Permission To Seek

Chapter 34 Breaking

Naruto stared at his sleeping comrade with purple-black and dark red bruises covering his lower jaw and the left side of his face. His breathing shallow with a bluish tint to his lips showing evidence of his reduced chakra as Naruto tried to reconstruct what happen. ‘I know this is somehow my fault, look what I’ve done.’ He suppressed the anguish rising again in his chest, looking at his bandaged hands and lightly touching the wrapping around his head. ‘Why did this happen?’ Turning his blue eyes back on Shino, he lightly touched his pale cheek, the skin cool to his fingertips.

“Shi?” No response, he stood next to the bed lost in despair. Taking a deep breath, he gathered the blankets from his bed covering his teammate. Naruto walked around the bed climbing in next to his injured comrade wrapping his sore arm over the broad chest and placing his head lightly on Shino’s shoulder. ‘I cannot let him be cold, I do not care who walks in; he needs this now.’

Naruto’s mind drifting as he remembered the first time he spoke with Shino and the intensity in which the dark frames stared at him, how nervous he felt back then. However, after his ordeal in the Hot Spring Village he remembered a dream in which Shino had cared for him he smiled his blue eyes shining with the memory, glancing at the black tee shirt he now wore. ‘I was really crazy at that time that was fun.’ He remembered the talks they shared, the pillow fight and a hot air balloon ride at the festival. ‘We had some fun.’ Raising his body a little higher to allow his arm to cover Shino’s neck he settled himself on the same pillow, starring at the lighter bruises on the right side of his face. ‘That time we spent in the waterfall was truly amazing; I started to believe.’ He leaned in carefully placing a gentle kiss on the cool cheek. Shino did not stir just continued to breathe lightly Naruto lowering his head back to the pillow gazing at his comrade.

‘Why, there is no reason for this to happen to Shino; he has gone through enough, we both deserve to be happy. How could I hurt my friend?’ The sound of the Fox echoed in his mind clenching his jaw Naruto tightened his grip on Shino, however let go immediately as the bug lord gasped moaning as if in pain.

Naruto rose up on one elbow, his eyes large hoping his lover would wake, gazing expectantly at Shino’s pale face however he merely took a deeper breath and remained asleep. Naruto reached his hand carefully to the collar of Shino’s tee shirt lifting the front of the cotton stretching it lightly peering at the broad chest beneath. “No.” The blue eyes widened turning back to stare in Shino’s face, allowing the shirt to slip from his fingers as his stomach twisted in knots he recalled Jiraiya’s words.

“…Naruto once you train with me you will have better control of that Nine-Tails chakra. If you experience black outs or lost memory report to the Fifth immediately, it may mean you have lost control of the demon…”

‘I lost control and Shino had to stop me, I could have killed him. I could have killed everyone.’ Lowering his head back to the pillow the sadness increasing in his worried mind ‘what am I going to do?’ Tears filled the bright blue eyes as they darkened several moments later he slept.

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Shino felt too hot, sweat making him feel sticky his hair damp against his head, more than hot he wanted to sleep if the voices were not growing louder by the minute he would go back asleep despite the heat. However, the voices continued to escalate, pushing his calm dreams away, he has so few calming dreams he would have enjoyed holding on to that one much longer. His brow furrowed trying to hold on to sleep his head began to ache, the pain radiating from his left temple and forking across his entire face, in a path inching down the right side of his neck. ‘Please be quiet, my head.’ His silent thought echoed in his mind so loud for a few moments he thought he was speaking.

Kiba: “You, really need to give it a rest Sasuke-chan. Shino would have kicked your ass with no arms or legs and half his head cut off.” Raspy snickers followed his words with his dog chuffing beside him.

Sasuke: “Shut-up dog breath, the more you run that stupid mouth the more I am convinced you head is full of fleas!” he retorted.

Neji: “You both are getting on my nerves, just give it a rest, I need to check on these two.” He shot fiercely. The sound of a key turning in the door and incoherent yells and shouting echoed in the hall.

Sasuke: “Explain to me again, why did you lock the door? You are a fucking Moron to leave Naruto alone with that psychopath?”

Neji: “Uchiha you are insulting the wrong person! Watch your tongue if you want to live to see another day!” The door banged open hitting the opposite wall Kiba and Akamaru laughing.

*‘My head is killing me, be quiet.’*

Kiba: “I guess he told you Sasuke-chan! I mean you do want to live to see another day!” he mocked.

Sasuke: “Grrrr, you filthy mutt!”

Neji: “I do not need your support! Why are you here anyway?”

Kiba: “I thought I would bug the bug guy see how he’s feeling.” He said casually.

Sasuke: “What a pathetic piece of crap you are.”

Kiba: “Your words are colorful, it makes me want to kick your ass worse than Shino did; you do remember that ass whipping?”

*‘Shut up and get out!!’*

Sasuke: “F***ING BRING IT ON YOU SON OF A BITCH!!”

Neji: “SHUT UP BOTH OF YOU! THERE WILL BE NOT FIGHTING!”


His head feeling as if it split, Shino opened his eyes behind the dark frames; squinting as the overhead light flashed brightly. The exchanges of words pounding in his ears disintegrate his remaining patience. Shino’s temper blazed as the self-realization that his lack of team management continues to contribute to the volatile situation within his unit. He also recognized he is ultimately responsible for the constructive and cohesive functions of his team, in other words, the actions of his comrades directly reflect on his abilities as a Team Leader. Moving with dream like stealth, sitting up on the bed vaguely noticing Naruto’s head sliding to the bed beside him Shino began to scream.

“SHUT THE FUCK UP, NOW!! IF ANYONE SO MUCH AS MOVES I WILL BEAT THEM TO DEATH!!”

His three teammates in front of the door froze, all staring with dumbfounded disbelief on their faces. Naruto jumped up his huge blue eyes looking up at the fuming leader; his heart racing from the shock of noise; apparently he did not awake from the noise his other comrades made, however at Shino’s bellowing sleep became the furthest thing from his mind.

Sitting on the edge of the bed sweat running down his face and neck glaring at the ninja blocking the open entry to the room Shino took in deep fortifying breaths. He pushed a hand through his stringy hair, wishing for a shower. Taking another deep breath trying to calm the storm brewing in his chest, “Neji close the door.” He said gruffly.

Neji quickly complied shutting out the rest of the village. He step carefully toward the team leader, Shino’s complexion improved however still appeared fatigued. “I have prepared the tea for you. Would you like some now?”

Shino nodded unable to voice the complicated emotions going through his head; if he continued to bellow at the ninja’s it would be, unlikely anyone will heed the advice. If he continues to pacify their behavior, the situation would continue at the present level. Deciding how best to reach these young men a grueling decision. Nodding his thanks to Neji taking the beverage draining the cup quickly and accepting another as the elite ninja stood with the decanter in hand.

“Thank you Neji, please everyone take a seat I would like to speak with you.” Draining half of his third cup of the potent chakra replenishing liquid he placed the cup on the beside table, shifting as Naruto left the bed behind him to sit next to Sasuke on the opposite bed. For several moments, it seemed ominous for the blue-eyed ninja to sit next to his nemesis; however, he pushed the thought out of his mind, focusing on the issues he wanted to address permanently.

“I will begin by offering an apology for my outburst, only for the volume not the content.” Fixing them with a dark scowl, no one reacted. “All of you are Konoha Ninja; the title means you are professional Shinobi and considered, even as children a devastating opponent. That being the situation not one of you outside of Uzumaki has conducted yourself as such.” Now the shifting began, primarily from Naruto blushing and twitching as Sasuke and Kiba glared at him contemptuously.

“I include myself as well.” Every eye flicked back on the dark frames. “I have not managed you guys effectively and because of my short comings we are face with a team that is ready to collapse from within utterly destroying ourselves in the process.” Lifting the remainder of his drink, he expected the Naruto to disagree.

“Shino that’s not true, you have done a good job taking care of us and cracking our heads when we need it.” Naruto blurted.

“Uzumaki, you only see what is instinctual to your way of the ninja.” He stared as the blue eyes grew wide his mouth clamping shut. “You understand what it means to be a comrade; also you are a reliable teammate that consistently puts the needs of the unit before your own desires. Furthermore, no matter what circumstances have occurred you will never turn their back on a friend.” His dark frames focused on the blue eyes both understanding the implication. Naruto look down at the floor his face darkening as several of his teammates glanced at him.

“From this point forward we will proceed with two rules, I will not pardon anyone who violates my method so listen closely.” He turned his gaze on each of them in turn, as he considered his wording. “The first is respect to everyone at all times, no more insults will be tolerated. If you have an issue with a comrade bring it to me and we will work together to resolve the problem. The second rule is significantly important because it influences the first and everything you will do as a ninja, discipline. You are all Shinobi.” He said firmly. “A weak or obtuse person will not receive the title. Show restraint in your dealings with teammates you are responsible for their lives regardless if the comrade is your friend. We must all work together to improve the functions within our team or the worst possible thing will occur. When faced with a life or death situation your life will be in the hands of a ninja who does not value your existence.” The ominous illustration making a deeper impact as every eye shifted slightly around. “I respect you all and I hope we will not need to address this issue again.”

A common acknowledgement met his final words as he rose from the bed gathering his things to take a shower his legs feeling weak as he carefully stepped around his teammates, now speaking in subdued voices with each other.

“Shino everything is ready for us to leave in the morning.” Sasuke confirmed. “The Sand agreed to escort us to the border of their land. Do you need me to do anything else?” Shino turned staring at the dark eyes, feeling pleased that Sasuke had followed through with his assignment.

“Thank you Uchiha, you should all make sure you get plenty of rest tonight we will leave early.” Tossing a change of clothes on the bed, he pulled on his black Yukata, tying it in front of him. “Uzumaki I need to speak with you alone.”

Naruto stop mid-sentence in his conversation with Kiba, staring at the back of Shino as he left the room leaving the door ajar for him to follow. Sasuke placed a hand on his shoulder as he made to follow halting him.

“Naruto, I need to talk to you.” Squeezing his shoulder lightly, a smile curling the corners of his mouth as his dark eyes zoned in on the blue pupils several inches below him. “I will wait here for you so hurry up.” Sasuke smiled, with a subtle wink.

Naruto trembled as the raven followed the smile with a quick lick of his lips; his blue eyes widening more. Returning a nervous smile, he nodded at the dark eyes heading toward the hall after Shino.

There was a soft knock at the door as Shino organized his change of clothing. “Enter.”

Naruto opened the door stepping in the mid-size bath gazing around at the modest fixtures and granite walls in warm shades of olive, tan and vanilla. “You wanted to speak with me?” He ventured leaning against the close door, as Shino did not speak only carefully unwrapping his left hand.

Shino kept his eyes on the roll he made while removing his hand from the bandages, his mind chewing on the thoughts of their fight trying to decide which question he wanted answered first. His hand free of bandages he reached in the shower stall turning on the spray, Naruto shifted uncomfortably. “You do not need to join me,” Shino said in a low voice, “I just don’t want our conversation heard, so please keep your voice down.” Finally lifting his gaze on the blue eyes, wanting to hold him however troubled by the confession Naruto made during their fight.

“What kind of conversation?” Naruto turned away from the door walking over to the sink counter staring at his own image in the mirror. Many of the bruises on his face appeared healed so he began to remove the wrappings on his head, trying to keep his eyes off the tall ninja behind him slowly pulling the black tee shirt over his head. However, as Shino release an audible moan the blue eyes widened in shock he turned to face the dark hair ninja, pushing his hair back out of his face wearily the violet eyes locking on him. ‘He always stares at me.’ Naruto at a loss for words as the deep black and blue bruises on the broad chest, and shoulders made him feel sick however as Shino turned to adjust the water temperature Naruto had difficulty suppressing a gasp as he noticed the large blue and red injuries covering half his back.

Shino turned around slowly to see Naruto glaring in astonishment he felt some relief, “You do not remember our fight?”

Naruto shook his head then lowered his face slightly, “It must have been a bad dream. Wow I nailed you.” He said jovially, turning back to the mirror trying to ignore Shino’s image finally casting his eyes down at the sink grabbing his toothbrush.

Speaking carefully, observing Naruto’s reactions Shino step closer to the blonde ninja. “It must have been a dream, your eyes were red.” Naruto continued to brush not looking at him, no reaction at all to the words. “You were stronger than I would ever have presumed; I have greatly underestimated you Uzumaki.” He flashed a smile that was not in his heart at the mirror, although Naruto blue eyes did not meet his.

Rinsing his mouth slowly, Naruto looked casually at his own eyes in the mirror speaking to Shino, “Well I told you before once I work out my chakra control I will be undefeatable I won’t loose to anyone not even you.” The blue eyes shifted on the violet eyes in the mirror.

Shino leaned against a wall near the sink wondering what was different, some how he expected a very different reaction from his lover, Naruto’s lack of concern eating at his conscience. “Well, tell me why during the fight you said you prefer Uchiha.” Finally, Naruto displayed a reaction as the smaller ninja turned to face him fully frowning.

The blue eyes blazed bright for an instant than darkened his jaw working before he spoke any words. “I said that to you? I don’t remember saying that.” His voice subdued the casually distant tone gone.

Standing up straighter looking intently into the blue eyes as he took a couple of steps closer, he wanted the truth. “You did, tell me why?”

“What part of I don’t remember saying that do you not understand?” Naruto said, with an edge to his voice.

“Tell me Naruto do you prefer Uchiha? It is said that *dreams* speak for the heart, so your so-called-dream made you attack me and caused you to say you *prefer* Uchiha Sasuke. Is that true or is there another reason you would speak those words to me?” Shino’s voice cut into Naruto, twisting an icy blade in his soul.

They both stared at each other, the air in the bathroom felt damp from the shower spay. “I do not want to say anything that will cause problems in our team.” Naruto began, the leader did not respond. Leaning back against the sink staring at Shino he sighed deeply. “Ever since you attacked Sasuke I have had these feelings for him. What Sasuke did to me no matter what anyone says, was partly my fault because I allowed him to join me. If I told the truth, I want him more now because he finally is showing me how much he cares. I have always desired a bond with Sasuke.”

“Why didn’t you tell me Naruto?” Shino’s voice a flat monotone as a hurricane of anger swelled inside him forcing his feet to retreat several steps away from the light hair ninja.

Naruto smiled deviously looking at the floor as he considered his words carefully timing his response to when he thought he has Shino’s undivided attention. Lifting his blues eyes to the angry violet glare he smirked, “You were convenient.” Indifferent smile back in place as Naruto crossed his arm over his lean chest staring at Shino with a slight smile on his lips. “You are a good looking guy after all and Sasuke can be a real bastard; especially while he is ignoring me. I thought that maybe it is time to look elsewhere, but what I felt with you was always about three feet below my chin if you get the meaning. What I feel for Sasuke is more.” He grinned at the shadowed face his pointy canines showing. “I hope this will not impact our team relationship, because after that great stuff you just said to me it makes me feel guilty telling you the truth. I’m not against having some fun sometimes, if you still want.” He looked up as if considering the issue deeply. “It depends if Sasuke will allow me to help out a friend once we start dating.” He smiled at Shino expectantly.

Shino did not respond his mind completely blank his own emotions buried in a place he could not determine. Only Naruto’s words and actions resonating in his ears, even the Kikai were silent. **..help out a friend… once we start dating..** His eyes fixed on a point between Naruto’s chin and abdomen; a hit in that location with the right amount of force would kill instantly. Closing his eyes as Naruto began to speak again.

“Well Sasuke is the jealous type he told me before we left on this mission he didn’t want to give up on the hope of having me. He more than likely will not go for me sharing my affection; well my body anyway; but if you want I’ll ask, what do you think?” He smirked again turning around to put away his toothbrush and wipe the sink. “We will always remain friends.” The blue eyes flashing on the darkened face pointing toward the floor.

“Please leave Uzumaki I will trust you not to speak to anyone about our involvement.” He dropped his long boxers as he stepped in the shower. “This will not impact our team, I hope you find happiness.” The cold water washed over his body easing the pain from the bruises. Hearing the door close he pressed his face hard to the granite wall his emotions erupting; an anguished sound choked from his throat. At that moment Aburame Shino never felt more pain in his entire tragic life.

Walking quickly in the room going for this clothes as the rest of the team sat chatting, Naruto quickly dressed, everyone turning to stare at him.

Neji watched amazed at his ability to move so quickly after the injuries he sustained. “Naruto it’s already late where are you going?”

“I need to get some air.” He said flatly, pulling on his sandals.

“I’ll go with you.” Sasuke said as he threw down the cards in his hand grabbing his jacket.

“No.”

Sasuke, Kiba and Neji stared at him, what did Shino say that had their blonde comrade in this state?

“Naruto, Shino looks like he had his ass handed to him, you got to tell me how you managed that with little more than a black eye.” Sasuke said with pride.

Freezing as he pulled on his jacket his eyes focused on the floor between the beds, “It was an accident nothing more.”

Sasuke and Kiba laughed aloud while Neji cast both disapproving glares. “Shut up both of you,” Neji chastised, “You didn’t see it so just mind your own business.” Naruto decided to leave before everyone started to yell again.

Stalking pass Sasuke who grabbed his shoulder to stop him; “Don’t be so modest, kicking that guy’s ass is the highlight of your life as a ninja. I knew the prick wasn’t strong.” He laughed. Sasuke completely unprepared for Naruto’s reaction, as the blonde ninja forced him back against the wall with a crash.

“Sasuke, learn what a comrade is you bastard! Mind your own dam business!” Naruto said dangerously, shoving his weight harder against the taller ninja before letting him go running out the room slamming the door behind him.

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V_V *sniff* it only gets darker, you will see. I hope you enjoy I will update as quickly as possible. Thanks for reading, *yes this really upsets me even though I made it, and its not real.* It feels real, I guess I get emotionally attached and then "feel" what my characters feel...Thanks again.