street corner and sighed with relief when he saw a decrease of buildings and a vast area of trees a few meters away. As he got closer to the area, he realized that maybe it was a specialized area for ninja training.

His excitement manifested into a small smirk before he slowly walked towards the trees. Silently, he reached out a hand and placed it upon the bark of the nearest tree. He was content to hear the soft joyous voices of the trees speaking to him.

His connection was severed when he heard someone nearby, and from the sounds he heard, that person was training. His curiosity getting the better of him, he walked through the foliage and into a clearing. Naruto stopped in his tracks when he saw a green clad boy punching a log with serious determination. He must have made a sound, for the boy stopped and turned to him, his face curious as to the one who interrupted his training. Naruto was rendered speechless as he took in the green skin-tight jumpsuit, the dark bowl-shaped haircut, big round eyes and dark thick eyebrows. From the signature sign of Konoha wrapped around the boy’s waist, Naruto concluded that he was a shinobi of genin rank.

He had no time to apologize for his disruption before the genin greeted him with a smile, “Hello, I’m Rock Lee.” Lee cocked his head to the side and observed the visitor. “Are you new to Konoha? I’ve never seen you in the village before.”

Naruto bowed in greeting, “Hello, I’m Uzumaki Naruto. And yes, I just arrived, today in fact. I was looking around the village when I stumbled upon the training grounds. I’m sorry if I disturbed you.” Naruto smiled in apology.

Lee shook his head, “That’s all right. I was going to stop for the day any way. I just lost track of the time.”

Seeing the blood on Lee’s cut knuckles, Naruto moved forward and motioned to the other boy’s hands. “Do you want me to help you with your injuries?”

Lee stared at his hands for a moment before smiling at the blonde. “I’ll take care of it when I get home later.” His reassurance was waved away when Naruto took his hands and gently started mending it with a medic jutsu. “No need to wait until you’re home, I’d be happy to help.” Naruto smiled when Lee inspected the healed skin with awe.

Lee’s eyes sparkled as he struck a pose for Naruto, his teeth twinkling as he grinned. “That was beautiful Naruto-kun. The spring time of youth is strong within you!”

Naruto stepped back in slight alarm at the display. He quickly recovered from his shock and smirked at the other boy. “You’re always very…loud, aren’t you?” He took pleasure in the sight of the other boy smiling sheepishly at him with a small blush blooming on his cheeks in embarrassment. “It’s alright Lee-san, it’s refreshing to meet such a happy and determined person.”

Lee grinned in acceptance at the compliment. He looked around briefly before he grabbed his water bottle. “Do you want to walk back to the village with me? It would be nice to chat with someone new to town.” Lee smiled happily when Naruto nodded his consent.

“Yosh! I’ll show you all the great sights of Konoha!”

Naruto’s mouth twitched at the corner, his eyes sparkling with amusement and mischief.

While they walked Lee took the time to observe his companion. He immediately saw the quiet way the boy spoke and acted and was reminded of someone he knew and yet this was vastly different from that person. There was no arrogance, just a graceful and intelligent air about him. Lee was shocked when he first saw Naruto, for a moment he thought the slender boy was a girl. From the soft blonde hair and slender form, Lee could see the misconception. But from the way he was dressed and the minor cracking tenor signaling upcoming adulthood, Lee was positive that Naruto was indeed a boy.

The boy carried no forehead protector and no weapon, so Lee concluded that the boy was either still an academy student or merely just a civilian. He seriously doubted the latter from the way the boy carried himself. He was sure that boy was more than he seemed, especially after using jutsu to heal his hands.

It seemed during their walk they stirred off course towards another area that Lee recognized instantly as neutral training grounds for all. He was surprised to see that it was being occupied by none other than his own teammates. It was just past noon and usually after a hard mission like the one they completed yesterday, Gai-sensei would give them the next day to rest.

Lee was shocked to see both his teammates there as well as a few others that he assumed were still academy students. He instantly recognized Uchiha Sasuke’s brooding figure as he glared at Lee’s teammate, Hyuuga Neji. And to the sidelines was his other teammate Tenten and Uchiha’s fanclub: Ino and Sakura. He quickly summarized from the intense atmosphere that Sasuke and Neji were close to battling it out.

Lee knew that Neji was usually cool about confrontation no matter who started it. But the animosity between Sasuke and Neji was never cleared nor controlled. So it was very unpredictable. Lee nervously turned to his companion to suggest that he wait while Lee tried to break up the fight, but Naruto’s attention was focused on the group in front of him. Lee could see Naruto’s face loose all expression as he tilted his head in their direction.

Lee sighed before nodding and moving with Naruto towards the group. Seeing that Neji and Sasuke were pointedly ignoring the calls of warning from the girls, Lee hurried over. “Neji! My eternal rival, you are not supposed to fight with academy students!”

From the corner of Naruto’s eye, he could see the girl with pink hair grit her teeth at Lee’s comment. The blond standing next to her was shaking her fist at Lee, while the quiet girl with her hair in buns at the sides of her head was watching in silent apprehension. The two feuding boys were no exception; Naruto observed both and had to bite back a smirk when they turned to glare at Lee. It seemed his new friend was warranting unwanted tension.

It only seemed logical to try and dissolve any conflict. Naruto noted with interest that even if both boys were ebony haired youth, they differed in everything else. One of the boys had a strange haircut that almost rivaled Lee’s. He had to keep from showing his amusement when he instantly thought of a parakeet. The parakeet haired boy wore a blue shirt with white shorts. The back of his blue shirt sported a fan of red and white that Naruto assumed was his clan’s symbol. From a distance, Naruto could see the black eyes piercing into Lee for interrupting.

The other boy was calmer, only his pale silver eyes showed his displeasure. Naruto noted the eyes held no pupils, just a slight outline of where one should be. He had long black hair tied at the end. He wore a dark gray shirt with a high collar and dark shorts. Unlike the other boy, he wore a forehead protector similar to Lee’s. The way he held himself was true arrogance. Naruto realized that if he tried he could maybe match expressions with the long-haired boy. But the arrogance and condescension he saw in those eyes was rather disturbing.

Naruto stepped forward and gently placed a hand on Lee’s elbow, halting his steps. He decided to play this out carefully. He made sure that no emotion was expressed on his face before he spoke. “Lee-san, are these people your friends?” He felt all eyes shift to him in surprise at his appearance at Lee’s side. He ignored them and kept his attention on Lee for the moment. Feigning his indifference to them was easy as he met Lee’s curious gaze. Silently, he tried to make Lee understand his cause. He almost smiled when he saw Lee grin before grabbing his arm that was still on his elbow and pulling him along.

“Everyone…this is my new friend.” Lee beamed at them before motioning to each and introducing them. Pointing to the girl with the hair buns, Lee beckoned her to come. “That’s Tenten, my teammate.” The other girls trailed behind in curiosity. Lee’s eyes started to sparkle when they landed on the pink haired girl. “That is Sakura-kun.” Naruto watched the girl in question grit her teeth as her eyes twitched.

The blond girl cocked her head to the side and hesitated, “Hi. I’m Ino. Are you Lee-san’s girlfriend?” Naruto could faintly feel Lee gawk at the blond in shock. Naruto had experienced this so many times that he was no longer astonished by the misconception. Lee had no time to answer when the boy with the dark eyes snorted. Lee shook his head from his stupor and continued with his introductions. “This is Uchiha Sasuke.” Naruto turned his attention to the boy and inclined his head in greeting.

Lee grinned at Naruto’s quiet countenance in the face of curiosity and almost hostile environment. He turned to the last person and struck his pose. “And this is my other teammate and eternal rival, Hyuuga Neji!”

Naruto met the silver gaze and raised an eyebrow at the suspicious glare. He felt the sudden urge to fidget under that gaze. But he squashed it quickly before he nodded his head at Lee. “It seems that you really are loud.” He made sure his mirth reflected in his blue eyes for Lee to see.

Lee nodded even as he blushed in embarrassment. He blinked in surprise when he realized that he never informed the group of who Naruto was. He waved his hand gently at Naruto as he addressed everyone else. “This is Uzumaki Naruto.”

Naruto tried not to frown when he saw the boy named Sasuke narrow his gaze at him. He sighed softly, realizing he was wasting time here. Clearly, the tense situation had dissolved and Naruto was aching to leave this place and find somewhere quiet to mediate and connect with nature.

“Lee-san, I think I can find my way back. I’ve taken more than enough of your time. I hope to see you around.”

Naruto bowed to all in farewell before he turned to leave. He did not get far when a kunai pierced the ground a few inches away from his feet. He heard a gasp as he calmly kneeled down and plucked the kunai from the ground and turned toward the group. He stared right into Sasuke’s dark gaze, which was filled with suspicion and repressed anger. “That was rather rude Uzumaki Naruto; leaving without making a good enough excuse. Is that how they taught you to treat people in your household?”

Naruto ignored the harsh question as he calmly walked back and presented the kunai to Sasuke. “I believe this is yours?”

Sasuke met his blue gaze with fury, but managed to contain it as he grabbed the kunai and scowled at him. “Why did I bother? I don’t care how rude you are, that’s obviously a character flaw in all girls. And you’re no different.”

Naruto saw Lee about to protest on his behalf but he shook his head at Lee to be quiet. It seemed that there were two arrogant boys here today. /No wonder they don’t get along./ Naruto could clearly see the distress in Sakura’s eyes. He was baffled at how she continued to fawn over a boy that seemed not to care about her at all. On the other hand, Ino and Tenten were both in degrees of being irritated and offended by the remark.

Making his decision, Naruto turned his full attention to Sasuke. He would be lucky if his uncle did not hear about him starting fights, but Naruto couldn’t help it. He had an annoyingly soft spot for girls in misery, courtesy of constant training from Haruka-sama on proper behavior and respect towards the female population. Mito was no exception; though her education was more brutal. There would be a fierce dodging of shuriken and other weapons if he so much as offended the woman.

“I might be reaching, but it seems as if I have offended you in some way. Do you have a problem with me Uchiha-san?” Naruto let a certain coldness fill his voice as he stared at Sasuke.

Sasuke met his gaze head on. He smirked when he realized that he might have ruffled the girl’s stoic attitude. “Yes. Rude as you are, you are too damn calm. I don’t like liars, and you Uzumaki Naruto are the worst sort. Being a fake as well as being weak.” Sasuke was mildly curious at to what the girl would do. He frowned in confusion when the girl nodded before turning to everyone else.

Naruto met Lee’s gaze and smiled briefly. Seeing the clear anxiety in those eyes made Naruto feel at ease in the fact that he did indeed make a friend in Lee. “It seems that I have to fight to preserve my honor.” The way he said it was underlying a hint of sarcasm and good humor.

Naruto briefly met Neji’s gaze and blinked at the blank stare. He could see Neji silently observing him before the other boy scoffed in dismissal and walked away to give them room to fight. From the way the Hyuuga dismissed him, Naruto assumed that Neji didn’t see him as much of a problem. Neji at least agreed with Sasuke on that subject, Naruto concluded. Clearly both boys thought very little of him, but he just shrugged his shoulders before turning back to Sasuke. /One arrogant ass at a time./ He was glad that Lee had made the protesting ladies move to the sidelines.

“Alright…show me how much of a fake I am Sasuke-san.”

Sasuke smirked as he took out three shuriken and threw them at the blonde. He made sure not to put too much power into his throw; he didn’t want to hurt the girl more than necessary. He frowned when the girl dodged his attack and cocked her head at him as if daring him. He sneered at the girl before he threw two more shuriken with a little more force. Again the girl dodged easily.

“I hope that is not all Sasuke-san.” Her voice was mocking and her smirk teased him relentlessly.

He scowled as he pulled out a kunai and threw it at her with all his force. He had a moment of panic when he realized that in his anger, he was going to hurt a defenseless girl. It was short lived though as he watched as the kunai was parried away from the girl’s chest by a short steel rod that she withdrew from within the folds of her clothes. The sound of the weapons meeting was heard through the clearing. Metal against metal.

Naruto kept his weapon at his side as he scrutinized the other boy. “Are you going to take me seriously now?”

Sasuke narrowed his eyes at the blonde as he pulled another kunai from his holster and ran at the girl. He was going to teach the girl not to mock him. Just as he aimed to strike, the girl’s unarmed hand moved forward and grasped his wrist to stop his momentum. /Fast/ That was Sasuke’s only thought before the girl rapped her steel weapon against his forehead.

He gritted his teeth and tried to focus. He used the girl’s momentary distraction in repeatedly tapping his forehead to his advantage. He brought his unrestrained hand up to deflect the weapon at the same he brought his knee into the girl’s stomach. But neither connected as she released his wrist and sidestepped the blow to her midsection. She seemed to dance gracefully around him as she finally revealed what her steel weapon truly was. With a flick of her wrist, the steel fan opened. But before Sasuke could blink, the fan was in motion as she ran the edge across his forearm. He hissed at the pain that bloomed from the cut. He ignored it as he pulled another kunai out and charged with one in each hand.

He swiped with his left kunai and kicked out when she dodged beneath the attack. She saw the leg coming and swiped her right fan across his shin before elbowing the leg away from her body. Right after that attack, she closed her fan as she used the blunt end to hit him in his unprotected abdomen. The force of the blow made Sasuke drop his kunai and clenched his fist against his injury. Meanwhile, as she moved through the motions, her other hand had withdrawn the left fan.

Sasuke had leaned forward at the blow to his stomach but seeing the left fan coming at his face, he brought his right kunai down to strike. The girl turned her fan, displaying the designs on the steel to Sasuke before the kunai pierced through the thin spaces that connected the weapon together. She quickly snapped the fan closed, easily trapping his kunai before she twisted her weapon and the kunai so quickly from his grasp that he winced at the momentum that probably sprained his wrist. That moment of pain was all she needed to finish it as she brought her right fan to his neck and pressed lightly at his vulnerable skin.

“The match…is mine, Sasuke-san.”

Sasuke stilled as he stared at the girl in disbelief. His shock was so great that he forgot about his frustration and anger. The girl was so fast. He wasn’t able to hit her once. He stared into her blue eyes in wonder, but before he could speak she withdrew from him and gently offered him back his kunai. Ignoring the throbbing pain of his injury, he glanced at the kunai and with slow reactions he raised his hand to take the weapon when Lee’s voice pierced his fogged mind.

Lee and the girls were watching the match with wonder and some horror as Naruto beat Sasuke at each of his moves. Lee was impressed as he watched the sluggish attacks Sasuke delivered verses Naruto’s graceful speed and accuracy.

Ino was more vocal in her praise. She whistled as Naruto placed the fan at Sasuke’s neck. She was shocked to see such power in such a slender girl. “That girl is very good isn’t she Lee-san?”

He made a point of looking at Ino as he said seriously, “You’ll offend him with your remarks Ino-san. Naruto is my new friend and I don’t think he’ll appreciate being called a girl.”

Ino, Sakura and Tenten all stared at Lee in shock. From the look on his face, he wasn’t joking about what he just said. The silence that followed was very eerie as all the girls turned their attention to Sasuke’s opponent and tried to see evidence of what Lee stated. From the long hair to the beautiful cloths, they could not see anything that confirmed or denied his claim.

Their protests died in their throats when Sasuke spoke, his voice full of surprise. “You’re not a girl?”

………………………………….

Neji had been entranced by the display of power and grace in Naruto’s fighting skills. He had his suspicions of the new comer when the fight started. Even though he first assumed that Sasuke would win against the other opponent, he did not predict Naruto to be a boy. He was surprised when Lee finally explained Naruto’s true identity. But he did not activate his bloodline limit to confirm the fact; he could easily see it now. It was painfully obvious from the posture and lean build that he was more than what he first appeared. His elegant full clothing hid his musculature and deceived others into believing that his frame was slender like a girl’s own physique.

He tried not to openly stare at Naruto as he walked towards the group. The blonde may have skills but Neji was doubtful he would have a chance against him if they fought. He had no time to analyze anything else before Sasuke broke the silence. “You’re not a girl?”

Neji watched Naruto raise a fine blonde brow in question at the inquiry. He could not clearly see his eyes from the side profile, but Neji could guess what emotion was flowing through those blue eyes. No matter how much the cool and distant behavior fooled the others, Neji could see the brief glimpses of amusement in the blonde’s demeanor.

“I never said I was a girl. You assumed that I was.”

Not waiting for a reply, Naruto continued. “And even if I was one, would that factor have made a difference? Boy or girl, the outcome would be the same, don’t you think?”

Neji studied the exchange with hidden interest. He could see from Sasuke’s twitching eye that he did not appreciate Naruto’s humor. Even if he was fooled like everyone else was by Naruto’s identity, Neji did not feel any resentment, only curiosity. Such a deceptive image; making others feel secure in their own skills before destroying the illusion quickly and efficiently. The blonde was right to an extent; he did not clarify his gender and nothing in his attire would merit being labeled as a girl. They all assumed that because of his soft and innocent looking features, Naruto was indeed a member of the fairer sex. Even his voice was not high pitched like all the girls, but perhaps they overlooked that when they were first introduced to someone so different.

Neji suddenly had the urge to test the new boy’s true ability. Something in his chest tightened when he thought of the thrill it would bring him to fight someone so strong.

…………………………………………

Naruto watched Sasuke coolly as he tried to string words together. And from the looks on the others’ faces this was not a frequent event. He cocked his head to the side and watched the display of emotion move swiftly across Sasuke’s face. He dared not speak; he had a feeling that Sasuke wasn’t finished with his questions. He did not have to wait long.

“You…who are you?”

Naruto stared at Sasuke for a minute before he responded, “Lee-san already introduced me. I’m Uzumaki Naruto, I’m just visiting this village.” He tried not to give them too much information about himself. He was always uncomfortable when people knew too much about him, he felt exposed and vulnerable. He didn’t particularly like that feeling.

Watching the boy intently, Naruto frowned when he spotted the blood trickling down the other boy’s forearm. “You should do something about that arm.” The obvious concern in his quiet voice went unheeded by Sasuke.

“Where did you learn to fight like that?” The harshness in Sasuke’s voice was strong and grating. Naruto had a feeling that Sasuke was familiar with using intimidation as a ways to get what he wanted. He wasn’t naïve nor stupid enough to cower in front of an arrogant snob. He tried not to let his irritation show as he shrugged indifferently to the question.

“Around.”

Sasuke’s face started to grow red with his impatience and anger. But Naruto did not give him time to reply as he cleared his throat.

“I would stay and answer all your questions, but I do have things to do Sasuke-san.” His voice held a certain amount of dismissal and impatience.

Sasuke glared at him as he gritted his teeth. Clearly seeing that nothing he did was affecting the other boy, Sasuke turned and left the clearing. He did not stop even when he heard the persistent voices of his fan club calling out to him as they followed him.

Naruto turned away from that scene to eye the people left behind. Lee and Tenten were still watching the departed group. Lee-san had a dreamy look in his dark eyes as he watched the pink haired girl move away. Tenten just rolled her eyes at the display of the two girls.

Naruto felt the strong pull from his right. He turned slowly and saw the other boy, Neji, studying him coolly. His pale eyes were focused on his features with such a fierce intensity that Naruto’s stoic mask almost faltered. He was unnerved by the intense scrutiny. Unlike Sasuke, Neji’s eyes held no anger or impatience; there was no emotion.

Naruto quietly stared back, making sure that the other boy did not see his unease. He almost scoffed at the arrogant air that surrounded Neji; /How could people in this village stand such pompous children?/

TBC………

Thanks for all the reviews