The Child Of The Star

Chapter 36

The arena had been repaired for the final round between Sasuke and Gaara. Mikoto, Anko and Kurenai had left but Naruko stayed with Yoriichi who had already recovered and was making his way to the arena. Naruko walked quietly beside him.

Yoriichi: Naruko.

She looked at the taller redhead with a raised eyebrow.

Yoriichi: I know you are smart enough to understand the current situation. There is no need to play dumb anymore.

Naruko looked surprised before she chuckled lightly.

Naruko: I don't even know why am I surprised at this point? Yes, the situation is suspicious with the sand and sound.

Yoriichi: It's an invasion. Oh, and congratulations on becoming a toad summoner.

Ok, now Naruko was beyond surprised no one other than Mikoto and Jiraya should have known about it. As if knowing the unanswered question Yoriichi answered.

Yoriichi: That frog caused havoc in the forest even someone living under a rock would know about it.

Naruko: Are you upset with me? Is it the toad contract? I can cut it off if you want-

Yoriichi stopped and looked at her. Yoriichi always knew her eyes were the window to her emotions. He got to a knee and put a hand on her shoulder.

Yoriichi: I am not upset. You can keep the contract Naruko. As for how I know? I watched you doing your best to remain on the giant toad's back. I watched you all day long and trust me when I say this. I am proud of you.

Naruko couldn't hide the smile on her face.

Yoriichi: Now do tell me. Do you meet the fox?

Naruko: Yeah I did. The old pervert hit the seal with some kind of key before my chakra stabilized. I couldn't use the red chakra before after coming out of the forest but now I can. As for the fox, it's grumpier than a stubborn old man.

Yoriichi chuckled as Naruko complained about the giant fox.

Yoriichi: I think you know about Gaara too.

Naruko nodded there was a sad look on her face that Yoriichi could understand. After all, he is hated by the civilians just as much as Naruko for protecting her and being an outsider at that but never really was bothered by it. Maybe it was because he was from a different world or he was just more resistant to their toxic words. Yoriichi stood up and put a hand on Naruko's head. He gently patted it. She looked up at him confused and he only smirked back. Stepping back he looked at her in the eyes and Naruko knew Yoriichi would say something dangerous and he would do it. She had witnessed it before and here she bears witness again.

Yoriichi: Let's go save Gaara.

The smile on Naruko's face was so wide that it felt like it would split her face in half. The two made their way to the viewing area. Taking a seat next to Mikoto, Anko and Kurenai. Anko looked at them with a raised eyebrow.

Anko: What took so long?

Yoriichi looked back at Anko with a smirk confusing her before he could say anything Naruko popped up from behind him and spoke.

Naruko: Just making a promise!

Kurenai: Oh and what would that be?

Yoriichi: It's a secret~

Anko: Aw~ I like secrets~

Soon the fight between Sasuke and Gaara was announced. They analysed each other. Yoriichi looked at Mikoto.

Yoriichi: Worried?

Mikoto: Can't help it. He is my son after all.

Yoriichi: Then he'll survive. He is your son after all.