Naruto 1. Chapter 1

Little Girl Lost Chapter 1 - Recovery

* * *

><p>Hello Everyone! This is the sequel to <em>Honey, I Can Explain<em>! This part of the story details Kyoko's life between the ages of 4 and 13. This will probably not be as long as _Honey, I Can Explain_.

If you have not read _Honey, I can Explain, _I highly recommend and suggest that you go back and read the prequel to this sequel!

* * *

><p>Kyoko sat in the maternity ward's lobby her back erect with perfect posture. After the Nine Tails Attack she would go there every day and wait. Nurses would greet the little girl and ask if she needed anything and Kyoko would politely refuse stating that she was fine and that she'd continue to wait in silence. Kyoko would leave for a few hours during the day to eat but would return promptly before being shooed away for the evening routinely at 8:30pm. Every day she would repeat this patient cycle of sitting and waiting. A few times she would be greeted by Itachi and his mother but she always refused to leave with them. During her third week, she was greeted by the Third Hokage.<p>

"Good morning Lord Hokage," Kyoko said gently. She looked up to him with a passive calm face. A common expression he used to see on Minato's face. He could see all the pain, confusion and sadness that were still present in her eyes.

"May I join you?" he asked. Kyoko nodded. "Now, Kyoko-hime, what are you waiting for?" He placed his hand on her head. Kyoko's eyes shifted away from the Hokage searching for the answer he was looking for. She puckered her lip as she looked back up at him.

"Peace…" Kyoko answered.

"And?" Lord Hiruzen asked stroking the little girl's head. Kyoko's ears flattened against her head pleased with the nurturing strokes of his hand. He knew the other reason why she was here, she wanted to see the little boy that was her brother.

"I can't see him…" Kyoko replied. "…why?" Kyoko let out a little sigh.

"As of right now, it's for the best that you don't see him, there's too much at stake. Kyoko-hime, you can't spend your entire life waiting in a hospital." Kyoko nodded looking down at the ground ashamed. She wanted to see him more than anything in the world. He didn't know anything about Mommy and Daddy and he needed her as a sister to get through everything.

"Yes."

"So come Kyoko-hime," Hiruzen replied stretching a hand out to her. Kyoko sighed slightly placing her hands in her lap. She rubbed her hands together not knowing what to do next.

"I have much to tell you Lord Hokage," Kyoko answered quietly. She focused on the ground as she placed her hand in his. "Much that I did not tell Papa." Her eyes shifted to the Hokage. She wore a frown and a guilty look in her eyes.

"Alright Kyoko-hime," Hiruzen answered, "Whenever you're ready to tell me."

"How about tomorrow?" Kyoko asked looking up to the older man.

"Tomorrow is fine. Now I don't want to see you here tomorrow."

"Okay Lord Hokage, I won't come back tomorrow."

* * *

><p>"We are meeting today to figure out what to do about Miyana "Kyoko" Namikaze. As daughter of the Fourth Hokage and the eldest out of his two children, all of his property shall be bequeathed to her. Yet that isn't the problem," Hiruzen started.<p>

"She's already associated with Minato, his enemies are sure to seek her out,"Koharu answered.

"Agreed," Homura nodded.

"Yes, Kyoko-hime mustn't live alone. I suggest that ANBU watches her 24/7," Danzo bellowed. He could substitute Root after Hiruzen trusted him again. Once Root was taking care of the child, he could then control and manipulate the girl into doing his bidding.

"ANBU should keep a close eye on her but a young girl like her who's been damaged by bloodshed and violence needs someone to nurture her. She's a curious child who needs to be taught, not just watched," Hiruzen answered. "Now who do we have as candidates to keep Kyoko until she's 17?"

"Not Mikoto Uchiha. The Nine Tails was obviously being controlled. We need to keep a closer eye on the Uchiha Clan," Koharu answered.

"We don't know that for certain! In any case, we shouldn't bar Kyoko-hime from visiting with her son. She's a smart child she'd figure it out almost immediately," Hiruzen answered.

"A _smart_ child but a _child_ none the less!" Danzo answered.

"I spoke to Kyoko-hime yesterday privately and she was able to deduce that the Nine Tails was being controlled and it was not going on a rampage. She's in-tuned to the world more than that of the above average twelve year old genin. She's quite brilliant," Hiruzen answered. Koharu nodded in agreement. "What about Kakashi Hatake or any of the members of the Hokage Guard Platoon? Kyoko has a close relationship with all of them."

"What about Jiraiya? If she's with him, she'd be constantly moving and Jiraiya's movements are unpredictable so he'd be hard to track," Homura suggested. Having one child being raised by the Village was more than enough, and since Naruto was a baby, Homura projected that the Village funds would dwindle, the Nine Tails child would hemorrhage money.

"I could see if Kyoko-hime was older but she's still just a four year old, she needs to go to school," Hiruzen answered. "Also Jiraiya couldn't properly take care of Kyoko-hime with his constant traveling. He does fight some particularly difficult foes."

"Kakashi Hatake and the members of the Hokage Guard Platoon are all too young," Koharu answered. "Kakashi is 14 and most of the Hokage Guard Platoon is 17. They don't know anything about raising a child."

"Yet they know Kyoko on a more personal level than anyone else," Hiruzen answered. "Until we can agree on with whom the child should be housed with, she'll continue to live at the Hokage's mansion."

* * *

><p>Kyoko watched quietly from the shade of a tree as men moved out the belongings of Minato and Kushina out. Since she was not allowed to return to the hospital every morning, she had resorted to watching the men move her parent's things out for a few minutes every day but this was the first time she had watched the men continuously. With the Village slowly getting back on their feet, moving out the Fourth Hokage's possessions into storage was a distant priority. They had started moving their things out four days ago and where nowhere near being done. Kyoko's bottom lip quivered as she watched the men work. She scrunched the front of her dress with her hands as tears poured out of her eyes.<p>

"Daddy…Mommy," Kyoko muttered through her tears. She closed her eyes weeping to herself. She let out a loud cry as she tried to console herself. Minutes later she felt two small hands on her cheek rubbing tears out of her eyes. She opened her eyes to see Itachi in front of her. He had a worried frown on his face as he continued to rub Kyoko's cheeks and eyes.

"Miyana-chan," Itachi said gently. Kyoko's eyes grew large as she threw her arms around Itachi's shoulders. She pulled away from him with the brightest smile. "It's okay." Kyoko wiped tears out of her eyes quickly.

"Tachi-kun what are you doing here?" Kyoko asked in her cheeriest smile. He could see the deep pain that she was trying to cover up.

"I was worried about you Miyana-chan. I know you're going through a tough time," Itachi answered. "Miyana-chan, you don't have to put on a big smile right now, it's okay to cry."

"I'm okay," Kyoko chimed as tears continued to fall.

"No…you're not. You miss Lord Hokage and Lady Kushina," Itachi answered.

"Where's your Mommy?" Kyoko asked as Itachi sat her down in the grass.

"She's busy with Sasuke-kun. She allows me to leave the house by myself now," Itachi answered. He pulled Kyoko into a hug resting her head on his shoulder. "You're going to be okay. I'm going to be here to protect you."

"But," Kyoko muttered.

"I will always be there to protect you Miyana-chan, from this day on. I promise you."

* * *

><p>Kyoko walked the streets solemnly at Itachi's side. Itachi held her hand tightly. He rubbed her hand every now and then trying to get Kyoko to react. She was still dead on the inside which bothered him.<p>

"Miyana-chan," Itachi whispered into her ear.

"We're being followed by ANBU," Kyoko said quietly. Itachi shushed Kyoko. "We are."

"Let's not talk about that right now," Itachi answered. "Koko-hime, what do you want to do?"

"I want to go home," Kyoko muttered.

"Come over for dinner Koko-hime," Itachi urged. She needed to be around family and with hugs and kisses.

"I want to go home," Kyoko answered firmly. Itachi let out a little sigh nodding. He walked the little girl home.

"Be safe Koko-hime," Itachi said giving her a hug. Blushing softly Itachi gave Kyoko a little kiss on the cheek. His Dad would do that to his Mom to express his love for her when she was feeling worried or troubled. He pulled away with a little smile only seeing Kyoko staring ahead of her numbly. "Miyana-chan."

"You too Itachi-kun," Kyoko answered. "I know you have a far walk so be safe too Itachi-kun."

"Thank you," Itachi answered frowning. "I'll see you tomorrow okay Koko-hime?"

"Yes," Kyoko answered. Inside Kyoko went to her new room. It was fashioned in a similar style that her Mommy and Daddy had done but it was not the same. Kyoko laid down on her bed falling asleep almost instantly. She was woken up an hour later by a servant asking if she was hungry. Kyoko politely refused going back to sleep. The next day she was woken up by Itachi.

"It's time to get up Miyana-chan," Itachi said gently.

"Itachi-kun?" Kyoko asked.

"Yep, it's time to get up. Lord Hokage is allowing you to come home with me so my Mommy can give you a bath," Itachi answered.

"Itachi-kun…I'm too sad to take a bath," Kyoko sighed.

"Then I'll sit and wait," Itachi answered sitting on her bed quietly. "I'll wait." Kyoko let out a grumble lying back on her bed. After about ten minutes Kyoko noticed that Itachi was still waiting.

"Itachi-kun…go home," she whined.

"I won't go home," Itachi answered firmly. "I will wait."

"Itachi-kun…go home," she said a little louder this time.

"I won't go home until you're better. I don't like seeing you like this! I want you to feel better! I don't want you to be in pain!"

"Itachi-kun! GO! HOME!"

"TALK TO ME!" Itachi growled back.

"MY MOMMY AND DADDY ARE DEAD ITACHI-KUN! THEY'RE VERY DEAD! THEY'RE NOT COMING BACK!" Kyoko answered.

"I know Koko-hime," Itachi answered. "It hurts a lot to lose someone, especially two at the same time. I was with my parents during the Third Shinobi War. I saw many people die. Many people who shouldn't have died. Koko-hime, I know it hurts a lot. If you're really sad…please tell me so you can get better."

"Itachi-kun," Kyoko mumbled. Itachi stared at her solemnly. Kyoko bottom lip began to tremble, her ears fell against her head, and her eyes watered up as Itachi pulled Kyoko into another hug.

"There, there Miyana-chan," Itachi whispered into her ear. Outside a servant looked to the Third Hokage worriedly. The little girl hadn't eaten anything in about a day and a half and the girl's hair was getting back to her original feral appearance.

"She's okay, leave her to Mikoto Uchiha for the day," the Third Hokage answered walking away from the door.

* * *

><p>"Mom!" Itachi called out as he brought Kyoko into his home. He looked back to Kyoko seeing that although she was obviously still sad she was no longer numb. "It'll be okay Miyana-chan."<p>

"Itachi-kun, Sasuke-kun is sleeping," his mother reprimanded.

"I brought Koko-hime home," Itachi answered taking off his shoes. He reached down to take off Kyoko's only to find Kyoko had already done so. She smiled weakly at him before looking down with a frown. Itachi put her shoes aside before taking her inside.

"Hello Kyoko-hime," Mikoto said kneeling down in front of her. The woman held her arms out to Kyoko. Kyoko ran to the woman wrapping her arms around Mikoto's neck. Mikoto rubbed the little girl's back as Kyoko sobbed on her shoulder. Itachi frowned thinking that Kyoko was over all the tears. "Itachi…she's going to be okay." Itachi watched his mom pick her up and carry the little girl off. Itachi followed after his mother who had taken her to the master bedroom and shut the door. Anxiously Itachi waited outside wondering what was going on. He could hear his mother's gentle voice but he didn't hear Kyoko. Itachi let out a nervous whimper as he continued to wait.

"Itachi," Fugaku said sternly. Itachi looked up at his father anxiously. "You're a boy, stop acting like that." Itachi nodded relaxing his face and he stopped shifting from left to right but his insides were still swirling with anxiety. Kyoko was still in bad shape. Fugaku watched his son letting out a sigh offering his hand to his love struck son. "Itachi, come help me with your brother." Itachi obeyed being led away from Kyoko. About an hour later he found Kyoko staring out the window at their kitchen table.

"Koko-hime!" Itachi gasped running to her. She looked over revealing that her hair had been cut. She smiled slightly at him before returning her gaze to the window.

"I'm going to kill the people that did this," Kyoko said quietly. Itachi shuttered, he couldn't believe the words that came out of her mouth.

"What?"

"They're dangerous…if we leave them alone they'll kill all of us. I need to kill them before they harms anyone else," Kyoko replied looking back at Itachi. Her face was innocent and she didn't seem vengeful.

"Kyoko-hime," Itachi muttered.

"You understand right Itachi-kun?" Kyoko replied.

"Yes," Itachi said with a nod.

"Will you help me?" Kyoko asked. Itachi pursed his lips thinking of everything that she had said. She was making all sorts of assumptions…but if they were true then they were not going to fighting an easy foe. Kyoko observed Itachi's body language, he was hesitating, so she knew that he'd try to convince her to go against her new found beliefs. She stood up so she could face him. "Will you help me? We must stop this so your brother and my brother don't have to. So I ask again…will you help me?"

"Yes," Itachi hesitated, "but we're too little to do something right now."

"But we don't still little forever. Daddy gave Naruto-kun the Nine Tails for some reason…Daddy wouldn't do it for no reason. I see a bad future if we don't stop this," Kyoko answered.

"Kyoko-hime…what is that you can see?" Itachi asked.

"It's very dark…I can't tell what's going to happen but it won't be good for our brothers," Kyoko replied looking away from Itachi.

"Whatever it is…we'll stop it before it happens," Itachi replied. He offered her his hands. Walking to him she took hold of them firmly. They stared into each other's eyes with determination, pain and sadness, nothing will ever come between them and their siblings, nothing.

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-hime," the Third Hokage said gently. It was awfully early for the child and she was yawning left and right as he led her out of the Hokage's mansion.<p>

"Yes Lord Hokage?" Kyoko replied rubbing her eyes. He was holding on to her backpack, the same backpack that accompanied her on all of her long trips.

"Would you like to spend a little time traveling with Jiraiya?" he asked.

"Okay," Kyoko replied.

"Come with me then. You won't be gone long. Just for a few months," the Hokage replied. He opened the door to the outside world leading her into the still night. Kyoko looked up at the night sky wondering what she'd be doing with Jiraiya.

"I understand Daddy had nemenies…ememinies….enemies," Kyoko struggled. "It's better to be away for now."

"Yes," the Third Hokage replied leading her to Jiraiya. _Don't worry Minato I'll look after your little girl,_ Jiraiya thought. The Third Hokage passed Kyoko's hand off to Jiraiya's.

"Mount Myokubu would be a good place to hide her for a little while. But I'm worried that her natural sage ability may cause her to go whacky," Jiraiya answered picking up the girl. She was getting too large to be picked up and by the time he returned her she'd be out of the pick-up phase. She quietly clung on to him. "But she'll be okay with me. Isn't that right Kyoko-hime?"

"Yes," Kyoko replied placing her hands at her mouth. Some part of her was excited for the adventure but the other part of her was still confused and saddened over the death of her parents and the death of the many others who were lost that day.

"I'll see you in a little while princess," The Third Hokage replied rubbing Kyoko's head gently.

"Good bye Lord Hokage," Kyoko replied.

* * *

><p>"Shima-sama this is Kyoko-hime, Minato's adopted daughter," Jiraiya said quietly. Kyoko was asleep on his shoulder. He put her to bed covering her with a blanket. He took out her toys placing them next to her head.<p>

"What an adorable child," Shima replied looking at the little girl with a loving smile. "I always imagined Minato-chan with children."

"She's a Luponian. I'm sure you've heard of them," Jiraiya replied.

"Yes, they're a very mysterious bunch. They are very suspicious of anyone who is not their own kind," Shima replied. "I'm sorry about what happened to Minato-chan."

"It was an unfortunate tragedy," Jiraiya replied. "Yet I'm here to hide Kyoko-hime for a little while. She has his surname and I know someone will come after her. She's naturally adept at senjutsu, maybe you two can be of some help to her."

"We'll see what we can do but for now Jiraiya-chan you get some rest too," Shima suggested.

"Yeah," Jiraiya sighed watching Kyoko sleep. "And later we can start training Kyoko-hime in senjutsu." Shima nodded as Jiraiya left to find an area to relax and collect his thoughts.

* * *

><p>So this is the end of chapter 1 of the sequel of <em>Honey, I Can Explain<em>, I hope you enjoyed it, and I hope you stay tuned for the rest of this part of young Kyoko's life.


	2. Chapter 2

Little Girl Lost Chapter 2: Healing at Mount Myoboku

* * *

><p>…<em>Jiraiya-sensei taught me that there's more to flying than flapping one's wings…<em>

* * *

><p>"Gamabunta-sama," Kyoko called out walking up to the large being. Jiraiya had told her not to speak with him but she felt compelled to. There was something that she had to ask him.<p>

"So you're the little runt," Gamabunta replied looking at the little girl. Tiny and frail, it was amazing that Minato had father-figured such a little being.

"You and Papa fought together yes?" Kyoko asked.

"Yes," Gamabunta answered.

"And you and Rairai-sensei fought together yes?" Kyoko asked.

"Yes, get on with it!" the figure growled. The girl didn't even blink, she continued to stare up at the being calmly.

"If the time comes can we fight together?" Kyoko asked. Gamabunta laughed cruelly, she was certainly cute but no child was going to ride on his head especially a frail female one. "I'm serious." Kyoko stared up at the giant toad taking up a stance of defiance. _She certainly has the drive…heh, let's see if she has the commitment_, Gamabunta thought. He moved his front right leg towards her placing it directly next to her. Kyoko didn't budge continuing to stare confidently up at the being. Lifting his other leg he sandwiched Kyoko between his front legs.

"You're an interesting little runt," Gamabunta laughed. The little girl didn't mind staring death in the face. Most children would have ran away or wouldn't have approached. She had a calm demeanor fitting for a child raised by Minato.

"I want to gain your respect like Papa and Rairai-sensei did," Kyoko replied. She didn't even tremble or shake like most children.

"Big words for a little runt," Gamabunta sneered.

"Papa told me that there are people and in your case, beings, who are bigger and older and smarter than me but that's no excuse to give in and back down," Kyoko answered. "I want to gain your respect like Papa and Sensei." Gamabunta laughed cruelly again before leaving Kyoko without another word. _Maybe one day child, I see Minato in you_, Gamabunta sighed slightly dismayed, she wanted to be taken seriously like those who came before her. She wandered back to her new temporary home to find Jiraiya frantically searching for her. She called out to him excitedly, her energy levels peaking from the abundance of natural energy.

"Kyoko-hime, don't go off on your own like that," Jiraiya scolded.

"I wanted to talk to Gamabunta-sama," Kyoko replied looking off into the distance. "He wouldn't talk to me." Jiraiya sighed allowing himself to fall to the ground with relief. He closed his eyes letting a new sense of calm come over him. He had to make sure that Kyoko would remain safe for Minato. Yet her quick curious nature was going to be the death of him. She liked to run off and explore, examining every crack and every chip on the rocks and the rough nature of the bark on trees.

"Look, Kyoko-hime, you're gonna have to wait a little while for Gamabunta to start taking you seriously," Jiraiya answered. He opened one of his eyes casting a gaze at the girl. She frowned looking up into the sky.

"How long?" Kyoko asked gawking at the clouds. _I have to wait…everyone wants me to wait. But why do I have to wait?_ Kyoko thought.

"A few years, actually more than a few years, I'm not exactly sure how long," Jiraiya replied. Jiraiya noticed the girl's ears flicker through her sun drenched ribbons. She was honing in on a sound or she was just was mulling something over in her mind. Jiraiya noticed Kyoko had a particular pattern in which she flickered her ears when she stumped or confused. He had picked up on her strange habit when Kyoko used to sit on Minato's lap and listen to the adult conversations her father would have.

"But…" Kyoko mumbled confused. Jiraiya sat up with a slight grunt.

"It'll happen all in due time," Jiraiya answered. He motioned Kyoko closer opening his arms to her. "Don't worry Kyoko-hime everything will happen in time."

"Okay," Kyoko replied.

"Kyoko-chan," Shima called out. Kyoko jumped into Jiraiya's lap peering over his shoulder.

"Yes?" Kyoko asked.

"It's time for lunch child," Shima replied. Kyoko shivered, she hated creepy crawlies especially eating them. She remember the times when Daddy would conquer the mean spiders and the nasty bugs for her and Mommy. Kyoko didn't think that she would be eating them.

"Come on, it's only for a little while longer," Jiraiya answered. He kissed the side of her head. As she shivered again.

"I don't like creepy crawlies," Kyoko replied as she was picked up by Jiraiya.

"You wanna fly?" Jiraiya asked. Kyoko looked at him skeptically. She looked away before back at him perplexed. What did he mean by that? Only in the stories that her mother and father told her could humans fly.

"Humans can't fly Sensei," Kyoko replied coldly. Her voice seemed to transcend her age as she look past Jiraiya. _She's losing her innocence_, Jiraiya thought.

"We can fly in our dreams Kyoko-chan. Now close your eyes," Jiraiya answered. Kyoko huffed quietly closing her eyes. Yet Jiraiya was right, she was flying! She soared above the trees and through the mountains. Kyoko opened her eyes with a smile seeing the scenery go by at varying "altitudes". _I think this has been her first true smile since Minato and Kushina's deaths,_ Jiraiya thought tossing Kyoko into the air. After she had landed safely, Jiraiya allowed her to scamper ahead.

"Papa trained here," Kyoko said halting before entering Shima's home. Her eyes seemed to follow an imaginary figure around the land. She was transfixed on this figure her ears followed after it along with her eyes.

"Yes, he did, how did you know?"

"Because his spirit lingers…not spirit but chakra," Kyoko replied. _It's interesting, her body controls the scenery around her. It's like she's taking in and replacing the natural energy that's around her. She's a true master of senjutsu_, Jiraiya thought. His face soured…Kyoko had just turned five…and she already had a strong mastery over senjutsu…Jiraiya now at the age of 38 still couldn't master the practice. He had been studying it since his teens and here was this little girl beating him miserably to the finish line. Actually…Kyoko had crossed it when she was still just a zygote.

"Kyoko-hime, what do you want to do for your birthday?" Jiraiya asked.

"I don't know what you mean?"

"You turned five not too long ago. Do you want to do anything special for it?"

"Special? Like a gift?"

"Yes, like a gift," Jiraiya answered walking to her. He placed a hand on her back as he escorted her inside.

"New ribbons," Kyoko said touching her ears. "It's been a while since I've had new ribbons." The ones she had now were faded and the material was wearing thin. It was easy to tell she had wolf ears in the sunlight. She sat down at the table looking at the bowl of food that had been placed out for her. She shivered a third time, she didn't like this at all.

"What color?"

"NOT. PINK."

"But what color exactly?"

"Anything BUT. PINK."

"You're definitely not a girly girl, Kyoko-chan! Are you ready to do some training?" Shima asked.

"What type of training?" Kyoko asked. She hesitantly ate the food that was supplied to her. Jiraiya watched her mechanically shovel food into her mouth, a coping mechanism that she had developed.

"You already have an amazing control over using natural energy but you have surges that cause you to go out of control," Shima replied. "You shake with energy, I'm actually quite shocked that Minato-chan and his wife were able to keep up with you."

"Yes…If I don't start training then I'll hurt people…" Kyoko said dismayed.

"Don't look that way Kyoko-chan. That's why we're here to teach you," Shima answered. "Kyoko-chan you balance the three types of energies very well. Your body naturally keeps absorbing the energy and without it you'll die." Kyoko gulped looking away from Shima and Jiraiya. Her eyes widened staring at the wall, she didn't want to die.

"I'll be right here for you Kyoko-hime," Jiraiya answered rubbing her head.

"I don't want to die." Kyoko mumbled.

"You won't die. I won't let you die as long as I live," Jiraiya answered. "Now finish your food and meet me outside." Kyoko nodded finishing her food quickly so she didn't have taste or think about the food. _Kyoko-hime really only needs to calm herself, which will be hard for an energetic five year old_, Jiraiya thought as Kyoko met him outside. "Kyoko-chan, do you want to ride on my back?"

"Noooo," Kyoko said. "I like to walk with you!" Jiraiya chuckled standing up. "Companions and helpful people walk side by side!"

"Come on then," Jiraiya chuckled. "Let's get going. We're going to practice being still."

"Being still?"

"Being perfectly still," Jiraiya answered. "It's how I learned senjutsu."

"Sen-jut-su," Kyoko mumbled.

"It's how I learned how to control natural energy. I then I applied it to me fighting style," Jiraiya answered.

"Why can't you absorb it like me?" Kyoko asked. She took his hand in hers.

"Because I'm not a Luponian?"

"Why are we different?" Kyoko asked.

"I don't know why…but being different isn't bad Kyoko-hime,"

"I like it when you call me Kyoko-chan. I'm not a princess."

"You are a princess."

"I'm not a princess," Kyoko replied looking down at the ground.

"Yes you are!" Jiraiya said picking up Kyoko. He hugged her tightly. "You're the cutest little princess. So cute to hug and cuddle!" Kyoko whined slightly as Jiraiya snuggled her playfully.

"SENSEEEEIIIIII," Kyoko chirped. "I'm not a princess."

"Yes! You! Are!"

"I'm not a princess because I'm _Daddy's_ princess!" Kyoko said pushing his face away from hers. She looked down angrily only finding Jiraiya amused.

"You're Daddy's princess?"

"I'm Daddy's one and only princess!" Kyoko answered confidently.

"Which makes you a princess of Konoha," Jiraiya answered teasing Kyoko's head.

"Ooooohhh,"

"Why did you think everyone called you Kyoko-hime?"

"Because that's what Daddy said," Kyoko answered. "And everybody follows what Daddy says because he's the Hokage but I want _you_ to call my Kyoko-chan. Daddy and Mommy would call me Kyoko-chan, and I liked it that sometimes I was not a princess but just their Kyoko-chan."

"Okay we're here Kyoko-chan." Jiraiya said putting her on his back. Kyoko looked up seeing what looked like a spikey forest. "We're going to sit on those plates on those spikes."

"Why?" Kyoko asked wrapping her arms around his neck. _She's nervous,_

"Because this is the way I'm going to teach you how to calm yourself," Jiraiya told her. "Only when you're truly still will you be able to calm yourself." He picked up one of the plates jumping up to the top of one of the spikes. _I'll be careful Minato, don't worry_, Jiraiya thought as he steadied the two of them on top of the spike. Kyoko became nervous as the plate that they were sitting on trembled. "Shhhhhh…it's okay Kyoko-chan, the more you move the more the plate moves. You need to remain calm." Kyoko nodded slightly taking a deep breath. Although Kyoko wasn't able to calm herself to the point where the plate had stopped moving, she was able to calm herself enough to get the plate to quiver every now and then. After about thirty minutes they returned home. Each day Kyoko became better at calming herself adding on a few minutes of plate stability. One day as they walked home Kyoko broke down in tears.

"I miss Mommy and Daddy," Kyoko cried.

"I know sweetie, I miss them too," Jiraiya answered.

"Why did this happen?" Kyoko asked. "Why did they have to die?!" Jiraiya looked down at Kyoko seeing a mixture of anger, confusion and sadness. She was panting heavily as anger radiated through her body. "I…I DON'T UNDERSTAND! DADDY SAID HE'D ALWAYS BE THERE AND NOW…HE'S NOT?! WHY DIDN'T HE….WHY DIDN'T HE….why…his promise…he…he promise me…" Kyoko covered her face stopping in her tracks. Jiraiya stooped down hugging her tightly. He kissed the top of her head rubbing her back.

"Sometimes unexpected things happen…and when those unexpected things happen sometimes promises get broken," Jiraiya explained.

"BUT!" Kyoko cried. "DADDY IS STRONG! AND DADDY SAID THAT HE'D GROW OLD AND HE'D GET GRAY HAIR AND THAT HE'D HAVE GRANDBABIES! WHY DID DADDY GIVE ME THIS NECKLACE IF HE DIDN'T MEAN TO BE HERE?! DADDY AND MOMMY DID NOT DESERVE THIS! DADDY AND MOMMY DESERVE TO BE HERE WITH NARUTO-KUN!"

"Yes they do," Jiraiya sighed picking up the girl. "Yes they do sweetheart."

"Why did I get sick? If I didn't get sick this would not have happened. No no, this was not supposed to happen…" Kyoko mumbled to herself.

"Kyoko-hime, this is not your fault. Don't ever think this is your fault," Jiraiya whispered to her. _If anything…this is my fault. I'm sorry that I wasn't there Minato…I'll protect your children_, Jiraiya thought.

* * *

><p><em>Flashback<em>

_"You want me to be her godfather?" Jiraiya asked. "I can understand your son…but the girl is another thing." Kyoko was asleep on Minato's lap. She had tired herself out from a long day of romping around and exploring. He rubbed her back gently as her little body heaved up and down slowly. Minato always enjoyed holding on to his little girl when she was sleeping. She was outgrowing lap sitting and soon enough she'd be wearing makeup and heels._

_ "I hope you're joking Jiraiya-sensei! I wouldn't trust Kyoko-chan with anyone else but you! You're a good influence on her, she's always happier and more confident after spending the day with you." Minato looked at the clock, the minute hand was steady approaching 9, Kushina would be upset to see that Kyoko was still not in bed. He let out a slight sigh standing up with the little girl._

_ "I don't know if that's a good thing," Jiraiya chuckled standing up as well._

_ "She has the utmost respect for you…and I can't have you be the godfather for my unborn son and not for Kyoko-hime. We'd be honored."_

_ "I guess my hands are tied then. I'll see my little goddaughter later," Jiraiya answered heading for the door._

_End Flashback_

* * *

><p>Six months later<p>

* * *

><p>"Happy belated birthday Kyoko-chan!" Jiraiya chuckled placing a little gift box in front of her. Even though Lord Third Hokage had promised that she'd only be gone for two months, she was actually gone for half a year. They were on their way back to Konoha and Kyoko was downing food like no tomorrow. She never wanted to eat a bug again. Jiraiya would reprimand her for being un-ladylike but he understood her sentiment. Kyoko looked up from her food surprised. She shook her head quickly realizing her ravenous behavior. Quickly she wiped her mouth with a napkin, straightened her back and crossed her legs.<p>

"What's this?" Kyoko asked. It was wrapped in plain paper and topped with a bow.

"It's a present. You know what it is," Jiraiya chuckled.

"I do not," Kyoko replied.

"I didn't get you the box, open it," Jiraiya urged.

"But it's very pretty. Did you wrap it?" Kyoko asked touching the ribbons and the paper.

"Yes. Now open it." Kyoko pulled the ribbon away before taking extreme care to not rip the paper. She gasped as she opened the box seeing a new pair of black ribbons but there was something else with them, a book. "What is this?" Kyoko's finger ran over the title feeling the smooth characters. "_The Tale of the Utterly Gutsy Ninja…_This is your book…Daddy said he'd read it to me…"

"This is the book that I gave to Minato to read, I want you to have it."

"But…it's yours," Kyoko murmured.

"Yes but it means more to me if you have it," Jiraiya explained.

"I don't think I'm going to be able to read it for a couple of years but I will always treasure it," Kyoko answered pulling the book closer to her. "Sensei…when Naruto gets older…can you give this same book to Naruto-kun. I feel like it will connect us."

"I will." He smiled at Kyoko as she pulled the book even closer. She was smiling again, her path to healing was looking bright.


	3. Chapter 3

Little Girl Lost Chapter 3: Back in Konoha

* * *

><p>"So Kyoko-hime you'll be living with Kakashi for a few years okay?" Jiraiya said as they walked through the gates of Konoha. She was just over five and a half. "Just until you're old enough to fend for yourself."<p>

"Why?" Kyoko asked.

"Because your Daddy has a lot of enemies and we need to keep you as safe as possible," Jiraiya answered.

"Okay," Kyoko replied with a single nod. Jiraiya went through her ponytail to soothe her as they walked through the city. Kyoko sighed looking up at Minato's face in the stone monument. She gave him a single nod before smiling up at the stone feature.

"Hey you're doing okay Princess," Jiraiya cooed pulling her close.

"I know Jiraiya-sensei," Kyoko answered. He let out a small chuckle. She had finally graduated on to calling people by his or her full first name.

"Good. I've kept you reading and writing, you'll be prepared for the Academy Entrance Exams. Hell, you're probably already smarter than me with all the stuff your Daddy read to you," Jiraiya answered.

"Are you sure Jiraiya-sensei? I've been a way for so long…" Kyoko said biting her lip anxiously.

"Don't bite your lip, Kyoko-hime," Jiraiya answered. "You'll do fine my young lady."

"But," Kyoko muttered.

"Come on," Jiraiya answered stopping the little girl in her tracks. He placed his hands on her shoulders kneeling down to her level. "You're a smart young lady. You'll do much better at the Academy than I did. I'm honestly a little jealous on how fast you're able to understand and comprehend things. So continue to be a good girl and don't get so nervous." Jiraiya gave her a gentle smile as he stood back up.

"There's the little princess, not so little anymore," a voice said from above them. Kyoko gasped looking up to see Kakashi. "But still short, still petite, still a _little_ girl."

"Kakashi-san!" Kyoko called waving happily at him.

"Kakashi-san, don't you mean Kashi-san?" Kakashi asked. Kyoko let out a grumble glaring at him. She let out a sigh but put on a sweet smile for Kakashi.

"No, I mean Kakashi-san. We need to have a good relationship if I have to live with you Kakashi-san," Kyoko replied.

"Very true Princess," Kakashi answered joining them. "Hello Jiraiya-sensei." The boy lifted his hand putting it on Kyoko's head. Kyoko watched his every move, she knew what was going to come next. Her ears twitched as Kakashi began to move his hand forward towards her bangs. Swiftly Kyoko grabbed the hand pulling it away from her head.

"NOT this time Kakashi-san!" Kyoko answered confidently.

"You've learned a few things," Kakashi chuckled. "So have I." His other hand pounced on her head messing with her bangs and tied back hair. She let out a slight squeal, stamping her feet on the ground. Kyoko pushed his hand away with a huff. "We'll be the best of roommates don't you worry." Kyoko growled but let out a sigh.

* * *

><p>"Itachi, are you okay?" his mother asked. He had been acting strange all day. He flinched slowly turning his head to his mother. "Does your tummy feel funny?"<p>

"I'm okay…I'm gonna go for a walk," Itachi answered. Something was just different about the day. He didn't know what it was and it was only a feeling but he had to figure out what it was. He had been accepted into the Academy so he chalked it up to being nervous about his first day.

"Be back before dinner," his mother called out to him. Itachi quickly met up with Shisui who was returning home from doing a few errands.

"Are you sick?" Shisui asked. The boy looked extremely pale.

"No, I just have a strange feeling," Itachi replied. "I want to say…it's nothing. I'm just going to go for a walk."

"Alright…" Shisui answered. "Nervous about the academy?" Even for a six year old Itachi was always calm and collected. To see him like this was just strange. Itachi looked away from his friend. Itachi was shaking, whatever it wasn't going to be easy to get it out of him.

"Bye Shisui," Itachi replied. Shisui sighed, he'd get it out of Itachi eventually, as of right now Shisui had to go home before his mother punished him. Itachi walked past his clan's quarters and into Konoha. He wandered aimlessly feeling just as queasy and nauseous. What was it? Why was he feeling this way?

"Itachi-kun," Kyoko called out seeing the panicked boy ahead of her. Her cheeks immediately became flushed as they stared at each other. He was now six years old, and old enough to enter the academy. They both had growth spurts since the last time they saw each other. Kyoko was still nearing Itachi in height but he was always taller. Itachi took a few steps closer to her trying to figure out if she was real. Unlike the little girl he had seen well over a year ago who always wore her hair down, this little girl wore her hair in a high ponytail. _Heh, so this is the little boyfriend that Minato always talked about_, Jiraiya thought watching them from a distance. Kyoko chirped about the boy a few times but for the most part she wouldn't allow Jiraiya to get on the subject about this boy.

"Kyoko…hime?" he asked. His queasiness vanished as he ran towards her. Kyoko smiled opening her arms to him.

"Itachi-kun!" she said again latching her arms around him. He pulled her as close as humanely possible. He didn't want to let her go ever. If Kyoko hadn't attended the Fourth Hokage's funeral…he would have thought she died alongside of him. Kyoko began to cry tears of joy.

"Are you okay?" Itachi asked. _That's right…Itachi has that weird thing where he knows that something's wrong_, Kyoko thought as Itachi pulled away from her. He frowned worriedly.

"You're too young to be this worried Itachi-kun,"

"Are you alright?"

"I'll be okay," Kyoko answered. Her ears twitched as Jiraiya called her name. He was only here to drop her off and he needed to head back to "researching" and doing other "things". Kyoko had learned that "researching" was "peeping" from her father but she still wasn't sure what "peeping" was exactly. "I'll see you soon okay?"

"Yes," Itachi replied. He sandwiched her left hand between his with a flustered nod. Kyoko nodded as well. Itachi felt her hand slip out of his as she ran to Jiraiya.

* * *

><p>"Jiraiya-sensei," Kyoko said sitting across from him at his favorite restaurant.<p>

"You've been troubled this entire day. Even when you saw your little boyfriend," Jiraiya answered. He was really craving sake, but Kyoko was still in his care and Minato's ghost would haunt him if he drank.

"When I'm 10 years old, I must go seek Talasu and restore him to my seal. I'll need your help," Kyoko answered looking out the window.

"You don't need help from an old guy like me," Jiraiya chuckled.

"Yes I do!" Kyoko yelped. "I really need your help Jiraiya-sensei!" She stood up leaning across the table.

"Okay, since you asked so nicely and you're such a cutie," Jiraiya chuckled pulling on her cheek.

"Jiraiya-sensei," Kyoko grumbled. "This is very important!"

"I know but you're just so adorable," Jiraiya replied. "And you're a dork like Minato. You're adorkable."

"Jiraiya-sensei!" Kyoko whined.

"You read all the time, you're such a dork," Jiraiya teased. Kyoko sighed sitting down in her seat. She shook her head before smirking. She looked up at him devilishly.

"If I'm a dork for reading than you're a mega dork for writing!" Kyoko chuckled. Jiraiya opened his mouth trying to figure out what to say next. "Kyoko-chan 1, Jiraiya-sensei 0."

"I wish I could be as adorkable as you."

"Well, if you were a girl and 15 years younger you would be." The man choked on air trying to figure out what to say next. "Kyoko-chan 2, Jiraiya-sensei 0."

"You're smart as a whip," Jiraiya chuckled pulling on her cheeks. "Are you ready to start cooking for yourself?"

"But of course, I cooked a lot with Mama. Also you got drunk once and didn't cook so I had to cook for myself! Kyoko-chan 3, Jiraiya-sensei 0!" Kyoko answered. "Also I need to be a good cook for when I get married."

"Tooooo…"

"To?"

"You know…that little boyfriend of yours."

"Itachi-kun?"

"Yes, THAT little boyfriend." Kyoko blushed squealing nervously. "Kyoko-hime 3, Jiraiya 1. I'm catching up little one!"

"Yes, unfortunately," Kyoko sighed. "I'm worried about living with Kakashi-san."

"Why?"

"We don't always get along."

"Don't worry about that okay? You'll get along I promise you. Now I didn't meet your Daddy until he was ten but around this age, he already had an aspiration in life. Do you?" Kyoko leaned to the side trying to figure out what he meant.

"Aspiration?"

"A life goal." Her eyes lit up immediately. She nodded happily straightening her back with an excited twinkle in her eyes. Giggling Kyoko rocked her body to her own music. "Well what is it?"

"To be the fastest shinobi in the world!" Kyoko squeaked. "I mean I'm GOING to be the fastest shinobi in the world!" She smiled, pleased with her aspiration.

"To be the fastest shinobi in the world huh," Jiraiya said with a chuckle.

"Yes!" Kyoko chuckled. "I'm going to be the fastest shinobi in the world."

"Will you be the smartest?"

"No, that's Lord Third Hokage," Kyoko answered.

* * *

><p>"You should be sleeping," Kakashi soothed. Kyoko was sitting at his window staring out into the abyss.<p>

"Kakashi-san, I'm scared," Kyoko squeaked looking back at him.

"Why?" he asked sitting next to her.

"I don't want to go to school tomorrow."

"Why is that?"

"Because school kids are mean and my ribbons can come off!" Kyoko answered worriedly. "Mommy and Daddy don't want my ribbons to come off…" Kyoko froze looking down at her hands. "Mommy and Daddy _didn't_ want my ribbons to come off when I started the Academy."

"It's gonna be okay Princess," Kakashi soothed sitting next to the girl. He gave her a hug letting out a sigh. "And your ribbons won't come off. You just have to be careful. Now it's time for bed, so you can look your best tomorrow." Kyoko nodded going back to bed. The next morning Kyoko was up before Kakashi preparing breakfast.

"Good morning Kakashi-san," Kyoko replied gently.

"Did Jiraiya-sensei teach you how to cook?"

"No…he was lazy and we went out all the time. I don't like going out…so I taught myself how to cook." She had this calm air about her it was strange. The Kyoko he remembered was always shaking and always energetic. He remembered when Kyoko would get excited over seeing a dog or a fish at the supermarket. If he took this new Kyoko out, would she get just as excited?

"What did Jiraiya-sensei do to you?"

"What do you mean?"

"You had so much energy…he mellowed you out," Kakashi answered.

"Really?" Kyoko asked calmly.

"Really mellowed you out."

"Jiraiya-sensei taught me how to calm myself with senjutsu. That's why I always had so much energy," Kyoko answered. _With this new sense of calmness…she resembles Minato-sensei even more_, Kakashi thought imagining the man standing next to the girl. Kakashi soon enough dropped Kyoko off at the Academy, he didn't feel comfortable standing with the parents watching over their children so he watched from a far. Standing with the other children Kyoko eyed Itachi in one of the other lines. He was looking back at her. He gave her a single nod before focusing on the Third Hokage's words. After the ceremony Kyoko was placed in a class with Itachi, which made her relieved. The Third Hokage had already sat down with her teachers instructing them to call her "Kyoko Kin" rather than "Miyana Namikaze". One by one each child introduced themselves and which clan they belonged to, if they did. Kyoko nervously went to the front of the classroom, her mother always told her about how bad kids could be.

"My…My name is Princess Kyoko Kin," Kyoko chirped quietly. She heard the children whisper among themselves. Kyoko twitched her ears underneath her ribbons. The kids continued to whisper before Kyoko took her seat next to Itachi.

"I'm glad we're in the same class," Itachi whispered to her. Kyoko nodded with a slight smile.

"I'm going to enjoy seeing you everyday," Kyoko whispered.

"Me too," Itachi whispered with a nod. The day progressed without a tease or rebuff at her hair or skin. Kyoko wasn't sure why her mother always worried about her entering school. About two months later she finally figured out why.

"Stop!" a boy snapped as she walked by him with her books. Besides talking with Itachi, Kyoko didn't converse much with her classmates and spent most of her time enjoying her late father's past time of reading. Kyoko halted eyeing the boy over her shoulder. There were four others behind him. She looked between the boys faces, they were here to mess with her. _They're not from any clan that I know of…it'll be best to see what they can do first, _Kyoko thought. "Didn't your mom teach you better? You're supposed to acknowledge someone when they talk to you."

"I'm sorry," Kyoko replied, "Hello Rude Boy." The boy growled becoming flustered. His friends behind him shuttered, they were surprised at the girl's attitude.

"You don't have your sterling Shinobi to come and protect you today."

"Oh Kakashi-san is always watching, you should be more careful," Kyoko answered. She looked back down the hall wishing she had never stopped. She let out a sigh, _I know what Mommy would do…but Daddy what would you do?_

"I meant the Uchiha!"

"Itachi-kun is waiting for me…so good bye Rude Boy," Kyoko answered. She took a few steps forward before feeling a loch of her hair become taut. She twitched angrily, only the people she loved could touch her hair. Anger began to radiate through her body, the spirit of Kushina Uzumaki was bubbling above Minato's.

"Your hair is fluffy like a cloud's or maybe you're just a cotton tree. You're brown enough to be the roots and the branches. Grab some scissors it's harvesting time!" the boy laughed. Kyoko dropped her prized books balling her hands into fists. Her face was turning a crimson red.

"I…I…I…" Kyoko turned around thrusting her fist into the boy's face, "…I AM NOT A CLOUD!" She began to beat the little boy before turning to his friends. "DO YOU WANT SOME OF THIS?!" The boys whimpered before running away in fear. Kyoko got off the boy brushing off her dress and picking up her books. "Don't underestimate me, I'm a lady, I don't start fights but I can finish them!"

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-hime," The Third Hokage sighed. He knew that this would happen soon or later. Kushina had a strong spirit like his wife Biwako's and he knew that Kyoko would beat up a child sooner or later.<p>

"I'm sorry Lord Hokage," Kyoko muttered. She knew beating up kids was wrong but they just made her so mad at times.

"I know Minato spoke to you about not hitting other kids."

"I know but they just made me so mad! Especially when they say I'm too dark. I don't know what that means…how am I too dark? Mommy and Daddy and Itachi-kun and his family don't think I'm too dark! Am I too dark?"

"Of course not," the Third Hokage said standing up. He brushed the top of her head.

"Then why do they say it? I'm not a cloud and I'm not a cotton tree. I'm not a piece of chocolate and I'm definitely not coal. Why do the other kids say that?"

"Kids are sometimes mean to people who are different. In time they will warm up to you," the Third Hokage explained. _I don't even want to ask when…all adults say the same thing_, Kyoko thought with a sigh. "The future is uncertain. I wish I had a definite answer for you sweetheart."

"I know Lord Hokage," Kyoko answered.

"Now, I imagine Itachi's waiting for you outside. Go meet him with a smile." Kyoko nodded giving the man a small grin. She left the Hokage's Office, the area that she had shared many laughs, and smiles with her father. Walking down the quiet hall she let out a sullen sigh. She thought of all the good memories…and the few bad ones. She remembered when her Mom almost murdered her father because she had used her crafty skills to explore the Hokage's office without supervision. She remembered when Yan came to visit her and how happy it made her. Yet all of that was gone now…there was no more Mommy, there was no more Daddy and Yan was certainly not going to come visit her now. Outside Itachi was waiting for her with his best friend Shisui.

"Kyoko-hime!" Itachi called out. Kyoko smiled running to Itachi and his friend.

"I heard that you had some problems with some of the other kids," Shisui asked. Kyoko sighed nodding. "I think you handled the situation nicely." Kyoko blushed as the older boy pulled her into a playful hug. "You're going to become a great shinobi." Itachi wasn't as cheerful, since he wasn't watching her, he allowed someone to get close enough to hurt Kyoko.

"I'll stay closer to your side," Itachi bellowed. He wasn't doing a great job for her father and now he knew he had to train even harder and get even stronger.

"Itachi-kun!" Kyoko let out a playful sigh. Confidently Kyoko pointed at herself with a big smile, "Mommy always taught me that as a Lady I should not start fights but if one should happen that I should finish it with all I got!" Itachi smiled, Kyoko was always confident and for everything that she had been through she was always happy.

"Yeah, you can't protect her all the time Itachi," Shisui replied. "How will she become an excellent Shinobi if you're always there to stop her fights for her?"

"But," Itachi began.

"Come on Itachi," Shisui answered.

"Yeah I'm not a defenseless princess," Kyoko chuckled.

"Yes," Itachi answered.

"So don't make me one!" Kyoko laughed hugging Itachi. She rubbed her head against his cheek. Itachi flinched as the girl held on. Kyoko pulled him closer as she whispered, "I'm going to be right there to protect you too Itachi-kun."

Shisui let out a sigh, "Itachi, we should get going, dinner will be on the table soon." Itachi licked his lips anxiously. Kakashi wasn't in the village this week so Kyoko would be going home to an empty house.

"Kyoko-hime," Itachi began as they walked.

"Don't worry, I'll be alright."

"You can come home with us," Itachi replied.

"I don't want to impose," Kyoko answered. "I'll be fine, Kakashi-san left me some food and I know how to do basic things." Itachi nodded knowing that he wouldn't convince the girl. Itachi and Shisui dropped the girl off at her home. Kyoko waited about ten minutes making sure that the two boys were gone. In that time she went through her apartment making sure Kakashi wasn't lurking about. She went to her room carefully observing the window sill for alert seals. Sometimes the ANBU didn't like her opening her windows. Her eyes shifted from the window sill to the outside world, this was about the time that her ANBU guards switched shifts leaving a one minute grace period for her to leave without getting caught. Waiting a few seconds Kyoko opened her window jumping out and shutting it right behind her. She kept to the shadows jumping between buildings. Smiling, she finally got to her destination. She slipped in through a cracked window smelling baby supplies which made her happier. Quietly she crept about the apartment finding the bedroom. Her ears twitched hearing a baby on the other side. He was crying. Her ears fell, if Mommy and Daddy was here, they would not let him cry this way. Kyoko entered the room quickly going to the crib. She stuck her arm in between in the bars.

"Don't cry Naruto-kun!" Kyoko cooed rubbing the boy's belly. "Shhhh, it's all right your Onee-chan is here." Kyoko looked over her shoulder making sure his caretaker wasn't around. The little boy opened his eyes looking at the girl, he calmed down slightly but continued to cry. She pulled out a step stool that she hid underneath his crib so she could have easy access to the baby. Stepping up she put the side of the crib down before lifting the little boy out of his bed. "It's okay Naruto-kun." He continued to cry as she brought the little boy to his rocking chair. Carefully Kyoko rubbed his head rocking him in his chair. She sung him a couple of nursery songs and lullabies in her native language. Soon enough he quieted down looking up at his sister. _I want to sing to you in this language but…they don't want me here, they don't want me to know you…_she thought as she sung one more song for him. She sat with the baby for about another hour before returning him to his crib. He was beginning to fall back asleep and he always became fussy when that happened. "I'll be back soon Naruto-kun, I have to get back before…"

"ANBU notices that you're gone," a friendly elderly voice said from the doorway. Kyoko straightened her back with a gasp. "Don't worry I'm not here to get you in trouble." Kyoko's ears fell back against her head as she turned around slowly.

"Hello Lord Hokage," Kyoko answered. She hopped down from her stool kicking it underneath the baby's crib. She laced her fingers together looking down dismayed. The Hokage smiled at the girl offering her his hand. She walked to him feeling his hand against her head.

"Do you remember what I told you?" Kyoko nodded pursing her lips. She didn't like how compared to the "normal" children she had all these restrictions. She couldn't be out by herself without her wolf guards or ANBU, she couldn't leave her apartment at night, she couldn't see Naruto-kun, she couldn't sleep over at Itachi's for more than four nights, she felt like she couldn't do anything.

"Not to see Naruto-kun," Kyoko replied as he guided her out of the room.

"Yes, it's very important that you do not see him right now," he soothed. His hand moved from her head to her back. He guided her out of the apartment.

"But why?"

"I'll explain when you're older," the man sighed. He knew how much Kyoko hated to hear that. She smiled slightly as she looked down at the floor. She'd just have to wait.


	4. Chapter 4

Little Girl Lost Chapter 4: They Mean A Lot to Me

* * *

><p>"Look the cloud is making rain!" Kyoko's tormentor laughed. After four months of trying, he AND his friends finally subdued Kyoko. His friends held the little girl's arms. Laughing the young boys pushed her knees into the dirt. "I thought you were taught better than that." Kyoko let out a loud cry as he pulled at Kyoko's bangs. "You're not so tough." Kyoko's face scrunched as she began to cry, she finally knew why her mother warned her about other kids. Yet she wasn't crying about the situation or the boy that tortured her, she was crying about how her mother wasn't there to guide her through this. Although Kyoko idolized Minato, Kyoko came to realize that Kushina was better at coaching her through life events then her father. Kushina was better at being able to talk about real life interactions while Minato conceptualized the events and spoke to her in about said events in the abstract.<p>

"You're not tough either!" Kyoko snapped. "When you pick on people you just show how weak you are!" The boy gasped not knowing what to say or what to do. The princess was looking at him with a drive and determination that was scaring him and at the same time caused a festering anger in his gut. She was supposed to concede to him, finally tell him he was better at fighting than she was. The boy yanked on her hair angrily. Kyoko didn't flinch as she stared back fierce and determined.

"What do you know?! I've won, you've lost!" the boy said triumphantly.

"How pitiful," Itachi muttered landing a punch on the boy. Kyoko's tormentors were too focused on finally being able to subdue her that they didn't notice him approach. The boy fell to the ground as Itachi finished off the others. Itachi helped Kyoko up. "You should be ashamed of yourselves. Picking on other to feel good about yourselves. You guys are evil." Itachi's attention shifted to Kyoko, he frowned worriedly as he saw the girl continue to cry. "Are you alright Princess?" He wiped tears out of her eyes trying to see if that would make her stop, it didn't. Kyoko nodded but he had never seen her look so weak before. She was truly lost without her parents. They were constantly teaching her about how to defend herself and how to deal with unruly individuals. "Come on," Itachi soothed taking her by the hand. He took her to a quiet area so they could talk.

"They made fun of me because they're gone and I'm not a proper princess because…"

"Shhhhh. You know that's not right. You're a wonderful princess. They're just scared by you," Itachi gave her a hug. "You're going to okay. I'll be there to protect you." Kyoko wrapped her arms around Itachi's waist resting her head against his upper chest. Itachi felt her ears against his neck. They were flickering with her sobbing.

"Itachi I think I need to train more," Kyoko replied. Itachi nodded unable to find the words to express her. He agreed with her, yet physical training wasn't the only thing she needed. She needed someone to help her through these tough times.

"It's hard to fight against groups though. Shisui and I can help you practice. Also Miyana-hime, don't be afraid to ask for help you don't need to fight all this on your own." Kyoko nodded against him. "I'll do everything in my power to protect you Princess Miyana Namikaze don't you forget that."

* * *

><p>"There's the Ice Princess, still think you're too good to talk to everyone? I'm glad to see that you're not wearing those smelly ribbons today. I thought you didn't have ears," Megumi sneered as Kyoko walked by. Since Kyoko's hair was up in a ballet bun, she donned her human ears. The white haired girl didn't say anything but only clutched her books even tighter. "You're so cold Snow White. You should really 'speak' to your royal subjects." Itachi was going to join her today but his father had taken him away on a mission.<p>

"I think you should learn how to behave," Kyoko snapped. "You don't accuse people of things when you don't have any proof!" Megumi covered her mouth not knowing what to say next. _All I have to do is get to ballet and then they can't bother me_, Kyoko thought as she continued to walk. As soon as she turned the corner, Kyoko ran to the studio. She sighed slightly feeling warmth and comfort inside the studio. The outside voice, the mean jeers, the nagging cackles couldn't get in there. She made her way to the back of the studio, entering the practice room. Quietly the girl stretched in a dark corner.

"There's the young prodigy," her instructor gasped happily. Kyoko had become her most prized student. Besides being the Hokage's daughter and having the prestige to have private classes with one of the best ballet instructors, Instructor Anika wanted to make sure she only had the best and brightest students performing in her shows, so she only let the best and brightest have private lessons.

"Hello Anika-san," Kyoko answered.

"Why don't we work on your stretches, grand jete, pirouettes, and your arabesque today? You have those beautiful long legs. So let's warm-up with some plies at the barre," Kyoko nodded positioning herself at the barre. She exhaled letting everything around her fade away and the music and Instructor Anika's voice over-take her. The hour and a half passed by without her really noticing it. _Outside these doors are the voices I don't want to hear…but outside these doors is where I can go visit Naruto-kun,_ Kyoko thought standing right at the door.

"Good bye Anika-san," Kyoko said quietly.

"Off to your music lessons?"

"Yes Ma'am," Kyoko sighed.

"Are those kids still bothering you?" Anika asked.

"Yes, but it's a part of growing up."

"Such grown up thoughts for such a young lady. Lord Hokage and Lady Kushina taught you well," Anika replied. "But, what are these kids saying to you? You're not as chipper."

"Thank you," Kyoko replied. "I will see you tomorrow for class. Thank you so much for teaching me in your free time." Kyoko turned around and bowed to her teacher. She left the studio briskly walking to her next appointment. Her legs ached but she didn't want her tormentors to catch up with her. She burst through the doors of the music studio letting out a deep sigh. She saw out of the corner of her eye, her most hated instrument, the harp. _I still don't like the harp_, Kyoko thought staring at the dreadful thing. Her eye twitched slightly staring at the curved smooth wood and taut strings. She hated how it seemed to grow in size as she grew. Yet she continued to play the vile instrument to honor her mother who loved hearing the plucking strings.

"Ah Kyoko-hime you're early!" the elderly Akiyo cooed.

"Oh sorry…" Kyoko muttered blushing.

"It's not a problem. Do you want to take a shower? You're drenched in sweat. Anika-san must be working you hard," Akiyo soothed. Akiyo lived above her music studio, it was simpler for her especially in her old age.

"Yes, she is."

"Go take a shower sweet child. Your more than 20 minutes early, and I know you have a change of clothes in that bag." Kyoko nodded knowing that this was a fight she wouldn't win. She was showered and dressed fifteen minutes later in her "Shinobi" clothes. Kakashi told her that she was getting a special training "treat" today. Although she was getting along with Kakashi, he was still his cocky teasing self. She shook the thoughts of Kakashi away as she came back to Akiyo in the main room. There were always two parts to Kyoko's harp lessons. Part one was informing Akiyo of her studies and her grades and the second part was her practice.

"Have you thought about going back to playing piano?" Akiyo asked as Kyoko warmed up with some scales. Kyoko's hands flinched pulling on the harp strings as well as her own heart strings. She loved playing the piano…she loved playing for her mother and father but the instrument she loved brought back too many bittersweet memories. Her fingers stayed interwoven between the strings but she stayed quiet. "Sweet child…are you there?...Kyoko-hime." Kyoko smiled gently at the old woman.

"Not now…maybe soon, I'm really trying to get better at ballet before I go back to piano. I was really good at piano...but just not right now," Kyoko replied cryptically. Akiyo gently went through Kyoko's hair.

"I understand," Akiyo replied. After about an hour Kyoko finished with her lesson. She hesitated outside wondering what Kakashi had in store for her.

"Hey Princess," a familiar jovial voice called to her. She turned around to see Genma behind her. Excited Kyoko ran to him hugging his midsection. "Kakashi…that liar, he told me that you were not as excitable and energetic as you used to be."

"I am calmer," Kyoko replied as she released the man. There was no excited wiggling or shaking, just a calm air. Playfully Genma pushed the little girl's head from side to side.

"How can I be sure that you are the Princess?" Genma asked.

"How can I be sure that you're Genma-san?" Kyoko asked back. Her eyes narrowed suspiciously yet in a playful manner.

"You're definitely Kyoko-hime," Genma chuckled going through her hair. "You're getting so tall."

"But that's what happens when you grow up?" Kyoko replied. "Everyone says that, that I'm getting so tall."

"You are! You were so tiny and now you're growing tall like a flower," Genma chuckled. He had heard about how the children would compare her skin color to that of a tree, so using growing tall as a tree probably wasn't the best comparison.

"Flowers don't grow tall Genma-san…trees do…" Kyoko shook her head, crossed her arms rolling her head to the right.

"Yeah, but flowers are pretty," Genma replied. "And look." He pointed at the Yamanaka Flower Shop. "See there are a lot of tall flowers over there."

"Yes," Kyoko answered. She raised an eyebrow. She uncrossed her arms letting them sink back down to her sides.

"Some trees will never grow very tall, some will be as small as shrubs and some will grow tall like oak trees. You're a lucky one," Genma replied. Kyoko shifted her eyes trying to understand what he meant.

"I'm not exactly sure what you mean," Kyoko replied.

"You'll understand one day," Genma answered. His eyes shifted upwards as he ushered her along. _So there's two ANBU that watch her constantly. Lord Third Hokage is really trying to keep her safe,_ Genma thought. As apart of the Hokage Guard Platoon he had been trained to look for anything that could harm the Hokage and in this case his daughter.

* * *

><p><em>Flashback<em>

_"So you're going to be watching the Princess," Genma said quietly._

_ "Yeah, I'm assuming Lord Third Hokage spoke to you and Raido."_

_ "Yeah, but I think she's better off with you. Our lives would be mundane if we lived with her," Genma laughed. He quickly got serious. "Although is this really needed. She's being watched by ANBU."_

_ Kakashi sighed, "I thought that too but if you really think about it…it's understandable. Minato-sensei had a lot of enemies and even though the Princess wasn't his adopted daughter at the time of our travels she immediately became associated with him. The likelihood of her being kidnapped or killed is rather high. Also as Kyoko ages and becomes a woman, I sure some of Minato-sensei's enemies would be delighted to try and have their way with her. So all the extra security is needed. Also because she's so 'special'…we can't leave her on her own."_

_ "You didn't have to be so blunt about it,"_

_ "You asked."_

_ Genma sighed, "yeah…"_

_End Flashback_

* * *

><p>"They're always following me…" Kyoko said quietly, "More than when Papa was here." Genma nodded looking down at her. <em>Well she's more adept at sensing than I thought she'd be. Lord Minato had a very hard time trying to teach her how to 'actively' sense humans since she could 'passively' sense her friends on the other side<em>, Genma thought. He watched Kyoko's eyes shift up towards him. "Where are we going?"

"A special training exercise calllleeeddd…" he let a long pause pass, "lunch." Kyoko's eyes lit up excitedly in a moment notice she wriggled excitedly.

"That sounds like so much fun~" she sung. She let out a squeal clapping her hands excitely. Kyoko blushed stopping her old childish behavior. "That would be quite lovely." Koharu had placed the girl in etiquette classes to make her more becoming of a princess.

"Hey you don't have to act like a princess in front of me. Be your normal hyper-active self," Genma answered. "Don't let Koharu-sama suck the life out of you."

"But I must be calm," Kyoko replied. "A calm mind and soul is what wins the battle."

"You're so much like Lord Fourth Hokage."

"But, I'm not a boy," Kyoko answered innocently.

"You're going to make a great diplomat or a great Hokage," Genma answered.

"But I don't want to be Hokage. I want to be the faster Shinobi in the WORLD!" Kyoko answered excitedly. Kyoko blushed again noting her behavior was ill-fitting of her 'status.'

"You sure have his drive," Genma laughed.

"Hey, I'm excited," Kyoko whined. "And why does everyone…!"

"You're such an adorable girl," Genma laughed going through her hair. "Stop being so adorable!" Kyoko let out a chirp as he continued to mess with her hair.

"Genma-san! You're stooping to Kakashi-san's level!" Kyoko groaned. She didn't know what men liked about touching her hair but they were always stroking it, teasing it, messing with it, and Kyoko **hated** it.

"Yeah I guess I am…I shouldn't do something so pitiful,"

"Exactly!" Kyoko chuckled excitedly. They had reached the restaurant and were soon seated.

"So how's the academy going?"

"Um…well," Kyoko answered looking away. "They think I'm dark and not a princess…and that's not true." Kyoko kicked her feet under the table anxiously.

"That's not very nice," Genma sighed.

"No…" Kyoko replied looking out the window. "No it's not. What should I do Genma-san?"

"What do you mean?" Genma asked.

"Should I continue to beat them up?" Kyoko asked. She still couldn't look at him, she felt ashamed of her behavior but at the same time that's what Kushina told her to do, beat anyone up who tried to mess with her.

"Do whatever it takes for them to stop bothering you. Just don't send them to the morgue or to the hospital," Genma chuckled reaching across the table poking the girl in the nose. She flinched tossing her hair to and fro. Kyoko blushed sitting back in her chair. She stopped kicking her feet as she tried to figure out what to say or do next.

"Don't poke my nose."

"But Princess, you have a magnet in your nose. My finger is just attracted to it," Genma replied trying to resist poking her again. Playfully he gave her a slight beep on the nose hearing her let out a small nasal huff. _Lord Minato, you'd be happy to see her now…_Genma thought smiling at Kyoko. "You are such a sweetie."

"You've said that so many times. Are you going somewhere?" Kyoko asked. Genma tensed slightly. Kyoko kicked her feet at the table looking outside the window. "It's okay…Kakashi-san is gone all the time. I'm used to people leaving…"

"Kyoko-hime,"

"I only say what's true." _Maybe she shouldn't live with Kakashi, she's becoming blunt like him,_ Genma sighed.

"I won't die. Don't you worry. I'll be back in a couple of days. Raido's here if you need help. It's a B rank mission so it's not that bad. Be a good girl until I get back." Kyoko nodded.

"You'll come back and we'll do this special training again right?" Kyoko asked with a bittersweet smile.

"Yes, only because YOU'RE my favorite princess," Genma replied.

"That's because I'm your ONLY princess!" Kyoko giggled. Genma laughed as their food was brought out to them.

"Kyoko-hime, there's a place that sells really good peanut butter cookies. Why don't I bring some back for you." Genma watched excitement fill her eyes. Her hands quivered as she looked up at him.

"Yes, yes," Kyoko replied trying to remain calm but those cookies were her absolute favorite. When Kushina wasn't in the home, sometimes Minato would make her a small batch and then miserably try to hide the evidence. Minato would try to find a way to appease his wife but he'd always be reprimanded for it. About 45 minutes later she bid Genma goodbye letting out a gentle sigh. _Please come back Genma-san_, Kyoko thought watching the boy become lost in the crowd.

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-hime," the Third Hokage said gently. "Come here." Kyoko shifted from foot to foot, she was getting in a lot of fights lately. Her lips puckered she didn't want to reprimanded again.<p>

"They started it…"

The Hokage laughed, "I'm not going to talk to you about that. I have a gift for you."

"A gift?" Kyoko's ears popped up with curiosity. They moved forward in an alert position.

"Yes, remember that photo-shoot that you had a little more than a year ago?"

* * *

><p><em>Flashback<em>

_ "I'm excited Kakashi-san!" Kyoko chimed as he escorted her through the streets. __**At least she stopped wearing dresses as much**__, Kakashi thought walking with his hands in his pocket. She was wearing a nice pair of forest green overalls, a beige button down shirt with a red bow at her neck. Her hair ribbons matched her overalls._

_ "Why are you so excited?" Kakashi asked amused by her behavior. She was skipping through the street, merrier than she's been in the past few months._

_ "Kakashi-san!" Kyoko giggled. "I GET TO HAVE MY PICTURE TAKEN!" __**She really enjoyed pictures when she was four…I'm a little shocked to see that she still likes them now**__, Kakashi mused as the girl skipped, hopped and jumped back to his side. He shushed her so she wouldn't bring too much attention to herself._

_ "Don't you think it would've been a little nicer if you wore a dress instead?" Kakashi asked._

_ "What's wrong with this?"_

_ "Nothing, I just know how…"_

_ "I wanted to wear this."_

_ "Princess," Kakashi cooed._

_ "Yes?"_

_ "You're acting like a child," Kakashi teased. Kyoko's eyes narrowed. Kakashi wanted to laugh, Minato's eyes would narrow when things became serious, yet Kyoko's narrowed when someone said something that she did not like._

_ "You're acting like a jerk."_

_ "Don't be __**unkind**__ princess."_

_ "Boohoo," Kyoko said sarcastically. She smiled gently looking back at Kakashi, she had learned that these sarcastic spats meant he cared. Kyoko was just beginning to understand him._

_ "We're here," Kakashi murmured. __**There's that smell…is it…**__Kyoko thought as Kakashi held the door open to her. Kyoko ran in following this intriguing scent. "Kyoko-hime, don't run." She ignored Kakashi running through the studio. She heard a baby gurgling. __**Naruto-kun!**__ Kyoko thought as she got to the back room. Kyoko let out a gasp seeing the baby in the Third Hokage's arms. She trembled excitedly as the baby continued to make noise. She bowed to the Hokage trying to control herself._

_ "Rise Kyoko-hime. I know you've been excited to see this little guy."_

_ "How old is he?" Kyoko asked as she stood up._

_ "He's 9 months now," Lord Hokage answered going through the little boy's hair. Kyoko giggled happily. "I know you don't get to spend a lot of time with your brother so I wanted to memorialize you two in pictures."_

_ "Alright," Kyoko answered. She quivered excitedly as the boy was handed to her. "Hi Naruto-kun." The boy stared at her letting out a slight shriek. His face became distorted as he stared at this unfamiliar face. Kyoko smiled at the baby singing a soft song to him. Naruto's look of panic subsided as he listened to her voice. He laid his head on her shoulder touched by her voice._

_ "Now princess," Lord Hokage soothed ushering her to a chair. "We can't let him be out for too long."_

_ "Yes Lord Hokage." Kyoko sat down in the chair sitting the little boy down on her lap. He was squirming in her arms. The photographer came to the girl adjusting her hair and her posture. Naruto followed a few locks of his sister's with his head as it dangled and jingled about. Since Kyoko was focusing on the directions given to her by the photographer she didn't notice that Naruto had stuffed one a few ringlets of hair in his mouth. He then grabbed on to another lock of hair. Kyoko let out a small yelp as the flash from the camera went off. Soon enough the photographer was back to primping and priming the children and just as he ran off to the camera, Naruto started to cry. He didn't like the bright lights that were in face. Gently Kyoko began to bounce the baby and the subsequent picture was less than perfect._

_ "He's a fussy one," the photographer grumbled._

"_It's okay," Kyoko soothed. Kyoko felt a slight tingle in her spine as she offered him her hair again. He took it quickly but his little arm yanked it taut as he continue to cry. Kyoko let out a small squeak her face grimacing. This was not how she had planned the photo shoot. Kyoko jumped out of the chair as the boy continued to pull down on her hair. "Naruto-kun, it's okay!" She was able to get her hair away from him letting out a sigh. She put the boy on her shoulder gently rocking him. Minutes later he was calmer but his face was a bright red. It took about ten minutes for his face to calm. Once again she was sat down on the chair, primped and primed. The photos were taken quickly to avoid any other mishaps._

_End Flashback_

* * *

><p>"Yes, I remember," Kyoko replied.<p>

"Here," the Hokage started, "It's the photos from that day." He handed her a set of framed pictures of her and Naruto. Kyoko smiled warmly, her hands running over each picture.

"Thank you Lord Hokage," Kyoko answered pulling the pictures close to her. "These really mean a lot to me."

"Now why don't you go home and put them up?" the Third Hokage suggested.

"Yes!" Kyoko gasped excitedly. She hugged the Hokage happily. She raced out the door to hang up her new pictures.


	5. Chapter 5

Little Girl Lost Chapter 5

* * *

><p>"Hey Kurenai," Kakashi began as they sat down for lunch. She was puzzled why Kakashi had invited her out. He had avoided her, Gai and Asuma like the plague.<p>

"Yes?" she purred.

"You're a girl."

"The find of a century," she answered sarcastically. She rolled her eyes but smiled. Kurenai was worried that ANBU was making him a cruel heartless person. She continue to smile knowing that the Kakashi she had grown up with was still in there, somewhere.

"Could you take Kyoko-hime under your wing? She needs a little female guidance. She's becoming a boy than a tomboy in my opinion." Kakashi watched Kurenai's smile fade into a puzzled pout. Kurenai had never seen the girl, most people in the village had heard about the "mystical"-possible-highly improbable daughter of the Fourth Hokage or ward depending upon who you spoke to.

"What about Mikoto Uchiha? You said the girl was good friends with Mikoto's son, what was his name…Itachi?"

"Yes, but I think she needs more than one female role model. Also she's quite intelligent…actually…she's, she's quite brilliant, I think she'd do better learning genjutsu from you." Kakashi saw that his friend was still looking extremely puzzled.

"Okay?" Kurenai began, "Well I've never met the little lady, when do I meet her? Isn't she seven now? She vaguely remembered Gai talking about a cute four year old, three years ago."

"Yes, well almost seven. She graduated from the academy a little while ago. She and her friend Itachi haven't really been assigned to a team since they didn't graduate with a third person. They're randomly assigned to teams with older Genin or a Jonin is assigned to the two of them."

"Why?"

"I don't know, she's a brilliant young lady. She graduated second to her friend Itachi, and it was a close second only after a year."

"Do you take her on missions?"

"I'm not sure if I can tell you that."

"Kakashi," Kurenai sighed.

"Sometimes?"

"Well, when do I get to meet her?"

"She'll be back from her mission tomorrow. I want you to meet her at the gate tomorrow. I'm actually leaving for a mission tonight. I'll be back in a few days. Just check up on her every so often." He stood up from his chair getting ready to leave.

"Wait! Are you dumping her on me?!"

"No, she lives on her own now. She's fairly capable of taking care of herself. She cooks and cleans, don't worry about that. Just ask her what she wants to learn about genjutsu. She's very intrigued by it. She's very polite, but also politely vocal if you get on her bad side. Don't touch her ribbons, she doesn't really like that. She gets quiet when she's upset or disturbed so you may have to do a little poking and prodding to get her to talk. She's very sweet, you'll get along with her. She likes to sing and dance. She's a pretty hyperactive child if she gets excited," Kakashi explained. _He really cares for her…why won't you tell me you're worried_, Kurenai thought frowning at her friend. He left quickly so Kurenai wouldn't be able to question him. The next day Kurenai met the girl just inside the Village Gate. The older teen was a little shocked to see Kyoko walk right up to her.

"You must be Kurenai-san," Kyoko said with a bow. "It is a pleasure to meet you."

"Yes, I'm glad to meet you too Kyoko-hime," Kurenai answered. The girl looked down at the ground. "Kakashi, told me about you."

"Kakashi-san left didn't he?" Kyoko asked quietly. Kurenai frowned, _the poor thing…she's really attached to Kakashi…_

"Yes he did, but you have me and all your friends," Kurenai answered smiling down at Kyoko. The older teen placed her hands on Kyoko's shoulders. Kyoko still refused to look up at her. Kurenai felt the girl move uneasily.

"I hate to be rude, but I don't know you…" Kyoko muttered.

"Yes, but that doesn't mean we can't become friends. Come on, why don't we eat a nice lunch and then work on something?" Kurenai suggested smiling.

"I would like to go home and cook, if that's an option please," Kyoko replied.

"Of course," Kurenai soothed.

"Where should I meet you?" Kurenai frowned, _this is what Kakashi must have been talking about._

"What's wrong?" Kurenai asked.

"Nothing, my team eats out a lot when we go on missions. I just want to finally cook for myself."

"You know…Kakashi only speaks positively of you."

"He does?!" Kyoko gasped. She looked up at Kurenai with wide eyes.

"Yes, he's said that you were a very brilliant young lady, and how polite you are, and that you're such a sweetheart." Kyoko blushed, her face turning a bright crimson red.

"Kakashi-san wouldn't say that," Kyoko muttered.

"Oh yes he would. He may not say it to you but he's very proud of you," Kurenai replied. The older teen bent over with a smile. "AND he was very worried about your wellbeing." Kyoko smiled fondly.

"Would you like to come to my house?" Kyoko asked.

"I would like that," Kurenai answered. Kyoko immediately threw her arms around Kurenai. _She is very affectionate_, Kurenai thought rubbing the back of Kyoko's head gently, _it just pains me that she looking for love_. "Come on, let's get going." Kyoko took Kurenai to the little place she called home. It wasn't much, and Kyoko was waiting for the perfect time to ask Lord Hiruzen if she could get her parent's things from storage and move back into the place that she knew to be home. She still had keys to the little slice of the past, and the girl took particular care to keep all the fixtures working and the space clean. Sometimes she would have to scare off villagers who wanted to use the house for crime, drugs and other lewd activities. It was her home and she wouldn't allow anyone to desecrate it. Kyoko was relieved to see that Kakashi had left her some food before he left, normally she would just eat any dry food good she could find. If she was truly ravenous she would go out to eat so her wolf instincts wouldn't cause her to hunt.

"Kurenai-san," Kyoko began as she got out her step stool so she could use the stove to boil some water for tea.

"Yes?" Kurenai asked.

"What's it like?" Kyoko asked filling her tea kettle with water. She soon enough placed the kettle on her stove. With a quick flick of her wrist, the burner was lit.

"What's that?" Kurenai asked. Kurenai watched the little girl move to and fro.

"What's it like to be friends with Kakashi-san? Is he always mean?" Kyoko asked.

"He's just sarcastic. He can be a little bit of a pain but he's not a bad guy."

"What is sar-cas-tic?"

"He uses irony to explain how he's feeling," Kurenai explained.

"What is i-ro-ny?" Kyoko asked as she began to prepare her food. "Do you want some food?"

"Irony…it's when you say something but you mean the opposite. It's like when someone says 'nice day we're having' when actually not a nice day," Kurenai explained. "And no, I just ate."

"So he's just a jerk?" Kyoko asked.

"It's a little complicated," Kurenai explained with a laugh.

"Do we have to train today?" Kyoko asked.

"No, not if you don't want to. Do you want to just sit and talk?" Kurenai asked.

"Yes," Kyoko chimed. "I want to ask you a special request."

"Ask away," Kurenai chuckled.

"I like to sing and you are really good at genjutsu. Is there a way to combine them?" Kyoko asked.

"You sure are ambitious," Kurenai replied as Kyoko went to the tea kettle. She saw the little girl frown slightly. "That's not a bad thing Kyoko-hime. The best students are ambitious. I don't know much about singing but I'm sure if we put our heads together, we can figure something out." Kyoko smiled lovingly as she prepared her guest's tea.

"Thank you. I can tell…you're a really good person," Kyoko explained.

"Thank you."

* * *

><p>"Itachi-kun," Kyoko called out seeing him out and about.<p>

"Kyoko-hime!" he called back waving at her. She ran up to him with a giggle and a tender smile. She hugged him as a greeting. "How are you doing?"

"I'm doing well. I'm working on my genjutsu skills will Kurenai-san," Kyoko replied.

"That's great!"

"Kyoko-hime," Itachi began blushing slightly, "I'm going outside to look at some old scriptures, wanna come?" Since they weren't able to spend as much time together outside of missions, Itachi was feeling weird around her. He still loved to be around her, yet he wasn't sure how to act anymore.

"Sure!" Kyoko said with a nod. Itachi let out a little sigh of relief. He immediately took her hand in his with a smile. He tugged on it gently signaling that they should run together. She gave his hand a small squeeze as a way to agree. He turned around running with the little girl through the streets. He looked back at the girl with a gentle smile. Itachi had forgotten about this feeling, the feeling of love and joy when he looked into her eyes. He led her to the roofs releasing her hand. She withdrew it quickly looking back at the ground hesitantly. "Itachi-kun…"

"What is it?" Itachi asked.

"Anbu…they might stop us," Kyoko muttered.

"We aren't going very far…Please come with me Miyana-chan," Itachi answered offering her his hand again. Kyoko hesitated, Kakashi always told her not to leave the Village. She'd be violating his one golden rule if she did. "I will protect you."

"Okay," Kyoko muttered. She placed her hand back in his. Getting to the gate Kyoko hesitated once more. "Are you sure about this Itachi-kun?" Kyoko asked.

"It's not that far, I promise," Itachi replied.

* * *

><p>"What does this mean Itachi-kun?" Kyoko asked.<p>

"Hmmm, I'm not sure," Itachi answered. Itachi read the inscription again.

"This is great," Kyoko giggled. "I enjoy doing this with you."

"I think it's best to learn what our elders have left behind," Itachi answered as they scoured the ruins.

"I agree…I wonder if there were any Luponians here…you know a long time ago?"

"I'm not sure, but I'm sure if we continue digging will find something. Next time we have a mission, we'll stop off at this rare bookstore that I know of. I'm sure they will have information about your people," Itachi answered. "Miyana-chan…"

"Yes?"

"Would you rather be in your home country?"

"No…not really…I just wish I knew more about my people. I looked through Dad's book many times…it doesn't help, I've read it so much I can recite it to you."

"I do too…I want to know more about you and what it means to be the priestess. Why there are other creatures like the tailed beasts. How they came to develop…Your history…and…and why no one knows about your people,"

"The Luponians are very secretive…Also the Raikage k-"

"Miyana-chan…We're not the best people."

"What do you mean?"

"When we find something or someone that's different…we try to kill or imprison it or tame it. We don't like different things."

"But you…"

"I know that you shouldn't judge someone by what they look at. You don't see the inner beauty in anyone when you just look at them…" Itachi took a few lochs of Kyoko's hair. "Luponians are just as beautiful as Shinobi and vice versa. I know you have to hide yourself in fear of how others will react…but one day you won't have to wear your ribbons. One day us Shinobi won't be so suspicious."

"Itachi-kun don't beat up on Shinobi."

"Then why do we continue to fight? Why do we have war?"

"Itachi-kun, the Luponians fight too. I'm only here because many Luponians want to kill me."

"But why?! Why do we do this?! Why do we feel like the only way for us to survive is for someone else to die?!" Itachi growled. Kyoko stared at Itachi as he vented his frustrations. _You're not like most kids…but…you're too young for this…I can see that you're going the way of Kakashi-san. I…I don't want you to be broken!_ Kyoko thought as she watched Itachi's lips move on his angered tirade. She shook her head as her eyes formed tears. She never wanted anyone to feel this way or to feel helpless. Itachi's words ceased as quickly as they started. Kyoko was crying on his shoulder. He hesitated trying to figure out what had happened. "Miyana-chan?"

"I'm sorry," she mumbled. She placed a hand on the back of his head pulling him into a hug.

"Miyana-chan…this isn't your fault."

"I know," Kyoko whimpered.

"Stop crying. Everything's alright," Itachi cooed. He placed his hands on her cheeks. "Why are you crying?"

"It's…It's nothing," Kyoko muttered as he wiped the tears out of her eyes. She smiled at him through blurry eyes.

"You can always tell me what's wrong. I will always be there for you."

"Thank you, Itachi-kun…thank you." His right hand moved down her cheek to her left hand.

"We'll talk about it on the way home, we'll come back soon," Itachi soothed, he rubbed her tears away giving her the gentlest of smiles. Yet Kyoko's tears would be the least of their problems…

* * *

><p>Which shall happen NEXT chapter! Sorry :p It should be out some time next week, I don't feel like holding you guys and dolls in suspense.<p> 


	6. Chapter 6

Little Girl Lost Chapter 6

* * *

><p>Happy Friday!<p>

* * *

><p>"Mi…Miyana?" Itachi muttered as he approached the girl. She was laying face down in the dirt. Her mouth was trickling blood. "Miyana?!" Their attackers had been scared off by ANBU, yet they were able to land a few blows to the princess. The seven year old boy began to shake as he touched the blood on her face. His breathing quickened as he remembered the bodies on the battlefield, all the gore and bloodshed that he saw. He closed his eyes remembering his promise that he made to the Fourth Hokage. He opened his eyes still seeing Kyoko-hime lifeless on the ground. Unable to contain his anxiety he pulled Kyoko close. Her body rolled lifelessly about on his. He looked at her desperately trying to get her awake. "Miyana-chan wake up!" The ANBU hopped down from the trees separating the two children. Itachi was pulled to his feet and led away. He moved with them numbly nodding along and apologizing when the two scolded him. Itachi didn't even notice when he they arrived at the hospital. He couldn't believe it…He reviewed what happened in his head as Kyoko was taken away. How come Kyoko didn't notice the smell of the attackers? Why didn't she notify him? About an hour in Itachi was guided to Kyoko's hospital room. He stared at her like a lovesick puppy as his mind flashbacked to the battlefield, the violence, the screams and moans. Grabbing his shorts Itachi trembled and cried. In what seemed like an eon, Itachi heard Kyoko stir. He quickly rubbed the tears out of his eyes, sitting up his back erect.<p>

"Itachi-kun," she groaned. She never saw him look so petrified in her life. He flinched at her voice.

"Miyana-chan," he mumbled. He cleared his throat looking down at Kyoko. "I'm sorry…I wasn't able to protect you like I said I would."

"Hey, it's okay Itachi-kun. You're not to blame," Kyoko uttered above a murmur. She wasn't sure what had actually occurred. She placed a hand on top of her head, it stung, there was a lump, but still no memories. Although her father had taught her not to use her special ability of seeing the past…she'd have to, Itachi wasn't going to tell her.

"I have something new that I can protect you with…" Itachi answered his eyes shifted to the window.

"What?"

"A new power to protect you and Sasuke," Itachi replied vaguely. Kyoko noticed that Itachi's face was devoid of all emotions right now he resembled his father rather than his sweet mother.

"What, what! What is it?!" Kyoko asked sitting up. Pain shot up her spine and into her head. She winced and her eye twitched as she came to support herself.

"…Sharingan…" Itachi whispered. He pushed her down. He almost seemed afraid to utter it. Like if he said it more ANBU would swoop in and she'd never see him again.

"Itachi!" Kyoko grumbled trying to sit up again. He kept his hands on her shoulders.

"You rest. I'll be back later," Itachi replied.

"ITACHI!" Kyoko snapped. Itachi sat on the bed quietly.

"If ANBU wasn't there…you would have died…it was a battle between ANBU, two genin would have never…" Itachi became silent looking down at his hands. He locked eyes with her letting out a sigh. She was looking worried, and he didn't want her to look at him that way… He wanted to see her smile, to laugh, and to heal. He smiled tenderly at Kyoko. "…I will become stronger so next time…this won't happen…with **this**, I'll be able to protect you."

* * *

><p>"Kakashi-san," Kyoko mustered looking in at the boy as he read a book. He had been home for about three days. Kyoko on the other hand got out of the hospital about a day before.<p>

"What is it Kyoko-hime?" Kakashi asked. She tiptoed into the room sitting next to him. Troubled she leaned against him trying to get some type of comfort out of him. Kakashi tensed slightly not sure of what to do next. He never knew what to do in this type of situation. She would always enter and then lean on him. Minato-sensei was the huggy lovey-dovey I'll-smother-you-with-love-and-wisdom type, something that he was certain was not. Kakashi remembered shuttering when he heard his deceased teacher call Kyoko "Snuggle-Bug." He resisted the twitch in his back to give in to the weird name. Awkwardly Kakashi put his arm around her. She let out a worried nasal sigh. "You can't stay silent forever."

"Are you mad at me for what happened?" Kyoko asked.

"No…A little disappointed, but I'm not mad."

"I'm sorry," Kyoko replied.

"It's okay. I want you to stop going outside the Village gate until you get stronger."

"Yes sir," Kyoko answered. Kakashi awaited her normal response, she'd say sorry for leaning on him, he'd tell her it's okay, she'd get up and go to her room, and he'd go back to reading. Peace and solitude, Kyoko-hime was rather easy to watch in that sense. She kept to herself and only spoke to him when she had to. Yet today was different, she continued to sit there with her head against his side. He was craving his solitude, his book was getting good and he couldn't read with her against him.

"Something still bothering you?" he asked looking at the girl.

"What is the Sharingan? When I was in the hospital Itachi wouldn't stop talking about it. He kept saying that it would keep Sasuke-kun and myself safe." _So Itachi must have awakened his Sharingan…_Kakashi thought.

"It's something special to the Uchiha Clan. It gives them the ability to cast powerful genjutsu and to copy jutsu."

"Oh," Kyoko answered.

"What's bothering you?" Kakashi asked.

"Itachi is very anxious. I want him to not be so anxious."

"You're speaking cryptically again."

"Itachi-kun is like a sponge," Kyoko sat up looking up at the ceiling. She frowned allowing her ears to slump with sadness. "He sucks in all the pain of others and shoulders it on his own."

"That's an astute observation for a 7 year old," Kakashi praised.

"I don't think now is the time for praise. I'm really worried about Itachi-kun!" Kyoko whimpered.

"It'll be okay Kyoko-hime," Kakashi answered.

"BUT!"

"Leave it alone Kyoko-hime," Kakashi growled. Kyoko sighed standing up. She held in her angered emotions. _Why does Kakashi-san have to be such a jerk?!_ Kyoko thought as the boy returned to his book.

"I'm gonna go take a walk,"

"Take your guards,"

"I will," Kyoko answered.

"DON'T go outside the Village Gate!" Kakashi ordered.

"I'm not!" Kyoko snapped as she left the apartment.

"Young Maiden Miyana," Elder Akilah cooed as the girl stormed through the street.

"I'm okay!" Kyoko huffed.

"Miyana," Elder Ken growled.

"Kakashi-san doesn't care so I'm going to find someone who does!" Kyoko replied. "I'm gonna find Shisui-kun."

"Miyana, now is not the time. Walk it off and then go apologize to Kakashi-san," Elder Ken ordered.

"Why is no one worried about Itachi-kun?! He's going to kill himself if he lives this way!" Kyoko growled.

"Young Maiden Miyana, there some things that you can't change about a person. Young Priestess this is not the time to try to change him either. You're angry, you can't accomplish anything while you're angry," Elder Akilah reasoned. Kyoko let out a hiss kicking up some dirt. No one was on her side. _Daddy, Mommy what would you do?_ Kyoko thought as she continued to wander the Village angry. In about an hour she found herself in front of the Hokage Stone Monument. She stared up at the stoic stone faces with pursed lips.

"What is a cute little princess doing out so late?" a happy-go-lucky voice asked.

"Hello Jiraiya-sensei," Kyoko said calmly.

"Something's bothering you." He joined her in looking up at the former Hokage. "You're not getting along with Kakashi are you?"

"It's not that. Itachi-kun wants to take on everyone's sadness and no one wants to help me stop him from doing that!"

"First calm down Kyoko-chan," Jiraiya sighed.

"Are you going to tell me that I can't change him too?" Kyoko asked her voice at a low simmer. "Are you going to tell me that I should just leave him be?!"

"No…Look Kyoko-chan, if you want to help Itachi get over this strange quirk of his you have to sit down and talk to him about it. Also you have to do it when you're calm. If you're angry you won't get through to him," Jiraiya explained. "That's what your Daddy would tell you…I'm sure of it." Kyoko looked up to Jiraiya with her mouth wide open. She couldn't believe it…everyone was telling her that Itachi couldn't be changed. Jiraiya chuckled putting his hand on her head. "Now…let's get you home."

"Thank you, and…I'm sorry," Kyoko replied.

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-chan what are you doing?" Jiraiya asked. She looked so much like Minato. There were books, scrolls and papers all around her. Many of them were too advance for her classmates. The white haired man let out a little chuckle crossing his arms proudly.<p>

"I'm making a theory," Kyoko answered.

"How cute," Jiraiya chuckled. "What's your theory about? Flowers or Puppies?"

"Viseral Chakra," Kyoko replied looking up at Jiraiya.

"Vi…Vi….what?" Jiraiya asked. Kyoko went to her books flipping through a couple of pages. She let out a slight sigh closing the book on her lap.

"Chakra is all around us," Kyoko stated sifting through her pages. "Let's say you are a really really good sensor…the kind that can see chakra. Let's also say you know that I take the same route home every day. Every day, I touch the same street corner on my way home. I leave a little bit of chakra behind every time. Eventually there's enough chakra that gets left behind where a person forms out of chakra, an imprint. I see Papa and Mama everywhere at every stage of their lives, especially at school."

"How did you…"

"I asked Lord Hokage if I could go through Papa's books. Lord Hokage told Genma-san and Raido-san to help me get them out of storage. Some of them I was not allowed to get out of storage. I've been looking into his notes and books and stuff. Papa read me a lot of these books."

"Sometimes I wonder if your Daddy understood that you were a four year old," Jiraiya chuckled sitting down next to her.

"I was always in his office Jiraiya-sensei, I was interested in the things that he had to read and I asked 'why' all the time so…Papa answered my 'why' by reading me books. Mama didn't like it very much, but Papa didn't like it when Mama read me princess books. So I guess they passively-happily read the books to me."

"Passive-aggressively,"

"Yes, I meant that,"

"But how did you come up with this?"

"I see people," Kyoko answered standing up. She brushed her skirt off.

"What do you mean?" Jiraiya asked.

"I see those who are here and those who are not, the past and the present," Kyoko replied cryptically. She looked to Jiraiya still seeing a slightly puzzled look on his face. The girl let out a Minato like sigh of disappointment, yet with her own flare. The little girl cocked her hip and crossed her arms. Her eyes slid shut and her head rolled to the right as she paused in thought. _Sometimes I do wonder how Daddy was his student_, Kyoko thought standing straight and opening her eyes. "I see ghosts, and they talk to me. Also ghosts of the past. You got in a lot of trouble Jiraiya-sensei."

"Of course,"

"You're a bit clueless Jiriaya-sensei," Kyoko answered.

"You're a sassy little Minato," Jiraiya chuckled.

"Wouldn't I be more like Mama then?" Kyoko asked.

"Well yes but you're much more like Minato," Jiraiya answered. "But anyways I want to take my little 'pupil' out to lunch, will you accompany an old man?"

"You're not that old," Kyoko replied. She watched Jiraiya let out a laugh as he stood up. Politely Kyoko bowed to the man. "I'd be honored to accompany you Jiraiya-sensei."

"Don't use that formal crap on me." Jiraiya hated that Koharu had kept Kyoko in her etiquette class. She was already polite and courteous little girl. He would hear Kyoko use phrases like "I'm dreadfully tired", "you deserve the utmost respect", "I politely decline your humble offer" "my humblest condolences", and so on. Even Minato wasn't that formal. Kyoko nodded.

"Koharu-san always knows," Kyoko said hesitantly. Even though Minato had resolved their issues…Kyoko was always skittish talking about Koharu or being around her. She never knew what the woman would think of next to punish her. Kyoko could still hear Koharu's voice calling Kyoko a "bad girl" and that she needed to be "punished" for the evilness that Kyoko exerted from her body.

"Is Koharu bothering you?"

"No…I…can't forget what she'd done…but she continues on believing that I'm the one with malice in my heart!" Kyoko replied. "That I'm this savage that needs constant education. I know she does this because I'm a Luponian but I've always noticed that I'm very dark compared to everyone else here. Lord Third Hokage's children are on the dark side but I'm darker than them…Does she do this because I'm dark?" _Minato…Are you sure you don't have a love child? She's definitely yours_, Jiraiya thought as he mulled over a way to diffuse the situation without further upsetting the confused child.

"Well kid I can't really answer that question because I'm not Koharu, but, even if she does think that way…Never ever let her get under your skin. Your skin tone doesn't matter when it comes to skills and what you know. If they think it matters you prove them wrong," Jiraiya answered. He held the door open for the girl and they were soon seated. Jiraiya watched as Kyoko looked out the window moving side to side as if she was listening to music, or creating her own theme song in her head.

"Kyoko-chan, you're seven years old now right?"

"Yes,"

"So you have three years until you have to reseal Talasu,"

"Yes,"

"Where do you think he'd be?"

"I'm not sure…Papa said the older me banished him from Konoha so he's outside the gate somewhere, but that somewhere can be anywhere."

"Well, I'm going to do a looking then. Anything that I should look for?"

"You're really going to help me?!"

"Hey I got to keep a close eye on the Fourth Hokage's love…LY child," Jiraiya chuckled. He reached across the table to mess up her hair.

"Jiraiya-sensei…what was it like to teach Papa?"

"It was much like teaching you…a pain." Kyoko's eyes widened with sorrow. "I'm kidding, it was easy…he was very smart. Like you…he understood and applied things quickly…he was a breeze."

"You scared me for a second Jiraiya-sensei," Kyoko said with a relieved sigh.

"PRINCESS!" Jiraiya chuckled.

"Yes?" Kyoko asked. She perked up, cocked her head slightly. He reached across the table rubbing the top of her head gently. He chuckled again as her ears wiggled against his hand, she was yearning for his answer, waiting with agonizing excitement.

"Even with that face…you're still Adorkable." Her words were a blur as she muttered angrily. Jiriaya watched her huff and continue to ramble with pride. Even with the little bit of influence that his student had on her…Minato had raised a kind soul.


	7. Chapter 7:Tenzo's Special Mission Part 1

Little Girl Lost Chapter 7: Tenzo's Special Mission Part 1

* * *

><p>"I'm going off on an important mission. Can you watch this girl for me?" Kakashi asked handing Tenzo a picture of Kyoko. They were in the locker room finishing their half day of work. Looking down at the picture Tenzo saw a girl about the age of seven to nine. Her lips were pursed, as she stared into the camera lens. She wasn't happy about her picture being taken. Her hair was white and curly and her skin a medium brown. Tenzo noticed the striking color of the girl's eyes. They were such a cold icy blue but they were warm, a warmth that would melt anyone ice cold heart.<p>

"Is this really important?" Tenzo asked. He continued to study the picture, this girl, who wore ribbons in her hair, who seemed as innocent as a baby bunny. Why does she need to be watched? Tenzo looked into Kakashi's locker seeing a few old pictures of Kyoko.

"Yes, there was an attempt on her life recently and she's a very important girl. She's the adopted daughter of the Fourth Hokage, The Flower of the Leaf Village." _Kyoko's innocence and sweet nature has given her a name amongst the people…even though she has outbursts the people look fondly upon her. We don't talk about this…but everyone knows she's the Hokage's daughter…_Kakashi thought. "Her name is Miyana Namikaze but we call her by her nickname, Kyoko."

"But…I have my own…"

"Taken care of…you're free until next week. It's a personal favor, meet me here three hours, I have a couple of things I need to take care of before." Kakashi shut his locker leaving the puzzled Tenzo soon after.

* * *

><p>"This is who I'm fighting for," Kakashi said peering into a room with a little girl playing the piano. About two months prior, Kakashi had moved Kyoko into a larger apartment so she could have a room for her piano and harp. He had outfitted the door with a window so he could peer in and make sure Kyoko was doing her work and not goofing off or worst dead or missing. "As I said before she was the ward and eventually adopted daughter of the Fourth Hokage, so after he died…I took her in." Tenzo looked in seeing the girl's back to them as her fingers graced the piano's keys.<p>

"She's really good."

"She's been playing for about three years. She's a musical prodigy," Kakashi answered. "She also plays the harp." Kakashi frowned underneath his mask seeing that the girl's harp was collecting dust.

"So she started at 5?"

"Well she started at 4 but after the Hokage's death she didn't touch the instrument for a year, and one day I just found her playing it at a music store so I put her back into lessons. Two months later she was writing her own music and at eight months she was improvising. Although she's a Chunnin…I want to make sure that the music continues to play." Kakashi noticed the slight twitch of her ears moving underneath her ribbons. "She's better at singing actually, Lord Minato would be proud at such a young prodigy." Kakashi placed his hand on the door knob, turning it slightly. Kyoko's ears twitched with each click of the turning door knob.

"Kakashi-nii," Kyoko called out as the song ended. _That's right…she switched to calling me Kakshi-nii not too long ago…I wish she'd just call me Kakashi-san. She misses having a family, and I'm not a good alternative for her_, Kakashi thought. He was glad that Kyoko couldn't see his face, he only had to put on a brave voice for her. He didn't want for Kyoko to know his pain and his inadequacy as a role model.

"Kyoko-hime," Kakashi answered entering the room. Kyoko got off the bench running to the boy. She hugged his midsection tightly. "You missed me?" She held on very tightly to Kakashi rubbing her head against his belly careful that she didn't rub her ribbon right off. Kakashi smiled as he wrapped his arms around her. He remembered her initial hostilities and their constant fighting, Minato-sensei would be proud of their new relationship.

"I always miss you!"

"Say that again when I'm here for a month," Kakashi answered.

"Who's your friend?"

"This is Tenzo," Kakashi said as the boy entered the room behind them.

"Nice to meet you Tenzo-san," Kyoko replied thrusting a hand towards him. She would have bowed but she only wanted to hold on to Kakashi. "You must be an old friend of Kakashi-nii's because he just called you by your first name. Kakashi-nii! Why have I never met Tenzo-san?"

"He's in ANBU with me," Kakashi explained.

"Oh," Kyoko answered. Kakashi could see her ears shift back and up. Her attitude just became apprehensive. Kyoko withdrew her hand before Tenzo could shake it.

"You're a very good piano player, Kyoko-hime," Tenzo praised.

"I'm EIGHT not FOUR!" Kyoko answered latching back on to Kakashi. Kakashi scolded her but she remained silent.

"She's not too fond of ANBU," Kakashi sighed.

"They're always taking you away from me," Kyoko answered. Tenzo saw the sadness in the girl's eyes. She was in a lot of emotional pain and inner turmoil.

"Kyoko-hime," Kakashi began. Kyoko's grip had tightened against him. Her eyes were staring down at the ground.

"Yes," Kyoko grumbled.

"I have to go on a mission. So Tenzo is going to watch you." Kakashi was greeted with silence. He moved the girl's hair back to see her eyes were dry but on the inside the girl was numb.

"Yes sir," Kyoko said quietly. "Best of luck on your mission."

"Thank you sweet princess. I'll bring you something nice, okay?" Kakashi gently went through Kyoko's hair trying to get her in a better mood. "I know I keep saying wait…but the Hokage…"

"I understand. This is the lives of Shinobi…pain is necessary," Kyoko answered.

"Don't talk like that."

"_**You **_talk like that."

"Kyoko-hime…" Kakashi sighed. He turned his attention to Tenzo, "she's actually quite nice. She's just a little shocked right now." Kyoko was tightlipped and her grip against Kakashi tight.

"Tenzo is going to stay with you, so you make him feel welcomed okay." _This is how he's saying goodbye?! I don't understand Kakashi-nii…why do you push me away…_Kyoko thought closing her eyes with a heavy heart.

"Yes sir," Kyoko said above a whisper trying to be strong. Kakashi bent down as much as he could given that Kyoko's grip was like a boa constrictor. He gave the girl a tender hug.

"I'll see you a little later okay?" Kakashi said his voice soft and gentle. He gently pat her cheek, she was hollowing out on the inside. Kakashi found little resistance as he pried her arms off of him.

"Yes…" Kyoko's eyes watered slightly. "…be careful Kakashi-nii."

"I will," Kakashi replied. "Don't worry about me." Kyoko nodded numbly looking through Kakashi as he left. Tenzo took her out to dinner in an effort to get her into a good mood but she stayed silent and once they were home, Kyoko went to her room and didn't leave for the rest of the night.

* * *

><p>"It's time to get up Tenzo-san," Kyoko said quietly. She shook him gently as he laid on his futon. "It's 6:30am, time to get up."<p>

"Kyoko-hime?" Tenzo gasped.

"Breakfast is on the table."

"You fixed breakfast?" Tenzo groaned sitting up. "How long have you been up?"

"Yes, it's on the table. I've been up since 6am. Breakfast is ready." Kyoko's voice was toneless, devoid of the life she had used with Kakashi. "At 7:30am we have training." Tenzo sat up with a sigh.

_Flashback_

* * *

><p><em> "She has a strict schedule," Kakashi began as they walked to the little girl's apartment. The sun was beginning to set, the sky filled with hues of purples, reds and oranges.<em>

_ "A schedule?"_

_ "Did I stutter? 6:30am is breakfast, 7:30am she has taijutsu training, either with Gai or myself. Gai will be handling this week's training, just take her there. It's best if you stay unseen, especially with Gai. 8:30am to 8:40am, she has a slight break. She spends this time walking to her ballet lessons. 8:50am to 9:00am she changes to her ballet attire. 9:00am to 10:30am she has her private ballet lesson on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday she attends her full class during this time frame. Give her time to shower and she should be ready at 11:00am for her genjutsu training with Kurenai, this will last an hour and Kurenai meets her at her ballet studio. 1:00pm to 1:30pm Kyoko-hime has lunch. Join her for this, if you don't she'll just scarf down her food and move on to the next thing on her schedule. She has a brisk taijutsu training 1:30pm to 2:00pm with me, this is just to increase her speed. 2:05 to 3:45 she has singing, harp or piano lessons depending upon the day. I really don't remember which, none of this is of any importance to you. 3:45pm to 4:00pm, she has a slight break in which she normally uses to see Itachi Uchiha. He's normally walking home around this time. If she doesn't see him, she walks aimlessly. 4:00pm to 6:00pm ninjutsu training with me. 6:30pm arrive back home and she'll prepare dinner and it should be ready around 7:00pm. At 8:00pm she has a special training with her guards. She's a 'unique' girl. 9:00pm bedtime."_

_ "And she does this everyday?"_

_ "Saturday she does a variation of this. More training in taijutsu and genjutsu, only these two trainings are done exclusively by me. And from 3:00pm to 6:00pm she has etiquette classes. Sunday after 2:00pm she's free to do whatever she wants. Sunday from 6:30am to 2:00pm is the same as Monday through Friday."_

_ "Don't you ever…"_

_ "Don't question her schedule."_

_ "Did you…?"_

_ "If you ask fewer questions you'll be able to sleep at night."_

* * *

><p><em>End Flashback<em>

"Tenzo-san, your breakfast is getting cold."

"I heard you," Tenzo groaned standing up. _She's only eight years old and she gets up at 6am?_ Tenzo thought going through his hair. He went to the kitchen finding a complete traditional breakfast with a home made miso soup. "Did you make all this?"

"Yes sir," Kyoko answered. She was washing her dishes, pot and pans. "You're going to be late, you haven't showered yet and it's 6:45."

"Relax, you're 8 years old…you shouldn't be so strict on time."

"They didn't give me a margin for error. We must get going." She placed the dishes on the dish drying rack before drying her hands on her apron. She took it off soon after before joining Tenzo at her table. She stared at him silently watching him eat.

"Stop."

"Stop what? It's 6:50am…I need to join Gai-san in 40 minutes."

"Go do something else."

"I have nothing planned, Kakashi-san is in the shower by now."

"Kyoko-hime…why don't you prepare lunch?"

"Done. Yours and mine." Kyoko pointed over her shoulder at the boxes of food. "All this talking is going to make you late for your shower. Kakashi-san is always in the shower by now. Your clothes are a little wrinkled, I'm going to go iron them. Talking to me is slowing you down." Kyoko stood up leaving the room. _She's quite unique Kakashi, I'll give you that…_Tenzo thought as he finished his food and got into the shower. Just as he was about to enjoy the warm water, he heard a knock on the door.

"Tenzo-san it's 7:15…we're going to be late. I've left your clothes and lunch at the door. There are two others in ANBU who follow me as well as my guards, I'm going to go meet Gai-san."

"WAIT!" Tenzo gasped shutting off the water.

"Tenzo-san, don't worry, I'll be fine." Kyoko replied. He heard the door open and close. _Damnit!_ Tenzo cursed to himself as he got out of the shower disregarding drying himself off.

"KYOKO-HIME!" Tenzo called out.

"Tenzo-san, you should go home…you forgot to wash the shampoo out of your hair. I'm okay. Meet me at my ballet studio at 9am." Her face was calm and passive. She seemed a little edgy since she was minutes away from possibly being late. Tenzo nodded. Kyoko sighed,_ Kakashi-nii…why did you leave me with him? I'd rather be watched by Gai-san_, Kyoko thought as she continued to her meeting point.

"PRINCESS!" a voice said energetically. Kyoko shivered, although Gai was nice and kind, he still scared her. She still remembered when he picked her up and twirled her like a rag doll when she was four.

"Hello Gai-san," Kyoko said with a bow. "I'm sorry I'm a little late."

"You're earlier than you think," the boy answered. "Are you ready for hard day of training?!"

"Yes sir," Kyoko said quietly. _I wonder what it'll be today, walking on my hands, doing laps around Konoha, whatever it is…I think I'll stay as far away from Gai-san as possible_, Kyoko thought. She was giving him a sideways glance, she was still too afraid to look at him head on.

"Kakashi told me about how you're trying to increase your speed," Gai began.

"Yes, I want to be…" Kyoko paled as Gai began to stretch. "…What type of training are we having today Gai-san?"

"We're going to spar," Gai replied confidently.

"Gai-san…are you sure I'm ready for that?" Kyoko questioned. "Not even Kakashi-san does that with me."

"Don't worry, it's not like I'm going to break your bones."

"HAHA!" Kyoko laughed nervously.

"Ready?!" Gai asked enthusiastically.

"Hardly," Kyoko muttered underneath her breath. She nodded as their sparring commenced. She couldn't believe his immense speed and sheer power. _How did Kakashi-nii win against him?_ Kyoko thought as they separated briefly. She couldn't keep up with how long they had been sparring as Gai's attacks continued. _Kakashi-nii goes a lot easier on me than Gai-san,_ Kyoko thought blocking one of Gai's kicks. They separated again. Gai laughed excitedly.

"I can tell Kakashi has taught you well," Gai praised as he watched the girl pant in front of him. _She has a look of determination that can kill_, Gai thought. Kyoko nodded, her ears wiggled under her ribbons. _Tenzo-san caught up with us_, Kyoko thought looking up towards the trees. As her gaze shifted back to Gai she flinched seeing that he was gone. Suddenly, she felt the wind being knocked out of her as Gai appeared in front of her. "You're very fast young Princess but you cannot allow yourself to get distracted." Kyoko fell to her knees gasping for air.

"…eah," Kyoko breathed. She got to her feet slowly. "Thank you." She bowed to Gai respectfully.

"I guess it's about time for you to get going," Gai chuckled bowing in return. "Tell Kakashi when he gets back that we have another score to settle."

"Yeah, I will," Kyoko giggled she waved good bye to Gai picking up her backpack and running off to her next activity on her schedule. She was soon joined by Tenzo. "Hello Tenzo-san."

"Next time wait…"

"Tenzo-san," Kyoko interrupted looking up at him seriously. Her look soften as she went back to looking ahead of them. "I'll wake you up earlier next time." Tenzo sighed, he was to blame for their lateness this morning.

"Kyoko-hime,"

"Yes sir?" she asked. _She's being a lot nicer…I wonder if Kakashi had said something_, Tenzo noted.

"Do you like doing all of these things?" he asked.

"Y-Yes," Kyoko stammered. A fake smile crossed her face. "I like all of these activities very much."

"Doesn't look like it."

"I just wished I had more free time. My schedule wasn't always like this…I had much more time to play and spar with Itachi-kun when I was younger," Kyoko answered with a sigh. "Yet when you get older you have to spend more time honing your skills that's how the Fourth Hokage became great."

"You're already a great Shinobi, Kakashi is letting you train with some of the best," Tenzo replied. "You're also a chunnin at 8 years old. The Fourth Hokage didn't graduate the academy until he was 10 so don't sell yourself so short." Kyoko smiled bashfully. "For a moment there I thought you didn't like me."

"I don't." Kyoko looked up at him with a calm still face. She watched Tenzo flinch as a fiendish grin appeared on her face. "I'm just kidding! You're a nice person." Kyoko went through her hair calmly. "It's just that…Kakashi-nii likes to dump me on other people…I don't like that…yet instead of taking it out on Kakashi-nii, I take it out on the other people."

"Why do you call Kakashi, Kakashi-nii?"

"Oh that? Kakashi-nii was being a jerk one day and to tease him I started to call him Kakashi-nii. He didn't like that of course…and ever since then it's been his 'pet' name. He has grown used to it now. So every now and then I call him Kakashi-san to throw him off."

"You're quite playful."

"Yes, it's part of my charm," Kyoko giggled. "The Fourth Hokage and his wife were very playful towards each other, I guess I picked it up from them."

"You can call them Mom and Dad in front of me, it's of no disrespect to them."

"Ah…thank you," Kyoko muttered blushing. "Kakashi-nii flips between saying that I should call them Mom and Dad and the Fourth Hokage and his wife."

"Kyoko-hime, would you like your schedule to be changed?"

"It's okay…"

"But…"

"I'll be okay. We do what we have to, not what we want to sometimes. Sunday I have so much free time!" Kyoko giggled. As they approached her ballet studio Kyoko's face calmed. "It's best that you go and hide or I guess the best would be 'stay out of sight'. We'll be at the studio within 20 yards, Kakashi-nii doesn't watch me practice." Tenzo nodded disappearing into the crowd. _So three ANBU, my guards should be at the studio,_ Kyoko thought as she continued down the streets. She let out a sigh getting to the ballet studio. She changed and put her hair up in a bun to the best of her ability. By 9am she was going through her normal routines and stresses. She was almost down to the floor on her splits and her legs were getting higher on her grand battement. Just as she was beginning to have fun, her class was over.

"Kyoko-hime, don't forget we have your ballet recital this Saturday. You should invite the young boy you live with." Kyoko grimaced slightly. _I forgot to tell Kakashi-nii that…it's not like he'd come anyways…_Kyoko thought.

"I won't forget. He's…" Kyoko's small frown turned into a gentle smile, "He'd really like to come. I'll make sure to tell him." The white haired girl soon showered and dressed.

"You okay?" Kurenai asked as the girl came out of the studio. "You don't seem as chipper."

"Oh…it's just,"

"Kakashi left again…"

"Yes and…"

"And?"

"It's nothing," Kyoko sighed.

"Remember you can tell me anything," Kurenai soothed rubbing Kyoko's shoulders.

"It's alright, it's nothing really!" Kyoko chuckled sheepishly.

"Okay, I know how you like to hide things. You know you can always tell me anything. Even if it's bad you can always tell me," Kurenai answered.

"But aren't Shinobi and Kunoichi supposed to hide things,"

"Yes, but let's not get into this. Let's go to the training ground so we can practice your genjutsu," Kurenai answered.

"Kurenai-san," Kyoko began. "Do you have a boyfriend?"

"Eh?! Wh-What makes you think that?" Kurenai asked blushing.

"I was just curious." Kyoko let out a little sigh. "I think you and Kakashi-nii would be a good match."

"No," Kurenai answered forcefully. Kyoko flinched looking at Kurenai shocked. Kakashi needed someone like her, she was kind and very nurturing. Kakashi was cold with a warm heart, he needed her.

"Why?" Kyoko asked. "You two would be perfect!"

"Because, well…just no."

"I think you can make him better," Kyoko answered. "I think you can make him not so sad."

"As a friend."

"Lovers! I think you're cute!" Kyoko chimed. "He's very handsome underneath his mask!"

"You've seen what he looks like?"

"Yeah, haven't you?"

"…Well when he was younger…"

"He's really handsome!-ttebane!" Kyoko covered her mouth. She hated when Kushina's verbal tic would come out. Kushina would always become so sad when she used it. Kyoko blushed but wiggled excitedly. She'd love for Kurenai to become "Onee-chan" to her.

"You really want to convince me huh?" Kurenai asked with a slight laugh.

"Maybe just one date?"

"I think Kakashi should ask me," Kurenai chuckled. Gently Kurenai place her hand on her chin with a gentle smile.

"Okay, I'll get Kakashi-nii to ask you out," Kyoko chirped skipping ahead.

"Kyoko-hime!" Kurenai sighed. The blush returned to Kurenai's face, the little girl was serious about this.

"What?" Kyoko asked stopping ahead of her.

"What if he doesn't?"

"I'll make sure he does. If not for a date, for a thank you outing. He owes you for helping me out this much," Kyoko replied. "I'm very persuasive-ttebane."

"How so?" Kurenai asked.

"Blackmail," Kyoko replied innocently. She giggled slightly before shaking her head. "He doesn't like it when I snuggle with him. So I'll just snuggle with him constantly until he agrees."

"That sounds like Kakashi."

"Kyoko-tan! How's it going with your little boyfriend?" Kurenai asked in a joking tone.

"I-I….I-I-I don't know what you mean. Itachi-kun is a friend!" Kyoko muttered blushing heavily.

"I don't think Itachi-kun is just a 'friend'. I think he's more special to you."

"He's a very special friend! But-But NOT my boyfriend!" Kyoko piped.

"Oh please," Kurenai chuckled. "But now that I have your emotions rattled, let's work on your genjutsu." At some distance Tenzo watched Kyoko and Kurenai sit down and begin their training. He let out a sigh, what was with this girl, besides being a ward of the Fourth Hokage, why was she so special? Kakashi's words rattled in his mind. He felt this tingle when she was near as if she exerting a certain power, also if the Third Hokage had two additional ANBU following after her, she had to be special. Also what of these two wolf guards. They kept their distance but were always in eye shot of her. He spotted them in the trees nearby. _These aren't ordinary wolves…They have amazing dexterity and advanced chakra control,_ Tenzo thought. He was soon joined by his fellow ANBU brethren as they watched Kurenai cast stronger and stronger genjutsu against Kyoko. And one by one she dispelled them, even if it took her awhile.

* * *

><p>I've noticed I've been using a lot of ballet terms without defining them for those who don't do ballet or know nothing about it, so whenever I do use these terms I'm going to add a glossary to the end of the chapter.<p>

Grand Battement - a movement in which both legs are kept straight and one leg is kicked outward from the body and in again.

Don't worry, I'll go over Kyoko's Chunnin Exam a little later.


	8. Chapter 8:Tenzo's Special Mission Part 2

Little Girl Lost Chapter 8: Tenzo's Special Mission Part 2

* * *

><p>"So it's time for lunch huh Kyoko-hime?"<p>

"Yup!" Kyoko said with a head nod. She giggled sweetly, giving Tenzo the lunch she had prepared.

"So princess, you like cookies?"

"Yes."

"Do you like ice cream?"

* * *

><p><em>Kyoko sat outside the door to her new found parent's bedroom. She listened to Kushina beg her Daddy to go out and buy some chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream for her. After much prodding Kyoko heard her Daddy get out of bed. Kyoko quickly got up from the floor and walked to her bedroom. She peered out the door as her parent's door opened. Her ears wiggled excitedly as she watched Minato come out.<em>

_"Kyo-chan," he called out quietly. "Why aren't you sleeping?" Kyoko shuttered, **how did Daddy know? Daddy always knows!**_

_"Can't sleep…been up," Kyoko answered._

_"Come on out," Minato sighed. Kyoko gulped coming out of the doorway. He looked insanely tired. He looked down at her with an amused half-awake smile. "It's okay to wake me up and tell me that you can't sleep."_

_"Okay," Kyoko muttered. She shifted anxiously as her arms went up towards Minato. "Up?" He continued to smile_ _letting out a sigh._

_"Okay." Kyoko felt his arms around her as she was hoisted up. "You wanna come with Daddy?"_

_"Yes please," Kyoko answered. She wrapped her arms around his neck._

_"You like doing things with Daddy?" Minato asked getting his haori from the closet. He wrapped it around Kyoko, it was going to be a cold night, and he wanted for his little girl to be warm. He put her hat on._

_"Yes," Kyoko answered. She heard the jingle of his keys, the opening and closing of the front door and felt the cold brisk air. "It's cold Daddy!"_

_"Yes! Yes it is," Minato cooed. She shivered against him. "That's why I covered you up Kyo-chan. We can't let you get sick." Kyoko peered over his shoulder as he carried her to their unknown destination._

_"Why does Mommy want so many different foods?"_

_"Why does Mommy want so many different FOODS? Because sometimes the baby gets really hungry and takes more nutrients from Mommy. That makes Mommy gets hungry and then Mommy begs and pleads with Daddy to go get her more food," Minato explained. Kyoko pulled herself closer, it was quite cold. "Sometimes the baby doesn't know what time it is and the baby eats the nutrients in the middle of the night and then Mommy wakes up hungry."_

_"What are nutrinuts?"_

_"It's a special thing in food that makes us well or gives us energy or makes us strong, and so on."_

_"Wow," Kyoko muttered. "Daddy, you're a really smart cookie." She heard Minato chuckle as he adjusted his grip on her._

_"Only daughters can be smart cookies."_

_"Daddies are big smart cookies." Minato laughed kissing Kyoko's head._

_"You're a darling little princess you know that?"_

_"I'm NOT little," Kyoko grumbled._

_"You're little compared to me."_

_"Yes, but I'm NOT little. I am little in AGE but I am NOT little. Itachi-kun and I are almost same height and Itachi-kun is taller than many, so I am taller than many!" She heard Minato laugh again. She sat up from his shoulder looking at him. "Why do you laugh?" She watched him flinch as he tried to come up with an answer._

_"I laugh because I think you're cute," Minato replied rubbing Kyoko's head. Kyoko cocked her head, furrowed her eyebrows and stared into Minato's eyes. She cocked her head to the other side blinking twice._

_"Why?"_

_"When you say cute things it makes me really happy and the only thing I can do is laugh when I see you act and react in cute ways," Minato answered._

_"Oh," she answered._

_"Alright we're here, Princess," Minato sighed. "I'm gonna put you down and then I can wrap you back up in the haori when we leave. Take my hand sweetheart." Kyoko quickly took it swinging it tiredly. Placing her spare hand at her mouth Kyoko opened her mouth yawning. "Getting tired?" he asked leading her down aisles and past…_

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-hime," Tenzo asked shaking the girl. She flinched as her memories slipped from her. "Are you alright?"<p>

"Yeah, you just reminded me of a fond memory. I'm actually allergic to milk. Kakashi-nii was actually able to figure that out. Mama and Papa didn't quite figure out what I meant by 'I don't like cow milk,' before they passed. They just never gave me cereal or other things that they put milk in." Kyoko let out a slight sigh. "Tenzo-san, does Kakashi-nii suffer from stress in ANBU? That's if you can tell me."

"What do you mean?"

"Kakashi-nii he…does…" Kyoko became silent as she thought of the boy's obsessive hand washing and night terrors. "…I…never mind. I don't think I should share that with you. Sorry." Kyoko's ears twitched underneath her ribbons. "We should get going though! I'll be late!"

"Kyoko-hime, why don't we walk and talk instead?"

"But taijutsu training…"

"I want to get to know you better. Would you feel better if we ran?"

"No…tai-,"

"Kyoko-hime, if you live your life this way, you're only going to set yourself up for disaster when you go on tougher missions."

"Understood. I'm…but what about the Elders?"

"I'll make sure I will get in trouble instead. I'm the one who changed your plans not you. I think it's essential that we talk and get to know you. I'm going to be living with you for a week."

"Did Kakashi-nii tell you why you're watching me?" Kyoko asked. _Her voice and demeanor changed…I wonder if this what it was like to talk to the Fourth Hokage…_Tenzo thought. Kyoko was looking ahead of them and her eyes had narrowed seriously.

"You're the Fourth Hokage's daughter,"

"It's more than that." Kyoko cocked her head slightly so she could lock eyes with Tenzo. "Do you know what a Luponian is?"

"No," Tenzo sighed.

"We're a special type of human that lives East of the Land of Lightening. We have 'wolf blood', meaning that we can freely transform into our wolf form. We're not werewolves we for the most part don't lose ourselves, there are a few instances in which we can go on a rampage but it's not from a full moon or other things. Under these ribbons I hide my wolf ears because I don't think many non-Luponians would appreciate it. Yet with this special designation as Luponian…I have another designation…High Priestess." Kyoko looked ahead of them. "There are fifteen priestesses and one high priestess. We share what our gods preach, as High Priestess I should be the strongest of all the Luponian. Yet…people want me dead…there are many clans that feel that since I'm the last of the Kin Clan…my Priestesshood should be turned over to another clan, and they try to kill me. People try to kill me because I'm Lord Fourth Hokage's daughter and that I am high priestess, so I live with Kakashi-nii until I'm strong enough to defend myself."

"I see,"

"So I understand why Kakashi-nii chose you. You're someone who is capable of defending me from the most elite shinobi and Luponians. I don't think Gai-san or Kurenai-san would be able to stand up to them…and they don't know about my secret." Kyoko answered. Her ear twitched as they approached Akiyo's home. "Yet, we can talk more in private." She looked down letting out a small sigh, switching to a smile her demeanor changed. "I'll see you a little later Tenzo-san." Today she was singing and Tenzo stayed outside listening to the girl's gentle voice. After an hour he watched the girl leave Akiyo's home. She stood there seemingly frozen in time. She'd shift her weight every now and then but she stayed almost perfectly still. Ten minutes passed before she burst into movement throwing her arms around a boy near her age. _He's an Uchiha…_Tenzo noted seeing the iconic fan on his back. Below Kyoko gently placed her hands on Itachi's face. He looked terrible and torn. His eyes were sullen and dark. She knew what this was about.

"Itachi-kun?" Kyoko muttered.

"It's nothing." He looked away from her as she massaged his cheeks. She was frowning at him.

"Itachi-kun, this isn't for you. Your soul is tormented," Kyoko said softly.

"This is all I know…this is our lives Kyoko-hime," Itachi answered.

"Itachi-kun," Kyoko muttered. Itachi gave her a bitter sweet smile. He took her hands down holding on to them tightly. He mouthed a 'thank you' at her.

"Let's get going." He released one hand offering her his arm. "I have to escort the Princess in a royal way." Kyoko rolled her eyes taking his arm.

"You have a strange sense of humor," Kyoko chuckled.

"I do?"

"Yes, you do. You always act like I'm this posh princess who speaks ever so formally," Kyoko sighed.

"Because you do speak ever so formally," Itachi teased. Kyoko shook her head with a smile. "Come on you sweet Princess, I'll take you home."

"But…"

"No…no, I'll take you home,"

"I feel bad when you walk me home…you have to walk so far to get home,"

"Don't feel bad. It's my duty to get you there without a scratch."

"Itachi…it's not yo…"

"You're a princess and I'm your royal body guard. Miyana-chan," Itachi began looking down at her.

"Yes?"

"Your hair has gotten curlier," Itachi chuckled as he plucked up one of her locks. He ran his fingers down the bumpy strands tenderly.

"Well, Mama would brush my hair which pulled the curls into a more relaxed state. I use a comb and my fingers so it doesn't ruin my curls as much. I hate them though…people call me a cloud or 'baaa' at me as if I were sheep."

"I think your hair is beautiful."

"Why? It only causes trouble."

"Because,"

"Because of what?"

"Because you wouldn't be Kyoko-hime without it."

"You're speaking in riddles again."

"Hardly," Itachi chuckled. They reached her apartment. "I guess I'll see you later Miyana-chan." He kissed her forehead gently.

"Don't you mean Princess?"

"That's right Miyana-hime," Itachi chuckled. "I'll see you at the end of the week at your recital."

"Good bye Itachi," Kyoko muttered blushing. Unlocking her door Kyoko stepped in with a slight giggle.

"So that was Itachi-kun," Tenzo chuckled. Kyoko turned even redder. Her eyes darted left and right trying to figure out how much he had seen.

"Wha-What?!" Kyoko gasped.

"Uchiha Itachi, wasn't that him?"

"Yes," Kyoko muttered.

"He likes you a lot now doesn't he?"

"It's time to practice-ttebane!" Kyoko blurted out.

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-hime?" Tenzo called out. She went to lay down for a couple of minutes but thirty minutes had passed. "Kyoko-hime?" Tenzo found her passed out in her room. <em>This is too hard on her. She needs time to be a child<em>, Tenzo thought covering up the little girl with a blanket.

"She works very hard," Elder Akilah sighed.

"You must be one of her guards?"

"Yes, Elder Akilah. This happens often…She just gets so tired that by the end of the day she just conks out and sleeps till her alarm goes off," Elder Akilah answered. "My mate is out scanning the surroundings. Would you like me to wake her?"

"No…I'll cook instead, give the girl a little break," Tenzo answered. He allowed Elder Akilah out of the girl's room and into the kitchen. He closed the door quietly not to disturb the young lady. "What's this?" The elder wolf had a piece of paper in her mouth. She released it to the boy sitting in front of him with a grin.

"Kakashi-san received this flyer a day ago. He didn't get a chance to look at it, it's from Akiyo, Kyoko-hime's ballet instructor." Curious Tenzo unfolded the paper.

"It's a flyer for a ballet recital…Kyoko-hime's going to be in it…" Tenzo muttered.

"Oooh, the poor dear. I'll go cheer her up when she wakes up. But you should get to cooking before the dear wakes up."

* * *

><p>Days later Tenzo met with the Konoha Elders and the Hokage. He crouched down bowing to his superiors.<p>

"Lord Hokage, I would like to request more time off for Kyoko-hime," Tenzo explained from his bowed position.

"She's Lord Fourth Hokage's daughter, she was doing all of this before he passed away," Koharu said proudly.

"Lord Hokage, she commonly sleeps through dinner, and she does miss when she was able to play and relax with Itachi during the week days. She doesn't have tha…"

"ENOUGH Tenzo," Koharu snapped, "…Lord Fourth Hokage had many enemies, she must be _perfect_ in her pursuits."

"Koharu-sama, I understand her ninjutsu, genjutsu and taijutsu training but everything else…why must she…"

"She was already in piano and harp lessons before his death and there was talk about the voice and ballet lessons. She's just on the track that the Fourth Hokage projected."

"But at the cost of her health? She's overexerting herself. Lord Hokage please! I'm not asking for you to allow her to do nothing each day but to allow her to have time as a child."

"Is this what she wants?" Lord Hiruzen asked.

"She told me a few days ago how she missed having the free time she had when she was younger," Tenzo explained.

"We'll talk it over…for now she'll continue her current schedule. Since you're watching Kyoko-hime as a personal favor of Kakashi, I'll allow you to make a few concessions to her schedule but only during the times that Kakashi trains her."

"Thank you Lord Hokage!" Tenzo mustered.

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-hime," Tenzo called out.<p>

"Hm?"

"You wanted to have your little boyfriend over?"

"HE'S NOT MY BOYFRIEND!" Kyoko snapped turning a bright crimson.

"Well then your little friend."

"Yeah but we have ninjutsu training."

"Well I spoke to the Hokage and he's allowing you to break from your schedule right now,"

"Really?!" Kyoko gasped.

"Yeah, Elder Ken is getting him right now."

"Really?!" Kyoko gasped again. Excitement was taking over her body. She quivered the same way she did as a four year old. Kyoko put her hands on her shoulders trying to calm herself.

"You're that excited."

"No," Kyoko mumbled averting her eyes.

"You're quite the lively little girl."

"I am not." She jittered excitedly for almost twenty minutes until they heard a knock on the door. and the girl's eyes lit up excitedly. "Itachi-kun!" She ran to the door peeping out the eyehole seeing the boy waiting patiently on the other side. With a swift flick of her wrist the door knob was turned. _She's excited…_Itachi thought as the door flung open. Her arms around his neck in a jittery hug.

"Kyoko-hime," Itachi chuckled.

"Itachi-kun!" she responded excitedly.

"I'm glad that you have this time off."

"Wanna bake a pie?" Kyoko asked pulling him inside.

"Sure," Itachi answered. "Is this to get better at your skinning skills?" Kyoko immediately sulked. Her excited energy disappeared.

Her voice became small, "They're not that bad."

_So this is the prodigal child…Uchiha Itachi. He's much more lively around her than others…yet there's something about this kid…it's funny…I get this feeling about Kyoko-hime as well,_ Tenzo thought as Kyoko and Itachi looked at each other with a certain type of excitement in their eyes. It was if they hadn't seen each other in a long time.

"You're still growing out your hair?" Kyoko asked as Itachi accompanied her to the kitchen.

"I remember a little Wolfie telling me that she liked boys with long hair," Itachi chuckled.

"Yes I did say that, but I'd love you just the same if you had short hair."

"Well, I think I like mine long besides," Itachi grabbed a few lochs of her hair, "I like girls with long hair…but I'd love you just the same if you had short hair." Itachi brought her lochs of hair to his nose. "I love the smell of your hair."

"Itachi…" Kyoko muttered blushing heavily. "You're really weird-tteb…You're weird! But let's get started on the apples."

"Yeah," Itachi answered. "I want to see if your skinning skills have gotten any better." Kyoko rolled her eyes as she picked up the apples. Tenzo watched the little girl and boy as she struggled through cutting the skin. Itachi chuckled crossing his arms amused. He gently took the knife out of her left hand. He positioned her left hand on the knife.

"Itachi-kun," Kyoko sighed. He laughed softly as his right hand positioned the apple within her hand.

"I'm just helping," Itachi replied. He leaned his head on her head.

"I don't need you to do that," Kyoko answered.

"Miyana-hime," Itachi soothed. His voice was soft so Tenzo could hear her real name.

"Yes?"

"Do you see how to cut them now?"

"Yes. I can skin apples."

"You do an okay job." Itachi teased as they cut the apples together. Tenzo kept a close eye on them, it was strange, in some ways they acted like adults but they were also so childish and innocent. Itachi was better at skinning apples than Kyoko yet the way he was helping her seemed too adult like.

"It's a little annoying Tenzo-san…Itachi-kun is right handed but he can also skin apples with his left hand. I don't know how he does it." Kyoko was able to get back at Itachi teasing him about his pie crust making skills. About 45 minutes later, they had their pie. They then in a childish manner, made dinner before she bid Itachi goodbye.

* * *

><p>"Thank you Mikoto-san," Kyoko cooed. The woman gave Kyoko a partial braided crown and a braided bun. It was the day of her recital and the young girl was quieter than normal. Mikoto thought that she was just nervous, this would be the first time Kyoko would perform in public.<p>

"Don't worry about that Princess," Mikoto cooed. "So your tutu is at school?"

"Yes," Kyoko whispered.

"What will you be dancing?"

"Just a small solo…It's nothing real impressive." It was something out of the ordinary for Kyoko to say. Minato had taught the girl to be honest and humble, but this little girl was self-depreciating herself.

"Kyoko-hime," Mikoto said sternly. Kyoko looked back at Mikoto confused. "I know you're not being modest right now. You need to have more confidence. You are a wonderful dancer."

"Yes Ma'am."

"I can't have my little baby being so sad. You have so much potential outside being a ninja," Mikoto explained. "Now smile. You have this starry eyed boy who loves you and his family to support you. You have Kakashi-san and his friends. You are so loved." Itachi turned his head to them. Kyoko's face was covered in a thick layer of makeup. Mascara, Eyeliner, Eye shadow, Blush, Foundation, Lipstick, Lipgloss…the works. Yet it bothered him. Akiyo's assistant teacher had picked out the makeup for Kyoko, and had instructed Kyoko to cover her face and neck. Secretly Kyoko had admitted to him that the assistant teacher to cover her arms as well in the powder. Itachi moved in front of Kyoko. The powder, this foundation…it didn't suit Kyoko's color. Silently Itachi took her wrist turning it over revealing the soft yellow undertone of her brown skin. The powder was lighter than this tender side of her. This makeup…it made her look of a sickly porcelain, like a doll that had yellowed and burned in the sun.

"Thank you Mikoto-san," Kyoko said smiling bittersweetly. Mikoto kissed the top of Kyoko's head as she stood up.

"Now I'm going to go get my coat. Itachi, you keep her warm alright, we don't want her muscles tensing up!" Mikoto ordered.

"Yes," Itachi replied. Kyoko was looking down at her hands. They seemed foreign to her. Kyoko felt Itachi looking at her, he knew that she was bothered.

"I'm alright," Kyoko mustered.

"Kyoko-hime," Itachi began. She bit her red lips slightly. Itachi's voice softened just above a whisper, "Miyana-hime…Miyana-chan. This makeup is a mask…it's not you."

"I don't like how she lightens me. As if I'm not beautiful being this…honest this isn't…"

"Miyana-hime," Itachi said firmly. "You are beautiful. Your skin is beautiful. People want to change you because they're intimidated by you. Don't let their weaknesses and fears make you weak." He took her other wrist shaking her slightly. "Now you're going to reaffirm that you are the best, okay?!" Kyoko nodded was a weak smile. "Okay?!"

"OKAY!" Kyoko grumbled. She let out a giggle with a sweet smile. "Itachi-kun, thank you."

* * *

><p><em>Kakashi-san's not here<em>, Itachi thought looking around the small theater. Itachi furrowed his brow as his eyes darted about, _that's why she's acting vulnerable_. His mother placed her hand on his shoulder.

"Continue showing her love and understanding. She'll come around and tell you what's troubling her," his mother soothed. "She's like you. And you always tell her what's troubling you." The lights dimmed and Itachi's attention turned to the stage. He scanned the faces of the girls, they were just a plastered with makeup as Kyoko. Little plastered angels in white tutus and white tights. The clapping Itachi heard drained out as Kyoko tiptoed out onto the stage. Her tutu was different, it was navy blue and her tights black.

He stared as she waited seemingly frozen in time as the girls danced around her. Itachi squinted he couldn't make out Kyoko's inner thoughts and feelings. His eyes widened as she came to life with grace and poise. She hopped and twirled about to the music. As he stared at her face he noticed that he was imitating a small smile. She was doing something that she loved, and that made him happy. Yet just like that her twirling stopped and she was once again was frozen in time. Her face became stoic as the other girls danced around Kyoko again. Kyoko not once joined in with them. Eventually Kyoko rushed off stage and another soloist took her place.

Itachi watched with dismay. Was this also what was bothering her? He couldn't focus on the blurs across the stage or the pounding of their feet. Kyoko was a dancer more than a shinobi. She practiced ballet more than she did her shinobi arts. She danced as a child and commonly pulled Itachi into her shenanigans. The new soloist was good, but not graceful or confident. She wore a look of utter fear on her face. She stumbled a few times which only made the girl more nervous. And with an ungraceful landing the show was over. The crowd clapped excitedly and Kyoko was invited back on stage. Itachi immediately stood up. As she came to take her bow, Kyoko blushed seeing the boy's hands come together quickly.

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-hime!" Kurenai called out to her.<p>

"Kurenai-san?" Kyoko gasped. "How did you?"

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"I…I didn't think…"

"Of course I would've been here. Gai was here too but he was so inspired by all these young girls he decided to run several laps around Konoha." Kurenai smiled gently. "We're all proud of you." Kurenai hugged the young girl tenderly. "I know your little boyfriend's family is taking you out tonight. So I'll see you tomorrow. We'll go get dango okay?" Kyoko bid Kurenai good bye. _Thank you Tenzo-san…_she thought with a slight nod. With a heavy sigh Kyoko joined Itachi and his family.

"Kyoko-hime," Itachi soothed. He took her hands in his. "Good job." Kyoko nodded.

"We're all proud of you Kyoko-hime," Fugaku mustered.

"Thank you," Kyoko answered. She wore an unsure smile on her face. "I didn't do to much really."

"Kyoko-hime," Itachi muttered. "What is it?"

"She redid the show…at the last minute…she redid the show," Kyoko answered. "I was the only soloist…yet one of the mothers complained, 'My daughter is not going to be passed up by a girl as dark as night.' Our real teacher was called away urgently…the student teacher…teaching assistant…she told me that people like me…" Kyoko looked down at her arm "…they're not fit for dancing. I should quit while I'm ahead."

"Let's not worry about it today. You did your best, better than everyone else here. My wife and I will have a little talk with this woman. Tonight let's celebrate," Fugaku answered. He placed his hand on her head proudly. "You're a part of this family, and just like Itachi and Sasuke, it pains me to see you so upset." Kyoko blushed embarrassed by the man's words. Itachi hugged his friend with a smile.

"Thank you, Fugaku-san," Kyoko said quietly. Fugaku nodded becoming the stoic man once again.


	9. Chapter 9

Little Girl Lost Chapter 9

* * *

><p>"Kakashi-nii!" Kyoko gasped. She threw her arms around him in the happiest of hugs.<p>

"It was only a week."

"A week, a day, even a hour that you're away on missions is too long!" Kyoko replied. _If I could time travel, go back to when Kyoko was four years old and tell myself that Kyoko will hug you, call you 'Kakashi-nii' and be genuinely happy to be around you…I wouldn't believe myself_, Kakashi thought as he rubbed her head.

"Well come on. You shouldn't be out here at the gate by yourself."

"I wasn't, I had Genma-san," Kyoko replied pouting back at the older boy. Genma smiled waving back. "Before that I had Itachi-kun."

"You had a recital," Kakashi asked.

"Yeah…" Kyoko sighed. "It's okay though, there will be others."

"You're like Minato-sensei, always forgiving."

"Isn't it right to forgive? You can't be mad forever…If I was then I'd be as mean as some of the Elders."

"That's not nice to say."

"But you know it's true…Danzo-san." Kyoko sighed. She rubbed her left wrist anxiously. "Will I see Tenzo-san again?"

"I'm sure you will. There will be other missions," Kakashi sighed.

"Was he experimented on?" Kyoko asked. She lowered her voice. "My gods says there's something 'augmented' or 'unnatural' about him."

"I don't think so," Kakashi lied.

"Don't lie to me please," Kyoko answered.

"I don't really know Kyoko-hime," Kakashi answered. Kyoko tussled her hair with an annoyed sigh. Kakashi wasn't going to let her know, it must have been confidential ANBU stuff. "Kyoko-hime, do you want more time to yourself?"

"Yes, if I can…I am very tired at night. I don't have time to hang out with Itachi-kun. I miss that time…" Kyoko answered.

"Well, I'll see what I can do."

"Um…Kakashi-nii," Kyoko muttered.

"Yes?"

"Can I see **him**?" Kyoko asked.

"You just cannot…Not now Kyoko-hime."

"BUT!" Kyoko whined.

"Kyoko-hime. You may NOT see him. If they figure out who you are to him. We'd have to put you BOTH into hiding."

"Yes sir," Kyoko sighed. Kyoko looked down dismayed. He was 4 years old now, and the only love he knew from her was when he was a baby. "I just want to meet him before he becomes a man."

"I understand Kyoko-hime but you need to be patient."

"Please, I just…" Kyoko whispered. Tears began to fall from Kyoko's eyes. "…he's family…and he doesn't even know I exist. I know he does…but he doesn't know about me."

"Kyoko-hime, it'll happen. Soon enough…You just have to be patient." Kyoko but her lips as she wiped her tears on her sleeve. She nodded becoming silent. She stared ahead in a sad stupor. Her eyes were large her eyebrows raised and pinched. Her mouth was still but Kakashi knew she was panicked. Naruto was 4 years old now, and he was a rambunctious child who caused trouble. The Villagers also did not take too kindly to him. "Kyoko-hime."

"Yes?"

"None of this is your fault. You can't blame yourself for his actions,"

"But…I…"

"It's NOT your fault."

"My prophecy…I knew…well my body knew that this would happen. Or that this…something about this!"

"Kyoko-hime, let's not talk about this."

"You never want to talk about this!" Kyoko hollered. _And so the fighting begins_, Kakashi thought as Kyoko went back to crying. "Why do you act so emotionless?!" Angrily Kyoko ran away. _You're still a jerk_, Kyoko thought as she ran through the crowds. She heard voices mutter her name as if they were reaching out and touching her. She shook her head as she continued to run. All she wanted was to have a family. Her biological parents had given up on her, and the ones who treated her like their own were 6 feet under. An arm grabbed her, she knew the scent, Jiraiya. "LET GO!" _Why does he always find me at my worst?!_ Kyoko thought. She thrashed as he tightened his grip.

"Kyoko-hime," his voice soothed.

"What?!" Kyoko demanded. She pushed him away glaring through blood red eyes.

"A princess doesn't cr…"

"I princess doesn't create a scene. A princess is a model citizen. Maybe I don't want to be a princess anymore!" Kyoko hollered. She pushed away from Jiraiya running away again. Hours later, just as the sun had fully set, Jiraiya caught up with Kyoko. She was sitting ontop of the Fourth Hokage's monument looking out into the Leaf Village.

"Kyoko-chan," Jiraiya said quietly.

"I'm sorry…I just got into the heat of the moment. I just…really want to see him. To play with him…sing to him when he's scared, hug him when he's sad…you understand Jiraiya-sensei."

"Yes…It's still too early for you to see him. Your movements are still being tracked by your father's movements." Jiraiya sighed sitting next to her. "You know you worried Kakashi."

"Yes, but sometimes he deserved it…"

"That's not the forgiving person Minato taught you to be," Jiraiya scolded.

"Why won't he talk to me?! Why does he push me away?!"

"Kakashi lost his mother at an early age, and his father committed suicide. He's dealing with his own emotional scars. He has lost everyone close to him. His teammates, his parents, his teacher…the last thing he wants to happen is to lose you. He unintentionally pushes you away because he doesn't want to suffer the emotional pains of loss."

"Now I feel like the jerk," Kyoko muttered. She pulled her knees to her chin.

"Now, Kyoko-hime, I know you waited while he was in the womb…and you're waiting now…but you'll meet him. You'll get to know him. You know, I want to meet him too…but it's too early for me to do that. We'll wait together okay?" Kyoko nodded against her knees. "How old are you now?"

"Eight…"

"You're getting so old now…"

"That's what everyone says…"

"But you are. You have mellowed out…you've grown. Your mother and father would be proud."

"Jiraiya-sensei…will I ever find my birth parents…will I ever know what happened to them…I really want to know what happened to my father…I don't really care about my mother…she wanted me dead."

"That's not very nice to say."

"She tried to drown me…that's the only memory I have of her…besides that Kushina and my birth mother looked exactly the same. I don't remember anything else. My birth father…I remember his warm hand when we went on walks around the temple. He used to take me to the tallest point and tell me about all the people in the world, Shinobi and Luponian, that if we work together…we can have a better world. He said that we could make a better world…I want to know if he'd be here to see that. I don't even remember what he look like…" Kyoko's eyes brimmed with tears again.

"You feel a little lost right now don't you."

"More than a LITTLE lost. I have these standards. A princess must not create a scene. A princess must be a model citizen at all times. You're the 'Flower of the Leaf Village' don't disappoint us. I don't even know how I even got that title. Papa never called me that, neither did Mama. …Everyone wants to see how I compare to Papa. I've graduated before him…so everyone is looking forward to what I can do from here…but Papa was a genius. He was quick and smart and so kind. I know Papa worried about how I'd be accepted in this world…especially since people thought of me as his lovechild. I randomly appeared without an explanation…he took me to work without a care in the world. He greeted the glares and shaking heads with a smile. He knew that I could ruin him…yet he kept me. I've seen so much…I've been at the brink of death because of starvation…I've been beaten and enslaved…people turned their backs on me left and right…yet he…" Kyoko bit her lip to stop herself from crying. "…he didn't care! He treated me like a person. I wasn't a savage! I wasn't a beast! He treated me so kindly but…I don't have much to repay him…"

"He wouldn't ask for repayment, so don't even worry about it. Your father wanted you to be as happy as possible." Jiraiya smiled rubbing Kyoko's head in between her ears. He felt her ears flatten downwards. She was soothed by his gesture. Kyoko's lips pulled back only slightly into a small smile. "Are you ready to head back?" Kyoko nodded.

"Thank you Jiraiya-sensei," Kyoko said just above a whisper. He stood up offering her his hand. Kyoko allowed him to hoist her up.

* * *

><p>"Do you think it's safe to resume testing on the Luponian girl," Orochimaru asked. "She's unique in her ability to passively absorb natural energy. The only negative attribute is being excitable."<p>

"No, Hiruzen has too much security on her. That little brat has also become too strong to restrain with usual methods. It's been 4 years and you still haven't cracked the code of that trap."

"It's primitive, yet sophisticated. Why don't you get the little girl to help you?" Orochimaru suggested. "She's still, impressionable."

"The brat has always been suspicious of me. The only one she'll talk to without suspicion is Hiruzen. He won't bring this to her."

"Perhaps you should just force an opportunity upon her."

"In due time. Once Hiruzen removes the guards…and Kakashi is away on a mission."

"All I want is her blood."

"She's unique to her people. She's a shape shifter becoming anyone she pleases. Also their high priestess. There should be a lot of good things that you can extract from her blood."

"Yes, there's something interesting that the Fourth Hokage has been hiding from you and the council about that girl."

"What's that?" Danzo growled.

"Those gods, really demons have an intriguing seal on her. One of two things will happen on her 18th birthday. Either she releases the gods onto the world or she can become immortal IF she does not find a suitable husband. Anyone who takes those demons out of that vessel on her birthday and reseals them within one's self…will become immortal with the access to all of the chakra that those demons contain.

"You think the girl has the possibility to be that powerful?"

"You saw her skills when you tested on her all those years ago."

"Yes but the child's skills are flat lining."

"It's strange to see you in denial. Send Root out to spy on her…she's besting Itachi Uchiha right now. He was number 1, she was number 2 at the Academy and they both graduated after a year," Orochimaru answered.

"I see your point. I'll see what I can do to get her alone," Danzo mustered.

* * *

><p>"You're home," Kakashi said in his normal nonchalant tone. Yet Kyoko could tell that he was worried. Kyoko put her keys on the key rack, took off her shoes and then shuffled into the room. Kyoko rubbed her left wrist anxiously, she didn't know what he was thinking.<p>

"I'm ready for my punishment," Kyoko answered her voice unwavering. She needed to show Kakashi that she was still strong. Yet Kyoko's head bowed submissively, she had to accept her fate.

"I'm not going to punish you." Kakashi looked up at her from his chair. "I know you're struggling. It's hard…I know it's hard for you. Lord Third Hokage is still telling me to tell you to wait. We still have to protect you from Minato-sensei's enemies."

"I know," Kyoko mumbled.

"Perhaps, I've been too hard on you," Kakashi sighed standing up. "You are a smart young lady…Very smart, brilliant. Yet, you are also a child…You need time to play and just be a child. You have been forced to grow up since you are the Fourth Hokage's daughter. And, we all forget that…including myself. You've come so far after graduating from the Academy, it's hard to not notice your achievements. Yet everyone needs a break. This schedule you're on is grueling even for an adult. So let's take a break and start a new. I'll let you share your feelings with me, and I'll work on giving you an easier schedule."

"Thank you," she whispered softly. Kakashi gave her a single nod.

"Now off to bed it's late. I know Jiraiya-san took you out, so I know you're not hungry."

"Good night Kakashi-nii," Kyoko said quietly. She went to her room turning in for the night.

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-hime," Itachi muttered dropping his bag. She was in his entryway taking off her shoes. What a pleasant surprise! He threw his arms around her. It had been so long since he had seen her.<p>

"Itachi-kun?!" Kyoko gasped. She blushed as he held on tight. Kyoko wrapped her arms around his midsection. He had been away on a mission and his mother had asked her to come over on his homecoming. Kyoko let out a sigh closing her eyes blissfully.

"Miyana-chan," he whispered into her ear. In the shadows Mikoto watched excitedly. Every year Itachi had become closer to "his" princess. If things continued, Mikoto would get her grandbaby in no time. Yet she did worry, Kyoko was to go back to her people, if Itachi went with Kyoko, then Mikoto would never see her grandbaby.

"Yes?" Kyoko whispered back.

"I'll walk you home," he answered. He pulled her back down so she could put her shoes back on. It was a nice surprise, but it was late. Kyoko needed to be safely under the supervision of Kakashi.

"No no, we're going to have dinner soon, invite her to stay," Mikoto soothed coming out from her hiding position. The woman smiled happily at the little couple.

"But it's…" Itachi took Kyoko's hand. He began to reach down for Kyoko's shoes.

"Invite her to stay," his mother said through her teeth and her annoyed smile. Itachi stopped letting out a sigh. He placed his other hand on top of Kyoko's. He smiled tenderly at Kyoko.

"Would you like to stay?"

"Yes," Kyoko whispered. Yet, Kyoko had a secret that she was hiding from him. Kyoko had been there earlier and had only left briefly to grab a couple of things for his mother. Kyoko's ear twitched as she heard the pounding feet of a child. Kyoko's hand tightened around Itachi's. She had only seen Sasuke in passing over the years. Even when the Uchiha family attended her recital, Sasuke was in bed and had a baby sitter.

"He's nice," Itachi whispered.

"But…" Kyoko muttered. The boy was in front of them. His big smile only dashed slightly.

"Who is she?!" Sasuke demanded pointing a finger at her. Sasuke could feel that she was different from all of his brother's friends. Itachi was holding her close unlike the other girl, Megumi, who frequented their home. Itachi smiled down at Kyoko.

"This is Kyoko-hime, the Flower of the Leaf Village," Itachi soothed. Gently he nuzzled Kyoko's cheek. Kyoko blushed slightly smiling up at him. Sasuke grumbled quietly, something was strange, and he didn't want to compete with this girl.

"So she's a princess?" Sasuke growled.

"Be kind Sasuke. Yes she is. She's very kind," Itachi answered. He removed his hands from Kyoko's wrapping his right one around her waist. He gave it a squeeze.

"It's nice to meet you Sasuke-kun," Kyoko mustered still blushing. She could feel Itachi pull her even closer. He gave her side a squeeze again. She wasn't sure what he was trying to tell her this time. She put her hand on his trying to get it off her waist.

"Hello…" Sasuke answered suspiciously. Itachi was never this relaxed around anyone else besides his best friend Shisui and the family.

"I was going to introduce you to her soon. Kyoko-hime is a very important person to me and I hope she becomes very important to the whole family as well." Itachi nuzzled her again. Kyoko blushed looking away.

"She doesn't look happy about it," Sasuke accused his finger still pointed at Kyoko. His eyebrows furrowed jealously.

"No, she is. She's embarrassed. Sasuke, I'm not going to tell you again to be kind," Itachi scolded. Sasuke flinched looking away. He didn't like where this was going.

"Dinner," their mother called out. Sasuke ran off ready to join his parents. Itachi took her in sitting her at the table.

"Kyoko-hime did you tell Itachi you were staying the night?" Fugaku asked. Kyoko shuttered, she was getting to that but…Sasuke had distracted her. She shook her head no. Looking up Fugaku locked eyes with his oldest son. "How was the mission?"

"It was successful," Itachi replied sitting next to Kyoko. Sasuke pouted, Itachi was consumed with this girl. Sasuke was looking for this time to be with his brother without any distractions. Kyoko needed to leave and come back never.

"Sasuke behave," Fugaku ordered. "Kyoko-hime is a guest in our home. Now Kyoko-hime." Sasuke shirked down, everyone seemed to like this mystery girl, yet how come he had never seen her before?

"Yes?" Kyoko chimed.

"My wife told me that you have a mission soon," Fugaku mustered.

"Yes. I am to bring a scroll to a local lord, nothing too hard." Itachi looked at Kyoko dismayed. Before he had left, Kyoko had informed him about her mission, he had urged her to reject it but…she obviously had other plans.

"This…" Itachi began, "Don't be…"

"What is it Itachi?" Mikoto soothed.

"This will be the first time Kyoko-hime will be unescorted by her guards. There will be no protection from…" Itachi quickly silenced himself. Speaking of the Fourth Hokage's enemies was a bit of a taboo.

"I'll be fine Itachi-kun," Kyoko said with a smile. "It's an D rank mission." Kyoko looked to Sasuke seeing him bored and upset. "Sasuke-kun, what did you do today?" Sasuke flinched caught off guard. He looked to his guest shocked.

"Nothing really, I just wanted my brother home," Sasuke answered.

"I promise I'm going to just go straight to bed after this. So you get to play with Itachi-kun all night." Kyoko smiled gently. Itachi let out a small sigh. Kyoko wasn't taking this mission seriously. The dinner progressed and Itachi stomached his worry about Kyoko.

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-hime," Itachi whispered getting in her bed. Ever since the Fourth Hokage passed away, he was told that he could not sleep in her bed but, he did it anyways. He liked it, this closeness, was something that he couldn't explain. He felt like he could connect with her more closely. And for some reason this felt right. She stirred looking back at him.<p>

"Yeah?" Kyoko yawned.

"I'm worried," Itachi muttered pulling himself close.

"So am I…" Kyoko whispered. She rolled over towards him resting her head under his. Itachi had told her in the past that he was soothed by her ears brushing up against his chin.

"Miyana-chan, I won't be able to come with you."

"I'll be alright but…I have an uneasy feeling as well," Kyoko muttered.

"Whatever happens, I want you to know that I love you," Itachi whispered into her hair. He wrapped his arms around her placing one hand on the back of her head. He inhaled the scent of her hair as he held on.

"I love you too," Kyoko whispered. The next morning she woke up alone. Itachi had to run back to his room before he got into serious trouble. She showered and dressed and joined Fugaku in the kitchen.

"Good morning Fugaku-san," Kyoko said sweetly.

"Itachi and Sasuke went out to get some bread. They should be back soon." Fugaku answered. "I want to thank you for what you did last night. Sasuke can be a bit of a handful at times especially when it comes to his brother."

"It's not a problem."

"My son has every right to worry. You need to be prepared for anything," Fugaku said sternly.

"I will," Kyoko answered. She looked out the window worriedly

"There's nothing wrong with being worried," Fugaku answered.

"Oh hello grandbaby maker!" Mikoto cooed. "Itachi said that you were sleeping, or I'd have sent you out on this little excursion too!" Kyoko blushed.

"Mikoto," Fugaku grumbled.

"Oh hush," Mikoto chuckled. "You wouldn't want her for a daughter-in-law?" She smiled at her stern husband knowing that he wouldn't answer in front of the girl. But he had just as much excitement as she did. Itachi was a loner, and the fact that he was interested in at least one person of the opposite sex was a reason to celebrate.

"She'd be a wonderful daughter-in-law." Kyoko pulled her lips together in a strange frown. She wasn't sure how to respond. She wasn't sure if smiling would make her conceited but frowning made it seem like she was unhappy. She tried smiling but all she could do was wriggle in embarrassment. Her face turned a dark crimson. She covered her ears bashfully. Mikoto giggled placing a hand on Kyoko's head.

"Even if you don't marry our son we will always love you. You have such a profound influence on our son. We're glad that he had a chance to meet you." Mikoto smiled loving at her. Fugaku was looking away, he wasn't one for sappiness but he agreed with his wife's words.

"Um…Mom," Itachi muttered. He was equally as red in the face. Sasuke just looked between his brother and his friend. _She's not just a friend…she's more special to Nii-san…_Sasuke thought. Grabbing his brother's sleeve Sasuke yanked on him quickly. Itachi looked down seeing confusion, hurt and anger in his brother.

"Nii-san…do you love her?" Sasuke demanded. Itachi hesitated as he looked back to Kyoko. She was anxiously waiting his answer. Itachi's lips curled up happily. He knew what he was doing was right.

"Yes…" Itachi muttered. "And, I hope you'll learn to love her too…"


	10. Chapter 10

Little Girl Lost Chapter 10

* * *

><p>Kakashi had bid Kyoko farewell two days before, he had his own mission to partake in. Kakashi had told her to stick to the roads, it may be slower but it was safer for her. Kyoko shivered, there was a cold feeling in the air. Something didn't feel right. Kyoko brushed it off as she began her trek. She couldn't cloud her minds with worries, she had to keep it clear. They thought she was strong enough to escape her father's enemies…she had to prove them right. Closing her eyes Kyoko allowed her sensing ability to take over. There was no threats nearby, not even a vengeful ghost. Opening her eyes Kyoko listened in for anything unfamiliar, still nothing.<p>

The mission would only last a day, and she should arrive back in Konoha at least by 8pm, 10pm at the latest. She walked with a heightened sense of alert. She didn't understand why there was such a cold feeling in the air. Kyoko sped up, someone was watching her, she could feel it in her bones. Why couldn't she sense them? Kyoko ran under the tree canopy to a clearing. She couldn't hear anyone following her but something was strange. Keeping to Kakashi's word she kept to the road and by 3pm she had reached the Lord's home. She relinquished the scroll and headed back the other way. She ate while she walked to save time. She wanted to be back in the safety of the village. That nagging feeling was still churning in her stomach. If she kept a steady pace she'd be back in Konoha by 6pm. Kyoko walked at a fast pace for hours, but to her, it passed by like eons. As the sunset, Kyoko increased her speed to a jog. She needed to be back in Konoha before it was dark. Kyoko's ear twitched as she heard the slight tap of feet on wood. She came to a stop amplifying her sensing ability. _They're Konoha shinobi…but I can't shake this feeling…_Kyoko thought. There were 8 of them and they were quickly closing in on her location. They descended from the trees forming a circle around her. _They're ANBU…but something's different,_ Kyoko thought. She took up a defensive stance looking at the masked men and women. She didn't like this.

"Miyana Namikaze?" one muttered. _Only the Elders and Kakashi know that my real first name was placed on my adoption papers_, Kyoko thought.

"Who wants to know?!" Kyoko snapped. The head agent raised his hand quickly. She heard the ninja behind her move to knock her out. She tried to move to the trees yet a hand had grabbed her by the hair yanking her back towards him. She let out a scream as she thrashed. She began to panic, why would ANBU want her. Remembering her training Kyoko used the weight of her opponent to throw him off balance. She escaped his grasp getting up into the tree canopy. Kyoko gasped as shuriken came her way. She countered them with her own. _What are they doing?! They're really serious about this!_ Kyoko thought. Kyoko jumped through the trees trying to make a desperate attempt to get to Konoha.

"She's quick…" the masked men grumbled. _I have to inform Lord Hiruzen!_ Kyoko thought. Kyoko halted as the men appeared ahead of her.

"You're in ANBU. What do you want from me?!" Kyoko demanded. Angrily Kyoko began to pull the water out of the nearby plants. Kyoko swarmed the agents crashing water over their heads forcing them to disperse. Sensing an agent behind her Kyoko engulfed his head in water. The man convulsed as he tried to escape his prison. "If you value your life you'll stop this!" Kyoko pulled water from the ground grabbing the agents. Tensing Kyoko allowed her symbols to spread over her body. She had learned that this was the only way for her to combine wind and water to form ice. She wanted to freeze them in place so she could run to Lord Hiruzen. There was no reason for Konoha ANBU to attack her and Lord Hiruzen was too kind to test her in such a way. Yet, if they were attacking her, then they were her enemy…and the only way to deal with the enemy was to subdue them, even if it meant death. Sensing that things were getting out of their control, they quickly subdued Kyoko with a sleeping powder bomb. _I can't…inha…_Kyoko thought as things became hazy. The symbols dissipated and the little bit of ice that had formed thawed rapidly. Kyoko's arms fell like dead weight. The water soon dropped to the ground freeing everyone in her grasp. Her eyes slid shut and she lost her balance falling towards the ground. She was caught quickly, they were ordered to not leave any visible marks on her.

"Lets get her to Danzo before they become suspicious." Kyoko was thrown over a shoulder as the eight returned to their base. They were to capture her without a struggle, they failed. Kyoko was brought to Root's inner chambers.

"I imagine that it didn't take too much effort," Danzo chuckled.

"No, a Genin wasn't too much trouble." Kyoko was thrown on the floor. "I don't know if this counts as a Kekki Genkai but that water ability is annoying." The girl heaved quietly completely subdued.

"You know what to do. Give her a sedative. I don't want her waking up anytime soon," Danzo snapped.

"When we return her…what if she's attacked by Minato-sama's enemies?"

"Sometimes sacrifices have to be made. It would be a necessary tragedy."

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-hime," a voice called out. It was Shisui Uchiha. He watched her wander aimlessly for a few minutes. Itachi had asked him to look for her if she hadn't returned by 8:30pm. The younger Uchiha had to run errands with his father. "What are you doing Princess?" She rambled incoherently. <em>Poison?<em> Shisui thought. Her eyes were rolling around in her head not focusing on anything in particular. He tilted her head forward only to find her unable to support the weight. "Kyoko-hime, are you okay?" Shisui asked. She twitched moving her head forward. Hazily she made eye contact with Shisui.

"They came for me…" Kyoko whispered as she passed out.

* * *

><p>She heard Itachi's voice in the background, he was talking to Lord Hiruzen. There was a strange urgency in his voice. He was worried, but about what? Kyoko's eyes opened, she still felt groggy. Looking around she saw the four walls of a hospital room. She twitched her ears, they felt free of their normal binding. She reach up towards her ears, she wanted to make sure that she wasn't imagining things.<p>

"You're awake," Itachi gasped. He took that hand. "What happened?! Shisui found you wandering."

"Shhhh Itachi-kun. Let her readjust," Lord Hiruzen mustered. He laid a hand on the boy's shoulder to calm him.

"I…I can't remember…I was surrounded…and then…there was Shisui," Kyoko muttered.

"By who?!" Itachi demanded. Itachi stretched her hand closer to him. She let out a slight yelp. Kyoko rubbed her inner elbow. Hiruzen noticed the small red scab. _A needle prick, Orochimaru… _Hiruzen thought.

"I don't know…I couldn't see their faces. They wore cloaks," Kyoko muttered. Itachi helped her into a sitting position. Hiruzen closed his eyes, Danzo must have been involved as well. Itachi sat on her bed wrapping his arms around her. She was safe and that's all that mattered.

"I'm glad that Shisui found you," Itachi muttered. He placed his forehead on hers rocking her in his arms.

"I'll see to it that we find who did this to you. Itachi-kun, take care of her," Hiruzen answered placing his hand on the boy's head. He left quietly so Kyoko could get more sleep.

* * *

><p>"What…?!" Kyoko gasped. She had been discharged from the hospital hours later and summoned by the Hokage.<p>

"I think it would be best for you to stay unguarded on missions," Hiruzen suggested.

"But…what about what happened?!" Kyoko demanded. She didn't want to go out without her guards. Life was so fragile, she could've been killed and worst she didn't know what was done to her.

"Yes, I think we should be wary, but Kyoko-hime, you have to learn how to survive on your own. I believe that it would be in your best interest to stick with Itachi when going on missions, but you can't allow your guards to be a crutch."

"But, something happened. They either injected me with something or they took something out of me."

"Yes, but if we let that stop us then you will never progress as a Shinobi. Now take the rest of the day off," Hiruzen answered. Kyoko bowed to the Hokage before leaving his office. She walked outside meeting up with Itachi. They walked to her home in silence. She made some tea before sitting down at the table.

"Itachi-kun…I think it's about time I teach you more about me," Kyoko mustered. She looked away from him. _I don't want to tell him because I know it will cause him to worry…_Kyoko thought. She sighed rubbing her hands together. " My full real name is Miyana Kin, High Priestess of the Luponian Kingdom. You know that I can transform freely into a wolf. You know all of this already." Itachi moved closer to her placing his hands on her cheeks. He pulled her ribbons off tenderly.

"Yes…" Itachi whispered. Kyoko looked away from Itachi seemingly ashamed. Itachi moved her head back towards his. He smiled tenderly at Kyoko. "No matter what people think, I think you're beautiful. You shouldn't be ashamed of your body."

"Continuing on…I have unique abilities. I can sometimes foresee the future and I can look back into the past with seals. I can see ghosts, hear they cries and pleas for help. They call on me…when I was younger it was hard for me to drown out the voices. I would talk to them, ramble about what was ailing them, and in the quiet of my room, I'd help them. The reason why I can drown them out now is that I can control my level of sensing. Unlike Papa, who would sense when he needed to, I'm always sensing. Yet when I was four, I couldn't control how much chakra that I was using so I was sensing at the highest level. I can now control my chakra and my sensing level so I can only see and hear the spirits who are truly in need at the lowest level. I didn't tell Papa this at all…"

"Miyana-chan," Itachi muttered. "It's okay."

"Itachi-kun, I…"

"Let me help you," Itachi soothed. He pulled her close to him. "Let me suffer for you."

"Itachi-kun no!" Kyoko pushed him away. "No! I won't let you do that!"

"Miyana-chan…?"

"No don't do that Itachi-kun. Please don't do that. I don't want you to suffer anymore! You can't do that, please don't do that," Kyoko begged. Itachi nodded. "I just want to tell someone all the details that I remember about what happened before I get too old and forget…"

"What…?" Itachi muttered.

"I tried to see the past…about what happened the day of my 3rd birthday but it's too painfully a memory. My mind suppresses my ability to see it." Kyoko rambled. "The morning of my third birthday my father took me from my room. It was bright…I remember it being sunny. I remember his hands always being warm and a smile equally as bright…but his face…I can't remember it. I was taken to the main chamber where my grandmother was. We performed some sort of ceremony it hurt a lot but I was instantly soothed when it was done. But my grandmother didn't get back up, she was dead. It alarmed my father, I guess this ceremony shouldn't have killed her. The guards began to fall dead. It was Shinobi and the Geldani that were killing them. I'm almost positive they were from Konoha. I vividly remember the green flak jackets and the red Uzumaki swirl. My father defended me from our intruders before calling in my mother. She took me away…as she ran away with me I saw my father fall. I don't know if he's dead. My mother took us through some secret passage ways." Kyoko closed her eyes putting her hands together. "I could hear the screams of everyone in the temple. They were being slaughtered." Kyoko's eyes watered. Itachi sat next to her hollow eyed and stiff.

"I..I understand. I…I was there…during the Third Shinobi World War…there was death…death everywhere." His hands tremor on his knees. He could recall the stench, the bloodshed, the bodies, they were so vivid in his mind. Kyoko tensed, she didn't know about this part of Itachi. She looked at him in a dismayed awe. She always felt like they shared something in common but she never thought it would be this.

"Itachi-kun…let's stop here," Kyoko muttered. She got out of her chair shuffling her feet to him. From behind she wrapped her arms around him. She rubbed his cheek as she brought her head close. "We'll finish this another day."

"Okay…" he whispered.

* * *

><p>"Well well," Megumi purred. Kyoko was stretching her legs out in ballet. "I'm improving much faster than you. It took me only six months to get in this class. How much private tutoring have you had? And it took you this long to get into this class?"<p>

"Just leave me alone Megumi-chan," Kyoko mustered. Even though it had been three days she couldn't get the thought of Itachi's pain out of her head. He was so strongly affect by war and blood.

"Oh, sorry that I broke the princess's concentration!" Megumi teased.

"I said leave me alone," Kyoko snapped. The girl stood up angrily. "I'm not worried about your petty misgivings. Just leave me alone."

"What has your tights all in a knot?" Megumi demanded.

"Back off Megumi-chan," Kyoko growled. Her anger was boiling over. She could feel hear the water in the pipes inside the walls. It was running quickly through the tubing reacting to her emotions.

"What's wrong fake princess?" Megumi teased.

"I said….LEAVE…ME…" Kyoko growled.

"Kyoko-hime," the teacher Assistant snapped. "What are you doing to our star pupil?!" Anika had taken ill and the teaching Assistant Kotono was taking over all of the classes and Kyoko's private tutoring. Yet the woman had a rigid idea on who could be a ballet dancer. The woman thought that Megumi fit into that mold.

"I humbly disagree. Megumi-chan has been antagonizing me," Kyoko replied her anger calming down.

"Megumi-chan would not do something like that. Now someone like you needs to be careful about causing uproars."

"If I may, what do you mean someone like me?" Kyoko asked.

"I think you know," Kotono sneered. The woman placed a hand on Megumi's shoulder. Kyoko bit her tongue as her anger boiled up inside her. Kushina's spirit was rising above Minato's. Kyoko could never guarantee what would happen when her red headed mother came out of her. Yet she tried her hardest to keep a level head, she didn't like being brash, it was ill-fitting of a Shinobi.

"No I don't know," Kyoko said in a low simmer, "what do you mean 'someone like me?' Please tell me."

"Let's start class," Kotono replied clapping to gather the other girls' attention. Yet everyone was paying attention. Everyone's eyes were on the scene that was unfolding. The Flower of the Leaf Village was turning red with anger. Kyoko was breathing heavily. "Kyoko-hime, if you can't control yourself I'm going to throw you out."

"Tell me what you mean by 'someone like me?!'" Kyoko demanded. The water in the pipes began to creak in the walls. Kyoko could feel her symbols etching into her palms. She had to relax or she was going to do something that she'd regret.

"GET OUT," Kotono screamed. Kyoko closed her eyes relaxing her hands. Her face calmed down.

"Good day to you all, from a person like me," Kyoko whispered. She gathered her things leaving the studio. Megumi smirked, Kyoko was soon to be less than the star pupil. Outside Kyoko let her tears to fall. She walked through the streets not caring if anyone saw her tears. She brushed past Genma not even noticing him.

"Princess," Genma cooed grabbing her by the shoulder. "That's an ugly expression to wear on such a beautiful face."

"Good day Genma-san…Genma-sempai," Kyoko mustered.

"What's with you?"

"I think I'm unfit for being a dancer. Kotono-san…" Kyoko looked down biting her lip so she wouldn't cry.

"She's a terrible person. So don't think anything of it. I saw a flyer for your recital on my door step after I got back from my mission. I know you're good. You put your heart and soul into everything that you do. You have one of the sincerest hearts out there," Genma soothed.

"But…I love dance…I don't want to quit," Kyoko answered.

"Don't, just one up her. You're quite fiendish when you want to be. Now you be a good girl. I have to go see Lord Hiruzen, but I'll be around if you need some oneliners for the hag," Genma replied. She watched him go but that didn't make her happy.

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-hime, why don't you show me what you've been…" Itachi began. Kyoko wasn't in the mood. She was a little too quiet. Playfully he pulled her close. Kyoko didn't budge. They were in the Uchiha District. Kyoko had convinced Itachi that it was better for her to come visit him then for him to visit her.<p>

"Itachi-kun…I want to look like you," Kyoko whispered. It felt shameful for her to even say it. Itachi groaned, not this again. She always had such a hard time accepting herself for who she was.

"Then you won't be Kyoko-hime. Come on," Itachi soothed. He pulled her to her feet running her to a nearby water trough. "What do you see?"

"Darkness," Kyoko whined. Itachi's facial expressions soured. He splashed his hand in the water disrupting their images. They stood in silence as the images stabilized.

"What do you see?"

"A dark girl." Itachi sighed looking up at the sky. He had to try a different approach.

"What do you see when you look at me?"

"I handsome boy. Who fits in…who doesn't have to…" Itachi kissed her cheek tenderly. "DON'T DO THAT!" Kyoko stamped her feet embarrassed. Her face flushed excitedly.

"What do you see when you look at us?" Itachi asked. He gently rest her head on hers. Kyoko smiled at the image staring back at them.

"Happiness," Kyoko mumbled.

"Then, it's settled."

"I don't understand."

"You do have dark skin." Itachi compared his arm to hers. "But that doesn't mean that you're not beautiful or less than a person. I see you. I won't imagine you with no skin or as some variation of what I look like. Your white hair is as much a part of you as your dark skin. And remember Miyana-chan, Shodai Hokage had dark skin. Look what became of him. He founded this entire Village. I'm sure that he didn't allow this to bother him." Kyoko sulked.

"But Itachi-kun."

"I asked what you saw, and you said happiness. When anyone says something about your skin…just think of this happiness." Itachi smiled. His smile faded as he took her hands in his. "I know I don't know what this is like. I don't know how it feels to be discriminated against this way…but whenever you need a shoulder, a hug, anything I'll be there. I don't like seeing you like this. Let me be your armor," Itachi soothed. "You're a beautiful girl. I remember when I first met you…I was taken by your beauty, and that little sparkle in your eye. Then you began to talk and I…" He blushed looking away. "Lets head back." He pulled her away from the trough.

"And what?" Kyoko pulled her arm away from him. Itachi's face had already bounced back to the stoic look she had grown to know. He smiled looking back at Kyoko. He looked at their footsteps. Unless they were walking side by side, Kyoko would step in his footsteps as if they were one person.

"That brain," Itachi chuckled poking her forehead. "It's…well, you know." He smiled tenderly at her.

"You speak so cryptically!" Kyoko groaned.

"So do you. It's quirk of smart people," Itachi teased.

"This is why we're friends. We can insult each other without getting mad," Kyoko replied.

"Well that's not the only reason."

"What?"

"That's not the only reason why we're friends. We're breaking boundaries. Luponian and Shinobi alike," Itachi answered. He touched her cheek teasingly cocking his head to the right. Kyoko mirrored his actions with a tender smile. "There's something wrong…I can tell by how you're acting." Kyoko pursed her lips with a sigh.

"Itachi-kun, in nine years I am to be married. I'm worried…"

"Why? Are you afraid that I won't propose?" Itachi teased.

"Itachi-kun…what if…something bad happens." Kyoko's hand fell from his cheek.

"What's got you worried all of a sudden?" Itachi asked.

"I-It's nothing…"

"Miyana-tan!" Itachi cooed in a soothing voice. He placed both hands on her cheeks pulling her head close. He kissed her forehead tenderly. "We'll get through it."

"I….I don't want to get married so early! But I have to…" Kyoko mustered.

"Miyana-tan, whenever you're ready, I'm ready," Itachi pulled her close kissing the top of her head. Her ears flickered. "Now as you always tell me, stop worrying so much."

"Yes," Kyoko whispered.

"Come on Miyana-tan! First you were sad about your skin and now that you're going to get married. I think you should cherish these things. We have very fortunate lives Miyana-chan. We're fortunate to have each other," Itachi smiled at her tenderly. "Don't forget that." Kyoko blushed as he rubbed her cheek gently. Itachi blushed as well feeling something between them. He slowly moved closer to her.

"Itachi!" his mother called out. She could contain her excitement, Itachi was going to kiss her! Itachi jerked away accidentally yanking on Kyoko's hair.

"OW!" she chirped.

"Sorry," Itachi whispered he reached for her head but jerked it away as he saw his mother approaching.

"Oh, don't stop. Your first kiss is going to be so magical," Mikoto cooed.

"I was taking Kyoko-hime home," Itachi said tonelessly. He separated himself from Kyoko.

"Kiss," Mikoto cooed putting her hands together. "Come on." Mikoto's eyes were twinkling excitedly. Kyoko looked away from Itachi unwilling and unmotivated. Trying to please his mother, Itachi leaned over to kiss the girl. Without having to look, Kyoko pushing Itachi's face away. He heard her exhale quickly; Kyoko would always do this when she was angered or annoyed.

"No," Kyoko mumbled.

"Oh, I'm sorry dear! I ruined your moment!" Mikoto placed her hand on Itachi's shoulder bashfully. "Go take her home, dinner will be ready in an hour." His mother left soon after. Awkward seconds passed by. Kyoko wouldn't make eye contact with Itachi. He frowned puzzled, was she ashamed? Letting out a sigh, Kyoko held out her hand to him. She still wouldn't look at him but he knew what she wanted. He took it with a smile. She liked holding hands when he walked her home, particularly since they would see Megumi. And of course, Megumi would get upset, Kyoko would smirk slightly as Itachi would defend her honor. Yet today was slightly different. Megumi just smirked at them as they walked by. No antagonistic words or half-hearted kindness just silence. Itachi made eye contact with Megumi before closing his eyes.

"Don't worry…I'm going to kiss her. Just you wait." Itachi replied within earshot of Megumi. He let out a small laugh as Megumi grunted angrily. Kyoko smiled as she held on tighter to Itachi's hand.


	11. Chapter 11

Little Girl Lost Chapter 11: Following Shisui

* * *

><p>"I win!" Kyoko giggled pushing Itachi into the dirt. She continued to laugh as she held a kunai to his throat. Itachi sighed as the girl got off of him. It had been a year since the "incident" and she had only gotten stronger. It was something Itachi thought of regularly. She didn't act any differently and her progress was not suspicious.<p>

"Yes you won again," Itachi sighed. The nine-year-old girl was beaming happily above him. Even with his Sharingan, Kyoko still had more wins than him. She was quicker at weaving signs and from a tip from Gai-san, she knew how to avoid locking eyes with him. She held her hand out to him with a slight giggle. Itachi smiled reaching out to the hand.

"I told you I was a strong princess!" she continued to laugh as the boy took her hand and stood up. Itachi looked to the sky with a slight shrug.

"I can't believe you've been a Chunin for about a year…I'm a little jealous," Itachi answered. He brushed the dirt off his pants. His father although very pleased with Kyoko's performance in the Chunin Exams, was extremely disappointed with his son. As the clan's heir, there were things to be expected of him and failing the Chunin Exams the first time around was not acceptable.

"Don't worry Itachi-kun! You'll become Chunin this time around." His gaze was still to the sky as if he was reflecting upon something. Itachi had been distant throughout their sparring and Kyoko could tell by how he grabbed her hand, that something was bothering him. She let out a slight whimper rubbing his thumb gently. He wouldn't look her in the eyes. She let out a louder whimper.

"Miyana-chan," Itachi said softly. "You're leaving to visit your home village right?" No matter where she went and no matter whom she was with, Itachi became anxious whenever she left the Village. He had good reason, the first time she left the village she was to never return. He never knew when it would be the last time seeing her.

"Yeah," Kyoko sighed.

"Don't forget about me," Itachi mustered.

"Itachi-kun…" Kyoko sighed. She hugged her friend soothingly. She rubbed his back slowly. "I could never forget someone as kind and loving and sweet and strong as you." Itachi blushed as she pulled away. "Don't ever forget that."

"How many days until you leave?" Itachi asked.

"Let's see…" she began to count the days in her head. She released his hand putting a finger to her mouth as she pondered, "…ten… give or take when Jiraiya-sensei decides to get here." Itachi took her hand back in his.

"How long will you be gone?" Itachi asked.

"About four to eight months. Hopefully I'll be back before you become Chunin so I can kick your butt one more time." Itachi's hand went clammy. He really didn't like it when she was gone for long periods of time. "Hey you're too young to have all these anxieties!"

"I don't want you to die! I want…" Itachi quickly silenced himself. He was letting his emotions get the better of him. "Miyana-chan…you understand right? And to be gone for that long period of time…you're going to be looking for Talasu aren't you?!" Kyoko took his other hand looking deeply into his worried eyes. Kyoko had been talking about the God a lot lately.

"Yes," Kyoko answered.

"Miyana-chan this is not the time to do that! Talasu is too powerful you know that!" Itachi growled. His grip tightened around her warm hands. Kyoko broke free interlacing her fingers.

"That's why I'm taking Jiraiya-sensei. Itachi-kun…Itachi-chan, I understand why you feel this way but we all have a place in the fabric of time. We all have a role to play and this…this is mine," Kyoko soothed as she placed her hand on his cheek. She could feel that his breathing had increased. He was angered and scared, Itachi always tried to shield her from fighting. He always intervened when he could so she couldn't get hurt. He looked away from Kyoko, she was right but he still couldn't take it. Kyoko needed to be here where he could keep a close eye on her. "Itachi remember I did get promoted to Chunnin, so don't wor…It's Shisui-kun." She noticed the boy walking through the forest with another person. It looked like a girl. Itachi turned around seeing the two figures disappear into the distance.

"Who was with him?" Itachi asked.

"I don't know…he hasn't been spending too much time with you lately. Is thatyou're your anxieties are up?" Itachi looked away from Kyoko. She smiled rubbing his cheek. "Let's follow him," Kyoko chuckled. Itachi nodded. They followed after the boy staying several feet behind. "How old is Shisui-kun now?"

"He's fifteen."

"Woah, really?"

"The clan theorizes that he will be the last one to be the last one in an arranged marriage," Itachi rambled.

"What?"

"Mostly everyone in our clan has been in an arranged even my parents."

"Really but your parents…"

"The marriage was arranged. The Uchiha Clan has been doing this for decades. Yet to arrange marriages has changed slightly. Typically when the parents notice a strong bond between two children…well teenagers or young adults, they then "arrange" their marriage. It's like modern day courtship with parent intervention."

"No offense but that's weird."

"Somewhat, but your culture does arranged marriages too,"

"Yeah…but I don't know if they're still doing it now. But I see what you mean. I shouldn't be judgemental. Sorry," Kyoko answered.

"It's fine Miyana-chan."

"So why is Shisui-kun the last one?"

"Because, he's powerful…they want someone to complement him."

"Are they changing this because of me? Your parents I mean,"

"I'm not sure why they're changing…But, I'm glad…It's a terrible practice anyways." Kyoko looked to him seeing a worried face. Carefully she wrapped her arms around Itachi. "I love you."

"Mi-Miyana-chan," Itachi muttered blushing heavily.

"Itachi-kun is loving, so saying I love you…is the best phrase for Itachi-kun," Kyoko chuckled. He continued to blush as she held on tightly to him. "But Itachi-kun you need to stop worrying so much."

"BUT!"

"No But's Itachi-kun!"

"Miyana-chan…"

"What?"

"I guess you don't know about this…I think we're close enough where we don't need to use honorifics anymore."

"But why the change?"

"Because I love you too," Itachi teased. Kyoko blushed releasing Itachi quickly.

"You sure know how to bounce back quickly."

"So how about it Miyana-chan?"

"Sure Itachi…"

"Okay Miyana…but I still think it would be a good idea if I called you Kyoko-hime around everyone."

"And I'll continue to call you Itachi-kun,"

"No, just Itachi. You're Princess Miyana Namikaze…it would be disrespectful if I called you just Kyoko or Miyana."

"I'm so confused…." Kyoko sighed smacking her head.

"Does Kakashi-san not teach you these things?"

"It's not that he doesn't teach me these things…he's just, not around to teach me these things. He's in ANBU after all and the Hokage…" as her voice tapered away Kyoko looked to the ground dismayed. She really wanted Kakashi to be around. He was one of the few people who were truly kind to her. "YET!" Kyoko perked up, "I always look forward to his return!"

"Also…we've lost track of Shisui," Itachi replied.

"Oooh, right I guess we were following him."

"Yes…but you can smell him can't you?"

"Of course! His scent is faint here. We should double back."

"Alright, we should check Naka River. If he's this far out…then that's where he'd be heading," Itachi answered.

"Let's run," Kyoko replied. _She really likes practicing her sprints…and as we get older, I can barely keep up with her. She's really advancing at a quicker rate than I expected_, Itachi thought smiling at his companion. He liked how they rarely fought and that they understood each other inside and out. If she was cold, he knew by her body language if she wanted and/or needed his jacket or an arm to cuddle up in. They understood the pains of war.

"Can I carry you?"

"WHAT?! Noooo," Kyoko squeaked.

"Come on Miyana," Itachi chuckled. "You never let me spoil you."

"How is that spoiling?"

"I just thought it would be fun."

"How is it fun?"

"You never know until we try it,"

"This sounds like something Jiraiya-sensei would write." Kyoko giggled before becoming bashful. She remembered how Jiraiya liked to sandwich himself between the breasts of two women and drink until he thought he was young. It was awkward for her as Jiraiya would spill to her a VERY PG version of what he'd write. Yet, Papa would tell her that the books were extremely naughty.

"You've read his books."

"Only _The Tale of the Utterly Gutsy Ninja_. I read it all the time. It's about a ninja who never gives up no matter the fight! I wish to be a ninja like that…and a Luponian priestess like that too."

"Princess," Itachi began, "…do you still want to get married?"

"Ah! What brought this on?" Kyoko asked. "Do you realize that we talk about this every time we're together? Marriage is a weird thing for nine year olds to think about."

"Nothing in particular…it's just that the people of Konoha are…well do you? You'll be married in 8 years roughly, that's not a lot of time."

"Yes, I mean yeah sure. Itachi, are you okay?"

"Yeah, you keep telling me not to worry so I stopped myself."

"Well now I'm worried. What are the people of Konoha doing?"

"Don't think about it Miyana. Why do you still want to get married?"

"A promise is a promise."

"Miyana don't be naïve."

"It is, and I love you, Itachi-chan!"

"Miyana…" Itachi sighed shaking his head.

"Would you rather have me say I don't love you? And that I don't want to marry you?"

"OF COURSE NOT!" Itachi snapped. He flinched realizing his behavior.

"It's okay Itachi," Kyoko giggled.

"Kyoko-hime! Itachi! Wha-What are you two doing out here?" Shisui asked rushing to them.

"Stuff I guess, what are you doing out here Shisui-kun?!" Kyoko teased.

"Heading home, that's where you two should be heading!"

"You're not as calm as you normally are. Also who was your friend?" Kyoko asked.

Shisui laughed, "Friend? You two! I mean friends…two means plural, you two are my friends. Aahh, let's get going. Actually you two go ahead. I need to finish something."

"Are you meeting with a fellow Uchiha?" Itachi asked. Only the Uchiha knew of this place. The clan had become wary of Kyoko "trespassing" on this space but no one challenged this since Itachi was the heir.

"No! I'm here alone, no one's with me." He laughed again scratching the back of his head. "Come on you two, lets get going!" He grabbed Kyoko's arm and Itachi's arm pulling them along. "You two shouldn't be out this far!"

"I thought you had something to do," Itachi teased.

"I'll come back. You two should be home. Kyoko-hime I thought you were going to bake some cookies for Itachi," Shisui asked.

"Yes," Kyoko answered. "You know you smell a little different."

"Oh…I tried a new fabric softener," Shisui answered.

"I've never seen you so frazzled," Itachi noted.

"Frazzled…I'm not frazzled!" Shisui laughed again. "You two ask so many questions."

"It doesn't make sense why you're out here. And you can let go of us," Itachi replied.

"I thought I'd escort you two home. I want to make sure we get to Kyoko's house safely!" He quickly took them to Kyoko's house. "Now I'll see you two later." He disappeared in a puff of smoke. Itachi looked at Kyoko who had the same devilish smile.

"Wanna follow him?" Itachi asked.

"Thought you'd never ask." They scoured the village eventually finding Shisui at the Yamanaka Flower Shop. The younger couple hid behind a set of trashcans as Shisui wandered around in the shop. "This is interesting."

"Yeah," Itachi chuckled. Soon enough, Shisui had a bouquet of flowers. Itachi stiffened, "let's move." Kyoko nodded, yet they were not fast enough.

"You guys sure are baking a lot of cookies." Shisui asked from behind them. Kyoko let out a gasp.

"Who are the flowers for?" Kyoko asked.

"A person."

"WHO?" Kyoko asked.

"That's none of your business. Now go home you two."

"You've been acting strangely."

"Can't a guy buy some flowers for his mom?"

"Yeah," Kyoko sighed. "Come on Itachi…he's not doing anything suspicious." She took his hand pulling him along. After they were a significant distance away. "We'll follow him tomorrow." Itachi smiled.

"Hey! Miyana-chan, would it be okay if I stayed at your house tonight?"

"BUT! Itachi you couldn't _possibly_ be away from Sasuke-kun for that long!" Kyoko teased. Itachi sighed shaking his head. He grabbed her shoulder looking her dead in the eye.

"I want to stay with you tonight." Kyoko blushed fiercely.

"U-Um." Itachi looked away blushing as well.

"I…I just thought you were lonely…" Itachi answered scratching the back of his head.

"But…what about clothes?" Kyoko asked.

"Ah, right," Itachi muttered. "I thought you needed help moving back into the Fourth Hokage's home. And-And I thought it would be nice to help you move things back in place." Still red Kyoko leaned over and gave Itachi a gentle kiss on the cheek. He jumped but soon touched the spot tenderly. He smiled slightly as he eyed Kyoko.

"OH! Is that my little man!" Mikoto called out to the two kids. Itachi and Kyoko's eyes met really quickly before they looked in opposite directions. Mikoto approached with the biggest of smiles. They always had something to hide whenever Mikoto came around. "I see you made him blush! And he made you blush. Did you propose? Itachi-chan~ you're too young for that, but I don't mind!" _Well I guess this is why we always talk about marriage…but we should try to talk about other things too. I don't just want to talk about the future, I want to talk about our pasts and our present,_ Kyoko thought.

"Hello Mikoto-san," Kyoko muttered.

"Oh how is my future daughter-in-law and grandbaby maker!" Mikoto asked hugging Kyoko tightly. The woman rubbed her cheek against Kyoko's. Itachi looked up with a silent groan, his mother loved the 'grandbaby maker' part more then the 'daughter-in-law.' His mother would do anything for a baby. Itachi has even heard her She loved them as much as she loved her own children. "You just get cuter and cuter as you get older! Oh I know you're going to have an hourglass figure when your hips and bust come in, BUT you're just so skinny! We need to fatten you up before you and Itachi start hav…!"

"Mom!" Itachi interrupted. The older woman stopped her assault releasing Kyoko from her motherly embrace. Sheepishly the mother blushed shifting excitedly from foot to foot.

"I'm sorry Itachi, I just get so excited when I see you two together! You know that. And you two were just so cute blushing together…I just saw your wedding in my mind, I just had to say something." She scratched the back of her head. "Where are you two headed?"

"Mom, Lord Third Hokage is letting Kyoko-hime move back into her old home…Can I stay with her tonight? I want to help move her in and make sure she's comfortable," Itachi asked, Kyoko tried to move away from him but he seized her hand.

"Itachi…" Kyoko muttered. _I see she's not using honorifics…I bet Itachi doesn't use –hime, when they're in private…_Mikoto noticed.

"Alright but Itachi, you two must sleep in two different beds okay? Promise me, Itachi," Mikoto ordered.

"I promise." He smiled tenderly squeezing Kyoko's hand.

* * *

><p>"Thank you," Kyoko muttered as she moved the boxes of her very old toys into her room. She walked out finding Itachi on the floor exhausted. She giggled as she leaned over him. His eyes were closed.<p>

"Don't worry about it." He looked into her blue eyes with a smile. He saw what many others didn't see, the warmth. She was called "Ice Princess" by many of their peers because of her sassy attitude. Kyoko's ears twitched and she jerked her head upwards. She ran to the nearest window looking out of it. She gasped dropping to the floor dramatically. She looked back at Itachi with a big smile.

"Shisui-kun is nearby," Kyoko whispered. "He's with a girl…and she has the flowers!" Itachi went to the window as well. Sitting up Itachi crawled to her. He placed his hand on her lower back looking just above the window ledge.

"That's Kaiya Uchiha," Itachi muttered leaning in close to Kyoko.

"Kaiya?" Kyoko asked. She looked back at him as he looked out at the pair.

"Yeah, she's a sweetheart but a little jittery," Itachi answered. "What are you doing?" Kyoko opened the window ever so slowly before jumping out. "Kyoko-hime!" She quickly confronted the duo. Shisui scratched the back of his head while Kaiya grabbed on to his arm. Itachi watched from the window as the three of them approached.

"They're dating," Kyoko chuckled proudly.

"Kyoko-hime don't jump out the window," Itachi scolded. Kyoko sighed rolling her eyes as Itachi let them in through the door. "Yes dearest _husband_." Itachi sighed shaking his head, Kyoko liked to call him that when she didn't agree with him.

"He likes to call her Miyana-chan when they're in private," Shisui said sweetly to his girlfriend. The woman whispered something back to Shisui causing the older boy to shrug. Kyoko skipped to Itachi wrapping her arms around his neck as she peered at Kaiya. She was about a half a foot shorter than Shisui. Her hair was a shoulder length dull black and it lacked the shine of the other Uchiha, but there was something distinct about it. Kyoko couldn't put her finger on it. Like what Itachi said…Kaiya seemed jittery, her eyes were shifting about taking in her new surroundings. She was holding on to Shisui's arm tightly. She wore a black and white plaid skirt and unlike the other Uchiha, she wore a black crop jacket with their clan's symbol on the back and a gray tank top.

"Shisui," Itachi muttered. He disconnected from Kyoko yet clung to her hand like a lovesick schoolboy.

"It's true…And he sleep talks about her all the time. Miyana-chan this…Miyana-chan that," Shisui teased.

"Shisui, that's not too nice," Kaiya whispered. Shisui looked to Kyoko seeing her classic puzzled face. Her head was slightly cocked to the left and her lips together in a puzzled pout. Shisui laughed at the odd couple, the stoic Itachi and the sassy Kyoko.

"He can take it Kaiya. Kyoko-hime, you'll like Kaiya. She's very sweet," Shisui answered.

"Shisui-kun, how come you couldn't just tell us?" Kyoko asked. It was strange, Shisui shared everything with Itachi, NOTHING was off limits. Itachi shushed her quickly, she had a big mouth sometimes.

"Well…we're not supposed to be dating," Shisui said with a sheepish chuckle. He scratched the back of his head. Kaiya looked down dismayed. His girlfriend pulled herself closer to him. "Her grandfather and mine decided that we should be married after her grandfather saved mine…and…it's a bit of a confusing story. Her parents and my parents agreed that this union should happen. Yet her parents died soon after they made this agreement, and her aunt became her legal guardian…her aunt thought that our 'engagement' should be null and void since we live in this era…So we've been secretly seeing each other."

"Why?" Kyoko asked sitting in front of her guests in awe of their story. She was so enthralled that she didn't even let go of Itachi's hand. Itachi pulled Kyoko to her feet. She was so childish in this sense. She'd always sit down to listen to a good story. He ushered his clansmen and his friend into the main room.

"I'm forbidden to see him." Kaiya pulled herself even closer. "My aunt thinks that an Uchiha as strong as Shisui should be with someone else…A-Andnd since he can be playful she sees him as a trouble-maker and bad boy…" Kaiya piped in.

"But I love her…My grandfather introduced us to each other when we were little kids…we saw each other off and on through the years and then about two years ago we really began to hit it off…and then…one thing led to another and now I'm with this beautiful sweet dango…" Kaiya looked up at him rolling her eyes disappointed. "…beautiful sweet girl…but dango is good too." Kaiya giggled slightly. "She laughs at all my dumb jokes. There's no way you can't love this girl."

"So that's why you were acting weird," Itachi pondered quietly.

"Yeah, but I have to take her home. Take her flowers away and store them in a vase in my crash of a bachelor with loving bachelorette pad." Kaiya smiled. "Oh no laugh? My jokes are not terrible enough then." He gently nuzzled her with a tenderness in his eyes. She gently kissed his lips. _This is how I want to be with Itachi when we get older_, Kyoko thought smiling wildly. Itachi knew that look, it was the same one that his mother had when she saw something she really liked, such as his eventual marriage.

"It was nice meeting you Kyoko-hime," Kaiya said with a bow. Kyoko frowned, she didn't like being elevated to this status of "superiority". She liked being a commoner, she liked being thought of as anyone else.

"I would love for you and Shisui-kun to just call me Miyana-chan when we're in private. I don't like to be called princess," Kyoko asked.

"Kyoko-hime," Itachi whispered.

"Oh quit it Itachi, you call her Miyana-chan," Shisui teased.

"Ah…How about we get to know each other and then we call you Miyana-chan," Kaiya suggested. Kyoko nodded slightly. She didn't like the idea, but she knew that Shisui and Kaiya would not agree.

"We'll see you two later," Shisui chuckled. "Be 'good' Itachi." Shisui winked at Itachi with a slight smirk. Itachi nodded his head, but Kyoko looked confused.

"Itachi?" Kyoko asked.

"Don't worry about it." They bid the couple goodbye going back to setting up Kyoko's home.

* * *

><p>"Itachi-kun," Kyoko mumbled snuggling against him as they sat on her couch. She was tired from moving boxes and tables. She didn't believe that her muscles would be so sore!<p>

"Time for bed Princess," Itachi whispered. Her eyes had slid shut and she had stopped moving.

"Yes dearest _husband_," Kyoko groaned. She didn't even open her eyes. Itachi watched as her body rise and fall as she fell asleep. He let her sleep for about ten minutes before waking her up. "Stop," she whined falling back asleep. Itachi chuckled poking her cheek tenderly.

"No…you're falling asleep."

"Okay, come on."

"I'm sleeping out here."

"Come on Itachi-kun…"

"Nope, I made a promise to my Mom, and to Shisui."

"But, we always sleep together," Kyoko whined.

"We're getting older…we can't," Itachi sighed.

"What do you mean?" Kyoko asked.

"My mother told me some things…we just can't sleep in the same bed anymore," Itachi answered. "Trust me I want to but…we're growing up Kyoko-hime…Miyana-chan, we can't stay children forever." Kyoko's ears twitched under ribbons. Itachi stood up going to Kyoko. He gently pulled the ribbons away. "But you know…nine years isn't too far away. I know you can wait until then." He tenderly laced her ribbons through her fingers.

"Can we at least sleep in here tonight? I'm not sure if I'm ready to be alone in this big house," Kyoko mustered.

"Okay…I promised my mother we'd sleep in separate rooms but tomorrow…that's going to happen anyways. So we'll sleep here. Miyana-chan, do you want to live with us?"

"But what about Kakashi-nii?" Kyoko asked.

"You're not living with him anymore. You're a well-to-do Chunnin you don't need the protection," Itachi answered. "But we'll defend you. We run the Police Force so you'll always have someone to watch over you. So what do you say?"

"No…I'd still be on my own…I've been waiting to live here for so long," Kyoko replied. They took thirty minutes to prepare for bed. Kyoko took the couch and Itachi the floor.

* * *

><p>I promise we'll go over Kyoko's chunin examination a little later.<p>

~WoofumsPup


	12. Chapter 12

Little Girl Lost Chapter 12

* * *

><p>"I'm pretty sure you're Minato's lovechild." Kyoko was sitting properly on the deck of their ship. They had followed a similar route to that of four years ago. She wore her hood over her head and relaxed her ears to not bring suspicion upon her. No one questioned them…although she heard a few whispers about belonging to Jiraiya to that she shuttered.<p>

"Jiraiya-sensei…" Kyoko sighed. Her shoulders fell with a shake of her head.

He cleared his throat, "As I was saying…you have a nice little break from ballet and music for a while."

"Yep! I guess I do…I'm going to miss it though…"

"So what do you want to say to the Queen."

Kyoko eyes narrowed, "Don't mess with my people." _I don't get to see this little girl look so serious_, Jiraiya thought with an amused smile. Jiraiya pushed her head down playfully.

"Okay…and what about Talasu."

"You'll need your sage mode."

"Hey…I think you're underestimating me."

"I made you this…" Kyoko dug in her bag pulling out a wooden tailsman. It had uneven edges and numerous scriptures etched into it. "…You will only be able to see him with natural energy. This took awhile."

"Oh okay little dork."

"Jiraiya-sensei, let's be serio…" Kyoko saw a young girl playing with her father. "…Papa…"

"Hey, Kyoko-chan,"

_Flashback_

* * *

><p><em>"I want to see the dolphins again," Kyoko squeaked with a smile. Yan watched the Hokage stand up walking away from them. Minato took her to the edge letting her look at the animals. "They're so happy!" He allowed her to support her weight by standing on the bars yet he kept his arms protectively wrapped around the little girl.<em>

_"Yeah," Minato chuckled._

_"I miss Itachi-kun," Kyoko muttered. "Itachi-kun would have liked them too."_

_"I'm sure he would have," Minato soothed rubbing her head through her hood. He placed his hands on the bar in front of her looking out at the ocean._

_"Daddy…why are your hands so big?" Kyoko asked placing hers on his left hand. She felt Minato's chest vibrate with his gentle laugh._

_"Because I'm big," Minato answered smiling down at her. **That makes sense?** Kyoko thought furrowing her brow._

"And are my hands little because I'm little?" Kyoko asked looking quizzically up at him.

"That's about right," Minato chuckled. He wrapped his right arm around her fearing that she would fall into the ocean if he didn't.

"Will my hands ever get big?" Kyoko asked comparing her hands to his. Her fingers looked like pieces of twine compared to his. She was amazed that he was able to wrap his hand around the railing while hers only covered about a quarter. She looked at the ocean smiling at the dolphins as they frolicked about in the water.

"Well they'll get bigger as you grow older," Minato replied readjusting his grip on Kyoko. She squirmed slightly feeling smothered.

"Will your hands get bigger?" Kyoko asked.

"Well…no, I've stopped growing," Minato answered poking Kyoko's nose. She let out a loud squeak giggling with surprise. He shushed Kyoko quietly.

"Are you immortal?" Kyoko asked looking up at Minato with shock and awe. He smiled down at her wondering how to tell her gently so she wouldn't lose her childish excitement. They went back to watching the dolphins play in the water.

"No…at a certain age your body stops growing…but you never stop aging Kyoko-chan," Minato replied. He placed her on his waist backing away from the edge of the boat.

* * *

><p><em>End Flashback<em>

"Princess!" Jiraiya clapped in front of her face.

"Yes?" Kyoko flinched sitting up even straighter.

"You okay? You didn't respond."

"I was just thinking about the first time I was on a boat with Papa."

"Bittersweet huh?"

"Yeah…" Kyoko looked down letting out a sigh. Jiraiya smiled wrapping his arms around her.

"Hey…it's gonna be okay."

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-chan…Kyoko-chan!...Wake up-ttebane!" a voice called out to her. Opening her eyes Kyoko saw an apparition in front of her. Kyoko gasped at the red hair and green apron. Kyoko felt the boat sway as she stared in disbelief<p>

"Mama?" Kyoko mumbled.

"You're having a tough time…Something I didn't expect from you…"

"Mama?!" Kyoko gasped. "But…how?"

"Hey…you're the one who can see 'those who are here and those who are not, the past and the present'. I'm keeping a close eye on you-ttebane! You need not worry and don't be like this!"

"I haven't seen you though…I see you when you're younger but not…"

"I said I was keeping a close eye on you-ttebane!" Kushina grumbled. The apparition flinched, she tossed her hair sheepishly. "I don't have much time…but…when you're sad…and when you have outbursts like me, I guess I just come out-ttebane."

"You're excited Mama,"

"I get to see my little girl-ttebane! You're so cute! Your looks are changing from mine. When you become an adult I think you're going to have a beautiful pair of lips. And your definitely not going to have a pancake ass-ttebane! God you're going to be a bombshell just like me but you're going to go through an awkward phase when you become a teenager. So pretty…" The apparition put her hands together with a smile. It leaned left and right. Kyoko watched the apparition. Her eyes began to water. "…but you're still so skinny. You're not eating enough are you? Your father never pushed you to eat more…lord, you're going to be a twig!"

"Mama…"

"Huh? Don't cry!...Well Kyoko-chan," the apparition's body began to disappear. "…it looks like it's time for me to go…but…don't fear the world. Don't live like you're afraid of the world."

"But Mama! What happened?! Why did you…"

"Stop letting people get to you and make you worry…Minato and I…your father and I are very proud of you…" Kyoko's tears continued as she sat up on her bed. _Mama…Papa…_she thought. With a smile she wiped them away, _that's right…I'm not supposed to be crying…_The next morning Kyoko gave Jiraiya a tender hug.

"You okay?"

"Yes…I had a wonderful 'dream'. It made me happy that there are people like you who are willing to take care of little girls like me."

"You're so weird."

"You're weird!" Kyoko grumbled. She smiled with a slight chuckle. "Jiraiya-sensei…How about we walk back through The Land of Lightening when we get back."

"No. that's out of the question."

"Why?"

"They know that you're his daughter…we don't want to risk anything."

"But we can't be afraid!"

"No."

* * *

><p>"I was thinking it might be a good idea to teach you how to use summonings." Jiraiya messed with her hair through her hood. Since they were in Luponian lands it didn't make sense to make her wear her ribbons. Yet she still had to be cautious.<p>

"I'm as old as Papa when he graduated from the Academy…are you sure this is a good idea."

"I was thinking when you were 12 or 13. I want you to get better control of Talasu before you start expending large amounts of chakra."

"Understandable."

"God you're definitely Minato's lovechild."

"Why do you keep saying that?" Kyoko growled. "I'm NOT Papa's lovechild!"

"I mean come on…you two are practically the same person."

"Well I'm not blonde and I'm not of light skin…nor am I male."

"You're digging your hole deeper."

Kyoko sighed shaking her head, "I guess you're right. Hey Jiraiya-sensei."

"Yeah?"

"Do you know how to do what Papa does?"

"Rasengan?"

"No…the thing that made him Konoha's Yellow Flash."

"No I don't know how to do that."

"But!"

"Look, your father has his own set of skills that are different from my own. Little princess, I do know that Raido and Genma know it."

"They do?!" Kyoko gasped excitedly.

"Yes, they do," Jiraiya replied.

"I'm going to get them to teach it to me. I'm gonna be the fastest shinobi. I want to be faster than Papa…I'm gonna be faster than Papa."

"You have to be faster than the 4th Raikage first."

"And then I'll become faster than Papa," Kyoko giggled.

"You still have a lot to do before you become faster than Papa," Jiraiya laughed.

"And that's why I have you," Kyoko cooed sweetly. Her ice blue eyes shifted upwards towards Jiraiya. She cocked her head with a pleasant smile. "You're my godfather after all." She leaned against Jiraiya playfully rubbing her head on his arm.

"So you finally figured that out?"

Kyoko's face soured. "Papa told me…he told me everything."

"If he told you everything then how did Mama get pregnant."

"A-Ah! W-Well…he didn't elaborate on that. You know what I meant!" Kyoko blushed a dark crimson. Kyoko's ear twitched, she turned her head to the right she thought she heard something. She carefully scanned behind them, nothing.

"Do you want me to tell you?"

"NO! You are not the best role model for that! You are very pervy, extremely pervy!" Kyoko growled.

"Sassy little Minato," Jiraiya laughed.

"Jiraiya-sensei," Kyoko sighed. She noticed that Jiraiya's back stiffened. Kyoko pulled her hair back and off her shoulders. "There are many spirits here."

"I can tell. Kyoko-chan," Jiraiya began. Kyoko flinched, his voice had turned serious. "Stay next to me." Kyoko nodded. _I don't think I've ever seen him so serious…_Kyoko thought, she came closer to his side. _This was the area that Minato had spoken about_, Jiraiya thought. He grabbed Kyoko by the shoulder pulling her closer. "Was this a battlefield?"

"They said it was…" Kyoko replied.

"Between Luponian and Shinobi?"

"N-…No,"

"You hesitated,"

"They're being drowned out…the voices are so loud." Kyoko covered her ears. She heard the word "kill" being whispered louder and louder. "Stop."

"What?"

"Stop bothering me!" Kyoko whimpered pressing her hands against her ears. "I can't listen to all of you! I can't answer all of you!"

"Kyoko-chan, relax, just clear your mind," Jiraiya soothed putting his hands on her shoulders. _She's consuming natural energy like crazy,_ Jiraiya thought. Her body was tingling.

"How can you say that when you can't hear them?!" Kyoko demanded. The ground cracked underneath their feet. She flinched, _I wonder if this was the destructive power that Papa tried to seal_, Kyoko thought. She heard ringing in her ears as the voices got louder shouting words of violence and screaming out in agony. She fell to her knees as she pressed her hands against her head even harder. _I can't take it!_ Kyoko thought the air around her wafting around her. She felt everything going dark and her vision turned blurry.

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-chan," a voice soothed. She felt a cool cloth on her forehead.<p>

"Jiraiya-sensei?"

"You passed out. Hey! Don't give me that face. Everything is fine." He continued to dab her forehead gently. "You have a fever."

"I'm sorry," Kyoko muttered. "What happened?"

"You continued to freak out. Caused a ruckus…attracted some people. They were pretty nice, and offered us a place to stay until you get back on your feet."

"Jiraiya-sensei, please," Kyoko begged. She sat up pushing the hand away. "What did I do? I can smell it…your blood…" His back was to her so she couldn't see the bandages but she knew they were there. She was out of control.

"Would it make a difference if you knew? I'll still be injured."

"U-Uh…no…" Kyoko answered.

"This place messes with you…we can't have you become emotional." Jiraiya ruffled her hair gently. "Why are you so upset?"

"Itachi was scared that I was coming here. He actually didn't want me to go."

"And?"

"And…he thinks pursuing Talasu is a bad idea," Kyoko replied.

"And what do you think?"

"What?"

"How do you feel about this?"

"He needs to have more faith in me! I'm a Chunin aren't I?"

"Chunin don't faint."

"A-Ah…right," Kyoko's ears fell.

"I'm teasing." His laugh was pained. _She struggles with controlling all that chakra. The seal itself is much weaker than the Eight Trigrams Seal on Naruto. Yet it allows her to easily manipulate chakra and her form. Yet…as she gets older and her own chakra increases that inactive crystal allows chakra to seep out of her when she's too preoccupied to suppress it…she must've noticed this…that's why she wants to go after Talasu,_ Jiraiya thought. Kyoko's face was still flushed from fever. She was sweating slightly. Tenderly he rubbed her brow with his sleeve. The girl groaned as he continued. "It's getting harder for you to suppress this chakra…" Kyoko nodded looking down at her hands. He pushed her head back up.

"I never told that to Itachi…" Kyoko whispered. "If he had known! If he had known I'm sure he'd ask the Hokage if he could come with us. Instead of my crystal keeping his chakra in check…I'm actively doing it. I sleep with a talisman so I can continue to suppress him through the night."

"Well you did what was best," Jiraiya answered. "Now you focus on getting better." Kyoko rubbed her jacketed shoulders. Jiraiya had noticed that throughout the years Kyoko still wore dresses but she always covered it with a jacket. "You really do live in jackets. You remind me so much of Minato."

_Flashback_

* * *

><p>"<em>Minato…you're making a miniature version of yourself." Kushina sighed as she and Jiraiya watched Minato danced with Kyoko in their living room. In Kyoko's words, Kushina was "too pregnant" to sing Kyoko to sleep like the little girl liked, Minato took it upon himself to dance the little girl to sleep. She was limp in his arms, her eyelids getting heavier. Kyoko and Minato were wearing matching jackets. Kushina had found the little girl's jacket at a store some time ago, and it became her favorite article of clothing.<em>

_ "I don't quite understand."_

_ "She lives in jackets." Kyoko's wardrobe of dresses was being taken over by jackets and Kushina hated it. Kyoko was beginning to refuse to wear dresses in favor of jackets and t-shirts. Kushina felt like her relationship with Kyoko was going down the drain. _

_ "She looks so cute in them. I love the way she looks in them."_

_ "That's because you wear jackets! I don't think I can let you dress her anymore. She'll be wearing a jacket on her wedding day!"_

_ "They're comfortable. But doesn't she look cute?"_

_ "No matter what Kyoko's doing, she looks cute. You haven't changed your style one bit."_

_ "What do you mean?"_

_ "You live in jackets. All you ever wear are jackets, all you ever WORE were jackets."_

_ "I have other clothes. And I don't always wear jackets. When I go to the office I'm not wearing a jacket."_

_ "Mama I'm tired," Kyoko whined from Minato's shoulder._

_ "Don't whine," Minato scolded._

* * *

><p><em>End Flashback<em>

"They're comfortable," Kyoko grumbled.

"Minato said that very same thing."

"I think the older I get the more I believe I resemble Mama."

"Yes, you have a sassy personality…but you are more like Minato. You have a really good heart."

"Mama had a good heart."

"But the only reason why you're Miyana Namikaze is because of Minato. You'll get what I mean when you get older."

"Yes." Jiraiya smiled fiendishly. Kyoko's eyes narrowed in annoyance.

"And that's why you're like Minato. I'm glad you stopped using that formal crap on me."

"But it's not that bad!"

"You like to be the formal? Jiraiya sat back on her bed resting his body.

"Now you're just trying to set me off!" Kyoko noticed the bandages underneath his robe. Her annoyance subsided, this was just like the time with Papa, yet she messed up big time. "The sooner we find Talasu, the better. Then I won't hurt people."

"You're such a melodramatic Minato!"

"Jiraiya-sensei please you got hurt because I can't control myself!"

"Get some rest Kyoko-chan, you still have a fever." Jiraiya placed his hands on her cheek lovingly.

"Yes," Kyoko nodded.

"Besides, you have a male admirer," Jiraiya chuckled. Kyoko thrust her nose into the air, it wasn't Itachi. He motioned to the corner. A child no older than Kyoko had been watching the two from a stool. The boy was of mulatto skin, brown curly hair and yellow eyes that shined brilliant even in the dim lit room. His hair fell to his shoulders small tight curls thrown about carelessly. His wore a blue shirt with a white Peter Pan collar and jean shorts.

"I'm actually not a boy, I'm a girl!" the child growled in a high pitch voice. "My name is Junko…I am half Luponian half Shinobi."

"Nice to meet you," Kyoko replied. Junko stared at Kyoko excitedly, her mouth pulled up in a feverish grin. Kyoko looked away from the girl uncomfortably. Junko seemed to know something Kyoko didn't. Kyoko looked back to see Junko still smiling that strange clownish grin.

"My nose tells me that you're the high priestess," Junko chuckled.

"Ah…yes," Kyoko replied with a single nod. Jiraiya placed his hand on her head pushing down teasingly. "Jiraiya-sensei!"

"It's a pleasure to be in your presence, High Maiden Miyana," Junko replied with a traditional Shinobi bow. She got out of her chair bounding up to Kyoko with an outstretched hand that could barely contain her excitement. Kyoko shook it quickly.

"Make friends Kyoko-chan," Jiraiya chuckled. He eased himself off the bed and out of the room. "You can't be suspicious of everyone." Junko looked to the old man confused.

"Don't worry about him," Kyoko groaned. Junko scrambled on to the bed smiling clownishly again.

"Do you have trouble with your hair?" Junko asked still grinning. Kyoko's eyes narrowed, this girl was just like Megumi. Kyoko let out a low rumble averting her eyes to the corner of her bed. Why was every girl she met so petty and controlling? Junko's eyes widened at Kyoko's sudden hostility. "My Mom passed away a while back…she's the 'dark' one…I'm being raised by my Dad and his family. They have long _beautiful_ straight hair and I'm stuck with this rag." The girl tossed her head letting the curls bounce around her head. "I was curious which one of your parents was the 'dark' one and if you have trouble with your hair."

"I'm not sure what you mean?"

"I want to know where did you get your hair and skin from. From Lord Hokage and who else? You're like me right? One light and one dark…A mulatto."

"Not exactly. My biological parents look like me. At least that's what I believe. Yondaime Hokage only adopted me, we share similar traits but we are not of the same family. But Yondaime Hokage was light and his 'care-taker' for me was also light. She did a good job taking care of it but when she died I had to learn all on my own. I do have some trouble but I'm getting better at it."

Junko became excited, "Can you teach me your ways?! How do you get the knots out?! I keep breaking combs!"

"UGH! I KNOW!" Kyoko gasped. "I use my fingers mostly and a comb when its wet. I don't comb it too often because it ruins my curls." Kyoko ran her hands over her hair playfully. "But also your hair is beautiful!" Junko blushed sitting up.

"Why do you say that?" Junko asked.

"Because, everyone is beautiful! That's what Yondaime Hokage taught me," Kyoko smiled tenderly. "And…my best friend Itachi. He's like my boyfriend. I've been complaining about my hair a lot to him lately. He always tells me that if I had different hair then I wouldn't be the same Kyoko-hime."

"Kyoko-hime? Is that what they call you?" Junko asked cocking her head. _This must be a popular Luponian trait. I only see Luponian doing this…_Kyoko noted.

"Yes it was the name that Yondaime Hokage gave me. I go by it in Konoha," Kyoko answered. "I can't go around as Miyana Kin-ttebane!" Kyoko covered her mouth. _Could this be my first female friend?_ Kyoko thought as her cheeks turned red.

Junko giggled, "You're adorable!"

"Even when I say –ttebane?"

"Yeah! I mean it makes everyone unique. Like out of my Mom's family and my Dad's family I'm the only one with gold eyes," Junko said with a single nod. "And then in my wolf form I have light green eyes. I'm the only one in my family to be able to do that."

"So your Dad is the shinobi?"

"Yeah,"

"If you don't mind me asking…from where?"

"Hmmmm…Kumo I guess. Most of our family is here and Kumo is the closet village. But I feel a connection with you."

"What do you mean?" Kyoko asked.

"I struggle with this two sides of me. I being raised as a Shinobi and my father doesn't allow me to shift. So I'm not able to be a Luponian. He was happy when I was five and my ears were sealed away. Honestly I wish my ears were like yours. I want to be a Luponian…I don't want to deny my Luponian-ess."

"Then don't, assert yourself for who you are! I'm a unique 'experiment' a Luponian raised as a Shinobi. I hide my ears and my abilities. But on the inside I'm proud to be who I am. I'm a Luponian and the people around me who are close to me love me for that," Kyoko giggled.

* * *

><p>Remember to read and review. I don't mind suggestions! Sorry that I've been so sporadic in my updating! It's been a hectic last semester of college!<p>

~WoofumsPup


	13. Chapter 13

Little Girl Lost Chapter 13

* * *

><p>"So that's the legendary Sannin Jiraiya," Samsu grumbled. <em>She definitely comes with some strong company<em>, he let out a nasal sigh. He had hoped that Kyoko would be sent alone or at the very least, dropped off.

"What should we do sir?"

"We have to keep a very close eye on him," Samsu answered. "Perhaps we can separate them. And who's the new girl?"

"A child she met during her travel here, the name is Junko." Samsu let out an annoyed sigh before putting on brave face. He approached the trio. Junko was gasping excitedly about being in the Queen's palace. She had been told by the lucky few in her village that it was a beautiful place but to see it in person was another thing.

"Young Maiden Miyana," Samsu said with a forced smile.

"Hello Samsu-san, this is my Godfather Legendary Sannin Jiraiya," Kyoko soothed. "And this is my friend Junko-chan."

"Hello," Junko giggled.

"You speak when spoken to," Samsu snapped. Junko and Kyoko flinched. Jiraiya placed his hands defensively on Kyoko's shoulders.

"There's no reason to treat the children like this," Jiraiya bellowed.

"We do things differently here, Legendary Sannin," Samsu said snobbishly. "Welcome to the Queen's Palace." Samsu shot a glare at the two girls and then stormed off into one of the hidden chambers.

"Not much of a welcome now was it?" Jiraiya chuckled trying to play it off. "Why don't you two go get situated, I want to stay and marvel at the beautiful architecture."

_Flashback_

_ "Jiraiya-sensei, there's something you should know about Samsu-san," Minato began. Kyoko was resting on his shoulder. Her ears back against her head._

_ "He's apart of the Geldani Clan, and there nothing he wants more than to make sure that Kyoko remains 'missing'. Keep a really close eye on her, if he's ever around. There are not too many that you can trust at the Queen's Palace," Minato explained._

_End Flashback_

* * *

><p>"Who is that?" Junko asked. Kyoko had been obsessed with the picture of this kid. She always stared at the picture with forlorn. Junko looked over her friend's shoulder seeing a little baby with blond hair. Kyoko remained quiet as she stared. "Well?" The girls were given time off to get situated in their shared room.<p>

"He's like my younger brother." "_Like"…I can't reveal that he's Papa's son or people will come after him…_Kyoko thought.

"Oohhhh, are you close?" Kyoko pressed the picture against her chest looking upwards.

"No…unfortunately…" Kyoko sighed looking out the window. She didn't want Junko to see her eyes tearing up.

"Why?"

"Because I'm not allowed to be around him?"

"Why?"

"Just because…they say I need to learn to contr…"

"Excuses!" Junko sung out.

"But they get very upset when I see him like this!" Kyoko grumbled/

"Then…visit him as a wolf duh. What type of Luponian are you?" Junko teased.

"You're fun."

"Of course I am! So approach him as a wolf puppy. Play with him. How old is he?"

"Five," Kyoko sighed.

"You're sad about that?"

"YES", Kyoko gasped. She cleared her throat to calm herself, "I mean they grow up so quickly."

"Well he's still young!"

"Yes," Kyoko muttered.

"So play with him! I mean you're apart of the Kin Clan, you can do numerous disguises freely!"

"I guess you're right. I'm just around so many Shinobi I guess I forget who I am sometimes."

"How long are you staying?"

"About four more days. Jiraiya-sensei wants to get back before this storm gets worse."

"When will you be back?"

"I don't know."

"Awww, you know I'm going to miss you."

"I know, I'll miss you. You're the first female friend I've ever had." Kyoko wrapped her arms around Junko tightly. "I'm really going to miss you." Junko smiled tenderly. The only other girl I know very well likes to one up me all the time. Her name is Megumi Uchiha. Itachi-kun likes to protect me from her."

"WHEN CAN I MEET THIS PRINCE?!" Junko demanded.

* * *

><p>"Jiraiya-sensei…why can't I see Naruto?" Empowered by her friend's words Kyoko had to ask him.<p>

"Lord Hiruzen didn't tell you?"

"No," Kyoko muttered. Kyoko gulped, if the Third Hokage was involved then it must have been serious. Jiraiya sighed scratching the back of his head.

_Flashback_

_**What is this feeling?! **__Minato thought, __**It feels like its…Kyoko!**__ Minato stood up from his chair. His wife let out a terrified shriek. Minato flickered to their location. The intensity of Kyoko's chakra was almost nauseating. His wife had turned over a table and was hiding behind clutching her belly tightly. Kyoko was glowing brightly in the middle of the room mumbling. __**I can't believe her chakra…she's…**__Minato thought as the air around them began to stir. The girl's feet lifted from the ground and her hair wafting around her. The little girl formed fists materializing chakra._

_ "Kushina!" Minatol hollered shielding his eyes from Kyoko's light. He dashed to her location blitzing them to his safe house._

_ "Minato, are you doing?!"_

_ "She was going to kill you,"_

_ "Minato…are you out of your mind?"_

_ "No, I sensed a killing intent. I'm going back to save our home."_

_ "and what about Kyoko. Don't you mean save Kyoko?!"_

_ "I have to do what I can." Minato went back to their home seeing Kyoko still materializing chakra. A seal formed below her. "Miyana stop this!"_

_ "I'm going to extract the Kyubi and then seal the beast in death," Kyoko replied. Her voice distorted amongst others._

_ "Don't be stupid, I can't let you kill your mother!" Kyoko's head shifted to Minato. Her eyes lacked pupils. Minato armed himself, Kyoko was out of his control._

_ "Then I'll kill you too…" Her voice was cold as she raised one of her fists. __**I'm not dying today!**__ Minato thought tossing the kunai at the girl deliberately missing her. Just as it passed her body he appeared behind her knocking the girl out. As the girl went out the air stopped and she fell to the ground. The seal wen…_

End Flashback

"I DIDN'T!" Kyoko gasped. Her chest rose and fell quickly. Her eyes darted back and forth. "I-I WOULDN'T!"

"You know your gods don't get along with the tailed beasts."

"But _**I**_ wouldn't do that!"

"Kyoko-chan." Kyoko closed her eyes repeating the phrase "Don't lose yourself," in her head. She bit her lip calming her chest. Opening her eyes Kyoko sighed disappointment in herself.

"So…that's it…"

"You need to learn to keep them in control. Keep your powers in control. I've taught you how to calm yourself with natural energy but you need to do more than that," Jiraiya answered. Kyoko formed fists, she wasn't a killer or someone to be controlled. Jiraiya leaned in close, "Naruto is also the 'legacy' of the Fourth Hokage and the Fourth Hokage has a lot of enemies, some of which have come after you. In order for both of you to survive and thrive it has to be like this."

"But I want to see Naruto! He's my brother!" Kyoko snapped. Jiraiya shushed her quickly, he didn't want any nosy Palace Staff to run off and tell this information to Samsu.

"NOT until you calm yourself. Even now your chakra is affecting the landscape," Jiraiya replied. The ground was cracking at her feet. "More so now since Natural energy flows a lot more freely here." Kyoko flinched nodding her head. She looked down letting out a loud sigh

"Yes Jiraiya-sensei."

"As I said before your seals are incomplete so it's getting harder for you, but we'll fix this together." Jiraiya rubbed Kyoko's head in between her ears. "Okay?" Kyoko mouthed an 'okay' in response. "Okay."

* * *

><p>"Oh my…you're so big now!" Maiden Chi gasped. "How old are you?" It was day two into her little expedition at the Queen's Palace. They had arrived so late the evening before, it was best to hold off the formal greetings until the next day. The older maiden was now 23 years old and pregnant. Kyoko felt awkward as the woman hugged her tightly. Unlike her cheery well-rested eyes that Kyoko knew as a four year old, this Chi had small bags under her eyes. <em>I remember similar bags under Mama's and Papa's eyes. She must already have kids<em>, Kyoko thought. Junko stood with a tender smile, but was getting slightly jealous of all the attention her new friend was getting.

"Nine…turning ten," Kyoko answered.

"Are you now. Do you remember me?"

"Maiden Chi," Kyoko replied. Kyoko bowed formally and Chi bowed back.

"You've become so calm. You were such a firecracker! You spoke your mind whenever and wherever!"

"I still am in some senses," Kyoko chuckled sheepishly. She thought of the occasions where she would beat boys and girls up who made fun of her. "First litter, second?" Chi smiled, looking down.

"Second," Maiden Chi chuckled rubbing her belly. "Do you want to meet my husband?"

"Yes. Can I meet your kids too?"

"I have two little girls…one named Kiyana the other Myokia," Chi said rubbing her belly. Kyoko blushed with a sheepish smile. "You were such a little sweetie…and you had a profound effect on me…I had to…"

"How old are they?"

"They're three going on four. They'd love to meet you."

"What are you having?"

"Another girl. I think this one's a priestess. I'm only to have three girls…well that's the prophecy I'm supposed to have. My husband said that this time there won't be high priestess inspired names!" She laughed playfully. "Actually 'Miyana' is a very popular name right now…Everyone wants a little piece of you especially since they know you're alive."

"High Priestess!" two women called out running to the girl.

"Ipiza…Idena," Kyoko muttered. The two women pulled Kyoko into a loving hug. Kyoko felt a little uncomfortable. She groaned quietly as her face was pressed against Ipiza's chest. _Well she's definitely loved her…but who know who's putting on an act and who is not_, Jiraiya thought.

"Oh priestess," Idena muttered as tears came to her eyes. "…Priestess…we were looking forward to this day." Kyoko let out a louder groan as the woman held on.

"Okay!" Kyoko whined trying to get free. The handmaidens released the girl with a aigh.

"There's the fire!" Chi exclaimed playfully. The adults laughed as Kyoko grumbled.

"I'm not a four year old anymore who likes to be swaddled in someone's chest!"

"So much fire!" Chi laughed. Kyoko blushed grumbling quietly.

"What's all the racket? Samsu demanded immediately removing the room's sense of life. It became cold and sterile with every step he took. "Maiden Chi, you need to be sitting down at your stage in your pregnancy. Ipiza, Idena what are your duties?! You two, guests should not be seen! And _**you**_where are your priestess robes?! Why aren't you doing anything?!" Kyoko rolled her eyes pursing her lips. Samsu barked at Kyoko in her native language. Kyoko snapped back in the same tongue. _She's still a lot like Kushina, Minato would be proud and also a little dismayed_, Jiraiya thought. Samsu flinched before regaining his composure. "The Queen will see you now." Jiraiya rubbed Kyoko's shoulder to soothe her.

"What happened to Lord Fourth Hokage?" Queen Lana asked nonchalantly. Kyoko looked down at the ground. She closed her eyes trying to prevent her eyes from tearing up.

"It's okay," Jiraiya soothed.

"He passed away…you sent flowers remember Queen Lana?" Ostana growled. "Have you forgotten about the monthly stipend we send for her family?"

"Oh yes…sorry for your lost." The Queen looked under her nails unconcerned.

"You asked me to come and check in with you. Maiden Chi was going to teach me some things," Kyoko answered calmly. She barely gazed up at Samsu. _She has the air of the Fourth Hokage…She's too indoctrinated in Shinobi ways, we'll have to deal with her before she corrupts us_, Samsu thought glaring down at the girl as she stood there calmly next to Jiraiya. Her older companion was looking straight up at him. The advisor flinched before looking elsewhere. He shot a glance at Jiraiya to find that he was still staring at him.

"Yes, you and Maiden Chi have much to do. That's all I really want. I don't care to see you for the rest of your trip here."

"Any question that you have, I'd be happy to answer them," Samsu purred.

"I have learned from the Fourth Hokage as well as the Third Hokage, diplomacy works the best when there is no middle man." Kyoko answered. Samsu growled quietly.

"Well you're dismissed," Queen Lana sighed.

"Junko-chan, can I talk to Jiraiya-sensei alone?"

"Ah…sure," Junko muttered. "I'll see you later?"

"Yeah," Kyoko said quietly.

"Something's bothering you isn't it," Jiraiya asked.

"Yeah," Kyoko whispered.

"What is it?"

"Don't look at the girls," Kyoko growled.

"Yes Sassy Little Minato," Jiraiya teased.

"Jiraiya-sensei!" Kyoko whined. "You know how you can get!" Kyoko grabbed her sleeves biting her lips. _That's not what she's concerned about_, Jiraiya thought. She shifted uncomfortably on her feet.

"Eh…Princess?"

"Am I a monster?" Kyoko asked.

"What do you mean?"

"When I was four…Papa tried to seal some of my chakra away. Was it that I'm too dangerous? You even said that I tried to kill Mama…and Papa."

"You were in a lot of pain during that period of time. You were having bad headaches and seizures. Minato wanted to alleviate your pain. He thought that sealing away apart of your chakra would help heal you. I know Minato left you with more questions than answers. It'll come to you Sassy Little Minato."

"I know…but…it does make me…"

"You're not a monster. You're a girl with unique abilities. Here…Kyoko-chan," Jiraiya soothed. He took a book out of his robes. "Your Papa wrote this about you. I was going to wait to give it to you, but you need it now. Ever since you were human, he has documented your day to day interactions. Now I'm going to continue to do a little digging, I'll see you a little later." She didn't even notice Jiraiya leave. Kyoko eagerly opened the book to the first page…

_Day 1:_

_Oh my god, she's human! She's a human. A living breathing human! She's cute, she's tiny, she's very skinny, she's…unorthodox that's for sure. She has these wolf ears and no human ears. Her hair is white like her wolf fur. Her eyes are blue like mine…but they're an icy cold. She has brown skin. She likes to be held and she's quite panicked right now. Kushina hasn't been able to put her down. But she's tired and she'll fall asleep soon. Another peculiarity is that she doesn't speak or make any noise for that matter. It_

_Day 2:_

_She's still human. I thought I was dreaming. Her ears can move independently of each other. She's still quite fearful or she's just not one for emotions. Kushina is able to get more emotions out of her than I am. Once she calms down, she seems like she'll be a playful loving girl. She doesn't seem to understand us. She stares at us blankly when we give her orders. As of right now we point. She still has yet to speak._

_Day 3:_

_She's warming up to me. She takes my hand without prompting and holds her arms out to be picked up. She likes being held but prefers to not be carried. She gets antsy when she's carried for long distances. Kyoko has two crystals in her forehead like she did as a wolf. They don't hurt her when they're touched. Kyoko also is able to understand us, she was just playing dumb or was too scared to respond. The Elders do not like her, which is not surprising. Kyoko still hasn't spoken to us and she doesn't sleep well at night._

Kyoko skipped over Day 4 through 6 as she made a beeline to her room. She wanted to know her father's personal thoughts, the thoughts that she wouldn't have understood at that age.

_Day 7:_

_Kushina yelled at Kyoko today and it scared her so much she ran. She hid on the top shelf of the closet. I'm not sure how she got there. She couldn't climb up there, I know that for a fact. She's still very peculiar, I still can't quite figure her out. The ears, the immense chakra for her age...I wonder if she's an experiment. Moving on I washed her today…I'd prefer if Kushina washed her since Kyoko is a little girl. Kyoko has a black ban on her neck. She doesn't like when we touch it. It's difficult to not get soap in her ears. We want her to have a few friends so Kushina took her to meet Uchiha Mikoto's son Itachi. Kyoko was in a good mood. Her drawings are quite morbid. She draws dead people. I'm afraid that something bad has happened to her family. I pray that these suspicions are incorrect. _

_Day 8:_

_She's getting used to us, our ways and idiosyncrasies. She likes to snuggle with Kushina and can spend hours (if Kushina lets her) on Kushina's lap. Kyoko seems to really love peanut butter, more than meat. _

_Day 9: _

_Played hide and seek with Kyoko today. I hid, she seeked. She wailed for an hour. She did find me quickly but…I don't know why she was so upset. Interestingly enough, she doesn't make sound when she cries. I think we'll retire that game until she's older. She's currently sleeping._

_Day 10:_

_She's so cute, we took her to a play. Kushina was a little jealous but we all had a good time. Kyoko fell asleep before the play could finish. She was not a bother when we put her to bed._

_Day 11:_

_Kushina didn't like how I didn't let Kyoko play with her food. I don't think it promotes good values. Kyoko didn't seem to mind. She's very well behaved. Still no talking and no noise. She exhales loudly and quickly when she's annoyed or angry. I've decided to call it "huffing"._

_Day 12:_

_She really likes to go to work with me. It's cute. She sits calmly and draws and when she gets tired she comes to me throws her hands up towards me like she's asking to go to bed. Although I am concerned that she likes to sit on my lap and watch me work. I know she's a child but something is still weird…or maybe this is what it's like to be a father. Her ears tickle my chin when she sits on my lap._

Eagerly Kyoko thumbed through the pages. She had the notebook, she could always go back and read the pages on a different day.

_Day 20:_

_Having a child means you have no personal space. I wanted to have an intimate bath with Kushina this morning. Just something between the two of us before Kyoko-chan got up. I guess the commotion woke up the little girl. Her hearing is extraordinary. Well Kyoko got sad when she was left out so the three of us had a bath. Well, it was a fun three minutes. Kushina's going to be a great mother and the bath was fun until she kicked me out to spend more time with Kyoko-chan._

_Day 21:_

_I really love this little girl, she's so sweet and so kind. She'll pick flowers for me and she likes to make floral wreaths. Her smile is so happy and I know she's had some difficult times before coming to Kushina and me. With all of this, she still has a forgiving nature…it's something that we should all learn how to do. We get so caught up in our own beliefs that sometimes we lay unnecessary blame. She REALLY likes coming to work with me. Although I'm not a slacker, she does give me an excuse to take a break._

_Day 30:_

_It's sobering…people look at me differently when Kyoko's around. People pull their children away or pick them up when she passes them. I would first look past it and think "well it's coincidence". But, it's not. I want to believe that the past that Kushina had would not be repeated in the future. The harshness of their stares…Kyoko seems to be so "foreign" and being a Luponian has nothing to do with this. Have I really been so blind? If I walked by a father who had a little girl like Kyoko…would I look at them the same way? How do we fix this…how do we get people to look past little things like being a foreigner or the way someone looks. Hopefully having Kyoko will change the way we do things here in Konoha._

* * *

><p>I just got a puppy and graduated from college so I've been very busy, sorry that I haven't posted in a while. I may be gone for a little while, while I look for a job. I hope that it won't take too long.<p>

WoofumsPup


	14. Chapter 14

Little Girl Lost Chapter 14

* * *

><p>Kyoko fell to her knees as she felt Talasu's chakra run into her. They were successful in tracking the God down to a temple about three miles away from Junko's home village. They subdued him enough to seal him back into Kyoko. Kyoko placed her hands on the ground feeling a burning sensation run through her body. Parts of her seals illuminated on her body.<p>

"Are you alright Kyoko-chan?" Jiraiya asked.

"Yeah," Kyoko whispered. She shut her eyes suppressing the God's wrath. Kyoko regained control standing up slowly. "I feel complete for once." Excitedly Kyoko jumped up and down. When she landed Kyoko felt her body lose footing. She fell to the ground finding herself on ice. "O-Oh! What is this?" She had unknowingly frozen the floor.

"You're going to have to be even more careful now," Jiraiya answered. Kyoko felt Jiraiya lift her up by her arm. "Your power isn't leaking out of you anymore. You'll be able to fight longer but you'll probably have to meditate longer."

"Yeah," Kyoko agreed. "Let's get going."

"Your Papa would be very proud of you," Jiraiya soothed. Kyoko blushed.

"He's here with us…" Kyoko mumbled.

"What is he saying?"

"Nothing…he looks very happy. He's disappearing right now," Kyoko answered.

"Come on, let's get going, your little friend is probably anxious to see the new you," Jiraiya replied ushering Kyoko out of the temple. Junko was waiting outside for them.

"Kyoko-hime!" Junko gasped. Happily Kyoko extended her arms to her. Junko was in Kyoko's arms immediately.

"It's okay Junko-chan," Kyoko soothed.

"I was afraid that you were going to die!"

"It'll take more than that to kill me," Kyoko chuckled playfully.

"DON'T get cocky! This could have been way worst!" Junko cried. "I don't want to lose you!"

"Hey, it's okay," Kyoko soothed. Kyoko held on to Junko. "I'm okay, I'll be stronger than ever now."

"It's time to take her home now Kyoko-chan," Jiraiya sighed.

"Can't you guys just stay for a little while?" Junko whined. "I want to learn more about Konoha, and Itachi-kun and your family."

"On another occasion," Kyoko sighed.

"We still have to work on your grammar. You sound like an old person," Junko whined.

"Hey! I'm an old person!" Jiraiya teased. Junko laughed slightly drying her tears on her sleeve.

"But you sound okay!" Junko replied. "You're so dignified Kyoko-hime."

"But of course, I'm known as a 'princess' in Konoha," Kyoko replied.

"So. Dignified," Junko groaned.

"Yes, I am!" Kyoko chuckled. Junko became silent as they got closer to her home. Kyoko pursed her lips staring at the ground. She didn't want to leave her friend but at the same time she was eager to get back home to Naruto and Itachi. She had missed out so much on Naruto's life that she wasn't sure where to start. And then, Itachi was going to be Chunin this time around, and Kyoko wanted to be there to support him. She heard her name being called, it was Jiraiya, they had made it to Junko's Village. The Villagers were excited to see Kyoko since it wasn't everyday that the High Priestess paid them a visit. Kyoko sighed frowning. She faced her friend who was unable to hold her tears in. With a slight smile Kyoko hugged Junko, she would look forward to the day where she'd see her again.

"So I guess this is bye for now," Kyoko whispered in her friend's ear. Junko was heaving into Kyoko's shoulder.

"Remember to give the prince your gift," Junko whimpered.

_Flashback_

"_Look! You said that you have a boyfriend!" Junko cooed pointing at a table with several trinkets and collars. Eagerly Junko pulled Kyoko to the table. _

_ "No no no no no no! He's __**NOT**__ my boyfriend!" Kyoko put her hands up defensively. Smiling slightly, Kyoko tried to wave away the idea._

_ "Well if he's cute, I'll take him!"_

_ "HE IS MY BOYFRIEND!" Kyoko snapped. She covered her mouth embarrassed. Her cheeks flustered a slight shade of pink._

_ "I'm going to have to meet this boy! He really did a number on you!"_

_ "Junko-chan," Kyoko mumbled looking away from the girl. The girl sifted through the table finding a blue collar, with an icicle design._

_ "But come on you should buy this!"_

_ "What is it?" Kyoko's ears perked up in curiousity._

_ "You know, it's a love collar."_

_ "Itachi is not a Luponian, and I don't think he'd wear it." Junko rolled her eyes paying for the collar. Playfully the young girl dangled it from her fingers._

_ "Well you never know until you try. Come on take it! Besides, when we get older I need to teach you how to make one of these. He'd love it even more if you made it yourself"_

_ "I'm sure he won't!" Kyoko replied. "I mean that he won't wear it!"_

_ "Come on taaaakkkkeeeee iiiiittttt! Or I'll give it to Itachi-kun myself! Like I said, if he's cute, I'll take him!"_

_ "Fiiinnnneeee," Kyoko sighed. She took the collar from Junko's fingertips and put it in her bag._

_ "If I get permission from my Dad…I'm going to come to Konoha and make sure you do!"_

_ "I will, I will!" Kyoko gasped putting her hands up again._

_ "So what's it like in Konoha?_

_ "It's almost always warm, no need to wear all these heavy clothes outside. But I have to hide my ears there. So it's a double edged sword."_

_ "You know…that man you travel with can perform that ritual to make you look 'Shinobi'. You're really close to him right?_

_ "Yes, but I don't think he'd do it."_

_ "You're such a downer!" Junko groaned. "You're optimistic about everyone else but when it comes to yourself, you set yourself back! How does this Itachi-kun feel about this?"_

_ "He says similar things that you do," Kyoko answered._

_ "So be happy! Look at the world around us! We're different! We're all shapes and sizes, all different types! Isn't it amazing."_

_ "But life can be very cruel."_

_ "God you're terrible," Junko sighed. Gently her new friend tapped Kyoko on the nose. "Come on Kyoko-hime! I mean what about Itachi-kun. You like this Itachi-kun,"_

_ "But of course!"_

_ "We need to work on your grammar." Junko sighed. "And you love this Itachi-kun."_

_ "Yes, yes of course!"_

_ "And this Itachi-kun loves you."_

_ "With all his heart,"_

_ "Now you're telling me he's a Shinobi."_

_ "And where are you going with this?!" _

_ "He's a shinobi and doesn't care about you being a Luponian. Do you think he wouldn't appreciate this part of your culture? He may wear it for a day, but I'm sure he'll treasure it forever! Oh and we need to get you one too!"_

_ "But isn't that what the boy does?"_

_ "Yeah, but do you think Itachi will do it?"_

_ "I think so."_

_End Flashback_

"Don't worry I will," Kyoko muttered becoming teary eyed herself.

"I'll see you soon okay Kyoko-hime?"

"Okay," Kyoko muttered. "Bye Junko-chan."

"Bye Kyoko-hime," Junko mumbled as she left Kyoko's warm embrace. Jiriaya motioned with his head for her to follow him. Kyoko nodded following him with a heavy head.

* * *

><p>"Itachi," Kyoko muttered feeling the boy's arms around her. Her cheeks became flustered. He always seemed to know what day she'd be back.<p>

"I'm glad you're back," Itachi whispered into her ear. Kyoko pulled away looking into his eyes. They were tormented. Kyoko sighed slightly pressing her ears back. Itachi always did what was best for everyone else and not himself. She tenderly rubbed his cheek.

"Me too," Kyoko muttered. Itachi smiled slightly. _He won't tell me…_Kyoko thought. "Itachi, I brought you some things." Kyoko smiled slightly pulling out a box from her backpack. She blushed again looking down at the ground. With a slight bow Kyoko thrust the box into Itachi's arms. "Please take it."

"What is it?" Itachi asked as he took the box away from her.

"Please just take it." Kyoko replied.

"But what is it?" Itachi teased.

"It's a box, will you just take it?!" Kyoko grumbled her face turning red. She kicked the dirt in the ground anxiously.

"I will cherish the box for ever," Itachi teased.

"Open the box you jerk," Kyoko grumbled.

"What has you so angry?" Itachi asked.

"Just open the box," Kyoko grumbled.

"Yes dearest princess," Itachi replied. He undid the ribbon and opened the box. "A collar? And a necklace?" The collar was blue in color with hand sewn

"In my culture…you give collars to people you want to marry…although…"

"Thank you," Itachi answered. He leaned in close, "I know exactly what the collar is, I'm just teasing you." Kyoko slapped his face angrily. Her face was darker then un-oxygenated blood. He smiled at her touching his stinging cheek. "You look so cute when you're frustrated." Carefully he cupped her chin kissing her forehead. She slipped out of his grip falling to the ground unconscious. "Kyoko-hime?" He rubbed her cheek. "Miyana-chan?" He shook her shoulder. "Miyana?...Well I wasn't going for that…" Itachi carefully picked Kyoko up carrying her to his home. Megumi had been watching the whole time. She went around the corner with her friend smirking tenderly.

"She bought him a collar, that's some kinky stuff right there. I bet she's having sex," Megumi gossiped with her best friend, Sabanto. Sabanto was of meek stature, always cowering around her more confident Megumi. The meek girl was a quiet and studious member of the Uchiha Clan. Sabanto gained confident when she was around Megumi or when they picked on someone else.

"That's definitely weird, the collar," Sabanto replied.

"Who do you think it was?" Megumi asked. "I bet he's ugly, or MUCH older."

"It wasn't Itachi that's for sure," her friend laughed her confidence building with each jab at Kyoko.

"She's a freak." Sabanto nodded. "Always wearing those ribbons as if she's hiding something. Itachi will probably wear the darn thing. Ugh I don't know what Itachi sees in her. She won't further our lines. The Uchiha need to stay pure and not be tainted by some Darkie," Megumi grumbled. Sabanto's eyes widened taken aback by Megumi's words. Megumi motioned Sabanto to follow her.

"Woooahhhh!" Sabanto gasped. "U-Um…That's a little inappropriate don't you think?"

"You know the Uchiha have to stay pure." Sabanto nodded as she followed along.

"No, the second part…the "D" word you used. That's not a word you should be using, don't you think?"

"That what…UUUGGGHHHH you KNOW what I mean!" Megumi snapped. Megumi shoved Sabanto into an alley. The confident girl then pressed Sabanto up against a wall.

"Uhhhh…n-no," her friend whispered. Sabanto cowered as Megumi became angry.

"Are you saying that I'm a racist?! I'm NOT a racist!"

"I'm not saying that but…saying something like that…" Sabanto muttered her voice wavering.

"Are you talking down to me?!" Megumi demanded her voice getting louder.

"N-No…"

"Then QUIT talking down to me. Let's go," Megumi snapped releasing Sabanto. The girl quickly followed stumbling over herself.

* * *

><p>"Good morning," Itachi soothed as Kyoko opened her eyes. She immediately blushed seeing that Itachi had the collar on.<p>

"YOU'RE WEARING IT?!" Kyoko gasped sitting up quickly. Itachi climbed on his bed pushing her back down. He shushed her quietly.

"If you get flustered again then you'll pass out again," Itachi chuckled.

"Take it off!" Kyoko whispered.

"You want to marry me right?" Itachi asked.

"Yes, but…"

"But what?"

"Don't wear it!"

"I have something for you too," Itachi replied. He went to his dresser pulling out his own box. "I promise not to wear mine, if you don't wear yours."

"Wait…when did you do this?"

"It's all a big secret Miyana-chan, perhaps it's a conspiracy,"

"Itachi…"she whispered.

"I read it in Lord Hokage's book. I thought it would be nice to surprise for you when you got back." Itachi turned pink himself. "I learned how to sew a little bit from my Mom to personalize it for you. I…I didn't think you'd wear it everyday so I bought you a necklace. Will you wear them for me?" Itachi opened the box himself taking out a locket. He moved her hair placing it around her neck. "It complements the one from your parents."

"How did you…"

"I saved up money from my missions. You bought this with your mission money right?" Itachi asked touching his collar. Kyoko nodded. There was a slight knock on the door.

"Nii-san," a voice said from the other side.

"Yes?" Itachi replied.

"Dinner, and is she eating too?" his little brother asked.

"Do you want to stay for dinner?" Itachi whispered.

"If you don't mind," Kyoko replied.

"Yes!"

"What about the night?" Sasuke asked.

"No I'll walk her home after dinner."

"Aww, what about my training?" the little boy whined.

"It'll have to wait till tomorrow," Itachi replied. His brother continued to whine.

"Take your brother out to train," Kyoko ordered.

"No, I have to take you home," Itachi replied.

"Take your brother out to train," she repeated.

"No, I made a promise that I'd take you home." Kyoko sighed as he helped her out of the bed. He whined playfully as he took off his collar.

"You're beginning to creep me out."

"I haven't seen you in a while."

* * *

><p>The next day Kyoko began preparations for a disguise to see Naruto. She went to the clothing store buying some male clothes fit for a six-year-old boy. She then went to the pet store and bought a collar for young puppy. She would be able to flip between the two of them. Kyoko met with Itachi at noon before they headed to her home. Kyoko changed her looks and put on the clothes. She exited her room excitedly approached Itachi. The boy shook his head dismayed. Kyoko had made herself into a tiny version of the Fourth Hokage with brown skin.<p>

"How do I look?" Kyoko giggled. She spun like a girl before halting in front of Itachi cutely.

"Boys don't spin," Itachi sighed. "Why can't you just be a wolf?" Kyoko had informed him of her plan the night before.

"I look different enough. I changed Papa's skin, I'm wearing different clothes, Papa's hair is different, I don't look that much like Papa."

"You have the same facial structure. I mean just leaving your skin the same tone and changing the color of the hair and eyes is not much of a difference."

"Hey but I'm also a 6 year old."

"You're a 6 year old with a big vocabulary," Itachi sighed.

"Come on Itachi-san," Kyoko replied as she manipulated her voice to sound more boy-like.

"What's your name young man?"

"Kyosuke!"

"How original."

"Oh ha ha!" Kyoko chuckled rolling her eyes.

* * *

><p>"Hello," a young medium brown boy said to Naruto as he laid down in the grass. His face was of cheerful disposition. The boy had striking gold eyes and brown hair lighter than his skin. He wore a tracksuit jacket with brown shorts. One of the most unique things about the boy was that he wore a dog collar around his neck. Naruto looked at the boy suspiciously. Everyone had looked at him with disdain. The boy's face turned puzzled, "Are you okay?"<p>

"Yeah, why do you care?!" Naruto growled. He sat up staring at the brown boy puzzled. _He doesn't have many friends…and the way people look at him has made him a bit cold…_Kyosuke thought.

"Well, I just want to make sure. You were all by yourself," the boy replied. The boy joined Naruto on the ground. "My name is Kyosuke, and you are?" The boy smiled warmly. Naruto continued his suspicious glare.

"Naruto," he growled back.

"Are you sure you're alright?" Kyosuke asked.

"You're not from around here are you?" Naruto replied. He began to loosen up. Kyosuke flinched.

Kyosuke shook his head, "No I just moved here. My Dad is a historian of sorts. We're always traveling. I don't make too many friends because of it. I saw you and you seemed nice." Kyosuke smiled broadly. Naruto straightened his back.

"A historian of what?" Kyosuke held in a flinch, Kyoko had never thought that Naruto would ask all these questions.

"I don't know…he doesn't tell me much about his work. I'm assuming it's secretive…We actually don't travel together. My Dad is so busy that I rarely see him."

"So how long are you staying?" Naruto asked his emotional guards dropping.

"I don't know, but come on, Naruto-kun, want to go to the playground? It seems like there are other nice kids over there!" Kyosuke eagerly jumped up from his seat.

"No," Naruto replied.

"Something wrong?"

"Look you should save yourself the trouble and not be around me," he muttered. His guards came back up.

"Why?"

"You'll figure out soon enough."

"But until then…why can't we be friends? I'm sure whatever it is…it won't ruin our friendship." Kyosuke offered Naruto his hand. "Come let's do something before the sun goes down."

"Ah…sorry, I actually have something I have to do," Naruto replied standing up on his own.

"Alright, well I hope to see you soon," Kyosuke said with a nod. "It was nice meeting you!" Kyosuke ran off waving goodbye to Naruto.

* * *

><p>It's Itachi's birthday, so I rushed to finish the chapter today. Also a shorter chapter than normal but Kyoko, or "Kyosuke" finally has contact with herhis little bro!


	15. Chapter 15

Little Girl Lost Chapter 15

* * *

><p>"Hello again!" Kyosuke chuckled leaning over Naruto. He was once again lying in the grass. "Aren't you a little far out?" <em>He likes to stay away from people…but I can tell that he really wants companionship,<em> Kyoko thought.

"You again! I wasn't sure if I'd ever see you again."

"My Dad said we'd be here for a little while. So…what's new?" Kyosuke asked plopping down next to him. "How are you-your parents?" _Bad question, bad question, bad question. Why did you ask that question?! _Kyoko thought trying to not cry.

"I don't got any. What's with you?" Naruto asked seeing the boy next to him almost in tears. _This is a weird kid…he's sensitive like a girl_, Naruto thought.

"It's just that my Mom was murdered…I…I…I…" Kyosuke stammered. _Think of something! You're already in this deep!_ Kyoko thought as the tears flowed down her little boy face.

"It's okay, you don't have to tell me, I can tell that it still hurts," the boy soothed. With a sniffle, Kyosuke dried his tears on his sleeve.

"I'm sorry, it truly does hurt," Kyosuke muttered.

"So what about your Dad? You said he was a historian?" Naruto asked sitting up.

"Yeah, he likes to write books and do a lot of research," Kyosuke answered. Kyosuke got quiet. "He's…He's been distant since my Mom died. It's like I don't exist, but why am I complaining? I should relish that…"_ Oh god…I think I created an imaginary lovechild of Kakashi-nii and Jiraiya-sensei. Kakashi-nii is always distant, to the point where he's always gone and Jiraiya-sensei who writes books and does a lot of research, _Kyoko thought.

"Hey don't worry about that…you said you wanted to play the other day right? Why don't we go to the playground?" Naruto suggested.

"Actually, wanna walk in the woods? It's pretty out there," Kyosuke asked.

"A-Ah sure," Naruto muttered.

"That was rather rude of me, I'm terribly sorry about that…would you prefer to go to the park?" Kyosuke chucked. He rubbed the back of his head sheepishly.

"You're pretty formal."

"It's what my Dad wants…well what he prefers," Kyosuke corrected. Kyosuke jumped slightly, he cocked his head curiously. "I never asked for your full name."

"I'm Naruto Uzumaki and I'm going to be the next Hokage-dattebayo!"

"Next Hokage huh…" Kyosuke smiled fondly at the ground. _He has the same aspirations as you and Mama, Papa…_Kyoko thought. Curiously Naruto leaned in close the boy had been paused in time for what seemed like minutes. "O-Oh! I was just admiring you. I don't think I could ever become a leader like that."

"That's right I'm going to be the next Hokage-dattebayo!" Naruto answered boastfully. "And you?"

"I'm Kyosuke Minamoto, I don't have any great aspirations like you do!" Kyosuke replied. Further away Jiraiya watched the children chat with each other. _I knew she was plotting something…but I didn't suspect this_, Jiraiya thought, _yet, they do need each other…_

"What about a historian like your Dad?" Naruto asked. Kyosuke's face soured, _I have no intention of being just like Jiraiya-sensei or like Kakashi-nii…_

"No, I want to make a way for myself that's different from everyone else, I want to do something that's uniquely me. I'm just not sure what that is," Kyosuke replied.

"Well what are you good at?"

"Woah woah!" Kyosuke blushed, "Why don't you tell me about you?" _Itachi is right, I still act like a girl…_Kyoko thought.

"You sure do blush a lot."

"Yeah, people tell me that a lot," Kyosuke answered turning an even darker crimson. "So what…" Kyosuke noticed a group of children a little ways a way. "HI!" He waved excitedly at the children._ If I can get other kids to play with him then maybe he won't be so cold,_ Kyoko thought.

"Why are you playing with the monster?" a boy hollered back. Kyosuke frowned standing up.

"Why are you such a jerk?" Kyosuke demanded. Kyosuke felt a rock pelt him in the shoulder.

"Why are you defending the monster?" the boy hollered again.

"Why are you acting like a monster? Honestly your behavior is less than human! And Naruto-kun is NOT a monster, YOU are!" Kyosuke answered. _Time to show these boys what you taught me Mama,_ Kyoko thought rolling up Kyosuke's sleeves. Kyosuke tuned out the boy as an apparition appeared. It was Minato shaking his head, he had taught Kyoko better than that. He dissipated quickly.

"You don't have a comeback this time! HA! What a loser."

"I don't need a comeback for a scumbag like you. All you need is a…"

"WILL YOU JUST GO AWAY!" Naruto hollered charging the kids. He desperately tried to land a blow on the older children.

"Naruto-kun," Kyosuke whispered. Tears came to his eyes before anger began to fill the little boy's heart. He quickly joined the fray forgetting about suppressing Kyoko's advanced training. The kids went down quickly battered and bruised.

"You-You're pretty strong," Naruto muttered as Kyosuke stood up. Naruto observed the boy's face, it was still, quiet even and there was a fighting spirit in his eyes. _Maybe he's seen battle before…_ Naruto thought, no one at the academy looked that way.

"O-Oh yes…" Kyosuke blushed again scratching his head. "My Dad typically has a tutor for me since we move so often, except not this time." The boy's face became lively and jovial. _He can change so quickly_, Naruto thought.

"Are you going to be in the Academy with me?!" Naruto asked.

Kyosuke sighed, "N-No…I want to be."

"Well why not?"

"My Dad said that we won't be here long…so it 'wouldn't make sense' if I was enrolled…" Kyosuke muttered. Kyosuke motioned for them to leave before the children could get up and retaliate, yet he didn't expect them to be able to…well, at least not for a little while. They walked in awkward silence for about ten minutes. A stomach growled slight, Kyosuke chuckled it was Naruto's. Kyosuke smiled impishly, "Hungry?"

"No," Naruto grumbled turning pink.

"_I_ think you are!" Kyosuke chuckled. The brown boy hopped in front of Naruto. Playfully Kyosuke placed his hands on Naruto's shoulders. "Come on, where do you want to go?" He cocked his head with the happiest of smiles.

"A-Ah no no no," Naruto laughed hesitantly. He put his hands up waving them in front of him.

"Come on! Where do you want to go," Kyosuke asked.

"Why don't we meet up tomorrow? Shouldn't you go see what your father is up to?" Naruto replied. Kyoko made a lopsided frown. He squeezed Naruto's shoulders concerned.

"Okay, well next time we're going out. You know this place and I don't!" Kyosuke answered. Playfully he hit Naruto's head. "I'll see you soon alright?"

"Yeah!" Naruto answered.

"BYE!" Kyosuke ran off. _Jiraiya-sensei…_Kyoko thought stopping Kyosuke in his tracks. "I sense an old man."

"Yeah, you do," Jiraiya laughed.

"Hello, and who might you be?" Kyosuke asked suspiciously.

"You've already made yourself known with 'sensing' Kyosuke-kun. An older boy, I think his name was Itachi-kun, told me about your plan," Jiraiya replied. Kyosuke pursed his lips looking away from Jiraiya.

"I'm not here to get you in trouble, I just want you to be careful," Jiraiya answered.

"I know Jiraiya-sensei."

"Hey, I'm worried about you. I want both of you safe," Jiraiya answered.

"Are you going to tell Sandaime-sama?" Kyosuke asked.

"No, but you can't live in this fantasy forever," Jiraiya sighed.

"I know," Kyosuke mumbled.

"Please be careful." Jiraiya placed a hand on his shoulder. "I don't want to see you get hurt."

* * *

><p>"Why did you tell Jiraiya-sensei?!" Kyoko demanded. She had changed back to her normal self.<p>

"I think you're getting in to deep," Itachi sighed. Kyoko was in his bedroom window. She was seething mad, her chest was rising and falling excitedly. Kyoko let out huff of air wanting to slap Itachi across the face.

"_You_ can spend time with your brother. _**I**_ can't!" Kyoko snapped. She left quickly.

"Kyoko!" Itachi sighed getting up out of his chair. He went to the window looking out she was already six houses away. He raced to the entryway to get his shoes on.

"Is Kyoko-hime here?" Mikoto asked. "I thought I heard her voice. It's weird that she didn't use the door."

"No, she's not here."

"Where are you going?" Mikoto asked as her son hastily put on his shoes.

"I forgot to go pick up something for the Princess. She needs me to go pick up her first Pointe shoes," Itachi lied.

"Okay, be back soon," Mikoto answered. He started off at a slow pace thinking of where Kyoko could be and to give her time to cool off. He went to her home first using her spare key to get in.

"Miyana," Itachi called out closing and locking the door behind him. Closing his eyes he listen for sounds of life. _Hall closet_, he thought wandering in. He gently knocked on the door hearing a slight thud on the other side. "Miyana."

"I don't want to talk to you," Kyoko growled. Itachi nodded sliding his back down the wall next to the closet. He would just wait for her to come to her senses. It was rare for Kyoko to act irrationally. Closing his eyes Itachi laid his head back on the wall. He waited twenty minutes and still, Kyoko did not emerge. Itachi sighed, he shifted uncomfortably on the wall. He crossed his legs and closed his eyes again. He drifted to sleep. Itachi woke up to Kyoko climbing into his lap. He stretched his back allowing her to put her head underneath his. "I'm still mad at you."

"I can understand that." Itachi wrapped his arms around her. "If something bad happened they would probably move you out of the Village. I don't want to lose you."

"I understand that."

"I love you too much to lose you. I want you to know that. So I'm sorry that I told Jiraiya-san. I want you to be safe," Itachi answered.

"Thank you,"

"Do you want to come over for dinner?" Itachi asked. She shook her head. "Why?"

"I've caused too much trouble."

"All love is trouble." Kyoko looked up at him appalled. "Let me finish! Love is trouble because we open our hearts to the possibility of heartaches. It pains me that you're mad at me. It pains me that I can selfishly love my little brother and you have to watch yours from a far. So all love is trouble…but it's the best kind of trouble." They heard a knock at the door. Kyoko flinched getting up quickly. She offered Itachi her hand which he took and pulled himself up. They went to the door together.

"Hi newlyweds!" his mother giggled excitedly. Itachi took a step away from Kyoko becoming flustered.

"Mikoto-san," Kyoko mumbled.

"Well Itachi's been gone for about an hour and a half so I knew he had to be here. So I made you two dinner. Itachi-chan~ be good to her! A girl like this only comes around once in a lifetime," Mikoto tried to swat at her son.

"He didn't do anything wrong!" Kyoko yelped. "I did."

"Oh? No, no, Kyoko-hime," Mikoto answered. "The woman is NEVER wrong."

"I got mad at him…I was being immature and nasty," Kyoko answered.

"No, sweetie. He probably provoked you. I know you are a sweetie, Itachi can be dense and blunt. He's at fault," Mikoto replied.

"Mom is always right," Itachi replied wrapping an arm around Kyoko's shoulder. He winked at her playfully.

"OOOHHHH! I can hear the wedding bells! And that beautiful kimono…Oh we have to put on a beautiful ceremony," Mikoto squealed excitedly. "You're going to be the best wife! Make a lot of children alri-Ah….Kyoko-hime?" The girl was missing from the doorway. Mikoto heard the closet door open and close. She giggled slighting cooing tenderly. "She's just like Minato-sama, oh he'd get embarrassed so quickly on some things. Here, Itachi-chan, you two have a good dinner. I also brought you some clothes just in case you wanted to stay the night. Remember, SEPARATE rooms." Itachi bid his mother goodbye.

"She's gone," Itachi called. Kyoko soon emerged. "You know my mother really likes you." Kyoko nodded. "She loves you." Kyoko blushed. "I love you."

"Now you're just teasing me."

* * *

><p>"See you soon Itachi," Kyoko mumbled the next morning. Itachi smirked slightly cupping her chin. He pulled her close kissing her forehead. "DON'T DO THAT!" Kyoko stamped her feet angrily. Itachi laughed seeing her red face.<p>

"I'll see you soon," Itachi replied.

"Hey, will you be coming back?"

"Yeah."

"I love you," Kyoko mumbled.

"What was that?" Itachi asked.

"I said I love you," Kyoko answered.

"I know, I just wanted to hear you say it again."

"Why are you teasing me so much!" Kyoko grumbled.

"This is what happens when you leave. I have to make up for loss time," Itachi placed his hand between her ears quickly rubbing her head. "And I have to be a little more upfront about it."

"Itachi!" Shisui called out. He was with his jittery girlfriend. She looked more confident than she normally did.

"I'm coming," Itachi answered. "My mother must have

"Hello Shisui-san, Kaiya-san," Kyoko called out. The girl was supporting a short pixie cut unlike the bushy hair she had years ago.

"Kyoko-hime, come down here. You wanna hang with Kaiya?" Shisui called out.

"YEAH!" Kyoko cheered. "Let me get my shoes." Shisui chuckled as Itachi looked on.

"Shisui," Kaiya mumbled clutching his arm.

"Hey, it's okay," Shisui cooed. He wrapped an arm around her. "You need to relax my dear."

"I know…but…what about…"

"I won't be gone long," Shisui soothed.

* * *

><p>"I'm a very jittery person," Kaiya muttered looking out the window fearfully. They had sat down to get some tea at Kaiya's favorite restaurant. Kyoko shifted her eyes left and right trying to figure out what brought this on.<p>

"Why?" Kyoko covered her mouth, "I shouldn't be so blunt. I'm so sorry."

"No, it's okay. Shisui told me that I should try talking to other people more, he said especially you." Kaiya's hands began to shake, to calm them she began to wring her napkin in her hands.

"Bu-But, I don't talk to Shisui-san that much."

"Ye-Yes, but you're all what It-Itachi-kun talks about, well you and his brother. You two are really good friends," Kaiya answered. She sighed. "I-I gu-guess, I'll ju-just say it." Kaiya took in a deep breath her hands stopped shaking. "I was stalked for almost three years."

"What?!" Kyoko gasped.

"Shush!" Kaiya snapped. Kaiya sighed again looking out the window blinking away tears. "I…I wasn't always this jittery…My stalker…I'll call him Person X, his name still makes me cry, first started off with simple things at my front door like flowers or a box of chocolate with a note stating, 'your beauty far surpass all others for an Uchiha…Love Mr. Admirable'. It was weird…I didn't understand it. If it was one of us…well one of the Uchiha, we wouldn't use a phrase like that. I thought it was a little cute and…a little creepy…but it started off as only one box and a note every other month. And then it became every month…and then once a week, then when I really started dating Shisui, once or twice a day. Shisui nor I are sensors, I mean we both have the Sharingan but to keep it activate that much causes too much strain…so it was always random. If Shisui stayed up all night to catch him…he wouldn't show up and then when we made breakfast…low and behold another gift. Or a gift would appear when he was i-in the sh-shower. And then when Shisui would leave…he'd leave things in my house. How would he get in?! I'm a shinobi! I shouldn't be so scared of all these things! I'd change the locks and then he'd get in again! I wasn't sleeping, my hair was falling out. He…you know those new things…they're small cameras. He began to send me pictures of me, and of his man parts. It angered Shisui so much. He didn't want to leave…he didn't want me to leave…I stayed trapped in my house. We tried to get the Police Force involved…more patrols…but still he got in! He continued to get in." Kaiya relaxed slightly, "but…we got him…he's away…I think he's away…"

"Why…Why are you…"

"I've been getting some death threats recently…I-I…" Kaiya began to shake, "I wanted to tell everyone…I want to tell everyone so if something happens…" Kyoko grabbed Kaiya's hands. She smiled tenderly.

"Nothing is going to happen!" Kyoko chirped. "Itachi told me how strong you and Shisui are together. None of it will happen. You're a shinobi, and a wonderful one at that! Be positive!"

"I can see why Shisui said I should be around you…" Kaiya whispered tears flowing from her eyes. Kyoko nodded rubbing Kaiya's hands to soothe her.

"Do you want to get the drinks to go? Shisui-san should be picking you up at my house soon," Kyoko asked. Kyoko excused herself from the table getting their drinks. They left sipping the drink quietly. "You'll be okay Kaiya-chan." Kaiya was beginning to shake again, her eyes shifting nervously. "Look it's Kakashi-nii!" Kyoko squealed excitedly.

"Kakashi-nii?" Kaiya asked. The boy's hands were in his pockets, his head forward and down as he walked towards the girls.

"Yeah, it's what I call him at least, he's the closet thing I have to family right now. Kakashi-nii!" Kyoko called out waving enthusiastically at him. He passed her silently. "A-Ah Kakashi-nii?" Kyoko put her arm down puzzled. "Kaiya-san, I'll be right back…" The young girl handed her drink off to Kaiya. _Kakashi-nii never does this…I've heard rumors that he's becoming more distant. Maybe it was a bad idea to move out_, Kyoko thought running after him. "Kakashi-nii," she called out. "Kakashi-nii?" She cocked her head slightly, why didn't he want to talk to her? "Kakashi-nii!" Kyoko snapped grabbing his arm. He quickly pulled it away.

"What?!" he grumbled. Kyoko was taken aback. She took a step back fearfully. There was a dark look in his eyes, it was as if he had to soul. Kyoko's ears twitched as the spirits around them began to moan and groan louder than normal. _Losing control_, Kyoko thought focusing back on controlling her chakra. She shook her head taking two steps closer to Kakashi. She locked eyes with him pulling her ears forward in a more alert fashion.

"What do you mean 'what'?!" Kyoko growled. "I called out to you more than three times. You didn't say anything."

"I have to get going Kyoko-hime," Kakashi replied. He began to turn away only to find Kyoko's hands on his wrist.

"Why?" Kyoko asked.

"I'm busy."

"You live alone and you hardly hang out with your friends anymore. What could _you_ possibly be busy with?!"

"I'm busy you brat!" Kakashi snapped yanking his arm away again. Kyoko flinched. She paused letting the words sink in. Tears began to stream down her cheeks.

"WHY ARE YOU SO COLD?! YOU GET COLDER AND COLDER EVERY TIME I SEE YOU!" Kyoko snapped. She shoved Kakashi running past him. She got to an alley catching her breath. Kyoko let her tears get to her, all of Minato and Kushina's teachings about being a "big girl" pushed to the side as her grief over took her. She let her knees buckle stooping to the ground. She put her head in her knees letting out a quiet cry. She wasn't sure how long she was there.

"Look who it is! The Kinky Collar Whore," Megumi scoffed. Kyoko sucked in air quickly, she had forgotten all about being in public. Kyoko looked up to see Megumi standing on top of a set of trashcans.

"I'm not in the mood Megumi-chan." Kyoko dried her tears standing up tall, her back straighter than normal. Sabanto was behind Megumi standing tall and more confident than normal.

"Of really? By the way you're panting you've already had a night's worth of sex," Megumi sneered. Her copilot snickered in the background. Sanbanto grinned devilishly, it was nice not being the subject of scrutiny.

"Megumi-chan, Sabanto-chan, I would really appreciate it if you left me alone right now." Kyoko's body shook as she dried her tears on her sleeves. Her emotions were mixing together, she didn't know how she felt, was she more angry at Megumi or Kakashi, or was she just upset that Kakashi just called her a brat? Megumi hopped down from her "pedestal". In a playful manner the female Uchiha grabbed Kyoko's collar pushing her into the wall.

"Who was your first?"

"First what?" Kyoko demanded. Kyoko made fists trying to prevent herself from lashing out.

"Your first fuck!" Megumi demanded.

"I have no idea what you're talking about."

"Come on, I bet it was Kakashi-san. You're super friendly with him."

"Leave me alone you bully," Kyoko snapped. Megumi gasped shocked by Kyoko's harsh words.

"You're not going anywhere until you tell me who you've fucked with." Megumi placed her other hand at Kyoko's collar pushing her harder into the wall.

"What got it in your mind that I've had sex?!"

"TELL ME!" Megumi snapped shocking Kyoko into the wall. "TELL ME!"

"Megumi-chan this is the last time I'm going to tell you to leave me alone," Kyoko snapped. "I'm not in the mood to deal with you."

"You've better have not let it be Itachi. I told you that as an Uchiha, I'm going to be his wife." Megumi slammed Kyoko into the wall once more.

"I SAID LEAVE ME ALONE!" Kyoko screeched snatching the girl's wrists. Megumi became paralyzed with visions of ghosts and haunting apparitions around them. Kyoko pushed Megumi away from her breathing hard. Megumi shut her eyes trying to shake away the thoughts. Opening them again, Megumi saw nothing but Kyoko and Sabanto. _It was Kyoko-hime that created these thoughts…she's…she… _Megumi thought shaking fearfully.

"Yo-You stay away from me you monster," Megumi snapped pointing an accusing finger at her. _Wha-What d-did I do? That was never one of my abilities before…Talasu!_ Kyoko thought calming her breathing. Using this opportunity Kyoko ran away.

* * *

><p>"Hello again," Kyosuke said excitedly. Kyoko wanted something positive to end her day so she scoured the village for her little brother. Naruto stood up slowly and cautiously. This boy came around a little too much; he must have had some type of motive.<p>

"You again," Naruto grumbled.

"Yes tis me again, to see the one in front of me," Kyosuke chuckled. Naruto didn't chuckle like he normally did.

"You have a funny way of talking." _Naruto-kun is acting different_, Kyoko thought.

"I'm as unique as one can be. So what are we doing today Naruto-kun?" Kyosuke asked his cheeks becoming flustered again. He heard the boy's feet shuffle away. "A-Ah! Wait!"

"Just leave me alone," Naruto growled. _I wonder what happened…_Kyoko thought.

"But friends don't do that," Kyosuke answered.

"Stop following me," Naruto growled.

"Oh but I don't know about that," Kyosuke answered. "So what's first? Do you want to toss a ball, or perhaps visit the park, or walking around is just as good." Naruto started running Kyosuke quickly followed suit. "This is equally as fun!"

"WHY WON'T YOU LEAVE ME ALONE?!"

"Because I said friends don't do that!" Kyosuke hollered back. He chased after Naruto. _I wonder what happened, he's never done this before…_Kyoko thought. Kyosuke chased Naruto around the Village back to their meeting spot. Naruto collapsed tiredly.

"God you don't quit," Naruto grumbled panting.

"Yeah, friends don't quit," Kyosuke chuckled panting as well. "We've ran over the whole Village. I got to see parts of the Village that I've never been before…thank you." Naruto's cheeks turned slightly pink, it was weird to hear someone thank him.

"You're different from the others," Naruto said sincerely.

"Yes, you said I have a uniquely amazing speech pattern," Kyosuke laughed through his pants.

"I didn't say it like that," Naruto laughed.

"I like to add on lavishments! That isn't a real word but I like it!" Kyosuke chuckled. Becoming serious Kyosuke plopped down on the ground. "Why did you run away from me?"

"I thought you'd end up like all the others," Naruto muttered.

"Nope," Kyosuke answered. "I think we're more similar than you think."

"We'll see about that."

"You'll see," Kyosuke chuckled. "But I must get going…My Dad wants me back so we can move our stuff into our new house. My Dad said we'll be here for a little while…but I don't know if that means two months, a year, or whatever. I'll see you soon okay?" Kyosuke hopped back on his feet offering his hand to Naruto.

"Eh…what are you doing?"

"O-Oh!" Kyosuke pulled his hand away. "I guess I'm being too formal again." His cheeks turned crimson as he waved goodbye to Naruto. Turning away Kyosuke ran towards home. Naruto waved goodbye returning to whatever he was doing again.


	16. Chapter 16

Little Girl Lost Chapter 16

* * *

><p>"Kyoko-hime!" Kakashi gasped.<p>

"Hello…I think I'll live with you for a little while. You were a real jerk a little ways back. I heard that you were back from your mission so…here I am!" Kyoko replied moving bags back into her old room. Kakashi noticed that she looked a little unusual than normal. _Oh no!_ Kakashi thought, he had to meet with Kurenai immediately.

"I'll be right back," Kakashi answered.

"You're being aloof as normal," Kyoko groaned. She heard the door close and shut quickly.

* * *

><p>"Kurenai," Kakashi began.<p>

"Kakashi! I thought you hated us," Kurenai teased. It was strange to hear that Kakashi wanted to meet with her and so suddenly. She sat down at the table letting out a sigh.

"She's beginning to grow," Kakashi answered vaguely.

"What?"

"Kyoko-hime, she's growing," Kakashi replied.

"Growing? Of course, she's still 10 years old."

"No _grow_ing."

Kurenai smiled slightly, "Getting breasts?"

"Y-Yes that."

"Well she's started puberty…you know it's pretty normal for her to start growing breasts at this age."

"And that's what I'm afraid of."

"Well what did you expect?"

"There's more than just breasts,"

"Yeah, just get some books, you like reading."

"What if she gets her period?"

"That shouldn't happen for a while."

"And when it does?"

"Explain that she's becoming a woman. It's not that hard."

"Kurenai, you're a woman."

"Wow! I thought I was a man."

"Enough with the sarcasm."

"That's strange coming from you."

"Kurenai, I really need your help here."

"Get some books, read about it, help her through it. All of this is not that hard. Did she tell you anything?"

"No."

"Pervert."

"What did your parents tell you?"

"They told me that I'm becoming a woman, all about the birds and the bees, menstruation, PMS, bras, what men could treat me like, you know normal things," Kurenai answered. Kakashi bid her goodbye going back home.

Kakashi returned to find Kyoko cooking. He sighed shaking his head. All he wanted to do was be alone, his darkness was only his to shoulder.

"Hello, I made lunch," Kyoko answered. Her ears were flat against he head. She was so relaxed. She was not even trying to be alert.

"What are you doing here? You moved out remember?"

"And, you said that I could come back whenever I please," Kyoko replied in a sassy tone.

"Well you should go back home." Kyoko's ears perked up.

"I'm not doing that," Kyoko answered. "I'll go home and 'visit' but I'm not leaving you. Everyone has seemingly abandoned you…I'm not going to."

"Go home," Kakashi growled.

"Nope, let's have a good lunch okay?"

"How old are you again?"

"About 10 and a half," Kyoko answered. _And I've been seeing Naruto-kun for about six months off and on, and they're none the wiser_, Kyoko thought with a tender smile. _Has it really been six and a half years? _Kakashi thought.

"Did you do anything for your birthday?"

"Ummmm…no not really. I spent it with Itachi and his family," Kyoko replied.

"How are your music lessons coming along?"

"Good."

"Still learning the harp?" Kyoko twitched, she still hated the instrument.

"Always, and the piano and still singing."

"Do you still have time for all that?"

"I do only one instrument a week, or a vocal lesson. So I have to practice a lot."

"Are you still dancing?"

"But of course."

"But you haven't had a recital in three years," Kakashi replied.

"DOES THAT MAKE ME A LIAR?!" Kyoko snapped pounding a fist on the counter. Kakashi noticed her ears press back in anger. Her ears flipped forward as she looked away. "I'm-I'm sorry."

"What is it?"

"Kotono-sensei…has taken away my 'privileges'. Anika-sensei…passed away about two years ago…something about a bad bronchitis…" Kyoko sighed, "Kotono-sensei says…'I'm not the right shade for ballet'. BUT she'll continue to honor our contract with the Third Hokage and continue my private lessons and classes but I'm not allowed to perform publicly. There's only one face to ballet so they say…But that's something I don't believe in. No matter what I do to protest, even Mikoto-san has protested…Kotono-sensei just becomes harder and harder on me." Kyoko smirked slightly, "I'm a better dancer than Megumi-chan…and the harder Kotono is on me…only makes me better than her 'star' pupil."

"Don't get conceited."

"Like Gai-san to you…Megumi-chan is my rival," Kyoko giggled slightly.

"How are you and Itachi?" Kakashi asked.

"Itachi is great! He's been Chunin for a little while. I think he's thinking of joining ANBU. I don't think this is a good idea for him. He's broken like me," Kyoko answered.

"You're not broken," Kakashi growled.

"I still have a lot of secrets I have not told…things that would even surprise a hardened heart like you."

"I didn't ask how Itachi was I asked how were you AND Itachi."

"Meaning?" Kyoko asked her head tilted to the right.

"Have you two kissed?"

"I'm going to go read a book. Lunch is ready if you want it." Kyoko looked down sulking out of the room. "And no, that has not happened."

* * *

><p>"Hey you!" Naruto chuckled at their normal meeting spot.<p>

"Hey you!" Kyosuke cooed back his cheeks turning slightly pink.

"You're a lot like a tomato," Naruto laughed.

"I am not!" Kyosuke's face reddened.

"To. Ma. To."

"And Na. Ru. To~!" Kyosuke sung whacking the boy on the back of his head. "How have you been. You're in the Academy?! What's it like?!"

"I hate school." Kyoko felt her world crash down around her, there was nothing more that Kyoko like was learning, and it was something Minato tried to instill in her early. They read together all the time, and he'd answer any question she had. She felt so happy with a book in her right hand and a pen in the left.

"But school is amazing!" Kyosuke gasped.

"It is not, it's so boring!" Naruto groaned.

"But you can't become Hokage if you don't learn!" Kyosuke answered.

"What's eating you?" Naruto asked. There was such an urgency in Kyosuke's voice.

"I've never been in a formal classroom." Kyosuke sighed looking down at his hands.

"Well you're not missing much you're just watching paint dry. Teachers bounce you around because they think you're a brat," Naruto answered lying back in the grass. Kyosuke sighed again looking to the sky trying to think of what the Fourth Hokage would tell his more feminine side. They sat in silence as an epiphany came to Kyosuke.

"That's why you prove them wrong," Kyosuke said with the gentlest of smiles.

"What do you mean?" he asked looking up at Kyosuke.

"There's a girl in the last town I lived in that I considered my sister. She took care of me when my Dad was out doing research and writing…she did this dance called ballet. I watched sometimes it's very technically difficult. The girl…she looks a lot like me. Well in traditional ballet they don't have a lot of people who look like me. So there's supposed to be a certain 'look' to ballet and this girl was not that, she was dark. Her teacher would single her out for every mistake she made, and it made her angry and frustrated and a few times she'd lash out but that only made the teacher come down harder on her…so I…so I heard that all she does now is smile and trains harder so she won't be singled out anymore!" Kyosuke's eyes were closed and his face was flushed again, but he was still smiling.

"All that blushing probably isn't good for you." Naruto sat up with a slight chuckle.

Kyosuke's face paled with his expression, "Were you listening Naruto-kun?"

"Yeah but you can't change someone's opinion like that." He laid back in the grass.

"Yes you can, they might not admit it out loud but they will begin to change."

"Yeah yeah," Naruto sighed.

"Listen Naruto-kun! Don't brush me off like that," Kyosuke reasoned. His voice turned serious.

"Blah blah blah…"

"Naruto-kun," Kyosuke groaned.

"I guess I could try it but…everyone looks at me like I'm a monster…I don't think people are going to change."

"I don't," Kyosuke whispered with his cheeks slightly flustered. He looked at Naruto with an embarrassed smile.

"Meaning?"

"You have one person who doesn't look at you like a monster, and I'm sure there are more when you really look," Kyosuke answered his blush returning.

"Seriously we should get you checked for that."

"I'm fine," Kyosuke groaned. "Hey, Naruto-kun, it's getting dark why don't I walk you home?"

"What are you my mother?" Naruto asked sarcastically.

"No, but bad things can happen at night," Kyosuke answered.

"Kyosuke-kun, what's it like to travel so much?" Naruto asked.

"It's fun but also you don't have any roots anywhere. I've been travelling all my life. You learn the stories of the people around you but you never make any close friends. You're like my first real friend near my age Naruto-kun," Kyosuke muttered turning a deep crimson. Naruto smiled laughing.

"Hey…you have some advanced training right?!"

"Yeah, what's up?"

"Can you teach me something tomorrow?"

"I can't do tomorrow…my Dad is making me work with him for the next week. So how about in a week?"

"Sure, good luck with your Dad,"

"Thanks. So we're heading our separate ways?"

"Yeah,"

"Be careful,"

"Meh, I'm okay," Naruto shrugged.

* * *

><p>"Genma-san!" Kyoko cooed running up to him.<p>

"You're like a weed, you never stop growing!" Genma laughed.

"Hello Genma-san," Kyoko sighed.

"Hello Princess," he cooed with a wink.

"I have a question for you!"

"I may have an answer,"

"You can do what Papa did,"

"Meh…I might,"

"You and Raido-san and…ah…."

"Iwashi-san,"

"Yes Iwashi-san know it…there must be…"

"How do I know you're worthy of me teaching you it?"

"Because I like you more than Kakashi-nii,"

"Really, then how come you don't call me Genma-nii?"

"Because I call Kakashi-nii, Kakashi-nii out of spite. Sometimes I change it up and call Kakashi-nii, Kakashi-san and then he becomes very uncomfortable. I can call you Genma-nii if you want,"

"Yeah, I want you to call me Genma-nii. I deserve it more than Kakashi," Genma whined in a playful manner.

"Okay Genma-nii, will you teach me what Papa did?"

"No," Gemna said before breaking out in a laugh.

"Is there a technique scroll?"

"Eh…maybe?"

"You're being nasty," Kyoko muttered.

"You're being nasty Genma-nii," Genma corrected.

"I'm not going to stop until you teach it to me," Kyoko answered.

* * *

><p>"Genma-nii," Kyoko cooed. He was sleeping soundly in his bed. Carefully and slowly Kyoko crept towards his bed. Holding her breath she shoved her hands into his stomach. "GET UP GENMA-NII!"<p>

"Kyoko-hime what the hell?!"

"I made you breakfast and I made Kakashi-nii breakfast before I left. So? Eat up!"

"It's 8am…when does Kakashi get up?"

"Um…6ish? EAT or it'll get cold!" Kyoko cooed.

"This won't get me to teach you Flying Thunder God Technique," Genma chuckled. He poked Kyoko in the nose. She groaned leaving his room. _She's a busybody that's for sure…_he looked around his room seeing that she had dusted and tidied up. "Wait…How did you get in my house?!" He always locked his windows and doors.

"Wouldn't you like to know?!" Kyoko called back. She was sitting in his kitchen waiting for him.

"Go home," he groaned.

"But Genma-nii, I want to know what Papa knows!"

* * *

><p>"Kurenai-san!" Kyoko whined running up to her. Tenderly Kurenai opened her arms to Kyoko hugging the girl tightly. Asuma stood back watching Kurenai converse with the young lady.<p>

"Kyoko-hime, it's been awhile!" Kurenai soothed.

"How can I get Genma-san to tell me something?"

"He's being his normal self?" Kurenai sighed.

"Yeah,"

"Act like him,"

"What do you mean?"

"Do you know something that he doesn't know? Like a big secret that he'd want to know," Kurenai answered. "Do you know anything like that?"

"Oh yes!" Kyoko squeaked. _Kurenai was right…she certainly is excitable_, Asuma thought. Kurenai flinched slightly looking back at Asuma.

"Kyoko-hime, I don't think you've ever met Asuma." Kurenai looked back at her friend with a tender smile.

"Hello Asuma-san," Kyoko blushed slightly bowing to the man.

"So you're Kyoko-hime, Kurenai loves to talk about you," Asuma teased. Kyoko blushed slightly. Asuma watched the girl's eyes go in between him and Kurenai. The girl's head cocked to the right slowly as an innocent smile came to her lips.

"Are you Kurenai-san's boyfriend?"

"Ah…!" Asuma stammered.

"No! No he's not my boyfriend! I don't have a boyfriend!" Kurenai muttered turning pink. Catching a familiar scent Kyoko thrust her nose in the air.

"Itachi is nearby, I'll see you later Kurenai-san. Nice meeting you Asuma-san!" She waved to them as she ran away.

"She's blunt," Asuma noted.

"More inquisitive than blunt…but what do you expect when she lives with Kakashi?" Kurenai answered. Turning the corner Kyoko waved as she ran away. Excitedly Kyoko jumped on her friend. She pushed them to the ground.

"Kyoko-hime…your natural energy is getting the better of you," he groaned.

"Nii-san…" Sasuke whined.

"She's not hurting me Sasuke," Itachi replied. "Do you remember Kyoko-hime?"

"Yes…" Sasuke growled.

"Be nice Sasuke," Itachi ordered.

"Kyoko-hime, can you _please_ get off Nii-san," Sasuke demanded.

"No stay as long as you like," Itachi replied sarcastically.

"Alright!" Kyoko cheered.

"NO!" Sasuke snapped.

"Sasuke," Itachi snapped. "Kyoko-hime." She got off of him.

"You promised me!" Sasuke whined.

"You're being a brat," Kyoko replied.

"Kyoko-hime," Itachi gasped.

"Itachi has other friends that are not Uchiha. I'm not stealing Itachi from you. Besides eventually Itachi will have to get married and then he'll spend time with his wife and his family more than you," Kyoko answered.

"Kyoko-hime, be gentle!"

"That's not happening any time soon and it's certainly NOT with you!" Sasuke snapped.

"You never know what'll happen in the future Sasuke-kun," Kyoko answered. "But I must be going Itachi, Sasuke-kun"

"I'll see you later Princess. If you have the time, please stop over after dinner because of Sasuke's rudeness," Itachi answered.

"I don't have the time Itachi, perhaps some other time," Kyoko answered. Itachi hugged her goodbye.

"Sasuke, be kind to her, she saved me when I was little."

"Why? All she does is whine around you."

"Sasuke, why don't you like her?"

"Because she's just like you! She's a more playful version of you!"

"And why does that make you hate her?"

"Just because."

"Then you must hate me too…"

"No! Just her!"

"Come along Sasuke," Itachi sighed.


End file.

Naruto, Drama