Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto. :-) But I sure love it! ^_^815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbORRSIe5Tb
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**Iruka Umino:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5xUsSFATJM
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I had started the team assignments a while ago and now, I'm wondering if Minashi and Naruto would come as they said they would last night. It's not a surprise if they're already on a mission though. They are indeed strong ninjas of this village and Hokage-sama relies on them to get things done.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ68YkiG8fnF
"Team seven!" I announce. "Sasuke Uchiha! Sa--"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQOsqXQ2Vah
I am cut off when I hear three slow knocks on the already open door. I turn and I see Naruto leaning on the door frame, smiling calmly. "Good morning, Iruka-sensei."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWvzzdrxyGi
"Naruto-san, you came." I tell him with a slight bow and he does the same. Their mission is officially over now and Naruto is on the same rank as me. It is only right to treat him as such. "I thought you would not come."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWkHuXORQzT
"Well, I *did* say I'd come." He tells me with a smile. "And here I am now."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaiPscVnCOC
I nod. "Well, you can have the stage, Naruto-san." I tell him with a smile. "Go and blow their minds. But not literally, okay?" I hurriedly add the last sentence.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTQL9hJG9GG
He smiles."Relax, Iruka-sensei." He tells me. "Nobody's getting hurt."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFypqLIL9xj
I nod, knowing he's right. I guess I'm just being paranoid. There's no way the twins would hurt anyone in my class. They're not *that* evil.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8VCznwejmW
"Good morning, everyone!" Naruto says, smiling at his classmates.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡesAHDilPUC
"What are you doing here, Naruto?" Kiba asks, giving Naruto a skeptical look. "Only those who graduated are allowed in here."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpKJyeheUbD
"And what does this look like to you, Kiba?" Naruto asks, pointing to his head protector that he currently has tied to his forehead.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQJNHjU65i8
"Are you serious, Iruka-sensei?" Ino asks, looking at me. "You let *him* graduate?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡech1N38IID
"Yeah." Sakura adds. "No offense but he doesn't look like the type who'd graduate."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdMOKM7Alkh
I sigh, knowing this would happen. I'm not surprised though.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡozJWRkZosc
Naruto pretty much looks the same, the only difference is his height since Minashi must have undone the illusion to make him look short. He's probably two or three inches taller than Minashi now.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaUCvX3SY7g
He's wearing the same orange clothing and blue ninja sandals that he usually wears in school. I don't know why he likes that color though. It makes a person think of him as an idiotic person. After all, what kind of ninja wears brightly coloured clothing if his job is to be stealthy?815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlJSVhduJCz
But as for Naruto, he likes it that way. For people to underestimate him. And then, he'd prove them wrong. I guess he just likes to see the looks on their faces when he *does* prove them wrong.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg6XVQatYF4
"Sakura-chan, you're so mean." Naruto says, feigning hurt but then turns serious right after. "Well, no matter. I get that a lot, anyway. I bet that's what everybody else thinks about me." He scans his eyes on the whole classroom, looking at my students. "You all think I'm just a useless, idiotic guy who loves to do pranks."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGRJxU6NkGe
"Well, it's true." Kiba speaks up, making me turn to him.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ81NmhsToKp
"Kiba.." I scold him, my tone hard and reprimanding. "You're being disrespectful."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7hPqf0eaL0
Kiba turns to me, looking incredulous that I just defended my most mischievous student. I also feel looks of disbelief from my other students.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡARiFOOfqpL
"What are you saying all of a sudden now, Iruka-sensei?" Ino asks. "That we should respect him? As far as I know, he doesn't deserve any."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjcT2AvSnUi
I am about to reprimand Ino when I see Naruto gesture me to stop. "It is alright, Iruka-sensei." He tells me. "I am used to hearing insults from the likes of them."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcYRXzZ6WR0
"What's that supposed to mean, dumbass?" Kiba says, looking irked. Akamaru also growls lightly at Naruto.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOQeLJz5Sry
"Really now?" Naruto says, rolling his eyes and them smirking. "You say I'm a dumbass and yet you do not understand what I said. Now who's the dumbass?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGd4IsM09jv
I could hear snickers from the boys and Kiba bares his teeth in anger. "You wanna go right now?!!" He yells as he makes his way to Naruto while Akamaru hurriedly trails behind him. "I'll teach you a lesson!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNx4j3NFDMs
Me, being the teacher, move so I can stop Kiba. But then, in a second, I see a flash of red and Minashi is instantly in front of Kiba, blocking the Inuzuka's way. Kiba instantly stops on his tracks, looking at Minashi in a confused manner. Akamaru, who's right beside Kiba now, also seems confused at her sudden appearance.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6nQCD79YPc
"Whoaw." Kiba mutters, admiringly looking at Minashi from head to toe, not at all recognizing the person in front of him. "Who are you?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgqsG1ZVhFI
"For six agonizing months I've been your classmate.." Minashi mutters. "..and now, you don't recognise me? *Nice.*" She adds the last word sarcastically.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtWnPCeP5R8
"Wait a second.." Kiba says, narrowing his eyes at Minashi. "You sound familiar." He then sniffs the air around Minashi. "You smell familiar too." His eyes widen once he finally realizes. "Minashi?!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtWjV2oxuk7
"Duh." Minashi answers and the whole class erupts into shouts of disbelief. No doubt they don't believe what they see.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGWKlrzHpIy
"You look so different!" Kiba says, looking at Minashi once again. "Wow!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ugwSH8ejT
I'd say different is an understatement. In the academy, Minashi mimicked the actions of a lazy girl who doesn't seem to have time to groom herself nor have any reasons to care about anything. Now, she looks so smart and full of authority. And though she's always so sarcastic, she's pretty good at reading situations.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwbYtBRt5j4
For her clothing, she wears a red sleeveless tunic and then black shorts that stops about two inches above her knees; at the hem of her shorts, scrolls are strapped tightly. Her red hair is tied into a loose braid with her head protector placed on her head like a headband.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5bDNEHhrZZ
"Yes." Minashi mutters, waving her hand in a dismissive manner. "Now, how about you stop your drooling and go back to your seat, Kiba-san?" Minashi states and then suddenly glares at Kiba, while at the same time, releases a killing intent that's strong enough to send chills down my spine. "I don't take it lightly when someone looks down on my brother."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgsns5WQxrG
"Whoaw.." Kiba says, backing away a bit. I can tell that he feels it too - Minashi's killing intent. He just doesn't know what it is. "Since when did you care? And besides, he started it!" Kiba defends himself, pointing to Naruto in an accusing way. "That blockhead called me a dumbass!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdgGxBiu9A7
"Call my brother any more names and I just might make you regret it." Minashi threatens, making Kiba gulp and take a step back. Akamaru, however, bravely steps in front of his master and growls at Minashi. Clearly he doesn't like it when someone threatens Kiba.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDEmV1hit3B
"Heh.." Kiba says, smirking. "Threaten me and Akamaru might just bite you."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCdeClQITbK
Minashi ignores Kiba's comment, kneels down and smiles at the growling ninja hound. "I understand your loyalty to your master." She says, making Akamaru lessen his growling and making him listen to her. "Then you must surely understand why I threatened Kiba." Minashi adds.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHtd6oTJ5zE
This makes Akamaru stop growling and look at Minashi in a confused manner. Minashi sighs. "You and I are the same, Akamaru." She says. "We are only protecting the ones whom we hold dear. Don't you think so?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu9GjaHzWaP
Akamaru barks in agreement to Minashi and begins wagging his tail, clearly liking Minashi now. I just remain silent the whole time even though I'm quite amazed by how Minashi managed to befriend Akamaru in mere seconds.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn5UVEVly4o
"What the!" Kiba exclaims in disbelief. "Akamaru?!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXwQnXUugjX
Minashi turns to him. "Just go back to your seat, Kiba-san." She mutters, gently patting Akamaru's head. "Akamaru's a great companion. You should care for him just as he does for you."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeAOCG9TSXm
"O-okay.." Kiba says, seating himself on his desk. Though it's quite clear that he's still surprised.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV4tUb8JU6V
Now, I sigh in relief and find this as the perfect opportunity to introduce Naruto and Minashi to the class. "Everyone, Minashi-san and Naruto-san are not true students of the academy." I announce. "They are both ninja of chunin rank, assigned to work undercover and expose a traitor among the teachers. Thus, the reason why they were enrolled to the academy."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2pDU0z83II
I can hear murmurs from the whole classroom. Most students don't believe the things I had said.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIsdbC2xkRg
"Most of you don't believe it, I see." Minashi says, looking like she could care less. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm3HzlREPrQ
"Of course we don't." Ino is the one to stand. "The info might have come from Iruka-sensei but you and Naruto don't look like chunin. In fact, I don't think you would even match against me." She adds the last sentence smugly.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq6c5u19k9H
"Judging me and my brother by the way we look, huh?" Minashi says, looking at Ino. "A stupid choice, really."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkxLuuGpGeu
"What?!" Ino shouts, looking infuriated. "How dare you, Minashi!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmjX0PlEGbI
"I'm just stating facts here, Ino-san." Minashi mutters, shrugging. "Let's say I'm your enemy." She takes a few steps forwards. "And then, you underestimate me." She stops and then smirks. "But suddenly, something like *this* happens."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUBSyxSo78v
Just after Minashi finishes her sentence, a golden chain with a blade attacked on the tip, sprouts from her back and launches itself at Ino. It was all so fast that all I see is a blur and the next thing I see is the blade a mere centimeter away from piercing Ino's throat.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlUO0VaPdMh
As I can observe, Ino had frozen in place, not at all expecting the attack. I can even notice her shaking in fear.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF5E4q4mSDJ
"See what I mean, Ino-san?" Minashi mutters, the chain now retracting to her back and disappearing. "Never underestimate an enemy. It might cost you your life. Okay?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7InMXwUFHb
"Y-yes." Ino stutters, sitting back into her desk.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdSWGJqy0ic
"Well, now that I have everyone's attention.." Minashi says, turning to the whole class. "My brother has something to say." She then steps to the side, letting Naruto take the stage.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxNB7eQH7KK
"Well, we're only here to introduce ourselves. And this time, for real." Naruto says, smiling. "Through our names remain the same, we'd like to correct your knowledge about our surname. It's not Uzumaki. It's Namikaze."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ72hWF28VGp
"Wait a second!" Sakura exclaims, standing up. But soon she regrets it Minashi turns to her. "Oh.. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to yell."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5pnTZ8LMOp
Minashi scoffs, seemingly amused by Sakura's actions. "Sakura-san, I don't bite." Minashi says. "So please, stop trembling and tell us what's on your mind."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXtogYVvwB1
Sakura looks at Minashi for at least two seconds before sighing. "Y-your surname.." Sakura says. "Namikaze is t-the surname of our f-former fourth hokage. Are you related to him?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7DqtZrPisr
"We are his children, Sakura-chan." Naruto is the one to answer. "Our father is the fourth hokage."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHb8RqTaFee
"WHAAAAAAAAAAAT????!!!!!" The whole class erupts into shouts of disbelief.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjqNXjnrLM0
Minashi rolls her eyes. "What a way to express your surprise." She mutters. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWVFg9B16QE
"But how come none of us know that?" Ino asks. "If you really are the children of the fourth hokage, then how come none of us have heard of you. It must've been announced or something. It's just suspicious."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFJnuo0JyY4
"Ino-dear.." Minashi says. "We're not going to force you to believe. That is up to you." She then turns to the wall clock. "Well, it's running late and the hokage is expecting us. So, I guess we'll see you guys some other time."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQS2oK37DFT
"Wait!" I hear someone tell and then I see Sasuke suddenly stand up and make his way to the front. Why? I have no idea.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Fv1370EJr
He stops not too far from Minashi and Naruto, glaring at the blonde bitterly. "Fight me, Naruto." He states. "Show me just how strong you really are."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMhdGR0Kz2b
"Sasuke, you are in no position to challenge Naruto-san." I immediately tell him. "Go back to your seat."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxrhxxulqHK
"Mind your own business." He Uchiha utters rudely, not at all breaking his glare at Naruto. "I am going to defeat him!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu4h8FExdHd
I turn to Minashi so I could ask for help but I see she's not doing anything. She just stares at Sasuke calmly.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYzoWFNwjfV
"Sasuke, I'd really love to accept." Naruto says, turning to Sasuke with a grin. "But I don't engage in needless battles. Besides, Minashi and I are gonna be late so w--"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVq6JUOVisx
"You're just saying that because you're a coward!" Sasuke yells, cutting Naruto off. "You're not even strong as you claim to be, right? You are weak!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGEdBbKkdG1
I am about to intervene again when I see Minashi gesture me to let him be. So, I decide to remain silent instead.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡShkR7wUU2d
"Strength is not determined by how many battles you fight, Sasuke." Naruto states. "Sometimes being strong means being able to know which battles must be fought and to choose how you make it end."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBHLscvBUhX
"Big words." Sasuke says. "Well then, I choose to fight you and I *am* going to defeat you."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsoyjTHJCjT
"That's not what I mean." Naruto groans, deadpanning.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAdViNXJRMa
Sasuke now does a fighting stance, making Naruto scratch his head in frustration. "Oh my God." He exclaims. "Why don't you get it? I. Don't. Want. To. Fight. You. Okay? So just stop it."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHFgCD8T4I6
Without wasting time, Sasuke launches himself at Naruto but then he stops himself, skidding a bit, when Minashi steps in between Naruto and him.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuDxfa8alYO
"Get out of my way, Minashi!" Sasuke yells. "I want to fight Naruto!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4lIT7qjCvG
"As fun as this may be, we are needed elsewhere." Minashi tells him. "Somewhere more important than this little challenge of yours.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3rNpRTttsu
"This will only take a minute." Sasuke insists. "I will defeat your brother before that." He adds in an overconfident tone.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0xD9tgx9sj
**Minashi Namikaze:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡML8S9Hcecb
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*Such a typical Uchiha.* I resist the urge to roll my eyes at Sasuke's arrogance. He really thinks he's better than Naruto when he's not even half of what my brother is.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXfrt7WWMVK
"Such confidence." I say in a mocking tone, smirking. "However, I highly doubt that."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ36osFx8Ou4
This immediately makes him glare at me. My smirk grows wider, knowing he's already getting angry. "What?" I ask mockingly. "I'm just saying. I *know* you won't last one minute against my brother."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMpZTOcfaqV
"Minashi, you shouldn't be making him angry, you know." Naruto tells me, looking at me with a raised eyebrow. "He'll only want to fight me even more."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDM5jnrotZY
The smirk I send my brother immediately makes him understand what I'm trying to do. Naruto sighs. "Fine, Minashi." He then turns to Sasuke, not at all showing any interest in the fight that's about to happen. "If you want it so bad, then come at me, Sasuke. See if you'll last one minute against me."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTBXkH5M4PX
With that said, Sasuke immediately dashes past me. I just sigh and stay put, not bothering to watch the fight. Naruto can handle him without my help anyway. Besides, it's better to sense than watch.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCdo9XkcYHd
So, I close my eyes to sense what's about to happen. True enough, Naruto counters Sasuke's punch with a backhand. Naruto then grabs hold on Sasuke's arm and flings him to the wall, Sasuke's back hitting the wall with a loud thud. Before Sasuke could recover, Naruto unseals four kunais that are all linked together by a chain. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhiLZk1c5sF
Then, with high accuracy, Naruto throws all four kunais at Sasuke. One kunai pierces the wall just above Sasuke's right shoulder and another above Sasuke's left shoulder. The other two kunais pierce the wall beside Sasuke's left and right hip. The chain attached to the kunais forms an X on Sasuke's chest and successfully pins him to the wall.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdaG5S8tZDH
"What the hell!" Sasuke yells as he struggles to set himself free but to no avail.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ80pJf8SEp8
"Just stop, Sasuke." Naruto says. "That's enough! You will only get hurt."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5s86FIefKp
"Coward!" Sasuke yells. "Using weapons to win! You call that fighting?!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtEubwFfIdh
"So what if I used weapons?" Naruto asks. "Did you really think I'd play it fair?" He shakes his head. "This is what it's like in the real world, Sasuke." Naruto mutters. "In a serious fight, survival can only be obtained if you learn to play by the enemy's rules. Which has only one rule actually - Never play fair."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDIWdAp9QCx
I turn around, smirking. "I told you so." I mutter, looking at Sasuke. "You should really listen, you know."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡilY9iFsDJ7
"Shut up, Minashi." Sasuke mutters narrowing his eyes at me.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj10lNGDUXJ
"Whatever you say." I mutter, snapping my fingers and resealing the weapons that have him pinned to the wall. "So, may we leave now?" I ask him.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlSpjQgCXh8
He just raises an eyebrow at me, making me nod. "Silence means yes." I tell him as I grab Naruto's arm. "Naruto and I will be leaving now." I then turn to Iruka-sensei and wave at him. "Bye, Iruka-sensei. See you whenever."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMBqSXAFpQ8
Then, I drag Naruto out the door. Once we're outside, and are out of hearing range, I let go of Naruto and chuckle. My twin shakes his head and sighs.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS13MNrOAF2
"You know, sometimes you're evil." He tells me.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuc1qg9JWzX
"He deserved it." I merely reply. "After being so arrogant and all."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRibkB1uUEt
"Well, I guess you're right."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8UQMRzAOXy
"Of course I am." I mutter.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcpVlt45bno
He grins. "Now, what do you say?" He asks, readying himself to run. "Race you to the hokage tower?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgujFcj3nvA
"Sure" I smirk as I also ready myself. "Last one gets to treat the winner to ramen!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpP0ephXLgx
"You betcha."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡopNzg2flsI
**Hiruzen Sarutobi:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIC8ZIQF6Gq
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I huff smoke from my pipe and then look at the piled papers scattered all around my office. There's still so much to do and less time to do it. Long ago, I would finish everything quickly so I would have free time to spare. But now, I guess I'm just getting old.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqb4uAuiVhJ
The door suddenly slams open, startling me. I almost dropped my pipe during the process. I then sigh once I recover and look at the people who just entered - Naruto and Minashi.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUGzdAimB6d
They are both sweating so much but are not out of breath at all. "Looks like I won this one, Brother." Minashi says, smirking at Naruto. "Ramen's on you."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVjJ26E0yEp
"Hey! No fair!" Naruto retorts, glaring at Minashi. "I tripped on a banana peeling! I could've won!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtQsfm8nCaq
"Of course you would have." Minashi replies, shaking her head in amusement. "You're faster than me, there's no doubt about that. But I guess lucks on my side today."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaaiT5aWJ4f
"Fine." Naruto says, sighing. "Ramen's on me then."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYi857OJvfa
After their little conversation, both Naruto and Minashi turn to me. Naruto winks. "Hey Gramps!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbc82Fv7eD3
"Another race, I presume?" I ask them although I already know the answer to that question.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6hr6G4P1ae
"Yeah.." Naruto replies with a huge grin on his face. "It's quite fun. And it helps with improving our speed."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjSEsQAq14Z
I smile at him. "Well, you're unusually cheerful today, Naruto?" I ask the energetic blonde. "You're usually grumpy during mornings due to *Minashi ruining your precious sleep.*"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNozok24aJv
"He woke up by himself today." Minashi answers, crossing her arms and shrugging. "He was excited to reveal our true identity to our said classmates."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5j4jlKxSjG
"I see." I nod. "How'd it go, then?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIZJS1sSr6N
"You should have seen their faces, Gramps!" Naruto chuckles. "They were so shocked to know that we are the fourth hokage's children. It's just so funny."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiUpsyWNSac
I chuckle. "Well, that's expected." I say. "After all, you played your role well."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡly60OMkRjj
"Not just me." Naruto says, wrapping his arm around Minashi's waist. These twins are so close that people who don't know they're siblings would mistake them for lovers. "Minashi also did a good job."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAcq2wO2Tpm
"Of course I did." Minashi says, rolling her eyes and smirking playfully. "I'm not even gonna enumerate the things I did last night just to track Mizuki's comrades."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDAIbwGBoUM
Naruto rolls his eyes. "Hey.. I was the one who bought you time to get rid of Mizuki's comrades." He says.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡStOXz0rInm
"That, you did." Minashi smiles. "Now, let's just ask for a mission. We're wasting Gramp's time." She turns to me and so does Naruto.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqxn6kqjZo4
I take out a scroll with all the listed B-ranked missions. "I've already assigned a mission for you, Children." I tell them.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIFq4nqlvPE
"You did?" Naruto says with a pout. "But it was my turn to choose." He whines in a childlike way.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡULUk1aIfyw
I sigh. "Well, I'm sorry but I find that you and Minashi are the ones fitting for this mission." I explain.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4a54G6xWZz
"Oh alright." Naruto says in a begrudging manner. "I guess it's okay."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO6iNfjlGRG
"Naruto.." Minashi says in a warning tone. "Mind your tone. You are talking to our Hokage."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe9gDznXy9p
"Yeah. I know." Naruto says, sighing. "So, what's the mission, Gramps?" He asks, this time with eagerness. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdoWa4K4Dbg
"It's a protect and escort type." I reply, looking over the right file.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8LpVssRyk5
"Who're we escorting?!" Naruto exclaims, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "An enchantress?! A beautiful woman?! A princess?!" He grins from ear to ear.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrwlzLgb9hc
I chuckle, amused by his actions. "Now.. now.." I say. "Don't get too excited, Child."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOMHwrnpuLP
"Who?! Who?!" He exclaims yet again.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLNut7LmPaK
"Naruto, you're being annoying again." Minashi is the one to tell him off. Naruto glares at her, making her raise an eyebrow. "Don't even think about getting me started again." She tells him. "Do you want to wash your own clothes next time?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5k2FvUJIy3
Naruto's eyes widen. "No!" He exclaims, grinning. "I was just glaring at you because of how cool you scolded me. I'm envious. Ahehehe.." He then scratches his head.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRPQ9epRfPx
With a shrug, Minashi turns to me. "Please continue, Hokage-sama."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWy0OQGZX81
I chuckle, amused at the twins. "You will be escorting Frost Akuma." I tell them. "He is the prince of the Land of Snow. And I also happen to be his godfather."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPumza8eIX7
"A prince?!" Naruto says, shoulders drooping and disappointment evident on his expression. "I was hoping it was a girl, believe it."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz2HlhDAWv1
"Now.. now.." I chuckle. "Don't be disappointed. He's around your age and once you get to know him more, you'll find he's quite interesting."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCM94ngDGe6
"I'm sure we'll get along just fine." Minashi mutters. "If he's not a jerk, that is."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaSGcsuW3Z8
I sigh. "That's what I'm worried about." I tell them before shouting a command to send the prince inside.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYUCx3tWMLM
**Minashi Namikaze:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5oH5TtaW3x
815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxrLDmkexnu
The door opens and a person enters - a boy that's just about our age. His hair is black and it is long, reaching up to his back. He currently has it tied into a loose ponytail.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Ju8VUp8RM
His eyes are emerald green in color but I also notice how it glows in a slightly visible, golden color whenever light pierces them. His eyelashes are quite long and the expression he wears is that of seriousness.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwb3oQQkWmB
His composure fits that of his title - a prince, as he stands firmly and confidently. However, I just can't help but raise an eyebrow as I focus on what he's wearing.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡICtN3N4e63
He is wearing a silk blue kimono that's coupled with silk black loose pants and sandals adorned with shiny jewels. All in all, anyone can tell that he's a prince just by looking at him. But, the bandages that cover his right arm is completely out of place. There must be something he's covering or, it could be nothing. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAUmBgygiS1
Settting my own thoughts aside, I bow my head at the same time as Naruto did.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcrsgKCDWi5
"Frost, I would like you to meet your escorts: Naruto and Minashi." Gramps says. "I believe it is up to you to fill them in on the mission details?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVCFYql6OSH
"I've got to admit, when you said escorts I expected someone *skilled*, Godfather." The prince comments as he looks at me and my brother from head to toe. His voice is husky, similar to Sasuke's, but a bit higher in pitch. "Not children who are more or less the same age as I am."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy6HmEmoZy0
"Whoaw.. Don't just go around judging everyone by the way they look." Naruto says, crossing his arms and raising an eyebrow. I can tell he's pissed. "We may be young, but we are no *children* either."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXyZqTE8cPr
"There really is no need for you to have me escorted, Godfather." The Prince says, completely ignoring my brother. "I'll be fine, really."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8UCLiC1mJ3
"How insolent." Naruto grumbles angrily, to which I just shrug and gesture him to keep his cool. And then, I focus back to the conversation.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvJ49zbZINE
"No. I must insist, Frost." Gramps tells Frost. "What would King Mashisa do to me if he learns his son is not treated well."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡENwItOTldz
I keep myself silent as Gramps and Frost converse. I observe Frost's actions. I can tell that he's trying to hide something. His movements are tense and his smile is forced. I can only think of one reason why he's acting this way. He doesn't want anyone to be dragged into whatever mess he's in.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFa9bPnVgwF
I know Gramps noticed it too. And being the Godfather, he knows he cannot leave Frost all by himself. Judging upon Gramps's course of action, he believes the situation is dire. And that's where Naruto and I come in.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSErfNcc4by
"Very well, Godfather." Frost says begrudgingly, smiling that forced smile once again. "I will take the escorts."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdbrhfyXOW6
"Splendid!" Gramps says, smiling. Then he turns to Naruto and me. "Are you all packed?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXlIsDMxpPV
"We are always ready for missions outside the village, Gramps!" Naruto exclaims.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjnBDHlLojp
"Good, then." Gramps says. "You shall leave as soon as you can. Frost will tell you the details of the mission while you're on your way."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxdX5zyQNbi
"Of course, Hokage-sama." I say and then turn to my brother. "Naruto, Buy the prince some new clothes. Bring him with you."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVuSam2Uu13
"Is there something wrong with what I am wearing, commoner?" Frost asks, raising an eyebrow at me.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡakrVDHZ73g
"Even an idiot can tell you're a prince just by looking at you, Your Highness." I mutter, raising an eyebrow of my own. "Or perhaps you're stupid enough to believe that nobody would notice you're a prince even though you're wearing *that*"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWuyz4SaM2S
His eyes seem to widen a bit before he settles with glaring at me. "How dare you speak to me that way." He says. "You are a commoner."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBUnm8epRe1
"Well, I am a special kind of commoner." I tell him. "I don't care if you're royalty. I will only grant you the respect that you deserve. And currently, you only have your title which doesn't really affect my views."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBAbovCsbp3
His glare intensifies by the time I finish and then he turns to Gramps. "Godfather, you allow her to speak that way?" He asks, looking incredulous as to why Gramps did not stop me. "She lacks discipline. You should have her punished."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2rSt4w5zD1
"Hey, Prince." Naruto mutters, defending me. "You don't go around someone else's village and tell their kage what to do. You have no power here."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh9LgZi3lPT
"Now now." Gramps says, stopping our argument. "There is no need to fight over such small things." He then turns to Frost. "I believe Minashi is right, Frost." Gramps says, turning to the said Prince. "You should get some new clothing."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGMNdLGmr6K
"You defend her?" Frost says, shaking his head in disbelief. "And here I thought you were a good leader. You're just an old man after all." He turns away, heading for the door. "Fine. I'll change my clothes."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPMuPeLPx0S
I gesture Naruto to follow him and my brother immediately obeys. "And nothing orange, okay?" I tell him, making him glare daggers at me. "Just making sure." I shrug.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ06ZsVXaZDe
With a sigh, Naruto follows Frost out of the office and once I sense they are far enough, I turn to Gramps. "Well, he's a jerk."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD39QklBYb9
Gramps sighs. "I know. I don't know what made him this way." He turns to me. "Will you accept the mission, then?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ34iEZtdeR
I smile. "Of course we are." Then, I turn serious. "So, what's his deal? Got anything to tell me?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3EyHDwWewZ
"Observant as ever, Minashi." He says. "You were able to know that he's hiding something. But I'm afraid I do not know what it is." He adds seriously. "He would not tell me anything."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrvIyX8Ton4
"I see." I reply. "But, why is he here anyway? He's a little far away from home, don't you think?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgbZgL69kPw
"His father, King Mashisa Akuma, is a friend of mine. About twelve years ago, he entrusted to me half of an ancient amulet." Gramps says. "Though the amulet looks like an ordinary one, it's said that it once belonged to a powerful Akuma. I don't really know the details but I believe the amulet was once used with some sort of forbidden jutsu."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM1ZVeqA7nv
"And Frost is here to take it back." I state. "But why? And why did he come alone if he is the prince? Shouldn't there be bodyguards?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2iYYfeAyMp
"That is the mystery, Minashi." Gramps says. "It might be too much to send you on a mission without a full background. Bu--"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKMAVjQeTJY
"We'll do it, Hokage-sama" I cut him off. "Whatever Frost is hiding, we will figure it out and help him through it."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLzag8POz4U
Gramps smiles. "I'll be counting on you, then. I owe Mashisa too many depts. It's time I repay him little by little."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXZrO6Ib015
I nod. "Well then. I will take my leave, Hokage-sama." I tell him. "We'll start the mission immediately."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbYdQKdmW56
"Oh, and as you can see, Frost might be a bit hard to handle at times." Gramps says with a smile. "Even I had a hard time trying to convince him to take escorts."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYu92Fm567J
"I don't know what he's like in the past." I say. "But I believe he has not changed. He's just trying to protect Naruto and I. Or more like he doesn't want to involve us in the trouble he's in. That's why he had said the things he did."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvMjHVxRdG8
"Minashi, your observation skills are excellent." Gramps praises. "I will count on you to handle things on your journey."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfaDtIRgf1G
"I will."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsl6trBR7Cd
~~~815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmmvA8x7QGM
**Naruto Namikaze:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3vQTqpaa8u
"I'm bored." I can't help but voice myself out.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡexXNRPLlqy
We've been walking for hours and hours already. If the prince weren't with us, Minashi and I would have made it to the docks by now. But unfortunately, it's him that we are escorting so complaining is not an option.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡggXsoRSBI1
Anyways, I'm glad the Prince is not wearing the kimono anymore. It's for his own safety, anyway. And I personally picked the clothing that he is wearing now: a sky-blue T-shirt with black swirls adorning it and black, loose, ninja trousers. As for his footwear, I chose dark-blue ninja sandals. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbTEAgkmBgV
I couldn't get him to remove the bandages that cover his right hand though; despite the fact that I insisted because I knew it would ruin the style. He's just really stubborn. Even more than I am.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ5iwEdrshf
"Hey, Prince!" I call to him, making him turn to me in an annoyingly graceful manner. "How far is your home?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHCiGtNnet6
"Complaining already, Commoner?" Frost says with an arrogant smirk. "You shouldn't have come if you're only gonna complain."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa9OVfrl40V
"That's it!" I spat angrily, glaring at him. "I've had enough of your crappy attitude! You think you're so great because you're a prince?! Well you're not! I bet you can't even defend yourself, right?!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2pWIPUee4d
He see him look at me hatefully before looking away and staying silent.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQdL05VGdJG
"So what now?!" I yell. "You're not gonna say anything?!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr32k54aWQg
"Naruto, that's enough!" Minashi commands and I turn to her. "Go over there and cool off. You've said enough." She says, pointing to the woods. "Come back when you're alright to travel with Prince Frost."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3M9Y6KvfvB
I scoff, glaring at the Prince one more time before leaping into the forest. "Oh and be on you guard!" I hear Minashi shout on the last second.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBXlW9l6nlL
**Minashi Namikaze:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHhtprNwCY3
I wait till Naruto leaves before turning to Frost. "I'm sure my brother will be alright soon, Your Highness." I tell him politely, resisting the urge to side with my brother. I have to be patient. "Please forgive the harsh words that he had said. I'm sure he did not mean it."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1qZgQ5oW8b
"He better be fast." Frost says in a rude tone. "He is wasting time."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhQf2RKdRuQ
"It would seem you are in a hurry." I say. "Why?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnbo2yF7iLy
"It's none of your business!" He says in a slightly risen tone. "Your job is to escort me! So just do it and then leave!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEztYu49C5U
He maintains a hardened front but I can sense all the emotions that he is emitting. One that is most clear is fear. "You are afraid." I state surely.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNaNlTqsCJI
"Afraid?" He scoffs, looking amused. "You're being delusional. A prince is never afraid!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPMB5G2djJN
"And yet you are, Frost." I tell him. He opens his mouth to say something but I cut him off. "You can deny it all you want but I know I'm right. You cannot hide all your troubles forever."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfIotEWHWEp
"It matters not." He says seriously. "You are not obligated to help me and there is no reason to get you involved in my kingdom's problems." He then points himself. "I am Frost Akuma, the prince and the only heir to the Kingdom of Snow. And my kingdom is my responsibility, alone."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAJRU0jdq3R
"Yes, you are the prince." I tell him just as seriously. I can't help it. His idea of being prince is all wrong. "But that doesn't mean that you have to shoulder each and every problem your kingdom encounters. A good prince knows when to ask for help from his allies so that he can protect his kingdom."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡetVNlm3Zo8
Just after I say that, I turn away from him. I don't want to lose my patience just talking some sense into him. I'll just let him be for now.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpncE23qDpi
"Your brother is right." Frost suddenly says, getting my attention. "I am nothing but a useless prince. I failed to do so many things. I've done things that are wrong. But at least now, the only right thing I can do is make you go back to your village."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡizXqtP3tzM
"And what makes you think it's the right thing to do?" I ask him.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgaYX1HVy64
"Because that way you won't have to die!" He yells angrily. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8MjkplxmHs
'It's just as I thought.' I can't help but think. The mess he's in, is a matter of life and death. No wonder he's trying his best to hide it. However, despite the things I'm thinking, I listen on to what he has to say.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2xY9NEj5Eh
"Can't you see?!" He continues. "I am trying to get rid of you! I am trying to make you hate me so you would leave me behind! So you would go back." He pauses. "Just.. leave."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC03lxSzBrx
"No." I state, making him turn to me, his face contorted in anger. "No matter how much you try to push me and my brother away, we are staying."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuwuFL9LW4t
He bares his teeth angrily. "You don't under--"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFlpRDLrgxe
"Oh don't even finish that sentence! It's you who doesn't understand!" I say in a risen tone, stopping him from saying anything. "Naruto and I, we are your allies. The only ones whom you can trust as of now. And yet you are pushing us away, treating us like we are only in your way! Remember this, Frost. When it's too late, you *will* regret it."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpzsZ9piKZ3
I look at Frost direly, hoping that he would at least listen to what I had said. If he doesn't, then there is nothing more I can do about it.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtDJ6YjE3TK
"I'm baaaack!" I hear Naruto shout as he emerges from the forest. "And I'm alright now. Let's get on with the journey." He adds with a huge grin on his face.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdzfYexyWdk
I smile at Naruto, forgetting about the argument that Frost and I had. I should give him time. Perhaps he might open up to us. *Perhaps.*815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQXCE0ZhMw2
And so, we continue the journey. I take the lead, with Frost following right behind me and then Naruto is at the rear. A few minutes pass by and nobody says anything.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7e2BxxZIbo
**Frost Akuma:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy7DlDlX99i
815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2SSglmvFH8
*Remember this, Frost. When it's too late, you will regret it.* Those words keep on playing in my mind. It makes me doubt the things I'm doing. And it's irritating me to no end.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡog50sO2J8P
Not once have I doubted my decisions. It is one of the attributes that make me worthy, being the prince. I always look over the consequences before making a decision and because of that, I come up with the best option there is.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcuIqk9hIgq
Before I came to Konoha, I did a lot of thinking. I weighed each and every possibility that I might encounter. And the best option I can come up with is to never let anyone interfere with the things I'm doing. It's for the best. Not only for me but also for the people who are willing to help me.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNUL27XJdL3
Suddenly, I feel Minashi grab my wrist and wrench me to her side. Then, I hear the sound of metal hitting metal ring through the air. I don't know what just happened. It was too fast for me to comprehend.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKfc6Z2CaV4
All I know is that now, Minashi is standing in front of me in a protective manner; golden chains with blades attached to each tip, dancing all around her. But the thing that confuses me is that Minashi is facing Naruto, ready to attack him anytime and Naruto is also doing a fighting stance, glaring at Minashi. *What is going on?*815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzO5RQ8xuC1
"What are you doing?" I can't help but ask. "He's your brother."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWBPZMhYEKG
"He is *not* my brother." Minashi answers me, only making me even more confused.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzNKKdp5Cnj
"You think I haven't noticed?" Minashi asks Naruto and I decide to remain silent. Whatever is happening now, I don't think I get it. Perhaps a sibling duel or something.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsZzrdCVsme
"Heheh." Naruto says, smirking. "You're good, Girl." And then, he explodes into smoke.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcUUVgM5PyW
Once the smoke clears, my eyes widen when I see a man standing there. I don't know him. In fact, I haven't seen him before. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6VunTjnjVy
The man seems to be more or less twenty years old. His hair is dark brown in color, coupled with black irises. His appearance seems ragged, telling me that this man is always on the move.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLLzxZTKPoo
He is wearing a dirty, loose jacket with the front opened so as to display his chest and abdomen. Pairing that, he wears a black, ninja trouser that stops just below his knee. Bandages then cover the remaining part of his uncovered legs. And then, for his footwear, worn out ninja sandals.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVmRlkkuJM6
A weapon pouch is attached to his belt and is placed on his right hip. Weapon holders are strapped to his each side of his thighs. As for his head protector, I see none. He's probably a mercenary.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDIYaWBlgFr
"Makito Tamari." Minashi says, the golden chains retracting to her back until they are completely gone. "Number 57 of the C-ranked criminals listed in the bingo book."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Vw5aToOuQ
"Well, you are well informed. For a girl." This said Makito says, smirk not faltering from his lips.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcT0FgtQ4cN
"To what do I owe the pleasure?" Minashi asks in a casual manner, as if she is not talking to an enemy. "You must be here for a reason, right?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1eBRpEjcDl
"Well, yes." Makito says. "Just hand over the Prince." He gestures to me, making my eyes widen. Me? "And no harm will come to you."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwz0jtsTaoq
Minashi chuckles. "I don't think so." She says, readying herself to fight. "Prince Frost is under my protection and I will be his shield until he is safely returned to his home."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa9HKk7bkKV
"Very well." Makito replies, also readying himself. "I was itching for a fight anyway. I do hope you'll last longer than the blonde one. He was quite easy to kill."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKnMZQi1Nvy
I let out a silent gasp when I heard what's been said. Naruto is dead? I immediately turn to Minashi, sympathy taking over every fiber of my being. She just lost her brother and I can't imagine the pain that she must feel.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC7264Oqnxa
"I see." Minashi mutters, clenching her fists angrily. "May he be at peace then."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw8cyazQJgR
I can't help but look away, feeling guilty about all this. It saddens me to see someone try to be strong even when they are hurting so much.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu5exuHawCc
"This is all my fault." I utter. "I.. I am so sorry, Minashi."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡabtP56p18k
"There is no need to apologize, Frost. This is a life of a ninja." She tells me proudly. "We all lose the ones we love one way or the other. But despite that, we have to be strong. So we would be able to protect those who need us." She then gives me a sad smile.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPgWJSmHnr3
"Just let him have me." I tell Minashi. "I don't want you to suffer the same fate as Naruto. Please."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsqy8vAXf33
"I already said it, Your Highness." Minashi says, smile not faltering. "Naruto and I will remain even if you push us away." She then turns to Makito, now wearing a smirk on her lips. "Give it your best shot, Makito."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFLlDMvfZQ0
"Summoning Technique!" Makito yells and slams his hand to the ground, making smoke erupt there. And when the smoke clears, I can see that he had summoned two gigantic tigers. "Heheh.. let's see you handle this, Girl."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhlu8CrbIIu
I scrunch my forehead once I realize something. What am I doing? This is not me. I clench my fists and look at the enemy with determination. I can't just stand here and do nothing!815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwS6FHEKna8
Without hesitation, I take Minashi's side, making her look at me in a questioning manner. I just smile at her as I remove the bandages that covered my right hand up till this time.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSWlXDYwKd8
"Minashi, I may not be a ninja like you are.." I tell her as I continue to remove the bandages. "..but I can fight. And there is no way I'm letting you fight him alone for my sake."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQO5rpUaB9m
I finish removing the bandages, revealing what I have been concealing up till now: the mark of the blade. It might look like a mere symbol of a sword that's burnt unto the back of my hand. But only few in our clan are blessed with this mark.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7cswCKwF8Y
I glare at Makito and whip my marked hand towards the ground. The mark glows with green and golden light before the said light forms a sword in my very hand. Then the light slowly vanishes and I now wield a sword that's adorned with a golden hilt and emerald gems.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyWKBJdSTuq
"Minashi, we will fight him together." I tell Minashi, turning to her with a smile.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnimAYWQGe0
She smiles back. "It's good to have you back on track, Your Highness." She replies before turning to Makito. "Did you hear that, Makito? You are outnumbered. And clearly outmatched."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWG23IL6xWs
"Hahaha!" Makito laughs. "You think a sword is going to scare me? I've seen worse. Believe me."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1KuclIE2no
"So confident.." Minashi says, chuckling amusedly. "You think you have won but you really haven't, Makito-dear."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEpRXmFS0cu
Just after Minashi says that, both of the tigers that Makito had summoned erupts into nothing but smoke.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgryLB2GsPa
"What the!" Makito exclaims, eyes wide as he whirls his head from side to side in panic.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJplJFFiSuZ
"Do not move." I feel relief immediately wash over me when I see the owner of the voice standing just behind Makito, pointing a dagger to the said mercenary's neck. Naruto. "Or I might end up cutting your throat off." He adds in a serious tone.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYF7SmHvTfI
Minashi chuckles. "Good to have you back, Brother."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxAA8yS7g1x
"Y-you?!" Makito says, eyes wide. "But I killed you! I saw you die with my very own eyes!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3zXi2k2Xlm
"Man, you must be really stupid." Naruto comments, rolling his eyes. "I used kawarimi on the very last second. But I poured more chakra into the technique to make the illusion last longer."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLsxIdXfqqm
"Damnit!" Makito says angrily. "I can't believe I fell for that!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtsrE4XVwMI
"You just did." Naruto says before he knocks Makito out. Then he turns to us. "Well, that was easy."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxZkr3GmmDq
"Tie him up so we can transport him to prison." Minashi commands, tossing a rope to Naruto. "And be fast. We have a boat to catch."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwAhmbVD8r9
"Yeah. Yeah." Naruto replies.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrKOZ8ZGsv4
**Minashi Namikaze:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1oiUg8UR6i
815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8d4dE83lSi
I walk up to Frost just as he makes his sword disappear back into the mark that he has on the back of his hand. Based on observation, it would seem that the mark allows him to summon a sword with the use of his will. I can also tell that he is well trained in wielding a sword by the way he held the weapon a while ago.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVV4vBJQgye
"Why do you hide it?" I can't help but ask him out of curiosity when I see him cover the symbol again. I don't expect him to answer my question though. He'll probably tell me to mind my own business.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtcFrr6cfSd
"It just reminds me of a memory that I long to forget." He mutters, and I've got to admit I'm surprised.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtfyy8POJ1V
He doesn't say anything more to elaborate and just concentrate on tying the bandages with only one hand. And let's say he's doing a messy job.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKZhQTcbcoV
So, I make my way in front of him. "Let me, Your Highness." I say, gently prying away his other hand and retying the bandages for him. Surprisingly, he lets me be until I finish.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjx81IVbk4f
"We should move soon." I say right after I finish tying the bandages. "We've wasted enough time here." I then turn to Naruto, who's currently tying up Makito. "Naruto, are you done yet?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA9ksJwWbMM
"Geez, give me a little more time. Will ya?" Naruto grumbles, glaring at me. "The guy's heavy and a little help would be nice."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTWVfpGe9ne
I roll my eyes. "Then why aren't you using your clones?" I ask him with a raised eyebrow.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOcW8XxEFf6
This makes him turn to me with a huge grin on his face. "Minashi, you are a genius!!" He exclaims and immediately creates two of his clones to help him out.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ13PQvPrmIB
I can't help but shake my head. *Sometimes, he just doesn't use his head.*815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfxSS62D4LD
"Minashi, how did you know about Makito?" Frost suddenly asks me, curiosity can be seen in his eyes.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIpsDZoECLh
"Well, let's just say he might have underestimated us a bit. He only hid his appearance and did not bother with masking his chakra. So, I knew all along that someone has been following us since the very beginning" I reply. "When you and Naruto started arguing, I found that as the best chance to send Naruto there and figure out if the person following us is an enemy."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDVDWGH7l2V
"And weren't you worried if Naruto would be attacked?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvauySyc8og
"Nah." I reply, shrugging. "I know my brother's capabilities. Makito did not stand a chance. However, Naruto did a pretty good job tricking Makito into believing that he was killed. Have you seen the look on his face? It was pure entertainment."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFi9BkDm8Bt
"So, you weren't worried about Naruto, then? If he got hurt, that is."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZWfIzFlCst
I raise an eyebrow. "So you've come to conclude that I am not a good sister." I mutter. "I can't blame you, though."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbyeOTxv9QU
"You admit it then?" He asks, looking at me as if I have done something wrong. "Your brother is not that important to you."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNXUVM5BLbR
This instantly makes me angry. "You think you can judge someone just by the way they act?" I state, glaring at him. "For your information, Frost. I care about my brother more than anything in this world."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV6dBajrAQq
He looks at me with a scrunched forehead. "If you think that, then why?" He asks, confusion clear in his eyes. "Why didn't you go and try to save him?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqfpdHiFyRR
"I already told you. I knew he could handle it. Besides, you needed me too, your highness." I state, making Frost widen his eyes. "I knew that if I left you, you might be taken. So, though a huge gamble, all I did was trust in my brother's capabilities and believe that he would be alright."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZD5OkYzxhv
"To rely on mere trust and belief." Frost utters. "The result was not determined and yet it was a success. I can't believe it."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmPWJ5yAYji
"Now, you should." I tell him. "You'll be surprised by the results."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDYLmD2k2qx
**Frost Akuma:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMxuCUR1HqF
815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0mYOKmKBnh
Indeed, I am. I find it quite bizarre, actually. Everything Minashi does goes against my principle. I'm all facts and practical decisions while she relies on trust and belief without even calculating the possibilities. And yet here I am, starting to think that she might be right. She's really something.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSGbMg0lr2U
"I'm done!!" Naruto and his clones all say in unison, making Minashi turn to him.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNGYogWqLpX
"Good." Minashi says and then crouches to the ground. With her eyes closed, she then forms a series of hand signs before her pointing and middle finger glows with chakra. After that, she spins around with her glowing fingers pointing to the ground, resulting in the formation of a circle of chakra around her. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwKJTsrJcfS
And then, with her glowing fingers, she draws runes inside the circle and writes a Japanese word that says 'prison' just outside the circle.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡidgpfyxl7n
Once she's done, she slams her hand on the center of the circle, forming a yinyang symbol there and making the runes spread out and arrange themselves accordingly. Now, there are two smaller circles made up of the runes, just beside the first circle that Minashi had made.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyGT47aVbEn
"Carry him inside the big circle, Naruto." Minashi orders, opening her eyes and positioning herself inside one of the smaller circles.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyaSQeHQzC4
Naruto immediately obeys, carrying Makito's unconscious body to the large circle. And when he's done, he positions himself inside the other smaller circle that's just opposite to Minashi's and does hand seals of his own. I wonder what they're doing.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ218IRR5enj
"Transportation Seal.." Minashi says, locking both hands into a hand seal.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDsP4PJtgAm
"Complete!" Naruto seem to continue what Minashi said.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4h6AiZW9H7
"TRANSPORT!!" Both the twins yell and the large circle glows brightly, making me cover my eyes. And before I know it, Makito is gone and so is are runes and symbols. There are even no signs that the ground was used to create a gigantic seal.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPK1NbZqZtb
"I wonder how much he was worth." Naruto says, grinning happily. "I hope he's enough to buy our groceries."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRhQboC79rA
"Let's just continue the journey." Minashi says, ruffling Naruto's hair. "You think too much about money."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrHkfkyqgZw
"Whatever, Minashi." Naruto says, smiling at his sister.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Zsq7M9ZbD
~~~815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCrC6JM9tho
**Naruto Namikaze:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTAfa3U5zvg
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It's been two days since we were attacked by Makito. No other enemies tried to attack us, so far. But I'm not glad about that. Minashi and I, we both know that the attacks won't cease. At least, that's how we have come to conclude Frost's trouble. And now, if the enemies are taking this much time before attacking again, then they must be planning something big and it worries me. Paranoid? Well, maybe I am. But I just can't afford to let my guard down even once.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpXycAdAcFJ
Minashi and I have been discussing Frost's probable situation every now and then. We are not quite sure about it yet since Frost doesn't tell us anything but we know someone's after him, or more specifically, the amulet that he carries. It must be so powerful if someone wants it that badly. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7OLLVpcVnP
As of now, we are still working on getting Frost to tell us. He's opened up to us a bit, to the point where he lets us call him by his name. But other than that, he's not revealing anything. 815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW9NIBZNhJP
Anyway, as of now, it's almost dusk but luckily, we have reached the docks. In great timing, the boat that leaves for the Land of Snow has just arrived and is calling out for more passengers.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC5ukKl5D5x
I can't help but groan as we near the said boat. I'm not that good with water transport. It makes me nauseous when I first set foot on it. But after a while, I recover. But not without mint.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg2RvpWRUPv
"Minashi, can you buy me some mint flavored gum?" I say, turning to my sister and making a puppy-dog face. I know she can't resist the cuteness. "Lots of it."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn1Vwv5BlZa
She sighs. "Sure." She answers, smiling at me. "Stay with Frost. I'll get you your mints." She adds as she lefts.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqrUzKzcxI1
"Your sister is quite something, eh?" Frost says, smiling as he looks at Minashi's retreating form.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmFhSlkZKyj
I can't help but narrow my eyes at him. "Hey.." I say in a serious tone, making him turn to me in surprise. "If you want her, you're gonna have to go through me."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLxHrq9CelK
His eyes widen as distances himself from me. "W-what?!.. no.." He stutters, his face turning red. "T-that's not what I m-meant! I was j--"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdbeLgIZqWu
"Hahaha!" I can't help but laugh, amused at his reaction.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Ivj3fSXoJ
"What's so funny?" He asks, looking even redder now.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8p7ohITbGR
"I was just messing with you." I tell him, grinning. "Don't overwork yourself. It's so funny."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2EWZIhXZbm
He glares at me. "You're mean." He says.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeCvHZGzNLh
I just grin at him before turning serious once again. "My sister is amazing." I can't help but say, remembering all the brave and cool things that she had done for me. "She's always there for me, protecting me and supporting me through everything. Although we don't have parents, it doesn't really matter. Minashi is there and that's enough for me." I add with a smile.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZa2EinDWHo
"I didn't know you had no parents." Frost says, looking at me in disbelief. "I.. I'm sorry." He adds, now sounding sympathetic.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQLwhzcIHFu
"Nah. Don't be." I say with a smile. "Our parents died, saving our village and us. It was a heroic act and we are proud of them."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwmQ4aSSeis
"Don't you.." Frost says, looking hesitant yet he continues anyway. "..you know. Blame them for leaving you at such times?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6bAGGGo6Dq
"Sometimes I think that." I tell him honestly. "But Minashi makes me think otherwise. She says it would be best to treat such events as a motivation to make ourselves stronger." I then smile, thinking about my sister once again. "My sister, she sees things differently. No matter how bad things go, she always sees something good in it. It's what makes her special, I guess."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCJZD2xnowF
Frost sighs and then smiles. "You really care for her so much, huh?" He asks.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡps1OwL8WNB
"I do." I reply, smiling. "I don't know what I would do if something happens to her and I fail to protect her."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxpQ5gbsj4T
Suddenly, a smaller version of the Transportation seal appears right in front of me. My eyes immediately widen and I step inside the seal, wrenching Frost to my side.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQyFICbaYod
"W-what's going on?!" Frost asks, surprised that I suddenly grabbed him.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYxE3rmjhDb
I immediately do hand signs. "It's Minashi." I reply. "She needs us." I finish doing the required hand signs and immediately slam my hand on the seal. "Close your eyes. This might be new to you." I instruct Frost just as our whole surroundings glows brightly and before I know it, we are already someplace else - in a forest of some sort.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgvYpgekHpe
I ignore the dizziness that clings unto me due to the transport and look for my sister. "Minashi!" I immediately shout and run over to my sister once I see her kneeling on the ground.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy1d7g3ULqh
I can see that she is already finishing up on bandaging an injury. The wound is found on her left shoulder. There are also some bruises and scratches all over her but the only serious wound so far is the one she is bandaging.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA3DKKVtDJu
"What the hell happened?!" I can't help but say in panic, kneeling down to her level and checking her for any other injuries. "Who did this?! I will kill him!!" I then stand up and look around for enemies, anger building up inside me. But I see no enemies.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGw170OclKy
"The enemy is gone." Minashi says, standing up and turning to me. "He left when I finished the hand signs for Transportation seal. It would seem he doesn't want the fight to prolong."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlFR7waueEP
**Minashi Namikaze:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnuQxldDIEq
815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoNAN4CyIXt
"You!!" Naruto yells, grabbing Frost by the collar of his shirt. "This is all your fault!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdBQD7NdgiM
"Me?!" Frost exclaims, knocking away Naruto's hand viciously. "I didn't even do anything!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa3kmRpFDc8
"Well that's exactly it!!" Naruto yells, glaring at the Prince hatefully. "You don't do anything! You can't even tell us who is after you or why!!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9fMnxXMC7u
This silences Frost but he glares at my brother just as hatefully.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUXzAcFSvMK
"See?!" Naruto groans, pointing to Frost with rage. "You go all silent whenever I bring it up!! What is it that you're so afraid of?!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMUxNeyZgbC
I decide it's time to step in between them. "Naruto, it's alright." I tell my brother. "Let it go."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVpxjeXzIKu
"Let it go?!" Naruto says in disbelief. "Minashi, you are hurt!" He then points to Frost in an accusing manner. "And it's all because he won't tell us anything about the enemies that we might encounter! We don't even know what the enemies would look like! Or the skills that they have!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwOkpAjbnU2
I can tell that my brother is pissed. And I know there is nothing that will calm him down when he is pissed because I was hurt.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt3a6WNNQjG
So, I let him be for a moment, letting him yell all the insults he can at Frost. I hope Frost can handle it though.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLx0eX3lMAz
After a few minutes, Naruto stops speaking and then leaps away. I know he's only going to get fresh air to calm himself. I then turn to Frost. "Forgive my brother's disrespect, Frost." I tell him. "I believe you understand why he is acting this way?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmxpR1657XC
Frost nods but he doesn't say anything nor does he make eye contact with me. He has his gaze fixed on the ground. However, I sense that he is feeling guilty about all this.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQFvnjHaYT5
"I know you're only trying to protect us, Frost." I tell him. "You think that keeping us from the truth would protect us." I add. "But it doesn't apply anymore. We've gone this far and if you keep this up, you would only end up getting us killed."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMadvwdfWEE
"T-then go.." Frost says weakly. "Leave me and you won't have to die. Just go."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlZuW3Rw5Yl
"We've already been through this, Frost." I state, feeling slightly angered that he is pushing us away again. "Our decision remains the same. Our lives, however, are in your hands. It is up to you."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH8OLVgNzMm
I then turn away but I don't leave. I just stand there and wait. "The boat might be leaving soon." I tell him. "We should board it now."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHFUZzXZrMG
"I'll tell you everything." He finally says, making me turn to him. He sighs and looks at me with eyes full of regret. "I'm s-sorry. I should have told you earlier. Now you're hu--"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaFKdsqi2rJ
"There is no need to apologize." I cut him off, smiling. "The wound will heal in time." I then stretch out my hand for him to take. "Let us go, Frost. We don't want the boat leaving without us."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBL1qxoIqEU
He takes my hand and we leave the forest together.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbzpsh5nnwd
~~~815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdFDf9rWS90
The boat then departs soon after the three of us board it. We then find our assigned room and then settle there. Of course, we had to share a room, just to be safe. And besides, it helps lessen the expenses.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhbrIimnhXD
"It's almost evening." I say, taking a scroll from my holders. "We should get some rest soon."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzg6HEitsSX
"Yeah." Naruto says, chewing his minty bubble gum. "But I'm hungry."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqVJwXfyOM8
"That's because you're still chewing your minty gums" I tell him.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFgmvGCgm2i
"I'll go and ask someone when they'll serve supper." Frost volunteers, leaving without even waiting for us to agree.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBzPMliMcFX
I sigh, letting Frost be. I already sensed the boat for any suspicious characters when we boarded it. And I found none. So, it should be safe to let Frost roam around without Naruto and I, supervising.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp9enhifrTA
"So, is he gonna tell us anything yet?" Naruto asks, taking off his jacket.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM3z99mhRhE
"He said he would." I reply. "He's just afraid, that's all. You should understand him."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeBxwBatSRO
"Yeah.. yeah.." Naruto says with a roll of his eyes as he walks into the shower. "I'll just take a shower. I'll do the understanding later." And with that, he closes the door.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgkf2iR90qn
I am left all by myself now and I can't help but feel worried. The wound on my shoulder is not normal. I've been wounded many times before and yet none of my previous wounds feel like this.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxIwGCVIAmi
It's as if thousands of needles are piercing the said wound at the same time and it hurts like hell. Whoever had attacked me, he must have done something to me.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1gDmwzxL6x
**Flashback:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡutSndJW8hm
815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFBW57o5xmz
"Excuse me....do you have any gum for sale?", I ask an old vendor woman. "The ones with mint flavor?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpfXPmpB2DW
"Oh! No dear." The old woman says with a kind smile. "Things like that are expensive. A vendor such as I am cannot afford it."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM4wcxno2tr
"I see." I tell her with a smile of my own. "Do you know where I can buy some?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHk4MpePOMD
"Try the big store at the end of the docks." She replies. "They should have some."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU3MZ3WTwjE
"Thank you." I thank her and bow my head slightly, readying myself to leave.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7jQi3qti1X
"Your Welcome dearie."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAjSGGGe6Cu
And so, I continue walking, looking for the big store that the old woman had mentioned. 'The end of the docks is father than I thought.' I can't help but think as I look around. It's already like a forest here. There are lots of trees that cover most of the terrain.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnwFTytgNLV
After a few more seconds, I start to sense people going about their own businesses somewhere in front of me. I quicken my pace and in no time, I found the store.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhSQDm91fGP
Despite the fact that the store is in a hidden part of the docks, there are many people here. Most are buying miscellaneous things from the said store. And some are doing other things. But I don't pay attention.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUUl7BZAxqo
I immediately ask for some mints. Once they give me the said items, I hand them my payment and leave. I've already been gone for a while. The boat might be leaving soon.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0UrqDq3Nsy
But then I suddenly sense something fast and small coming at me, making me immediately step to the side, dodging the oncoming object - a senbon needle.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡERR5JOuGE8
I then face the person who had launched it at me, looking at him seriously. As I can see, he is wearing a dark long cloak that reaches up to below his knees. The remainder of his legs are covered with bandages and he is wearing a wooden sandal.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2y1zRBOBsu
His hair is long and is kept in a messy braid. Half of his face is covered by a dark mask, concealing his mouth and nose. His eyes are dark green in color and are disturbingly lifeless.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXbclSXWGei
As for his chakra, it is not refined. Which tells me that he might not be a ninja. However, based upon how he threw the senbon needle and the katana he has strapped to his hip, he must be good at wielding his weapons.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMC0mBupQN0
"Who are you?" I ask him.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8VK61vkEso
Instead of answering me, he throws a number of senbons at me in a very quick pace. I manage to deflect it all with the use of my adamantine chains.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUZtgkd28GJ
However, the man is quick to unsheathe his katana and start attacking me. He aims to cut my stomach, to which I block with the blades that are attached to my chains.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjMvhYxEuT2
He immediately slashes at me once again, this time a whole lot fast. My chains can barely keep up with him. Fortunately, I'm still able to block it. We continue the fight for a few seconds more.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGgEpAV1wzh
"Tch!" He says, clearly angry that none of his attacks had reached me.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYvFBAXPFqv
Then, he does a stance, running both his middle finger and pointing finger to the blade of his katana. When he does that, red symbols and markings appear on the blade of his katana.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZO6uReJxY8
After that, he charges, throwing senbon needles at me as he dashes. I immediately block his attacks. Once he's near me, he immediately swings a downward vertically slash at me. I, however, move to block it with my blades.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFcldApEXR4
As his katana is still locked with my adamantine blades, he suddenly thrusts his blade further and to my surprise, his weapon cuts right through my chains. I immediately move away but his katana had already slashed my left shoulder.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6QBaAa3ejP
I hiss, feeling the small wound hurt intensely. But I am able to kick the enemy away before he could do me any more damage.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdjPru18Xbn
Then, with gritted teeth, I look at my wound. The veins surrounding it had suddenly turned dark. I then narrow my eyes at the enemy's katana. It's probably not an ordinary katana, judging from the way it just went through my chains and create a wound that hurt so badly.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkslAhZGVuQ
In this case, I'm gonna need Naruto. So, without wasting time, I immediately weave hand signs and slam my hand on the ground, making a mini Transportation Seal appear there.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUCgxbbFyzv
I then turn to the enemy but he's no longer there. Even when I tried sensing, he's nowhere near me. So, I unseal a bandage from my scrolls and start dressing the wound.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDphSKJAr4f
**End of Flashback**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR3bDtvpCte
I remove the bandages from my wound and remove my tunic, leaving me with only a tube brassiere. Then, I face a mirror and I can see that the darkened veins had already spread, dulling the color of the skin where the veins had spread to. I wonder what's going to happen?815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtkvt9ygB5p
The door suddenly opens and Frost enters. I turn to him. His eyes immediately widen as he turns away. "M-minashi!" He exclaims, turning red by the second. "I-i'm sorry. I didn't mean to barge in like that."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3pHmN6fOfF
I just smile. "It's alright." I tell him as I unseal a bandage and some medicine. "I'm just gonna change the bandage on my wound." I sit on the floor and ready myself.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeS9AyIMfrx
"Wait.." Frost says, making his way in front of me and kneeling down to my level. His eyes should concern and horror as he stares at the wound, even brushing his hand over it. "This wound.." He says. "It can't be."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeB7aUFVSkm
"WHAT THE HELL!!!" I hear Naruto bellow really loud once he comes out from the shower. "I'M ONLY GONE FOR A FEW MINUTES AND YOU'RE ALREADY MOLESTING MY SISTER?!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXgKDS5tl9W
"N-naruto!" Frost's eyes widen as he distances himself from me. "It's not what you think."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk3wR4PUzSf
"NOT WHAT YOU THINK MY ASS!!" Naruto yells, flinging soap in Frost's direction. "Take that!!" He then grabs a snow globe on a shelf and throws it at Frost, to which Frost catches and puts it down gently.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaFb4WmeqmN
"Naruto, listen to me!" Frost yells, gesturing Naruto to calm down but Naruto doesn't listen and continues yelling and throwing anything he can at Frost.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf4lDJYOe7S
After a whole minute, I grow tired of Naruto's ranting. "Naruto, could you please stop your ranting and listen to Frost?" I tell him.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb05j7luq9z
"Minashi, he touched you!" Naruto exclaims. "And while you're only we--"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH8bHstwPxz
"I know what you saw!" I yell, cutting him off. "But you're over thinking things. Listen to the guy!"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡithOmgayLD
Naruto glares at Frost. "Why were you touching my sister while she only has her bra on?" Naruto asks slowly, narrowing his eyes at the intimidated Frost.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFXtNY9bpj4
"Her wound." Frost blurts out. "Look at her wound."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDrw0p3x4N8
**Naruto Namikaze:**815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu9VQcUI3tL
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I turn to Minashi, looking at her wound. My eyes widen once I see it. The cut had turned black and veins that are surrounding it had darkened.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhMsOoKpPX5
"Minashi.." I say, walking near her and looking at the wound closely. "Does it hurt?"815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ08p8CdzR6z
"Yeah." Minashi replies. "Like hell it does."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA6zK39wvJm
"What's wrong with it?" I can't help but ask. "It's.. it's.."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡufLJtlaWu0
"It's poison." Frost is the one to finish what I said. I immediately turn to him. "Minashi has been poisoned. And it's slowly consuming her body. In time, she won't be able to move."815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFdl8XtJOPg
He ends what he had to say right there and I can't help but turn to Minashi, worried. What are we going to do?815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP24XIgioAL
---815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbDwoYdWs5a
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End.815Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoX9nm1ddj1
Up next on The Lethal Duo, Chapter 4: Time is Less
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