Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto or its characters. I don't get money either.
AN: Thank you for your review FromAfar, I appreciate it. I hope I don't disappoint with this story.
Chapter One
Seven weeks earlier: May 3rd
It was just a normal day as a metropolitan police detective. The squad room was overflowing with people; officers and criminals alike. It was a calming atmosphere for someone like me who hated the quiet with a passion. Noise always soothed me like nothing else could; it centered me, made me able to think, to work. I sighed and closed my eyes relishing in the chaos around me. And it was in that moment my partner chose to make an appearance, sighing as she dropped into her chair opposite of me.
“The chief wants to see us in her office when she’s finished with Kakashi; it looks important.”
“Hn.” My eyes remained closed as Sakura mumbled something about never getting enough time off. True each of the detectives in Homicide was over-worked and in serious need of vacation, but as the saying goes: crime never sleeps. So why should the officers who fight that crime get to sleep then?
“I’m not sure why, but it seemed a matter of great urgency?” The worry lines marred my partners face as I finally slid my eyes open to level a glare at her.
“When isn’t crime a matter of urgency? It probably has something to do with the scandal involving the Mayor. He seems to believe that we’re at fault because his affair became public; like that was anything to do with us? It was the incessant rag reporters who made it their mission to air it on every local newsstand and TV station within a thousand mile radius. You don’t see him going after them?”
“The Mayor’s problem was that we did nothing to prevent it from leaking. Like we could, it would have been a matter of public record eventually.” Sakura stated as we made our way to the chiefs office when Kakashi rushed out. “He should have known that when we busted that drug ring his mistress was involved in. I feel sorry for his wife, though. She seemed genuinely horrified her husband had been involved with such a woman.”
“Maybe she’ll learn not to get married then.” I couldn’t help noticing Sakura’s long suffering sigh. This wasn’t the first time we’d had the discussion of marriage and my total aversion to something so binding was always evident. Really, she should be used to it by now.
“Marriage isn’t the worst thing in the world Sasuke. Why are you so against it?”
“You know that I think shackling myself to one person and declaring that in front of god is nothing but a joke. No one ever thinks before they get married anymore. I will never be so foolish as to commit myself in such a form. If I find someone I want to spend the rest of my life with, I can do that without the institute of marriage.”
“You’re so cynical. Do you hate marriage in general or just the idea of declaring it in front of god?”
“I’m not being cynical. Marriage isn’t for everyone and maybe it shouldn’t be for anyone.” Sakura shook her head as she knocked on the Chiefs’ door and gained permission to enter.
~REVENGE~
The Chief was seated behind her desk with her fingers laced in front of her face, her honey brown eyes far away from her current location. She was a daunted person with volatility to match. Certainly not the person you wanted to cross; ever.
“Chief Tsunade?” Sakura asked gently.
“Sakura; Sasuke, I have a case for you.” She replied as she was pulled out of her reverie. “It’s different from the ones you’ve worked before.”
“Different how?” I will admit that my interest was piqued. I always enjoyed a good challenge.
“It started as a cold case 16 years ago and has recently become hot again.”
“That’s rare.” Sakuras’ jade green eyes narrowed.
“It’s so rare as to be almost non-existent. Our case originally began in the summer of 1995. It spanned a total of five months and culminated in 16 murders before suddenly going cold. It was a dark period at the time; for the police and the public. It was the year we had the flooding from that dam break and then the earthquake only three weeks later; not to mention the hostage situation at the bank that went terribly wrong.
“It became darker for the police when the Council refused to believe that these particular murders were the work of a serial killer and they subsequently hid the truth from the general public. There were some insightful reporters who noticed the consistency in murder victims and tried to print the story, but the Council caught wind of the exposé and squashed it with an iron fist, forcing the journalist to resign in the process. They convinced the editors that the murders couldn’t possibly have been committed by the same perpetrator, that it was a fluke. They fell for it.”
“Hn, idiotic civilians.” Really, did we have to hold their hands through everything; make them see the truth that was right in front of their eyes?
“Why is this relevant?” Sakura asked.
“Because you’ll need to know all the facts of the case if you have any hope in solving it, that's why.” Kakashi stated. He stopped to greet us as he handed a thick folder over to the chief. It was so thick that it could pass itself off as a book.
“I won’t sugarcoat this for you; it’s going to be difficult to work this case because of the Councils’ interference. They still refuse to believe it’s the work of a serial killer despite new evidence that proves otherwise.”
“When I got a call just over a month ago I thought it was just a coincidence. These things sometimes happen.” Kakashi stated cryptically. “But then there was another just two weeks later; I reluctantly put it down to a fluke again, but then another popped up two weeks after that. It was beyond a freak of nature; it had to be intentional.”
“What are you talking about exactly?” Sakura questioned, her nose crinkled in confusion. I had to admit that I was just as lost as my partner. Did Kakashi lose his mind? I wouldn’t be surprised if he had in this line of work.
“Let’s start at the beginning and not the end, but before we start I need you to do a pick-up.” Tsunade answered.
“Is this pick-up relevant to the case?” I asked.
“They are of considerable importance. You’ll find him at Konoha Elementary; his name is Naruto Uzumaki.”
“Will we need parental consent to bring him here?”
“That won’t be necessary Sakura. You’d better hurry; school lets out in an hour.”
~REVENGE~
It was decided swiftly that Sakura would drive as she grabbed her keys from her desk. I didn’t mind though; Sakura preferred driving just as much as I preferred to sit back and think as she weaved around traffic like a pro.
“What would an elementary student have to do with a 16-year-old killing spree? Could they be a recent witness?” She asked. I was wondering the same thing, but couldn’t fathom a guess as I shrugged my shoulders.
“It’s possible, but a recent witness to what exactly? How would something current be involved with events from the past; and if they were a witness why would they be at school? It wouldn’t make sense to send him there.”
“True; any sensible person…any sensible parent would keep their child at home if they witnessed a crime. This Naruto must be incredibly brave; if I wasn’t used to seeing half the things that I do I would hide in my closet for weeks refusing to come out.”
“I’ll never be used to seeing what I do and if that day ever arrives is the day I resign.” I replied. No, I would never be used to this job.
“I didn’t mean it that way Sasuke.” Sakura replied demurely, turning to stare at me as she cut in between two cars in the lane to the right of us, taking the next exit.
“I know that Sakura, but it doesn’t hurt to be reminded that with this type of work you need something to stay grounded. At least that’s what Kakashi always tells me.”
“Your cynical ass is all I need to stay grounded; but I’ll remember that in the future.” A smile lit my partners face as we continued our drive in silence, turning on the main highway.
This was the only time I enjoyed the quiet; when I was in a car in motion. Sakura thankfully was used to my ways and remained silent. We’d been partners for almost two and a half years now and knew each another for ten. We were in junior high together and entered the police academy on the same day. We graduated in the top two spots respectively and were fortunate to be hired at the same station. Since then we’ve solved every case we were handed. They ranged from the more serious cases of murder to the pettiest with two men fighting over coffee. I would never understand a persons’ drive to participate in criminal acts. The very thought was inconceivable to me. It must have been my upbringing where the law was so ingrained into my being it made me shudder to think of committing such a stupid act. Without knowing it I slid into a light dozing state.
“We’re here Sasuke.” Sakura nudged my side none too gently and forced a grunt out of me. She had some freakish strength for someone so petite and girly, but I would never tell her that. I valued my life.
~REVENGE~
Konoha Elementary was an old school. It was erected the same year as the city of Konoha was founded, over a hundred years prior, and was situated in the Ember District. It was one of the first buildings to be constructed with the honors of being first going to the police station. It was well maintained for a century old building; a testament to the respect it deserved. It was made of brick in the western colonial style with high windows and vaulted ceilings. Over the years it was modified to fit the current times and amenities were added such as electricity and air conditioning. It was this building that we walked into in search of the principal’s office and it wasn’t hard to find. We were greeted cheerily by the blonde haired receptionist as we entered the office.
“May I help you?” She flashed me a bright smile that revealed shocking white teeth.
“Detectives Haruno and Uchiha from the Metro Police; we’d like to speak to the Principal please.”
“Of course you are.” She replied sweetly, completely ignoring my partner and simpering at me. Great, she was one of those women. I would never get away from them, they were everywhere! Sakura frowned at the bubbly receptionist as she made no move to inform him of our presence.
“It is a matter of great importance that we need to discuss with the Principal.” Sakura replied through gritted teeth forcing the blonde’s attention to her. The smile slid from her face as she stated coolly.
“The door is to your left, Ma’am. Be sure to knock before entering.”
“Who are you calling Ma’am you heifer!” I inwardly groaned as Sakura’s temper flared. This always happened when we were together. It wasn’t that Sakura was envious of the attention lavished on me, but how vain and frivolous the women acted. She was just as annoyed by it as I was.
“I’m no heifer, you billboard brow!” The blue-eyed receptionist shot back. She rose swiftly to her feet expecting a fight.
“What did you say, pig?”
“Why you…!”
“That’s quite enough Ino.” The reprimand was gentle as it echoed through the small office, but commanded instant compliance. We turned to spot a man with long white hair and red tattoos running the length of his face leaning against the doorway. He didn’t look like he belonged in a school much less running one.
“Sorry sir.” Ino apologized lowering her head in shame.
“Can you kindly take this folder up to Miss Anko, Ino? She’s expecting it.” I watched as Ino grabbed the folder and bustled out of the office brushing against me as she passed. Sakura growled, but didn’t push it as we returned our attention to the man in front of us. “I’m the Principal of Konoha Elementary, the names Jiraiya.” He extended his hand out for a shake.
“Sasuke Uchiha.” I stated as I shook his hand firmly.
“Sakura Haruno.” As my partner reached out to shake Jiraiya’s hand he bent down and placed a soft kiss instead. Sakura blushed and retracted her hand slowly.
“I’ve been expecting you; Tsunade called and informed me of your impending arrival. You’ll find Naruto in room 601, but I warn you not to interrupt the lesson. I take education seriously and will not tolerate distractions that disrupt the flow of learning.”
“You needn’t worry about us becoming a distraction.” Sakura affirmed a blush still stained on her cheeks.
Jiraiya nodded as we turned to leave the office and work our way through the halls of the elementary school, dodging kindergarteners running down the halls on their way back from the restroom. The teacher smiled in apology as she ushered her students back to their room. Overall, it didn’t take us long to find room 601 in the rectangular brick school, all we had to do was follow the room numbers that guided our way. I took the initiative and knocked firmly on the open door watching as 28 pairs of eyes shot up to stare at me.
“Yes?” The question was thrown out from among the group of students. I scanned the area looking for the speaker who would obviously be the teacher and locked onto eyes of the most peculiar blue I’d ever seen. They belonged to a man who was crouched down in the process of helping the little girl with an assignment. He was tan as far as the eye could see and had the sunniest blonde hair I’d ever witnessed on a human being. The color of sunshine was almost blinding. He had the most peculiar markings on his cheeks though; they almost resembled whiskers. But instead of marring his looks, they seemed to define them. I tried to speak only to find that my voice had deserted me in the face of such raw beauty. He stood up from the desk and raised a slender eyebrow in question.
“Yes?” He repeated.
“Hi, I’m Sakura Haruno and this is my partner Sasuke Uchiha. We work with the Metro Police Department.” She replied a little breathlessly. Clearly I wasn’t the only one affected by this teacher’s stunningly good looks.
“It’s nice to meet you?” The blonde replied slowly; skeptically.
“We’ve been sent to escort Naruto Uzumaki to the station.” My voice seemed to have found its home again and I thanked god for that. The class burst into giggles as their teacher eyed me suspiciously. I frowned.
“What do you want with him?”
“That’s a private matter that doesn’t concern you.” I drawled.
“Really?” He laughed.
“Yes!”
“Do you know who this Naruto is?” The blonde asked slyly. I frowned again. What was this guys’ problem and what was with all the questions? He may be beautiful to look at, but he was also annoying.
“Not particularly, no.” I stated through clenched teeth. The blonde smiled devilishly at my comment.
“Oh, so you were sent to retrieve this Naruto and you have no idea what he looks like?”
“Apparently not.” I ground out. It irritated me that this guy was teasing me and in front of children no less. I just wanted to retrieve the boy and be on my way; not locked in some stupid, childish battle with a gorgeous grade school teacher. Wait did I just admit that to myself? Whatever, his looks weren’t the problem it was his attitude. And didn’t Tsunade say we wouldn’t have a problem brining him to the station?
“Hmm, then you have a problem.” The teacher stated as the class released giggles once again. I’m glad someone found this whole situation amusing because I certainly didn’t.
“And what problem would that be?”
“I’m glad you asked, Mr. Uchiha. You see its still 15 minutes before the end of the school day and I’m reluctant to release him into your custody, especially when I don’t have a valid reason for doing so except that he’s wanted there. And since you refuse to tell me why he’s wanted there you’ll have to wait until the end of class. So if you don’t mind I would like to get back to my lesson plans while I still have time to teach it.” He replied cheerfully. The class erupted into louder fits of giggles. I scowled at the teasing man; unaware of Sakura trying to stifle her own laughter.
“Don’t let me be in your way.”
“Oh, I won’t.” He remarked with a grin, as he turned his back on us and continued where he left off.
Sakura and I exited the room and took up posts just outside the door. I could still hear the blondes’ voice wafting from the classroom as he talked about the ancient Greek civilization and their various gods and goddesses.
“This was a waste of time.” I muttered.
“It wasn’t a waste. As he said we’ll have Naruto when the school day ends.”
~REVENGE~
It wasn’t long before the bell was rung, signaling the end of school day. Kids rushed from their classrooms and cluttered the narrow hallways in their furor to be free. It was complete chaos around me and I found it calming me instantly. I felt ready to do battle with the infuriating blonde on the other side of the door again. I pushed off from the wall and re-entered the nearly empty classroom. Only a few students were lingering and I presumed the only boy left to be Naruto. The girls left in a rush of giggles and blushes as they passed me. I couldn’t get away from them even at such a young age!
The blonde looked up from his desk and met my charcoal eyes with a playful smirk. “Back again?” My heart fluttered at the challenge he shot me and I grinned back. I accepted his challenge.
“Did you think that was enough to get rid of us? You’ll need to try harder than that.” I was met with a soft chuckle from the teacher.
“If I had wanted you gone then you would have known it. In fact you wouldn’t be standing here otherwise.”
“Hn.”
“What an impressive vocabulary you have Mr. Uchiha.” The blonde quipped.
“Hn.”
“You must be a man of simple words. Do actions speak for you?”
“Hn.”
“Umm…I’m still here you know!” The long forgotten boy mouthed as his teacher opened his mouth to speak again.
“Oh, I’m sorry about that Konohamaru. Have your uncle sign these forms and return them tomorrow.” The teacher beamed as he passed the forms to the brown-haired youth. I narrowed my eyes as the boy exited the room, grumbling something about flirting and getting a room as he went by. If that boy wasn’t Naruto then who was? It’s certainly not the teacher, right?
“Naruto?” My partner asked tentatively. His cerulean eyes swam with mischief as his voice betrayed laughter.
“Yes?”
“You’re Naruto Uzumaki?” I growled out.
“I am. Now will you please tell me what this is about?”
“We’re not exactly sure at the moment. Our Chief asked us to pick you up.” Sakura turned puzzled eyes to me.
“Oh, if Tsunade sent you then it must be important.” Naruto reasoned.
I rolled my eyes at that; it certainly was important when the Chief of Police wanted you in her office. But if I was him I wouldn’t call her by her name…wait, how did he know her name? He couldn’t know her, right?
“You know the chief?” I barely contained my astonishment as I waited for his answer; it was not an Uchiha approved emotion after all.
“I should, since she’s my grandmother.”
I was thrown for a loop. I don’t know how I managed to maintain my outward appearance, but I was relieved that I didn’t reflect any emotion that would betray me. Still, how was that even possible; they looked nothing a like? Was the chief really that old?
“She’s your grandmother?” Sakura let out a surprised murmur. I was happy to note I wasn’t the only one shocked by his comment, odd as it was. I didn’t recall ever hearing the Chief talk about having family.
“In a roundabout way; she’s actually my fathers’ aunt.”
“Oh, that makes sense. I think?” Sakura mumbled.
“We really should be on our way, don’t you think?”
“Agreed.” Naruto beamed flashing Sakura a dazzlingly white smile and completely ignoring me, the one who spoke.
~REVENGE~
It took us over an hour to return because of the burgeoning school traffic in the area. Chief Tsunade wasn’t thrilled by our tardiness despite our valid reason for being so. She stood glaring at us before she turned her attention to the hyper grade school teacher. I’ll give him credit; he didn’t flinch at the glare he received. Instead he stood there grinning stupidly at the woman in front of him. She frowned before exhaling. “Brat!”
“Granny!”
“I’m not your granny, so stop calling me that.” But her voice lacked conviction and her mouth was close to curving into a smile. Who was this ‘Naruto’ that could produce a near smile on a face that only ever glowered?
“It’s been awhile. If work wouldn’t keep me so busy I would visit you more often.”
“It’s fine, brat. I think it’s better this way anyway. You should live your life a little without my interference.”
“I’m certainly doing that, but what did you want to see me for? All you had to do was call; you needn’t have sent detectives to fetch me, you know.”
Tsunades honey brown eyes grew sorrowful. “It wasn’t a casual visit that I wanted you here. This is very serious; of a sensitive nature, and I couldn’t discuss it over the phone.”
“Ok?” Naruto was confused, I could see that by the furrowing of his brow and the confusion etched on his face.
“Naruto…,” The chief paused, biting at her thumb. That was something she only did when she was concerned. It permeated the room and I couldn’t help feeling the same way. “Let’s start at the beginning; then you’ll understand why you’re here.”
The young teacher nodded as he sank into a chair opposite from Tsunade, I remained standing with Sakura. I was more comfortable that way and I settled easily into a passive listening mode as the Chief started. “It started 16 years ago on July 4, 1995. I was working as a lieutenant in one of the smaller surrounding stations at the time and that night I was called out to the home of a local Lobbyist in the Lightning District, where he and his wife was discovered murdered in their living room. There were ligature marks on their wrists and ankles indicating they’d been bound before being strangled. Nothing was missing from the home and there were no signs of forced entry, so it was concluded it wasn’t a robbery attempt. Their name was Nii and they left behind a 12-year-old daughter.
“Two weeks later to the day I was sent to the home of the Kiri family in the Niagara District where another man and women were found deceased. Both were high-profile Lawyers; most notable for working on the opposite sides of the justice system. Again there were no signs of forced entry and again it was concluded no robbery was committed. The Kiri’s were found shot to death in their bedroom and left behind a 13-year-old son.
“Another two weeks passed when I was next summoned to the home of the Iwaga family in the Terra District. The wife was a judge in the juvenile court and the husband was working his way up the corporate ladder at a now defunct textiles plant. They were found stabbed near the front entrance to their home and again no sign of a robbery gone wrong. They also left behind their 13-year-old son.
“Again two weeks passed and I was brought to the home of the Tsuchigumo’s who lived in the Niagara District. The husband was running for the open Councilor’s seat at the time. His wife was currently unemployed and worked in the home caring for their young child. Their cause of death is unknown. When I arrived the house was engulfed in flames and firefighters were on the scene. It was immediately ruled an arson on sight by the paraphernalia left on location.
“It took over 12 hours to contain the fire; 12 hours before the bodies were found. Their remains were too charred to pinpoint an exact cause of death, but we do know they were not shot or stabbed; beyond that is a mystery. They were found in their dining room which was also the starting place for the fire. They left behind a ten-year old boy.
“Another two weeks went by and I was standing in the home of the Taki family once again within the Niagara District. The wife was a member of the smaller Niagara Police Department and the husband was a sports columnist with the Konoha Daily. They were murdered by a lethal injection of heroin and were discovered in their kitchen. If it wouldn’t have been for the fact that they were tied up, we’d have believed it an accidental over-dose. They left behind their nine-year old daughter.
“I was brought to the home of the Yuki family two weeks after that where they resided in the Windstorm District. The husband was a local firefighter and the mother was a teacher at Konoha Elementary. They were found beaten to death in their backyard. They left behind their ten-year old son.”
“Then another two weeks passed. This time I was in the home of the Uchihas.” Tsunade paused and heaved an almighty sigh.
She stared directly into my charcoal eyes looking for any kind of recognition there and when she found none her brow knit in frustration. I remained impassive, despite the fact I couldn’t have been more stunned. It was hard to comprehend that my family was included on this grizzly list. Yet, I wasn’t about to let her know that it affected me. I was only seven at the time of my parent’s murder; although it was news to me that the perpetrator had been a mass murderer. So I refused to show any emotion as my chief continued to frown at me. That would have been a display of weakness and Uchiha’s were anything but weak. I also refused to acknowledge my partner’s shock.
“Fugaku was Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department and Mikoto was a homemaker. They were found in their home gym with multiple cuts to their bodies. Some were shallow and others were deeper; the cause of death was ruled exsanguination. It wasn’t a fast death; they suffered horribly and unnecessarily for hours. They left behind their two children; a twelve and seven-year old son.”
“But just a mere two weeks later, I was in the home of the Namikaze’s.” At that the blondes’ head shot up. This must be his family and that was why he was here. I should have known. “I should say right now that this was the only deviance from the other murders. That until that day every murder had been committed on a Monday and were all discovered within the same day. The Namikaze’s murder began two hours before midnight on Monday and they weren’t discovered until Tuesday morning at eight.”
“Minato was the sitting Governor of Konoha and Kushina was a Goodwill Ambassador. They were…” Tsunade swallowed thickly before continuing. “They were tortured for hours. Every one of the previous known methods of murder was used on them excluding the Tsuchigumo murders, for obvious reasons. But they didn’t stop with just them. They attacked their son too.” Tsunade stared at Naruto intently, but he was refusing to look at her now. I leveled the back of the blonde’s head with an intense stare. Why was this case still open if there was an eye-witness to the crime? My blood started to boil with pent-up anger as the blonde sat unmoving. I almost missed his quiet murmur over the sound of my heart beating against my eardrums.
“You know I have no recollection of what happened that night.”
“And that’s not why I brought you here, Naruto. I know you’ve repressed those memories and I don’t blame you. I wouldn’t want to remember either, but let me finish my story. Now, just over five weeks ago Kakashi was called out to a homicide where a woman was discovered badly beaten and left for dead in her front yard. She was rushed to the hospital, but later died from her extensive injuries. Three weeks ago Kakashi was called out again; this time they found a young man strangled to death in his living room. Now, even though it’s out of the time line I’ve just presented to you; only two days ago Kakashi found a man overdosed on heroin in his bedroom. The coroner’s report determined that he’d been dead approximately a week before being discovered. The victims names were Yugito Nii, Yagura Kiri, and Han Iwaga.”
I suddenly felt chills run up my spine. This wasn’t happening; how could it be happening? What kind of sick and twisted game was this person playing? Was it even the same person? I turned to see Sakura abashed, with her hand raised over her mouth.
“I don’t believe it?” She whispered.
“It really is a shocking situation that this person waited 16 years to strike again and against the same families. It’s unfathomable. This is why I had you come here Naruto. Because of a consistency in victims and an accelerated time line I’m assigning you a protection detail. Now, here comes the difficulty I was talking about,” She pinned me and Sakura with a hard look before turning back to Naruto.
“The Council refuses to believe there is a serial killer on the loose and because of that I can’t give you the best protection I have to offer, but I can offer the next best thing. Sasuke is going to watch your back just as much as you’re going to be watching his. It was the only compromise I could find considering the circumstances. Sasuke, I know you have racked up considerable vacation time and you are going to use it.” Tsunades eyes narrowed threateningly at me as I was about to voice my protest. I did not need protection. “I am entrusting you with an important person in my life and if anything happens to him you will regret it for the rest of your life.”
“What about the others?” Naruto asked softly. I was overtaken by the genuine concern from the blonde and it astounded me that he wasn’t thinking just about his own life, but the lives of others too. I liked his morals.
“Kakashi is working on it. We have to convince the potential victims of the immediate threat and gain their cooperation. We can’t force them to take us seriously and we’re limited on how we can protect them. The Council has seen fit to decrease our budget this year; their retribution for the scandal the Mayor produced. It’s a fail-safe in protecting their reputation by undermining the police force. We did our jobs and the public sees fit to punish us for it; but you don’t have to worry about any of that. All you have to worry about is staying safe.”
“I can’t leave work though.” Naruto blurted out. His hand came up to rub at the back of his neck as Tsunade glared at him. He had balls, I’ll give him that. Not many people could withstand the Chiefs glare.
“Oh, yes you will. Jiraiya has already arranged for a substitute.” I’ll even admit I admired the blondes’ courage as he shook his head in denial, flat-out refusing.
“I can’t leave my students.”
“I get that you’re a teacher, but you need to think about yourself for once. You’re in danger from a lunatic here. Do you really want to drag your students into this?”
I watched cerulean eyes shine with fear at the possibilities, his mind conjuring scenes only he could imagine. He quietly agreed to the protection detail and good for him, but I wasn’t convinced I needed it. I went to open my mouth again when Tsunade focused her attention on me. She had the harshest glare I had ever seen. Shit, but was I afraid of this woman. Add that to the list of unapproved Uchiha emotions.
“Then we’re all in agreement here. Naruto you will return home and grab what you’ll need. You won’t be staying there; Sasuke you will do the same. I have a place that you can stay at for as long as I need you too. When you have your things you will return here for further instruction; you stay together at all times and preferably in the same room.” I nodded my affirmation. I would just have to indulge the irrational woman for the time being.
“What’s your address?” The blonde took a moment to comprehend that I was directing a question at him. He blinked a few times and turned to stare at me, his head cocking to the side.
“Huh?” He muttered.
“That’s such a smart answer from a teacher; your address dobe. Where do you live?”
It felt nice to turn the tables on him after what I went through in his classroom. I almost smirked when his face swelled in anger at my insult, I refused to care though. I wanted to get this done and over as fast as I could. I had more important things to do than to babysit the Chief’s grandson; good-looking as he was.
“Don’t call me that” Naruto growled. “And what business is it of yours where I live?!”
“Clearly for a teacher you don’t comprehend instructions well. We. Have. To. Go. Together. Dobe.”
“Well, I refuse to let a bastard like you into my home and I said don’t call me that!”
“Too bad, you’re stuck with me. Now give me your address?!”
“No.”
“I’m not playing here! Give me your damn address!” I was slowly losing patience with him. God, why did he have to be so insufferable?!
“1010 Kyuubi Lane.” Tsunade spit out growing frustrated at our bickering. She was rubbing at her temples…never a good sign in my book; but then anything to do with the Chief was not a good sign.
“Granny!? Why did you tell him that? I don’t want him there.”
“Shut it Naruto and do as I say!” Naruto swallowed thickly and quietly backed down. I could see the palpable fear in her eyes as she stared at him. Anger and rage were apparently lost on him, but fear and pain were not. This Naruto was an interesting individual.
“We’ll go to your place first.” I mumbled as I started for the exit. The blonde followed slowly behind me and slid in to the passenger’s side of my car without a word.
~REVENGE~
The blondes’ apartment had to be one of the nicest places I’d ever been in. It was situated in one of the most beautiful places in Konoha; the revitalized Maelstrom District. The Maelstrom District was situated within the old Whirlpool District and the only difference between the two was that Maelstrom had undergone extensive reconstruction to remedy its failing infrastructure. To commemorate the reconstruction it was unanimously decided to rename that part of the town and keeping with tradition, gave it a synonym of Whirlpool.
I stepped inside the dobes apartment on the top floor and paused in utter amazement. It was situated on the top floor of the apartment building, was completely square with a high vaulted ceiling, and boasted an open concept. When you first walked in you were met with open the living room, your eyes traveling straight back in to the modern kitchen with its high-end appliances. Right above the kitchen was a loft that housed the bedroom. It was currently hidden behind shoji screens with a Sakura Blossom pattern and when they were pulled open would look unhindered upon the living space below. I instantly envied the dobe for such a beautiful space.
I followed Naruto with my eyes as he made his way up the stairs to his loft to collect his belongings. Convinced of his current safety I took the chance to continue looking around the small space and marveled at the durable hardwood floor throughout. I could only guess that the hardwood covered the bedroom floor as well. In all it wasn’t perfection with the stacks of papers littering the coffee table and dishes piled in the strainer waiting to be put away, but it looked lived in, and inviting, and warm. I liked it and could easily see myself living in such a place.
“I won’t take long.” The blonde muttered from above as he set to work packing. It only took 20 minutes to pack everything he thought he would need before we were on the road again, traveling down the highway at a comfortable speed of 65 mph. I kept stealing quick side glances at the silent man seated in my passengers’ seat. He looked preoccupied and I thought I should be as well. I mean, it wasn’t every day that a serial killer was after your life, but I couldn’t muster the energy to be so. It didn’t seem worth it to me.
~REVENGE~
15 minutes later we pulled up to a white mansion in the wealthier part of town situated within the Ember District. The blonde stepped out of the car staring in awe at the two-story building standing regally in front of us.
“This is your house?” He asked breathlessly.
“You look surprised, dobe. Yea, this is my house.” I couldn’t hide my repulsion to the place and if I was honest with myself I really didn’t want to. This was my house, but certainly not my home. It hadn’t been home in many years. Azure eyes regarded me with mild shock a look of pain flashing quickly before disappearing.
“You don’t like it here.” Clearly he got my point because that wasn’t a question.
I turned to look at the miserable form that dared to call itself a house. I didn’t want anything to do with the place and if I could I would have been long ago been rid of it, but it wasn’t meant to be. “I hate it here dobe. I would sell it if I could, but the family Will makes it impossible. It has to remain in the family with at least one member residing in it, or I would have rented it out by now.”
“Oh.”
“Yes, well don’t wander about inside. I don’t want to have to come looking for you when you get lost.”
“I wouldn’t get lost.” The blonde bristled in indignation. I cocked in eyebrow, incapable of believing his boast.
“You fail to realize how large it is. It’s a maze inside. Just stick by me and you’ll be fine.”
“Whatever.”
~REVENGE~
I made my way through the desolate house looking over my shoulder periodically to be sure the dobe was still following my lead. I didn’t really feel like hunting him down today and twice I had to slow my pace so the blonde wouldn’t become hopelessly lost. He looked like a kid in a candy story as he turned his head left and right, trying to take in as much as possible. I smirked at his avid interest of my home.
I admit that it really was something to look at, although I hated everything about this house: from the lavishly decorated dining room with priceless paintings, to the ballroom with its beautiful marble flooring and golden chandeliers, to the multitude of decorated bedrooms fit for royalty, right down to the various other family antiques adorning the walls. There was expensive oak flooring throughout the house, the exceptions being for the bathrooms and ballroom with their marble flooring. In all it wasn’t a warm place to live; sure it had perfect heating and warm earth tone painted walls but it felt more like a mausoleum to me. This place no longer held any happiness, the heat draining away that horrible day.
We passed silently by the library with built-in cedar bookshelves that housed many rare first editions by long deceased writers; just more family heirlooms I was forced to keep. Next to the library, strangely enough, was the music room. Why the music room was situated next to a room known for its quiet atmosphere was lost on me. It housed only two instruments; pianos, one black and one white. I still remember the long hours spent with my brother learning to play and the tyrannical music teacher that made my life hell. I was only four and he expected me to be able to play Mozart and Beethoven with perfection. I almost shuddered at the memory.
“You really go all out.” The blonde let out a slow whistle.
“My family was very prominent for many generations so naturally they collected antiques along the way. I had nothing to do with it, I just inherited it.”
“Your collection is quite extensive and rare, but you don’t seem happy with it? Why is that?”
“It’s just meaningless stuff that I’m forced to keep. It holds no value to me.”
“You’re looking at it all wrong. Do you realize how priceless this stuff is?”
“Clearly I don’t think of everything in dollar amounts.” I snapped out. I hated being here longer than was absolutely necessary and it always made me edgy. I naturally took my frustration out on the nearest person and that just happened to be the unfortunate dobe. The blonde suddenly stopped and presented me with a look of utter shock before he swelled with anger.
“I could care less about their monetary value! I meant that it’s a reminder of your ancestors and all their past accomplishments. They’re your memories, but I guess you’re too self-centered to realize that.”
I stopped short and turned to stare fully at the blonde’s accusing eyes. I honestly never thought of it in that way before and I suddenly felt ashamed of my poor comments. It was just another unapproved Uchiha emotion; the third time today! What was happening to me?
“I never thought of it in that way. I’ll try to keep that in mind from now on.” I conceded.
“I’ll hold you to it.” The blonde replied with a stubborn resolve.
~REVENGE~
It took about 45 minutes to collect both belongings and make it back to the station. Where we went from here I didn’t know and I didn’t enjoy the idea that I wouldn’t be allowed to participate in the investigation either. The dobe seemed to be coping well with the fact that he wouldn’t be stepping foot in a classroom anytime soon.
It made me curious how the son of a Namikaze would choose to be a teacher and why he would go by the name of Uzumaki? I never really gave much thought to what I wanted to be. Being a police officer ran in the blood; and if you don’t count Itachi, my brother; our whole family was officers of the law in some form or other. Itachi took the strange route and went into law school. I decided that was a good thing, you never knew when you would need a lawyer.
“I’ve set up a ‘safe house’ for the two of you. When you get there you don’t leave for anything unless Kakashi or I call you. Keep out of trouble, watch the others back, and try to enjoy your vacation. Here’s the address of the place you’ll be staying. There is a rental car waiting for you in the garage. You’ll have to leave your car here, Sasuke. It will be taken well care of in your absence. Now get out of my sight, I have work to do.” Chief Tsunade snapped with no real malice behind her words.
“What about Itachi?” I asked.
“Itachi has been handled. DA Yamato was adamant about his protection and put him in a position where he couldn’t refuse, especially when he was informed that you would have protection too. It was decided that he wouldn’t join you. So he’s going to be hidden in plain sight and continue to work. By the way, Itachi wasn’t happy about not being told where you were going.”
“Hn. He’ll get over it.” I didn’t need my brother hovering over me, especially now.
Tsunade nodded her head and shooed us away again. We exited her office and made our way to the elevator. As we stepped inside the dobe unfold the slip of paper and read the address to our new home for however long. He eyed it suspiciously before handing it to me without a word. I raised my eyebrows at her choice of ‘safe house’ as the silver doors of the elevator contracted revealing the darkened parking garage. I hit the button on the key ring to identify the rental, the car beeping to alert us to its location. I crumpled the paper and slid effortlessly into the compact car, Naruto following on the passengers’ side. I released a sigh and backed out of the parking space.
“I can’t believe something like this is necessary.” Naruto whispered.
“I can’t say that I’m used to it with all that I see on a daily basis; but I never thought I would be on the receiving end of a protection detail.”
“Have you done this before?”
“Only twice before, dobe; and both ended successfully within a week or two. But this time; it looks like it could be awhile.” I felt it best to lay out everything on the table. Something told me that hiding anything crucial from the dobe would be a mistake that I would live to regret.
“Awhile; how long is awhile? I can’t be without work for that long; I have students that need me! And don’t call me a dobe!”
“I agree with you dobe. I can’t be without work either.” I was shot with a curious glare as the dobe asked slowly.
“What are you thinking?”
“That I shouldn’t stay away from the investigation and leave our fates to chance. Chief Tsunade never said I couldn’t work independently and that’s exactly what I intend to do, until I solve this.”
“Until
we solve this, but how will
we do that without any access to the evidence?”
“Hmm, Kiba owes me a favor. He’ll get me whatever I want and if he doesn’t I have Shikamaru to fall back on. Kiba works in Vice, so there shouldn’t be a problem gaining the paperwork
we need.” I threw him a smirk. It was interesting that he was willing to help and I wasn’t about to complain; I would need all the help I could get.
“OK, so how do you work an investigation with just paperwork? We both promised Granny Tsunade that we wouldn’t leave the ‘safe house’.”
“We can figure that out later, dobe.”
“Don’t call me that!”
“Hn…dobe.”
“You are such a bastard.”
“So I’ve been told, dobe, so I’ve been told.” I threw another smirk at the frustrated blonde as he sat back in his seat crossing his arms.
“I don’t like you!” He snapped.
Ouch, now that hurt! It was a new feeling not to have someone like me. I never really had anyone not like me before. I was used to the constant attention I got from women and the occasional man. I’d dealt with it my whole life, but this blonde was an enigma. He had me puzzled. He wasn’t taken in by my good looks like most people were. In fact he seemed to care less about my appearance and he didn’t have a problem guarding his words around me. I liked that.
All the women that I came into contact with would play the shy card and I hated it. They would vocalize their declarations of undying love and had no problem latching on to me like a leech; in public no less, but then they would turn shy the moment they thought they had my attention. No woman ever held my attention except for Sakura. After her strange ‘I love Sasuke’ phase, we’d become closer as friends, which I was thankful for. She had taken it upon herself to be my goalie and protect me against the torrent of women that surround most of my waking existence. It was tiring work. Maybe that was why I preferred men?
~REVENGE~
Those thoughts occupied me until we checked in at the hotel that was to be our ‘safe house’. I was skeptical that this was the best place for us and even though we checked in under a pseudonym, I couldn’t help thinking that this wouldn’t deter a determined murderer. They waited 16 years, for some unknown reason, to murder the children of their victims. No, a pseudonym wasn’t going to stop them.
We rode the elevator up to the seventh floor and walked the short distance to our door. Room 723, I almost laughed, but that wasn’t Uchiha approved. I opened the door and stepped inside, dropping the luggage on the couch to the left. I gave the room a once over and declared it Uchiha appropriate. It certainly wasn’t the worst place we could stay.
There was a small living area devoted to watching TV and relaxing with two end tables on each end of the sofa and a desk for personal affairs. A little further passed the living room was a small kitchenette with a refrigerator, microwave, oven, and a sink. There was a small kitchen table that seated two hanging off the small kitchen. Just after that were a small, but adequate bathroom, and then the bedroom. There were two beds separated by a bedside table and facing the one dresser with a vanity mirror attached. We would have to share that since there wasn’t a closet.
I took a step towards the window in the bedroom and pulled the curtains wide to reveal a balcony. I stepped out into the crisp night air and looked around. Directly below us was a sparkling swimming pool that looked a lot like one of those shoe prints you’d find in old episodes of Scooby Doo. I turned to look at my new roommate who just walked out onto the balcony to join me.
“It looks nice. Do you think it would be safe to go swimming or is that an unapproved protection detail activity?” He laughed.
“It shouldn’t be a concern when the pool opens. As long as we’re not alone and in full daylight there’s no problem; so no skinny dipping from you.”
“Like I would do something so devil-may-care…” But I noticed the twinkle in his blue eyes and decided I would need to watch myself closely around him.
