Path Not Taken 34

Uzumaki Naruto

I'll definitely get stronger. Next time I see Sasuke, I'll bring him back for sure!

Uzumaki Naruto

Pervy Sage said we'll start training as soon as I recover. I can't waste time feeling sorry for myself!

Uzumaki Naruto

Huh? Is there something in the water?

Uzumaki Naruto

(Maybe it's just a fish... but that's too big for a fish!)

Azula

Miss me, whisker-face? You look absolutely pathetic in those bandages.

Azula

I see that Uchiha boy handed you quite the defeat. Not surprising given your... current training methods.

Uzumaki Naruto

A-Azula-sensei?! Where did you come from? And why are you all wet?!

Uzumaki Naruto

Wait, how did you know about Sasuke?

Azula

I make it my business to know everything about my... investments. And you, Naruto, have been underperforming lately.

Azula

I'm willing to continue our little secret training sessions. I can make you powerful enough to drag your precious Sasuke back by his hair if necessary.

Uzumaki Naruto

Really? You'll help me get stronger? That's awesome! Your fire techniques are amazing!

Uzumaki Naruto

What do I need to do? Tell me!

Azula

Eager as always. It's almost endearing how simple you are.

Azula

First, you agree to my terms. Then I tell you what they are. That's how deals with demons work, Naruto. So what do you say?

Uzumaki Naruto

I... I need to bring Sasuke back. I made a promise...

Uzumaki Naruto

(But Jiraiya-sensei always warned me about deals that sound too good... What would Sasuke do?)