94Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto or Fairy Tail.
"Speaking"
'Thinking'
"Dragon/Magic/Jutsu."
Chapter 1. The Night that Changed Everything
(Konoha)
Jumping from rooftop to rooftop, Itachi Uchiha moved across his home village with a heavy and burdened heart. His mind played through the last hour where he had cut down his friends and family without any remorse and left his brother alone as the soul survivor of their clan. Yet despite Itachi's normal cold and stoic exterior, he found it impossible to completely suppress his emotions. He was shaking and his mind kept questioning why things couldn't have been different? Why did he have to take such a drastic action to protect his village and brother? Why was he so powerless to stop these events from happening?
However, a memory suddenly flashing across his mind from a clone he left behind at the scene of the massacre. Itachi momentarily halted his escape and recollected the memories he had received. Learning his clone had made contact with Hiruzen and managed to establish a last minute meeting with the Hokage in secret to discuss a few things. Though Itachi also saw how his clone had dispelled itself only after threatening Danzō to leave Sasuke alone.
"I should keep moving and meet with Lord Hokage. I only have so long till the ANBU start mobilizing across the village and I need to warn him about this Tobi man." Jumping forward with a burst of speed, Itachi quickly made his way to where the Hokage would be waiting for him.
Blazing under the moonlit village with skill and stealth, Itachi's eyes were constantly on a swivel. Considering the longer he was within the village the more dangerous things would become for the kinslayer. However, taking notice of something off in the distance Itachi momentarily stiffened up and jumped into cover, as he saw two masked individuals. Believing the ANBU were already scanning the village for him, but upon closer inspection he realized the two individuals with blank masks were something much different.
"ROOT?" Itachi mumbled softly, as he stalked closer towards the Danzō loyalists. Knowing it wasn't common to see these individuals running around the village even at this time of night. "Just what do you have up your sleeve?"
Getting closer and closer to the two conditioned shinobi, Itachi's eyes grew wide in surprise. This was because tucked between the arms of one of the ROOT operatives was the young blond Jinchūriki of Konoha, Naruto Uzumaki. A sight that instantly made the genius of the Uchiha clan connect the dots.
"I see, with the confusion of the massacre this would be a perfect moment to take Naruto right under Lord Hokage's nose." Itachi mumbled softly, while the devoted Konoha shinobi grabbed a kunai from his side. "Unfortunately I won't allow you to succeed."
Moving without making a sound, Itachi displayed exactly why he was an ANBU Captain at such a young age by appearing behind one of the ROOT members and slitting their throat from behind. Then before the individual holding Naruto could react, Itachi threw his bloody kunai into their neck. Causing them to fall over dead, but not without Itachi snatching Naruto out of their hold. Yet as Itachi stood over the two slain ROOT members with Naruto in his arms, he was left with a new predicament.
"If Danzō is really trying to get his hands on the Kyūbi's power then it's not safe to leave Naruto alone." Itachi mumbled softly, as he knew even using a clone to take Naruto somewhere safe could be a risk. "So the best move would be to take Naruto with me and hand him over to Lord Hokage personally."
Knowing time was growing shorter and shorter, Itachi ran off as fast as possible with Naruto in his arms. Hoping no more distractions would throw a wrench in his plans. Luckily enough for the kinslayer, Itachi eventually made his way to a secluded location where Hiruzen was waiting. Though upon seeing his subordinate holding Naruto of all people, the God of Shinobi had a rather confused expression.
"Itachi what's the meaning of this? Why do you have Naruto?"
Sighing and walking forward, Itachi handed Naruto over before kneeling. "I was making my way here to meet with you Lord Hokage when I ran into some of Danzō's ROOT carrying Naruto. I believe he was trying to use the confusion to steal Naruto without anyone noticing so he could indoctrinate Naruto into his ranks."
Holding tightly onto the small child, Hiruzen was beyond furious. Yet at the same time he looked down to Itachi with respect and admiration, while a small idea came into his mind. "I see, thank you Itachi. Yet again you displayed how irreplaceable you are to this village. I would have never thought Danzō would use this incident to further his own power."
"He's someone that must always be watched carefully, but I have more information to share if I may?"
"Of course speak freely."
Itachi nodded. "The man who helped me tonight was a masked man named Tobi. I haven't seen his face, but I know he has the Sharingan. He's dangerous Lord Hokage and has extended an offer for me to join some organization he is a member of. Apparently it's a group of highly dangerous rouge shinobi. He didn't share much except for their vision of world domination through the control of the tailed beasts."
Hiruzen frowned softly at this. "I see, this is troubling news. Especially for the safety of young Naruto here. I'll pass word along to Jiraiya. I'm sure he can learn more about this group through his spy network."
"With all respect Lord Hokage, I can easily infiltrate this group and leak you information. There is no need to waste Lord Jiriaya's resources to this."
Hiruzen closed his eyes and took a moment to think to himself, but after a few moments of silence the Hokage opened his eyes and looked at the small blond in his arms. "Actually I have one final mission for you. A SS-Rank mission that only you can complete."
Surprised by his leader's words, Itachi lowered his head further to the ground. "What can I do Lord Hokage?"
"Tell me Itachi, you're a smart boy. If I were to ask you who Naruto's parents are. What would your guess be?"
Looking up, Itachi was slightly confused, but regardless he answered honestly. "With his features, last name, age and status as the holder of the Kyūbi the only logical answer would be Lord Minato and his wife Kushina. I also remember Lady Kushina telling my Mother she was pregnant near the time before the Kyūbi incident."
Hiruzen simply nodded, as Itachi lived up to his title of a genius. "I promised myself when they died I would protect their son, but unfortunately it seems I keep failing them time after time. The village hates Naruto, he's always alone and now people have already tried to take him for the power he holds and I fear things will only grow worse with this Tobi man. Especially when more people learn he is not only a Jinchūriki, but also Minato's son. So since I am a failure to young Naruto maybe it's time I place him in the care of my most loyal and dependable shinobi?"
Itachi was in disbelief at what the man was insinuating. "Lord Hokage I believe you're overestimating my abilities. Without question I will be branded as a wanted man for my actions tonight. There is no plausible way I could properly watch over Naruto with such a large target on both our backs."
Lowering himself on one knee to lock eyes with Itachi, Hiruzen merely smiled and drew a circle into the dirt followed by another circle a few feet away. "You know Itachi, what many don't know is that our world isn't the only one out there. Pretend this circle here is our world, while every other circle represents a world completely different. Some are a strange reflection from our own, while others are completely different altogether. Yet do you know what connects these worlds?"
"I don't have the slightest clue Lord Hokage."
Smirking and drawing lines between the circles, Hiruzen chuckled. "The different summoning realms are the links that connect all worlds. So tell me Itachi, if I were to offer you an opportunity at a new life within a new world where you weren't branded a wanted man and kinslayer would you take it?"
Itachi thought long and hard over this question, as it would be nice to not always be looking over his shoulder. Yet he had to ask himself if he deserved such a luxury of a new life? His single purpose for leaving Sasuke like he did was so his brother would grow up to bring justice onto him for the crime of killing their clan. Believing death by his own precious brother was the only road fate had in store for him. However, here the Hokage was giving him a second option.
"Of course you wouldn't be alone, as I would request you take Naruto with you. The boy needs someone in his life that he can call a friend and you are even skilled enough to train Naruto to protect himself. It's a win win really, you get a new start and Naruto will be safe with a better life."
Itachi momentarily thinking over the possibility lifted his brow. "And what would you say to Naruto's sudden disappearance?"
Grinning like a madman, Hiruzen gave the boy a good laugh. "Why that's simple! Naruto was stolen by the power hungry criminal Itachi Uchiha!"
Itachi blinked at this, but couldn't deny it was a believable reason with some truth to it.
"Sending Naruto away like this isn't very Hokage like. Shouldn't you keep Naruto within the village to foster his growth and loyalty? After all, don't villages like to keep an iron hold on their weapons?"
The aged man chuckled and shook his head. "I've never seen Naruto as a weapon, just a boy dealt a bad hand in life much like yourself. So maybe it's time we reshuffle the deck? Wouldn't you agree?"
"Even if I would say yes Lord Hokage, I don't deserve a second chance. I may have committed the sin of slaying my clan for the greater good. However, I still need to be held accountable for my actions. I deserve death not a new life."
Hiruzen nodded. "You're burdened by what you have done, I understand that and you can repent for your actions Itachi, but not by throwing your life away."
"Then how should I? By living a carefree life?"
"Who said a new life would be easy?" The jaded and wise man asked with a slight chuckle. "Believe me Itachi you won't have it easy, but you'll get a once in a lifetime chance. Not only at a new life, but a chance to redeem yourself for your actions by helping someone else. Someone who needs this just as much if not more than you."
The kinslayer glanced at the blond within the Hokage's arms and sighed. "If I agree to this mission I do have one request."
"I'll do whatever I can Itachi."
"Protect Sasuke for me." Was the simple request to which the Hokage nodded to. "And keep him out of the reach of Danzō and the council."
"I'll do everything within my power." Hiruzen began, while revealing a storage seal on his wrist. One that with a quick puff of smoke provided a scroll that the Hokage handed to Itachi. "Take this, it's a copy of everything Minato and Kushina left for Naruto. It will help you mold him into a proper shinobi."
Tucking the scroll into his pocket, Itachi nodded. "I'll do my best, Lord Hokage."
Handing the unconscious Naruto over to Itachi, Hiruzen stood to his feet and prepared his chakra. "I know you will, but I'll summon Enma and he will take you and Naruto to the monkey realm and then transport you somewhere new. Are you ready?"
"I believe so Lord Hokage."
"Then I wish you and Naruto both the best, you deserve it after all." Hiruzen replied as he bit his thumb, flashed through a set of hand signs and slammed his palms into the ground. "Summoning Jutsu!"
(Earthland, Fiore X778)
Under the shroud of a star filled night, a plume of smoke suddenly erupted off the side of a cliff. Slowly disapparating to reveal Itachi who was still holding an unconscious Naruto and looking directly at a large humanoid monkey. Who was the boss of the monkeys and trusted ally of the Hokage, Enma.
"Well here we are."
Looking around, Itachi noticed they were on the side of a cliff, while a dense forest surrounded them on all sides. An observation that made the teenager lift his brow, as there wasn't any sign of civilization for miles.
"And where exactly are we?"
Enma folded his arms and his tail swayed behind his back. "A world called Earthland. It's not like the world you're from, but it's close enough. You'll find plenty of humans who speak your language, but no one here has the ability to use chakra. Instead this world is built around magic."
"Well that's interesting. Anything else in particular I should know?"
"Unfortunately that's the extent of my knowledge, I've never really traveled to this world, but a few elders in my clan have told me stories. Hiruzen says you're a resourceful boy, so I'm sure you'll make due with what little you're given."
Itachi nodded and slightly bowed. "I understand and I thank you for getting me this far Lord Enma."
Enma waved his hand and closed his eyes. "No need to thank me child, I was just helping Hiruzen. That old bastard seems to respect you a decent amount. Though here is some advice kid, try to enjoy this second chance. Not many get this."
"I will Lord Enma." Itachi replied as the summon vanished in a burst of smoke. Leaving Itachi alone with the unconscious Jinchūriki he was now responsible for. "Best find a place to make camp for the night."
Walking off with Naruto, Itachi wandered through the forest until he found a small clearing. Then by laying Naruto against a tree he created two clones both of whom acted without any instructions needed. One clone silently began to build a fire, while the second surveyed the area for any potential danger. Leaving the original Itachi to slowly relax his body against a fallen log. His onyx eyes looking up into the star filled sky with an exhausted expression, as within the last few hours he had slain his family, been branded a traitor and was now looking up at an unfamiliar sky for the first time.
It all felt a little surreal, yet as Itachi heard the crackling of a fire he looked forward. Finding his clone had dispersed upon completing its task. However, as the fire illuminated the small clearing, Itachi could see Naruto slowly stirring awake. An observation that made the raven haired teenager debate on how he should handle this situation.
Naruto himself softly groaned and started to stir awake, his eyes taking a moment to regain their vision. Though after a short moment Naruto finally took notice of his surroundings, as blue eyes were met with a soulless black pair.
"Who are you!" Naruto suddenly yelled loudly, while he jerked his head from left to right. "And just where the hell are we!"
Itachi sighed and closed his eyes. "You certainly live up to your loudmouth reputation."
Clenching his fist, Naruto shook his hand forward. "What the hell is that supposed to mean bastard!"
Itachi merely cocked his head and looked at Naruto with a blank expression. "It means you're loud if not also a little dense. However, I should at least show proper manners and introduce myself. My name is Itachi Uchiha, former shinobi of Konoha."
"Wait! You're a shinobi?"
Itachi merely nodded before his eyes shifted into his Sharingan. "Listen a lot has happened, but it's best if I just show you."
"What are you-. . ." Naruto began, but stopped once Itachi placed him within a Genjutsu.
From there Naruto saw everything Itachi wanted him to see, which was his kidnapping along with Hiruzen sending Naruto off under Itachi's care. Of course the Uchiha left a few things out like the slaying of his clan, as after all he didn't want Naruto to fear him for things he didn't understand. However, after showing Naruto everything the child needed to see, Itachi dropped the Genjutsu.
"Now, do you have any questions?"
Holding his head and looking at the ground, Naruto furrowed his brow. "So you work for the old man?"
"Well I did work for Lord Hokage. I'm no longer a Konoha shinobi."
"Because you were assigned to watch over and train me in this new world?" Naruto asked, which caused Itachi to nod.
"That is correct. Do you have any other questions?"
Naruto paused for a moment, as his mind was still digesting all the new information he was given. Yet after a brief moment he gazed up to Itachi.
"Why me?"
Itachi lifted his brow. "What do you mean?"
Clenching his fists, Naruto gave Itachi a hard look that slightly caught the teen off guard. It wasn't the frightened look of a child out of place, but the confident look of someone mature past their years. Showing the growth Naruto has undergone because of his burden.
"What makes me so special that the old man put me in hiding so no one could take me again?"
Understanding now, Itachi thought over his response with care, as he was now responsible for the well being of Naruto. So as such he needed to choose what to tell the blond with that goal in mind. Yet with the fate of his clan, Itachi had learned one crucial thing. That being secrets are dangerous and if he was to watch over Naruto in this new world. Then Itachi needed to learn from his past mistakes and do right by the blond.
"It's because seven years ago when Lord Fourth defeated the Kyūbi, he only did so by sealing the demon into a newborn child. That child was you Naruto, you are the Jinchūriki of the Kyūbi."
Naruto's eyes grew wide at this revelation, as everything was starting to make sense. The loneliness, the hateful looks and everything in between was all because Naruto held the demon fox within his body. A realization that made the blond grit his teeth and look down in frustration and sadness. His right hand slowly tightening around his midsection to help cope with the sickness he was feeling.
"However, despite this you are still Naruto Uzumaki and don't forget that. Never believe the lie that you're some monster."
Naruto's eyes snapped upward, as he looked directly at the emotionless teen. Who had recognized him by his name, something only the Hokage had ever done before.
"Thank you." Naruto mumbled softly, as Itachi's words meant more to him than the Uchiha knew. "But I have another question."
Itachi merely nodded his head and closed his eyes. "Well we have nothing besides time. So ask away."
"Why did the Fourth Hokage pick me?"
"Because you are his son." Itachi answered without hesitation, as he decided he wasn't going to hide anything from the blond. "His name was Minato Namikaze and your mother's name was Kushina Uzumaki. I can only assume Lord Third kept your name Uzumaki to conceal you from anyone wanting to harm or take advantage of you. Lord Fourth had plenty of enemies after all."
Naruto was once again completely stunned, as he had finally learned who his parents were. He wasn't just some orphan that people ignored. In fact his Father was his own personal hero and that made things even more unbelievable.
"I'm sure you're slowly getting overwhelmed with everything you're learning and I can't say things will get simpler from here. You and I are within an unfamiliar world that neither of us know much about. However, I will promise you this much Naruto. I will do everything I can to help mold you into a shinobi your parents would be proud of."
Naruto smiled at this, as he was starting to really like and admire Itachi. "Thanks, I guess I should call you Itachi Sensei then!"
For the first time in weeks, Itachi cracked a small smirk at the blond words. "Just Itachi is fine."
Naruto nodded. "Well then Itachi what are we going to do now?"
"We will rest here for the night. Tomorrow we will set out and try to find some civilization and try to learn more about this world. Once we have safely adapted to our new setting I'll begin giving you a proper shinobi's training."
"Sounds like a fun adventure to me!"
"That's one way of looking at it." Itachi replied in a blank voice. "But let's get some sleep. I'm sure tomorrow will be quite the long day."
Naruto nodded and tried to find a comfortable spot to sleep, while Itachi merely closed his eyes and kept to his own thoughts. Thinking his new situation was interesting to say the least, but didn't realize how much this new world and Naruto would save Itachi from his own demons.
(The Following Day)
Walking through a densely covered forest, Itachi and Naruto both kept a relatively moderate pace. It wasn't ideal, as Itachi was moving at speeds much slower than he was capable of, but having Naruto tagging along meant the teenager had to match the boy's pace. Either that or carry Naruto as they traveled, which wasn't something Itachi or Naruto were really keen on doing.
"So Itachi, what do you think we are going to find?"
Glancing at the small blond by his side, Itachi merely rested his hands into his pockets. "Your guess is as good as mine Naruto. For all I know we could be attacked and killed the moment we find civilization."
Naruto was slightly sweating, which was a reaction that amused the kinslayer.
"Or maybe a pack of wild beasts will make us their lunch." Itachi continued, as he watched Naruto's panic grow larger and larger.
"Of course I should be fine. I'm a trained shinobi and a former ANBU Captain, but you on the other hand." Itachi rested a hand on Naruto's shoulder. "Well I'll tell future generations about you."
"You bastard!" Naruto yelled loudly, while he shook his fists around. "The old man said you were supposed to keep me safe!"
"Oh is that so?" Itachi asked, while he felt an odd sensation of amusement sweep through his body. "As I remember it Lord Hokage wanted me to train you to be stronger. He didn't tell me to coddle you like an infant, but if I must then I shall. Do you need your diaper changed as well?"
Grinding his teeth in anger, Naruto glared up at the older boy. "Just you wait Itachi! I'll become a super strong shinobi and you won't be able to look down at me ever!"
A small smile forming on the corners of his mouth, Itachi merely lifted his brow. "You do realize for that to happen I'll have to train you. So who says I'll show you everything I know?"
Naruto was at a loss for words and his mouth was hanging open. A sight that made the older of the two smirk and poke the younger on the forehead.
"But I'm teasing of course, I'll keep you safe and make you a shinobi to surpass your own father. That's a promise."
Recoiling backwards and rubbing his forehead, Naruto grinned wide with a pleased expression. "Well in that case, I won't let you down!"
Nodding his head Itachi looked forward, his eyes growing slightly interested as he saw what appeared to be some form of civilization in the distance. Naruto himself saw this as well and beamed with excitement.
"Hey Itachi-. . ."
"Yes I know." The raven haired boy cut in, his voice both serious and sharp. "Listen as we approach, stay close to me and don't wander off. Just in case."
"Don't worry Itachi, I'll follow your lead."
Pleased to hear his young companion would comply with his orders, the duo slowly approached what appeared to be an opening in a circular wall. Yet this wall wasn't anything like the massive walls that surrounded their home village. No this wall was more primitive and was made from wooden poles dug deep into the ground. Of course within the walls were dozens of rather old and by Itachi's observations run down tribal houses. However, the most eye-catching location was without a doubt the cat shaped building in the center of what Itachi assumed was a village.
Though as Naruto and Itachi walked further into the village they weren't greeted or met by anyone in particular. An odd occurrence, as both Naruto and Itachi could see men, women and children all moving throughout the area, while appearing to mind their own individual business. Naruto being young and naive didn't really make much notice of this. Itachi on the other hand instantly knew something wasn't exactly right with this village they were in. Since everyone within the village seemed to move almost robotically and without much purpose whatsoever. So having an inner debate with himself, Itachi pondered on taking Naruto and leaving. Yet before he could voice himself to Naruto a girl seemed to take notice of them and approach them.
"Visitors!" The girl yelped in a surprised and excited voice. Yet as she made it within a few feet of Naruto and Itachi, she seemed to trip over her own feet and fall flat on her face.
Naruto seeing this instantly rushed over to the girl's side to help her. Itachi on the other hand merely observed from a distance, preparing himself to strike the girl down if she wasn't what she appeared to be. That of course being a relatively harmless girl around Naruto's age with dark blue hair.
"Hey are you alright!" Naruto asked as he helped the girl up onto her feet.
Laughing nervously and pretending she didn't scuff up her knees, the girl nodded. "Yup I'm fine! Thank you though! My name is Wendy Marvell and welcome to Cait Shelter!"
Grinning ear to ear, Naruto released a laugh of his own. "It's nice to meet you Wendy, my name is Naruto-. . ." For a moment the blond paused, as an idea came into his mind. "Namikaze and that over there is my friend Itachi Uchiha!"
Wendy beamed with a wide smile. "It's wonderful to meet the both of you! What brings you all the way to our guild? We never get any visitors! Are you two here for a mission request or are you wanting to join Cait Shelter?"
Itachi hearing the girl's questions was trying to piece together how this world functioned. Considering he was starting to think there was much more than just a small forest village. Yet before either Naruto or Itachi could speak, a voice beat both boys from another world to the punch.
"Wendy, who are these people?" A small white cat asked, as it slowly walked to Wendy's side.
Naruto's jaw was dropped at the sight of a talking cat, while Itachi wondered if it was some sort of summon.
"Oh Carla! Look, we have visitors! This is Naruto and Itachi!" Wendy introduced as she held her hands excitedly to the two boys.
"Woah a talking cat!" Naruto began as he bent down to look at Carla. "That's crazy!"
Carla seemed to study the grinning blond with a careful gaze, while Wendy just watched with a smile.
Itachi on the other hand glanced to the side and activated his Sharingan for a mere moment. Then with a quick glance he surveyed the area and came to a quick realization, which was that everyone except for Wendy and Carla were nothing besides illusions. This made Itachi both cautious and curious, while his eyes returned to their normal state. Yet before he could do anything a sound of footsteps reached his trained senses.
"Now what is with all this commotion!" A new and cheerful voice laughed out loudly.
Seeing yet another newcomer, Itachi snapped his eyes to the small and slim elderly man with a long white beard, complete with a mustache, which extended up on his face's sides, making for a large pair of sideburns. Yet like the people around the area he was dressed in similar tribal clothing. However, unlike the others he seemed to have more personality like Wendy and Carla.
"Master Roubaul!" Wendy chirped happily, while turning to the man. "I was just greeting our guests Naruto and Itachi."
"Oh! Well it's a pleasure to meet the both of you, I'm the Master of Cait Shelter, but you can just call me Roubaul!" The elderly man greeted in a happy voice, while slightly tilting his head. "How can I help you two?"
Making sure to keep his guard up and not give too much information up, Itachi merely gave a bow of respect. "We are simply lost travelers from a far off land. We were hoping to find civilization and learn where we are. Then we found your village, Cait Shelter I believe?"
"I see, but this isn't exactly a village! Cait Shelter is a wizards guild!"
Naruto squinted his eyes at this. "Wizard guild? What's that old man?"
"Why a guild is a place for wizards to come together and find work! Surely you've heard of wizard guilds before!"
Naruto and Itachi both shook their heads, which caused Roubaul to rub his chin. "Ummm well it seems you really are from far away lands then. If you would like I could explain things in more detail in our guild hall!"
Itachi folded his arms and nodded, as more information would be beneficial. "I would appreciate that Roubaul."
The aged man grinned wide and motioned for everyone to follow him. "Well come this way!"
The kinslayer simply nodded and walked with the man, but stopped the moment a smiling Wendy ran around the master's side.
"Master can I show Naruto around the guild while you talk with Itachi?"
Roubaul smiled softly, as he could see how excited the girl was to have another child around her age. "If Naruto has no problem with that then neither do I."
Said blond beamed with excitement and looked at Itachi for approval, as he knew the older boy wanted to keep him safe and play the situation safe.
"That would be awesome! You wouldn't mind right Itachi?"
Being placed on the spot, Itachi sighed to himself. Considering he knew the best choice was to make Naruto stay close to his side. However, both Wendy and Roubaul seemed friendly enough and didn't look like much of a threat. However, the deciding factor was what Itachi knew of Naruto's lack of friends. So something like spending time and befriending someone around his age meant more to Naruto than anything.
"If you behave yourself and make sure to call for me if you get in trouble. Then I have no issues with it."
Throwing his hands up in victory, Naruto grinned happily and ran over to Wendy. "Let's go Wendy!"
Giggling at the blond's energy, the two small children ran off with Carla following close. Leaving Itachi alone with Roubaul, but not before the former ANBU discreetly made a clone to watch over Naruto in the shadows.
"Well I'm sure the children will be fine, why don't we go talk?"
Itachi merely nodded and soon the two found themselves within the central building of Cait Shelter, which was a rather small and modest area with very little going on. In fact the whole area looked almost completely unused for years, which was another oddity on Itachi's growing list. Despite this, as Roubaul offered Itachi a seat the young shinobi accepted without saying a word. An action that made the master muster a friendly smile.
"So Itachi, what would you like to know?"
Studying the elder and friendly man, Itachi simply folded his arms and slightly leaned backwards within his chair. To most it looked like the teenager was getting comfortable, but in reality he was coiling back to strike at a moment's notice.
"Any information you have would be appreciated if I'm being honest. Considering I have no knowledge of this land's customs, geography, politics or even as much as a name. Yet before you get into that I have a far more serious question."
Roubaul lifted his brow, as he saw Itachi's gaze piercing into him. A look that slightly made the man feel uneasy around the shinobi.
"And that is?"
"What is really going on within this place? And don't lie to me." Itachi began, as his Sharingan spun to life in all its glory. "Naruto hasn't noticed, but I can easily tell those people outside are all fake. The only exceptions being Wendy and Carla."
Running his hand through his beard, Roubaul hummed to himself and thought over his words. "Hmmm you're an interesting boy. You're only here for a few minutes and already saw through my illusions, but they were made for a small child. So that should be expected, but there is no need for any concern. I have nothing nefarious planned, as these illusions are for Wendy's well being."
"Is that so? Well I will give you one chance to explain yourself. Because now that I've got a look at you with my Sharingan, I can see you're not exactly normal either."
Roubaul sighed, as Itachi was poking holes in his facade quite fast. So the man thought the best course from here was the complete truth. "Would you believe me if I said I was a 400 year old spirit?"
Itachi didn't show any reaction to this, but instead simply closed his eyes. "Well me and Naruto are both from another world. So honestly nothing at this point could surprise me."
Hearing Itachi's reply the master nodded. "I see that would explain your predicament and lack of knowledge."
"Yes, but now tell me why a 400 year old spirit is making illusions for a small girl in the forest."
"It's a long story, but all you need to know is that I have dedicated myself to protecting the world from an evil magic within these woods. However, a few years ago a boy left Wendy within my care and I crafted this illusion of a guild for her sake. After all it was better for a small girl to grow up alongside fake friends than growing up completely alone. Then some time later we found Carla in an egg and that's basically everything."
"I see, you've just been trying to help happily raise Wendy. That's good to hear." Itachi began as his eyes opened and his Sharingan was gone. "At least now I know I won't have to kill you."
Laughing nervously, Roubaul gave a slight bow. "I appreciate that, but I don't think you can kill someone who is already dead. However, why don't I help you now? I'm sure you have a lot of questions about this world."
"Yes, let's not waste anymore time."
(With Naruto)
Sitting at a bench with Wendy and Carla, the young blond was currently chatting up a storm with a wide grin.
"So you were raised by an actual dragon!"
"Yup! Grandeeney was also the one who taught me Sky Dragon Slayer Magic!"
"That's so cool ya know! You must be super strong!"
Wendy laughed nervously and held her hands up in protest. "Well I only learned healing and support spells, so I'm really not that strong actually."
"But you still know magic from a dragon! That's almost as cool as being a shinobi!"
"What's a shinobi?" Wendy asked, which made Naruto jump upwards in excitement.
"They are really strong warriors that are all boom pow and swoosh!" Naruto yelled happily, as he struck different poses with each sound effect he made. Then with a wide grin he placed his arms behind his head and laughed. "Itachi said he would train me to be a really strong shinobi like him!"
"So Itachi is like your teacher?" Wendy asked as she wanted to know more about the two boys.
"Yeah kinda, but Itachi doesn't like titles like that so I just call him by his name!" Naruto explained with a simple smile. "We haven't known each other for long, but our village leader wanted us to travel together and so far it's been a lot of fun!"
"Why are you two traveling together? Is it like a training trip?"
Naruto chuckled nervously at this question. "It's a long story, but the short version is that it's not safe for me back home. So our leader the Hokage sent me and Itachi here for my protection. Apparently Itachi is this really strong shinobi in our village and he was hand picked by the old man despite being so young!"
"Wow Itachi must be really amazing, but don't you miss your home and family?" Wendy asked softly, as a small flicker of pain flashed across Naruto's face.
"I uh, don't really have a family and no one back home really liked me." Naruto explained sadly, while he quickly faked a smile and pumped his fist out. "But that's okay cause now I got a friend like Itachi!"
Wendy smiled and held her hands out. "Well don't forget about me and Carla. We are your friends now too!"
Naruto's eyes quickly sparked with new found life and joy, as no one had ever declared him as their friend before. It was something that Naruto actually always yearned to hear from anyone he met.
"You really mean it!"
Wendy nodded without hesitation. "Absolutely!"
Carla merely sighed. "It's really not that big of a deal."
Naruto grinned ear to ear, as he was beyond happy to have an actual friend his age. "Well I have a question for you Wendy. Why exactly are you a member of a wizard guild?"
"Well shortly after Grandeeney disappeared I was found by a boy named Jellal. We traveled together for a while, kinda like you and Itachi, but he had a dangerous mission and left me here for my safety. I hope one day when I'm stronger I can find Grandeeney and Jellal again."
"That's a really great goal ya know! I always wanted to be the Hokage so people would respect me, but I can't really do that anymore! Hey maybe when I get stronger I can help you find your friend and dragon!"
"Really!"
"Yeah I bet it would be a fun adventure, but I don't know how much longer me and Itachi will be here. Hell I don't even know what our plans are."
Wendy lowered her head at this. "Hopefully you guys can stay a little while."
"Actually we are staying longer than you might think." The voice of Itachi spoke up, as the two children and cat noticed the teenager making his presence known.
"What do you mean Itachi?"
"I've decided while I'm training you it would be best for us to join a guild to have a stable source of income along with a place to live. So we are going to join Cait Shelter."
Wendy's eyes beamed with excitement. "That's great!"
"What Wendy said!" Naruto yelled with just as much enthusiasm, which made Itachi smirk.
"Well I wouldn't get too excited, as now that means I can start your training. And trust me I'll be ten times harder than the academy ever would have been."
Naruto pumped his fists and locked eyes with the older boy. "I'm ready for whatever you've got Itachi."
"Well then. Why don't we get started and make a proper shinobi out of you?"
(X784, Naruto age 13)
Walking forward with a stack of boxes in his arms, Naruto followed Wendy and Carla to the back of a train car. Yet as the trio walked by a group of Fairy Tail wizards talking amongst themselves, neither Naruto or Wendy noticed the group they passed. Instead the two young teenagers and talking cat found their way into their own booth, which caused Wendy and Carla to take their seats. Meanwhile Naruto practically spilled the boxes everywhere as he sat across Wendy and Carla.
"Now look what you did Naruto!" Wendy scolded in a soft voice, as she saw the blond roll his eyes.
"Hey don't start with me! I told you that you were buying too much!" Naruto shot back, while he grabbed a scroll and pen from a small pouch on his hip. "Plus I didn't have a chance to make a storage seal yet because we would have missed our train."
"But now you have plenty of time!" Wendy replied back with a happy smile.
Naruto huffed and started to make the seal. "I swear you only take me places to be your personal packmule."
"Oh that's not true Naruto! You know I love your company! You're my most precious person along with Carla, the Master and Itachi!"
"Speaking of Itachi." Carla spoke up, which made Naruto look up to the cat and away from his work. "Where is he exactly?"
"Last I heard he was going on an S-Class quest. So I'm sure it will be a week or so before we see or hear from him again. You know how that bastard is after all."
"Itachi is always working so hard! It makes me feel silly for taking all this time shopping instead of taking a quest." Wendy admitted, while Naruto waved the girl off.
"We do plenty enough, it's normal to want some time off to relax."
"Yeah, but we will never get Cait Shelter the recognition it deserves if we don't work hard like Itachi. Maybe we should join that guild task force the Master mentioned!"
Naruto lifted his brow and locked eyes with the Sky Dragon Slayer. "Wendy, do you realize that request is to fight and exterminate one of the three major dark guilds from the Balam Alliance? It's not really something geared towards your skill set as a support wizard."
"Hey I've gotten stronger thanks to Itachi helping me train, but that's not the point. I know it's dangerous, which is why the other guilds might need my healing and support magic!"
Naruto closed his eyes and inwardly smiled, as he always admired Wendy's desire to help others.
"That's a fair point, but I won't be joining the dark guild hunt. I already have an A-Class quest lined up for when I get back home."
"Well I could just go by myself as our guild's representative."
"Wendy that's too dangerous, if you go alone I won't be around to help you."
Wendy puffed out her cheeks and gave Naruto a playful glare. "I don't always need you around to protect me!"
"Is that so?" Naruto asked with a slight chuckle, while he slowly began to seal all of the boxes that Wendy had bought on their trip. "Because correct me if I'm wrong, but that's all I ever do on our missions."
Wendy slightly flinched, as it was common for Naruto to get her out of dangerous situations on their missions. Something she wasn't proud of, but at the same time it was something she wanted to change.
"You're not wrong, but it just makes me want to do this even more! I want to stand out on my own without you fighting my battles."
Naruto locking eyes with Wendy saw the girl was quite serious and now wasn't time for his usual jokes. Instead he merely sighed and closed his eyes. "Wendy I don't mean to be overprotective or anything like that. You're just important to me and I want to keep you safe at all costs. So at times I don't let you grow as a person and fight your own battles and for that I am sorry."
Reaching out and resting a hand on Naruto's own, Wendy smiled softly. "You don't have to apologize. I'm glad I have you around to always protect me, but I want to be able to protect you too."
Naruto matched Wendy's smile with a large grin. "I wouldn't complain to that."
"So you would be okay with me joining the other guild task force?"
"Well I'm not gonna lie and say I wouldn't worry about you, but I'm also not going to try and stop you." Naruto then paused and placed his storage seal away, while he slowly pointed to the necklace around Wendy's neck. "Just promise me that if things get too intense you'll let me help."
Clutching her necklace and nodding her head, Wendy gave Naruto a rather happy eye smile. "I promise!"
"Well in that case go make me and the guild proud."
(Chapter end)
Well here is something I've been sitting on for a very long time and finally thought why not just post this and see where it goes from here? So tell me what you think!
Pairings: This will be strictly a Naruto and Wendy story, but Itachi will be the pseudo third main character. So should he get some romance as well? And if so with whom?
Other stories: I have updates for all my stories getting close to being done, but I took time to polish earlier chapters of some stories that I will update along with their next update. Now some of my stories are quite long, so that has been a process… plus free time is hard to come by these days as ironic as that might be. So forgive me for not updating and neglecting a few of my stories.
Anyways that's all I have for now! If you have any questions I haven't answered, message me and I'll try to answer to the best of my ability. Until next time stay safe and thanks for reading!