Again that angel voice come forth and whispered ideas into my ear. We need this as a one-shot it said!

So this is what was created from that voice. Meehala, seriously, you have amazing ideas, don't ever leave me!

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Summary

Whispers float through the village about how this marriage may not have been what it seemed. Why can't anyone go beyond the gates? Why isn't anyone ever invited in? Why is he pregnant every time he is seen? Why is the other always away? Is he is a prisoner in this marriage and being used as the other's play thing?

Villagers begin to worry about the well being of their blond shinobi hero.

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The wedding was small and quiet, with only a handful of very close friends as witnesses. The ceremony wasn't lavish, and there wasn't even an after party filled with music, lights, laughter and drinking. Though the whole concept of the couple getting married was different to most traditional ones, the reasoning the people came up with on why it happened was enough for them to accept it.

Both came from a tragic past, when they were just young children that every adult and child in the entire village was aware of. One, a survivor who witnessed the most treacherous crime committed towards an entire clan that left him an orphan, alone and spiraling into darkness. The other, suffered from losing his only living family upon the day of his birth, due to a madman who sought revenge, leaving him an orphan, alone and being the subject of heinous abuse from others who thought to blame him for the madman's crime.

Both had lost a part of their history, leaving them the soul survivors of two nearly instinct clans. It only made sense for the two to wed, to build what was lost, thus the village accepted that it was simply a marriage of convenience and accepted that explanation. The people of the village never questioned as they would see the newly couple, walking together quietly, making their way through the village and tending to their chores. It did not surprise anyone to see the couple not holding hands, not smiling lovingly at each other or any other public displays of affection. It was a common thing to see in couples that were married in convenience, so nobody ever questioned it.

Sasuke Uchiha and Naruto Uzumaki were viewed as the two most powerful warriors of the village, having proved their worth in the past decade by protecting the village from villains, monsters, madmen and superficial beings.

The broad tall raven haired Uchiha was a gift from the gods. His frame was firm, his muscles were toned so hard that when Sasuke would wear his ANBU attire, women and some men would swoon when he walked by. His skin was smooth as marble, his eyes held a depth of mystery and his hair framed his sharp jawline perfectly. He never smiled with those lips, but would often be seen with a smirk when glancing at his wedded partner who often was walking with him though the village.

Sun kissed skin, gleaming blond hair, brilliant blue eyes and a smile that could blind one who looked straight on, Uzumaki was just as god like as his partner. He too was well toned, though his muscles may not be as firm and lined as the Uchiha, they were still an impressive sight when he donned his own ANBU attire and had women fanning themselves when he would walk by and smile. Naruto could always be seen smiling and chattering away to his stoic partner as they walked the village streets.

This was the norm of the married Uchiha-Uzumaki couple and the village thought nothing more of it in the months that had passed.

It was when Naruto had collapsed in the streets one day, thankfully Sasuke had caught him before he hit the ground, that the villagers gasped and ran towards the couple, fearing what could have happened that had caused the strong vibrant blond to collapse. But they all stood back as Sasuke threw them all a dangerous glare that promised undeniable pain should anyone interfere. He then lifted the unconscious Naruto into his arms, bridal style and whisked away with such speed, that only a puff of smoke remained where they both stood.

Tsunade lay dozing at her desk, her head lay heavy upon her hand, her elbow barely keeping it balanced. Her mouth hung slack open and every so often a snort would escape her lips, she would adjust her head and promptly fall back asleep. She almost fell back out of her chair when she was jerked away by someone banging open her door. "W-what the fu—!" she cried out as she was startled awake, her arms flailing to keep her from falling.

"Hokage-sama," Sasuke spoke with a firm tone as he stopped in front of Tsunade's desk. Naruto still lay unconscious in his arms.

"What the hell did you do?!" Tsunade screamed out as she jumped from her chair and pointed Sasuke towards the examining table in the far corner. Shoving any papers and boxes off the examining table, she watched as Sasuke gently laid Naruto with the utmost care onto the table, ensuring that his head was cradled between his hands before releasing it onto the table. Tsunade smirked inwardly watching the usual cold, stuck up, stoic Uchiha giving Naruto unconditional gentleness and attentiveness. "What happened?" Tsunade asked as she pulled out a light to look into Naruto's pupils. She pulled out a stethoscope to listen to his heart next, her eyes flickering up to the Uchiha, demanding he answer.

"He collapsed while we were walking in the village," Sasuke answered sharply, rubbing his thumb over one of Naruto's knuckles as he held his hand gently.

"Did he show any signs of illness, weakness, dizziness, look pale before it happened?" she asked as she now began to check Naruto's rib cage, his arms and legs. Sasuke shook his head no. She hummed as she pushed her sleeves up past her elbows and held her hands over Naruto's chest. The green glow of the mystical palm technique began to emanate from her hands and she concentrated hard causing her eyes to close. Her hands moved slowly from Naruto's chest to his lower abdomen while Sasuke watched her every move closely. The glow stopped and she huffed out loud when putting her hands on her hips. She moved away from the sleeping blond and opened up a filing cabinet. She pulled out a pad of paper and began to scribble on it. When she was done, she ripped the page off, walked back to the examining table and handed it to Sasuke.

He gave her a confused look as he took the paper. She smirked at him and then looked down at the still sleeping Naruto. She ran her fingers through the thick blond locks, giving a soft smile at him. "You will get him those medicinal herbs that he will take daily. He will also require vitamins every day. Read up on proper diet and don't let him over exert himself. That is why he collapsed today. With his body now working hard to develop another, he will need to be careful." She glanced up at the Uchiha who looked to her, to Naruto, the slip of paper and then back to her. He still had a look of question. "Congratulations, he's pregnant." Sasuke tumbled backwards at the words. She snorted out a laugh. "Go out and get those items for him while he rests, he will wake soon." She excused him off by fluttering her hand at him and pinching the bridge of her nose. "I'll be here with him till you return."

Sasuke stepped up to the bed, grabbing a tanned hand and kissing it gently across the knuckles. He then leaned over, placing his lips near the sleeping blonde's ear and whispered something that Tsunade couldn't hear. He then stood, gave Tsunade a firm bow and disappeared in a puff of smoke. Tsunade shook her head with a small smile. It was certainly going to be an interesting next few months.

The village had not seen the blond ANBU man for several weeks after those who witnessed the collapse. Word spread quickly about the collapse and many villagers wondered what became of the blond. But who they did see often was Sasuke, moving about the village on his own, picking up an abundance of fruits, vegetables and fish on a regular basis. Rumors finally had moved about, that Sasuke had picked up medicinal herbs used for pregnancy, prenatal vitamins and pregnancy books. That information as well as the sudden shopping trips, the villagers were able to put two and two together.

The couple were finally seen together in the village and the blond was sporting a visible pregnancy bump. Sasuke hovered near Naruto and the blond was snapping at him.

"I'm fine, give me some space!" Naruto was heard. The raven just stepped to the side slightly as they continued to walk. Naruto stopped near an outdoor seller who had fruit wares. "Ah, dragon fruit, I need four of these sir!"

"You don't need four," Sasuke grumbled out and Naruto whipped his head around and glared at the raven.

"The hell I don't! You have no idea how amazing these are!" Naruto glared back, before turning back to the seller, thanking him and taking the bag.

"You can't eat that many, they spoil quickly." Sasuke grumbled again as he handed the seller some money.

"Oh yeah? Watch me!" Naruto huffed out as he made his way to the next food cart, Sasuke shaking his head and following the blond. "Stupid grumbling bastard, thinks he can…" Naruto was heard mumbling under his breath.

The villagers waved and congratulated the couple when they walked past, Naruto was all smiles, his whisker marked cheeks flushed with a glow as he thanked the people. Sasuke just nodded, his eyes rarely leaving the blond and following closely.

The news came immediately that the Uchiha-Uzumaki couple had given birth to a boy. The child was named Ryuu Uchiha-Uzumaki and rumors had said that the delivery was long, but both mother and child were doing well. Chatter was non-stop and the villagers hounded people with questions about the baby boy. What did he look like? What was the delivery like? How would the Uchiha be now that he is a father? Did Ryuu have any special features? The questions went on for several days. The gates were always closed at the Uchiha compound, and as far as the village knew, nobody worked on the other side. Sasuke was then seen within the village, gathering food from the market and people congratulated him, offered gifts for their first born, and tried to ask questions at his every step. The Uchiha gave several glares when people came too close, but then he would be thankful when he accepted the gifts. Sasuke called on Konohamaru, a student of Naruto's whom the village knew that Naruto had a close bond with. Sasuke gave direction to Konohamaru to take the abundance of gifts, groceries, to make several trips if necessary, to the Uchiha gates. Konohamaru was quick to agree and was seen running back and forth to Sasuke, relieving Sasuke when his arms became too full.

"Naruto and Ryuu are doing well. Naruto is tired, but healing well. Ryuu is healthy, eating well and growing quickly. Thank you for your concern and gifts." Sasuke's continuous answer would be the same to all that asked as he traveled throughout the village.

About two months had passed and the villagers were pleased to see the Uchiha-Uzumaki couple out in the streets again, this time carrying a small bundle wrapped in Naruto's arms. Naruto was walking slowly, but appeared to have a healthy glow in his cheeks again as he made his way around the various food vendors. Sasuke was a few steps behind, watching the two and he would ever so often nod towards the vendors. Naruto would pick out various foods from the carts, Sasuke would pay and carry the bags. People would not get too close to Naruto and the baby, as Sasuke would give a snarl and a glare to those who did. Instead, people congratulated the couple again, offering gifts and Naruto smiled brightly and gave thanks.

The couple came out together less and Sasuke was seen more often than Naruto and the baby. Sasuke gave word that Naruto and baby were fine, just busy and left it at that. Sasuke was still seen in his ANBU attire walking with a team of other ANBU, thus the village knew that Sasuke was back at work. It wasn't uncommon for the father of a family to be back at work before the mother, therefore it was accepted that Naruto was still at home with their child, doing what a mother would do and Sasuke was back to work.

When Naruto did come to the village, he was often alone with the baby strapped to his front by a sling and would make regular food trips. His smile was still bright, he greeted all with a friendly greeting and would at times make chit chat with some friends. But he never stayed out long, picked up his purchases, sometimes Konohamaru would assist with carrying them, but only to the Uchiha gate. When Konohamaru was asked on several occasions on what was going on behind those gates, the boy would respond the same. "Don't know. I help Naruto-san to the gates, they open, and he takes the bags and says goodbye. I have never seen beyond the gates." Konohamaru would never question what is behind the gate and never ask to come in unless invited. He was noble that way to his mentor.

Sasuke pushed open the Hokage door with such force that it slammed and blew papers everywhere. The room was empty, except for stacks of files, papers and boxes, but that wasn't a surprise since it was around three in the morning.

"Asshole," Naruto snarled and panted out. "Y-you don't have to use such – unghhh…" Naruto flopped forward. His face was white, his teeth grit through the pain and Sasuke held him up before he could fall to his knees.

"Hn, idiot," Sasuke grunted out as he led Naruto to the examining table in the far corner. Helping the trembling Naruto onto the examining table he laid the blond down carefully before going out to fetch the Hokage. Naruto panted out excessively, holding an arm up over his eyes and the other arm held his stomach.

"What the hell brat!" Tsunade snapped at him as she came stomping into the Hokage office. "What did you eat this time?!" She grabbed her stethoscope and listened to Naruto's chest.

"I told him not to mix the sushi with ramen. Just the whole concept of it is wrong," Sasuke grunted out as he watched Tsunade check Naruto's eyes, his throat and ears. Naruto groaned out in pain continuously, his legs twisting and turning about as he held his stomach.

"Ughhh…sh-shut up bastard!" Naruto moaned out.

"Enough you two! Let me check to make sure you didn't do any serious damage brat!" Tsunade snapped at the men. She pushed her sleeves up and began her mystical palm technique, closing her eyes as the green glow began. As usual, she began at Naruto's chest then moved slowly down to his abdomen. Naruto managed to keep himself steady but ground his teeth continuously through the discomfort. Sasuke leaned against the examining table on his hands and moved his eyes back and forth to Tsunade and Naruto continuously.

When Tsunade was done, she flickered her golden eyes between both boys and then smirked wide. "Well, no damage is done from your interesting craving Naruto," she began as she mocked the last two words out. She watched both of their expressions. Sasuke raised a brow and Naruto just tried to catch his breath. "I have though, settled your stomach Naruto, and I recommend that you don't try that type of mixture again. I don't think junior liked it." She walked away, a smile on her lips they couldn't see and she grabbed her note pad off her desk, wrote on it and turned back to the two men. She inwardly chuckled as she saw the shocked faces on both of them this time. Well Sasuke, it was more of a wide eyed look, keeping his face looking as impassive as always, but Naruto's mouth was full blown open in an O, his baby blues were round as saucers and he had managed to hop to the floor and was now balancing himself against the examining table. At least his colour was coming back.

"J-junior?" Naruto stuttered out in a whisper. His hands automatically moved down to his abdomen.

Tsunade handed Sasuke the note, same as she did practically a year ago. "Here you go. Prescribed herbal medicines, prenatal vitamins and I supposed you don't need any more pregnancy books?" Tsunade couldn't hold back the smile as Sasuke slowly took the paper from her fingers, giving it a glance then looking over at Naruto. "I'll see you in a month Naruto. Now go get some rest and think about what you are eating before shoving it down your throat for once?" She crossed her arms and stared at them both.

Naruto turned his head to Sasuke. "You—you asshole! Ryuu is only like 6 months old and you couldn't wait just a little longer!" Naruto slapped Sasuke on the arm and turned to walk out of the room. "Stupid horny bastard, thinks he can…." Naruto was mumbling under his breath as he headed out the door. Tsunade snorted out and looked towards the Uchiha. Sasuke gave a small smile before bowing at Tsunade and headed out after Naruto.

The news of Naruto being pregnant again went through the village like wildfire. The people were pleased that things seemed to be going well for the Uchiha-Uzumaki couple and spoke happy thoughts for two that were doing well in bringing children into their clan. Sasuke was seen again going through the village, picking up groceries, thanking the villagers for their well wishes and then disappearing behind the Uchiha compound. Sasuke still completed missions, seen often returning to the village with a group of ANBU, and the people looked upon as the norm.

Naruto would come into the market place alone at most times, picking up various fruits and vegetables, pushing his now toddler in a carriage. The summer months were pleasant, Naruto would come to the market at least once a week and often alone. Konohamaru could be seen with him at times when he wasn't out with his team, chatting it up with Naruto and helping him with his purchases. When the villagers did see Naruto and Sasuke together, Naruto was often ahead of the stoic Uchiha, conversing with the people and a small group of friends. Most times Ryuu was in his stroller or Sasuke would carry him. Naruto would say few words to the Uchiha, when he was complaining that he should put Ryuu's hat on right, wasn't holding him properly or when Sasuke would say a comment about a purchase. Sasuke would hold an impassive face during the walk and continue to carry bags.

The visits were fewer as the months rolled by into the fall, and when Naruto did come to the market, he moved slowly, waddling with his pregnant stomach leading the way and it was more often than not Konohamaru at Naruto's side. But the answers were still the same when Konohamaru was asked by curious onlookers. He continues to assist Naruto only to the gates of the Uchiha compound, puts the bags down and is informed he is no longer needed. Thus he walks away, usually with Naruto waving him off.

It was a chilly December day, near Christmas when the news of Akira Uchiha-Uzumaki was born. Another healthy young boy to the Uchiha-Uzumaki clan and the people nodded their heads in agreement on how well the couple were doing. With the chill of the season, people didn't see Naruto or any of the children, but that was to be expected. Sasuke was still the common site, still continuing to gather supplies and doing any ANBU business. The village had seen it as a ANBU family norm.

It wasn't until the later days of spring that Naruto had come to the market. He now had a double stroller, where Ryuu babbled constantly from the front seat and baby Akira was but 4 months old, still in an infant seat behind Ryuu. The people rushed but were cautious on approaching Naruto, as a tall proud Uchiha followed close behind. He would still glare if someone got too close, therefore the people would call over to the couple, waving their congratulations, ooh'ing and awing over the babbling Ryuu. The infant seat had a canopy to protect the small Akira from the sun and wind, but sometimes Naruto would fuss over Akira and lift the canopy up briefly to tend to him. From what was seen Akira bore the same dark hair as his father, like Ryuu. The same Uchiha genes could be seen in Ryuu more and more and people could only guess that Akira would look the same.

Naruto continued to select various fruits, vegetables and fish from the market vendors, smiling and chatting at them all the while. Sasuke remained diligently behind his little family, lips pinched straight and holding bags when they were handed to him. Sasuke called Konohamaru from somewhere and gave him all the purchases and tilted his head firmly towards the compound with a frown. Konohamaru saluted the ANBU and ran quickly.

"You could say please or thank you to him you know," Naruto hissed at Sasuke. Sasuke just glanced at the blue eyed blond, saying nothing, and Naruto just huffed out and the small family made their way towards the Hokage tower.

About an hour later the village saw a very quiet Naruto pushing the stroller firmly and quickly, but carefully, and Sasuke walking straight and solid like a high ranked soldier several feet behind Naruto. The impassive site was nothing uncommon for the Uchiha, but a quiet, firm faced Naruto was not. Naruto did not stop at any vendors, respond with his usual flare of hellos and good days, he just breezed right through the market straight towards the Uchiha compound, with Sasuke following several feet behind him. The people began to whisper at the site, but didn't think too much of it and continued on with their lives.

It was into the summer that the village learned of yet another Uchiha-Uzumaki pregnancy. The blond wasn't seen very often in the market, and when he was, he walked slow and carefully, Konohamaru at his side almost constantly. The villagers said their congratulations again to Naruto and he smiled warmly, thanking them all. The Uchiha was seen less and less, and word had it that Sasuke was taking on many more missions and attending more out of country sites. The people were happy for the Uchiha-Uzumaki couple, but they whispered about how the ANBU soldier should be careful and home more for his children and partner. Yes it was common for ANBU families to have their partner be gone for long periods of times, be faced with dangerous missions but many families were given leave for up to several months just so they could bond with their family.

It was later in the fall, before the winter winds came in, that Naruto was seen in the marketplace with Konohamaru pushing the stroller with now 2 year old Ryuu and 10 month old Akira. But Naruto looked like he was ready to give birth! The villagers naturally asked several questions while Naruto slowly waddled his way down the streets, stopping often to rest on any bench available.

"I'm not due for another couple months, January to be exact," Naruto laughed out while talking to some older ladies and sitting on one of the many benches down the road. "Sasuke and I are blessed with twins this time, and they certainly are taking up a lot of space fast!" Naruto rubbed his swollen stomach gently. The elderly ladies coo'd when they realized what Naruto said and offered gifts in congratulations. The people then talked to Ryuu who responded with a solid stare, just like his father. Akira was at least at the age where he would smile and babble at people who gave him attention. Naruto smiled tiredly, said his goodbyes and slowly made his way to the Uchiha compound, Konohamaru beside him pushing the stroller and one of his clones carrying the packages.

It was a frigid early January morning when Sasuke woke to Naruto shaking him hard. "Sasuke, it's time, I'm sure."

Sasuke jumped up quickly, looking over at Naruto who was clenching his teeth and groaning out softly while rubbing at the lower area of his now extremely swollen pregnant belly. Sasuke quickly threw his clothing on then went to Naruto's side, his own hand rubbing the skin in hopes to ease the pain. He planted a kiss on Naruto's forehead, informed him he would be back immediately and headed out the door to inform the Hokage.

The news was almost immediate in the village that Naruto had given birth to healthy twin boys, Haru and Kyo Uchiha-Uzumaki. Because it was not often twins were born, and how much harder it is on the mother carrying them, and how recovery is usually longer than a single birth, the village celebrated amongst themselves, sending baskets and cards of well wishes to the family. The Uchiha-Uzumaki clan were now blessed with 4 boys to carry on their family name, and a special blessing it was to have twins. Naruto and Sasuke were all but 20 and 21 years of age, and to be blessed with that many children already at such a young age, meant that both parents would certainly be around for many years to see their children's children.

Konohamaru was seen often with his two friends, Udon and Moegi, attending the various markets to purchase food and supplies for the Uchiha-Uzumaki clan. In the beginning, it was expected, as a family with twin infants, a one and a two year old, was most likely very tiring, therefore the villagers didn't think too much of it of Konohamaru and his friends running about picking up supplies. When questioned, Konohamaru would answer that Naruto was very tired, Sasuke was on a mission, and it was his mission to ensure Naruto's family had their supplies. Konohamaru was very proud that he was selected to care for the family, but he informed curious onlookers that he was still only to drop the supplies outside the Uchiha gates and go on his way. Udon and Moegi would just shrug and continue on their way as well.

It wasn't until summer when the villagers were blessed with seeing the bright smile on Naruto's face. The man looked fit, his skin was beautifully tanned and he had a good healthy glow about him. He talked with everyone in the marketplace as he pushed a stroller with Ryuu and Akira and Konohamaru pushed another double stroller with the now 7 month old twins. Naruto took his time as he selected fish and vegetables, talking to the vendors animatedly and stopping to sit and chat with the townsfolk. The people fussed over the children, Ryuu giving glares to the people that got too close, Akira played shy and the twins dozed on and off. The twins each had blond hair and tanned skin, like Naruto, but slightly lighter. The twins each had a set of whisker marks and cute button noses. When they opened their eyes to see the people, people were faced with dark gray eyes. Naruto would laugh and say how the Uchiha gene got their eyes but at least he had some blond boys.

When the children began to fuss after several hours, Naruto said his goodbyes to the villagers and headed back home. It had been an eventful day and the village did not even question where the stoic Uchiha had been.

It was the New Year's celebration in the village and it was the first time the villagers had seen just Naruto and Sasuke without their children. The village was holding several festivities, with games and foods, followed by fireworks to bring in the New Year. The winter had been cold but not frigid so far, and the people were dressed for the weather as they milled about the festivities. Naruto was seen with his warm parka with the fur lining, smiling and laughing as he made his way between the booths. Sasuke was seen following behind him, watching him and often nodding his head. Naruto would talk to the merchants, his friends, smiling and laughing all the while Sasuke following behind. Once in a while Naruto would turn to Sasuke and say something, but the usual sober look came from the Uchiha and Naruto would just huff and continue on. The couple were last seen sitting by the lake, some part away from each other and looking up to the fireworks that burst colourfully throughout the sky.

It was when Naruto was seen in the market in the late spring with yet another obvious swollen stomach that the village started to talk about the actual marriage the Uchiha and Uzumaki had. Sasuke was rarely seen now, only with a group of ANBU when they returned from missions and the odd time picking up orders of food. Naruto now had Ryuu walking along side him, his arm stretched tall to hold his mother's hand, and at times Akira would be on his hip. Konohamaru was a normal sight, pushing a double stroller with the now almost one year old twins. Apparently Konohamaru now had the help of his two friends Udon and Moegi, to carry bags and at times assist with Ryuu and Akira.

Seeing the smiling blond man pregnant yet again, who was still but 21 years of age, the whispers turned back around to the rumors that started when the two men first married. Was it apparent that this was indeed a marriage of convenience? To build a clan, to carry on the family line, and possibly to build power? And these whispers did indeed sadden many. Over the years the villagers turned to happier thoughts of the two; being the hero's they were, being deeply in love, a perfect match for each other and ready to live happily ever after. But the whispers continued to mount into more concerns and questions that nobody could answer. Nobody knew what was going on behind the closed doors of the Uchiha gates, the pair were often now seen alone with their spouse nowhere to be seen, the cold stoic looks the Uchiha gave and never an ounce of care towards his mate and of course the Uchiha always appeared to be more involved in his work, then being at home. The talks had people shaking their heads in sadness as it appeared Naruto may look happy, but perhaps he wasn't. Still, the people greeted Naruto with smiles and kindness when he came to the village with his four children, his helpers and awed at him rubbing his swollen belly.

When baby Itachi Uchiha-Uzumaki was born in the fall, beneath the coloured leaves of the trees, close to his mother's birthday, the village praised the couple for naming the child after an incredible man. Yes Itachi Uchiha may have had some black marks from the past, but after the war, it was all brought out into the open on why things happened the way they did. And the people accepted it. It was rumoured that baby boy Itachi was a spitting image of his father Sasuke, though the people would not see the infant, nor his older brothers until late next spring.

Naruto was seen with his children by the lake, sitting in the after late spring sun, cooing a baby in his arms. Konohamaru, together with Iruka Umino, Naruto's past sensei, were playing with the younger children while Naruto bounced the now 8 month old Itachi. The giggles from the other children was music to his ears and Naruto took deep breaths of the fresh air. Naruto was brought from his musings when Iruka sat beside him and looked over at the now sleeping Itachi. Naruto looked over to see that Udon and Moegi had joined up with Konohamaru and assisted in entertaining the children.

"How you feeling Naruto-kun?" Iruka asked as he tucked the baby's blanket a little more around the sleeping babe.

"Oh, I'm alright, just a little tired Iruka-san. Thank you so much for helping out with the kids here, they can be a handful at times!" Naruto smiled towards the older man.

"Thank you for calling me here, it has been a pleasure to meet them." Iruka smiles and leaned back on his arms, looking across the lake. "How is Sasuke-kun?" Naruto looked out over the lake and took a breath. Iruka didn't know if that was a sad or tired sigh coming from his former student.

"Oh, you know Sasuke. Honourable, fussy, stuck up, proud, antisocial, pisses me off sometimes, you know the usual." Naruto turned his head slightly to look at his former sensei and gave him a grin.

Iruka looked back to him, raising a brow in question and Naruto just looked back over the lake laughing. Iruka wondered what Naruto meant by all that.

The news of Naruto being pregnant again that summer did not hold as much surprise to the villagers as it once did. The people had now begun to continuously whisper and believe the stories that the family, especially the deemed unemotional Uchiha, was only seeking revival of his clan and possibly power. Konohamaru was the only one seen on a regular basis rushing about getting supplies for the Uchiha-Uzumaki family instead of Sasuke. Sasuke was seen only with his ANBU team and Naruto was seen once every few months. And it appeared that he was practically always pregnant when he was seen. The villagers shook their heads in sadness as the stories continued but no person would ever stand up to prove that the rumors may be true.

Aoi Uchiha-Uzumaki, yet another boy, was born to the clan in February. The villagers talked about their concerns on how Naruto must be faring with so many children. There were no known villagers that worked for the Uchiha-Uzumaki family, or outsiders, so how could the family possibly be caring for the children without outside help? With Sasuke continuously gone on missions with the ANBU, Konohamaru and his friends still attended the market for supplies, leaving them outside the Uchiha gate, and the village rumours began to escalate.

When Naruto fell ill in July and had to be hospitalized, the village began to worry. It was Tsunade who was seen running through the village market with a worried expression and her medical pack, heading straight for the Uchiha compound. When a team of medical staff from the hospital rushed to take Naruto to the hospital, the people's whispers grew. It was said that Naruto looked pale as a ghost, appeared weak like a baby and suffered from a high fever that did not settle for days.

The people's stories grew to a point that it was said Naruto had almost died! And Sasuke Uchiha was not in the village the whole time, nor did he return to his deathly ill partner or to his children. The whispers said that Sasuke had been away for several weeks on a mission with his team, leaving Naruto to care for five children and an infant alone! How dare the Uchiha do such a thing! And to not return when his family needed him! For shame! The villagers whispered more and more.

And somehow, most likely through the gossip at the hospital, the people found out that Naruto was pregnant-again, with twins-again and after the ordeal at the hospital of Naruto fighting for his life, the people began to believe that the Uchiha was really an uncaring individual that only believed in rebuilding a powerful clan to eventually possibly take over the village.

When Naruto and Sasuke attended the annual New Year's festival, they had brought their two eldest children, Ryuu and Akira only, and Naruto's stomach was large and round. The villagers watched the two closely as they held the hands of their two children. Naruto pointed to the sites, talking and smiling at the children. Ryuu had wide eyes but remained quiet and clutched his father's hand tightly. Ryuu stayed close to his father and Sasuke often glanced down at 5 year old Ryuu, but nobody saw anything more. Naruto, who clutched Akira's hand, continued to respond to 4 year old Akira who would ask questions on every turn and colour and continuously pull at his mother's hand. Naruto would smile and laugh, say hello to the people, sit and chat with people as he rubbed his covered swollen stomach while Sasuke stood to the side, watching and remaining quiet. The villagers were now whispering what they had thought before must be true, and now the people felt sad for Naruto.

The twins were born healthy around the first day of spring in March. Rumors began to fly again once it was known that the Uchiha-Uzumaki clan had birthed two more boys. Tenshi and Sora Uchiha-Uzumaki were healthy and that was all that was heard. The people shook their heads as their thoughts turned to Naruto, caring for 8 children, with no nanny or caregiver to assist and a husband that was gone 80 percent of the time from the village. With so many boys, villagers wondered if the Uchiha had a secret jujitsu that would only have him produce boys! With that many boys, the Uchiha-Uzumaki clan could rise to great power! But, there were still pros and cons discussed in the village about that. What mattered now was Naruto's health and wellness, being alone with that many children behind closed gates. What kind of person was Sasuke Uchiha then?

Over the years, the children kept coming, with Naruto of course, carrying them all. The villagers were now completely convinced that Naruto was a prisoner of the Uchiha and forced to pop out children for the Uchiha's sake. But when Naruto would come to market, either with many children or a few, he was always with a smile, a glow upon his cheeks and almost never did he not have a swollen stomach. The people would give the regular congratulations, offer gifts when Naruto would show up pregnant and the people would dance around the subject of the all too often missing father.

Naruto would smile and chat with the villagers, his happy demure was always a contagious thing. At times his friends would meet up with him, asking him to sit, share a cup of tea and visit. Naruto would never stay long to visit, stating he had things to do and needed to get back. He gave no indication that he was struggling or was in any type of danger. He gave the regular comments about Sasuke being stuck up, hard assed, hard working, good provider of a husband and father. He would leave the people with a happy and content feeling, thinking that Naruto was just in his most happiest place. But after time, the villagers would once again talk amongst themselves about what really may be happening behind the Uchiha gates.

After sometime the villagers had lost count of how many children were born to the Uchiha-Uzumaki clan, and the rumors continued to hover over the village on how Naruto was a victim to the obvious Uchiha convenience marriage. First, Naruto was rarely seen in the market place anymore. Only Komohamaru and his two friends were seen on a regular time schedule, picking up supplies for the family. When people would ask about Naruto and Sasuke, Komohamaru would shrug his shoulders and continue telling the same tale he had from the beginning. Naruto never seemed to visit with any of his said friends, who were busy raising their own families as well mind you, but those friends were seen in the market on a regular basis, often as a family. Naruto and Sasuke were rarely partaking in any village celebrations as well and the people began to worry.

The village selected a village spokesperson to approach the Hokage, voicing the concern the people had about Naruto being trapped within the Uchiha compound, now secretly being called the Uchiha Baby-Mill. Tsunade listened to the concerns then promptly lost her temper, screaming that such nonsense was unbelievable and that she certainly wouldn't allow such blastomy to exist in her village. She then called the village to the square for an important Hokage statement.

"People of the Hidden Leaf. It has come to my attention that the village is concerned about certain clan protocols, traditions and practices. Let me make this clear to everyone. Should any clan be found practicing any tradition that is deemed to be inhuman towards their clan members, or any other person, then justice will be swift." Her golden eyes looked over the crowds of people, her face in a firm frown and her hands settled on her hips. "I can assure the people of the Hidden Leaf, that there are no such injustices being practiced in the Hidden Leaf. I, as the fifth Hokage, will guarantee my life, that this is true. Thank you for the concerns, it makes me proud to have you, the Hidden Leaf, to show such value towards your fellow village members." She gave a nod and headed back into the Hokage tower. The people were stumped, and could only trust their Hokage's words and go about their daily lives.

==x00x00x00x00x00x==

It had been just over ten years now since Naruto and Sasuke became parents. Kakashi was finally being sworn in as the sixth Hokage. Naruto and Sasuke attended the inauguration of the sixth Hokage held in July, surrounded by several children. The youngest in Naruto's arms, the next two smallest in a double stroller. The rest held hands with each other as they came to a small circle in the square. It was a divine mixture of dark and blond haired children of all ages and all akin with the looks of each of their parents. Some of them looked more like one parent than the other, others a beautiful mixture of both. Naruto held the smallest member on his hip. Eighth month old Daisuke Uchiha-Uzumaki held onto his mother's hair with one hand in a tight grip, his other fist a slobbery mess in his mouth. Surprisingly, the children all stayed close to their parents, their eyes wide and taking in the event. The elder son, now 14 years of age, helped to keep his younger siblings in line by giving stern looks, just like his father. Akira, now 12 years of age, was a bit softer in keeping his younger siblings in order. After the ceremony, Naruto replied quickly to the well wishes of the people, smiling and laughing and herding his children back towards the Uchiha-Uzumaki compound as he chatted. The regular stoic Uchiha kept to the side of the family, his eyes watching every move the children and villagers made closely while Naruto said his goodbyes. The villagers shook their heads with pity for Naruto when the family was gone.

==x00x00x00x00x00x==

"I have received a message from Naruto and Sasuke, Kakashi!" Iruka exclaimed with excitement. His body was trembling with excitement when Kakashi looked up at Iruka from the couch, where he was currently reading his well-worn out favorite book. Iruka's brown eyes were wide and shimmering with tears as she shook the still sealed envelope at Kakashi's face.

Kakashi smirked beneath his well known mask. "Well, are you going to open it?" he asked and lifted an eyebrow in question.

Iruka batted the letter over Kakashi's head and snorted at him. "Of course I am! I just thought you would show a little more excitement!" Iruka pouted at him briefly before moving his shaking fingers to open the letter. Kakashi just shrugged and dropped his eyes back down to the pages of his book.

Iruka's eyes skimmed the letter carefully before looking back at Kakashi. His eyes were watering more now and his bottom lip was quivering.

Kakashi now gave a look of concern towards his long time lover and lowered his book to his lap. "I don't like that look in your eye, is it bad news?"

"They want to congratulate you personally on being selected as the sixth Hokage by inviting us over to the compound! They are also requesting our presence as they have a personal request! Ohhhh Kakashi! The children! I'll get to see all the children, and—and it's been so long since I've seen Narutoooo!" Iruka fell forward into Kakashi's lap and started crying.

Kakashi patted Iruka's back gently. "Don't you already see Naruto's children at the academy?"

"B-but that's only a few! I-I never see them all or Naruto!" Iruka sobbed more into Kakashi's chest. Kakashi let out a happy sigh. Sometimes his lover was a little overly dramatic.

News of Iruka and Kakashi getting a special invite to attend the Uchiha-Uzumaki compound made waves through the village. There were mixed feelings all over as the people chatted about why they were going. What would they possibly see, would the Hokage be safe attending the unknown area, and of course, why just them selected? The village knew that Konohamaru and his two close friends did favors for the family, so why not invite them? Perhaps the newly elected Hokage demanded he be allowed within the compound?

Iruka was on a flurry of a shopping spree, trying to find the right gifts to get for Naruto and Sasuke, and especially for all the children. Kakashi followed behind him, nose in a book, and holding packages that were handed to him continuously. The morning came with Iruka beaming a huge smile, Kakashi balancing several packages and various villagers peeking around corners and trees, watching as the large compound gates opened and the two men disappeared inside.

The two men were seen coming out from the gates much later in the night, looking exhausted on their feet. Iruka and Kakashi walked slowly through the darkness, towards their home and in silence. Whispers rushed through the village the next day on theories that could have happened to the aging school teacher and the sixth Hokage during their stay in the Uchiha-Uzumaki compound.

==x00x00x00x00x00==

So I'm looking for opinions on this one.

Anyone interested to see what's happening behind closed gates? Or should this story be put out to pasture and just left to grow old and wither away? LOL

An author receiving a comment is just as exciting as a reader who receives notification of a new chapter posted!

If anyone is asking, yes I can still be found on tumblr, I did post the link if anyone is interested in purchasing Tell Me. You only pay for printing and shipping! :D