Chapter 35: The Beginning of a New Bond

As the sun began to set over the horizon, Team 7 and their companions—now joined by the Konoha 11—had spent the entire day training and bonding with the cubs and pups. The training was different than what they were used to, more nuanced. The cubs were still young, but their natural instincts and chakra were growing stronger with every interaction. Naruto and the others were starting to understand the deeper bond between themselves and their new companions.

Naruto, still slightly embarrassed by the earlier exchange with his yellow Nine-Tails cub, was doing his best to keep a low profile. It wasn't easy, though, considering the energy he always exuded. But the little fox seemed content beside him, rolling over occasionally to nuzzle against Naruto's leg.

"Alright, little buddy," Naruto said, trying to sound calm, "I get it, I'm not a quiet guy. But I promise I'm gonna make you the strongest fox out there!"

The cub yawned, clearly not too concerned about Naruto's promises. But it seemed to accept his words, allowing him to scratch behind its ears.

Might Guy, on the other hand, was full of youthful enthusiasm, practically radiating energy as he ran circles around his wolf pup. "Youth! We'll train and become the strongest team ever, just you and me!" he cheered, his voice booming. His pup, the green one, seemed to respond positively, barking excitedly as it sprinted after him.

Sakura smiled as she watched, her pink-haired cub playfully nipping at the air. "I think it's safe to say they've already bonded," she mused, her voice light with amusement.

Sasuke, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up. His black Nine-Tails cub sat obediently at his feet, its piercing eyes reflecting an intelligence far beyond its size. "I think they're all learning from us just as much as we're learning from them," Sasuke said, his tone unusually thoughtful. "Even if they're still babies, their instincts are already sharp."

"I'm still amazed that they can talk," Kakashi said, leaning back casually against a tree. "And the connection you all have with them... it's different than with the Tailed Beasts. These cubs feel more like... companions."

Obito, who was standing nearby with his wolf pup, nodded. "It's a different bond, that's for sure. But it's still the same. We're all training to make them stronger."

As they chatted, Black Zetsu reappeared, stepping out from behind the shadows as if he had been there all along. He approached the group silently, holding something in his hands.

"I see you're all getting accustomed to the new necklaces," Black Zetsu remarked, his voice as cold and calculated as always. "But be mindful. The true strength of the cubs and pups comes from the bond you share. The communication they now have with you is just the beginning."

Naruto looked up at him. "What do you mean by that? Are they going to get stronger faster because of us?" This work was created by shredder121

Black Zetsu's gaze lingered on the group, and then he spoke, his voice low, like he was revealing a hidden truth. "Yes, but it's more than that. The cubs and pups will grow, but so will your connection to them. As you train them, you will also grow. But understand this: their loyalty lies with Kaguya. No matter where they go or what they do, they will always answer her call if needed. They are not merely pets, but warriors created for a purpose."

Naruto's expression shifted slightly. "So they're... they're not really free, then?"

"In a sense, yes," Black Zetsu said, "but that does not mean they cannot live as they wish, until Kaguya calls upon them. They will follow their instincts, and their loyalty will guide them, but there is no need to worry. Kaguya only asks that they grow stronger and are ready when the time comes."

"Right..." Sakura said, understanding the implication. "So even if they stay with us, their bond with Kaguya will always come first."

"Exactly," Black Zetsu confirmed.

There was a quiet pause as the words sank in. The cubs and pups had been a welcome distraction, something new to focus on. But now, the reality of their situation was starting to become clearer.

"But that doesn't change anything for us, right?" Obito asked, his voice resolute. "They're still our companions. And we'll help them grow, just as we grow together."

"Yeah!" Might Guy said with a passionate fist pump. "They will become part of our youth, part of our way of living! We'll help them grow stronger with our training and youthful spirit!"

Naruto nodded in agreement, giving his cub a pat. "Yeah, it doesn't matter what the future holds. We're gonna make sure they're the best they can be. You're my partner now, little buddy. Let's get stronger together!"

Sasuke, who had been quiet, stood up from his position, his dark eyes glancing at the others. "No matter what Kaguya wants them for, they're with us now. We're not going to abandon them, and we're not going to let them be used. We'll train them, and they'll grow strong, just like us."

Kakashi grinned behind his mask. "Sasuke's right. We're all in this together."

As the group exchanged nods and words of encouragement, the cubs and pups seemed to grow even more comfortable in their new surroundings. The bonds were still forming, but the seeds were planted. And with every passing day, they would become stronger—not just as ninjas, but as a team, united by their shared connection to these remarkable creatures.

With that thought, they set off toward the training grounds once more, ready to continue their training and grow together. And, unbeknownst to them, Kaguya watched from afar, her eyes hidden but her thoughts clear.

Her plans were unfolding, but for now, she allowed her creations to live freely. The time would come when their loyalty to her would be tested—but until then, they would continue to grow, just as she had intended.