Adult-FanFiction.org : Naruto

Fate's Entwined	By : sasunaru16 Category: Naruto AU/AR > Yaoi - Male/Male Views: 2081 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own own Naruto or any of Masashi Kishimoto's characters. (Wish I did, but I don't.) Nor am I making any profit off of this story.

Chapter List
- 2
- 3
- 4
I do not own Naruto or any of the characters. All that belongs to Masashi Kishimoto.
Chapter 3
Naruto held in a wince as he stared at what was left of the man he had once met. Hachidai stared at the ceiling above him without blinking. His hands were tied down to the bed, where all he could do was clench them.
How in the world am I supposed to ask him about the attack?
I don’t know how but you have to. What if he really did see the kitsune and tells someone about it?
I know but shit. How? They had to tie him down so he wouldn’t attack the doctors who tried to heal him. How the hell do you talk to someone who doesn’t even notice the difference in being attacked and saved anymore?
Come on kit. What about that thing Sakura taught you? That would work.
Naruto’s eyes widened, but he tried to hold in his excitement so as not to startle Hachidai. Pulling out his journal he flipped to the page where he had written Sakura’s instructions. He gave it a quick scan before returning the journal to his jacket. Luckily the ingredients he needed to look for were not hard to find; he even still had some left over from the last time he had made it. Turning around he looked for a nurse and found Rokusuke watching him.
“Naruto, why do you look as he you had just discovered a gold mine?” Rokusuke asked.
“Ha ha funny.” Naruto made a sour face. “Anyway do you think you can help me find a nurse? I know how to ask Hachidai-san about the—” Naruto cut himself off and looked back at said man. Walking away from him, he signaled for Rokusuke to follow him.
“I know how to ask him about the attack. But I need some ingredients that hopefully this place has.” Naruto continued once again when further away from Hachidai.
“Really? But how?” Rokusuke asked in shock.
“I have a friend who is a medical-nin and she showed me a certain medicine that can calm someone enough to interr—I mean ask questions.” Naruto hoped Rokusuke hadn’t caught his blunder. But judging by Rokusuke’s raised eyebrow it may be hoping for much.
“Alright, as long as Hachidai-san is unharmed I will help.” At Naruto’s nod Rokusuke signaled for Naruto to follow him.
With Rokusuke and the nurse’s help they found the ingredients without a problem. Naruto was given permission to use the lab and had the mixture ready in no time. The only problem that Naruto seemed to be facing was shaking off Rokusuke. The man would just not leave Naruto alone. What if when talking about the attack Hachidai mentioned that what had attacked him was a kistune? He really wished Rokusuke would just leave!
“Rokusuke-san I have promised that the mixture would not harm him. You don’t have to worry about Hachidai-san. I don’t plan on harming him.” Naruto said, finally at his limit.
“Ah no, Naruto I know that. But as the leader of this village I need to know just as much as you do what happened in the mines. I need to know so I can protect Katabami.” Rokuske responded while staring at Hachidai.
Leader. He had said leader. When the hell had Rokusuke become leader of Katabami?!
“Um, Rokusuke-san. So when you say leader, you mean no one ever came to take care of the village after we left?”
“Well actually we established ourselves as a town rather than staying a village. That way we could have someone from here be a leader for a change. So far it’s worked out pretty well.” He looked at Hachidai. “Well it had been working out well.”
“Don’t blame yourself. While we hope for eternal peace and sometimes fight for it, it rarely happens. All we can do is keep trying, right?” Naruto asked as he picked up Hachidai’s head.
Rokusuke stared at him for a moment before smiling and nodding. His smile vanished as soon as Hachidai started to fight Naruto off. Rokusuke helped hold Hachidai’s head while Naruto forced the mixture down Hachidai’s throat. Frowning, Naruto pinched Hachidai’s nose so the man would drink the mixture rather than spit it out. As soon as all the mixture was downed Naruto released Hachidai. Rokusuke stopped holding the other man down but didn’t remove his hands. Even though he was only trying to help, Naruto still felt guilty for forcing Hachidai to drink the mixture.
When Rokusuke sat down, still holding onto Hachidai’s arm, Naruto sat down as well. It looked as if Hachidai had fallen asleep. As far as Naruto knew and as far as he had seen the mixture didn’t make people sleep. He hoped that was still the case. Before he could reassure Rokusuke, Hachidai groaned and opened his eyes. For a spilt second he tensed before turning to look at Naruto. Not sure what to do, Naruto stared at him for a split second before he grinned.
Hachidai frowned and stared at Naruto as if he had lost his mind. But then the frown suddenly turned into a tired smile.
“You’re that loud blond ninja who came and helped us a long time ago aren’t you?” Hachidai’s asked, his voice hoarse.
Blushing, Naruto nodded and rubbed the back of his head. Hachidai nodded as if confirming something and turned his head to look at Rokusuke. With his right arm he reached over, placed his hand over Rokusuke’s and squeezed it.
“It’s good to hear your voice my friend.” Rokusuke said quietly while smiling.
“If you say so. I sound horrible.” Hachidai winced. Rokusuke quickly helped Hachidai drink some water.
“Thanks.” Hachidai coughed.
“Hachidai-san, Naruto hear has some questions to ask you. That is if you’re up to it?” Rokusuke spoke while glancing at Naruto.
Hachidai turned his head once again to look at Naruto and nod his consent. Naruto breathed a sigh of relief that he would be able to talk. However there was still the issue of Rokusuke’s presence. Of course he couldn’t ask him to leave though since he was the village—town’s leader. Taking a breath he removed his journal from his jacket.
“Hachida-san. I have spoken with several villagers already and have come across much information. Most of it was actually very coinciding which is very helpful. But the fact remains that no one has seen what is in there. That is, except for you.” Naruto paused to take in Hachidai’s reaction so far. Seeing that he seemed to remain calm he pressed on. “I have been told it has an ominous presence, it resides towards the back of the mines, and that it only attacks when the sun begins to set. Does this information sound correct to you?”
“Yes but there’s more to the ominous presence.” Hachidai turned away from Naruto to stare at the ceiling. Before Naruto could ask he continued. “We knew that something had been in the mines. I was not there during the first real attack but I had been seen the threats it left. When we didn’t see any more damages we had thought it left so we continued to dig. It would only destroy the equipment and leave marks on the walls. Well we had finally figured out that it would only really threaten us if we stayed there after the sunset. Then one day Iwari-san went back into the mines because he said he had left something. I told him to let it go because of what was back there. He refused to listen. Worried, Fugaki-san and I went after him. When we found him he didn’t say anything as we called out to him. He just stood there staring at something. Following his line of sight, I saw it.” Hachidai began to cough again. He only stopped coughing when Rokusuke helped him drink more water.
“Thank you.” Hachidai said hoarsely and Rokusuke nodded. Sighing Hachidai continued.
“Well we saw some of it. It was much larger than any man I have ever seen. Its eyes were so red it looked as if they were marbles of blood. And its body was the color of gold. At first it almost seemed as if was a statue. Until it moved. That was when everything went crazy. While I don’t feel any hatred towards the creature because I believe it may have only been protecting itself. However I know it is dangerous and cannot stay here. While I’m truly not sure what it was my guess would be it was some kind of large animal. But I have no idea what kind of large animal it could have been. I have never seen anything like it—” Hachidai started coughing again.
“You have talked too much. Here drink.” Rokusuke helped Hachidai drink some more water.
He doesn’t understand what it is that he saw. Naruto watched as Rokusuke helped Hachidai relax onto the hospital bed again.
No thankfully. However should they tell anyone who knows about yokai as Ranmaru does they may hunt it. Kurama sighed.
I wonder if I can convince Rokusuke—but then I would have to explain why it must be kept secret. Shit!
Calm down kit. Let us see first if the kitsune can even be reasoned with.
Right.
“Thank you Hachidai-san. I know that must have been difficult but I am grateful for your help.” Naruto stood up to leave.
“Naruto,” Hachidai called. Naruto turned back to him. “I truly don’t hate the creature. In fact I find myself pitying it. Men tend to attack what they don’t understand whereas animals do not. I believe it was only protecting itself. Should you be able to, I would somehow feel relieved if it were saved. Rather than killed.” Hachida finished in earnest.
Perhaps it won’t be too hard to convince them. “I understand, Hacidai-san I will do my best. And Rokusuke?” Rokusuke turned to look at Naruto. “It will last for about half an hour or so.” Naruto said his goodbyes.
Time to investigate those mines.

The ground crunched under his feet as he headed further into the mine. The damp metallic smell grew stronger as he headed in further. He stopped and held up the lantern he had been given to the mines rock wall. He guessed the claw marks spanned about two to two and a half feet. Hachidai hadn’t lied about whatever was in the back of the mines being big. Naruto continued deeper into the mines. He noticed the smell was starting to change. He tried to identify what it was.
Smells like an animal alright. And I definitely smell old blood.
You better watch yourself then.
I know I don’t plan on confronting it yet but I just want to get as much information as I can. Wait—shit! It’s going to be able to smell me now too, crap. Better head back for now. When I do confront it I plan to tell Rokusuke to make sure no one—and I mean NO ONE is out or nearby when I do this.
I agree. I think you should ask for help from Ranmaru though. He may come in handy.
Yeah that would be a good idea. Alright I’m going to talk to Rokusuke first since Ranmaru’s probably still working.
“And they tell me I’m stubborn.” Naruto grumbled and kicked a pebble.
Naruto was heading back to the curry shop after having talked with Rokusuke. It had taken the whole remainder of the day to convince Rokusuke of his plan. The man had at first flat out refused him—it wasn’t until Naruto told him that if he didn’t, the Katabami people could die. Of course, Naruto had left out having Ranmaru help. Naruto wondered if he would be able to convince Rokusuke of hiding the details about the creature. If it had taken a day to convince him to keep the people inside, how long would it take to convince him of hiding information about the kitsune?
“No luck?” Ranmaru asked, interrupted his frustration.
“Ah, no. I learned a great deal. Especially that Rokusuke is still a pain in the ass.” Naruto grumbled again while plunking down into a seat.
“Yeah he can be that way but he means well. Well most of the time.” Karashi said laughing. He placed a plate of curry in front of Naruto.
“Thanks. Sorry for not coming sooner.” Naruto apologized since as he was the only person eating in the shop.
“No problem.” Karashi removed his apron and set another full plate in front of Naruto. “When you’re done eating you can just place your dishes in the sink. Ranmaru don’t stay up too late.” Karashi touched Ranmaru’s back as he passed by to head up the stairs.
“Am I getting in the way?” Naruto couldn’t help but ask. He almost choked on his curry when he saw Ranmaru turn bright red.
“No, I told him we needed to talk about what was going on.”
“Did you watch as I spoke with Hachidai-san?” Naruto asked around his last bite of curry.
“Um—I. Yes I did.” Ranmaru finally answered.
“I’m not mad. Saves time in recounting the information. But,” He looked Ranmaru in the eye. “I would appreciate it if you tell me beforehand. That can be very invasive.”
“Of course, I don’t normally look into homes or buildings. I just tend to watch out for those in the open.” Ranmaru said quickly. Naruto nodded and patted him on the back.
“So you were not wrong about it being a yokai or it being hurt.”
“The only other thing now would be how to get it away from here without getting the people involved.” Ranmaru frowned.
“Well I already spoke with Rokusuke about that. Which why I was complaining earlier. Took me almost all day to convince him to quarter everyone inside their homes the night I confront him.”
“Good. I wonder if the yokai will be reasonable or if it’s too animalistic. Perhaps it would be best to go at night.” Ranmaru gasped. “Ah! I’m sorry here I am trying to take over your mission.”
“Well actually I was hoping you would help me out. You’ve been very helpful thus far. I was planning on going at night. I was wondering if you could help be my second pair of eyes.” Naruto said while staring at Ranmaru.
“Of course! When do you plan to act?” Ranmaru said excitedly.
“Tomorrow evening, just before the sun begins to set. The sooner the better.” Naruto had already said as much to Rokusuke.
“Right.” Ranmaru nodded.

Naruto glanced around and turned to Ranmaru, who nodded. His maroon eyes brighten to crimson and Naruto could see the sparkling red chakra flow. It took Ranmaru only a couple of minutes to confirm that as requested no one was out but Naruto and him. Looking at Naruto he nodded and they headed into the mines. As they headed further into the mines the light of the evening sun disappeared. Pausing they lit their lanterns and continued towards the end of the mines.
They had decided before hand, it was be best to be as quiet as possible and to not bring any visible weapons. For a split second Ranmaru tensed when he saw the large claw marks on the mines wall. He noticed that Naruto had not given the marks a second thought, undoubtedly because he had already seen them. This would be the first time he had done something like this since Raiga. Even though he missed Raiga every now and then, he was very happy with Karashi.
Naruto stopped walking when we sensed the closeness of the yokai. Without speaking he signaled for Ranmaru to use his Kekkai Genkai. Nodding Ranmaru sent out his flow of chakra to see if the kitsune had woken up already or it they had been able to sneak up on it. They both believed the latter would be impossible. Not only would the kitsune detect their presence quickly they had come to close to night time. Naruto didn’t want to disrupt the Katabami’s working hours too much since it’s the town’s main source of income. While Ranmaru appreciated this, he really didn’t want to die for that.
Ranmaru tried not to gasp when he saw that the yokai was indeed awake. It was looking right at them. With his sight so much closer he could see just how amazing and terrifying the kitsune was. It was about the size of two full grown men, with eyes so red they looked like they were bleeding, and its fur had the purist golden tint Ranmaru had ever seen. Without looking away, Ranmaru nodded and mouthed the word awake.
The kitsune suddenly glanced towards Naruto just as Ranmaru saw him, from the corner of his eye, continue forward. Ranmaru slowly continued forward after Naruto, making sure to continue watching the kitsune. So far it was only watching them. Ranmaru was pretty sure it knew that Naruto and he were far more different from the men before. Just how much it knew he wasn’t sure.
They were finally close enough to the kitsune for the lanterns outside glow to shine on its paws. Seeing the size of those paws made Ranmaru wonder how exactly Hachidai had been able to escape. Instead of raising his lantern to illuminate the rest of the kitsunes body, Naruto placed the lantern on the ground. Not once looking away from kitsune. Following his lead, Ranmaru did the same. He knew that as a jinchuuriki Naruto would have a far better understanding on how to handle the kitsune.
Naruto could see that Hachidai had not exaggerated in the appearance of the kitsune. Not only was it massive, it had golden fur, and bright red eyes. The eyes were so intense they glowed in the darkness of the mines while most of its body remained in the shadow. He didn’t want to ask Ranmaru anything about it yet because the less the kitsune knew the better. He had really hoped they could catch it unawares. He had a feeling Ranmaru believed he had everything under control but to be honest he didn’t. This was way different from having the nine-tails sealed inside him.
I wonder if it can talk.
That all depends on its age. Kits like babies can’t talk until they reach a certain age.
Well if this is a baby, it is one big ass baby.
Kurama laughed. To you humans it would be. Be careful Naruto. Not only is it hurt, it’s also malnourished.
Shit. Right. Of course it is. It’s been stuck in here the whole time. Naruto looked towards Ranmaru when he heard him suck in his breath. The purple haired man was looking down at the ground as if he saw a ghost. Stealing a quick glance at the kitsune once more, he looked at whatever Ranmaru had been staring at. It was a bone. Human. And chewed on.
Shit. Guess I know what happened to Hachidai-san’s friends.
I’m sorry for them but Naruto you must pay attention if you don’t want to end up like them.
Naruto quickly turned back towards the kitsune. It was closer. It had moved its head forward and was now resting it on its paws. And it was staring right at Naruto. While Naruto was no animal expert like Kiba, he had a feeling he was being studied. The kitsune almost looked nothing like Kurama. While it was obviously still a fox that’s where the resemblance ended. The second thing Naruto noticed was that the kitsune was young. It had large round eyes and its muzzle was just beginning to lose its chubbiness. Naruto would almost call it cute if it had not killed. Also if there was not dried blood on its nose either.
Now that he knew it was a young kitsune he had to figure out where to go from there. He wondered if he talked to it if it would respond. He hoped that as long as he showed no hostility it would not attack. He really did not want to have to kill a baby. Well if even was a baby that is. Taking a breath he did the only thing he could think.
“Hi there. My name is Uzumaki Naruto and—”
“Uzumaki?” It asked. It had the voice of an adolescent and apparently it was a she.
“Um yes, I’m Uzumaki Naruto. You know the name Uzumaki?” Naruto asked.
Suddenly before Naruto could even blink, he found himself beneath the kitsune. Naruto tried his best not to move since he was nose to nose with the kitsune. He really didn't want to get his head bitten off. Especially with the kitsune growling and barring its teeth. When he heard Ranmaru move, he quickly held up his hand.
He had definitely not expected to be attacked just because of his name. The only reason for it that he could think of was because of Kurama. Perhaps the kitsune had heard about him being sealed inside of Naruto. How could he explain that it wasn't his fault? Would he even be able to? So far all they had going for them was that the kitsune was pretty much a kid and could talk. And apparently she may not get along with Naruto after all.
Shit. Kurama what the hell am I supposed to do? Naruto’s eye twitched as a bead of sweat ran down his face.
Without moving, try talking to her. Naruto could hear the tension in Kurama’s voice.
The kitsune’s eyes narrowed at Naruto. Do you think she knows I’m talking to you?
Maybe… Her eye’s narrowed again. Yes. She can somehow sense me talking to you. Ask her what her name is.
“Um so now that you know my name. And you obviously hate it.” He mumbled. “What is your name?”
Naruto!
Sorry I couldn’t help it.
“You’re talking to each other.” She said in surprise.
“Yeah. Kurama and I talk a lot.” Naruto couldn’t help but answer.
“You say his name so freely!” She hissed and pressed her snout closer. He could feel the heat of her breath on his neck.
Yeah she definitely likes you.
Naruto pay attention. She could kill you.
“Right.” Naruto answered aloud. Naruto would have laughed at her annoyed and confused expression, if she wasn’t about ready to bite his head off. Naruto wondered what in the world he should do. She apparently didn’t like Naruto but she did have a thing for Kurama.
Kurama do you recognize this kitsune?
No I have never seen her before. While I have met some kitsune yokai in the past, her coloring is unfamiliar to me. However her eye color is pretty common for animal yokai. Well at least when wounded, hungry, or upset.
Maybe her parents or someone she knew, knew you. Or maybe knew about you. She looks pretty young to know you personally. Especially if you haven’t seen a yokai for so long. I wonder just how old she is.
It is possible. I will admit I am more than curious.
Naruto refocused on the kitsune when she backed away from being nose to nose. He almost sighed, she had been squishing the hell out of him. He wasn’t too sure what she was planning next but he hoped it didn’t involve him serving as a squeaky toy. She continued to stare at him.
“Yeah?!” Naruto blurted out before he could help himself.
Naruto!
Well what she’s not exactly light you know!
Her weight will not matter to you once you are dead. Once WE are dead!
“What is he saying?" She finally asked.
Holy crap she spoke—well again!
“Pretty much that I should watch how I talk to you.” Naruto said looking straight into those blood red eyes. They looked like they shined for a second.
“He is right.”
“Yeah well you’re going to make me lose my lunch if you sit on me any longer.”
She wrinkled her nose in disgust and without saying anything she moved away. Just far enough not to be sitting on him but still pretty damn close when he sat up. She sat on her haunches and looked him over again as he rubbed his stomach.
“When you both speak I sense no anger. Why? Isn’t he trapped?” She sounded upset again.
Before Naruto could answer Ranmaru entered not only his line of sight but the kitsune’s as well. Apparently they had both been very distracted by each other because Ranmaru had been completely forgotten. While Naruto had only jumped a little in surprise, the kitsune reacted much worse—she struck and she struck hard. She slammed Ranmaru so hard against the mine wall that rock fell from the ceiling. Set of saving Ranmaru, Naruto rammed her just hard enough for her to let go of Ranmaru. As she stumbled he grabbed Ranmaru and made like a bat out of hell from the mines.
“Ranmaru! Ranmaru are you ok?!” Naruto shouted as he ran for the exit.
“Yes Naruto. It hurts like hell but nothing too serious. Why are you running? We need to—”
Ranmaru was interrupted by the sound of thunder—the sound of a huge animal running. The growl that followed showed that she was not too far behind. Naruto didn’t let up, knowing that he couldn’t fight her in the Katabami towm. He wouldn’t.
“Naruto go to the mountain!” Ranmaru shouted suddenly.
“Where?” Naruto panted and wanted to stop when he reached the mount of the mine.
“The mountain where you fought Raiga!” Ranmaru pointed in the direction of the mountain.
“Got it!” He said turning away from the houses.
While amidst running Naruto shifted Ranmaru onto his back. With the change of position he picked up speed and ran up the wrapping edge of the mountain. While the sound of the kitsune didn’t sound as loud as it had in the mines, he could still hear it. He had a feeling Ranmaru and he were not the only ones to hear it. Finally after what felt like a lifetime of running he reached the top of the mountain. He turned around just in time to see the kitsune land atop the mountain as well. If she wasn’t looking to kill them Naruto could almost call her beautiful.
“Why the hell did you attack Ranmaru!?” Naruto couldn’t help shouting. She didn’t respond. She continued to advance slowly on them.
“He didn’t do anything to you! You didn’t have to hurt him damnit!” He shouted again. Still she did not respond. Had he imagined her speaking?
No kit. You did not imagine it.
Then what the hell!? Why isn’t she answering me?
I believe that we will not be able to convince her without fighting. She has been affronted by you attacking her on Ranmaru’s behalf.
What the hell! She attacked him for no reason!
I understand but she doesn’t see it that way. He startled her into attacking—in her mind he is a danger to her safety.
Great. Just fucking fantastic.
“Alright. Ranmaru I want you to stay back.”
“But I can help you!” Ranmaru protested.
“I know that you can but I need to do this. It’s my mission and she needs to be shown that she is not as strong as she thinks she is. And,” He glared at the kitsune. “She really pissed me off.”
Ranmaru only stared at Naruto until he finally nodded his agreement. Removing himself from Naruto’s back, he slowly made his way to the trees that stood behind them. Naruto paid no attention to Ranmaru’s retreat. He stared down the kitsune—trying to find the location of her injury. After pulling a kunai from his back pouch, he suddenly made hands signs as he ran at her.
“Kage Bunshin no Jutus!”
The mountain top was suddenly filled with fifteen Naruto’s who were all running at the kitsune. Hissing the kitsune swatted at the incoming Naruto’s, who seemed to completely surround her. Naruto noticed that the kitsune tried her best to not let any of the shadow clones touch her left side.
That explains why she attacked Ranmaru so intensely.
“Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!”
The kistune looked up when she suddenly heard an odd swirling sound. One of the Naruto’s popped into a cloud while the other continued towards her.
“Rasengan!”
Suddenly the kistune swung to the left and dodged the rasengan while swatting Naruto. The clone popped. Growling the kitsune fought of the remaining clones. Once they were all gone she searched for the real Naruto. Only to find him still by the tree line. Hissing the kitsune pushed of the ground and ran full speed at him. When she was midway across, the mountain suddenly gave way and she collapsed into it. She could sense the remaining chakra that was part of the cave in. She began to claw her way out.
Just as she pulled her head out of the cave in Naruto slammed into her face. His body was cloaked in chakra. He looked like a walking candle with arms sticking out from the sides of his body. Naruto suddenly began to reign punches on the disoriented kitsune. When he finally landed a hit on her wound she howled and launched herself out of the mountain cave in.
Panting the kitsune stared at Naruto. Besides his sudden change of appearance, his smell had changed. Somehow he smelled like a kistune but not completely. She wondered if perhaps it was because he was using the kyuuubi’s chakra. Growling she ran for him again only for one of the large chakra arms to hit her once again.
Suddenly she was under attack again by the odd arms. How the shinobi was able to harness the chakra so well was beyond her. But she would not stand down. The other shinobi was no concern anymore–only the Uzumaki shinobi! Seeing an opening, she jumped and slashed at Naruto with her golden tail. She grinned when he flew and hit a boulder, gasping. She ran at him again full speed, only to be detoured once again by those infernal chakra arms.
Before she raised herself from the ground, she was pinned to the ground by three chakra arms. She growled and hissed as she tried to gain some footing. She grew even wilder when she saw the anger and pity in his eyes. What was there to pity? It was not as if humans actually cared for their kind. If they had they would not have killed so many. They would not have enslaved so many.
“Stop. I don’t want to kill you.” Naruto said hoarsely. She only hissed at him. Keeping her pinned, he sat where she could see him.
“Look I know you think I’m bad because of Kurama being sealed. But—” He sighed and rubbed the back of his neck. “I didn’t do it. My ancestors are the ones who started it. And as a safety precaution my parents—well my father did it. It was the only way to stop Kurama from destroying Konoha. From killing a lot of people. A lot of innocent people.”
She continued to glare at him. Refusing to be swayed by his reasoning and pity.
“You noticed how I’m able to control Kurama’s chakra pretty well right?” She tried to swat at him. “I’ll take that as a yes. Well it’s not so much control as it is guidance. Kurama’s the one who showed me how to do it.”
She narrowed still blood red eyes at him but she stopped thrashing around. Naruto smothered a sigh of relief, not wanting to upset her again. While fighting, they had reopened up her wound and if he didn’t get her to see reason she would definitely die. He wondered what it would take her to listen to him. He could try the technique him and Kurama had been working on. The only worry he had was maintaining a hold on her while he tried to do it.
“Look if you,” He nibbled on his lip. “If you could speak to Kurama himself then would you listen?” She tensed.
“Impossible.” She said hoarsely. Naruto tried not to wince. She sounded like a sick kid. But at least she finally talked.
“No not any more. We’ve discovered something together when I go on solo missions.” He continued, seeing he had her attention. “Without the seal in place anymore, I can create clones like this I can somehow transfer a bit of Kurama out. I can’t transfer all of him out only some. If that makes any sense.”
“No I think I understand.” She said suddenly looking at him in curiosity. “Since he speaks to you in your mind you both share a close connection there. Because of that you are able to do the same with a clone. But with you closer to the kyuubi during ‘this’ as you call it, you are able to allow his will to take over the clone.”
“Even though my clones may have their own personalities.” Her eyebrow rose. “Long story.” He sighed.
“Yes. I think because it’s a clone and you are closer to kyuubi like this that’s why it’s possible.”
She looked away but then looked back at him. She did this twice before he couldn’t stand it.
“What?” He asked.
“So can I speak to him?” She asked shyly.
Naruto held in a laugh at her sudden shyness. Where the hell was the angry and violent kitsune from just moments ago? Now he really wanted to know what was up with her and her fascination with Kurama. He nodded but before he did anything he stared straight into her red shinning eyes.
“If I do this you cannot attack me?” He frowned at her when she huffed. “I’m serious. If you kill me he dies as well. If your—”
“You lie! He will be released when you die!” She shouted struggling again.
“No.” He pinned her down again. “It’s true because of without the seal in place and our connection growing he has told me himself he doesn’t think he’ll live if I die. Are you willing to take that chance?”
She shook her head and stopped struggling.
“Good. No please be good because this does take some concentration.” Naruto grumbled.
Damn he really needed a vacation. He created a shadow clone with his real hands. The clone sat down beside him and both he and Naruto closed their eyes. Before he could concentrate, he had to give the kitsune a hard stare once again. When she only huffed at him again he closed his eyes.
Kurama?
I’m ready kit.
Alright. Well here goes nothing.
Naruto took a deep breath and began to separate Kurama’s chakra from his own. Red chakra began to surround the clone before it entered into its stomach. The clone winced and then sighed when it suddenly began to change. The whisker marks on the clones face deepened and a fang began to appear at the corner of its mouth. The clones chin became a bit more pointed than it had been before. Then as if someone was pouring paint atop its head, Naruto’s clone’s hair began to bleed into a crimson color. His bangs grew and flared out as if swept up from the wind. The rest of his hair grew to the middle of his back and his sideburns lengthened to sweep across his chest. All that was left to signify that it had once been Naruto’s clone was the deepened whiskers and his clothes.
Naruto frowned knowing that Kurama was almost done taking over the clone. This was the part where it got tricky. He had to keep the clone stable while at the same time allowing Kurama to take over it. Taking a deep breath once again he let a bit more of Kurama’s chakra flow into the clone so he could stabilize its existence for a little longer than usual. Luckily since he made it a habit of hanging around with his own clones it wasn’t too hard. It actually seemed to be getting easier. Then without opening his eyes, he reached into his jacket and pulled out the leaf necklace Kurama had told him to make. When he had been making it Kurama had told him that he needed to add his blood to it while in bijuu mode. He had explained that it was similar to a summoning jutsu but preserved. Also it was a way to help him keep his transformation from turning right back into a bijuu.
Yeah I don’t want to see that happen again. Naruto thought as he placed the necklace around Kurama’s neck.
Naruto sighed and craked his neck. He really hated having to sit still like that. At least this time it had only taken about ten to fifteen minutes. The first time they had tried it, it had taken the whole day. Only for it to mess up and for Kurama to go a bit haywire. Not that he had meant to. Luckily it had been while he was training in Wind country and far away from Suna and Konoha.
Naruto slowly opened his eyes and he saw the kitsune was now solely focused on Kurama. When he saw Kurama like this for some reason he would think of Fuki, a classmate of Sakura and Ino’s. Of course Naruto thought Kurama looked way cooler than that smartass. Even though Naruto had seen Kurama like this before, it always fascinated him when he took a human form. Naruto grinned as Kurama began to open his eyes. His emerald colored eyes. Naruto knew that like his own eyes they didn’t always stay that color.
Kurama took a deep breath and sighed. He really loved that he could be part of the world again. Regardless that is wasn’t his real body it was great to experience this freeness after being sealed for so long. He turned to look at Naruto who was grinning like an idiot. Kurama still found it so incredible that their relationship had changed this much. Before if someone had told him they would be like this right now without trying to kill each other he would have called them mad. Chuckling he turned his attention to the kitsune. His smile died down into a frown.
“You have still yet to tell us your name, young one.” Kurama raised his crimson eyebrow. She remained silent—whether out of fear or defiance he would soon find out. “You asked to speak with me yet you remain silent. I did not realize you were this cowardly.” He smothered a smirk when she hissed.
“I am not a coward!” She growled.
“Good. Then tell me your name. Naruto,” He continued at Naruto’s nod of acknowledgement. “Release her.” That got him Naruto’s full attention.
“Eh?! Why?” Naruto shouted wide eyed, looking at Kurama as if he were insane.
Ignoring Naruto’s question, he stood and look down into the kitsune’s worried eyes.
“She will behave. Won’t you my dear?”
She grumbled but then nodded. Kurama looked to Naruto, who sighed and nodded as well. Naruto released her and stood but did not drop his bijuu mode. Once she was free she sat up on her haunches slowly, unconsciously protecting her side. Kurama hoped she would not be any further trouble—he really was glad to see a fellow kitsune.
“Ami.” She coughed.
“What?” Naruto asked.
She sighed, “My name is Ami.”
“I see. It suits you.” Kurama said warmly. He chuckled when she blushed.
Ami meant beautiful.
Naruto just rolled his eyes. Man would you stop flirting!
Kurama turned to look at Naruto. I am doing no such thing. She’s a child!
Could’ve fooled me.
“You are both still able to talk in each other’s minds.” Ami said with eyes narrowed.
Naruto grinned. “Jealous?”
She started to get up but stopped when Kurama sighed.
“Really. Can we not just talk without all the bickering? I cannot be like this for long.” Kurama looked at Naruto. “And neither can you.”
“Right.” Naruto swayed a little and Kurama rushed to support him. “Sorry.” Kurama had Naruto sit back down.
“Ami why were in the Katabami mines?” Kurama could not waste any more time.
“Well Kurama-sama I was attacked and needed shelter. So I hid in the mines.”
“What attacked you? Surely a human could not have hurt you so badly.” Kurama said indicating the large wound on her side.
“No.” She shook her head. “It wasn’t a human but another yokai. I was attacked because I…”
Naruto looked up at the kitsune. “Why were you attacked?”
She huffed and looked away from Naruto. Kurama stood in front of her and grabbed her large muzzle to make her look at him. For no reason that Naruto could think of Ami’s eyes began to tear up. Kurama said nothing, only stroked her muzzle. She sniffled.
“Because I am a kitsune.” She finally said softly.
“What?!” Naruto exclaimed.
“Ami,” Kurama said still stroking her muzzle. “Don’t be afraid. What happened?”
“I come from the outskirts of Wind Country. Where no man can really call it home because of the fierce living conditions. While the yokai do not normally live together, in Wind Country many of us reside together. We were able to do so because we have a leader who is a Bake-danuki, a tanuki yokai. He is one of the most powerful yokai that I know of…well at least he was one of the most powerful yokai I knew of.” She grimaced. “A year ago an Inugami came to live with us. At first she was very kind and beautiful which surprised us since she was an inugami. Well she was so beautiful that the Bake-danuki took her as his bride. But the night they married she murdered him so she could take control over us. Well my family, the kitsune’s, were the warriors for our small home but what we didn’t realize was that she already knew this. She had planned for everything—she wiped out my family with her own inugami warriors. Being the youngest my mother tried to escape with me, only to be killed. I was left to flee and fend for myself but was attacked before I could leave Wind Country. Trying to hide my sent I jumped into the bay and was washed ashore to River Country and made my way here. Hoping the stench of the mines would cover my sent, I hid.”
“Holy shit.” Naruto whispered.
Kurama sighed. She had gone through so much and she was still just a child!
“Wait.” Naruto said suddenly looking at Ami again. “But how do you know about Kurama and me?”
“My father would tell me stories about the great Kurama-sama and the evil Uzumaki.” Ami spoke as it was the simplest explanation possible.
“What the hell? Evil Uzumaki?!” Naruto shouted.
“Well it was Uzumaki Mito who trapped Kurama-sama, right?” She asked looking at Kurama, who was now standing away from her.
“Yes I was first sealed inside her.” Kurama looked at a worried Naruto. “But Ami, Naruto is not evil. Quite the opposite of that. And as for being sealed—while I may never forgive it. I do understand why they thought it was necessary.”
Ami looked at him as if he was crazy. “And that’s it?!”
“Well Ami, what more do you expect me to say?” Kurama patted Naruto on the shoulder to show he held no ill will. “I have lived a very long time and have seen many wars and death. The past is something I cannot change. But the future—well that is something I look forward to being part of.”
Ami sighed. Well this kyuubi was far different from the one her father had spoken of. She starred at Naruto, wondering what was so special about him that could change someone as powerful as Kurama. Then again the fact that he gave Kurama the freedom he was having at the moment was something in itself. Maybe this Uzumaki was not as bad as she had originally thought.
“So if we heal you what do you plan on doing next?” Naruto asked while standing up and stretching.
“Heal me?” She asked in surprise.
“Well duh! Can’t leave you like that.”
Kurama laughed. “What Naruto means to say is that if you do not intend to harm anyone else we can heal you.”
Ami suddenly felt sick. Harm anyone. She had killed. Before everything had gone wrong, she had never harmed anyone. Even though she hated humans for their treatment towards her kind as well as those like Kurama, she had never thought of killing them before! She looked at Naruto, she had tried to kill him too.
Naruto looked at Ami when he heard her make a sudden whining noise. What was wrong with her? She looked like she was going to cry.
Don’t tell me I hurt her feelings?
No, kit. I believe she just realized what she has done. Get ready if she tries to flee.
Shit.
Naruto shot his chakra arms out just as she tried to bolt like Kurama had predicted. He tried his best not to hurt her but she was making that damn near impossible with the way she was squirming. Naruto clamped his mouth shut when Kurama suddenly wrapped his arms around Ami’s neck and whispered into her ear. Naruto couldn’t hear what he told her but whatever was said did the trick. She whined but stopped thrashing around. Naruto only let go of her when Kurama looked back at him a nodded and said it was ok.
Naruto frowned when he heard Ami say something. He couldn’t understand it at first but after a few seconds he understood. She was crying and saying she was sorry. Naruto sighed and slowly walked towards Ami and Kurama. Acting on instinct he began to stroke her muzzle. Ami tensed which caused Kurama to tense up as well but Naruto just continued to try and comfort her. After a few minutes she relaxed again and even pressed her muzzle into his pal.
“Ami,” Kurama spoke softly, breaking the silence. Ami looked at Kurama, who had yet to let go. “It was instinct. This guilt may not ever leave you but someday you may learn to live with it. As I am beginning to.”
Ami wanted to argue but having heard what Kurama had been through she let it go. Looking away from him she looked at Naruto. She was still astounded that he wasn’t angry with her. Even after all she had done. When he noticed her staring at him he surprised her even more by smiling at her. She sighed in defeat. She had no real reason to hate anyone or the Uzumaki, especially if Kurama didn’t himself. Her mother had always told her she had a way of judging others for who they truly were. Ami believed that to be true just as she had when she had first met that horrible inugami. And right now she didn’t think anything about Naruto was bad.
“Naruto, I think I would like to be healed now.” She said shyly.
He grinned and began to head off towards the trees. He paused suddenly and turned around.
“I don’t know much about healing but the guy you attacked earlier.” Ami winced but Naruto continued. “Well I remember him being able to heal someone before. Would you be ok if he checks out your wounds?”
Ami hesitated. But he was a friend of Naruto’s so he shouldn’t be bad. Right? Hoping for the best, she accepted his offer. Then again would his friend be ok with helping her after she attacked him? Just as Naruto turned around to head to the trees she spoke up.
“Wait.” She cried. Naruto looked at her in question. “Will he be alright with that?”
“Yeah, he already knew you were wounded. He told me himself that you might react that way anyway.”
She watched him as he disappeared into the trees. Her eyes widened as she realized something. She turned her head around so fast her necked popped a little.
“But won’t it be bad if Naruto’s friend sees you? Won’t that be bad for both of you?” She asked earnestly.
Kurama chuckled. “He already has.”
Before she could ask him what he meant Naruto and the young man from before were headed their way. She sighed knowing that now there was definitely no point in trying to hide Kurama. And what did Kurama mean he already saw him? Ami was beginning to realize just how small her world had been before.
“Ami I know you are young but I’m still curious.” She looked at Kurama, who she found starring at her. “Just how old are you?”
For some reason she didn’t want to tell him. While she may not be a baby to him she would seem that way. After all he was already past nine-hundred years old. She starred at him, or was he? While he had nine tails that did not necessarily mean he was that old. Her father had said that he had heard Kurama had been born with them already. So just how old was he? Did it matter?
“I’m…” She whined we she saw him smirk. “I’m fifty-eight.”
“Hmm. So you’re technically you are younger than Naruto.” He chuckled when she huffed.
“I’m older than her?” Naruto said, making her jump, not realizing he had already come back.
“So!” She couldn’t help shouting.
“Glad to see you’re talking again.” Ranmaru said finally speaking up.
Ami tensed and slowly turned to look at the man she had attacked. He didn’t look like he was afraid of her at all. Either he was very stupid or very strong. Judging by the way he presented himself she had a feeling it was the latter. He was even smiling at her! When he tried to make his way to her wounded side she couldn’t help but hiss at him. Instead of getting upset he just stopped and looked at her.
“Damnit Ami! Ranmaru’s only trying to help.” Naruto shouted at her.
Feeling foolish, she slowly allowed him to look at her most serious wound. Ranmaru looked at Naruto after staring at the wound for a minute.
“Naruto you do realize I am not a medical-nin right?” Ranmaru asked Naruto.
“But—but didn’t you bring Raiga back after Neji said he was dead?” Naruto sputtered.
“Well yes but that was different.” Ranmaru sighed and looked at the wound again. “Well I do know some healing techniques from when I was once with Raiga.”
“Will they help her?” Naruto asked, worried he had made a mistake.
“Yes but she will have to do a lot of healing on her own. I can only patch her up a little. Otherwise I would only be hurting her more.” Ranmaru looked Ami in the eye. “I will do the best that I can, ok?”
Surprised she could only nod her head. These men were really strange. When he began to heal her she winced but made sure not to move. It felt like he was checking and healing injuries for hours by the time he said he was finished. He sighed and wiped the sweat off his face with his arm.
“Well Ami. That is going to be the best that I can do.” Ranmaru panted.
“Thank you Ranmaru-san.” She said quietly. He smiled and nodded at her.
“So what now?” Ranmaru asked Naruto. Ami and Kurama looked at Naruto.
“Well she can’t stay here but she can’t go back home, right?” Ami shook her head at Naruto’s question. Naruto looked at Kurama for a second then looked towards the rising sun.
“Can I go with you?” Ami asked before she realized what she was saying. All three men looked at her.
“Well to be honest I don’t mind.” Naruto said rubbing the back of his neck. “But I’m actually on my way to Suna.”
Ami’s stomach dropped. “Oh.”
Kurama smiled at the defeated look Ami wore. “That does not mean he won’t help you Ami.”
“Really!?” She asked excitedly.
Naruto nodded then looked at Ranmaru. “Do you think you could take care of her till I come back?”
“I don’t mind. But is that ok with you?” Ranmaru asked Ami. Ami looked at him and then looked at Naruto and Kurama.
“You promise you won’t forget?” She couldn’t help but ask.
“Of course not. Besides the only one who I think will understand you best would be Kurama. And since we’re kinda inseparable I think its best you come with us. Just not to Suna though.” Naruto said smiling. Hoping that having her with him would make up for Kurama’s bad past.
“Ok.” Ami said.
“Well it’s settled then.” Kurama said, finally speaking up. He turned towards Ranmaru. “And I hope we can trust you to keep all that’s happened to yourself?”
Ranmaru nodded and smiled. “Yes Kurama-sam. I know how bad it would be if someone were to find out. Don’t worry I won’t tell anyone.” Kurama nodded.
“Great. Now I just have to figure out how to report all this without anyone finding out about Ami.” Naruto groaned.
Kurama chuckled. “Don’t worry we’ll figure something out. But first thing first where should we hide Ami?”
They all looked at Ami. Where in the world could they hide a kitsune the size of two large men? Ranmaru looked toward the trees and smiled.
“Naruto.” Ranmaru said to get the blonds attention.
“Yeah?” Naruto asked looking at Ranmaru and then followed his line of vision to the trees.
“Do you remember where you and you shinobi friends tied me up?”
“Um yeah.” Naruto frowned at Ranmaru. What was he getting at?
Naruto’s eye’s widened. The cabin! Naruto nodded at Ranmaru when Naruto noticed he was staring at him.
Naruto felt his smile slipping. Rokusuke had not said a word since Naruto had told him about what happened. Well what had supposedly had happened to what was in the mines. He didn’t remember the man being this intimidating before. Maybe it was because he was now the leader of the village? But damnit that didn’t matter he was going to make Naruto late.
After securing Ami in the old cabin on the mountain, Ranamru and he had headed back to the curry shop. Naruto left a clone to stay with Ami when he had to release the clone of Kurama. He felt bad about not leaving Kurama with Ami instead but it took a lot off him when he did that. Also it would be hard to explain why he was walking around in bijuu mode.
“Rokusuke-san?” Naruto pressed his smile again. The man still said nothing.
This bastard is killing me!
Naruto what’s the matter? Kurama yawned.
The matter is that Rokusuke-san doesn’t seem to be buying my story.
You told him exactly what we agreed on?
Yes! And he hasn’t said anything since! And on top of that I’m hungry!
As if on que Naruto’s stomach growled making him blush when Rokusuke raised an eyebrow.
Naru—
“Look you asked to see me first thing in the morning and I haven’t even had breakfast yet. Then I tell you what happened and you still have not let me go eat!” Naruto stood up so fast from his chair it fell over and smacked loudly on the ground. “So if there is nothing else I would like to go eat now. Good-bye!”
“Naruto.” Rokusuke said calmly. Naruto tensed and swirled around.
“WHAT!?” Naruto shouted.
Suddenly several men with weapons burst into the office only to be surprised at seeing an angry Naruto. Rokusuke calmly stood up from his chair and signaled the men to leave. Hesitating only for a moment the men nodded and quietly made their exit.
“You know Naruto I believe that is the first honest thing you have told me since you first came into my office.” Rokusuke said looking out his window at the gold mines.
“I am not lying. I already told you what happened.” Naruto said through gritted teeth.
“I see.” Rokusuke closed his eyes and then turned around to face Naruto. “And you say that as a shinobi following his ninja-way?”
Naruto said nothing.
“Naruto I am the leader for this town and because of that I am not responsible for—”
“I know that.” Naruto interrupted.
“Then you understand that you hiding the truth of went on in those mines is not allowing me to do that?” Rokusuke asked sternly.
“I already told you—”
“Yes you already told me that it was a large wounded mountain cat and that you already took care of it.” Rokusuke sighed. “Where is it then?”
“If you are asking for its body you won’t find one because I didn’t kill it.” Naruto said stiffly.
“So you say.”
“What the hell do you want from me?” Naruto groaned.
“The truth Naruto, the truth.” Rokusuke glared at Naruto.
Naruto perhaps if you tell him that the truth would endanger not only the lives of his people but the life of an innocent maybe he will back off.
I doubt it.
Try.
Naruto sighed, picked the chair backup and dropped down into it. He looked at Rokusuke.
“Rokusuke-san what if I told you it would be in the best interest of your town for you not to know…the truth?” Naruto asked.
Roksuke eyed Naruto for a moment. “Is that a threat?”
Naruto shook his head. “I...Let’s just say I stumbled on something I was not even prepared for. And should I reveal it, many more lives may be lost—even that something I was not even prepared for.”
“So you’re protecting it?” Rokusuke asked.
“Her.” Naruto answered.
Stunned Rokusuke’s eyes widened and he sat on the edge of his desk. “Her.” He whispered.
Naruto could only nod, hoping Rokusuke would listen to him.
“Wait but she killed my men.” Rokusuke said in defense.
Naruto shook his head. “Only because she was scared. She escaped death herself after witnessing the murder of her entire family.”
Neither of them spoke for a long time. Both lost in their own thoughts. Rokusuke worried about his people and Naruto worried about Ami.
“Are you excusing her actions then?” Rokusuke asked, finally breaking the silence.
“No I’m not and neither has she.”
Rokusuke nodded. “What will you do with her? Take her?”
Naruto nodded, not risking the chance of saying he would be leaving her only until his return from Suna. He worried that if Rokusuke knew he would search for her. While he didn’t think Rokusuke was a bad person he knew he would do what he thought best to save his people. As for Ami he had a feeling she still wasn’t too trusting of humans just yet. So he didn’t want to take the chance that she kill someone in defense again.
“Fine. But should I find out you’re lying or if any more of my people get hurt…” Rokusuke left the threat in the air.
“I know. Believe me I don’t want anyone else to get hurt.”
Naruto had a feeling he would not be receiving any more warm welcomes or goodbyes from Rokusuke again. But that was alright, as long as everyone was safe. That was all that mattered. Saying his goodbyes Naruto headed back to the curry shop.
Well that went better than I expected.
It will be alright kit. And I think it would be better for you to leave a regular clone and not me.
Sorry. I know how much you like to be out.
Don’t apologize you’ll make me feel guilty.
Really?
No.
Naruto laughed and shook his head. He went inside the curry shop through the back and sat on the stairs. It didn’t take long for Ranmaru to notice him. They went to Sansho’s room and Naruto explained everything that happened and why he was back later than expected. Ranmaru promised he would take care of Ami and keep her hidden. When Naruto told Ranmaru he planned on leaving Ranmaru tried to convince him to stay a little longer. Naruto explained that he really needed to be headed to Suna already or he would be late. Ranmaru backed off and told him to at least eat before he left.
After he finished eating a good three plates of curry Naruto said his goodbyes to everyone in the shop. Before leaving straight for Suna though he made a quick detour to see how Ami was doing. When he got there he found her asleep. He shook her softly to wake her.
“Hey so I’m going to be heading out now.” Naruto said softly.
He placed a large leaf that Ranmaru had given him on the floor of the cabin. Then before Ami could say anything he dropped three large cuts of red meat onto the leaf. Naruto nodded at Ami’s inquisitive look. She quickly said her thanks before she began to rip into the meat. Once she was finished she licked her muzzle clean, leaving behind only a shiny wet nose.
“Well Ami it is time for me to leave.” Naruto patted Ami’s head when she sighed. “Ranmaru has promised to take go care of you till we get back.”
“What about your clone?” Ami asked solemnly.
“Ami if you would like I can leave him with you.” Naruto couldn’t help but offer. Looking at how sad Ami now looked.
“But wouldn’t that still drain you?” She frowned.
“Yes and no. I can leave a regular clone with you for several days without being too drained. I would have like to leave a clone of Kurama with you but since it’s a little different it’s more taxing to leave him than it would be for a regular clone.” Naruto glanced at his clone. “I’m hoping someday I will have practiced letting him out enough that it won’t be so draining. But I’m just not there yet.”
“Oh ok. Well, I guess I wouldn’t mind having a clone of yours too keep company.” She sad shyly.
Naruto touched his clone and gave it more chakra to last till he came back for Ami. He sighed. He really wished he could have let the clone of Kurama stay.
Don’t worry kit. We will get there someday.
I hope so Kurama, I really do.
I know.
Naruto’s clone smiled at, who reached into his jacket and pulled out a little wooden box. He placed it next to his clone and left the cabin. Just as the door was closing he heard his clone ask Ami a question.
“Do you wanna play cards?”
(TBC)
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