Lethal Duo (A Naruto Fanfiction) - Chapter 3: The Mysterious Mission

Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto. :-) But I sure love it! ^_^654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9b69GpzJzQ

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**Iruka Umino:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxKuGD964oZ
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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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWYw9XABHeP

"Team seven!" I announce. "Sasuke Uchiha! Sa--"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCDapqsTtVs

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlAw2mgGEne

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAoySe3VmDE

"Well, I *did* say I'd come." He tells me with a smile. "And here I am now."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdcyQGBwkS6

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdpfsPOq6po

He smiles."Relax, Iruka-sensei." He tells me. "Nobody's getting hurt."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoh7ZyHegqd

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgRDNSwdHZZ

"Good morning, everyone!" Naruto says, smiling at his classmates.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo0MLwiWShK

"What are you doing here, Naruto?" Kiba asks, giving Naruto a skeptical look. "Only those who graduated are allowed in here."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx7kjgTxYK8

"And what does this look like to you, Kiba?" Naruto asks, pointing to his head protector that he currently has tied to his forehead.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNWhrT4c6Cc

"Are you serious, Iruka-sensei?" Ino asks, looking at me. "You let *him* graduate?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbHhIYfAeKB

"Yeah." Sakura adds. "No offense but he doesn't look like the type who'd graduate."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPtHwCoaPYT

I sigh, knowing this would happen. I'm not surprised though.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡolrnm87aoc

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUghw9mG3SZ

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?654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKqfMC66yiQ

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHsVpPZ0PT7

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1aDKOwvy8r

"Well, it's true." Kiba speaks up, making me turn to him.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEMMkkCZUgB

"Kiba.." I scold him, my tone hard and reprimanding. "You're being disrespectful."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwAg4yJu7sv

Kiba turns to me, looking incredulous that I just defended my most mischievous student. I also feel looks of disbelief from my other students.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡChsb5B5uVP

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ35hiiXsxTj

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDZwc8E8spM

"What's that supposed to mean, dumbass?" Kiba says, looking irked. Akamaru also growls lightly at Naruto.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0sqInAEaSx

"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?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQiRQGk3B1y

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!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjNr0pd0KdQ

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3yydeIeidI

"Whoaw." Kiba mutters, admiringly looking at Minashi from head to toe, not at all recognizing the person in front of him. "Who are you?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxsAg6rpYcP

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIeYJ2Uhr7f

"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?!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN7Es3uXu02

"Duh." Minashi answers and the whole class erupts into shouts of disbelief. No doubt they don't believe what they see.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHZ9zyqXAOc

"You look so different!" Kiba says, looking at Minashi once again. "Wow!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFGk5KE9LFZ

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhgH7NXGv94

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNfFWdK2W2C

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡttRvJVcYJk

"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!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ18P5nQM5Zo

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPwej7I1Su9

"Heh.." Kiba says, smirking. "Threaten me and Akamaru might just bite you."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfLunkizpKD

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVAZ8GV113o

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?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDp4lzIzsRW

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3dK3ePZFu3

"What the!" Kiba exclaims in disbelief. "Akamaru?!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeCXyUFw6y7

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡquX2DeRkKP

"O-okay.." Kiba says, seating himself on his desk. Though it's quite clear that he's still surprised.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZvIq7GMOPk

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgIOcl7R6ie

I can hear murmurs from the whole classroom. Most students don't believe the things I had said.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPmkL3HvIDE

"Most of you don't believe it, I see." Minashi says, looking like she could care less. 654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxlDcIJWQxJ

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb3Q1yhee4e

"Judging me and my brother by the way we look, huh?" Minashi says, looking at Ino. "A stupid choice, really."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIIs81T4gFG

"What?!" Ino shouts, looking infuriated. "How dare you, Minashi!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJQNS3WBiJC

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAwQl1Lzg4C

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhYTTQLoWFz

As I can observe, Ino had frozen in place, not at all expecting the attack. I can even notice her shaking in fear.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRGtInP6akl

"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?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPd4W5zH0s1

"Y-yes." Ino stutters, sitting back into her desk.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6rpRfa2jDh

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcy9cDyWPtm

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdvzpyURP9u

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsVJu5NI8mc

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM6FyYfbJX7

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?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8vuwolTtiO

"We are his children, Sakura-chan." Naruto is the one to answer. "Our father is the fourth hokage."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiOamjLxEyg

"WHAAAAAAAAAAAT????!!!!!" The whole class erupts into shouts of disbelief.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs8F1Spdtxz

Minashi rolls her eyes. "What a way to express your surprise." She mutters. 654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXyE53YFszN

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNykOgltruK

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBejQJIWkEy

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOvzM83xGMo

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrPZalfS0qk

"Sasuke, you are in no position to challenge Naruto-san." I immediately tell him. "Go back to your seat."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡldZ58UBclg

"Mind your own business." He Uchiha utters rudely, not at all breaking his glare at Naruto. "I am going to defeat him!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRJg7GMKmhd

I turn to Minashi so I could ask for help but I see she's not doing anything. She just stares at Sasuke calmly.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXaXdmGpgzG

"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--"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKw6nQOXZKS

"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!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡENUSpFrqE7

I am about to intervene again when I see Minashi gesture me to let him be. So, I decide to remain silent instead.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9VL8rN3Klp

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh704IdhbHT

"Big words." Sasuke says. "Well then, I choose to fight you and I *am* going to defeat you."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDdGX8PNcaR

"That's not what I mean." Naruto groans, deadpanning.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKovDc4bT3l

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1qqP67eHWS

Without wasting time, Sasuke launches himself at Naruto but then he stops himself, skidding a bit, when Minashi steps in between Naruto and him.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAfb1fwotRc

"Get out of my way, Minashi!" Sasuke yells. "I want to fight Naruto!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoHmEdHfhI8

"As fun as this may be, we are needed elsewhere." Minashi tells him. "Somewhere more important than this little challenge of yours.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUKKV7171lX

"This will only take a minute." Sasuke insists. "I will defeat your brother before that." He adds in an overconfident tone.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUUXcnnyJvw

**Minashi Namikaze:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKUBM7CTeNP
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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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ClulY8bCi

"Such confidence." I say in a mocking tone, smirking. "However, I highly doubt that."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7JmAFIYkaW

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfURk1CgPlr

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA35lVPMZoV

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkbWUDldhv5

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUiT1p5r8ut

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. 654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3PzoTrp3v5

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCYEn2tOSpa

"What the hell!" Sasuke yells as he struggles to set himself free but to no avail.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLoEqipT9OH

"Just stop, Sasuke." Naruto says. "That's enough! You will only get hurt."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK5kelgX6Uo

"Coward!" Sasuke yells. "Using weapons to win! You call that fighting?!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Xt0pGiRTs

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQc5fH7UVf2

I turn around, smirking. "I told you so." I mutter, looking at Sasuke. "You should really listen, you know."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiLgNzlUh41

"Shut up, Minashi." Sasuke mutters narrowing his eyes at me.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuCXJF6vO4X

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVfSgOahM37

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ56Opy9DWnh

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM705cAk4YD

"You know, sometimes you're evil." He tells me.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrusr9gDILM

"He deserved it." I merely reply. "After being so arrogant and all."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAnmXPlYbxO

"Well, I guess you're right."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ25DDsWB1bn

"Of course I am." I mutter.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAQL8z9ayOb

He grins. "Now, what do you say?" He asks, readying himself to run. "Race you to the hokage tower?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkV0yIwor45

"Sure" I smirk as I also ready myself. "Last one gets to treat the winner to ramen!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg1sR49IwPE

"You betcha."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgqngaZn6ly

**Hiruzen Sarutobi:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3vDGu2zsGa
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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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmKZ5CtzEh6

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGZQolYxIdS

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5nuyj7S4yE

"Hey! No fair!" Naruto retorts, glaring at Minashi. "I tripped on a banana peeling! I could've won!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRa6swwpNuk

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcYbPsisYcW

"Fine." Naruto says, sighing. "Ramen's on me then."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIHqJOTyddC

After their little conversation, both Naruto and Minashi turn to me. Naruto winks. "Hey Gramps!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4RkynTgJTw

"Another race, I presume?" I ask them although I already know the answer to that question.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw41Kf4PmHQ

"Yeah.." Naruto replies with a huge grin on his face. "It's quite fun. And it helps with improving our speed."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrSo7qo53qr

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.*"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn3sQEZ4veW

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL1E9O1m0wo

"I see." I nod. "How'd it go, then?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZsCAlEESiG

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1B2F7CZIn5

I chuckle. "Well, that's expected." I say. "After all, you played your role well."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj5HOzWF8Mt

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ95uFPcCZLZ

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMJ4lvhpnhB

Naruto rolls his eyes. "Hey.. I was the one who bought you time to get rid of Mizuki's comrades." He says.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVoUB6N7hLv

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyoXQRG6OV6

I take out a scroll with all the listed B-ranked missions. "I've already assigned a mission for you, Children." I tell them.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEEftdkiz5X

"You did?" Naruto says with a pout. "But it was my turn to choose." He whines in a childlike way.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOQ2qhyKOhx

I sigh. "Well, I'm sorry but I find that you and Minashi are the ones fitting for this mission." I explain.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp0dMMkvZqI

"Oh alright." Naruto says in a begrudging manner. "I guess it's okay."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOXDpgbDiJk

"Naruto.." Minashi says in a warning tone. "Mind your tone. You are talking to our Hokage."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9COep11LXw

"Yeah. I know." Naruto says, sighing. "So, what's the mission, Gramps?" He asks, this time with eagerness. 654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeTQlbwR209

"It's a protect and escort type." I reply, looking over the right file.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdNuDnijQyw

"Who're we escorting?!" Naruto exclaims, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "An enchantress?! A beautiful woman?! A princess?!" He grins from ear to ear.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaHMGPeRJ33

I chuckle, amused by his actions. "Now.. now.." I say. "Don't get too excited, Child."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6rwrIopGor

"Who?! Who?!" He exclaims yet again.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKJDCltqDAx

"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?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYSEaaA4ES2

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv7sP8gnPJR

With a shrug, Minashi turns to me. "Please continue, Hokage-sama."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZrrQcTxrRz

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1i6BS6MFHc

"A prince?!" Naruto says, shoulders drooping and disappointment evident on his expression. "I was hoping it was a girl, believe it."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ15ATQcuDP2

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyVQn2O1rjc

"I'm sure we'll get along just fine." Minashi mutters. "If he's not a jerk, that is."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRmHVuqnj67

I sigh. "That's what I'm worried about." I tell them before shouting a command to send the prince inside.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhN40qWmSRz

**Minashi Namikaze:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpsdLE4MPIM
654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyGn2Qk6qJe
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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOnMvYq1AAG

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDfD1Qvixqn

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4QjuXFEJjz

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. 654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBpU4vRary6

Settting my own thoughts aside, I bow my head at the same time as Naruto did.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPFordPf3D7

"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?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZvGwblYMS

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡet8q1SVOWD

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkWOVSuYnS5

"There really is no need for you to have me escorted, Godfather." The Prince says, completely ignoring my brother. "I'll be fine, really."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWCg4aysFVS

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsFCa3RaMvW

"No. I must insist, Frost." Gramps tells Frost. "What would King Mashisa do to me if he learns his son is not treated well."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPFL0BQBnWs

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq9MDFnONIg

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgDYp84ygnK

"Very well, Godfather." Frost says begrudgingly, smiling that forced smile once again. "I will take the escorts."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1yXFtvqoJC

"Splendid!" Gramps says, smiling. Then he turns to Naruto and me. "Are you all packed?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjwQba3EEb9

"We are always ready for missions outside the village, Gramps!" Naruto exclaims.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTUays9bi6t

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0bTxO8DFZv

"Of course, Hokage-sama." I say and then turn to my brother. "Naruto, Buy the prince some new clothes. Bring him with you."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdOBzQc1PBU

"Is there something wrong with what I am wearing, commoner?" Frost asks, raising an eyebrow at me.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXxTm52Zcvn

"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*"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOSFOVTrrTE

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpVyeXu7B28

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdHfR3am99B

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Va8EINToi

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaPe1mW1p5L

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEVYMK3o3at

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKxrvAIvjkY

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy7grsiJRCk

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNkSTzLVSZ2

Gramps sighs. "I know. I don't know what made him this way." He turns to me. "Will you accept the mission, then?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZanu5RirbT

I smile. "Of course we are." Then, I turn serious. "So, what's his deal? Got anything to tell me?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Ai98Crz3v

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLaMUg72vUv

"I see." I reply. "But, why is he here anyway? He's a little far away from home, don't you think?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKirweykQlt

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjwRT26xrwg

"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?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoAjsJByPXX

"That is the mystery, Minashi." Gramps says. "It might be too much to send you on a mission without a full background. Bu--"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXFj9fnIbKm

"We'll do it, Hokage-sama" I cut him off. "Whatever Frost is hiding, we will figure it out and help him through it."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEcx7dr1OG0

Gramps smiles. "I'll be counting on you, then. I owe Mashisa too many depts. It's time I repay him little by little."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbu8Tc9TLh7

I nod. "Well then. I will take my leave, Hokage-sama." I tell him. "We'll start the mission immediately."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6VH2J1ltU9

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkDGIEfXTJ9

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8SgC9ToFua

"Minashi, your observation skills are excellent." Gramps praises. "I will count on you to handle things on your journey."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6FG2IcrlxR

"I will."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHAjsOur3Ho

~~~654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxA1Pyrtt22

**Naruto Namikaze:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaZyOTyHV6G

"I'm bored." I can't help but voice myself out.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnYjNhqmmEp

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpAQP1lU0r3

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. 654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCBfBdwIlY6

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3zP7KECFrA

"Hey, Prince!" I call to him, making him turn to me in an annoyingly graceful manner. "How far is your home?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyJJ2r4OQLO

"Complaining already, Commoner?" Frost says with an arrogant smirk. "You shouldn't have come if you're only gonna complain."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwmNpqrlknB

"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?!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxYwAt4wxAf

He see him look at me hatefully before looking away and staying silent.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLXoBqECNAj

"So what now?!" I yell. "You're not gonna say anything?!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE6jgCrtzL0

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2T40vl4K8c

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8V6bMvpFaw

**Minashi Namikaze:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE70di2d2Jv

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKxDzqKopYm

"He better be fast." Frost says in a rude tone. "He is wasting time."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡANQ9X3ZClI

"It would seem you are in a hurry." I say. "Why?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUHMn3FGZcd

"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!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzRSsjBl5eY

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSVYXFv9j4v

"Afraid?" He scoffs, looking amused. "You're being delusional. A prince is never afraid!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ZPKfVldMl

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡndoZXJV4T5

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz2BfX3FLw6

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW40hEgKDrO

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2eIJ1uWe2Z

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7NsL5aIo1E

"And what makes you think it's the right thing to do?" I ask him.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOr2SSUAVq1

"Because that way you won't have to die!" He yells angrily. 654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE0WX5c8pzt

'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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo1Gtr40WDK

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy7APv9cW6b

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIiyqiNwoGR

He bares his teeth angrily. "You don't under--"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVsEzIe9rZv

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQz0t7ZtZeF

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGw8d4vaduw

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLrhSz8oEuV

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.*654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8jbRSRxwGd

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyAs8XtrMTb

**Frost Akuma:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfRi1Z7Z7Pe
654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb4H0jnG0hh
*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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRu63BGSMIX

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmnKvQ11hAc

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsJNhk7x4oG

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLonCs81OzA

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?*654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm0WQ3QtUYf

"What are you doing?" I can't help but ask. "He's your brother."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7EPGj8tznb

"He is *not* my brother." Minashi answers me, only making me even more confused.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6bkMDV6VzY

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡchg1VJjjyt

"Heheh." Naruto says, smirking. "You're good, Girl." And then, he explodes into smoke.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNIB53sKiGQ

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. 654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3psWmKitWN

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7si3DBYoFw

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhfiuwA1sxj

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUI6XdlnByt

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDdcZPN5zEr

"Well, you are well informed. For a girl." This said Makito says, smirk not faltering from his lips.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxINI3p9gfW

"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?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNLqFWWhSTX

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWz8GZ5AqB9

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡreXlvceRan

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUuIACgW4sy

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzWF6LEelgp

"I see." Minashi mutters, clenching her fists angrily. "May he be at peace then."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz8wx6kM7hC

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCd4Xf2CmI9

"This is all my fault." I utter. "I.. I am so sorry, Minashi."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv9kecnZtnL

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzyMW0T3Y3Z

"Just let him have me." I tell Minashi. "I don't want you to suffer the same fate as Naruto. Please."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxLpe8li5SA

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdIPbttaVac

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZe6vrJOTac

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!654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVSX1kJO0S4

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzy09NR7CNJ

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZQ1RflMIWo

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡILJOXPhIaT

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0EYyXsmxMY

"Minashi, we will fight him together." I tell Minashi, turning to her with a smile.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDqCVuYcxdo

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4JTysAIAXm

"Hahaha!" Makito laughs. "You think a sword is going to scare me? I've seen worse. Believe me."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWsEvKgtFUw

"So confident.." Minashi says, chuckling amusedly. "You think you have won but you really haven't, Makito-dear."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKM4GZ26Lx8

Just after Minashi says that, both of the tigers that Makito had summoned erupts into nothing but smoke.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpJomSaqwuD

"What the!" Makito exclaims, eyes wide as he whirls his head from side to side in panic.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYjPCWnthFX

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhmNH5xLMSg

Minashi chuckles. "Good to have you back, Brother."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkHKQuRyIYf

"Y-you?!" Makito says, eyes wide. "But I killed you! I saw you die with my very own eyes!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNpkDGYSNpO

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLuRwUkuqsD

"Damnit!" Makito says angrily. "I can't believe I fell for that!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4BYkg5XBCk

"You just did." Naruto says before he knocks Makito out. Then he turns to us. "Well, that was easy."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqQDfbWbzt7

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAi2W5oUJcN

"Yeah. Yeah." Naruto replies.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEukbaBv6XL

**Minashi Namikaze:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXALZK7Ic5k
654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeArJoCB5bd
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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9vXHD9UqvR

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0qlZxF592T

"It just reminds me of a memory that I long to forget." He mutters, and I've got to admit I'm surprised.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMxr0WdwHg6

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpGN5HUQPgj

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcGBtUvbilJ

"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?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2CqUt82JiM

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRSkBRYH8CG

I roll my eyes. "Then why aren't you using your clones?" I ask him with a raised eyebrow.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD919PW7lxp

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnHmMzFWDxD

I can't help but shake my head. *Sometimes, he just doesn't use his head.*654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8bqhgj7qqJ

"Minashi, how did you know about Makito?" Frost suddenly asks me, curiosity can be seen in his eyes.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjx2buTb6CH

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwpHdHN0PCg

"And weren't you worried if Naruto would be attacked?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZR5gI12JCp

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe4PfjFIOZt

"So, you weren't worried about Naruto, then? If he got hurt, that is."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuyiJ8Y9N55

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOQRMh92Iog

"You admit it then?" He asks, looking at me as if I have done something wrong. "Your brother is not that important to you."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz9DGelS4A2

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKbERqxaLKr

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?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡairmcQZ77z

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFHsy0FJpcT

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbgAjVoqfkn

"Now, you should." I tell him. "You'll be surprised by the results."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaQ9NzNbiai

**Frost Akuma:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmWA7nT5BYw
654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz5iQpshLHv
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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwbD4Y7j4Xd

"I'm done!!" Naruto and his clones all say in unison, making Minashi turn to him.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwflqlmFziT

"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. 654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCDvqwmADth

And then, with her glowing fingers, she draws runes inside the circle and writes a Japanese word that says 'prison' just outside the circle.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ73aneML8Ss

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOAiJEX1rIC

"Carry him inside the big circle, Naruto." Minashi orders, opening her eyes and positioning herself inside one of the smaller circles.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn7WrwKYIth

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcu9umVb95U

"Transportation Seal.." Minashi says, locking both hands into a hand seal.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKs4QSRLhgq

"Complete!" Naruto seem to continue what Minashi said.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4sNrQhkY5l

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd7CZ4rm2fZ

"I wonder how much he was worth." Naruto says, grinning happily. "I hope he's enough to buy our groceries."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOoBSTmIWHj

"Let's just continue the journey." Minashi says, ruffling Naruto's hair. "You think too much about money."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUe8fpNoqp

"Whatever, Minashi." Naruto says, smiling at his sister.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXcRhNNVGXZ

~~~654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGKgkKUYgEr

**Naruto Namikaze:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgSim0Z8y2a
654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡih2sRavVpv
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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMWRhJy3MgM

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. 654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgIw7zNT6P7

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. 654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWY6LAhutq6

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXrbsy4cfgV

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjzkh5Vhq70

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcsh74bkior

She sighs. "Sure." She answers, smiling at me. "Stay with Frost. I'll get you your mints." She adds as she lefts.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡerPiXU5kHZ

"Your sister is quite something, eh?" Frost says, smiling as he looks at Minashi's retreating form.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsZ15OtMKde

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsvWxil6XTO

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--"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs2eYU9crL3

"Hahaha!" I can't help but laugh, amused at his reaction.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKqJ9SMSVYU

"What's so funny?" He asks, looking even redder now.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9dFIhcIe3M

"I was just messing with you." I tell him, grinning. "Don't overwork yourself. It's so funny."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOmSFej60ZV

He glares at me. "You're mean." He says.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE7OK1Se3RA

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt2sKj5BIhO

"I didn't know you had no parents." Frost says, looking at me in disbelief. "I.. I'm sorry." He adds, now sounding sympathetic.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4DMt3rUUU6

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHPZZyJMfa

"Don't you.." Frost says, looking hesitant yet he continues anyway. "..you know. Blame them for leaving you at such times?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFTUWzOPkMv

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIRiUwznHzv

Frost sighs and then smiles. "You really care for her so much, huh?" He asks.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ogQQw7f21

"I do." I reply, smiling. "I don't know what I would do if something happens to her and I fail to protect her."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpNaUD65GhD

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzolGze9Re0

"W-what's going on?!" Frost asks, surprised that I suddenly grabbed him.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPxcLyN5ld5

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX3xetKhj2e

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCBIqsDQxAp

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU2fYEP9CBz

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlOsHiDJ0ki

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNfyVwMXpJi

**Minashi Namikaze:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGUn1gdJStP
654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSzHDL5HfSg
"You!!" Naruto yells, grabbing Frost by the collar of his shirt. "This is all your fault!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjldd9jHcRV

"Me?!" Frost exclaims, knocking away Naruto's hand viciously. "I didn't even do anything!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDrRhbniuIL

"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!!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxZ1t4GxXtm

This silences Frost but he glares at my brother just as hatefully.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOUjocTjTJ7

"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?!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1p4X4TjhOj

I decide it's time to step in between them. "Naruto, it's alright." I tell my brother. "Let it go."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1mSk43DOne

"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!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3f7jVIk4Th

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFWvnqN9iN2

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtxpNn8h24T

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?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpzuS1FEVfb

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAlvq4CQUki

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf0pbWVoueU

"T-then go.." Frost says weakly. "Leave me and you won't have to die. Just go."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrQV0bRaE8C

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmIREutNJJG

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF7V17lj5ml

"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--"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZz58unHg5m

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRcYRuykdUJ

He takes my hand and we leave the forest together.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZD5jwCCxbt

~~~654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP9J2EKIMg4

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwldZ1j9Ig0

"It's almost evening." I say, taking a scroll from my holders. "We should get some rest soon."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJxY0FlrPP1

"Yeah." Naruto says, chewing his minty bubble gum. "But I'm hungry."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8nOPl0Er9Y

"That's because you're still chewing your minty gums" I tell him.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡclMjCU9bNN

"I'll go and ask someone when they'll serve supper." Frost volunteers, leaving without even waiting for us to agree.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWYoTfx0PRi

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzhzC4uVvIO

"So, is he gonna tell us anything yet?" Naruto asks, taking off his jacket.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaLNyVNuwTF

"He said he would." I reply. "He's just afraid, that's all. You should understand him."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSpJFJTtS2s

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3I5Pzc29h7

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh0e03Ytqq1

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXSIO9PiObx

**Flashback:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNSrFwh0fJ9
654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGDfgQBoqSS
"Excuse me....do you have any gum for sale?", I ask an old vendor woman. "The ones with mint flavor?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡURc77ZtAW0

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu0Rour5Jz7

"I see." I tell her with a smile of my own. "Do you know where I can buy some?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYBcMksqcTq

"Try the big store at the end of the docks." She replies. "They should have some."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwnK1mGFT2e

"Thank you." I thank her and bow my head slightly, readying myself to leave.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqe5yPO3cxd

"Your Welcome dearie."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ50ZTJsdrF2

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXz9UVdy9hb

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHPjjAtAJ8A

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5GTAuyojH9

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaacATR7947

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO68SPI3qFL

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcGNgi9FJ6V

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU3fxF8i25w

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHFLQyCh7bv

"Who are you?" I ask him.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdggD2xHNMh

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ97yJ1yb8u3

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9KViOL894J

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ6Tpu9oDxR

"Tch!" He says, clearly angry that none of his attacks had reached me.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Kp3LROWhN

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyhZQHB4cUV

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3PcT4KE7EC

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHxW9wptZN

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQDHMji4NBw

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWJiVdzEXKY

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEXfZno8OaF

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7oj8CNYsJC

**End of Flashback**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0KsC7bqlWd

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?654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxwvkznctT8

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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdKt8rFbg6E

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiwLysVyJZl

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwPfw3QuOfS

"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?!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡusppWEHNAZ

"N-naruto!" Frost's eyes widen as he distances himself from me. "It's not what you think."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo4de0Y4tRa

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpASDSojJHN

"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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgB88LWlEBf

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtWHoM1E6qc

"Minashi, he touched you!" Naruto exclaims. "And while you're only we--"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhp3igsWpNH

"I know what you saw!" I yell, cutting him off. "But you're over thinking things. Listen to the guy!"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT43w4nYdEP

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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOIlbBasQf1

"Her wound." Frost blurts out. "Look at her wound."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfm1WxOKDCn

**Naruto Namikaze:**654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡldbPlQThLb
654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Bu9JVwHci
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.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrfzEaXAEQs

"Minashi.." I say, walking near her and looking at the wound closely. "Does it hurt?"654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡarXfuy1s56

"Yeah." Minashi replies. "Like hell it does."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLBsuWz7PB4

"What's wrong with it?" I can't help but ask. "It's.. it's.."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ16xDH8NXzH

"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."654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDSDibkLtPt

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?654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3RF5mLbT5u

---654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU3psEEjrzx
654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6SGDuAIoRv
End.654Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyHwnJ6N15v

Up next on The Lethal Duo, Chapter 4: Time is Less

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