Demon's Den

Chapter 4

Naruto shot up in bed and looked around frantically. His heart hammered in fear and pain laced through his blood. He quickly rushed out, knowing he had to be somewhere else. He didn't care where or what he was wearing but just jumped out of his window and made a mad dash towards the fear.

He had to get there in time. In his rush he passed through several clan houses into a set of woods. The rocks, pebbles and twigs bit into his feet. He didn't falter. Then he saw it. A man was carrying a sack over his shoulders. He just knew that someone was in that sack.

His stance changed into a more feral one, as his hands touched the grounds. Orange wisps of youki energy surrounded him and he roared.

The shinobi turned with wide eyes at the tremendous roar. Naruto snarled and attacked the ninja, biting hard into his arm, causing the sack to fall. Naruto jumped back, and the ninja quickly sent daggers and senbon needles at him. Naruto dodged a few, but several pierced him with deadly precision. Naruto growled before charging to attack again, only to be caught by a powerful hand.

Sesshomaru held Naruto under his right arm, while Kagome was taking a look at the person in the sack. Sesshomaru's youki spread and quickly dominated Naruto's. He calmly took his sword from his sheath. "Tell me shinobi, why I should spare your life?" He tucked Naruto into his neck, hiding him from what was about to happen.

The man was frozen in fear as he felt the youki in the air. His muscles constricted painfully, as the clear intent of killing filled the atmosphere.

"No answer?" Sesshoumaru continued, "Pity." His stance barely changed as his sword was embedded into the ground and lightening thundered down, slicing the body into an indiscernible mess.

Naruto growled as he felt the threat leave. Sesshoumaru set the boy down, and watched as Naruto quickly made his way to Hinata, who was now held gently in Kagome's arms. His stance had changed and now he was walking upright.

Naruto sniffed around Hinata, before Kagome tweaked his nose. "She's okay sweetie."

Hinata's eyes opened as she whimpered. Naruto nodded, his eyes slightly brimming with tears before he knelt down beside the girl and tucked his face into the crook of Hinata's neck, slowly beginning to purr. Hinata's body relaxed and her eyes closed with the sense of safety.

He nuzzled her again, before placing a delicate lick there. His eyes began to close, and Kagome shifted her arms so that Naruto was slumped into her right arm, while Hinata was in her left. Kagome's aura wafted over the two, healing most of the wounds within moments.

Sesshoumaru made his way over. "He is already recognizing her as his."

Kagome nodded, and let Sesshoumaru take Naruto into his arms once again. "Yes, I told you. This is getting serious. Sesshoumaru, Naruto's youki was not pure. It was... it was lethal. He most likely would have killed the man." He gently plucked the needles from him, and licked the spots to heal and destroy any poison they may have contained.

"I know. This only means that we must find the spell that was cast on Shippo." Sesshoumaru replied helping Kagome to her feet. "We should be thankful that no one was here. The way they treat this boy would have caused an issue for sure." He watched the wounds close and the slight scent of poison vanish.

"Do... would you allow me to go inside his soul?"

Sesshoumaru's eyes turned sharply at his mate. "You do realise just how dangerous that can be, do you not?"

"Of course I do... but Sesshoumaru. That's my son and my Shippo is in there in a defiled and corrupted manner. I cannot with a light heart let this continue." Kagome pleaded silently with her eyes.

"I do not like it, dear one." Sesshoumaru finally said after a short silence.

"I know...but..." Kagome paused, "What are we going to do?" Kagome asked as she felt several people coming towards them.

"I will handle it." Sesshoumaru placed a quick kiss on Kagome's crown before shifting Naruto into his neck and licking him in the juncture between his shoulder and neck to soothe the boy from any turmoil. "All will be fine and we will discuss this further."

Seventeen shinobi came in, their weapons ready for a fight. Their stance stilled when they noticed the Taisho family and the Hyuuga Heiress.

Hiashi stepped forward, making his way towards Kagome, "Lord and Lady Taisho, I humbly thank you for saving my child." He took Hinata into his arms.

"Think nothing of it Lord Hyuuga. We are part of the clans of Konoha, it is our duty to protect anyone that needs it." Sesshoumaru answered. Kagome moved into his side, hiding most of her body from the males. In their haste to track Naruto, Kagome had a chance to only throw on a haiori with a pair of shorts while Sesshoumaru was dressed in nothing but a pair of silk pants.

"Still I am in your debt." Hiashi said. "But I must ask how was it that you were able to track and reach them so quickly?"

Kagome smiled, "Well now, everyone has their secrets Lord Hiashi. Why should we be any different?"

"Kagome has healed your daughter, and all is well." Sesshoumaru said, "Now, I believe both my wife and I are dressed indecently and my son needs his rest. We must take our leave. The report will be sent to the Hokage." Without giving anyone else a chance to say anything, Sesshoumaru's free arm wrapped around Kagome's waist as a gold orb appeared, and disappeared and with it the Taisho family.

The shinobi were stunned into silence, before a few ANBU made their way to the body that was minced in precision. Sure they didn't know what had happened but one thing was for sure that the Taisho clan was definitely more than they seemed.

Three Years After

It had been three years since Naruto had been adopted into the Taisho family. In those three years he had impressed his family with his sense of determination and his kind heart. They loved his openness with them, and the fact that he said what was in his heart. Though at times, he really did need to develop some sort of filter. He had his mother and sister wrapped completely around his fingers but surprisingly he was the one trying with everything to make sure they were happy too.

His father had noticed this and loved that his son was taking priority to protect the females and the family before anything else. Sesshomaru hadn't been lenient on Naruto once since his proper training had started. He had trained in basic martial arts and had only recently moved on to weaponary of different sorts. However, he had also told Naruto to never show any signs of actually being a warrior. That it would later protect him if people underestimated him, they would be in for a sorry beating of their life.

Also, at the age of six, Naruto had been taught two languages and excelled in his academic work. Kagome and Rin both agreed that little Naruto was far more intelligent than he let people believe. The only issue his father had was that somehow Naruto had gained the Kagome's ability to create and find trouble. It was not unusual for the two to be in some sort of mess.

So much so, that the major clans had begun to ward their homes whenever the two were invited. Sesshomaru really had no idea how to deal with it. But since he had lived with Kagome for far too long, he just sighed and dealt with it in an amused manner.

Unfortunately, Naruto hadn't had the opportunity to meet his older brothers or uncle due to some pressing issues he wasn't privy to. But he never had a chance to feel unloved. Naruto had learned early on that his family valued education and cared more about him with the little things they did for him. They made sure he was happy but they also practiced a fair amount of discipline.

The only issue little Naruto had was that he hadn't had a chance to see his friend that sang under the trees three years ago. He had asked his parents and they had just shrugged and said maybe she didn't like going outside. What he didn't remember was helping her from her abductor. Kagome and Sesshomaru though weren't surprised. It wasn't uncommon for that to happen.

Naruto was playing with Rin outside in their backyard. Though... when you really thought about it, it's wasn't so much as playing as it was a playful spare.

"Oh come on Naru-chan, you can do better than that." Rin taunted as she ran around him.

Naruto just grinned, "Nee-chan I'm letting you win." He stood still waiting for the perfect moment to tackle his older sister.

It had become a game for them after a game of tag had suddenly become an intense battle of the wills. Rin would annoy Naruto, while teaching him a proper way to keep his cool and keep him centered to the actual task of catching her.

"Now, now little brother, you shouldn't be so conceited." Rin laughed, "After all, I am always the victor. Unless—of course I change the rules to make it easier for you."

"Nee-chan!" Naruto whined, "You're being mean!"

"Psht. This is nothing."

Naruto dived at her, but Rin twirled away. "Nee-chan! I can't believe that you expect to gloat over a six year old boy!"

She giggled, "Have you been spending time in father's study again?" She sighed in mocking sadness, "It is hardly fun for a six year old to use words like gloat."

"You're not fair." Naruto whined, looking around discreetly for some sort of opening to tag Rin. He shifted from his left to right leg.

"Uh-uhn. Now see there, you just told me that you've found something." Rin chastised him, "You need to be more discreet, and appear spontaneous."

"I do know that." Naruto's eyes flicked towards the cherry blossom tree, his mind drifted back to the night he met the small girl that affected him more than he realised. Quickly he darted to the right, and pulled out a long black ribbon and tied it in a weaving pattern over his right hand and raised it.

Rin's hand was faster as she grabbed his right hand and twisted it gently behind him, pushing him slightly towards the ground. Naruto quickly twisted towards the left, pushing his right shoulder into Rin and mumbled a word causing the black ribbon to burst into a bright blue flame.

Rin's eyes widened as she jumped back and grabbed for his hand again. Naruto used the quick opportunity to slide onto his knees and turned, flipping through the air and jumped onto the branch of a tree.

His eyes lit mischievously, "Ne, getting old Nee-chan?"

She laughed heartily, "You my dear little brother are amusing!"

Naruto answered by throwing down a kick towards her, she retaliated by grabbing the leg in the air and flipping him over. A long scabbard appeared in Rin's hand as she pushed down Naruto with it. "I win."

Naruto let out a huff of air, "That's not fair."

Rin laughed, "Yes it is. Now come on, you have mathematics now."

"You know it's not right. I'm not a therapist, math can solve its own problems!" Naruto whined as he stood up, and allowed Rin to dust off his clothes.

Rin blinked before letting out a peal of laughter, "Oh that is precious! I have to tell Mother!"

Naruto grinned as he held his older sister's hand and made their way to the study rooms. The quickly made their way into the study rooms and Rin found herself teaching math to him.

The Hokage rubbed small circles into his forehead. This mission he was planning on assigning to Hatake was taking a lot more out of him than he thought. He had spoken earlier to the Taisho family, to see if someone could aid them since it was related to their clan ability in a way. But at the same time, they hadn't really wanted to enter the mission without the appropriate information.

It was clear that Lord Taisho was not going to allow his wife to accompany a team alone. He didn't trust the ninja with his wife, or maybe it was the other way around? After all, he had started a fairly strong relationship with the Lord and Lady Taisho. The thing that had become more evident with time was that Lady Taisho was clearly someone one should fear, dearly. Yes, the Lord himself was quite a frightening person to take in battle, but something about the Lady would just cut into your soul and just plain devour it.

Not to say that the Lady wasn't also one of the very, very few people that acted to her heart's content. It was clear that she didn't hide anything nor did she have hidden agendas. Except for maybe the prospect of her children's marriages, from what he gathered, her intention was for little Naruto and the young Hyuuga heiress. God help those two. Anyway, Sarutobi had gone to the Taisho family about the issue of this mission. Though he wasn't able to give specific details, with the exception of what the mission was about. A simple rescue mission... in the heart of the Bone-Eater's forest. The forest was rumoured to house demons and other mythical beings.

Lady and Lord Taisho had shared an amused look before they spoke.

"Well, if you are going there, Rin can accompany you." Lady Taisho said as she sipped her tea. "The rumors are quite amusing I assure you, however neither demon nor any other being residing there can cause harm to a squadron of shinobi."

"What my wife was saying is that, you only need Rin, and nobody will dare approach you." Lord Taisho explained.

Sarutobi's eyebrows furrowed, "I do not understand."

The two again shared a very amused look, "My brother—"

"Half-brother."

She rolled her eyes, "Yes, well it's his land. And everyone knows better than to harm his niece. Especially, since she is the heir of the Taisho clan." She paused thoughtfully, "Though, it is possible someone may try to take her."

"I doubt it." Her husband was quick to reassure, "Not a creature in that forest can take on my daughter and survive, including that mutt."

"Sesshoumaru." She warned, "Inuyasha is a very capable warrior, he can take on Rin—not that he would. I'm just saying that with her aura and power anyone would be stupid to try to hurt her." She turned to Sarutobi, "It should be no problem, Rin knows her way around the forest. We actually spent a few years of her life there to get her used to it and know it well."

At this point Sarutobi's eyes widened, "Lord and Lady Taisho, you can't possibly have trained little Rin there! That place is crawling with danger."

"It is prudent that out clan member know that area." Sesshoumaru began, "All my sons have been through it, my half-brother lives within it like an uncivilized barbarian—"

"Honey, that's not true and you know it!"

"Kagome also travelled through that forest extensively, as well as I. We have nothing to fear within it."

"Don't say that. Hokage-sama the forest... it has a magical presence to it due to the fact that it does reside several demons. But you must also note that the demons themselves will stay away from humans unless, a—they are very attracted to them, b—the scent of blood is strong and c—they have a strange aura." Lady Taisho explained.

"Yes, I have noted several persons in this village with the aura that may attract a demon. If you would like the names, I can give them to you."

"That may be something interesting, I thank you greatly Lord Taisho." Sarutobi said gratefully. "Now are you sure that you would allow your only daughter on this mission as intelligence? It can be dangerous."

"Inuyasha will be there if anything is needed." Kagome said, "He's a decent fighter and push come to shove, he is linked to her and will be there within seconds."

Sarutobi sighed. Now it was the hard part. Kakashi Hatake was the most promising ninja in his village. He strove to work hard and after the disastrous death of his entire team, he had turned cold. Sure he had his moments where you caught a glimpse of that childhood. But even that was minimal. His closed-eyed smile and acting of someone that was happy was hardly discernable. But Sarutobi practically raised the boy.

It saddened him that Kakashi was now just a shell of his former self. Hopefully he would find something to bring a spark of life back into his life. Anyway, now Kakashi was also very stubborn. For Sarutobi to give him the aid of Rin—a civilian, even if she was very well trained—was going to be a shock. He just hoped that Kakashi wouldn't take it as a personal attack.

"Hokage-sama, Team twelve is here." His secretary called.

"Ah yes, let them in." Sarutobi straightened and brought out his pipe. He began to pack it with a bit of tobacco and some mint leaves.

"Hokage-sama!" Three voices greeted in unison.

"At ease." Sarutobi said, as he flicked his pipe with his match to light it. He puffed a bit and then smiled as he took a nice long breath from it. "Now the mission is a S-class rescue in the Bone Eater's Forest. A guide will be joining you three. The girl that you are rescuing is a former civilian of Konoha that had been adopted by Oricihmaru. It is rumoured that she was one of his experiments. I want this to remain a secret that will remain between your team and I. I do not under any circumstances want this leaked, is that understood?"

The three nodded in understanding.

He took another drag from his pipe, "The person assisting this team has spent an extensive time in that forest as a young child. I have been told that they will be nothing if not helpful and will be carrying their own weight. I want everyone out of the village in three hours. Team leader, please remain, the rest are dismissed."

The other two larger men nodded before walking out. The average heighted man waited for further instructions. Sarutobi nodded, allowing him to remove his mask. Kakashi revealed his half mask covered face, while his silvery-white hair popped up like a daisy.

"Kakashi-san, Rin-san while be aiding you in this mission."

"Rin-san?" Kakashi asked with curious look, "Certainly you do not mean the daughter of the Taisho clan?"

Sarutobi nodded but before he could speak, a blur flew through the window that was clearly closed. The woman in question straightened up, her midnight blue hiaori was tied tightly around her waist with a large woven belt of some material that Sarutobi was not familiar with; that had a long katana sword tied to it, while a pair of black tights adorned her legs. She wore a pair of knee high black boots with a two-inch heel. Her hair was tied in a high ponytail that was held by two large hair needles, she bowed swiftly, "Hokage-sama, I'm afraid I was momentarily detained. I apologize."

Sarutboi hid a smile behind his pipe as he noticed the look Kakashi was clearly giving the girl. Yes, normally Rin had a certain... chaotic delicacy around her. But before them stood a confident warrior with clear experience, and it seemed that Kakashi was rather impressed.

Rin turned and noticed Kakashi standing beside her. Her eyes lit with excitement, "Ohh! Kakashi-kun! Isn't this interesting now? You and I on a mission together! Who would have thought?"

He nodded, "You are the specialist?"

"Of course I am." Rin replied with a smile, then she turned back to look at Sarutobi, "Mother and Father mentioned something about going to Uncle's forest, but I don't have details."

Sarutobi hid another gleeful smile at Kakashi's stiffening posture, "Yes, it's a rescue mission. You are to help as a guide. Only engage in combat if absolutely necessary, and with the utmost discretion."

"Of course." Rin nodded, "My father was wondering if it would be feasible to receive more of our clan's scrolls that you borrowed. It appears that they may contain more information on father's little project."

"Yes, my secretary will hand them to you. I urge you to take them back to your father's before this mission, they are after all confidential. The team will be regrouping in two and a half hours. That should give you more than enough time."

"Yes, thank you." She turned briefly to catch Kakashi's eye, "Later Kakashi-kun." She bowed again before disappearing into the blur through the window.

Kakashi watched the window for a few lingering seconds, before sharply turning his head towards the Hokage, "You cannot be serious!"

"And why is that?" Sarutobi took several drags before casually glancing up at Kakashi, "Surely you know that she is a seasoned fighter, she also has in-depth knowledge on demons. Something you are more than likely to encounter."

"I do not doubt your knowledge Hokage-sama, however I do not think that you should allow her. If any harm was to come at her, you would have the entire Taisho clan at our throats."

"So you fear for the girl's life?" Sarutobi raised an eyebrow, "You know how to lead Kakashi-san, your team are immaculate examples of shinobi, and that girl is no mere girl. Did you know she was adopted by Lord Taisho, and somehow, he was still able to gift his clan's bloodline to her?" Sarutobi placed his pipe down on his desk, "If anything, I fear for the three of you—not the girl. She was trained within the very forest you are going to. She belongs to the only clan that I have heard of that has such an interesting relationship to nature and its beasts. I doubt very much that she will pose as... possible victim, she is hardly a civilian."

"Of course Hokage-sama." With a respectful bow, Kakashi disappeared with a pop.

Sarutobi sighed before leaning back into his chair. He rubbed his eyes with his left hand more letting out a small chuckle, "Well it seems that you are far more concerned than you should be Kakashi."

Kagome groaned dramatically, "I cannot believe this."

Sesshoumaru barely looked away from his papers, as he continued to read the documents meticulously. "You know that it is hardly something you have control over."

Kagome shot him a dark look, "It's not fair! I want grandbabies!"

"You will have them after our children find their place in life and a mate."

"I was seventeen when I found you! And seriously I'm over eight hundred years old. I need a grandbaby!"

Sesshoumaru sighed, "I was over three hundred and now I am over millennia, yet I am not complaining."

"I really should send some sort of mating charm to all the kids." Kagome mumbled.

"No."

"But—"

"No. Kagome, I will not have you influencing their time."

"Maru-cha—"

"No. Be patient."

"But Naruto is going to take a while with Hina-chan."

Sesshoumaru finally set the paper down and looked at his mate's slouched form. He really wanted to roll his eyes. "Kagome, talk to Hideaki or Shunnuske. Not Naruto, he has not even hit puberty."

"Maru-chaaann." Kagome whined, "I don't want to wait."

"Kagome have you finished your research on the seal?" Sesshoumaru asked with a touch of a serious note in his voice.

Kagome straightened slightly, "Yes, and I can honestly say that it isn't positive I think it would be easier if I called Hideaki down, with him I am sure we can release that seal and take that curse of Shippo."

"It would be too difficult to leave the castle for Hideaki without some sort of consequence. You know this." He sighed before moving to sit beside his mate. "I do not like this at all. I have had little to no luck in finding who his parents were."

"Really? I thought it might be clear... his middle name is Minato, maybe someone linked to that name was his relative? It was on his birth certificate, so maybe something –"

Sesshoumaru's eyes widened the slightest of a fraction. He quickly got up and began pulling books out and flipping through the pages. He mumbled a few choice words about his own thoroughness.

Kagome blinked several times, "What are you doing?"

"It was right in front of us! Koi, it was staring right at us!" Sesshoumaru giddily replied as he leafed through the books until he finally found what he was looking for. "Here it is! He is the son of the fourth Hokage! Minato Arashi Namikaze. He was rumoured to have died from his battle with Shippo. It makes perfect sense that he 'disappeared' after that, it's obvious that he sacrificed his life and his son even for this village. It would be exactly what I would do."

"Whoa! Calm down, Sesshoumaru you can't be serious!" Kagome quickly walked over to where he stood and looked over his shoulder.

"No look!" Sesshoumaru pointed out a picture of the fourth Hokage, though it was a sketch and not an actual photograph, "The hereditary traits are quite obvious."

"Oh wow."

"Hn, it makes perfect sense why I have not been able to get this information. It is probably only known by the Hokage and most probably Jiraya." He then paused and flashed a grin with his fangs, "See it was only a matter of time, I am by far more intelligent than these humans."

Kagome rolled her eyes at him but met him half way for a kiss. "Yes, however darling, it was by a human that you were able to make this discovery."

"Do you know what this means? The child is far more important than we perceived. In actuality Naruto has claim on a great portion of wealth and land in this village. We must begin to train him! I'm sure that in due time he will inherit his own bloodline and that rather odd ability of sealing. This is phenomenal!" Sesshoumaru continued and ignored the exasperated looks Kagome sent his way. "I doubt he will want to become the heir to our clan what with all that he has to claim under his name now." He paused for a second before turning towards Kagome again, "Little One we must make sure that his birth rights are not taken from him."

"Sweetheart, would you just breathe for a minute—" Kagome started.

Sesshoumaru just let out a happy chuckle before grabbing Kagome and twirling her, causing her to laugh at his childish joy. She rarely saw this side of Sesshoumaru, but she truly loved it. "This is wonderful. It is perfect! Although I am appalled at the treatment of the boy. We really need to gain a bigger hand in the politics of this village. Once this comes to light, nothing will hold Naruto back and those stupid and absolutely vile humans will regret their poor decisions."

"Sesshoumaru, would you just stop for a minute!" Kagome finally said grabbing hold of Sesshoumaru's face between her hands. Noticing that her husband was still not looking at her, she smiled before bending slightly to kiss him full on the lips.

When she felt him reply, she quickly pulled away and smiled, "Excellent darling, you did wonderfully. Now, Naruto is already training in everything that is needed in order to become heir. And I think it would be better to still allow him the choice of becoming the heir of our clan."

He smiled at her gently, "You know, I believe I channelled you there for a moment."

Her eyes narrowed, "Hey! It was bound to happen! We've been together for a very, very long time."

"Hn." He set her down but kept her in his arms.

Kagome leaned into his touch enjoying the comfort for a long moment, "I really think I should just dive right into Naruto's soul."

She could feel Sesshoumaru sigh, "Do you remember what happened last time you tried that?"

She mumbled, "Yes, I was in a coma for three months."

"Now, may I ask why you would want to put your family through that again?"

"It worked!" Kagome argued, "It did. I... I want to do whatever I can so that Naruto has more control over himself. He'll be one with his soul. Right now his soul is literally split between Shippo and him. I'm surprised he hasn't become insane. The seal may be what is allowing him that. Do you remember when my soul was split with Kikyo? It was painful... and it never felt complete."

"Jiraya will be in the city in the next four days, and I have already sent the pictures and description of the seal to Hideaki. We need to wait and learn more of the seal before we can do anything." Sesshoumaru emphasized. "I do not under any circumstance want you hurt. You know I am a selfish creature."

She leaned deeper into his embrace, "Okay, but... can I try his dreams? Maybe they will lead to something?"

"If only I go with you. That way I would be able to use my youki to stop anything to try to take over you." Sesshoumaru noticed the raised eyebrow, "Sorry Koi, but I can't lose you."

She smiled before reaching up and tugging his hair so that they could share a soft kiss.

Rin swiftly entered into the room and blinked at her parents, "I'm headed off. I just wanted to say goodnight and see you soon."

Kagome left Sesshoumaru to hug her daughter, "Be safe sweetheart. Call if you need us, we will be there in moments."

"Of course mother." Rin replied.

"Come on Father, this is nothing. I fought in the feudal era and not to mention in the demonic wars. This will be nothing." Rin assured him.

"I believe you get that attitude from your mother." He said with a slight tone of exasperation. "No matter what, we will come if you call. The fang links you to us, do not forget."

She hugged Sesshoumaru around his waist and pecked both her parents. Sesshoumaru gently placed a small lick on the curve of her neck, as Kagome did the same on the opposite side. "Take care."

She smiled before stepping away and disappearing into an orb of gold.

Kagome cocked her head to the right, "Hmm... that blood ritual really does come in hand doesn't it?"

"She is getting lazy." Sesshoumaru noted, "It's a good thing she didn't get the cloud as well. It's bad enough that Hideaki has it."

Kagome hummed in agreement, "Why don't we go check up on Naruto? Then me and you can head a little early to bed."

Sesshoumaru chuckled softly as a dangerously dark glint entered his eyes, "Whatever my mate desires."

Sesshoumaru was not amused.

He had been with some of the important business figures in Konoha when he felt a large amount of embarrassment through his bond. He was curious at first, because the feeling was more of an happy embarrassment. Something he found his mate to have little concept of. Honestly he could count on his hands the amount of times she had ever been embarrassed in the past four centuries.

Interesting for sure, but he was not in any way amused. The emotions kept distracting him, until finally he allowed the men their leave so that he could check on his mate. He followed the corridors until he stepped outside.

Taking a small sniff he turned to go into his backyard.

"Naru-chan, no! Don't move!"

"Moooomm! I'm itchy!"

"I just—ouch!"

"Can't I just use my fox fire?"

"Oh honey, stop before you light both of us on fire!"

"Mom!"

His pace quickened, as his worry grew over the conversation he was picking up. Not two minutes later he found himself, very much surprised. Only centuries of practice allowed his blank mask to remain.

"I find myself over millennia old, and yet my dear mate you always surprise me by the situations you get into." He sighed before warily looking at the mess, "Really Naruto must you try to humour your mother, we all know she is rather eccentric. Next time save each other by not aiding the other."

Before him, was his mate in a tangle of the black ribbon Naruto used to project his fox fire. Naruto was buried to his neck with his arms just passing his shoulders. Sesshoumaru was mildly amused at the position but choose to not show it. One of Naruto's finger seemed to be linked to the ribbon that was currently starting to...move?

His eyes narrowed, "Kagome..." That couldn't possibly be what he was thinking. Yes he knew his mate always pushed people to their limit without them realising, but the child was only six.

Kagome sheepishly looked down, "Ano..."

"Dad!" Naruto whined, "Mom wanted to test something and... and can you please help me out?"

"Naruto! Mother always before Father!"

"But Mooom, I can feel it." Naruto complained, he shivered, "It's like I can hear it talking. They're not supposed to talk!"

"Please, for the love of the Kamis. Please tell me you didn't try to make him make an extension of himself, Kagome." Sesshoumaru pinched the bridged of his nose, while he closed his eyes. He could feel the tinge of embarrassment roll off Kagome and he had his answer. "Kagome, really?"

"At least he succeeded?" Kagome said not sure if she was asking a question or making a statement.

Sesshoumaru exhaled rather nosily. He crouched down to Naruto, "Son, I will be pushing in a sort of shockwave that will loosen the soil so that I can pull you out. It's going to tickle a little."

His palm pushed gently into the ground, and his beast roared silently. Naruto could feel the ground shake with the roar as ripples of shock travelled through the earth that was a meter in diameter around him. Then he looked up to see his father pull him out of the hole and flick the dirt from his kimono. Naruto's eyes were wide, he thought had never heard his father roar, but this sort of silent roar? Oh wow... "Dad you are sooooooo cool!"

Sesshoumaru gave him a soft chuckle, "Thank you, now why don't we deal with your mother?"

"Hey!" Kagome yelled, "I'm still here!"

Naruto pulled at the black band causing Kagome to yelp. "Watch it Naruto! I gave birth to you!"

"Mom, I'm adopted." Naruto scoffed, "and it's your fault we got into this mess to begin with."

"It's hard to remember when you're exactly like me." Kagome muttered while looking at her mate and her son. "Oh come on, would you let me down now?" Her limbs were twined with the ribbon that held her tangled in one of the many trees.

"Maybe we should leave you here as a lesson, Koi." Sesshoumaru said while his lips tilted into a smirk.

Kagome's eyes flashed as Naruto giggled, "That would be a very stupid decision, darling. I know where you keep everything and you Naruto, I will band anything orange and ramen until your old enough to marry!"

Naruto blinked, "Dad! The thing it keeps telling me that Mom might try to purify it."

"Oh for god's sake!" Kagome whined, "I won't purify it."

"Hn. Interesting." Sesshoumaru hummed, "It's not talking... I believe it is communicating to you through pictures." Noticing his son nodded, he inclined his head and "Can you try to constrict it?"

"Wait—"

Naruto's face pinched into concentration and 'slurp' sound was heard as the ribbon retreated and bound itself around his right hand. "Ohh it worked!"

"Yes, we'll begin training with that immediately." Sesshoumaru was quick to inform, as he quickly ordered his momoko to catch Kagome before she got hurt, knowing full well that he could have caught her but choose not to.

A thud was heard as Kagome landed on her back, though Sesshoumaru's momoko had already softened her fall. "Oh yes, thank you so much for helping the poor woman who just fell from ten feet." She added with thick sarcasm as she closed her eyes, enjoying the feel of the momoko beneath her.

"Stop being so over-dramatic, love."

"You stop being so nonchalant."

She felt a shadow cover her slightly, as powerful hands pulled her into their embrace. She sighed softly, at the feel of her mate's comfortable hold. She could feel Naruto standing beside them as he watched them curiously. She knew that he always watched them in some sort of fascination. She even admitted that she found it sad that he needed to see this kind of proof of love. Three years had changed her little son, but it hadn't been enough to heal some of the damage already on his person.

She reached out and pulled Naruto into her lap. She smiled as Naruto cuddled into her and as her mate began to carry them into their home with a gentle smile on his lips. Well at least his family kept him amused, he finally concluded.

"Ne, Mom why can I 'hear' this?" Naruto asked softly.

"Umm… well you know how Dad has that fluffy boa—"

"It's not a boa. It is my momoko." Sesshoumaru quickly cut in, "Naruto, it's an extension of me, should I need a boast of power, I ask my momoko and it would pass it to me. It's a reservoir for demons, well powerful demons."

Kagome nodded, "Yeah, so now since you put a part of… well your inner beast it holds some of your more intense feelings. For example since Dad loves me so much, the momoko saved me from that nasty fall."

"It can also aid you in battle. Not many realise that it has… a mind of its own. Sometimes it will tell you something you may not have noticed before."

Naruto digested everything for a minute or two before saying, "Well, at least mine's cool."

Kagome burst into laughter at the innocently veiled insult towards her mate.

It was so simple.

Naruto tilted his head to the right as he watched the three other men squirm or twitch. Really was this game that hard?

He sighed internally and looked out the window. He had decided to talk to real ninjas to see if he wanted to go to the academy. His parents were so supportive of him and had set up a little visit with the "best" team in Konoha. The S.I.C. or rather what Naruto called them. He had been so excited to learn that he would be around real ninja.

But, luck –fate kicked his ass. The SIC team was nothing more than a bunch of mid thirties guys that drank and gambled. They had played with him by showing him so kiddie—but still cool jutsu and yes that drew Naruto more to it. But really it was a game with little skill, at least in his opinion. Now playing chess or all those strategizing games with his dad? Hard didn't even cover it. So here he was playing poker. The game was boring and didn't really make sense to him. All he knew is that every time they called, he would show his cards and the three older men would groan and argue about how a six year old bested them.

"Alright men, read 'em and weep!" The older Shika said with great gusto as he placed his cards face up on the table.

The other two groaned as they threw their own cards down in disgust. The three men turned to Naruto and waited anxiously about what he would reveal. With a confused look, Naruto showed his cards.

"What?"

"How the fuc—" The man was interrupted as the door was swung opened dangerous.

The men and Naruto turned to see the Lady Taisho, dressed in a beautiful summer dress take in the scene. Her eyebrows twitched dangerously. Her lips a thin line of obvious anger, "Would someone mind telling me why you three would think it is a grand idea to teach a six year old how to gamble?"

"I—"

"That is—"

"Uh... Lady Taisho—"

"Bye!" The men finally said together and popped away.

Naruto grinned widely and ran over to his mother, "Mom! You're here!"

Kagome smiled and lifter her little son up into her arms, "Hey there Naru-chan... I'm sorry I didn't realise that those men were not serious in showing you anything about what it is to be a shinobi. You must be disappointed darling."

Naruto hugged her but shrugged, "Well, I did learn that you should always work as a team."

"That's right. You should know how to work together and how to work independently." Kagome agreed, "Come on, I think speaking with the Hokage would be better to find the true meaning of a shinobi."

"Ne, Mom—I know I don't have to be a ninja... but it would be cool." Naruto paused, "Wh-what if I c-can't become one?" he whispered lowly.

Kagome kissed his hair, "Well darling, you are a Taisho. We Taisho never lose, and we always become legends. I'm sure if you aren't meant to be a ninja you will become something far better. No matter what." She shifted Naruto a little as she began to exit the room, "Though honey, you won't have a problem becoming a shinobi. You know all that training you do at home? That baby, is going to help you out so much. Plus you've got Rin-chan, Dad and me to help you along the way. Nothing to fear. Remember that, as long as we are here there is nothing to fear."

"So we're going to go see Hokaga-sama?"

"Yeah, I can't believe he actually talked me into letting you be with that... that team. Honestly, yes teamwork is important. But it's not the only thing that is important. I know you have never seen your father fight—" Kagome paused and gave a wistful sigh, "Oh... he's amazing! It's almost artful."

"Mom...can you put me down?" Naruto asked as they neared the entrance door.

Kagome pouted, "But of course darling. Now, off to see the Hokage!"

"Follow the crossroads?"

"Well done, my little spawn!"

"Mom... you've been watching too many movies." Naruto finally said as he held Kagome's hand tightly.

"Naruto! You can never watch too many movies. They're educational!" Kagome was quick to defend, "You know it's those very movies that allow me to try certain things! They are an excellent source of ideas for pranks on your father, uncle or older brothers!"

"Is Nee-chan not included?"

"Oh she is, but you see Rin and I tend to work together. She knows better than to try anything on me. We have a mutual understanding that we don't target one another." She paused as she noticed the stares, paying them no mind she continued, "It is highly entertaining."

Naruto shook his head slightly at his mother's crazy nature. They talked amiably as they neared the Hokage's office.

"You know Naru-chan, we should go to the park today!" Kagome continued happily, "It's been a while since we've had ice cream there."

They continued to walk until they met up with Hokage. Naruto smiled and ran up to him as he rapidly fired questions about being a ninja. The Hokage chuckled at the boy before slowly explaining what a ninja was.

"It is someone who fights for something they wish to protect, for their family, their village and for themselves."

Kagome smiled, "That is the definition of a warrior. You know, your father was told by your grandfather that true strength was only given to those who wished protect someone dear to them."

"Very wise of the late Taisho-sama to say." The Hokage acknowledged.

"Mom, do you really think that being a shinobi would make me grow to be a better person?"

Kagome nodded, "That and more, plus my sweet child, you will also learn of our clan and continue training with us. Besides honey, strength alone doesn't make you a better person, it's this heart in you that does."

Naruto nodded trying to understand. "Can we have ice cream now?"

"Of course! Hokage-sama, would you like to join us?" Kagome asked the Hokage as she made sure to hold her son's hand.

"I do believe that pistachio ice cream is calling my name." The Hokage smiled before asking Kagome about how Lord Taisho was doing.

"Well last time I entered the study he was making great progress on his paperwork." Kagome answered, "Naru-chan was supposed to help, but somehow escaped and I got stuck helping him out."

"Mom! That was a secret!" Naruto whined, "Hokage-sama, don't listen to her!"

The Hokage laughed and winked, "I didn't hear anything Naruto-kun, for a simple price of course."

Naruto looked at the Hokage with large eyes, before narrowing them slightly, "What price?"

"Ah, it's simple. You have to come and help me with my paperwork."

Naruto's face contorted into that of a complete mortification, before he sighed, "Grownups are so weird. Why would I want to help do your work?"

"That's part of growing, as your elders, we're allowed to annoy as much as we want. It's the law!" The Hokage was quick to reply.

"But that's not fair!" Naruto started, "just because you're older doesn't mean that—oh! HINA-CHAN!" Naruto yelled in happiness before sending a pleading look to Kagome, "Please Mom! Please, it's Hina-chan!"

Kagome laughed before nodding a yes, "Sure Naruto, but be nice."

"I'm always nice Mom!" Naruto called over his shoulder as he ran over to Hinata.

"When did this occur, Lady Taisho?" the Hokage watched as he watched the shy girl give the exuberant Naruto a hug and smile brightly at him, "I have never seen the Hyuuga Heir so happy."

"Yes, we find it astonishing as well..." Kagome trailed off with a smile, before shaking her head ruefully, "That right there proves he belongs with my family. See Hokaga-sama, the children of the Taisho have this ability to identify the one and true mate to their soul. It's a fascinating process, not necessarily to those that are actually bonding because, let me tell you, frankly it is hell at times, but the end result is simply magical."

"That is truly amazing!" The Hokage mumble, as he tried to see any type of spiritual connection.

"Ohmygod! Look! Look!" Kagome pointed with gleeful eyes, "They're holding hands!" She laughed, "I cannot wait to tell Sesshoumaru, I soo owned that bet!"

Rin looked around as she travelled at her own pace. The squad was travelling rather quickly, but Rin found it comforting. The sounds of the night had always pleased her and reminded her of her childhood where she had followed her father and mother while holding or playing with Shippo. She closed her eyes and concentrated, letting her aura expand and pass over the shinobi. They were a good four day's travel away from Inuyasha's forest, but the threat of a demon was always consistent.

Her eyes opened and looked at their leader. Kakashi Hatake was an enigma to her. Not that she would show it, since many believed her to be a ditsy and happy girl. However, she was a very seasoned warrior. She had seen the cruelty of the old world and now the new; she was almost eight hundred years old. Which was why she couldn't quite place the shinobi in a category. She could easily see the tremendous amount of potential the teenager held, or just the rumors she had heard about him kept pulling her attention back to him.

He was often seen as a lazy, boring and a pervy ninja. She knew though. She knew she could not judge him on face value, that had been adamant when she noticed how often he kept watch over Naruto. Or how he kept to himself as if afraid to form any meaningful relationships. She wanted to hug him and tell him that everything would be okay, but at the same time she wanted to shake him and tell him to get a grip. She knew how people gave up on themselves and she never wanted him to go through that.

She never claimed to be innocent. She really had seen it all, as much as her family had tried to protect her. She had lost it all... After receiving her immortality, Shippo and she had travelled as far as they could. And with the travelling she had seen far more than a changed-human should have. Her relationship with Shippo had also taken some of her innocence. She was his first, just as he was her first in every aspect of the word. She would have given her life for his, just as she knew he would have for her.

As much as they worked well together, and as much as they loved each other, in their early second century they had happened upon a Seer who had told them that no future was before them. They had tried to fight the old Seer's words, but the truth could not hide. By the end of the century he could be nothing more than the perfect best friend. Leaving her, Shippo had gone to find himself.

She had a broken heart that she had thought would never heal. But, with time Shippo and she could be nothing more. They had embraced their new relationship and thrived to be happy. They—well Shippo succeeded. She had always been envious when she noticed him grow into a powerful warrior and a strong general. She could always see how proud her parents were of him. And... she would stay home and watch him move on.

But... now she felt like she was moving. He, that shinobi—a mere human of the age of nineteen—made her feel again.

That's was why she was surprised at her interest in Kakashi. He brought out feelings in her that she hadn't felt since her first love. She wanted to cry when she felt the flutter of butterflies or the rising of heat in her cheeks. She felt that she could fly to the seventh sky from his voice or how just one look from him could make her melt.

So she had promised herself, she would do it for Shippo. She would do it for herself and she would grow. She would allow herself to be pulled in by this ninja. She would fall and make sure he did as well. She smiled feeling herself lighten at the mere thought. She glanced up into the sky and sent a silent prayer of thanks to Shippo for always watching over her.

"We'll stop here for the night."

Rin almost stumbled at the words and slowed as she came to rest before the squad. Like clockwork the team began to settle for the night. She watched curiously as they put up tents and quickly started a small fire for cooking.

A female with a butterfly mask asked, "Rin-san you should set up for the night."

"I enjoy sleeping under the stars." Rin answered honestly, "It reminds me of my childhood." She knew that the elements would be more than sufficient in giving her a good night's sleep. "I can keep first watch."

At the three of the masked members looked at her. She grinned, "Come on. I was an actual member of the military. I know how to do all this. Besides, I do not actually need sleep for more than two to three hours a night." She then gave a short bow, before taking up into the trees and coming to rest in a position where she could easily gauge the main perimeter of the camp and herself.

She watched as they two other shinobi turned towards their leader and begin to question her prescence in the team.

"Enough. She is our guide to the forest and more than proficient fighter." She heard Kakashi respond, "She's the daughter of the Taisho clan, don't you think she would know how to hold on her own."

She smiled softly hearing him defend her. With little concentration, she created a barrier around the camp and leaned back into the tree as she began to study the stars. It was funny really, the stars were the only thing that had remained consistent. She could gaze at them forever. Sometimes she liked to believe that if the stars could talk, they would sing a beautiful lullaby to help those with hardships sleep with a lighter heart. Of course her brother, Hideaki would argue and say that they were large balls of gases. Really, that boy could not appreciate the poetic beauty of the sky.

Longer than she realised, she was jostled out of the trance when she felt someone come to sit on the same branch as her. She looked over and saw the butterfly girl.

"You are different." The girl said softly.

Rin felt an involuntary smile grace her lips, "That's sweet of you to say."

"No, you are. I... I'm not going to lie, but I really did think you would be more..." The girl said trailing off, not sure if Rin would find offense to that.

Rin laughed, "Ahh, you mean that I'm not some pretentious princess?" She paused thoughtfully, "To tell you the truth, there are many reasons why I'm not."

"You truly look like one." The female shinobi began, "You dress and walk as if you're dancing. You belong to one of the wealthiest clans, not to mention the only major clan that can travel freely."

"I can see that. But you must realise that my clan's prestige is solely based on my parents' and ancestors' achievements." Rin relied as her gazed shifted back to the skies, "Besides, I was adopted into my family. I have seen a world where I was nothing more than the little girl that refused to speak in fear or the girl that barely got by in the week." She remembered those nights clearly before her father had found her. "Those moments keep me grounded."

The girl hummed for a second, taking in what the older girl had said, "I doubt many would feel the way you do."

Rin shrugged, "I've been fortunate."

"Why are you doing this?"

Rin giggled, "Well, to tell you the truth, I'm actually going to be bringing my Uncle back with us. Mom's been trying to get him to meet Naruto for almost three years now. While Dad's been trying the exact opposite."

"So your uncle in on the way?"

"Ohh noo. He lives in the forest." Rin replied.

"Wait what?" the butterfly cried, "How the hell can someone live in such a dangerous forest?"

"The Bone-Eaters Forest isn't bad at all. Hardly dangerous, really." Rin paused as she remembered some of the places she had been in, "Yeah... Uncle's forest isn't so bad... but—" She shivered, "—there are some pretty epic places out there."

"Aren't... aren't there demons there?"

Rin shrugged, "To tell you the truth, it's been a while since I've been there. Last time I went there was when I did my training there with my ex." Rin placed her hand casually on the hilt of her sword the Tsubasa. She could feel the presence of several creatures surrounding the camp. She tilted her head slightly trying to read their body signatures, before she sighed internally. "We're surrounded."

Butterfly's body language changed and quickly made her way to their commander. Rin extended her aura giving fair warning to the approaching animals. With a quick movement she unsheathed her sword and jumped into the middle of the camp startling the awakening shinobi. She embedded the Tsubasa into the ground causing the earth under their feet to ripple.

"H-hey!"

"What are you doing?"

"F-fuck."

"How many?" Kakashi asked, moving to stand next to her.

"Seven. They're some sort of crawling creatures." She answered as she felt the movement of the creatures, raising her voice she began, "Any closer and you all are dead."

The movement ceased immediately causing the shinobi to shift uncomfortably.

A large centipede like creature came into the clearing. Rin left Tsubasa in the ground and moved to the insect with her hands held before her. She felt Kakashi try to pull her back, but she gave him a reassuring smile.

"Laaadyeee Riiiinn." The creature rasped.

"Hello, can I be of service?" Rin spoke softly as she continued to move before the creature.

"Weee feeeltt yoourrr auuuraaa," the creature began, "weee briiing waaarning of eeeviil huuumaan."

Rin's eyes automatically narrowed, "What kind of human?"

"Theee kiiind thaaat staaands beesiide yoouu."

"Is it a threat that I need to take care of?" Hoping it would realise the implications.

"Noooo. It is theesee huuumaan's reespoonsiiibiiliitiieess."

"Then why warn me?"

It bowed lowly, "Yooouu aarree whooo yooouu aarree."

Rin almost rolled her eyes, "Yes, well thank you. If it is not a mess that I need to handle, I will not interfere until it poses a threat to my people. I will notify the right channels. Was there anything else?"

"Yeeesss." The centipede rasped, "Yoouu neeed too geeet thereee earrlieer iif yooou aree to saavvee thee girl. Weee ooffeer ooour seervicees."

"Wha—" Kakashi began to ask only to be silenced by Rin's hand.

"That would be very kind. We need the utmost discretion, as well that my friends here are... shall we say new to this experience. Even I have not travelled on one of you in a while."

"Aaalll shaaall bee prooviiideed."

Rin nodded, "Thank you and your family." She moved to pull out the sword effectively taking the barrier off. Three semi large centipedes stepped out while the other three left. She turned to her team, "Uh... so this family has kindly provided us with discrete travel that will result in us getting there faster. The key is use your ki—wait you guys call it chakra right? Well, you use your chakra and focus it around the beasts."

The two other shinobi turned to look at Kakashi, as their leader his say would be final. Rin noticed the movement and silently cursed. She was used to giving the orders. She had overstepped her role. She closed her eyes in mortification. She knew that this was unacceptable behaviour for a subordinate.

Kakashi had been watching the whole scene play out and was amused when Rin finally noticed her behaviour. He wasn't sure how exactly he should react, sure she was a trained and brilliant person (not that he would ever admit it to said girl) but she was also under his command. Technically she was a civilian. His eyes moved to the giant beasts behind her, if what they said was true, they really did need to get to the area to save the girl.

His decision made, he nodded, "As Taisho-san said." And that was how their team found themselves hanging on for dear life as the centipedes travelled with great speed underground.

Jiraya was a man of honour, a man of prestige and of power. He was a man of elegance, a man so knowledgeable and intelligent that had an odd—but a very creative outlet. Some believed him to be a God.

Well, he did anyway.

He was a little surprised to be back in his village, sure he came every so many years, but… this time it was different. This time his little protégé wasn't here. His heart felt heavy over what had happened, and the fact that he didn't even know if his godson was alive? That… that was just too much.

He sighed softly and discreetly made his way to the clan houses. He had been mildly surprised when Sesshoumaru had written to him and asked him for an audience in Konoha. Though Jiraya had met the man a handful times, he somehow doubted that a village like Konoha would be his scene. But he dutifully obliged as he did owe several favours to the powerful man.

Jiiraya was intrigued though. The Taisho family was a very respected name, it brought many great joy in hearing the name, and many other fear. There wasn't much left in the world that the Taisho did not have a hand it. Really, so what would they need him for. He knew for a fact that the Taisho intelligence system was top notch and even people now did not know how they truly processed and gained their information. So, it wasn't that surely.

It probably wasn't about his encounters with missing nin either. So what on earth could it be? Jiiraya glided right into the Taisho compound, he could feel the seals accept him and allow his passage. He then straightened and knocked on the door.

A beautiful woman in her mid twenties opened the door. Her eyes were a brilliant sapphire blue that sparkled and her hair cascaded around her in simple but delicate waves. Jiiraya blinked back surprise at her alarming beauty, and charmingly he bowed, "Oh aren't I lucky to partake in such beauty!"

She laughed and rolled her eyes, "Sesshoumaru's waiting for you Jiiraya-san. And this... it isn't are first meeting."

"But I would never forget such a lovely and beautiful face!" Jiiraya argued as he gave a long look. Damn, how would he forget such a wonderful looking body?

She smiled as if amused with a child and lead him in, "Sesshoumaru is in his office, can I offer you anything to drink?"

Jiiraya grinned rather lewdly, "Well I could go with—"

"I would stop right there Jiiraya. That woman is far more dangerous than she looks." A voice called out.

"Aren't all the gorgeous ones?" Jiiraya turned to see his old friend, Sesshoumaru. He grinned again, "Why you haven't aged at all!"

"And you have aged far more than your fifty years." Sesshoumaru replied, raising an eyebrow, "Follow me, this matter is rather important."

"You're no fun." But Jiiraya followed his old friend, but not before giving a rather disappointed look to the woman. They quickly made their way into Sesshoumaru's study and he could feel the seals take place. He was fairly impressed by their strength. "Seems you've been at work with all this sealing."

"Ah... yes, I have been—but that is a different type of sealing. It's to do with our bloodlimit." He replied as he sat down gracefully behind his desk. He pulled out a few documents before leaning forward on his elbows and criss-crossing his fingers through his other hand. "I need a favour. Next to my son, you are the only one I know that is... involved with such things."

Jiiraya's eyes narrowed before he took a seat before the large desk. "Will it break any of my village's laws?"

"Not likely." Sesshoumaru paused for a brief moment, "Not when I already know the secret and am not bound."

"What secret?"

"Naruto, his parentage and his origins."

"What are you talking about?" Jiiraya asked, his eyebrows furrowed in confusions, "Who is Naruto?"

Sesshoumaru's eyebrows rose before he slowly began, "What do you know of the Nine-Tail fox's attack on Konoha?"

"I—" Jiiraya looked away, "I haven't been in the village since four months before the attack. I couldn't come back when there was nothing left here."

There was a pregnant pause, before Sesshoumaru sighed, "I should be surprised you were not told of what happened. But, oddly enough I'm not since the council is difficult here. To sum up the situation, the Fourth defeated the nine-tails and sealed him into his own son, Naruto. Coincidently, Naruto is my adopted son."

Jiiraya slumped into his seat, and closed his eyes as he leaned back. A large lump formed in his throat as he silently mourned for his student and his family. He sent several grateful prayers to the gods for saving his godson. He could feel Sesshoumaru watching him carefully, "H-How did you adopt him?"

"My wife fell in love with the boy three years ago." Sesshoumaru's lips lifted slightly, "I have been nothing but impressed at his potential and ability. Really it is quite fascinating to see how much determination and strength he holds. I will probably name him my heir."

That caused Jiiraya's head to snap up to meet Sesshoumaru's eyes, with widened ones, "You are not serious?"

"I am. Naruto is everything I could want in an heir. My two sons are not interested in the title nor is my daughter, if Naruto shows any interest in my clan it will be his."

"The boy has more here." Jiiraya pointed out.

Sesshoumaru gave a hallow chuckle, "The treatment of the boy was truly abhorrent. The people here are prejudice, hypocrites that no nothing of true honor. I fear what would have happened to him had my wife not found him when she did."

"The Kamis forgive me." Jiiraya let out as he gave a broken sigh. "Forgive me Minato and Kushina."

"It is hardly your fault." Sesshoumaru said.

"Had I been here none of this would have happened!"

"Stop that." Sesshoumaru snapped, "I understand, but those are merely what ifs. They are of the past and cannot be changed. You are a very capable person and to hold the events of the past will only hold you back."

"I just found this out, I need to come terms with it!" Jiiraya snapped back.

"You already knew of the death of the two... what you didn't know was the survival of the child. To be honest, you should be happy about it, and mourn for your friends later."

"Fine. What did you need from me then?"

Sesshoumaru looked away, "You can trust me and I have never given you a reason not to. Naruto is my son. I treat him as such. I would do anything for my family... which is why I need help. The seal that was used on Naruto is fairly unstable. The aura of the youkai is tainted, and will taint Naruto in time. I don't want that to happen to him." His molten gold eyes moved to pierce Jiiraya's. "The seal will destroy him. My wife has spiritual abilities and will be able to purify the demon, but I cannot until the seal is released."

Jiiraya nodded, "I will do whatever is necessary to save his life. It is only fair."

Sesshoumaru's posture relaxed slightly, "Thank you. You have no idea how much my family and I appreciate it." With strong hands, he passed the exact replica of the seal on Naruto's stomach to Jiiraya.

Jiiraya's eyes widened as he saw his late student's work. "I will need time. This... it's very complicating."

"I know... I have studied it for hours, and yet I can't seem to understand some of the symbols. They seem to be the Fourth's own creations."

"I can see that. Minato was a very intelligent man, I wouldn't be surprised." Jiiraya's eyes roamed over each kanji, symbol and wave of ink on the parchment.

"You are more than welcome to stay here Jiiraya. Though I would suggest that your lecherous ways do not make their way to Naruto, because I assure you my wife will murder you." Sesshoumaru said with a smirk.

Jiiraya grinned, "Hey, I'm the crazy uncle to that kid. He was—is my godson."

"Oh?" Sesshoumaru asked with a little tilt of his lips, "Well then, you need all the guidance that the Kamis can give to you. That child is a sponge, and I will not be surprised when you find yourself in a situation you least expect." Sesshoumaru titled his head back, running his hand through his hair, "Ahh... I am sure you remember the cardinal rule of my clan."

He nodded, "It's a little hard to forget after what your son tried to do that last time I saw you."

"Hideaki has always been a far too curious boy."

"Expect the unexpected, correct?"

"More than ever. It seems to a contagious trait."

Jiiraya laughed, "Yes..." Jirraya stood and stretched, "I have a few things to do, and I need to meet up with the Hokage. Then I'll work on the seal. If you are able to purify the demon, then... Naruto will be a normal boy wouldn't he?"

Sesshoumaru stood and moved from behind his desk, "Well... as normal as a boy growing in a Ninja village can be."

Jiiraya scratched his chin, "Hmm well, then as long he will be happy."

Sesshoumaru's eyes meet Jiiraya's, "I will do anything to make sure that he is. He will always have a family and a place to go to."

Jiiraya bowed deeply to his friend, "I truly can't thank you enough. Sesshoumaru, I will always be indebted to your family."

Sesshoumaru reached out and held his hand out, giving him a soldier's handshake, gripping his forearm. "There is nothing to thank. It was our pleasure, besides; Naruto gives a new light to our family that we had lost some years ago with the death of one of my sons."

Jiiraya smiled, "Best be off then."

Jiiraya left through the window like any other "decent" shinobi would do. He easily shifted some chakra to his feet and began to move with great speed when he noticed a bath house on the property. He stopped rather abruptly and tilted his head to the right... Just a peek right?

It wouldn't hurt anyone. Right?

So he leaned a little to get a look through some windows.

"What are you doing?" Naruto asked with his head cocked to the right, "Because if Mom finds you peeking into her bath, she's going to skin you alive and then Dad is going to dunk you into something acidic before finding a way to keep you alive and conscious while extracting all your organs out of your body and crushing them before your eyes."

He turned to look to see a little blond boy with bright blue eyes watching his curiously. He had so much resemblance to the Fourth that it was unbelievable. "What are you doing here gaki?"

"Hey!" Naruto cried, "I live here!"

"You shouldn't be here, and you definitely should not be threatening people like that." Jiiraya posed .

Naruto raised an eyebrow, "Jiiraya right? Part of the three Sanin?" He clicked his tongue, "You're not what I expected of a Sanin."

"Watch it kid!" Jiiraya snapped with narrowed eyes, god his attitude was even like the Minato and Kushina. Fuck... if he was anything like Kushina, he knew that it was only going to be moments before he found trouble.

"You know you really need to learn who to pick fights with."

"And you really need to watch your mouth."

"Ero-sanin... that's what's become of the legendary seal master? You're pathetic!"

"Says the twerp that I could crush like a bug with my pinky!"

"Try me!"

"Bring it on, midget!"

The team stiffly got off the centipedes and Rin bid them well. Kakashi was impressed... not that he would admit it. It was kinda cool that she was identified from miles away. Come on, he was a guy! Anyway, he had watched as her prescence with the creatures had proved that she really was more than she seemed. Sometimes... well when she had been speaking to the creatures, it seemed that she had an old soul, that was the only way he could describe it.

He sighed lightly when the group turned to look at him. He nodded, "Standard. Taisho-san will be guarded while we travel for the rest of the way. The rest, you have already been debriefed on."

The team formed into a triangle with Rin in the middle. She rolled her eyes before going with it. Kakashi though kept an eye on her. Since they had entered the Bone-Eater's Forest, it would only be a small amount of time before something came for them.

He felt more than saw a strong presence waft over them. From the corner of his eye, he could see it was coming from Rin. His eyebrows furrowed in thought, who was she really? He could feel that the deeper that they travelled into the forest the stronger the sense of dread filled him and his team.

"Not this way." Rin spoke up. "That's not the right way... I can feel a human—seven humans over towards North east."

He turned slightly, and nodded. "Taisho-san are you sure?"

"Yeah. There are several others... youki signatures around. But there seems to be the distinct aura of humans that way." Rin paused thoughtfully, "They aren't normal humans... it seems as if they were injected? I'm not sure... experimented on? Their aura is not completely that of humans."

"Formation B."

The team nodded and pushed back behind Rin, while he himself paced himself with her. But found that she had no problem keeping a very fast pace. He continued to keep her in the corner of his good eye as they moved closer to the location. A few minutes later he signalled everyone to a stop, and summoned Paku.

"Check the area out?" With a nod the dog disappeared into the area. Kakashi then turned towards the team, "Let's create camp here. Rest until the time to attack."

They all nodded and worked to set up the camp. Rin moved to the far side of the camp and touched the tree lightly, before turning and helping the rest of the team fix their camp. She moved gracefully, almost as if she was dancing while she flitted through with the preparations. Kakashi himself went around the camp, placing a few traps to alert the team. When he got back, they all were sitting around the fire, either sharpening their weapons or—well Rin was playing with her hair chopsticks or simply eating waiting for him.

Kakashi nodded to everyone and received a mega watt smile from Rin, causing him to blink. He pulled out the Icha Icha Summer series, volume II. He didn't even glance at the words but observed his group and surroundings. He could tell that the group was on edge, most likely due to the large and intimidating forest. With a quick nod, "I'll take first watch."

Everyone nodded and when into their respective sleeping positions. All except Rin. She watched him as she drew out her hair from its high ponytail and swept a hand through it several times. She then moved to sit beside him.

Kakashi for the life of him couldn't look away, this is getting dangerous.

"Kakashi-kun, this is quite fun isn't it! Though it would have been better under different circumstances." She started with a large smile, "I really do hope... that this would lead to some sort of friendship between us. I know that you watch over Naru-chan, which in itself is pretty amazing." She paused to glance away, "They say that you a very motivated shinobi... I would think with your free time, you would something else..."

"I knew his parents." Kakahi found himself saying. His eyes widened, "I... think of him as a little brother."

"Mother and Father have noticed." Rin said not giving away anything. "You know you are more than welcome to come over to actually play with him. He's a good kid, a little misunderstood but good."

"I..." Kakashi paused not truly sure how to reply, "Thank you."

"Anytime. Kakashi-kun." Rin said with a smile, "I should take first watch though... unlike you, I do not need sleep. It's part of my bloodlimit."

"Yes, you mentioned that earlier." He began, "However it is not required for you to do so. You are simply a guide to this forest. It would be dishonourable for us to allow such a thing."

Rin's eyes widened a fraction before a large smile lit her face, "How odd Kakashi-kun that a shinobi speak of honour. It was my belief that the shinobi is the art of sleuth, and assassination. Not one of head on battles such as a duel."

Kakashi felt his lips tilt into a smile, "True, but some of us have been taught that there is honour in the ways of a shinobi. I for one believe that there is a moral compass that allows us to remain somewhat honourable."

Rin leaned back on her hands as she turned to gaze up into the night sky, "There used to be a time where our actions were simply based on the level of honour one had, not on the wealth or family you belonged to." She closed her eyes, and Kakashi could not look away as the partial moon lit her more prominent features, "It was a time where there was constant war though. What I would give to go back... and live in such an innocent world. But... even if I could, I don't think I would be happy. Those times though innocent in some ways, were more straining as well."

"You... seem experienced in that way." He noted softly.

Rin finally looked over to him, her eyes holding a sad emotion, "Kakashi-kun I will not lie to you... I am far older than I appear. It's almost like a curse than a bloodlimit, not that I'm not thankful for it... but I have seen far too much death by humans to humans. My family tries to remain distanced from it, but when your parents are a legend it is hard to not remain associated."

"You're a princess."

"Not by birth I'm not. I was adopted into a family that made me into a sort of princess. The only female child of the great and noble Taisho clan." She gave a rather cold giggle, "The only one at the age of marriage, my name means more to others who wish to link themselves to my clan. I've never had an honest relationship besides one... and that one we decided very early on that we weren't for more. A princess I may be but not one without my own chains."

Kakashi found he didn't have much to say. As a child there was an unsaid expectation that he would do well as according to his father. But... that changed and soon rumors circulated if he would be like his father and fail. Really, it was odd. One could say that words do not have affect on a person, but that was certainly untrue.

"I'll go check out the area." She murmured getting away from the silent shinobi.

With a sigh Kakashi stretched lightly, his eyes never leaving her form as she disappeared into the trees. He began to think about his past, his father had caused so much pressure to fall on his shoulders. Though he would give that his father's pressure was intentional, it had taken him forever to understand. For some reason Rin reminded him of his father in a peculiar way. Why he didn't know. But something... something about her just reminded him of his later father.

He watched diligently until he began to note that Rin hadn't returned. He mentally counted back when he had last seen her... with the widening of his eyes he realised it had been well over two hours. He quickly woke up the rest of the team. He went to look for the missing Taisho.

He cursed this was actually why he didn't want the girl on this mission with them. It would have been easier if someone else had come along

Preview:

- His eyes widened, okay so maybe he had just been defeated by a girl, but that didn't mean that he would agree with her. However when she looked at him with a smirk, he just knew he was doomed for the rest of eternity. He liked her. Fuck, he really was doomed.

- "It's a fucking cat!" Inuyasha all but growled in exasperation, "Grow a fucking pair and get to it."

-"I'm a Taisho." Naruto said with a grin, "I can kick your sorry ass from here to the freaking moon." Beside him Hinata rolled her eyes before sending a small prayer to the heavens for her friend to pass this phase of competitive nature with Lee-san.

-"Wait you're not even a shinobi!" Naruto whined, "Dad! Tell Uncle Yasha to leave!"

- "You know Inuyasha, I always did take you for a fool..." Sesshoumaru began, "But as a pedophile too? Now you truly have surpassed even my estimations of foolery."

"Oi! You have no right to say that!" Inuyasha was quick to retort, "Kagome is over two hundred years younger than you!"

"Ah, but not seven hundred. That adds five hundred years of a black mark on you."

AN: I was going to have the last part the one where Kakashi is thoroughly impressed by Rin in this chapter, however I'm already at over 14K, so I have decided to cut that and instead have it in the next chapter.