talking: "talking"

thinking: "thinking"

thinking while casting a jutsu: 'thinking jutsu'

animal summons/tailed-beast talking: "talking"

animal summons/tailed-beast thinking: "thinking"

jutsu: "jutsu"

disclaimer: I do NOT own Naruto or any anime/manga character. I only own my OC.

Chapter 17: An Unwelcomed Homecoming

-With Hikari-

Hikari was carrying Hitomi through the forest, followed by Guy, in an attempt to reach Bryon. Thanks to Guy, they had managed to defeat the Cloud and Frost ninja. At the moment, Hikari was trying to move as fast as possible while being careful not to further harm Hitomi.

Hitomi, concerned about Bryon's safety, activated her Byakugan. What she saw shocked her. She stopped on the next branch, Guy landing right beside her.

"What is it, Lady Hikari?" Guy asked, curious as to why she would suddenly stop.

It took a moment before Hikari replied. But when she did, Guy could hear an almost dangerous tone in her voice. "Guy. Please tell me you didn't teach Bryon that technique."

"Hm. What technique?" Guy asked, confused.

Hikari turned to him and glared. "The Eight Inner Gates! How is it that Bryon knows it?!" Hikari asked, barely refraining herself from yelling out loud.

"Wh...?" Guy said, shocked. "That's impossible! I would never teach such a dangerous technique to Bryon! Especially since he's only six!" Guy explained.

"Then how could Bryon have opened the Third Gate?" Hikari asked.

She didn't receive an answer, as Guy was too shocked to reply. Hikari could tell that by Guys reaction, he truly hadn't taught Bryon how to use the 'Eight Inner Gates'. "This is bad! We need to get to him as soon as possible! If we don't, then I'm afraid his body won't be able to withstand the strain the Third gate will put on him!" Guy said in a panic, before he rushed off.

Hikari quickly followed, and caught up with him. Despite Guy being able to move, he was still exhausted from using the 'Inner Gates'.

-With Bryon-

Bryon suddenly appeared right behind the group of Cloud Genin, landing on one knee with his right arm stretched out. It took a moment for the Cloud Genin to register that he had even moved. They turned their heads to see the boy rising to his feet. As they turned to face him, their swords seemed as they were just suddenly cut in half. Their blades fell to the ground, causing them to turn their heads toward their swords as the heard the sound of metal hitting the earth.

"N...no way!" Said on of the female Genin. "Ho...how did he...?" She asked, shocked by what happened.

"Damn it! It doesn't matter! We'll just have to fight him using our Jutsu!" Said the short tempered boy, as he quickly started hand-signs after throwing the rest of his sword to the side.

His teammates followed his example and got ready to fight after he launched his jutsu.

Seeing that they discarded their weapons, Bryon placed his scythe behind his back and sealed it away for the time being.

"Water Style: Liquid Bullet Barrage!" The boy said, launching five balls of water toward Bryon, who had just finished sealing his scythe away.

Bryon suddenly vanished again, causing all of the balls of water to hit the trees and ground behind his previous location. Bryon the suddenly appeared before the boy, about to strike him before another of the Cloud Genin called out her own jutsu. "Lightning Style: Flash Pillar!" She called out, as she discharged electricity from her body and causing a bright flash.

As the flash died down, Bryon was gone from sight. "Thanks." Said the boy, who was about to be struck by Bryon.

"Don't thank me just yet. Keep your guard up everyone." She ordered.

"Take you own advice." Said Bryon, as he suddenly appeared behind her. Before she could even turn, Bryon swung his left arm at her head. His back-fist didn't connect, but his Phantom Fist of his attack did. The attack knocked the girl toward the side, knocking her unconscious as she hit a tree.

Before any of the other Cloud Genin could react, Bryon moved from one to another. Each one of them took only a single hit. Whether it was a kick to the gut, punch to the head, vice versa or Bryon's Phantom Fist attack, each one of them was knocked unconscious against a tree or past the tree line.

Bryon was standing in the middle of the small clearing, still in his Inner Gates Mode. He was about to start moving again, to go gather back up, when he suddenly collapsed onto his stomach and started screaming out in agonizing pain. "AAAAAAARRRGGGHH!"

Shortly after he started screaming, Hikari with Hitomi and Guy appeared by his side. Hikari quickly set Hitomi down to check on Bryon. "Bryon! You have to close the 'Inner Gates'! The longer you have them open, the more damage you'll receive to your body and the more pain you'll be in!" Hitomi yelled, concern for the boy eminent in her voice.

Unfortunately, Bryon couldn't hear her. Or rather, he couldn't focus on anything other than the pain he was in. The pain he was feeling was growing steadily, causing him to scream even louder as tears flowed heavily from his eyes.

"It's no good, Lady Hikari! The pain he's going through is too intense for him to handle! You have to use the Gentle Fist to close the 'Inner Gates'!" Said Guy, the urgency in his voice being unmistakable.

"What?!" Hikari yelled, looking at Guy. "That'll only hurt him more!"

"It's better than the alternative! If he stays like this it could stunt his growth, and risk his future as a shinobi! You have to do it!" Guy yelled back.

Hikari looked shock for a brief moment, before composing herself and nodding. "Alright."

Guy then quickly picked Bryon up, ignoring the increased screaming the action caused, and turned Bryon's back toward Hikari. Hikari, who still had her Byakugan active, quickly located the Third Gate in the spinal column. She quickly struck it, closing the gate and causing Bryon's skin to return to it's natural color And causing Bryon more pain. Guy the immediately turned Bryon around, so that Hikari would have much easier access to the First and Second Gates. Once Guy did that, Hikari quickly struck the Second then the First Gate.

Once the gates were closed, Bryon finally passed out from the pain. Guy then gently lifted Bryon into his arms. "We should get going Lady Hikari. These two need immediate medical attention." Said Guy.

Hikari picked up Hitomi and placed her on her back, before standing back up and replying. "You're right. Let's hurry, before these Genin come to." She said, before they both ran off into the direction of the nearest medical camp.

-Later-

Bryon slowly woke up, opening his eyes he tried to move but quickly realized that he couldn't. And any move he could make, hurt. "What happened?" He asked himself, before remembering the battle he had. He also remembered how he was getting beaten, how he sensed Guy's increase in strength, and how he managed to replicate that strange technique. He then remembered beating the Cloud Genin, before he started to feel the intense pain that suddenly hit him. He wondered why he suddenly felt so much pain, when a voice interrupted his thoughts.

"You're finally awake." Said Hikari, as she came from behind the white curtain on his left.

"Hikari. What happened to Hitomi? Is she ok?" Bryon asked, turning his head slightly.

Hikari smiled. "Even in his condition, he's more worried about others." She thought. "She'll be fine. It could've been worse." She said as she sat down.

Bryon sighed in relief.

Her face turning serious, Hikari continued. "Bryon. You need to learn to control your temper."

"I know. I didn't mean to hurt her. I just got angry." Bryon replied, sadly as the memory of what he had done to Hitomi cam back to him.

"I know Bryon. But the injury you gave her stopped her from fighting at her best, and caused her to drop her guard due to the pain. That allowed one of the enemy to take advantage and cause her injury to worsen. Luckily Guy managed to defeat them and we were able to make it to you before coming right here." She paused, seeing the distraught look on Bryon's face. She saw how guilty he felt, and that what she had to say next was only going to make it worse. "The injury was bad enough, that if we hadn't made it back here as quickly as we did, she might not have made it."

Bryon looked at her in shock. "Y...You mean she could've died?" Bryon asked, hoping that wasn't what she meant. Unfortunately, it was.

"Yes. I'm afraid so Bryon." Hikari couldn't help but feel bad as she saw Bryon start to cry at the realization that he could've been the root cause of Hitomi's condition. Hikari quickly took Bryon's hand. "Listen, Bryon. You don't need to blame yourself. It was an accident. And accidents happen. So long as you learn to control your temper, this accident will never happen again. Guy and I don't blame you for what happened, and neither does Hitomi. You understand?"

Even though Bryon nodded, Hikari wasn't convinced. Taking a deep breath, Hikari changed the subject to something else that concerned her. "Bryon. Where did you learn to use the 'Eight Inner Gates'?" She asked.

Bryon just looked at her confused, tears still running down his face.

Seeing his confusion, Hikari realized that Guy in fact had NOT taught Bryon how to use the 'Eight Inner Gates'. Taking another deep breath, Hikari decided to elaborate. "Bryon. The Eight Inner Gates' is the technique you used to give your self that power boost against those Cloud Genin. It's a forbidden technique because, while it gives you an increase in speed and strength, it causes intense physical pain. The more gate you open, the more strength, and the more pain. You only opened three, and you felt how much pain you were in. Please, only use it if it's you absolute last resort. Ok?"

Bryon didn't respond right away, he was still trying to absorb everything. "What happens if you open all eight?" Bryon finally asked.

Hikari sighed yet again, before answering. "You would gain unimaginable strength and speed. It could rival or even surpass the Hokage's. But, the draw back is that you would die. Each gate has a name. Starting from the First Gate. They are The Gates of Opening, Rest, Life, Pain, Closing, Joy, Shock and The Gate of Death. Do you understand now? You can never use that technique, except as an absolute last resort. Understood?" Hikari asked firmly, after answering Bryon's question.

Bryon nodded in understanding. Finally understanding why he was suddenly hit all that intense pain.

Hikari smiled, seeing that he understood the consequences of using such a dangerous technique. "Good. Now, get some rest. Once you and Hitomi have recovered enough for travel, we'll head back to the Leaf Village. And I think we might end up arriving back in the village for your birthday. Sounds like a fun time ahead of your, doesn't it?" Hikari asked, in a pleasant tone holding up her fingers to count of each of the gates.

Bryon just nodded and smiled as he closed his eyes to get some rest. His last thought was of a dark purple-haired girl who had a unrelenting appetite for dango. "I hope Anko is safe." Was his final thought before he finally fell asleep.

-A week Later-

It was April 15, and Team Hikari was finally returning to the village. In fact, they were only a few minutes out. They could see the gates from where they were currently.

After Bryon and Hitomi had recovered, they went out one last time to take out another of the Hidden Cloud's ambush unit. Or at least they were supposed to take out one more. Another two appeared just after they took out the first. But this time, they had reinforcements at the ready. Jiraiya and Tsunade of the Sannin appeared and made quick work of them.

Bryon couldn't have been more amazed at what he saw of those two. Particular Tsunade. It actually scared him to think that Tsunade, or anyone for that matter, can cause a person's head to explode. Literally explode. Bryon was almost positive that he'd have nightmare's about the scene. He was just glad that Tsunade is on their side.

Hitomi however, almost seemed star struck when she saw the raw power that two of the Sannin possessed. She had briefly considered asking Tsunade to allow her to become her apprentice, but didn't. Even though she was studying Medical Ninjutsu, she knew what she wanted. She wanted to be like Tsunade, but in her own unique way. Tsunade was a Kunoichi, unrivaled in Medical jutsu, physical strength and almost unrivaled in Taijutsu. Hitomi however, wanted to master Medical Ninjutsu, but she still preferred Ninjutsu and Taijutsu. She wanted to learn Medical Ninjutsu, not only to help her comrades and friends but for after she retired as an active ninja. Mostly since Medical Ninjutsu was something she could use and stay in tuned with, even well into her elder years. Bryon thought she was weird for thinking so far ahead, but hey, at least she had something planned.

Anyway, just as they made their way inside the gate, Hitomi decided to asked Bryon something. "So, Bryon. You headed toward Ichiraku's after this? I'm sure my sister Ayame will make you a double extra special bowl of ramen." She said, looking at Bryon with a knowing smile.

Bryon looked at her curiously. "She promised me an extra special bowl when we got back. Why would she make me a 'double extra special bowl'?" Bryon asked.

"Isn't it obvious, Bryon?" Hikari asked, knowing where Hitomi was going with this. Bryon looked at her, still confused.

Guy wasn't fairing any better, as he didn't know what they were talking about.

"Awe, c'mon Bryon. Don't tell me that you forgot your own birthday." Said Hitomi, finally showing mercy to Bryon's confusion. She couldn't help but laugh as Bryon snapped his head in her direction, surprise written all over his face. Hikari wasn't able to hold back a few giggles either.

It took a moment before Bryon got over his surprise. And when he did, he slapped his palm against his forehead. "How did I forget my birthday was today! Ugh. I completely forgot." Bryon groaned. Hikari, Hitomi and Guy couldn't help but laugh out loud at this.

As they laughed, Bryon suddenly stopped in his tracks as he sense something. Or rather someone. It was someone who he hadn't seen in quite a while. The others took notice after walking a few paces ahead of him. Curious, they looked back in his direction. "Bryon? Are you ok?" Hikari asked, slightly worried about him. She's never seen him react this way.

Without responding, Bryon took off as fast as he could toward the Hokage Tower where he sensed the chakra.

-Council Chambers-

Inside the Council Chambers in the Hokage Tower sat the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, two of his advisors (who sat at his sides), the Clan Heads along a table to his right, and Councilman Mitarashi sat at the table to his left. In the four corners of the room there were members of the ANBU black-ops, one in each corner. There was also a Record Keeper, meant to Finally in the center of the room, sitting on their knees, was Anko Mitarashi. She shook relentlessly as she sat there with everybody's eyes on her.

"For the record, I'd like to state that Councilman Mitarashi is only here to listen to the his daughter's Hearing. And since Anko Mitarashi is still considered a ninja of this village, she will by tried by the Shinobi Council, including my self." Said the Third Hokage, taking a moment to ensure everyone in the room heard him. "Then let us begin."

"Chunin, Anko Mitarashi, You are here on the basis of being a traitor to the village. How do you plead?" The aged Hokage asked.

Scarred, Anko practically shouted her response. "I'M NOT GUILTY! I DON'T EVEN REMEMBER ANYTHING!"

"Perhaps. However there are numerous witnesses that have seen you leave the Village with Orochimaru, not to mention willingly. Furthermore, you were away for over two months. Although, you were discovered in the Land of Sea by members of our ANBU. There were no signs of Orochimaru having been there. And despite the interrogation you've gone through, it seems all memories of your recent time away from the village. The situation we find ourselves in right now, is that there is no evidence to either convict or otherwise." Said the Hokage.

After waiting a moment for his words to sink in, the aged Hokage was about to continue when the doors to the Council Chamber burst open and in ran Bryon making a bee-line right for Anko. Everyone turned to see Bryon running into the room, surprised evident on their faces. Out of a sense of duty, one of the ANBU went to restrain Bryon to stop him from going any further.

Knowing he was just a boy, the ANBU didn't bother to use full force or speed. Bryon had sensed the ANBU. "You're not gonna stop me! 'First Gate; Gate of Opening: Open!'" Bryon thought as he opened the 'Gate of Opening'.

The ANBU was surprised when as he reached for the boy, he suddenly vanished. He quickly realized that Bryon had simply ducked. Bryon quickly put all his weight on his hands and kicked both his feet toward the ANBU behind him. The ANBU had no difficulty in bringing both arms across his chest to absorb the blow. What nobody, especially the ANBU, expected was that Bryon's attack sent the ANBU into the air towards the ceiling.

Bryon then lifted one hand off the floor and in a burst of speed landed right next to Anko. The ANBU had quickly and easily recovered and landed on the floor. "Impressive! I never expected that. Even from him." The ANBU thought. He was about to pursue Bryon, but a signal from the Hokage told him to stand down. Giving the Hokage a nod, he went to close the door (being sure to lock it) before returning to his post inside the chambers.

Everyone in the room was surprised at Bryon's sudden entry into the Chambers. They were equally surprised when Bryon managed to dodge the ANBU, as well as his speed. "He's grown. But how did he get so fast?" Was the collective thoughts among the Shinobi Council.

"Bryon?" Anko asked, as she looked up at him.

Bryon looked at Anko and smiled. "Hey, *huff* Anko. Been *pant* a while."

"He's exhausted from that maneuver? What did he do?" A few of the Clan Heads thought. The Hokage however had an idea, although he wasn't for certain.

"What do you think you're doing here, boy!" Councilman Mitarashi yelled.

Ignoring the man completely, Bryon greeted the Hokage. "Lord Hokage." He said with a bow. "Sorry for interrupting, *pant* but I couldn't help *pant* it after I *huff* after I sensed Anko's *pant* chakra." Bryon stated as he stood straight and grinned sheepishly.

A few of the Shinobi Council smirked, Shikaku rolled his eyes, Tsume attempted not to laugh and the Hokage let out a small chuckle. The Hokage's advisor's and Councilman Mitarashi were the only ones not amused. In fact Councilman Mitarashi decided to make himself heard once again.

"Boy! I asked you a question! What do you think you're doing here?!" He yelled.

"It's alright. I was just about to mention that Bryon was the key witness to Anko's hearing." Said the Hokage.

"Hmm. What do you mean, Lord Hokage?" Shikaku asked.

"While it is true that numerous witnesses can testify that they have seen Anko leaving with Orochimaru. However, Bryon can testify that Anko was perhaps deceived by Orochimaru into leaving the village." The Hokage replied.

"I see. But then why didn't I see any trace of that memory within Anko?" Inoichi asked.

"Because Orochimaru tried using Anko to trick me into going with them. Anko came up to me and told me that we have a mission. I asked her where we were going, but she said that Orochimaru did not tell her. Even though it was a 'mission' from the Hokage. We also just got back from a mission not too long before that, and it was supposed to be 'urgent'. Orochimaru did not come close, he just stayed in the background and kept looking around like he was expecting something big to happen. I told Anko that, and I also told her that something was not right. Anko then thought about what I said. When she did leave, she looked like she did not want to go." Bryon explained.

"But she did go with him?" Shikaku asked.

Bryon got a bit upset, and responded with a bit of venom in his voice. "Only because he was her sensei! She never had a reason not to trust him! For all I knew back then I was wrong and there really was a mission! She did not know! What would you do?!" Bryon yelled, surprising the entirety of the Chamber with his logic.

Shibi Aburame was the first to recover and speak. "That is astounding logic for someone so young. You do have a point Bryon. The minimum requirement for a team of Shinobi is three, while the max is four. Of course circumstances can easily change. But even so, an 'urgent mission' would need to meet the same requirements. Even I may have had my doubts, but I would've likely gone with my sensei as well in that situation. I may not have thought differently about it until it was likely too late." Shibi's statement received several nods of agreement.

"Hmm. What Shibi says is true. Of course I myself should share some of the blame as to what happened. Only myself and a very select few of my ANBU suspected what Orochimaru was doing. I even kept it from the Shinobi Council." The Hokage said, taking a moment to think.

A few moments passed before anyone spoke. "Hmm. Given Bryon's testimony just now, I believe that Anko is in fact innocent." Said Hiruzen, pausing a moment before continuing. "Anko Mitarashi." He said, gaining her attention. "You are free to go. There is no hard evidence that suggest that you knew what Orochimaru was up to, or had anything to do with what he had done." Said Hiruzen, with a kind smile.

Anko and Bryon smiled, at the news.

Councilman Mitarashi then stood up, earning himself the other's attention. "Lord Hokage. As of this moment. I'm formally disowning my daughter, Anko Mitarashi." He stated, shocking everyone in the room.

The shock was easily written of everyone's faces, but none so more than Anko. She was still on her knees, staring at her father. Tears were overflowing in her eyes, and running down her cheeks. And despite being the most shocked about this, Anko was the first to speak. "Wh...why?" She choked.

Her father didn't look at her as he answered. "Your status at having been Orochimaru's apprentice is well know. He was a traitor, and while you have been proven innocent, others may not see it as such. And as a Councilor of this village, it would not look for me to have a daughter who has been affiliated with a traitor." Everyone's eyes continued to widen with every word he spoke. "As far as I'm concerned. I have no daughter." With that, Councilman Mitarashi left the Council Chambers before anyone could say anything. The man stumbled slightly as he felt killing intent being directed at him, But he ignored it, as he essentially doubled his pace.

Anko broke down and began openly sobbing. Bryon stopped radiating his killing intent towards the man, and joined Anko on her knees and held her close. Anko responded by latching onto Bryon like a lifeline. And when she did, she started to fully bawl her eyes out.

Bryon just held her tighter, and looked around the room. He didn't say anything, but they could see the unasked question in his eyes. Bryon knew that he was due to stay with one of the Clans for an undetermined amount of time. But he could see in their eyes that neither of them were really willing to trust Anko into their homes. Bryon couldn't help but be angered by this.

The Hokage was about to speak, but just before he could, Bryon quickly picked up Anko and placed her on his back. It was a little awkward for Bryon to have someone bigger than him on his back, but he didn't care. He just started leaving the Council Chambers at as brisk a pace as he could. All the while Anko continued to cry.

As Bryon walked away, everyone seemed even more dumbfounded. It was Tsume who first managed to speak. "Damn. That kid doesn't flinch when it comes to her, huh?"

The others in the room looked at her, curious about what she meant. Seeing the questioning gazes, Tsume elaborated. "I doubt the kid is aware of it, but it's obvious he's got a crush on her. On top of that, she's fought by his side more than any of us. So, he trusts her with his life. And judging by that look in his eye before he left, he's not too happy with us. I'm just glad that killing intent "

"Hmm. I admit, him having a crush on her is surprising. But Bryon isn't the only one who trusts her." Stated the Hokage, earning his own curious looks now. "It should be obvious, that I trust her as well. I wouldn't have declared her innocence if I didn't. As far as I'm concerned, she's a loyal Leaf Shinobi who was played by my former student. *Sigh* This meeting is adjourned. For now, leave Bryon be. I'm sure he'll be fine."

The Shinobi Council nodded and then, albeit reluctantly, left to go home.

-With Hikari-

Bryon was walking through the halls of the building with Anko on his back. He had just passed Hikari, Hitomi and Guy. But he didn't even acknowledged them as he stormed passed them.

They easily recognized Bryon as he went by, but only Hikari recognized who it was he had on his back. Even though the girl's face was obscured by her hair and Bryon's shoulder, Hikari recognized her particular hair style.

"Anko. She's back?" Hikari asked herself.

"Anko? Wasn't she with Orochimaru?" Guy asked.

"She was. But when and why did she come back? And why and where is Bryon taking her?" Hikari asked.

"I can explain." Said Hiashi, as he came up to them. Behind him was the Hokage as well as the rest of the council.

"Hiashi."

"It's alright. Let's go to Lord Hokage's office so you can give your mission debriefs, and then I can explain what Bryon with carrying Anko.

-With Bryon-

Bryon continued walking through the village with Anko on his back. It was dark out now, but he could see the curious glances toward him, and the occasional glare toward the girl on his back. "I guess they heard all about everything with Anko. Even her being back in the village." Bryon thought, as he just ignored them as he continued on his way unaware that Anko had seen some of the looks as well.

It was a short while later, Bryon was exhausted. Having just come back from a long month out in the field with almost non-stop fighting, and then to return and carry Anko what seemed like half way across the village. But now, now he finally reached his destination. "We're home, Anko." Bryon said, as he let go of her right leg and held it up to the gate. Channeling a bit of chakra into the gate, Bryon pushed the gate open.

"Where *sniff* where are we?" Anko asked, as she looked up.

Bryon picked up her leg before replying. "My parent's house. Or, I guess it's mine now."

*Gasp* "Lo...Lord 4th's house? Y...You're bringing me here? You trust enough to bring me here?"

"I trust you with my life Anko. You always had my back, now it's my turn to have your back. Besides you need a place to stay, so you can stay with me." Bryon replied as he closed the gate behind him before he continued on to the house.

Once inside Bryon took her to the master bedroom and set her down on the floor. He went to the blanket and shook off all the dust that was on it, when that was done he set to work on the pillows. "Come on. You're tired right? I just got back from the field, so I am really tired too." Bryon said as he smiled. He then pointed to the master bathroom. "The shower is in there, you can go first." Bryon said.

Anko went ahead into the bathroom after hesitating for a moment. As she showered, Bryon cleaned the room to the best of his knowledge and ability. He also found his mother's nightgown, as he was looking through the dresser drawer of his parent's. By the time he was done, Anko had come out of the shower.

"Thanks. I didn't think the shower would work." Said Anko, as she came out in only a towel.

"Haha. Yea, I wasn't too sure either. But, good to know it still works." Bryon replied, as he scratched the back of his head. "Well, I guess it's my turn." With that, Bryon walked into the bathroom to take his own shower.

Minutes later, Bryon came out of the shower in a clean pair of underwear he had stored in a scroll. He looked toward the bed and saw Anko lying beneath the blanket, crying again. He couldn't really blame her. He went up to the bed and got under the covers. He wrapped his arm around her, causing her to flinch at his touch. But she quickly realized who it was, and relaxed. "It will be ok, Anko. I promise. Just get some sleep. Ok?" Bryon said.

Anko just nodded, and relaxed further until she fell asleep. "Why does being around him always calm me down?" Was Anko's final thought before she finally succumbed to slumber, quickly followed by Bryon.

-The Next Morning-

Bryon woke up in an almost empty bed. The reason why, is because he was the only one in the bed. He knew he didn't go to sleep alone, so he quickly sensed for Anko's chakra. He sensed her to be in the back yard, so he headed out toward the back door. What he saw when he opened the door, shocked him to the core. He could see the slight glimmer of ninja wire. Usually not much to worry about, except this ninja wire was tied around Anko's neck.

Anko stood up on a tree branch, with tears running down her face. Before she tried anything, Bryon quickly went to the kitchen and grabbed a large knife. As he came back out he saw Anko falling from the branch. Before the ninja wire went taut, Bryon threw the knife, but not before he sharpened it with his chakra. Then just as the wire went taut, the knife cut through said wire. Anko felt the lack of resistance and turned herself upside down, so as to land on her head.

Bryon was horrified at what he was seeing. He knew that the landing would kill her instantly. He also knew that he had to stop her. What he didn't know, was why. Why was she doing this. At the moment it didn't matter since he knew that he had to stop her from killing herself.

'First Gate; Gate of Opening: Open!' Bryon yelled, in his mind as he ran in a burst of speed he rushed forward. Anko was about 6 inches from the ground when Bryon finally caught her. They tumbled a bit until the came to a stop.

They were both on their knees, but Bryon was the only one still moving. He quickly undid the ninja wire from around Anko's neck, before he placed his hands on her shoulders. "What the heck Anko! Why did you try to kill yourself?!" Bryon yelled.

Anko's tears just flowed a little harder, before she looked up and yelled back. "Why shouldn't I kill myself?! Huh?! I don't have anything left! Everyone is only going to turn their backs on me!"

"Bull crap! The Hokage believes in your innocence! That's why you're not in prison! And besides, I'll never turn my back on you!" Bryon yelled back.

"Yes you will! I saw the glares the villager threw at me! Those glares will be thrown at you soon enough! You're the 'Honorable Son' of Lord 4th Hokage! You have a reputation! You shouldn't be seen with scum li..."

*SMACK*

"..."

Anko was stunned. She didn't see it coming. Bryon, who had never once laid a physical hand on her, had just slapped her across her face. Even during sparring matches, Bryon had only ever used his 'Phantom Fist' against her. Because of that, he never actually physically hit her. Until now that is.

Anko slowly looked back at up at Bryon, and flinched when she saw him with a tearful glare directed right at her. "Don't you dare call yourself that! You're not scum! And I would never turn my back on a friend in need! I don't care about my reputation! I'd rather die then turn my back on a friend!" Bryon then pulled Anko into a hug.

Anko blushed slightly as she felt Bryon's lips touch her cheek as she was pulled into his hug.

"Please. *Sob* Don't ever think of yourself like that again. *Sob* I told you, didn't I. *Sob* I trust you with my life. So please. Trust me. Trust me like I trust you." Bryon cried, as he held onto Anko a little tighter.

Anko was shocked. She had no idea what she should do. A part of her was telling her to get up and run away, while another part, deep down, was telling her to just trust him. She felt very conflicted, but she decided to trust Bryon. She wrapped her arms around Bryon, and returned the hug.

They both cried in each others arms, neither one caring that they were still in their nightwear from last night.

Alright! Finally another chapter done. I'm sorry it took so long, but I finally got it. Anyway, I'm sorry that this chapter is shorter than usual, but there really wasn't much to go into this chapter. Anyway, one of my reviewers made a pretty valid point. This is the 17th chapter, yet my main character had been 6 years old (well just turned 7 in this chapter). So, next chapter will start with a time skip, as well as a brief explanation over what will happen between Bryon and Anko. No. No romance between them...Yet. Anyway, until next time. Thank you. Please read and review.