What If Naruto Got Tired of Kakashi Not Training Him and Received Special ANBU Training?

Chapter 1. Wait up, Naruchan. A small boy of 13 shifted in his bed at the sound of the voice. You're it, Naruchan. Catch me if you can. Sweat covered his blonde forehead. No fair, Narut. The boy shifted again, his breathing picking up. This is so much fun, Narachan. The boy kicked his sheets off his body, showing his naked chest with strange markings on the boy's stomach. You're leaving, Naran. Tears escaped the boy's closed eyes, creating a river over the whisker marks he had. Three on each cheek. "Look out," the boy whimpered. "Run, Naruto." Another whimper, this more of a small sob. I'm so sorry. Narukun. I'm sorry. The boy's eyes snapped open with a cry, showing his beautiful blue eyes as he got himself under control. tears still leaking from his eyes. "That voice again," the boy wondered to himself as he used his arm to wipe the tears away. "Ever since I became a ninja, I've been hearing that same voice whenever I sleep. No visions, just a voice." Nar sighed and stood up. Guess I better get a start on my day. Don't want Sakurachan to break my door down again. Naruto walked to his bathroom and started his shower. I hope we get something better than chasing that cat again. I want something more, like a C-ranked mission or something. Half an hour later of thoughts, the boy got out of his shower and dressed into his orange jumpsuit and ninja gear again with a scowl. I hate this thing. The only reason I wear it is because I can't afford anything else. The teen walked into his kitchen and looked into his fridge, frowning at the empty space. He went over to the cupboard and opened it, growling at the sight before him. Ramen. Nothing but ramen. When was the last time I actually had a good meal? Oh yeah, when I was eight and had just joined the academy. The only food I can afford. How I survived only I can guess. The blonde pulled a cup of ramen off the shelf and started the hot water. Stupid fox. I took all its blame for years. The blonde sighed and waited for his water to boil. He looked to his clock and groaned. Damn it. I got 10 minutes to get to my team's meeting grounds. Looks like I'm eating on the go. Once the water came to a boil, Narudo poured the water into his ramen cup and grabbed a pair of chopsticks before he headed for the door. He reached for the doororknob when it suddenly blew open and knocked him back from the force of the person on the other side. He collided with the wall and his ramen cup flew through the air and spilled all over the floor. The boy rubbed his head and glared up at the doorway. Nar. The boy inwardly growled as he put on a fake grin as a pink-haired girl walked into the room with a raven-haired boy behind her. Sakurachan Sasuke team, what are you doing here? I was just Dash. Shut up. The pink-haired girl brought her fist down and glared at the boy with her emerald eyes as Sasuke looked around the very small apartment with a raised brow. Narut lives here in this dump. You're late again, you idiot. Kakashi sensei sent us to get you. Naruto blinked in confusion and looked to the clock on the wall. But Kakashi sensei told us to meet at 7. It's 6:52. The girl growled. You idiot. Don't you know how to change your clocks? It's not 6, it's 9. We need to get going before we get in trouble for your tardiness. Kakashi has a mission already lined up for us, and you better not make Sasuke Kuan look bad again. The pink-haired girl turned and stomped out of the room with Sasuke rolling his eyes to her. "Hurry, dope. I don't want to hear her whine the entire day." Nar glared at his teammates's back as they left and stood to his feet. He looked to the place of his fallen breakfast and growled. "Damn it! Shadow clone jutzu." Three exact copies of the teen appeared and he looked to it. "Clean that up and fix the door. I guess you can clean up the rest of the house, too." The three nodded and started to clean up. As the boy started his way out of his apartment, "Hurry up, Baka!" Sakura shouted to the boy as he descended the steps. He put on his huge grin and hurried after them. The three of them walked across the village until they came to the bridge where they found a silver-haired man reading a book with his only visible eye leaning against the rail of bridge. "Oh, good. You made it just in time." The man looked up from his book with a single eye smile. We have a number of things that need to be done today, so let's get to work. Hours passed and the group had done three missions that day. The first was putting up a fence for a local farmer where Narut had gotten blamed for not doing any work, therefore getting a large amount of his pay split between Kakashi, Sasuke, and Sakura. The second mission was walking the dogs at the Inuzuka Animal Clinic, where once again, Naruto got blamed for injuring one of the dogs that already had a broken leg. Needless to say where his pay went. Even though Hannah Inizuka argued his case against the boy's employer, the last mission of his day was finding that damned cat tora again. That was the only mission that he had gotten paid for. The boy hung his head as they walked out of the Hokag's tower with their mission payments for the day. He looked at the 75 Rio he had earned and crumpled it in his fist as Sakura turned to him with a sneer. See, that's what you get for slacking off, Narutbaka. I hoped you learned your lesson. Naruto flinched back at those words as the silver-haired Jonan just stared at his book. All right, team. Same time, same place tomorrow. The man exploded into smoke as the girl turned to Sasuke. Want to go out with me? Sasuke Kuan? Nar didn't even bother to stay for the rest of the routine. He turned towards the Hokag monument and started walking. >> No. Sasuke walked away towards his compound as the girl frowned and started her own way home. Narut reached the top of the monument and looked around the area before he pulled out a small scroll from his back pocket. He rolled it out and with a pinch of chakra, a bottle appeared where the kanji is and thought I didn't listen to him. The boy rolled the scroll up and put it back in his pocket. He grabbed the bottle and walked to the middle of the first hoag's head. He tore the seal off and took a large gulp of the sake. Once again, I've become the bane of Kenoha. Yay me. He took another long drink when a voice entered his ears. What would she say if she saw you now? The boy just shrugged. Call me a [ __ ] and punch me in the face once again, just like she always does. I was talking about underser, not the pink-haired banshee. Nar laughed out loud. You don't even know the name of whoever you're talking about. You foolish boy. What happened to you? You used to be so full of life. No masks were in your life. Naruto frowned. Nothing happened to me. I just happened to keep living when I wish I were dead. The boy looked to the bottle in his hand. To the man who built the village hidden in the leaves. The boy tipped the bottle over and allowed sake to spill out onto the head before he move on to Naidame's head. To the man who was an important part in building Kohaa, he repeated his action and moved on to the third head. To an old man that can't even use his power properly. He spit on the man's head before moving to the last head. Finally, to a man that damned me to a life of hell intentionally without anyone to care for me whatsoever. Nar slammed the rest of the sake back before throwing the bottle down to the ground where it broke. Two out of four have my undying respect. You two can burn in hell. Narut walked to the spot between the first and second Hokag and sat down, watching the sky light up with a brilliant sunset. Don't you remember who I am? Nar snorted. My conscious, the little voice in the back of my head that tells me what's right and wrong. The only voice that will answer me fairly since the fox is probably laughing his tails off because his container is such a weak fool. So, you really don't remember me? The boy laughed coldly like I care if I remember or not. I have no choice. I need to wake you up. The boy blinked in confusion when a pain erupted in his head. He gripped the sides of his head and fell back with a silent scream until he blacked out. Forgive me, Naruto. The boy woke up before a large cage in a sewer. He narrowed his eyes at the red glow coming from behind the bars and growled. QB correct kit. The massive fox came towards the cage bars and looked down to him. You have changed since that trip to Narut rolled his eyes. Trip to where? That's the second word you haven't been able to say. QB narrowed its eyes. Something must be stopping me from reminding you of your memories from underser. The old man must be behind this. Narut shrugged. Oh well, not like it would help me any. Now what the [ __ ] do you want? I was wallowing in self-pity before you pulled me here. The fox frowned. You don't remember anything about me then? Naruto laughed. Remember you? I don't need to remember what you did to my life. I live it. The stairs, the names, the hate, all of it. You ruined my life because of your attack. Q.B. flinched back at the boy's words. "I explained it to you before. It wasn't my fault." Nar rolled his eyes. "You did nothing of the sort." Nar turned his back to the fox. "Where's the damned exit? Your memories must be blocked. That has to be it." The boy turned back to the large Beiju with an amused look. Your tricks aren't dash. I swear it. On all of my tales, I swear something must be wrong with your memories. Nar chuckled coldly. No, nothing wrong with my memories. Something wrong with you trying to escape. Nar started to walk away. Please, let me help you. Nar froze and turned to the large fox with a glare. You've helped enough with making it hell. Then let me make it better. I can teach you. Nar thought for a moment while a smirk formed on his lips. Oh, what can you teach me? Huie grinned. Anything you are willing to learn. Medical jutzu. Nin jutsu. Everything. Narut walked back towards the cage. And what exactly do you get out of it? Q. frowned. To prove I'm telling the truth. Nar nodded. Fine. What needs to be done? Q.Bi nodded. Just wake up. Hokag sama. Here is the payroll report for the day. Raa Yumino walked into the Hokag's office with a bundle of papers while the old man behind the desk looked up from the paperwork. All right, thank you. The Hokag took the paperwork and started looking through it. Lord Hokag, I best tell you that Nar has once again gotten several pay deductions on two of the three missions he's done today. He only received payment for Torah again. The hokag side and placed them down on the desk. He's been getting them for the last two months. He's been a jennon. It seems that I really do need to look into this now. This has gone on long enough. Raa, please fetch U skull, please. Araka pald and nodded as he rushed to locate the second most feared u in Kenoha. 10 minutes later, a shimmer of light gave way to a man dressed in all black with a white skull mask. He had a midnight black katana strapped to his back and two black canai holsters, one on each thigh. Around his waist was a black utility belt with two black weapon pouches and a black medical pouch. You summoned me, Lord Hokage. The man's voice was a low growl. The Hokag nodded and held a bundle of papers, all with the name Narut written on them. These are the past two months of payroll for Narut Uzumaki. Look them over and tell me what you notice. The umbu took the papers and started to look through them. He's had deductions on all his missions except retrieving the fire lord's wife's cat. The most he ever made on those missions, excluding the missing Torah missions, was 75 Rio altogether in one day. Someone is either lying or Kakashi's not doing his job of keeping Nar in check. Sarobi nodded. That's the exact reason I called you here, Skull. I need you to tail Naruto's team for the next two days and see just what the hell is going on. I will not give his team the missing Torah mission for the next week. I want to see just what Kakashi is doing. You will be my eyes and ears. The man nodded. If I find Kakashi or the employers guilty, Hokag sama. The old man took a drag from his pipe. Do nothing unless it's an emergency. I will start following Nar right away. Hokag sama. The man bowed and vanished from the room without a trace. The Hokag sighed and opened his desk drawer to pull out a single request form and stared at the name. Maybe you were right, Durro. Maybe I shouldn't have placed Kakashi as the team sensei. Nar stood before a tree in the forest that covered the surrounding cliff of the Hokag monument. He held his arms out to his side as he concentrated on the exercise Q.Bi had given him. He had to make a bunch of leaves float an inch above his skin for one full hour before he had to add another leaf to the bunch. You're doing great, Narakuan. Have your clone add two more leaves. If you can hold this for one more hour, you'll have mastered the exercise and we'll move on to the next one after your missions tomorrow. No, I'm going to keep training for the entire night. You wanted to help me, so I'm putting you to use. Q.B frowned behind its cage as Nar continued the exercise. I don't want to hear that girl's voice again. Not tonight. Nar continued his exercise for the next hour. Neither him nor his demon aware of the pair of eyes watching him intently. H last I checked, Nar had no knowledge of chakra control exercises. At least that's what reported to the Hokag and Kakashi. After that, the U relaxed in the tree as he watched the boy for a full hour. He watched Narut sigh and the leaves dropped to the ground. The boy crossed his arms as a faraway look entered his eyes. Is he thinking? No, he's talking to the fox. So, that means she's reawaken. Good. Maybe that dumbass mistake the Hokag made will be fixed now. The U looked to the sky and sighed silently. I wonder what they would say if they saw him now. Get out of here. Go. Naruto's eyes snapped open as he shot up from his spot on the ground. The boy had fallen asleep from exhaustion with training himself how to tree walk. He groaned and rubbed his face again. But this was a different voice. There your suppressed memories trying to break free. Whatever is holding them back must be pretty strong to keep me from saying names or from you remembering them. Nar snorted and stood to his feet. He looked to the sky and frowned. I'm going to be late. Oh well. Not like Kakashi will be bothered by it. The boy started to walk away when he grunted from a headache. What the? But I didn't clean the apartment. My clones did. Nar blinked and looked back to the tree that had a bunch of slash marks from his canai that reached only a fourth up the tree. He created a shadow clone and threw a canai at the halfway point of the tallest tree he could find. Do the tree walking exercise until you can reach the canai and dispel yourself. The clone nodded and started the exercise while Nar turned back towards the village and started to leave. What are you doing? An experiment. The clones from yesterday had just dispelled themselves and I got their memories. I'm wondering if it will work for training as well. Q.B nodded and started to think. That could become very handy. If it works, you could create a massive amount of clones and learn techniques that would normally take days in just a day. Nar nodded. And with you sealed in me, the memories from each clone should be able to be filtered at a much less fatal rate since you heal all of my injuries. Therefore, if the theory works, I'll be able to have my clones work on more than one thing at a time. Naruto came out of the forest to the top of the Hokag monument. He narrowed his eyes down at the village. I wish I didn't live in the village. The forest is much nicer than the rat hole I live in. Well, I think I might know a way to remedy that, but I would have to check to see if you have the bloodline to do it. If not, I guess you'll have to build it from scratch. Naruto rose a brow as he walked his way down the steps that led up to the top of the mountain. Bloodline. Which bloodline? The bloodline of the shame hokag. The wood manipulation kekai Jenkai. There is a jutzu that allows you to create a house made of admittine wood. The wood is just as strong as its brother adsium or which just so happens to be the strongest metal in existence. The more chakra you use in the building of the house, the bigger and stronger the house would become. If admitten isn't your style, then you could always learn to use the four-pillar house jutzu. Another would jutzu. Nar nodded as he walked through the streets of the village towards his team's hangout. Let me guess. You need me to do something before you check my DNA out, right? Q.B Dubie shifted a bit and nodded. "Yes, I need you to tear off 1/4 of the seal. Doing so will allow me to roam your mind and let me see if you do have any bloodlines. In exchange, your senses will become stronger. Your chakra control will level out a bit, but you will have to start over from scratch. You will also gain an increase in your current regeneration abilities, and you will gain the ability to use one tail of my chakra until you train and get stronger with it." Nar thought about it with a smirk. What exactly do you get out of this? The fox frowned. I get to feel the outside world again. Nar shrugged his shoulders as he walked onto the bridge his team usually hung out at, finding no one there. Am I late or early? Nar wondered to himself as he looked around. He sighed, not spotting anyone, and walked over to where the tree was. He sat down under it and frowned. What should I do while I'm waiting? you could come in and take care of the seal. The response came out from the fox in the form of a question and Naruto nodded. That could work. After that clone dispels my theory, we'll have an answer and then since you said we would have to start from scratch, I can make a thousand of them and have them split into tree walking and leaf floating. Is there anything I should know beforehand about the stronger senses? Well, the main ones that will be affected will be your sight, smell, and hearing. Your taste and touch won't change too much, but the other three will be very strong. It'll take you a half hour to get used to all three of them together, and they'll hurt a bit, but you'll be fine." Narut nodded and closed his eyes, feeling himself get drawn into the seal. He walked up to the seal and took hold of it before he carefully tore one/4 of the seal away. "There, it's done." Nar faded from the mine space as a teenage girl walked out from behind the bars of the cage with nine long red tails. She stood the height of a normal 21-year-old with long blood red hair that reach her midback and two fox ears hidden at top her head. Her blood red eyes gazed at the spot Naruto once stood as a frown graced her whiskered face. She wore a simple red kimono that had a beautiful flower design with a green sash around her waist. Oh, Naruto, if only I could do more for you. Nar opened his eyes only to squeeze them shut again in pain. He slowly opened them back up, blinking a few times to try and focus them, only for everything to come in a bit blurry. The sound of footsteps reached his ears, and he clapped his hands over his ears in pain at the thunderous noise. "What's with you, Dob?" Sasuke asked as he walked across the bridge to where Narut was sitting with his ears covered and gritting his teeth in pain. Sakura, who was behind him, just scoffed and pointed at the boy with an amused look. "Probably did something stupid again. I'll bet he ate something bad without thinking like he always does. Nar glared up at her, his blue eyes coming into complete focus. He growled and stood to his feet. No, I was just experimenting with something and channeled chakra to my ears. When I heard you two coming across the bridge, it was so loud I thought I was right next to a bomb. Sakura glared and walked up to the boy. You idiot. Are you calling me loud? The pink-haired girl punched the boy in the face and sent him flying into the tree. A pair of eyes narrowing at the sight as he watched from a nearby tree. Like you could have thought of something that basic dope. If you would have paid attention to then you would know how to do it properly without hurting yourself. Sasuke spouted as he leaned against the rail of the bridge while Narut sat up and rubbed the bump on his head from impact with the tree. You're so right, Sasuke. Even I know how to do it. The umbu in the trees narrowed his eyes at the group. Academy dead last. Rookie of the year with a stick up his ass and a Haruno fan girl. What the hell were you thinking when you put this team together? Hokag sama. Skull thought to himself as he watched the three for another hour. During the hour of waiting, he watched as Sakura asked the Aiha out on a date every 5 minutes only for the boy to reject her and for Narut to jump in and ask her out only for her to punch him in the face again. Okay. Kakashi is being his usual tardy self, I see as it's been an hour since the three of them got here. The Aiha is cold and if my guess is right, doesn't do teamwork just like the rest of his clan except before he turned nuts. The Haruno is a fan girl that if my guess is correct about her, has little to no training at all besides the academy and book smarts. There is also the possibility, however, that Kakashi has been teaching her genutsu due to the low amount of chakra she has. From what I can feel, from as far as I can tell about Naruto, he's had no training from either Kakashi or the academy. Only the things that he was self-taught, Kakashi is not doing his job then. Treew walking is the first thing all the Jonan should teach their students before taking any C-ranked missions. If this team somehow gets a C-ranked mission, then they will be in more trouble than properly trained academy students. Hell, it was academy regulation to be able to do the leaf floating exercise, henge substitution, clone, and one elemental jutzu before you graduate. I will need to report this to the sandame as soon as my mission ends tomorrow. It was 2 hours later from the time that Narut arrived at the training grounds that Kakashi appeared in his usual fashion. Sorry I'm late. A black cat was crossing my path and I had to take the long way around to avoid bad luck when a dog was chasing a cat up a tree. Liar!" Sakura yelled out as Narut rolled his eyes. Kakashi gave them the usual I smile. "Okay team, today we have two missions and then we'll do some training." The group nodded and followed the man to the Hokag tower as he pulled out his book. Skull followed the group unnoticed all the way into the mission office at the tower and then to the mission site. They arrived at a nearby shop where an old man awaited and Skull narrowed his eyes at the glare the old man sent at Nar. So, Kakashi Sanan, you're here to take care of my mission request. Eh, Kakashi nodded, not taking his gaze from his book. All right, then. Harunosan. Aihasama. Boy, your mission is to take all the boxes off this cart here and take them around to the storage room in the back. If any of the box's contents are damaged, it's coming out of that person's pay. The group nodded as the man pointed to the door in the alley next to his shop. That door there leads to the storage room and has already been unlocked. I'll sort out the stuff myself. Just put all the boxes in there. The man moved away from the cart and looked to Kakashi. All right, team. Let's get started. Kakashi leaned against the wall as Narut, Sakura, and Sasuke walked up and started to unload the cart and take the boxes to the storage room with the old man watching the three. An hour later and 30 heavy boxes later, the final box was put away into the storage and the three students met up with their teacher. Great job, Haruno San Aihasama. You did very well. You boy did very poorly. You hardly even did any of the work and made your teammates do it for you. You're not getting a scent out of this payment. The man handed the money the mission was worth to Kakashi. Kakashi, go ahead and split the payment between the three of you. I thank you for your team's assistance in helping me with my new shipment while my daughter was away on a mission. Kakashi I smiled and nodded. You're welcome, sir. It was our pleasure. Kakashi and his team along with a hidden fuming Skull U left back for the tower. The entire way Skull was trying to not release his killing intent at Kakashi or the old man. Skull followed them on to their next mission which happened to be at the local park near the northern gates. The mission was to help the lady who ran the orphanage watch over the kids as they played in the park. The lady said they were staying at the park until 3 and then they could leave. Skull watched the entire mission go smoothly. The really young kids took to Naruto like glue and the lady didn't like that. When 3:00 in the afternoon came around, the lady gave the mission payment to Kakashi with a complaint of her own about Nar. That brat wasn't even doing his job. He slept on the sidelines while your other two students did all the work. I recommend some disciplinary action, Haki sama. He gets no pay for being lazy. Kakashi nodded absent-mindedly and took the mission payment. They headed back to the Hokag tower to get their payment for the day. The lady at the desk sneered at the boy as she took the mission payment from Kakashi. Would you like another mission, Hataki Sama? Kakashi shook his head with an eye smile. No, we're done for the day. Any complaints from the employers should be included with the mission reports. The lady nodded and pulled out the first missions report and then took the second mission report. So, he's still screwing up, I see. Kakashi sama, I wish you would do something about that boy. He's gotten complaints on all his missions thus far. I would suggest sending him back to the academy. The lady shrugged as she pulled out several envelopes and started to place money inside them. But that's just me. Anyway, here are you and your two students payments, and I'll see you tomorrow. Kakashi nodded and handed Sasuke and Sakura an envelope each. All right, team to the training ground. You have 5 minutes to get there. If you're late, then I'll make you do laps until we stop. Kakashi popped into smoke and the three took off as quick as they could. Once the three had taken off, Skull vanished as well, heading straight for the training ground that he knew from the reports the Sandame gave him was the team's training ground. 10 minutes after he arrived at the training grounds, the three jennon arrived, all three out of breath, while Kakashi shook his head. You're late, Nar, start running the lake. Sakura, work on your gen z jutsu from the scroll. And Sasuke, I have a fire scroll for you. Skull growled loudly before he silenced himself and moved. Kakashi looked around with his one visible eye as Narut growled and started walking away from the team. Nar, where are you going? The boy looked over his shoulder with a glare. To find someone that will actually put time into training Naruto Uzzumaki, not the demon you and the rest of this damned village see me as. Sasuke rose a brow as Sakura walked up to the boy while cracking her knuckles. Apologize to Kakashi sensei Yubaka. At that moment, something inside Nar snapped. Nar growled and caught the fist the girl threw at him and started to add pressure. No, you pink-haired [ __ ] With one powerful squeeze on the girl's fist, her screams of pain filling the air. Nar then took hold of the rest of her arm as her screams caused Kakashi to narrow his eye and rush at the boy. Narut turned and tossed Sakura into the lake and looked to Kakashi. You want me, find me. Thousands of clones filled the training grounds with a single seal and Kakashi cursed as Narudo ran off towards the village while the clones blocked his path. Kakashi started to cut down the clones. Not seeing the blonde boy escape, he continued to cut them down until one was left and it exploded with a smirk. Skull chose this moment to drop out of the tree and walk towards the silver-haired Jonan that turned to him. You [ __ ] up big time, Hitaki. The silver-haired man pald a skull glared at him through his mask. I don't think I'll need tomorrow to assess your Jonan sensei status. Kakashi Hitaki, Jonan Sensei of Team 7. As of right now, you are removed from your duties as a sensei until the Hokag determines your fate. Get your student out of the lake and take her to the hospital. You will all report to the Hokag office first thing in the morning or risk immediate imprisonment. Skull vanished from the field as Kakashi looked to the lake and saw Sakura struggling to reach the shore. Skull walked into the Hokag's office unannounced and glared at the two people that sat before the man. Sarobi rose a brow and looked to the man. Can I help you, Skull? Mission is complete ahead of schedule. The Hokag nodded with a raised brow. Hamura Koharu, I will speak with you later. Please leave. The two rose a brow and left the room. The old man watched as the umbu clenched and unclenched his fist. Report. Team 7 is a complete disgrace to our shinobi ranks. I found Narut Uzumaki yesterday and started to watch over him as you had asked. Once the day had started, I tailed him to his training grounds where shortly after Nar arrived, Haruno and Aiha arrived. An argument started about Nar experimenting with enhancing his senses with chakra. Haruno is a violent Aihaobsessed fan girl as she had punched Narut in the face twice. Two hours the team waited for Kakashi and the entire time Achiha ignored his teammates while Haruno continued to ask the boy out. Nar however learned from the first two punches and sat away from the two with a headache from both punches and his experiment. 2 hours after Naruto's arrival to the meeting area, Kakashi arrived where he gave a lame excuse and took his team out on two missions. The first mission was from Caohouhidori, owner of the weapon shop the blue claw. He addressed the team by first name for Kakashi, last name for Haruno and Aiha, and called Narut Boy. The mission was to take the man's new shipment into the storage room, and they did exactly that. Kakashi, however, leaned against a wall and read his book, all the while CO watched the three jennon. Once Naruto took the final box to the storage room and returned, the old man praised the other three while he scolded Naruto for doing little to no work and was given no pay. Kakashi didn't argue with the man and reported the mission in before taking another. Their second mission for the day was helping the orphanage caretaker watch the kids while her staff were cleaning the orphanage up. The caretaker took the kids to the park and their team 7 was to watch over and protect the kids from harm. Narut became popular with the younger kids while Haruno and Aiha just watched over them and Hitaki once again stood on the sidelines reading his book without a care. Nar played with the younger kids until the caretaker called the mission to a close. She complained that Nar didn't do anything but sleep while Haruno and Aiha did all the work. Kakashi said nothing and took the team back to the tower to report the mission and once again Nar was given no pay for the mission. I then followed Kakashi to the team seven training grounds and waited. He had given his team a 5-minute time limit to get there or risk running the lake until he said so. The team arrived 5 minutes late and Kakashi gave the punishment to Nar but not to the other two. He offered Haruno a gen jutzu scroll while he offered the Aiha a fire jutzu. Narut started to leave and when Kakashi asked him where he was going, he replied that he was going to find someone to train him that doesn't see him as the demon he is sealed inside him. Haruno walked up to him, ready to punch him once again, demanding he apologized to Kakashi, and he snapped. When the Haruno threw the punch, he grabbed her by the fist and crushed her hand before tossing her into the lake. He created what must have been thousands of clones before he sneaked off towards the village. The Aiha did nothing but watch as his sensei cut down all the clones. And then I appeared. I told him he was suspended from his Joonan duties until you decide what to do with him and report it. here. Saratobi covered his face with his hands. So, not even Kakashi can see past the death of his sensei. Skull, go to the mission office and tella that you completed your mission. He<unk>ll know what I'm talking about and give you your payment. I'll deal with team 7 in the morning. The ambu nodded and started to walk out of the room. Also, Skull, please have Diurro report to my office first thing in the morning. I may have a way to test Kakashi and his team to see just how much of a team they really are. Tell Diurro to prepare for a C-ranked mission to Wave Country. Skull nodded and left the office. The boy could use some pointers. I'll see to him now. Skull walked down the halls to the mission payment office and collected his payment from Raa and vanished, heading for the area where he last saw Nar training the night before. Naruto walked onto his training grounds to see his clone nowhere in sight. Sighing he walked to the tree. Here goes nothing. Wait, Naruto Kuan, remember what I told you? You'll have to start from scratch. Try making 50 clones and cut them down to half for tree walking and leaf floating. Meanwhile, you are going to have to do some physical training yourself. A ninja is nothing with only jutzu and chakra control. Nar nodded and created the clones. I see you figured out the secret to the shadow clone jutzuakisan. Nar spun on his heel and found himself glaring into the mask of Anu. Skull looked to the clones and then to the boy. Allow them to start their work. I'm going to give you some help. Nar narrowed his eyes. Why should I trust you? Skull shook his head. I don't have a reason for you to trust me, but I am being honest when I say I want to help you. Naruto nodded and allowed his clones to start their training. Follow me. The first thing we're going to do is get you some proper clothes and equipment. It'll be on me. Nar watched the man turn his back and start to walk away from the clearing. Trust him, Naruto Kuan. I know I haven't trained you in smelling out lies, but I can tell he's not lying. Go with him. Nar nodded and followed the man. Did you find anything on that bloodline you told me about? Nar asked the vixen, causing her to swear. Damn, thanks for reminding me. I'll look into it now. The U and Nar stayed quiet the entire way to a hidden warehouse on the far side of the village. The U looked around, seeing no one watching and turned to Nar. What do you see? Nar looked to the building and frowned. A old abandoned warehouse that looks like a feather can make it fall. Skull nodded. That's what normal people and weaker shinobi would see. However, what they don't know is that there is a gen z jutzu covering the building to make it look like a warehouse when it is in fact an all- ninja store. My friend owns the place. Now, let's go in and get you some proper gear. Naruto nodded and watched as the umbu walked into the warehouse with the boy closely behind him. Sukun, you here? The u called into the shop and was answered back. Yeah, yeah, keep your mask on, Ambusan. A man walked out of the back room and looked to the two. The man was old and had a long scar going through his left eye, while his other was a bright blue and had short white hair. Ah, Skull, good to see you as always. Who's the brat? Nar glared at the man while Skull looked to the boy. Go find some new clothing. Naruto nodded and walked off towards the clothing section of the store while Skull walked to the counter. You know who the boy is, Sukin. The man scoffed, his one good blue eye rolling. Of course, I know him now that I look at him. The sandame finally gave in to Durro's request. Then Skull shook his head. No. I followed his team around for the entire day. And let's say the village has fallen far since the attack. The man nodded, cleaning his soot covered hands with a white rag. I see. Well, I guess the second best shop in town hates him, right? Skull nodded. I see. then he's welcome here. I'm not going to let anyone push me around like they did while I lived in Dash. You know the law. Skull growled and the man sighed. Damned, Hokag. Hey U, I found some. The two turned to the boy and saw that he had grabbed everything in crimson red and some black. Why red? Nar ignored the old man and placed the clothes onto the counter. Now what? Skull shook his head. Go and gather whatever weaponry you find you might need. Once you have, bring it to the counter and then go over to the jutzu and book section to gather what you feel like learning. Naruto nodded and walked off into the shop. Little brat. Suken muttered under his breath as he looked to the clothes. Looks like he's gotten enough clothes to last him for a few days. Help me sort this out. Skull. The ambu nodded his head and started to help the man take the clothes and put them in neat piles. Narudo had picked out five pairs of black cargo pants, five crimson red undershirts, a pair of black gauntlets, a pair of black boots, a red cloak with a hood, and a black Jonan style vest. The boy had also gotten a plain black umbu utility belt. Huh, not a bad choice in the gauntlets since they got those chakra reacting blades hidden in them. The belt will be useful if he grabs a few weapon and medical pouches. Skull nodded as Narut came back with a few clones holding several different things from the weapon section of the store. They put everything on the counter before heading towards the next section of the store. You do know that you might not have enough to pay for all of this, right? Skull grinned evily under his mask. Bill the Hokag. Sukin laughed and nodded. Oh, what a fine idea. That'll teach him a lesson for what he's done to the poor lad. Skull nodded with a cold chuckle. Now help me with these. The men started to sort out the many weapons the boy had grabbed. One of which was a long sword with a golden handle in the shape of a dragon's head. Sukin picked the sword up and looked at it confusingly. That's strange. I don't remember this being in my inventory. Skull rose a brow as he looked at the sheath. The sheath was a gunmetal gray with five different color dragon heads engraved into it. From the tip of the sheath, it went white, blue, black, red, and green. Strange indeed. So, this is where it ended up. The old man shrugged it off and set the sword down on the counter before sorting through the rest of the weapons. The boy had picked out new canai shuriken, some senbon, a few windmill shuriken, a lot of exploding tags, two crimson red weapon pouches, two crimson red cany holsters, two medical pouches of the same color, a set of chakra weights, and a bunch of blank ceiling scrolls. The kid looks like he's preparing for a war. Sukin shrugged. Not my problem. Nar and his clones came back sukans later with armfuls of books and scrolls on various subjects. Do you have anything on ceiling? Elemental manipulation and creating your own jutzu. Sukin looked to skull and watched the man nod. Sure, it's in the back room. Let me sort this stuff out first and then I'll take you back there. Why don't you take a look around the store another time and see if you find anything you might like? Naruto nodded and walked away while Tuken looked to the pile of scrolls and books that covered the rest of his counter in a giant pigsty. All right, let's sort these out then. I'll start ringing up the bill for the Hokag. The man grinned as he started to sort the scrolls into piles of what they taught. The man picked up a scroll and looked at it curiously before raising a brow at it. Huh? Another item I don't remember being in the inventory. Skull looked up and read the title of the scroll. Style of the five dragons. Never heard of it. Skull lifted a scroll and rose a brow. Ken jutsu style. Five dragons. What's with all the dragon stuff? Sukun shook his head. Okay. Anything with the word dragon on it? Place it in this pile next to the long sword. The two started a pile with the two scrolls that soon grew with the addition of six scrolls by the time the two had finished. Okay, so we have those dragon scrolls and the long sword that he'll get on the house since I can sell anything I don't have in the inventory list. There are 10 N jutsu scrolls, 10 Gen Jutsu scrolls, five medical jutzu scrolls, books on hunting, skinning, a few medical books, a book on poisons, a few cookbooks, a map of the world, and one map for each country that has a hidden village. Okay, maybe the kid is preparing for war. Skull shook his head as Narut came back with two more books. The man took them and placed them on the counter. All right, kid. I'll show you to the back room. Sukin walked around the counter and led the two towards the back room. The room was large with many shelves and tables, while a weapon forge area was in the far corner of the room away from everything else. All right, the ceiling scrolls. I normally don't let anyone by the ceiling scrolls unless they're tunin or higher. However, in your case, I think I can part with a few of them. Wait, I thought this was for U tunin and Jonin only. Narut asked a skull and Sukin chuckled. Yes, normally people would think that. However, that's not true. My policy is those that can sense and break the genutzu are allowed to shop here. Most of my customers are, as you said, Amu, Chunin, and Jonin, as no one is usually trained well enough during their genine years to sense a gen z jutzu as strong as mine, unless they've got a knack for gen z jutsu like Kurin nayuhi did when she was only an academy student. Since you were brought in by skull here, the gen z jutzu will no longer have a hold on you. So, you'll be able to come and go as you please. Now, take a look around, and if you find anything you think you would like, take it off the shelf, and we'll take it to the counter once you're set." Narut nodded and started to look around. Sukin looked to Skull with a raised brow. I wonder what he would want Jutsu creation info for. He couldn't be that strong yet. Skull shook his head. I don't know either. It might be from having such a large amount of chakra that he can't use very many low-level jutzu. I know he's never been able to do a regular clone jutzu due to that very problem. So maybe he thought he could make his own jutzu. I believe it'll be a bonus if he has the fox helping him with the creation or even the learning of jutzu. The man nodded as Narut came back with several books and scrolls in his arms. All right, let's go seal everything up and send you on your way. The group of three headed back into the main part of the store and Naruto watched the man take everything and seal it up into several scrolls before sealing it all in one the size of the forbidden scroll. Now I need to know where did you find those scrolls on dragon jutzu and that long sword? Narut shrugged. They were each in their own sections where the long sword was sitting on one of the weapon racks. I see. None of them are in my inventory so I have no idea how they got mixed in there. Maybe I can ask my daughter when she comes home from training today. Anyway, kid, you're all set. I hope to see you again the next time you need weapons or jutzu. Narut nodded and turned to Skull. What next? For now, this is all I can offer. I'll be able to offer you more when we have more time. For now, however, you should head back to your little training ground and see just how far your clones have gotten. Also, prepare yourself for a C-ranked mission to Wave Country. You're meeting your team at the Hokag's office first thing in the morning. Nar nodded, taking his scroll and heading for the door. He paused and looked over his shoulder. I don't trust either of you, but thank you. Naruto walked out of the shop and headed for his small training area. I see he has trust issues. Skull nodded. With the way his life has turned out, what did you expect? XX Narut Kuan. I have good news. Q.Bi happily called to the boy through their link as the boy made his way up to his training ground. And you have the wood bloodline. Isn't that great? Q.B. grinned to him as he nodded. Yeah, it is. Now I need to learn the jutzu and seals that will help with utilities. Q.B. grinned wider and her tails swished about. Actually, if you allow me, I can set up everything for you. All you need to do is allow me control of your body and I can set up everything to the way you would want it. Nar frowned as he came to the training ground and looked to the entire group of clones that still worked on. I'll think about it now. Should I dispel them all at once or in groups? Personally, I would do it in groups of 10. This way, the information doesn't hurt you. I hope. Nar nodded and mentally started to dispel his clones by 10, grunting each time information and memories entered his mind. Now, why don't you give the tree walking a try, and if you feel up to it, we can start water walking. Nar nodded and started to walk to and then up a tree without even thinking of it. Got it down. Good. Now, to master the tree walking exercise, you will need to be able to jump from tree to tree and stick without even thinking of it while you're fighting. We'll work on that later. For now, try to find the nearest river by using your nose and ears. Narudo sighed and closed his eyes, concentrating on sound and smell. He heard the sound of rippling water in the distance and started walking towards it with his scroll strapped over his shoulder. He came out to a large lake that fed a nearby river. Good. You know, this would be a perfect place to make your new home. I mean, if I do it right, I can make it so your house is on both land and water. Like right over there by the start of the river. If you want, I can create your home half on land and half on water. I like that idea. Okay, you win. I'll let you create the house and the seals needed for the utilities, but make sure it doesn't ruin the river or the lake. Q.B QB nodded excitedly and felt Naruto's control over his body slowly slip to her. Nar closed his eyes and once they opened again, they were a crimson red. Q.B. used her control over the body to run down to the river start and started to run through hand seals. With style, House of the Admitt forest jutzu, Q.Bi slammed her palms to the ground and started to concentrate on the jutzu. First, nothing seemed to be happening when suddenly it started to rise out of the water and started to form a house. The entire process took hours and once it was finally finished, Q.Bi grinned tiredly at the house before her just like he wanted it be. Four. The red eyes of the kitsoon rolled back and she fell forward to the ground with a smile on the boy's face. Naruto. XX. Dad, I'm back. A brown-haired girl walked into Tukan's shop, and the old man nodded. "I can see that," 10en. The girl grinned and rushed off towards the weapon section of the store. "We've been robbed." The old man jumped at the sudden shout and ran to check on what his daughter was talking about. "What do you mean, 10?" The bun-haired girl turned and he saw the anger in her beautiful brown eyes. There was a sword back here that I had right here on the display case. It was a long sword with a gold handle in the shape of a dragon and its sheath had five different color dragons dash. Oh, I sold that already. Tenten looked to the man with wide eyes. Why? Why you sold it? As in someone bought it. Sukun nodded. Yeah, why? Tenton's face grew furious. I wanted that sword. I was saving all my mission money for it. I was only one C-ranked mission away from getting what I thought it costs. Sukin blinked and shook his head. Honey, you should have brought the sword to me when you saw it. The sword isn't and was never in my inventory. I had no idea I had that sword until the kid that bought it brought it to me. Since I can't sell what I don't really have, I just gave it to him along with the scrolls he had brought up that had dash five dragons. Suken nodded and the girl growled and stomped away. If I ever meet whoever you gave those items to, I'm going to skin them alive. I had my eye on those for 6 years since I started my ninja training. Sukin blinked in confusion as his daughter started for the stairs. I'm going to fight them for the right to have those items. Oh, damn. I better not tell her it was Uzumaki that bought them. She already doesn't like him for the prank he pulled during their year of being in the same class. He I still remember the rant of how unforgivable the prank he pulled on the Huga boy was. The old man shook his head and returned to closing up for the night. Sunlight hitting his face was the only thing Nar needed to wake him from his sleep. The boy groaned as he got to his feet tiredly and looked to the home before him. This is [ __ ] huge. The boy heard a groan in the back of his head. Naruto, why are you yelling so loud? The fox rubbed her eyes as Narut frowned and crossed his arms. You built this thing larger than needed. It must be able to fit an entire three families. Q.B. blinked and looked out of Naruto's eyes at the house. Just as you wanted before all this. Well, you never told me how big you wanted it, so I used as much chakra as you and I could spare in making it. Think of it this way. Only one of full strength chakra punches will be able to even dent the door. Now, I suggest you hurry and head for the Hokag's office. I think it may be around 9 right now. Nar sighed and turned towards the village. Damn. And I didn't even get to put my things away. Oh well. Nar rushed towards the village, heading for the Hokag tower with his giant scroll strapped to his back. I wonder what that U meant when he said to get ready for a C-ranked mission to wave. Q.Bi shrugged and laid back down. I don't know, but I'm going back to bed. After 5 minutes of non-stop jogging, Naruto reached the village and headed straight for the tower. He rushed up the steps to the Hokag's office and walked in. Finding his team and the old man waiting for him, Sakura glared at him while holding her bandaged covered hand. You're late, you idiot. Nar glared at the girl. Want me to break your other hand? Banshee. Sakura flinched back as Kakashi looked at Nar with a bored look. Nar, you really just should have taken your punishment and run the lake like I told you. You didn't have to dash. defend himself from being assaulted by his fellow teammate. Everyone turned to the voice to see Skull coming from the shadows of the darkest corner. Kakashi visibly pald at the U. SS Skull. Long time Hitaki, how's being a wash out going for you? That's enough, the Hokag called out, taking a drag from his pipe. Kakashi, I will explain just what is going on once our fifth member dash. Sorry I'm late. I ran into guy on the way here and had to take the long way around to avoid being challenged again. Everyone looked to the door to the office and in walked a man with long silver gray hair cold black eyes wearing a face mask over the lower half of his face. He wore the standard Jonan attire in all black including the Jonan vest. Tiro Hataki reporting as ordered. Hokag sama. Chapter 2. Good. You've arrived Tiurro. Kakashi frowned under his mask as the silver-haired man walked up to the group. "Now, the reason I have called you all here is because of a few things, really." The Hokag held up a bunch of papers. These are the mission reports for Team 7 since the very beginning of your official creation 2 months ago. Out of the 30D ranked missions that you have done, Naruto has only been getting paid for the missing Torah mission. The rest of the missions have given him reductions of no pay. Yesterday, I had Skull follow you, Kakashi, and your team to see just what exactly is going on. And now, I see that even you cannot see past the death of your sensei. Skull has reported that not only did you not partake in helping your team with the missions, but also that you didn't watch over them to make sure they were doing their jobs. This led to you not challenging the employers about the complaints that Naruto had gotten on each mission outside of Tora the cat. Skull has also informed me of your so-called punishment to Nar for arriving to your team training grounds 5 minutes late along with both Sasuke and Sakura. You only punished him and decided to train Sasuke and Sakura while Narut was to run laps around the lake. Tell me Kakashi, what exactly have you taught Nar outside of teamwork and your belief? Kakashi frowned. Naruto's chakra control is too dash. And yet, when you could have taught me tree climbing, water walking, or even the leaf floating techniques, you pushed me to the side, saying, "Do chakra control, but not telling me what the [ __ ] to do." Narut interrupted the man. "You told us that those who don't follow the rules are trash, and that those who abandon their comrades are worse than trash. I guess that didn't apply to me since I'm just the village demon." Kakashi flinched as Durro frowned and looked to the man with narrowed eyes. Nissan, please tell me you actually taught him something. Narut scoffed. Only that he's a pervert and wants to push the demon aside for the normal shinobi. I see. Then I suppose this is the best course of action. Kakashi Hitaki, you and your team will be given a C-ranked escort mission to wave in order to test how your team will handle the ninja world. Takuro, you will accompany them and assist them in any way you can while evaluating Kakashi's Jonan Sensei capabilities. If by your return you find Kakashi to be unfit for Jonan sensei duties, then Kakashi, you will be removed from the program and be put on probation with nothing but deer ranked missions until the Chunin exams arrive. This is not up for debate and no one, not even the council, will interfere with the aftermath of this mission. Do you all understand? Naruto, Durro, and Kakashi nodded while Sasuke and Sakura just looked on confused. Good skull. Please go retrieve Tzuna from the waiting room. Afterwards, you may return to your Ubu duties. The Ubu nodded and walked over to the side door. Minutes passed and no one said a word before the door opened again. And in walked a man that had a bottle of sake in his hand. You're joking, right? This is the team you're sending to guard me. They're kids and the short one looks like a human. Kill me sign with all that orange. Naruto growled at the man as Kakashi shook his head. No need to worry. Takuro and I are elite Jonan. It<unk>ll take a lot to take us down and all three of them are more than able to protect you. The old man shrugged as Durro nodded in agreement. Well then, let's head out. I don't want to be gone any more than I have already. The two Jonan nodded and turned to the Hokag. You have your mission. You will guard Tzuna here until the bridge he is building is completed and then you are to return. Dismissed. Everyone started to file out of the room as Kakashi called for the team to meet at the village gates in 1 hour before he vanished in a plum of smoke. Nar took off the moment they exited the tower after Kakashi's announcement and headed for the nearest alleyway. He was walking down the alleyway when a hand grabbed his shoulder lightly. Hey. Naruto spun around in a hurry to see Skull emerging from the shadows. I heard Kakashi's 1-hour speech, so I think I have something I can teach you real fast. Do you have any clones training yet? Narut shook his head and the man nodded. Create 20 with as much chakra as you can give them and send them to a lake. Have them try to walk on water by using the same method as the tree climbing technique, but sending their chakra out in waves and mess around with it. Narut nodded and summoned up the clones, panting a bit after the clones were created and sent off. Good job, Uzumaki. I see your control has improved. Now come with me. I'm going to introduce you to the ninja world's underground world, the criminal world. The hand on his shoulder tightened and everything blurred before Nar for only a few seconds before he found himself standing in the middle of the street. Nar looked around and growled at the district he was in. The red light district of Konoha. Are you [ __ ] kidding me? Skull shook his head and started to walk towards one of the bars. No, now come on. Narut shook his head and walked after the man. The bouncer at the bar door nodded to the umbu and let the two in. Welcome Uzumaki to the diamond leaf. The man led him to the bar counter and took a seat. Nar watched the man reach up and remove his mask and the black cover that kept his entire head covered. Nar noticed that the man had long pale silver hair, pasty white skin, long pointed ears, and cold red eyes with slit black pupils. Before you ask, I am Galen. Do not allow anyone to know I am the Ukull, as they all saw me under a gen z jutzu of my real face before we even arrived here. I allowed you to know only because of the way your life has panned out thus far. Also, the ears are from my family bloodline. Narudo frowned and looked around the bar, seeing a lot of people gambling, drinking, and hitting on the pole dancers. So, what are we doing here then? Galen smirked as a drink was placed in front of him. Well, if you want to learn to be a true ninja, then you need to learn about the underground world of criminals. If you want information that you can't get in one place, look to the underground. Naruto nodded as Galen looked over his right shoulder with a smirk showing longer than normal canines and part of the left side of his face was a strange stone gray with cracks. Tell me, do you know how to play poker? Narut shook his head and the man held out a large wad of cash. Here's 1,000 Rio. I want you to go over to the poker table and play until either I call you back or you run out of money. Tell them that you are new to the game and the dealer will teach you real fast on how to play. Naruto took the money and walked over to the table as the bartender walked up to the umbu with a raised brow. Ain't he a bit young to be here, Galian sama? The man shook his head. He's a ninja, so he's an adult. Anyway, listen. I need you to get her for me. Tell her that I'm calling in that favor she owes me. The barkeep nodded and walked off to the back. A few seconds later, a woman walked out and glared at the man. What? We need to talk. Narudo didn't know how long had passed since he started playing, but he was enjoying the game. The others at the table were glaring at him, however, since he'd won the last six hands in a row. The blonde was a newbie and kicking their asses at the game. A hand on Naruto's shoulder paused the game, and the boy looked over his shoulder to see Galen behind him. K, wait. After this hand, the man nodded as Narut turned back to the table and made the call. Everyone showed their hands and the man to the left of the dealer smirked. Ah, beat that newbie. I knew your luck would run out sooner or later. Nar blinked in confusion before showing his hand. But I thought a royal straight flush beats everything. The entire table gaped at the boy's hand and the dealer smirked. Winner of the pot, Narut Uzumaki. Nar took the money and added it to his stash before turning and offering it to Galen, who just shook his head. No, you want it all fair and square. I will, however, take back my original 1,000. Nar nodded and handed him a bundle of cash held by a rubber band. Now come. Nar jumped off the stool and followed the umbu to the back of the bar towards the bathrooms and then to a lone door. The person you are about to meet is the best when it comes to knowledge for what you are about to learn. I want you to promise me on your ninja honor that you will learn everything she has to teach you. Nar looked to the man with a raised brow. What exactly is she going to teach me? Galen shook his head. Vow first. Nar rolled his eyes. Fine. I promise on my honor as a ninja that I will learn everything this person you are making me meet has to teach me. Galen smirked and opened the door. "Then get to learning Uzuakisan." Naruto growled and walked through the door only to hear it close after he cleared the threshold. He looked around the dark room to see nothing until a voice cut through the darkness. "So, you're the gaki that Galen wants me to teach?" Nar turned and found a pair of green orbs looking at him with a bored look. Blonde hair, blue eyes, whiskers, orange jumpsuit. You're Naruto Uzumaki, aren't you? Narut nodded and shifted his stance a bit. Don't bother. I'm beyond your level of power, kid. I also know everything about you, and I do mean everything. Now, Galen wanted me to teach you. So, the click of a switch was heard, and the room came into light, revealing a woman Narudo found beautiful in his eyes. The woman stood at the height of 6'7 in with long flowing brown hair. Her eyes were a bright green and she wore a simple black kimono and sandals. I guess you better know exactly what I'm going to teach you. Naruto rose a brow and looked around the room. The only things in the room were a bed and another door into an attached bathroom. So, let's get started. Where the hell is he? Sakura yelled as she and the rest of the team waited at the front gate with Tzuna and Durro for Narut to show up. It's been over an hour since Kakashi sensei told us to show up. So, what the hell could he be doing? Kakashi frowned while looking back into the village while Sasuke just shrugged. He must have thought that since Kakashi sensei is always 2 hours late to everything we've done that he would show up to a mission just as late. He's just taking his time in getting ready most likely. Takuro frowned and turned to Kakashi. I thought you broke that habit of being late, Nissan. Kakashi chuckled nervously and scratched the back of his head. Well, mostly. Duro shook his head and turned to the gate. Who's that? Kakashi looked back to the village to see someone walking up to them in all red and black. Noa. So Kakashi's actually only an hour late instead of two. Eh, the person called as he walked up and stopped before them. He reached for his hood and lowered it to show Nar under the hood. "You baka!" Nar sidestepped a punch from Sakura and grabbed the girl's arm. "Unless you want me to break this one, you better control yourself, Haruno." Naruto released the girl's arm and turned back to Kakashi. "So, are we all set to go?" The two Jonah nodded while Tzuna shrugged while drinking his sake. "Well, team, let's get going." I can't believe that idiot did that. Q.B. yelled as she walked through Naruto's mind. And where the hell do I know that name from? She growled as she started to walk down a hall with many doors. I mean, it's only been about 2 million years since I became a demon fox. So, where the hell did the name Galen ring a bell at? She looked at each door as she walked, careful not to miss a single door. Uggh. This isn't making things better. She rubbed her forehead, stopping before the last door. She looked at the door and smirked. Jackpot! Now to unlock his memories. She frowned at closer inspection of the door. The door looked to be chained up with a large padlock that had no keyhole, and the door itself was littered with seals and runes. "Oh, damn it. I wish Lucia was still alive. At least she might have been able to give me some type of help on these things." The Vixs inside and moved closer to the locked door. Well, better get to work. His memories aren't going to unlock themselves. The group had been walking for a while with Nar taking point. Sasuke and Sakura on either side of Tzuna and Duro and Kakashi in the back with Kakashi reading his book once again. Looking ahead, Nar spotted two puddles of water on the road. He looked over his shoulder to see Kakashi glancing over his book and then to Nar. He nodded and Narut turned back to the front and kept walking. As they walked by them, the redc cloak teen dropped a slip of paper to the ground unnoticed to everyone but the two Jonan. Just as Kakashi passed the two puddles, a pair of ninja started to rise out of them. The first one grabbed his friend and launched him at Kakashi. "Boom!" Nar muttered as he turned back to the two ninja just as the second one was launched into the air. The explosion from the tag caught the first one and the chain connecting the two, shattering it. Kakashi blocked the strike from the mist ninja and delivered a punch to the man's gut, knocking the wind out of him and then striking him in the neck to knock him out. Good job, Naruto. Now, where is number two? Kakashi wondered as he looked around the path they were taking. Naruto growled and rushed to Tzuna's side while he drew his sword from his waist just as the first mist ninja exploded out of the ground with burns in several places. Die, old man. The tunin ninja stabbed his claw forward only to meet metal. What? You failed to mention you had gatu after you, Tzuna. Nar stated as he held the tunin back with his sword. Kakashi appeared behind the tunin and chopped him on the neck. Good work, Nar. Tzuna, you have some explaining to do. The old man gulped as the two Jennine blinked in confusion of what just happened and Duro rose a brow. These two are known as the demon brothers. They're a pair of nuke ninja from Kirigakure. They're also known to be thugs of Zabuza Mimochi, a ranked nuke ninja of mist and one of the former seven swordsmen. Takuro and Kakashi turned to Narut with raised brows. And you would know this how Uzu Makian Naruto's cheeks gained a slight red color as he pulled out a book. Ah, the bingo book. Last I checked, that was only issued to Chunin and above. Nar shrugged. I just found it lying around. Technically, I was the one lying down. It was in a trash can in an alley. I just lost myself reading through the book. Right. Anyway, Tuna, mind explaining why you lied about who might be after you? The old man sideighed. All right, I confess I lied to you. But you have to understand Wave is a very poor country. Even our lords don't have the funds for a simple C-ranked mission. I gathered what I could from the villages and lords to come up with just that. The bridge that I'm building is our only hope to free ourselves from Gatu. Gatu as in the business tycoon Gatu? Kakashi asked and Tzuna nodded. The very same. Please, you have to help us. That man is killing our country. He's kidnapping and killing whoever he wants. Kakashi hummed and turned to the team. It's up to the three of you. If you want to turn back, we'll return. Narut nodded. I vote continue. Takuro frowned and looked to the other two. Sasuke smirked and nodded. If the do is going, I'm going too. Can't<unk>t let him get into trouble. Sakura got stareyed and turned to Kakashi. I'm with Sasuke Kuan. Kakashi nodded and looked to his brother. I know the hokag dash. Save it. Nissan, I'll help. Kakashi smiled and turned to Tzuna. All right, Tzuna. You have our help. However, we need all the information on Gatu that you can spare. Tuna nodded. Thank you all of you. Your little crew failed. Zabuza. A small businessman growled at the man before him on the couch. Zabuza scoffed and brought his sword down before the small man's face. Shut your trap, Gatu. This time I'll be going and I'll get it done. Save your breath and have our money ready. The small man snarled and walked away as two other people came out from the shadows. You two ready? I heard the Hitaki brothers were part of the group. A chuckle came from the man on Zabuz's right. Good. I have a score to settle with Duro. The other person merely nodded. Keep in mind, Remis, that we only need to kill the old man. Don't go off halfcocked because of a past defeat. Haku, you'll be our support. We<unk>ll hit them as soon as they land in wave." The two nodded, Remis, with a frown. "Fine, but I will kill that damned Hitaki." Zabuza heard the sound of footsteps and the slamming of a door before he sighed. He looked over his shoulder at Haku with a pointed look and nodded. Hama. So that's the bridge you're building. Pretty huge. Naruto muttered as they sat in a small boat crossing the water into wave country. Tuna smirked and nodded. Yep. That there is waves one and only hope to freeing us from Gatu. Once it's finished, we<unk>ll be able to do other types of trade aside from our primary. The group nodded as they reached the shore and got off the boat. They walked down the path leading to the village when Narut heard something in the bushes and threw a canai into them. The entire team stopped as Nar walked over and pushed the bushes aside and found a snow white rabbit with a canai just above its head. "Nar, you dash, get down!" Kakashi suddenly yelled and brought Tzuna down to the ground with him. The entire team followed suit as a giant sword and a large axe flew right through the air where their heads were. Kakashi looked up to where the sword lodged itself in the tree and growled as two figures appeared in the tree. One on the sword handle. Kakashi copy ninja Haki and Durro white skull. Hataki, what an honor. Zabuza Mammochi, demon of the hidden mist. Kakashi growled out as Durro looked at the second figure with an annoyed look. Remis Kukara, the black hand of grass. Not you again. The second man growled and jumped to the ground. It's been 12 years since you killed my team in those exams, Hitaki. Kakashi reached for his headband as Zabuza took hold of his sword and jumped to the lake. Guard Tuna, we<unk>ll take care of these two. Takuro reached behind him and pulled out his ninja, too. Looks like you get your rematch after all, Remis. Turo spoke in a bored tone, and the grass ninja growled. Now then, shall we? Duro and Remis vanished from sight as Zabuza chuckled. My my seems I get to face the famous sharing. Kakashi ninja art hidden mist jutsu. Mist started to roll onto the field as Kakashi pulled his headband up to show his sharing. Everyone protect Narut, Sasuke, and Sakura formed up around the man and Zabuza chuckled. There are eight vital points on the human body. The mist ninja's voice filled the air. heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, jugular vein, spine, larynx, and collarbone. Now, where should I strike? The three genine shivered from the killing intent coming from all directions. This intent, it's just like his. Sasuke thought to himself as his hand inched towards his kunai pouch. Is this the power of two Jonan? This is unreal. I'd rather dash. Sasuke, get a hold of yourself. Kakashi yelled out as a burst of chakra from him cleared the mist away. He looked over his shoulder with an eye smile from both eyes. I won't let my comrades die. He he a little too late for that Kakashi. The three jennon widened their eyes in shock as Zabuza spoke from the center of their formation. Now you die. Kakashi's sharing eye widened as Zabuza stood and started to swing his massive blade. The silver-haired Jonan vanished in a burst of speed, and the mist ninja went wideeyed from the sudden pain in his stomach. "Sorry, Zabuza, but looks like I win." Zabuza's surprise turned to an evil glare. "Guess again." The man before Kakashi exploded into water. "Now die, water clone." [ __ ] Kakashi felt the massive sword tear through him just as the team pulled Tuna away from the area. Kakashi sensei Sakura called out as Narut narrowed his eyes at Zabuza. Zabuza chuckled but ceased when cold steel was pressed against his neck. You lose. Kakashi glared down at the man with both eyes when a smirk broke Zabuza's bandaged face. Not likely. The man became water once again and Kakashi was sent towards the lake with a single kick from behind. Zabuza made to take a step forward when he noticed spikes on the ground. Makubishia not going to work. Zabuza jumped over the weapons just as Kakashi rolled to his knees on the surface of the lake. Wait a second. This water feels [ __ ] Water style water prison jutzu. Zabuza smirked at the downed Kakashi as water formed a large sphere around the Jonan. Zabuza looked to the three jennine and smirked. Your turn, water clone jutzu. A single clone of the swordsman formed out of the water and started to stalk towards the group. Run, takea and get out of here. His clone won't be able to go very far without the original nearby. Kakashi yelled to the group of kids only for Nar to shake his head. No. Nar formed a single seal and hundreds of clones appeared. Sasuke Sakura, you guys stay with Tzuna. I'm going to try and save Kakashi. Take Tuna as far as you can. We'll meet up with you shortly. Sasuke looked to the teen for a few seconds and nodded. You got it. Sasuke grabbed Tzuna's arm and started to drag the man away with Sakura behind them. You think you have what it takes to stop me? Zabuza growled and the clone rushed at the army of Naruto's. The blonde clones rushed at the water clone and were beginning to dispel from quick and easy attacks from the clone. From the back, Narut threw two canai at the real Zabuza when the water clone appeared and grabbed the boy by the neck and hoisted them up. "It seems the jokes are right. Blondes are morons," the clone muttered as Zabuza blocked the two cany, sending them into the water. The clone began to squeeze on Naruto's throat, and the teen inwardly smirked when he clasped onto the man's arm. "Eat this." The retracting blades in Naruto's gloves shot out and impaled the man's arm, causing the clone to not only let go of him, but to dispel as well. Nar looked up at Zabuza and pulled out four shuriken in each hand and threw them. "You think you can stop me?" Zabuza shouted as he reached for his sword and brought it to protect his front. Nar smirked as hands sprang out from the water and grabbed his legs. "What? Behind you, asshole!" A shout from behind him made him look and found another clone tossing three canai, each armed with tags. [ __ ] Zabuza pulled his arm back from the prison and Kakashi fell into the water just as an explosion sent Zabuza flying and the two clones dispelling. Kakashi emerged from the water and glared at where Zabuza was getting up with a few minor burns. Good job, Naruto. Now send for the others. I'll deal with Zabuza now. Naruto nodded and rushed off towards the way that Sasuke had taken to Zuna and Sakura while Kakashi pulled out a kana and rushed Zabuza just as the man rushed him with his sword. Pretty smart brat you have there Kakashi. Zabuza growled as he brought his sword down on the man only for the knife to hold it at bay. You teach him those tactics all by yourself? Kakashi didn't answer as the two jumped apart and started to circle each other. Nope, he's self-taught. The man answered as they stopped for the fifth time. Zabuza started to run through seals and Kakashi started copying them. Water style water dragon projectile jutzu. The two shouted and two dragons rose out of the water and attacked, canceling each other out. Zabuza growled and the two circled again. Kakashi stopped moving when Zabuza stopped and made the same movements he made. What is he doing? It's like Dash. He's reading my mind. Kakashi spoke out and the man growled as he made another movement. He's making the same movements at the exact dash. Same time, right? Zabuza started another line of seals and Kakashi copied. You won't beat me dash. You monkey. The two shouted together as they each made the final seal to a jutzu. Zabuza was just about to activated the jutzu when he saw something standing behind Kakashi. What in the hell is that? me water style giant vortex jutzu. Kakashi called out and Zabuza cursed as the water rose and smashed into him with such force that it knocked him off his feet and started to bang him into trees as it flowed, finally slamming him into one final tree as it died. Two kana lodged themselves deep into each arm when Kakashi appeared in the same tree above him. Give up, Zabuza. Your future is death. Zabuza looked up to the man and glared. That was all that the man did before two Sunbon buried themselves into his neck. Thank you for your assistance. It would have been more of a pain had I taken him on my own. A voice from above Kakashi called to him and he looked up. He saw the voice was from a mist hunter ninja. No problem, Hunteran. Kakashi jumped down from the tree and felt for Zabuz's pulse. Yep, he's dead. Stole my kill the [ __ ] I must take care of the body. the hunter announced as he appeared next to the man's body and lifted it up. Farewell, Hatakisan. The hunter vanished as Kakashi pulled his headband down and sighed before he collapsed onto his back. Damn chakra exhaustion. Kakashi sighed and closed his one eye as footsteps neared him. Overused your eye again, brother. Takuro kneelled down to the man with eye smiles. Kakashi nodded. that and using two opposing elemental jutzu, Turo sighed and shook his head, a scroll in his hands. So you kill him? Tiurro nodded. Yep. He wanted to fight me all out just like any other, so I didn't take it easy on him. He knows why I'm called the White Skull now that he's dead. Kakashi nodded. Well, Naruto should be back with the others anytime soon. Takuro nodded and lifted the man up with an arm over his shoulder. Minutes passed and Kakashi sighed deeply as Narut and the team came into sight. What is it? Kakashi looked up to the redclod blonde and sighed. I screwed up big time. Takuro nodded. Takuro. When we reach Kohaa after this mission is over. I have a favor to ask of you. Takuro nodded as the team ran up to them. Kakashi sensei. Are you all right? Sakura shouted as Kakashi I smiled at them. Yes, I'm fine. All thanks to Narut. Now, Tzuna, how far is your village from here? Tzuna smiled and started walking. Not very far, Kakashi. Just about a half hour's walk and we'll be there. Kakashi nodded and closed his eye as Duro and the Jennon started walking after the man. Who the hell made these seals? They're too [ __ ] old to be from this time. Q.Bi growled as she sat before the door trying to work out the runes and seals. Uggh. Where the [ __ ] did they learn runes anyway? I was around when they died out, so what the [ __ ] Seems you have developed quite the mouth there, Q. The woman froze at the sudden chill that ran through her spine. Or would you rather you be called by your real name, Lamina Ulsa? The demon fox jumped to her feet and turned around looking for the voice. Come out, coward. A dark chuckle echoed off the walls as darkness started to consume her sight. "Ah, but that would ruin the fun, my old friend. It does spike my interest, however, that you are the nine-tailed fox." The woman growled, bearing her fangs. "Who are you, anyway? How do you know my old name?" The chuckle returned. "Answer me, damn you, Nitro Dagger." Mega Seal, the girl cried out in pain as she felt her energy for her attack leave her painfully. My my my, how weak you've become being sealed inside a boy. Hero and the others would be very disappointed in the black witch of Althena. The demon growled out as footsteps approached her and stealing one of my spells. Too bad you seem a bit rusty on casting magic in your old age. Damn you, poor Lamina Elsa, premiere of the magic guild of vain and black witch, but also the harbinger of Lunar's destruction. The girl froze in fear. How How do you know that? He He enjoy your punishment for releasing Zofhur. Lamina, it wasn't my fault. He tricked me. I didn't know it was him. That, my dear Lamina, is for you to prove and for me to see. Now, before I leave, do your old friend one last favor and make sure Naruto survives the coming trials. I would hate to see the next Dragon Master die, just like all the people you killed from taking that bastard's power as a gift. Also, your features are wrong, my dear. It seems all that blood you shed has become your natural color. Ah! The loud crack of thunder echoed the halls, making Lamina clasp her hands over her ears in pain. The red-headed woman opened her eyes and gasped at the mirror that had suddenly appeared before her. "What? What is this?" She ran a hand through her red hair with a terrified look on her face. "No, this isn't right. This is all wrong." She smashed a fist into the mirror in anger, breaking it to pieces. It had to be a trick. She grabbed a few locks of her hair and pulled them to her front to see what color they are. They were blood red. No. Lamina fell to her knees, grasping her head and screamed, "Damn you, Zofhur." Narut shot up from his dream, and looked around the room rapidly. When he noticed that everyone was up, he frowned. "Was that you yelling, "Qu." He heard sobs coming from the back of his mind and got no answer. He growled, "Answer me. Just leave me alone, Nar. Go learn from your scrolls or something. I need time to think." The boy rolled his eyes and got up. Whatever. The boy got dressed and after checking that everything was in place, headed out of the room only to bump into someone that someone just happened to be Sasuke. Good. You're up. Kakashi called a team meeting. He just woke up half an hour ago. Narut nodded and started to follow the boy to Kakashi's room. Nar, do you normally talk in your sleep? Nar looked to the back of the boy's head with a confused look. No. Why? Because you were last night and you were crying. Narut narrowed his eyes at the back of the boy's head. You trying to make fun of me, team? Sasuke looked over his shoulder with a cold glare that stopped Nar in his tracks. No, I'm not. To tell the truth, do I didn't peg you for the type to get painful nightmares like I do. Bad memories? Nar looked to the teen, surprised. I I don't know. I only hear voices. Sometimes they try to say a name and I can't hear them either. Sasuke frowned and nodded. Don't worry, I'm not like that Inuzuka [ __ ] Sakura or Eno. I won't tell anyone, nor will I look down on you for it. Narut nodded as they continued on the path to Kakashi's room. They stopped outside a bedroom door and Sasuke opened it. After you, do Nar smirked and nodded. Thanks team. Sasuke nodded and the blonde walked into the room to see Diurro leaning against the wall next to Kakashi who was laying down on the bedmat and Sakura sitting on the floor next to him. "Oh good, you came. Now I have an important announcement to make." Zabuza is still alive. Nar spoke up and Kakashi sighed. "How did you guess?" Takuro asked and Narut rolled his eyes. "That would be the only thing to make him call a team meeting first thing in the morning." Kakashi nodded. Yes, you are correct, Naruto. Zabuza is still alive. However, since the hunter who saved him nailed him in the neck with Senbon, he's going to take at least a week to recover. And the same can be said with me because of my chakra exhaustion. If we're going to defeat Zabuza, you three need to be trained, and I know just the things to teach you. Kakashi gave everyone an eye smile, and Narut looked to him with a glare. Oh, you mean you're actually going to teach me something? Kakashi's smile faltered and he nodded. Yes, Narut, but I also need to know what you have taught yourself. Water walking, tree walking, the leaf floating technique, and shadow clone jutzu. Kakashi nodded and looked to Sasuke. Leaf floating. Same here, Sensei. Kakashi nodded and looked to Durro. I need you to help me out with this. I have a few ideas, but I need to get them up to water walking. Duro nodded and looked to the three. All right, it seems I'm going to teaching the two of you tree walking and then water walking. Nar, I'm not sure what to dash. If you have another exercise, I can work on that. Nar interrupted the man and he nodded. All right, then. Point balancing it is. Kakashi nodded and sat up, wincing in pain. All right, get me some crutches and we'll get started. Diurro nodded and helped the man to his feet as Sakura got the crutches from the corner of the room. Kakashi took the crutches and I smiled to everyone. Turro, get them started on tree climbing and I'll help Nar with point balancing. Turro nodded and led the two jennon out of the room. Kakashi looked to Nar and nodded. Let's get going. You failed. Gatu burst into the room where Zabuza laid in bed with Haku sitting next to him. Zabuza narrowed his eyes and glared at the short man as he walked up to the side of the bed. "Well, say something." Gatu started to reach for the man's neck when a hand grabbed and applied pressure to his own arm, breaking it. "Do not touch Zabuza sama with your filthy hands." Haku growled at the man and pushed him back. The hunter looked to Gatu<unk>s men and vanished from sight the moment Haku saw them reaching for their swords. The two thugs found their own swords against their necks, and Zabuza chuckled. "Don't worry, Gatu. I know how to stop Kakashi next time. Now, I suggest you leave before you make Haku even angrier." Gatu growled and started to walk out of the room. "One week, that's all you're getting for this, Zabuza!" Gatu and his guards walked out of the room and slammed the door. Zabuza sighed and looked to Haku as he lifted the sheets. "You didn't need to do that." Haku nodded as the hunter spotted the kunai. Haku, we need to be careful. I'm getting a bad feeling about this job. Haku nodded. Yes, Zabuza sama. The hunter stood and started for the door. I'll go out to look for some more herbs to help your recovery. All right, just be careful out there. Haku nodded and walked out the room. Zabuza sighed and shook his head. All right, Nar, this should be a good spot. Kakashi told the boy as they came to a stop in a large clearing near the lake. Now for point balancing, you'll need this. Kakashi pulled out a single scroll and unsealed a silver pyramid. This is what I used to learn this exercise. What you need to do is using your palm, balance yourself on the point of the block while keeping your body perpendicular with the ground. The point cannot touch your skin or trust me, you will fall. Also, once you're able to hold yourself up for a full hour without wavering, try using only one finger at a time and be sure to use both hands. Kakashi placed the block on the ground and looked up at Nar. Any questions? Nar nodded. How many of those do you have with you? Kakashi smiled. Ah, so you figured out the training secret already. Very good, Nar. Now I have about nine more of these. Would that suit you? Naruto nodded and Kakashi threw the boy the scroll he pulled the first from. There you go. Also, I should let you know that while you can learn more and more exercises than you have now, don't neglect the ones that you do have mastered. I suggest training with them every time you train. Your clones would be enough for that. Now, I guess I'll have to think of a jutzu or something to teach you. Let's see. Dash. I actually have a scroll full of jutzu that I can learn from. A few tai jutzu and nin jutsu to start with. Kakashi nodded. That could work. After all, the only jutzu you have besides the shadow clone are substitution and hinge. You'll need to work more in your Thai jutzu since you're mostly a brawler. What's the name of the Thai jutzu style? Naruto pulled out a small scroll that turned into a bigger scroll when he added chakra to it. He unsealed a single scroll and looked at it. The blue dragon fist. Kakashi looked at the scroll with a raised brow. I've never heard of it. Naruto nodded. Neither have I, but that just gives me an advantage. Kakashi nodded. Very well. I'll leave you to your training then. If you need anything, come find me. I'll be sure to help you out. Naruto nodded and Kakashi started to take his leave when he stopped and took out another scroll. You know, maybe you can put this to use as well. I found it lying around in a trash can one day. And well, dragons aren't really my type, though. I don't know what exactly it is. I decided to keep it in case I found someone who could use it. Kakashi tossed it over his shoulder and continued on. Naruto caught the scroll and saw the scroll only had the words five dragons on it. Thank you, Kakashi sensei. The man nodded and started his way again. I still don't trust you. I know you're only trying to cover your own ass. Naruto muttered and made the seals for shadow clones. Once the boy's desired amount had been reached, he started to assign tasks to each of them. A couple went to study the medical books. Another group went to study ceiling and a third to study hunting and skinning. A large group of Naruto's clones went to work on water walking while two others went to work on tree walking and the leaf floating. Being ordered to mix the two up, a group of 10 were made to perform the exercise Kakashi had given him. Nar turned to another group and handed them a single jutzu scroll that wasn't part of the dragon set. He then gave two other groups a scroll and sent them on their way. All right, time to see just what these dragon jutzu are, Narut muttered and started to leave the clearing with his large scroll. He walked further from the training ground Kakashi left him at until he reached a peaceful clearing with many trees and flowers. He looked to the scroll that he had gotten just moments ago from Kakashi and nodded. You're first. Narudo opened the scroll and suddenly everything went dark. So this is the chosen child, the one you have spoke of, null. A rumbling growl echoed the darkness as Naruto's blue eyes slowly opened to see himself standing on a large ship that was surrounded in darkness. Yes, although something seems wrong, a kind voice called out through the darkness. Nar stood up and started to look around. I agree, husband. I sense a familiar presence in his aura. Naruto turned towards the lovely feminine voice but could only see the massive ship he was on. Yes, my friends, I sense it too. That presence is irritating me. Like a thorn in my side. A deep voice echoed and Narut growled. What is going on here? Who are you? Where am I? That hair and those whiskers reminds me of her. How would he be dash? A second female voice was cut off. Remember Reiko? She was tricked. The first female voice responded. Remember what Lucia told us. His release was not her fault, but of his own tricks. Enough. The very first voice called out and the others silenced. It is clear that the child somehow houses Dash. After all, with Zofur's curse laid upon her, I'm not surprised that she has lived this long after the destruction of Lunar. However, there is something clearly blocking the boy's mind. Something that should not be there with that Vixen. The stomping of something big coming towards him made Nar turn to the first voice only to freeze in sheer awe and fear. For before Naruto Uzumaki was a very large green dragon. Boy, tell me, where did you get the sword of Athena? Nar blinked and held up the sword and sheath. Yes, boy. Where did you get that? Nar looked from the dragon to the sheath and noticed that both the green dragon head and the dragon before him looked exactly alike. I I found it in a shop. The front left paw of the dragon slammed against the wooden floor that Narut awoke to. Do not lie to me, boy. I can smell the lie coming from you. We all can. Now, where did you get that sword? Nar narrowed his eyes at the great beast. I told you I found it in a shop. I've never seen the sword before. Then the boy is lying to us. Star, the second female voice. Rauku, if Narudo remembered correctly, roared as a black dragon stomped into the light, its yellow eyes glaring down at Nar. "Calm yourselves, dragons!" a muffled human voice called out through the darkness. Heavy footsteps could be heard as Narut turned to them to watch as a person came out dressed in strange black armor with a long black cape. The person's head was covered with a strange black helm. Several growls echoed the throats of the dragons as the person came to a stop next to Nar. I am the one who presented not only the sword but the scrolls of the four heroes to him. However, it seems that someone has tampered with his memories. Who the hell are you? The man gave a cold chuckle and turned his head down to him. I am only known as the magic emperor, the man told him and turned back to the dragons. You have a lot of guts to bring yourself before us, emperor. Especially after what you have done to my kin long ago. Star growled to the man and he nodded. Yes, I know Star, but the matter of interest at the moment is young Uzumaki here. The man waved a gauntlet covered hand to the boy. You all know that I was revived to help the chosen boy who will rise as the new dragon master. It has been a long, long wait for us all, and he now stands before you. The dragons had all come into view now and the man continues. However, with the world changing over the millions of years we waited. I have had to make some changes to the scrolls, making them into what they call jutzu instead of magic. I Yes, I have knowledge of all this. However, why do you show yourself to us now, emperor? Your duty is to train the next dragon master. I cannot train him. I can only guide him and offer my help when in need of it. However, I have given Dash, or rather the Q.B. as she is now known, a message that she will help him, or she will not be forgiven as she seeks to be. Star nodded and looked to the boy. Very well, Narut Uzumaki. From this day forth, you shall begin the journey to become the dragon master, the most powerful warrior to ever walk the blue and silver stars. Should you need to speak with us, open the scroll and you will be brought here. The same could be said if we need to speak to you and trust me, you will know when you are needed by us. May Althena guide you in your quest, child. Nar was about to yell at the dragon, only for everything to go black once again. Hey, are you okay? A kind womanly voice echoed in his ears as Nar felt someone shaking him awake. Hey, wake up. You'll catch a cold if you sleep out here. Nar opened his eyes and met the chocolate brown orbs of the teenage girl before him. She had long brown hair and wore a beautiful pink kimono and a pair of sandals. You okay? Nar blushed at the closeness of the girl as she smiled to him. That's good. You know, you shouldn't be sleeping outside like this at this time of day. You could get sick. Nar shrugged as the teen leaned away from him. I've never nor will I ever get sick. It's part of my curse. Nar muttered at the end, but the girl frowned as she had heard it. curse. Nar nodded. Yeah, let's just say I'm hated throughout my village for something outside my control. The girl's eyes softened and Nar saw the same thing he saw every time he looked into a mirror. Pain, sorrow, longing. Everything he felt he saw reflected in her eyes. You're hated too, aren't you? The girl flinched back in surprise, but nodded with a sad look on her face. Yes, I was. But that was before I left my home village. Nar nodded. My name's Haku. Nar smiled kindly to the girl. I'm Naruto. The girl smiled and stood up, offering a hand to the boy. He took the hand and was lifted up to his feet. Narut san would dash. Don't call me san. I'm not very big on honorifics. Haku nodded. Okaren. Would you like to give me a hand? I'm looking for some herbs that can be used in medicines. Narut nodded to her as he rolled his blank scroll up and placed it in his cloak pocket. Sure, lead the way. Haku nodded and the two proceeded to look around the area. Haku pointing out what herbs she needed. Naruto Kuan, if you don't mind my asking, what exactly is your curse? Nar looked over his shoulder for a second before turning back. I've been blamed since birth for something outside my control. Haku frowned as he had told her that already. They see me as a reminder of the Q.Bi attack since I was born on that very day. Haku noted. I was raised in a village not far from Kirigakure. Narut rose a brow and looked over his shoulder at her. During the time, the Mizukage had started a bloodline civil war. He hated all bloodline users and wanted them purged from his country. You were one of them? Haku nodded. Yes, I have a Kekkai Jeng Kai. Haku stood and turned to Nar. I am able to manipulate water into ice and use it. I found my ability out when I was four. Haku moved over to another spot and started to look for the herbs she needed. When I showed my mother, she slapped me and told me to never do it again. But someone else saw, didn't they? Nar asked as he walked over to her and knelt down. Haku nodded. My father. That night, he gathered a mob of villagers and stormed our home. Naruto saw tears starting to leak from the girl's eyes. He killed my mother first and then they all came after me. Before they could kill me, my bloodline activated and I killed them all. Nar sighed and shook his head. Your bloodline isn't a curse in Kohaa. If you were to go live there, then trust me when I say that you would be seen as royalty. Naruto shook his head as he stood to his feet and looked to the sky. "I, on the other hand, will always be seen as the demon that killed the yandame hokag." Nar held out a hand and helped the girl up. "Do you have everything?" Haku nodded. "Yes, thank you, Narutuin." Nar nodded and started to walk away. "Om?" Narun. Nar looked over his shoulder at the girl. "Can can I see you again?" Nar sighed. I would get in trouble for meeting with the enemy, Hunteran. Haku<unk>s eyes widened as Narut smirked. But I sure won't care. Tomorrow then, right here. Haku smiled kindly and nodded. How? You gave me enough information to piece it together. The herbs and your story. Haku looked to the ground. Don't worry, I won't tell anyone about you. Besides, Naruto started walking away. Those that are cursed should stick together to fight against those same curses. Nar exited the clearing as Haku watched after him. Both unaware of the pair of eyes watching the two. Seems the boy is taking control of his own life. The person looked to the girl still in the clearing. She might be one of the five from the vision she had. Then I need to make sure she doesn't die. The spy gave a hearty chuckle and vanished in a flash of purple light. Naruto walked out of the forest to his little training area to find that all his clones had dispelled during the time he was unconscious. He looked to the sky as he tried to recall everything and smiled slightly when he remembered everything the clones had done. Hey do Nar looked to the voice to see Sasuke standing and waiting for him. Finally found you. You've been gone all day. Nar nodded. I lost track of time with training. Sasuke nodded and turned towards the direction of Tzuna's house. Come on, dinner's waiting. Naruto nodded and followed Sasuke back to the house. That night, when Naruto went to bed, he would never notice the appearance of a white dragon head on one of his five dragon scrolls. The next morning, found Nar back in his training ground while Kakashi helped Sasuke and Sakura and Durro protected Tzuna while he was working at the bridge. Nar created the same amount of clones he had yesterday and let them get to work. He then created 10 more and handed them the ken jutsu scrolls, learned the basics and practiced them. The four nodded and went to study. Naruto turned towards the forest and started heading in. He arrived in the clearing where he met Haku and took out the tai jutsu scroll from his vest pocket. Might as well do something while I wait for her to show if she decides to show up. Nar opened the scroll and sat down against the nearest tree and started to read. Half an hour into reading, Nar heard a rustling in the bushes. He looked up to see Haku walking into the clearing with a smile. Hai Narutun. Nar smiled back and rolled the scroll up before standing. He made 10 shadow clones and handed them the scroll. Get to work. The 10 nodded and left the clearing. Naruto turned to Haku to see her confused look. Shadow clones. They're solid clones and they cost a lot of chakra to make. I'm the only Jenine in Kohaa that can do it. Most Jonan have trouble with it because of the chakra usage. I learn whatever they learn, which is very useful in learning new jutzu and such. Haku nodded, storing the information in the back of her head. So, what did you want to meet me again for? Haku's cheeks gained a faint pink color. E guess haven't really thought of it myself? Nar chuckled and nodded. Well, how about teaching me a bit about medicine? I don't really have anything to offer in exchange. Haku thought about it for a moment before nodding. All right, Narutun. You'll just have to find a way to pay me back, however. If we survive at the end of this ordeal, Narut nodded. Deal. Chapter 3. The first of the five. Leaving again. Haku. The voice from behind her made the girl stop in her tracks. She turned with guilty eyes to face the voice to find Zabuza out of bed. Leaning against the wall with his arms crossed and a pointed look. Yes, Zabuza sama. Where have you been going this past week? Haku. Haku hung her head. To the forest. Zabuza sama. For what? to meet with someone. Zabuza rose a brow. Who is it? The girl stayed silent. Haku Narut Uzumaki. Zabuza narrowed his eyes. The blonde brat. Haku nodded and the man glared at her for a few seconds. Does he know about you? Yes. Zabuza sighed and shook his head. What have the two of you been doing? Haku. I've been teaching him medicine. and Zabuza sama. He hasn't questioned me at all about our plans. The swordsman rubbed his forehead. I'm going to regret this in the morning. Go. Haku looked to him surprised. W what? Go meet with him. We're attacking the day after tomorrow since I'm able once again. Tomorrow is the last time the two of you will be friends, so make the best of it. Zabuza turned and headed back to his room. Haku frowned but turned and left the hideout. Unaware of the two figures following her at a distance, Haku arrived at the usual spot where she met Nar and found the boy reading a medical book. She smiled and entered the clearing. Hello, Naruto. Nar looked up from the book and smiled. Hello, Haku. Shall we start where we left off? Haku nodded and began teaching the boy where they had left off the day before. Both of the ninja didn't notice the several pairs of eyes watching them. A single pair closed as the owner let out a silent sigh. I have to tell Kakashi about this. So Narut, this is where you have disappearing to everyday. Takuro thought to himself before he narrowed his eyes at the two presences. He could sense from behind the two. She was followed as well. Or maybe an ambush against Narut. A fourth pair of eyes hardened as the man that owned them looked from Durro<unk>'s position to the other two. What are you two planning? If you plan to hurt my charges, I will destroy you. And you, White Skull, I'll be sure to punish if you prevent them from meeting again. The man watched over the entire clearing, waiting and watching for anything that would threaten the two teens below his hiding spot. The two teens took a break for lunch, and Nar pulled out a few sandwiches from a bag he had with him. "Hey, Haku." The girl looked to him as she took her sandwich. "I was wondering, do you know any water jutzu?" The girl nodded with a raised brow. Yes. Can you teach me a couple? I have a scroll on some ice jutzu, but I can't seem to get them to work correctly. I can get the ice to form, but I can't get the jutzu to work all the way. I was thinking that maybe I should work on wind and water before I try to use their combined element. Haku's eyes widened as Narut took a scroll from his vest pocket out and held it out to her. I know we're enemies, but I want to pay you back somehow for teaching me medicine. And if you can some water jutzu, I'll gladly let you learn a few of my own in exchange for all of this. Haku took the scroll and looked to it. White dragon nin jutzu. Narut nodded. I had just started trying to learn from it two days ago. Inside are mostly wind and ice style jutzu, but for some reason I'm having a hard time with the very first jutzu, which is an ice. I tried to open some of my other scrolls, but the only ones that would open for me are that one, the Tai Jutsu scroll and the Kenjutsu scroll. Haku looked to the scroll once again and took a deep breath before she attempted to open it. The man above them watched with a smirk on his masked face as the scroll opened for the girl, and he silently chuckled. She indeed is the first of the five. I shall have to watch over them very carefully to make sure they make it back to Kohaa. Nar, are you sure you want me to learn these? Nar nodded. You've helped me, so in return, I want to help you. Even if it's for a small amount of time, I still think I should repay you, no matter the inevitable." Haku smiled sadly and nodded. "Very well, then, I accept. I will teach you a few water jutzu in exchange for learning a few of your ice jutzu." Narut smiled widely and took a large bite out of his sandwich. Haku began eating her own and read through the first jutzu that she came across. Sharing his own jutzu with the enemy. Maybe he is a [ __ ] after all. Duro sighed and leapt away from his spot. A clone taking his place. This is not going to end well. So Naruto's been meeting with the hunter. Eh Takuro nodded, making Kakashi sigh. Well, that answers where he's been disappearing to after he sets up his clones. I guess we'll have to start watching him train then. If this hunter reports to Zabuza, anything that might put any of us in danger, we'll have to take her out before we get ourselves into any trouble. We don't know if Zabuza has anyone else under his wing. Takuro nodded and looked to where Sasuke and Sakura were working on sparing on top of water. I don't know, but I'll keep an eye on the two. If Naruto hands out any information to the girl, I'll take her out before she gets back to Zabuza. I have a clone watching them right now. Kakashi nodded and turned back to the two jennon. All right, you two start doing jutzu while maintaining your control. This way you're concentrating your chakra into your exercise and into your jutzu. Sasuke and Sakura both winded nodded and started to run through seals. It's a good thing we taught them both a different clone jutzu. The mud clone should be a lot more useful to them and Sakura should be more adept to earth jutzu anyway. Sasuke is good with fire, but that's only because of his clan. Dakuro nodded. So, when do you think he'll strike? Kakashi sighed. If I was a man that had taken two Sunbond to the neck to fake my death, I would attack at the very end of the week. That way, I know for a fact I'm at 100%. Takuro nodded. You stay with Tuna's family and I'll take Zabuza on. That sound good. Kakashi thought for a few seconds. Let's sit on that for a bit. Takiro nodded and watched as a large fireball exited from Sasuke's mouth while a smaller fireball shot from Sakura's. It's late. Nar told the girl as he looked to the red sky, showing the sun was setting. Haku looked up as well and nodded. Yeah, I guess this is the end of our training for the day. Narut sighed and looked to the girl. So, I take it we only have one last day then. Haku hung her head with a sad look. Unfortunately, yes. After tomorrow, we<unk>ll be enemies again. Narut frowned and turned back to the sky. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. I guess this will always be my fate to be alone with no real friends. All thanks to my status as a genturi. Haku snapped her head up at the boy as she watched him walk away. I know you've been wanting to know. I'm the genturiki of the ninetailed fox. Haku, if you still want to meet me here tomorrow, I'll be waiting. If not, I understand. Before Haku could say anything, Nar walked out of sight into the forest. She looked to the forest floor as tears leaked from her eyes. I'll be here. Naruto. Haku turned towards her hideout and vanished with a simple shin. From the trees, a clone of Duro sighed and dispelled itself. I see. So, his little pet has been going behind his back. Gatu asked his henchmen and he nodded. Yeah, boss. Saw her talking and training with the kid. Seems either doesn't know or is letting her do it to get close to the kid. Might be trying to kill the old man. Gatu scoffed and turned around in his chair, his back to the man like it matters. Either way, Zabuz is going to meet his end. Did you find out when he plans on going after the old man? They weren't really clear, but I think the day after tomorrow. They were saying that tomorrow would be their last day as friends. Gatu nodded. I see. And what about that shipment? Did it get here? Yes, sir. It's already loaded onto your yacht as you instructed. Gatu nodded. Good. Make sure they are wellfed. Oh, and send a couple of men to ambush the [ __ ] Bring the her to me. The man nodded. Yes, sir. Nar stood next to the lake he was training at when Haku was teaching him water jutzu when the sound of soft footsteps reached his ears. He stopped in the middle of the seals he was running though to turn and see Haku walking into the clearing. I thought you dash. You thought wrong, Naruto. Haku smiled to the boy and he smiled back kindly. Last day. Yes, it is. Narut turned to her and sighed. So, what dash? Don't go to the bridge tomorrow. Haku blurted out, making Narut looked to her with a raised brow. What do you mean? Don't Don't show up to the bridge. Zabuza sama and I will be waiting for you. All of you? Nar shook his head. Haku, I have to show up. Haku clenched her fists. Narut Kuen, please. I don't want to lose the only friend I have because of a stupid mission. Narut frowned and shook his head. I'm sorry, Haku, but I have to show up. I don't want to lose you either, Haku, but with you and Zabuza being missing ninja trying to kill my mission client. I have no choice." Narut smiled sadly to the girl. "If the two of you were with Kenoha, then this wouldn't have to happen, but you know it has to. We can't join Kohaa. know that they wouldn't let us anywhere near the gates and your hokage would dash. The old man sees me as his grandson. If I asked him, the two of you would have a better chance of survival. Zabuzama wouldn't agree. Do you truly know that? If you asked him, would he say no? Haku growled and glared at the boy. I'm only a tool. I have no right to sway his decision. Nar frowned at the girl. That's all we are, Naruto. We're tools of the villages that make us into ninja. Then how is it that we're friends? Haku closed her mouth as Narut growled at her. If we're tools like you say we are, Haku, then how is it that we have become friends? Tools don't have friends. Humans do. Well, normal humans anyway. Nar turned from the lake and started walking away from her and the clearing. If we're tools, Haku, then I best take my leave now and end our friendship. Goodbye. Narut jumped into the woods as Haku made to stop him. Clapping from the background made the girl look behind her to see five of Gatu's men walk out of the woods. Nice speech, babe. Haku cursed as she backed herself to the lake. Uh uh uh. Can't have you get too close to your element now, can we? I think you're right, Suko. Haku froze in midstep and looked behind her to see her path blocked. I owe you for that stunt you pulled back at your little hideout, [ __ ] Haku narrowed her eyes. What do you want, Suko? A bald man with a scar on his cheek chuckled. Gata sent us to get you. Said he wanted to repay you for breaking his arm. The teen growled as water started to rise from the lake. You picked. The water turned solid and created a large ice dragon. The wrong day to mess with me. The men before her pald at the size of the dragon while the group behind her looked up. Just because you have me and the lake separated doesn't mean I can't still create my jutzus. The girl threw a hand back behind her, intending to make the dragon attack the group behind her only for her eyes to go wide as the shadow of the ice dragon enlarged to make the great beast tower over the entire clearing. I lost control of it. But how? None of these fools should dash. Allow me, dear. A muffled voice called out as the dragon shattered. Nitro dagger. The shards of the dragon turned into sharp daggers that started to rain down on the entire field. Haku put her arm up to protect her head while the screams of Gatu<unk>s men filled the air. Once the sound of flying objects stopped and the screaming ceased. Haku looked up from her protective stance to see the entire group of Gatu's men and the entire clearing littered with ice daggers. There now, my dear. Can't have you getting harmed now, can we? Haku looked around for the voice. Show yourself. The voice chuckled loudly. I would, my dear, but you have yet to earn that right to meet me. Now, be a good little tool and return to your master. The voice spat the words like poison. After all, a tool should never leave their master's side unless. The tool has a new one per chance. Aha. The voice faded in laughter as Haku fell to her knees, slamming a fist to the ground and watching as all the bodies mysteriously vanished before her. They caught me off guard. How? How could I have been so careless? The girl looked to the lake. Whoever that was is a very powerful ice user. He managed to take control of my dragon, enlarge it, and create a new attack from it. Haku looked to the nearest ice dagger and reached for it. She pulled her hand back suddenly as if it burned her. So cold that it feels like you're getting burnt. Like nitrous oxide being sprayed at your hand. Nitro dagger, huh? Haku stood and looked around the clearing. Maybe I can recreate the attack. It'll be a while, but I think I can do it. Haku shook her head and started heading for her and Zabuz's hideout. Naruto looked back to the direction of Haku's chakra spike and frowned. What is she doing? Nar, everything okay? Duro appeared and looked to the boy. Narut nodded and resumed sparing with his clones in tai jutzu. Everything's fine, Turroan. The man frowned under his mask. He had seen the exchange between the two. You did the right thing, Narut, Tiurro stated, suddenly making Narut stop his match and sigh. I knew it was only a matter of time until you and Kakashi figured something was up. Takuro nodded. So, how long? Since yesterday. You've been showing up late for dinner all week, so Kakashi asked me to tell you and find out just what you were doing. Narut sighed and looked to the man after sending his clones to spar by themselves. Am I in trouble then? Duro shook his head. No, not unless you have given them some vital information about Kohaa or this mission they can use against us. Nar shook his head. It just isn't right. Ninja shouldn't be treated as tools. We're You're all human, too. Takuro noticed the change and frowned. Nar, you're human as well. You only have a single difference between us that doesn't make you any less human. Tell that to Kohaa. Naruto looked to the sky. I know Narut, but trust me, one day you'll be seen as who you really are. It may only be by one person or an entire village, but you will be seen as Narut Uzumaki. Ninja of Konoha and not your burden. Nar closed his eyes and nodded. What's the plan for tomorrow then? Duro I smiled to the boy. That is still up for debate. Kakashi and I are thinking of having Sakura. Sasuke and I escort Tzuna to the bridge while you and Kakashi stay dash. I want to fight. Nar looked to the man with determined eyes. I want to make them see they have a chance elsewhere. Takiro nodded. Nar, we're<unk> still debating, but I will keep it in mind. If I do go, I will give them the offer to come and join Kenoha's ranks. We can always use skilled swordsmen like Zabuza. And if that hunter is as strong as we think, her too. Narut nodded. Thank you. The Jonahan nodded. Now, I have some advice for your training. While the shadow clone jutzu is great and all with doing chakra related work, your body does require some attention as well. When tomorrow ends, I suggest you start training your body. You can do this by running laps and exercising. Though, if you want an expert's opinion, then seek out my guy in Kenoha. He's the number one tai jutzu specialist in the entire country and will be the best person to help you. Although his methods are a bit strange. Nar nodded. I'll think on that. I'll see you at dinner should you make it. I'll talk with Kakashi about the plan. Nar nodded once again and the man vanished in a swirl of leaves. Nar turned back to his clones and closed his eyes, clenching his fists. Haku. A Lamina growled, slamming a fist against the floor. Why won't they break? I break one seal it repairs itself. What the hell is going on? So, this is where you've been the last few days. Lamina looked over her shoulder to see Narut looking around his mind. I hate the look of this place. Then change it. It's your mind. The vixen snapped at him and turned back to the door. Aren't you supposed to be training? Narut looked at her from the corner of his eye. I'm meditating upside down on a tree. Thought it might help with my chakra control. The woman shrugged. What are you doing? Trying to break these damn seals and runes that are blocking your memories. Lamina turned her head to him with a glare. Now, if you don't mind, beat it. I'm pissed off enough that I don't look anything like I was before these things were placed here. Nar nodded. Fine, as you wish, Q.B. Lamina turned back to the door once again as Narut walked off into his mind. You're back early. Zabuza looked up from his spot on the floor as the door opened to show Haku walking in. He didn't show up. No, he did, but we had an argument. Zabuza rose a brow and rose to his feet from the push-ups he was doing. What happened? Haku frowned and crossed her arms over her chest. Feeling something against her arm. She reached into her right sleeve and pulled out a scroll. Shoot, I forgot to give it back. Zabuza walked over and snatched it from the girl. White dragon named jutzu. Zabuza tried to open the scroll only for the object to hold tight. What? He tried adding chakra to the white dragon head and tried again only for it to remain closed. The damn thing won't open. Haku looked at the scroll confusingly and took it from him. She tried opening the scroll and succeeded. Huh? That's strange. Can you read it? Haku turned it around and watched as the man shook his head. No, it's blank to me. It seems that it's attuned to only you and possibly the brat. I wonder why it would open for you when you're both enemies. Haku shook her head. Anyway, what went wrong? He He wants us to come to Kohaa. I told him it was solely up to you. since I'm only a tool. Zabuza frowned but quickly recovered. I told him that as a tool, I have no right to sway your decision. He then said that if I was a tool, how did the two of us become friends? He went on saying that we're still human, but quickly wrote himself off as something not human because of the curse he carries since the day of his birth. The man rose a brow. He has a bloodline and he's dash. No, something bigger. What is it? Haku bit her lip. Should I? I mean, he trusted me with his secret. But we're enemies now, aren't we? A hand waved in front of her face, and she looked up to Zabuza's face. You there? He's a genturi. Zabuza closed his eyes and sighed. The worst fate a newborn could get is to have a demon sealed into your gut on the very day of your birth. Zabuza muttered. I take it he has the nine tales. Haku nodded and the man turned away from her. I need to think on this. I'll have a plan by dinner. Should I tell him about? No, we need the money. If I tell him, then we'll be on the run again. Yes, Zabuza sama. Haku bowed and walked out of the room. Zabuz's black eyes watching her move. What do I do? Kagura. Good. You're all here. Kakashi I smiled to his team as they all sat down for dinner. Now, here is the problem. There is a good chance that starting tomorrow, Zabuza could attack Tzuna. I'm sure that the hunter who helped him has been taking care of his wounds as well. While I'm not at full strength, Duro and the rest of you are. Therefore, Takuro and I have agreed on this. Sasuke, Sakura, and I will escort Tzuna to the bridge. Takuro took over for Kakashi. Kakashi and Narut will patrol the house in case Gatu or Zabuza sends anyone to attack Tzuna's family. This way, Kakashi and Nar will be enough to take out the hunter or any thugs should they appear instead since Zabuza would most likely attack the bridge to either buy time for hostages to be acquired or for a frontal assault. Takuro and I have taught you everything we could think of to try and prepare you to have some type of fighting chance against the hunter since he or I will be taking on Zabuza depending on where he shows up. We need each of you to be ready for any type of threat. Remember, if you don't kill your enemy today, they will come back to haunt you. Naruto looked to his meal in silence as Sasuke and Sakura nodded to the two men. Nar? Yes. Nar looked up at his sensei and the man's brother. Are you all right with this plan? Kakashi asked the boy. Yes. Kakashi frowned under his mask and nodded. Very well. Everyone be sure to head to bed early tonight and be ready in the morning. We all need to be at full strength. The Jennon nodded as they continued to eat their meal. Halfway through his Narut pushed the plate away and stood from his seat. I need to think. Nar started walking away and out of the house. Kakashi watched the boy with a frown. I hope you know what you're doing, Durro. The man nodded as he stood from his seat. Don't worry, I'll try my best. The man started for his shared room with Kakashi when Sakura looked to Kakashi. What's wrong with that baka? First, he thinks he can be late to everything. Then, he won't listen to you, and now he's Dash. Shut up. Sasuke growled at her. Use that damned head of yours before I break your hand and shut the hell up. Sakura looked to the boy with surprised fear. You don't know the first thing about him other than what you think you know. Hell, none of us know the real him. If you took time out of annoying the hell out of me for a date to actually look at Nar and his lifestyle, then maybe you would see him as anything other than a baka. Sasuke stood from his seat. He lives in a [ __ ] hole apartment where you live in a home with family. He and I are more alike than you could ever think, but you're too hung up on what you think I am that you don't see anything else around you besides me. Sasuke started for the stairs, looked back over his shoulder. Start learning to respect your teammate, Sakura, because he's obviously the strongest of the three of us. Kakashi watched Sasuke walk up the stairs while Sakura looked to her food. He's right, you know, Kakashi told the girl. I've made my screw-ups as well, Sakura. You and Sasuke are the only two that I've been training and I've just been pushing Naruto to the side. After this mission, Sakura, I'm calling in a team mission for us all to look at the past and see just who our teammates really are. Sakura nodded as Kakashi stood and walked around the table. You've gotten stronger during this week, Sakura. If you want my opinion, I've always thought you would do well in medical and genetsu. You're not a child anymore. You're an adult. It's time to let all those fairy tale dreams go and look for reality. Show Sasuke and Narut that you can be just as strong as either of them and possibly even stronger. Sakura looked up to Kakashi and smiled slightly. Thanks, Kakashi sensei. Kakashi smiled and walked away from the table, heading for his room. Nar walked down the steps of Tzuna's house the next morning in full gear and hood up, his blue eyes glowing slightly from under the hood. He walked outside and spotted Kakashi and the rest of the team standing outside with Tzuna. All right, we're all here. Kakashi announced and turned to Duro. If you need any assistance, just send a flare up and Narut or I will rush right over. Takuro nodded and turned to the three. Let's go. The two Jennon nodded and started to follow the man with Tzuna between them. Kakashi turned to Nar. I know you wanted to go, but I need you here now. I'm going to search the forest surrounding the house. I need you to stay here at the house and protect Tsunami and Inari from harm. Nar looked up to the man and nodded. Kakashi turned and ran into the forest while Narut turned and headed for the back of the house to look around for anything out of the ordinary. Nar was coming back to the front of the house when he heard crashing from the inside and tsunami screaming from the kitchen. He silently snuck into the house and made his way to the kitchen. So this the broad the boss wanted us to grab. Eh Nar peered around the corner to see two men standing in the kitchen, cornering tsunami against the wall. Nar heard another pair of footsteps and saw Inari walking into the kitchen. What happened? The boy screamed only for one of the thugs to knock him away. Don't hurt him. The thug walked over to the boy and picked him up by the front of his shirt. Hey. Gata said he only wanted the [ __ ] right? The other thug that wore an eye patch nodded. "Sure, do whatever you want. Besides, once Sabuza and those leaf ninja are dead, the boss is going to let us have fun with his apprentice, too. Stop. If you hurt him, I'll bite off my tongue and drown in my own blood." The two turned back to the woman as Narut clenched his fists in anger. This ends now. Naruto pulled out two kana and let them fly as he entered the kitchen. The two kana found their mark, one in each man's head, and Narut watched as they fell to the floor. A fast set of footsteps from behind showed the entry of Kakashi with a drawn kana. You all right? Nar nodded and started for the door. I'm heading for the bridge. Nar called over his shoulder only for Kakashi to place a hand on his shoulder. Nar, I need you here. Gata sent these two. He plans on betraying Zabuza and Haku. I'm not going to let that stand. Nar shrugged the man's hand away and ran for the bridge. Kakashi cursed as he watched the cloaked blonde vanish into the woods. This fog is really thick. Tazuna spoke as they walked onto the building sight of the bridge. The group of three stopped in their tracks as some of the mist cleared away to show seven Zabuzas standing around them. Good of you to arrive, Tiro. Where's Kakashi and the brat? Takuro sighed. They're dealing with Tuna's family. I have an offer for the two of you, Zabuza. The man chuckled from the mist as his clones reached for their Xanbitus. Takuro sighed and nodded. Do it. Sasuke smirked and vanished in a burst of speed, appearing in his original spot seconds later. as the clones exploded into water. Looks like you might have arrival, Haku. The mist completely vanished and Zabuza dropped down to the bridge from his hiding spot with Haku. Possible. However, I believe the blonde dash. Let's cut to the chase. Zabuza Turo cut the hunter off. I'm offering both you and Haku here a chance to join Kohaa under our protection. If the Hokag refuses to allow you to join our ranks, I personally will escort you to whichever border you wish. No strings. Zabuza chuckled and shook his head. Sorry, Hitaki, but that sounds loaded to me. Haku, take the kids. I'll take Hitaki. The hunter nodded and rushed at the two jennon the same time Zabuza rushed to Kurro. Very well, Takiro muttered and drew his sword as he countered Zabuza's rush. Then you shall learn the legend of the white skull. The two met with a clash of steel, and Zabuza watched with wide eyes as white chakra started to cover Turo<unk>'s face and shape into a white skull. Are you ready for your grave, Zabuza? The Jonan's voice had become darker and more of a growl. Turro pushed the man away, breaking the lock the two had from a clash of blades. The Jonan slashed at the man, and Zabuza jumped back to avoid a blade of white chakra to cut into the spot where he once stood. You manipulate your chakra into a blade that can be launched from your sword. Duro<unk>'s skull-co-vered face smirked evily as white chakra cover both his arms and his sword. You'll just have to find out. Duro spun and brought his empty hand up in an arch slash, sending another blade sailing towards the man. Zabuza cursed and rolled to the side, forming seals for a jutzu. Ninja art dash. Don't think so. The man went wideeyed as a kick from behind sent him sailing forward. Duro rushed the man once again, sword ready when a second zabuza appeared and brought its sword down on the man. The smirk on Duro<unk>'s skull widened as he rolled out of the way. He rose his empty left hand and brought it down in a slash before rushing the clone. The clone rolled out of the way of the white blade of chakra, only for a ninja two to be stabbed through its head. Ninja art hidden mist jutzu. The smirk died and turned into a frown. Now, where's the fun in that, Zabuza? What's he planing? Takuro looked around for the man, his sight hindered by the mist. His warning sense went off, and he rolled to the side as a large sword was brought down where he stood. He stood up in a defensive stance and saw Zabuza's eyes glaring at him as he hoisted the sword back onto his back. He silently vanished into the mist, Duro looking around for him. You seem to forget, Hitaki, that I'm also a master of the silent killing technique. While this mist does hinder my sight as well, I still have other senses that can be used against you. Now, where do I strike? Takuro<unk>'s white skull smirked a bit. Oh, you actually made this a challenge then. Well then, Zabuzza, let's see what you can do. The man vanished in a swirl of mist just as a group of shuriken passed through where his body would have been. Duro appeared on one of the high up support beams and looked down on the mist covered bridge. Where are you? He vanished once again when another barrage of shuriken left the mist and headed for him. He reappeared higher up and looked around the bridge. All right, from what I can sense, Sakura is with Tzuna. Sasuke is [ __ ] He must be in that dome the girl made. Ice jutsu, ha. Duro sighed and looked to support tower, seeing how far it went up. I guess that could work. Duro jumped higher up to the top of the tower and looked down to the mist. Hit high jutzu. White blade barrage. Duro rose his sword and started to slash all over the place. Careful not to send any blades towards Sakura and Tuna. After the 50th slash, he rose his sword above his head and started to spin it before slashing downward on last time. Where did he vanish to this dash? Oschai. Zabuza cursed out loud as he started to weave in and out of the falling blades of white chakra. He's must be pretty high up to be able to have these things rain down like this. Zabuza cursed as a blade managed to nick his arm, leaving a semi-de cut on his upper arm. He growled as he sensed a massive source of chakra falling right on top of him. He growled as he used the shin to avoid it. Time to end this. Zabuza inwardly growled to himself as he made his way to Sakura and Tazuna. Where is he now? Turro looked down on the battlefield with his skull cover face and narrowed his eyes as he looked to where Sakura and Tazuna were. The client. Diurro vanished from his spot and appeared just in time to deflect Zabuza's sword from cutting the two in half. While the mist ninja sword managed to cut into Diurro's forearm, Zabuza smirked under his mask and vanished into the mist again. "Turo sensei, are you all right?" Sakura asked the man as she watched the blood flow from the man's arm. Takuro nodded, the skull on his face a serious stare as it gazed into the mist. I am Fina. Be ready to perform that earth jutzu I taught you at any time. Sakura nodded as Durro looked to his arm with a frown. He actually managed to get me. The first since itachi. So the great white skull of Kohaa isn't the undead monster the rumors made you out to be. Zabuza's voice echoed from the mist. Well, that all depends on who's fighting me. Durro frowned as he looked to the mist. This has gone on long enough. Diurro pulled out a scroll and wiped his blood on the inside after he opened it. I'm sorry, Zabuza, but this has to come to an end. The Jonan rolled the scroll shut with a snap and ran through seals with it still in his hands. Earth style fanged pursuit jutzu. Sasuke didn't know what the hell was wrong. First, he was fighting against the hunter ninja on pretty much equal grounds when she pulled this ice mirror dome trick. Then he started to get littered with Senbon. After several waves, he noticed that he was starting to see her movements clearer and clearer with each wave. "Damn it, how could I have fallen for this trap? Are you ready to surrender?" Haku's reflection could be seen in all of the mirrors. Sasuke growled and ran through the seals for a fire jutzu. Fire style. Great fireball jutzu. Sasuke took a deep breath and blew out a giant fireball at the nearest mirror. The fireball connected with the ice mirror, but the mirror held strong. Once the jutzu ended, Sasuke glared at the still standing ice mirror. "Normally, you would be correct in using fire against my ice. However, as long as there is water in the air, my mirrors will continuously mend themselves." Haku called from one of the mirrors and launched from it, starting another barrage of senbon at the boy. Once the attack on him ended, Sasuke was left panting and looking around the dome with crimson red eyes. Damn it, she's too fast. And with all these reflections and mirrors, there's no telling where she'll strike from next. Sasukun, get Sasuke looked outside the dome for the voice to see Sakura throwing a canai towards him. That won't help you. Haku announced as she came out of a nearby mirror and caught the cany. I guess it's time Dash Aurken cut off Haku as it slashed into her mask and made her fall from her mirror. Sasuke felt someone grab onto his shirt and suddenly found himself being thrown out of the dome. Your fight is with me, Haku. The female hunter stood to her feet and turned to the inside of the dome. Sasuke and Sakura looked at the blonde as Haku clenched her fists. I told you not to come here. Nar nodded. So you did, but I need you to listen to me. Haku narrowed her eyes behind her mask as she re-entered her mirror dome to stand across from Narut. And why should I? Because Gatu plans to betray you both. He sent a couple of thugs to Tzuna's to kidnap his daughter as a hostage. He's most likely on his way now. Haku shook her head as her mirrors shattered. I sorry, Naruto Kuan, but I'm afraid I can't go against Zabuza sama. Thousand needles of death. Nar sped through seals as the sunbond formed and flew at him. Water style water wall. The mist gathered around Nar and created a wall as Haku ran through her own seals. The sunbon met with the wall and melted into their base state as Nar noticed the wall stop rotating and start to freeze. Ice style ice prison jutzu. Nar growled and jumped up and through the closing exit. He landed on top of the prison and shot towards the masked ninja. Just stop it, Narut yelled out as he drew his sword. Haku, holding out a hand as a sword of ice formed. You know I can't. Ice style ice brand. The two swords met and Narut gritted his teeth as he pushed off the girl's sword. You've learned a lot from that scroll I gave you. Haku noted. And I thank you. Haku rushed at the boy and Nar brought his sword up to block the downward cut. But that doesn't change anything. Nar pushed the girl off and kicked out with his knee, catching her in the gut. Why won't you listen? Nar growled as Haku got to her feet and lifted the sword above her head. Kenjutsu wind style sonic razor. Nar watched as Haku brought her sword down in an arch and a blade of wind raced towards him, tearing the concrete of the bridge up. Nar cursed and dove out of the way before rolling once more from a wave of senbon. Nar used the roll to get back to his feet and rushed the girl. Listen to me. Why oh why did I teach her the shadow clone jutzu? Nar shouted at the girl as the two met with a clash of blades. Nar growled as he broke the standstill and used a leg sweep on Haku only for the girl to jump out of the way. Nar drew two canai and tossed them at her midair form. Ice shell jutzu. Haku yelled out and a shell of ice surrounded her. taking the impact from the canai. The dome shattered and the girl was nowhere to be found. "Damn, where is she?" Nar looked around, finding nothing when his danger senses from years of abuse kicked in, and he rolled backwards, avoiding a rain of large icicles. He grunted in pain when he felt the cold blade of Haku's sword stab his left arm. "But I was aiming for his heart. Why did I change?" Haku wondered, her brown eyes glaring into Naruto's own, her mask having shattered at some point during the fight. "Hey, the mist is clearing," Sakura called out as Sasuke's sharing eyes scanned through the mist. Haku's eyes left Naruto's and looked to the direction of Zabuza to see him pinned to his spot by a large group of dogs. Nar grabbed Haku's arm and drew her in closer, only to kick her away, her sword being ripped from his arm and her hand. Nar walked over to her only to watch her form a mirror. "Goodbye, Naruto," she whispered and vanished into the mirror. Nar turned to Durro and cursed, rushing to stop the man from slaying both of the ninja. "Any last requests?" "My offer still stands," Zabuza Takuro asked as he sheathed his sword and covered his right arm in chakra. Zabuza narrowed his eyes at the man, making the skull face Jonan frown. Very well as you wish. Hi jutzu white-handed knife. Zabuza watched as Durro<unk>'s hand became entirely white. The man drew his hand back and rushed at him, intending to end it in one blow. Stop! Narudo cried out, and the man closed his eyes as he stabbed forward. "Ice shell jutzu!" Haku cried as soon as she exited the mirror and stood in front of Zabuzza. the mist Jonan's eyes as wide as plates as the shell formed over her. Takuro snapped his eyes open as the sound of shattering ice met his ears and his hands stop after losing the chakra built up right in Haku's chest, a quarter of his hand inside the girl's body. Zabuza felt the stinging bite of the dogs that held him down vanish and watched as Nar pushed the man out of the way. "Goddamn it!" the blonde yelled, dropping his sword to the ground and catching the girl as she fell. Why didn't you just [ __ ] listen to me? Nar growled to her as she heaved, trying to breath. Your job was over the moment I told you about Gatu's plan. Zabuza looked to the kid with a raised brow when his eyes went wide and his senses screaming at him. Move. Zabuza tackled the kid away as several arrows landed right where the men's heads would have been and Haku fall to the ground. The entire group of Shinobi looked to the end of the bridge to see Gatu and a group of thugs standing near the edge of the incomplete bridge. Ao, the demon of the mist is nothing but a baby. How sad. Gatu moved forward to the barely alive Haku and snarled at her. I owe you for breaking my wrist. Gata drew his foot back and kicked the girl in the right side of her chest, causing her to gasp for air in even more pain as her wound bled out. Too bad you're dying, [ __ ] I was going to train you as my personal slave. Narut and Zabuza stood to their feet as Gatu looked to them and Duro was met by Sakura and Sasuke. Gatu, what's the meaning of this? Zabuza growled as the man smirked to him. You ninja are so expensive, you know, always asking for the highest you can. For a quarter of your price, I could get twice this many henchmen. Gatu pointed his thumb over his shoulder at the group of thugs. Ah, but that's just the topping of my little cake. You see, I came to acquire some special creatures that will be taking care of you today. Now, enjoy your last moments." Gatu turned and started back for his boat, raised the cage, and let him loose. Gata shouted, and one of the men pressed a button. Everyone watching as a large cargo crate rose at the end of the bridge and settled onto the bridge. Nar picked up the sounds of howls and barking coming from the cage. Gatu was soon standing on the top of the crate and smirked at the ninja as the door opened. Go my little razor wolves, kill them. In the trees, a pair of eyes widened as 10 blue blurs shot out of the crate and at Haku. Those are supposed to be extinct. Water style. Water dragon jutzu. Zabuza called out and the dragon shot forward as soon as it formed. The dragon roared as it smashed into one of the blurs just before it reached Haku. pushing Chakra into the dragon. He turned its path to circle the girl. Water style water wall. The dragon roared one last time before turning into a giant wall, stopping the group of blurs from advancing. Durro drew his sword and channeled his clan special chakra into his blade. "This might not end well," the skull-faced man muttered and vanished, reappearing in front of the downed body before taking a stance. "Someone, come up and grab the girl. Zabuza and I will take care of these things for the moment. Naruto looked to Sasuke and Sakura. Who's in? Sasuke smirked as he drew a canai and flashed his shinggon. Let's<unk> go. Sakura cracked her knuckles as Narut looked to Tzuna. He created three clones and had them surround him. They'll take you home. Kakashi should still be there. Nar called out and turned to the group of blurs that now stood before Zabuza and Diurro. The creatures that Gatu called razor wolves were the same height as a full-grown wolf. Their heads were more pointed than a normal animals, and each of them were bearing their very sharp teeth. They each stood on their larger back legs, while the front paws were acting more like hands. The creature's eyes were all red, and their back fur was standing up like spikes. One of the wolves howled and tucked itself into a tight ball before starting to spin, picking up speed and concrete as it spun. The wolf launched itself at the two Joonin with speed unheard of in a wolf. Duro. Yes, I think I'll take you up on that offer. Zabuza growled as he brought his sword down on the approaching wolf and went wideeyed as the spinning wolf and the misted ninja's blade came to a standstill. These things, it's like they're armored. Zabuza watched as the speed of the spin died and made his move, swinging his massive cleaver downward with chakra added to the blade. The massive sword cut right through the wolf as if it was nothing. Takuro narrowed his eyes as a second wolf came running at them. He channeled his chakra into his sword and slashed just as the wold reached him. The blade only cutting halfway through the creature's neck before it fell in a pool of blood. The other wolves growled and rushed at them just as Narut, Sasuke, and Sakura came up. Fire style dragon missile jutzu. Sasuke blew a dragon from his mouth just as Sakura finished her seals. Earthstyle mud wall. The girl slammed her hands to the bridgeg's concrete and watched as a wall rose up in the path of one of the spinning wolves. Water style. Water bullet jutzu. Nar shot several bullets of water from his mouth. Fire style. Dragon flame bomb. A stream of fire joined the three attacks and drowned them out, bathing the wolves in nothing but fire. The team felt someone drop next to them and everyone turned to see Kakashi with his sharing eye visible. Sasuke, when you get the chance, take a look at your eyes. Sasuke smirked. Too late. Hull. The team turned and watched as the last eight wolves stood burned, but still alive and more pissed than anything. Uggh. What the hell is all that? What the f you seek are those things doing still alive? Nar rolled his eyes as the wolves charged them. Nar, give me control. I can kill them all in one move. Nar rolled to the side as a claw almost took his face clean off. Nar looked to where Zabuza was still standing, determined to not let them near Haku. Nar fine. Everything and everyone froze at the sudden explosion of killing intent from Nar. The blond's hair became wild. His eyes red with slit pupils. His hands became claws and his teeth fangs. I'll send you back to hell. Pyro pillar. Nar thrust a hand towards the group and everyone watched as three of the wolves became engulfed in a giant pillar of fire that rose into the sky for miles. Nar turned to his left and glared at one that was rolling towards him. Flame. A fireball formed above Naruto's head and shot towards the incoming wolf, watching as the flame smashed into it and sent it flying off the edge of the bridge. Look out. Kakashi shouted and started a line of seals. Chidi Dori. Kakashi took off in a burst of speed and slammed his attack into the head of one of the wolves that were coming up behind Zabuza. I owe you Kakashi. Zabuza took out two kana and tossed them behind the silver-haired Jonan. The man heard the sound of flesh being penetrated and turned to find a wolf at his feet with two kunai in its own head. I guess we're even. Kakashi looked at the last two wolves that stood together watching the fight. Narut turned towards them and growled. Burning rain. Fire started to rain from the sky towards the two wolves and everyone watched as they took hit after hit. Once the barrage of falling fire ended, everyone looked to the end of the bridge to see Gatu cowering at his spot on top of his cage. He said they couldn't be beaten. Gatu mumbled to himself and turned to his men. Kill them. Kill each and every one of them. The men nodded and started to move forward when another voice called out. It seems you have made a grave mistake, Gatu. A bolt of lightning struck the ground near Zabuza and Narut narrowed his red eyes at the man. You? The magic emperor chuckled evily as he gazed at Nar through his helmet before turning to Gatu. Ah, so you are in control, my dear. If I may ask, please return control to Nar. I would hate to disrupt your power once again. The emperor took a few steps forward. Before any of you ask, I am called the magic emperor. Now, I believe you have interfered in my mission, Gatu. I don't take lightly to such things. One of which is kicking a girl when she's down and dying, especially when she's one of the five. The man rose a hand to the sky. Kiss your life goodbye, Gatu, for it shall burn in the fires of hell. Inferno. Everyone went wideeyed as a giant fireball started forming above the entire bridge. The fireball grew to a humongous size before Emperor swiftly brought his hand down and it started to rain fire towards Gatu and his men. No, wait. A dash. Gatu was struck with a massive fireball right in the chest. His suit caught fire and spread all over too quickly to be controlled. Gatu's men all found themselves running for the edge of the bridge to escape, only to fail as fireballs struck them. Once the last of the businessman's men fell in a burning heap, the magic emperor turned to Haku and Zabuza. He started to walk towards him only for him to be faced with a cub. Controlled Narut in his path, the sword of Althena in his hands. What are you doing back? I thought we killed you. The magic emperor narrowed his eyes behind his mask. Step aside, Lamina Alsa, or I will remove you myself. I have a mission and you stopping me from reaching the girl will not be tolerated. Zabuza reached for his sword's handle. What interest do you have in Haku? The man looked to the Joonin and smirked. The interest Zabuza Mimochi is that she is one of the five that has been chosen by the dragons. I will not I cannot allow her to die or I may end up having to wait for the next chosen one. And knowing the luck that I have, given the last time I was revived, there will never be one. Now step aside. Emperor pushed past Narut and then stood before Zabuza. I only intend to help her survive. Now move. Zabuza narrowed his eyes at the man but moved aside, letting the armored man kneel down to Haku's heavily breathing body. The white dragon has indeed blessed you with his power child. Your wound is hardly bleeding, but given time, you will die. Haku turned her head to the man's mask. Lamina, bring the boy's body over here and give his control back. Lamina growled and walked over to the man and everyone watched as Naruto's features turned to normal. Child, you have seen me correct? Nar looked to the man confusingly before his memory caught up with him. You were in that dream. The masked man shook his head. That was no dream, boy. That scroll you happened to open was a special one. took you to the realm of the five dragons of Althena. They have long since passed from this world due to a dark god wanting to destroy the world. Their blood lives on in five different people. However, I know not who they are. Now, allow me to see that scroll once again. Nar pulled out his master scroll and unsealed the scroll the emperor was asking for. Blue dragon of Althena, I seek your aid. Grant me the ability of your magic so that I may save the white air. The scroll started to gain a faint blue color when a blue dragon's head emerged from the scroll. Be grateful, magic emperor, that I have forgiven you for your misdeeds you have committed against me and my kin. Very well. You may have the power of the blue dragon to heal the child. But I warn you, emperor, if any one of the five die, including our chosen dragon master, then all will be lost. Guide dragon master Naruto well or all will be lost with Zofur's fourth rebirth. Everyone watched as the head and glow faded and a small object fell to the concrete of the bridge. Emperor picked it up, held it over Haku, and started to concentrate. Blue dragon healing. The crest in the man's gauntlet covered hand glowed a bright blue when the transparent image of a giant dragon with blue fur and rainbow color wings appeared and roared before bursting into small particles of light. The lights shot into Haku and the girl gasped as she felt energy flow through her body. The stab wound healing before everyone's eyes, not leaving any trace of the wound. The crest in the magic emperor's hand cracked and finally shattered to dust. The man stood and started to walk away from the group. My task for now is complete. Take care of each other, Narut Haku. I'll be watching over you until we meet again. The man's body started to blink before he turned into a purple ball of energy and shot off into the sky. Zabuza turned to Haku and helped her to her feet. Are you all right? Haku nodded, looking over her body for anything abnormal. I feel great like I just woke up from a good night's sleep. Zabuza sama. Zabuza shook his head. Stop calling me that, Haku. You're not a tool. Haku opened her mouth, but Zabuza held a hand up. I know. I raised you to think that's all we are, but we're not. I made a grave mistake in raising you, Haku. You had your first kills at four, and I was only looking at taking back the hidden mist from a corrupt Mizukage. Raising you has changed me, Haku. Besides, I'm looking at a goal that will most likely get me killed, and you're following me blindly, doing whatever you're told. When I saw you come back from your meetings with a little brat here, Zabuza nodded his head at Nar. I saw something that wasn't natural for you. I saw you truly happy for the first time since I took you in. Zabuza placed a hand on her shoulder. Time for you to do your own thing, Haku. Be your own master. As for me, well, I hear the Hokag is a kind old man. Takuro, who had stopped the chakra flow to his face as soon as the emperor left. I smiled under his mask. I don't know where you want to go or what you want to do, Haku. But just know that you've been the daughter I've never had. The one I almost had. Haku's eyes started to get misty as Zabuza looked to Kakashi. So, the deal's still standing, right? Kakashi, I smiled as he lowered his headband. Of course. However, we'll be here for a while. After all, we did say we'd stay until the bridge is complete. And with all the damage done to the bridge, I think it's going to be longer than we thought. Zabuza nodded. Well, then I suggest we head to the old man's house to let him know that Gatu's dead and he has no need to dash. What the hell have you done to my bridge? Everyone turned to see Tzuna standing on the bridge, gaping at the damage that has been done. Behind him, a large mob of villagers stood there. Kakashi and Dakuro looked to each other. He did it. The two pointed to each other and yelled at the same time while Narut, Sasuke, and Sakura just sweat dropped. What the hell do you mean Kakashi did it, Durro? You were the one that was making it rain white chakra blades. Takuro hung his head as Zabuza smirked at the man. Anyway, I have an old man to apologize to. Come on, Haku. Right, Tusan. Zabuza stopped in his tracks and looked over his shoulder at the girl. You sure you want me for a parent? My hands are too stained with blood. Haku smiled. You raised me, trained me, and never have you done anything against me. Zabuza nodded, and the two started walking towards Tzuna. The old man started to sweat bullets as the Jonan and Hunter walked up to him. The two stopped before him and Zabuza frowned at the angry villagers behind him. "Look, old man, I know we tried to kill you and all, but it's over with now. You don't have to worry about Gatu anymore since he got fried. Literally, Haku and I, well, we're sorry about all this." The old man blinked for a few seconds before smiling. Well, then you can repay me and my country by helping me repair and finish this bridge. Oh, that goes for you, Leaf Ninja, too. Zabuza smirked under his bandages as Kakashi and Diurro nodded. We<unk>ll be glad to, Tzuna. We<unk>ll be glad to. Kakashi called back and looked over his shoulder at the team. Well, team, let's head back to Tzuna's and take a well-deserved rest. Tomorrow we helped Tuna with his bridge building and I'll even make it out to be a form of training. The three jennon nodded and followed their sensei and Durro up to where Zabuza and Haku were talking with some of the villagers. Old man Saratobi sat at his desk fighting his and every other Kag's worst enemy paperwork when a popping sound rang through the room. He looked up from the document he was reading and frowned when he met face to face with a small pug. Packin, how nice to see you. I hope everything is all right with Kakashi and his team. Packin nodded. Everything going well. Anyway, I have a letter here from Duro and Kakashi. They need a reply ASAP. The Hokag noticed the scroll tied to the pug's back and took it off the dog. He opened and started to read it, his frown growing more and more concerned before splitting into a [ __ ] eating grin. He looked to the pug with that same grin. Tell Kakashi and Diurro that I will hear Zabuza and his daughter out once they arrive here in Kohaa. Also, let Kakashi know that I will have what he's asking for ready and waiting once his team reports in and that I'll be waiting at the gates the day of their return. However, I need an hour's warning before they reach the gates. The pug nodded. I'll do that, but before I go, the Hokag looked to the pug with a raised brow. Would you like to shake my paw? The old man face faulted face first onto his desk. The old man looked up and glared at the pug. Please just deliver the message. The pug sighed and vanished from the office. Saratobi leaned back in his chair and smirked. It's good to see that Kakashi is asking for Durro to stay with the team as a co-sensei and one of the seven swordsmen of the mist joining our ranks would be a great addition to our forces. I just wonder what Kakashi meant when he said a new bloodline may be joining Kohaa as well, but to keep it under wraps. It seems I will have to ask him upon their return. A loud roar filled the sky, and the Hokag looked out of his window to see a transparent figure fly to the north, a mixture of white and brown fur. Strange. For a moment, that almost looked like a dragon. Chapter 4. Well, everyone, time for us to head back to Kohaa. Kakashi announced as he and his team, Zabuza, Haku, and Akiro, all stood on the now completed bridge with Tzuna, his family, and the villagers. Tzuna nodded to the man. Thank you all of you for everything you've done for our village and our country. You two, Zabuza Haku. You protected our country from Gatu and his wolves. There is a legend in Wave about those razor wolves. They are said to have been the creation of a dark god in his quest to conquer the world. The legend is over a thousand years old. Not once did we think it true until today. Zabuza and Haku nodded. You'll come back and visit us, won't you? Inari asked the ninja from next to his mother as the woman smiled to them. We will try, but it won't be very often. Takuro replied to the child with an eye smile. Tzuna, remember to send a letter to the Hokag when you're in need of us again. I'm sure he takes requests. The old man nodded with a smile and rose his bottle of sake. To the seven heroes of Wave. May they have a safe journey to their homes. The crowd roared its praise of the team as Kakashi turned to the group. Let's roll everyone. We're a day behind our return date. Everyone nodded and started running at a ninja pace towards Kohaa. Nar stopping after a bit and looking over his shoulder. Sasuke stopped next to him with a raised brow. Something wrong, Nar? Nar thought for a moment before shaking his head. Just felt like something was calling me. Sasuke looked back to the bridge. We<unk>ll see them again, and next time we'll be stronger, both individually and as a team. Narut nodded and turned back towards his now stopped group. "Come on, Nar. Sasuke," Sakura called out, her hair shorter than it once was. Let's go home, Naruto. Sasuke muttered to the teen, and the two caught up to their group. Tzuna and his village watched as they faded out of sight and turned to the bridge he worked so hard to build. Tsunami looked to her father with a smile. You know, father, what you said had a nice ring to it. Tuna looked to her with a raised brow. The seven heroes bridge. Tzuna gained a [ __ ] eating grin and nodded. My daughter, that is the best idea for a name I've heard in a long time. Tzuna turned his gaze to the villagers. From this day forth, this bridge shall be known as the Seven Heroes Bridge in tribute to those that saved our nation from not only a tyrant, but the monsters of a long-forgotten legend. The crowd went wild with praise. Here they come, Hokag sama, Izzumo. A tunin of kinoa and one of the gatekeepers called to the old man as he sat in the gatekeeper's booth. The hokag nodded and placed his pipe into his mouth and walked out of the booth to watch his Kakashi, Dakuro, Zabuza, and the teens all land before him from the trees. Narut with his hood up and his entire head covered in shadows. Team Kakashi reporting from a successful C-ranked mission. Kakashi announced to the old man from a kneeling position. Turo looked up from his own kneeling position. Tiro Hataki reporting from a completed a ranked mission. Hokag sama. The Hokag nodded as he turned to the still standing Zabuza and Haku. I welcome you to our village Mimochi Sanan. I hope you and your daughter are given a warm welcome for your stay here. Please follow me to my office along with Durro Kakashi and his team. We shall talk about Duros and Kakashi's offer there. Zabuza nodded. The group followed the man through the village. The group continued to gain many stairs. Many of them directed towards Zabuza, Haku, and Nar. Is that Zabuza Mimochi? Who's the kid in red? Wow. One of the seven swordsmen of the hidden mist. Do you think he might have died on their mission? I don't see it anywhere. Maybe the Hitaki brothers killed it. I mean, he did kill Dash. Shu, not so loud. The Hokag is right there. Oh my god. Zabuza of the bloody mist in our village. I have got to get his autograph. The entire group sweat dropped at the many whispers that could be heard as the group reached the tower. Haku looked at Narudo as they walked up the tower steps to the Hokag's office, watching the blood drip from the boy's clenched fists. He really does have it worse than any bloodline user in Kiri. Oh, Hokaga Sama, you've returned. The secretary looked up from the sound of footsteps. She smiled as the old man nodded to her, walking towards his office door. Just as she was about to say something else, the old man spoke first. No one is to interrupt my meeting. Take messages for any calls. Finish up with your current paperwork that you need to have done, and you may leave. If anyone tries to enter my office without my say, so you are to inform the U right away. The woman's eyes went wide as she nodded. The group of Shinobi walked into the office of the Hokag to see a one-armed man with bandages around his head watching them walk in. Danzo, what do you want? Danzo frowned at the man and looked to the two Kiri ninja. I heard the rumors but didn't think them true. Hokag sama, you allowed a missing ninja and his tool to enter our village. Narut narrowed his eyes under his hood as Zabuza glared at the man. And just who the [ __ ] are you, bandage boy? Zabuza growled out. Mimochisan, leave this to me, Danzo, you have no right to be in my office while I am not here. Also, if I find out that you have risen even a paperclip against Mimochisan and his daughter, I will have you arrested and tried for going against those under the Hokag's protection and the Hitaki's protection. Danzo glared at the man and turned his eye to the girl. She must be the ice user that the rumors have been talking about from your exploits. Zabuzaan, that's Mimochi to you, you old goat. Zabuza snarled to the man. Danzo, leave my office now or you will be forcefully removed. The man nodded and limped out of the room, slamming the door behind him. My apologies, Mimochisan. Danzo is a bit of a loose cannon on the Elder Council. No doubt he is heading for the council chambers to alert the council of your appearance and that of your daughter's bloodline. She's not technically my daughter. I haven't Dash. I took the liberty of drawing up some adoption papers in my wait for you all to return. I hope you don't mind an old man's planning. Zabuza smirked and chuckled as the old man laid out a few papers. All they require is your signature. Hakuchans, a witness's signature and my seal to make it official, but we will handle those after I hear about Wave. Zabuza nodded as Kakashi and Durro stepped forward. I will hear from you first, Kakashi. Before I move on to Zabuza and then hear Durro<unk>'s assessment of your leadership qualities, Kakashi nodded. We departed from Kohaa 2 hours after receiving the mission. Naruto took point. Sasuke took to Tzuna's left side and Sakura the right while Dakuro and I took up the rear. A few hours passed and nothing happened until we came across the demon brothers using the disguise of twin puddles. Nar noticed the attempt of a surprise attack and looked to me for confirmation. I simply nodded, showing that I noticed and we continued on. As we passed the puddle, Nar dropped an explosive tag on the ground. Once everyone had gotten a good distance from the puddles, the demon brother began their attack only to fail as Naruto activated the tag the moment one of them was thrown at us. Their chain was shattered and the tossed one was knocked unconscious by me. The second twin that was caught in the explosion had burrowed underground and tried a second attempt at Tzuna's life. Narudo stepped in just in time using his sword to keep the ninja's claw from scratching them as the claws had poison coating. I chopped the man on the neck and called for Kohaa and Buu to take them in. We questioned Tzuna about the attack and he admitted that the reason he had lied to us about the dangers was because he was afraid we would turn him away for not being able to pay for anything higher than a C-ranked mission. After a team discussion, Tiurro included, we all agreed on continuing the mission. I left a scroll with a note about the continuation, but I'm guessing someone must have lost it or something as we had requested backup. The hokag frowned and nodded for the man to continue. A few days later, we arrived in wave country and were attacked by Zabuza Mamochi and Remis Kakara. I took on Zabuza while Dakiro took on and killed Remis. The fight progressed slowly at first with Zabuza using the hidden misjutsu to perform his silent killing technique. During the fight, Zabuza managed to capture me in a water prison and sent a water clone to take care of Tzuna. Using Naruto's on the spot thinking, Tzuna was taken away from the battlefield and Naruto attempted and succeeded in rescuing me from Zabuza with a cleaver use of his hidden gauntlet blades and use of shadow clones. I ordered Nar to return to Tzuna and bring him back as I felt signature coming towards me. I fought Zabuza to the point where I was about to kill him when Haku managed to save him by faking his death with Sunbond to the neck. We retreated to Tzuna's house for the night. The next day, I called for a team meeting and announced that Zabuza was alive. Diuro and I began to train them for an entire week before we got a tip off that Zabuza would be attacking at the end of the week as I had asked my brother to spy on Naruto since he was showing up late for dinner the entire week. Haku and Narut looked away from the old man and Zabuza as Kakashi continued. The day before Zabuza attacked, Dakuro and I agreed on the plan that he, Sasuke, and Sakura would escort Duna to the bridge while Narudo and I would stay at the client's house and protect his family. Our plan hit dead on as Gatu had sent a pair of his men to take hostage. I entered the house just in time to see Nar about to rush off towards the bridge. We learned that Gatu had planned to betray Zabuza, and Nar rushed off to try to stop the now needless fighting. I stayed at the house, ridding the dead bodies from the house. I then returned to patrol the forest when three Naruto and Tazuna showed up from the direction of the bridge and explained that Gatu had appeared at the bridge. I rushed off to join my team and made it just in time to slow the advance of eight razor wolves of Waves Legends. Naruto managed to kill a majority of them while Zabuza, Durro, Sasuke, Sakura, and I protected Haku's fatally injured body, courtesy of Diurro's white-handed knife. We killed the wolves off, and Gatu ordered his men to kill us. However, a third, or rather fourth, party had entered the fight. A single man appeared in a bolt of lightning, calling himself the magic emperor. He's unhumanly strong. He used jutzu that not even the show and Naidame Hokagages have seen or even Orochimaru. He killed Gatu's entire band and the businessman himself with a single fire jutzu. The man's killed must have been at least 31 with that one jutzu. After he literally burned Gatu and his men to ash, he turned to us and started to walk towards Haku. Not knowing his intentions, Nar got into the man's path where the magic emperor threatened to move Narut by force. Zabuza asked the man his interest in her and the man simply replied that he has a mission that deals with. I believe it was five or six people and Haku happened to be one of them. He approached Haku and told her that the white dragon has blessed her with his power. This confused us all but confused us even more when he called Narut to him and asked for a scroll Naruto had in his possession. It seems that Nar had met this man in a dream or something because Nar remembered meeting the man there. wherever it was. Narudo took out the scroll the man asked for and the man prayed, I guess would be the right word to something called the blue dragon of Althena. He asked for its aid and the scroll glowed blue and the aura formed a dragon's head that spoke to him. It talked about being forgiven for crimes against the dragon's kin and that he could use its power to heal Haku. However, the dragon also gave him a warning. He said that should their chosen dragon master Naruto or any of the chosen five die, then all will be lost with the fourth rebirth of someone called Zofhur. The Hokag's eyes started to go wide, but the man recovered quickly. As soon as the dragon finished and the aura faded, the magic emperor picked up a small blue crest in the shape of a blue dragon. He then used a very, very powerful medical jutzu on Haku that completely healed her, not even leaving a scar where her wound was. As soon as the man was finished with the healing, the crest broke and he vanished in a purple light. Once everyone had recovered from the ordeal, it was decided that Zabuza and Haku would come back with us to seek citizenship and to join our ranks. We spent the last week in wave recovering from the battle, helping Tzuna with his bridge and Zabuza and Durro attacked Gatu's main warehouse, looting all of the dead businessmen's money, land deeds, and such, giving a hefty sum back to the people of Wave while we took the payment for an A-ranked mission. Once the week had ended, we traveled for 2 days to return here. The Hokag nodded, a gloss to Nar going unnoticed. I thought I had stopped all this dragon master nonsense 6 years ago since the council thought it to be a threat against our village. Very well, Kakashi. Turro, I would like a report on the happenings on the bridge the day of the attack. Please nodded. When we arrived at the bridge, we were met by seven water clones of Zabuza. I had told Zabuza we had an offer for them. I ordered Sasuke to take out the clone and Zabuza and Haku appeared before us. I offered them the chance to join Kanoha but was rejected by Zabuza thinking it was a loaded offer. I battled Zabuza while Sasuke fought Haku and Sakura protected Tzuna. I fought Zabuza and managed to trap him using the Earth Style. Fang pursued Jutzu that Kakashi and I learned from our summoning contract with the dogs. I gave him one last chance for any last requests and told him that my offer still stands. He remained silent, and I attacked him with my white-handed knife, only to stab Haku in the chest. As she had jumped in the way, Narut pushed me out of the way and caught the girl as she fell forward. He started going on about her not listening to him about Gatu when Zabuza tackled him out of the way of two arrows that would have killed them both. Haku collapsed to the ground onto her back. And we all spotted Gatu with a group of at least 30, if not more, hired thugs. Gatu walked up to Haku as he taunted Zabuza, then confirmed what Naruto had spoke of when he first faced off with Haku. He kicked Haku in the ribs and walked back to his men, telling one to do something. Moments later, we watched as a large shipping crate that Gatu used as a cage for those wolves was lowered onto the bridge by a crane. Gatu released the wolves and Zabuza and I fought with them first. Narut, Sasuke, and Sakura then joined and followed by Kakashi. Everything else happened just as Kakashi had said. I see, Zabuza. Anything you wish to add? Zabuza nodded. I'm not sure if it matters, but I know of the kid's burden. Haku told me when she returned from her final meeting with the brat. Sasuke and Sakura looked to Nar with raised brows, knowing about the meetings as he had admitted to them. What burden is he talking about? Nar Sakura asked and the blonde suddenly bolted from the room through the window. Nar? The hokag called out as he watched the boy jump through the open window, catching a glimpse of the sheathed sword at the boy's waist. Damn. So, he's taken it up after all. Minato, forgive me for what I've done. Skull, go and find Nar. I will handle things here. The hidden U came out of the shadows and Zabuza looked between him and Durro. Dude, his mask looks just like your chakra mask. Duro scratched the back of his head with an eye smile. Well, he is the one I based it off of. Skull nodded and vanished from the room in a swirl of wind. The Hokag turned to Kakashi and Durro. Kakashi, Durro, I have approved your request for Durro<unk>'s appointment to cosensei of team 7. As such, here is your first decision. Do you believe Sakura Haruno and Sasuke Aiha are mature enough to learn of Naruto's burden? The Hitaki brothers looked to each other before looking back to the Hokag. >> Veto Hokag sama. The two replied together and Kakashi continued. Sasuke and Sakura have grown up and out of their weaknesses during our time in Wave. Sakura is no longer acting like a full-blown fan girl and Sasuke now understands that there is no taking without giving. The three of them combined have overcome their differences that once kept them apart and now they work as a team should. I agree with Nien. Sasuke has developed very well in learning everything without the sharing which he has awakened. He has yet to actually use his shaing but he has not let it go to his head like a majority of the Aiha clan had. Sakura is more respecting of Narut and Sasuke and has even grown in strength. The Hokag nodded and turned to the two jennine. With the faith of your sensei, what I'm about to tell must never be uttered to another living being unless you are given permission by Nar or myself. If you break this law, then you will be executed, no matter the clan you are a part of and no matter what the council says. Do you understand? If you don't, then leave this office now and put it to the back of your mind. This goes for the two of you as well, Mimochisan. Sasuke and Sakura looked to each other and nodded. We want to know. Sartoi nodded and looked to Haku and Zabuza. We both know about it, but I'd like the whole story if you don't mind. Zabuza told the old man, and Haku agreed. Very well, then allow me to begin. Naruto looked down at the village from his spot on the Hokag monument standing in between the show and night Hokag. Hello Galen. The Au walked up to the boy and looked out to the village. Something wrongan and please call me skull when my mask is on. Nar continued gazing down at the village. My team is most likely learning of Q.B right now. I don't want to be around when they do. Skull nodded. But that's not all, is it? Narut narrowed his eyes through his hood. You feel betrayed that she told Zabuza, don't you? I know the reason behind her telling him, but I can't help but feel betrayed like Dash. She should have asked before she told. Narut nodded to the U. Yeah, you were enemies then, Uzu Makisan. Now you have the possibility of becoming allies. She had a duty to Zabuza before they decided to come here. I know. I'll just have to get over it. Skull nodded. So, have you went to meet Ya yet? Nar blushed under his hood. No, I just returned and haven't had the chance to check in with her yet. I suggest you check in with her today. You do not want to keep her waiting. I know. She told me to check in the moment I finished reporting to the Hokag about my mission. Skull nodded. Then I suggest you go now. The Hokag only asked me to find you. Narut nodded and felt the man's hand on his shoulder before the world blurred before his eyes. He found himself outside the diamond leaf and shook his head as he walked up to the door. The bouncer looked to the hood kid. Little young for this joint kid. Nar removed his hood and showed his headband. The man instantly bowed. My apologies, Narutan. Ayasama is expecting you in the back room. Nar nodded and walked into the club. He headed for the bar counter and the bartender looked at him. Can I help you? I need a firebomb. The bartender nodded and opened counter door, letting Nar into the back. The firebombs are on the same shelf they were last time. Nar nodded and walked to the back room. He walked up to a very neat and clean shelf before looking around the room. Seeing no one, he bit his thumb, drawing blood, and wiped it on the cap of one of the bottles. The shelf shook and swung open, closing the moment Nar entered the room, he found a sitting at a desk, drinking a cup of tea. "Good, you showed up." Nar nodded as the woman nodded to the seat across from her. "Sit down. We have much to talk about." Nar took a seat and the woman looked to him with a smirk. So, was my information correct? Nar nodded. Yes, it was. I guess that means you win the bet. I smirked and nodded. Information is power, my new student, as you have learned firsthand. The woman turned to him in her chair. Now, I hear that there are two new arrivals to Kohaa. I knew the moment they arrived. I knew your destination and I know of your exploits in wave during your mission. Your information network runs deep, it seems. I nodded. It runs all the way into the deepest, darkest corners of the underground. I have informants, weapon traders, fishermen, you name them, I have them under my employment. They're all waiting for my orders. Even the boatman that took you into wave. Nar nodded in understanding. So, he's the one that informed you of everything. I nodded. Of course, his job is to inform me of everything that happens in Wave once a week by message. However, imagine my surprise when I was awakened late last night to receive a complete report of Wave's new heroes. I have placed her cup down. You've done well using my information to your advantage. What little you probably had to use anyway. Starting tomorrow, you are to come meet with me once a month. Each month you will be given a new task, one that I expect you to complete before the months end, unless I say otherwise and report to me. For this month, I want you to be able to use these two jutzu by our next meeting. I removed two scrolls from the sleeve of her kimono. Once you have done exactly that to these two, I will give you your next lesson. You have one month. I will send you a letter when you are to visit me again." Naruto nodded and took the two scrolls, looking to them with a raised brow when he read them. Would jutzu? The woman smirked and nodded. Let's just say I know where you live now, too. I also took the liberty of making it liveable. Nar sighed and nodded. I'll see you in a month, sensei. Nar started to walk away towards the door, only to stop when a smirked and called to him. Aren't you going to say hello to Lakus? She's just in the training room. Naruto froze before his hand reached the door knob and blushed heavily at the memories assaulting him. Ehooka Narudo opened the door and bolted out of the room, shutting the door behind him with a slam. Ya laughed at the sight and shook her head. Mom, I'm done with my jutzu. Ya smiled and looked over her shoulder as a teenage girl walked into the room from the back. Very good. I'll come see it now. She took a final drink of her tea and pressed a button hidden on the desk. A lock clicked from the door Naruto left out of and the woman stood following the child to the back room. Ex. So, you mean all this time our parents have been dash? Yes. I'm sorry to say I failed in stopping anything major before it went to far. The council had seized control before my reappoint as Hokag, and I now have less power than I used to. I am working on trying to get it back. However, Saruto told the Haruno girl. But how could Nar be a demon? I mean, Durro Sensei taught us some minor ceiling and Narut becoming the demon that was sealed into him just doesn't make sense. Sakura saw the old man nodded. The villagers were and still are filled with so much hate for the fox that the moment it was found out, he housed it. The village called for his death. I have executed many civilians and ninja for attacking Nar as he grew up. Then that's why my father was always angry when he returned home from a council meeting. He always talked about not getting his way with the demon. You are correct, Sasuke. Your father and Danzo would always demand that Nar be put into the U training program so that he may become a weapon for the village. A majority of the council have agreed to this. Even your mother, Sakura. Needless to say, there are those on the council that knew the difference between a scroll and the kunai sealed inside, and they are the ones whose votes counted the most when it came to such matters. Hokag sama. Skull appeared in the room from the shadows. Did you find him? Skull nodded. Yes, sir. He was thinking at top the Hokag monument. He just wanted to be alone. The old man nodded with a sigh. Zabuza snapped his fingers. Wait, I remember that emperor guy calling Naruto Lamina when he was using the Q.B's chakra. The Hokag's eyes widened. Did Nar hear that name? The group looked to one another and shrugged. Don't know. Apparently, Q.Bi was in full control since Narut was throwing fire jutzus all over the place that not even I or you could have seen before. Hokag sama. The Hokag side. Good. Then the runes and seals are holding strong. the man muttered and looked to the group. I'm afraid I cannot allow any of you to repeat that name. Nar is to never learn of the Q.B's real name. I have my reasons, so please do not ask. The group nodded confusingly as Skull glared at the old man through his mask. Now, since everything has been explained, why don't I get this over with and allow the two of you to fill out the paperwork for joining us? Kakashi looked to the old man. Aren't you supposed to bring this up in a council meeting, Hokag Sama? The old man smirked. I am Kakashi. You are correct. However, I want to be absolutely sure that they cannot manipulate them in any possible way. Like Haku, for example, I know for a fact that the elders and the civilian council members will try to activate the clan restoration act on her because of the ice bloodline she is running through her veins. If everything you told me in your report is true, Zabuza growled. No way is my daughter being used as a breeding machine. The Hokag nodded as Sasuke rose a hand. The Hokag looked to him and nodded. Does that mean they plan the same for me too? The Hokag frowned and nodded. Unfortunately, yes. The child hung his head. Now, Zabuza Haku, I'll need you both to fill out these forms exactly as I say. All right. The two ninja nodded as the Hokag pulled the forms out of his desk. The Hokag handed them the forms and looked to Haku. For now, you'll both fill them out as you normally would. However, you Haku will put down wind and water for your elemental affinities and nothing for bloodline. Zabuza, you will fill your form out normally, and once you're done, let me see them. I will tell you to make any changes that I see fit. I will not let the council attempt to manipulate my ninja anymore. I take it something happened, Hokag Sama. Kakashi asked the man and he nodded. The council sent Char on a suicide mission without my approval and he returned missing his left arm and left eye. It seems someone has something the council wants. The two Konoha Jonan and the one Abu nodded with narrowed eyes. Skull looked to the Hokag. Permission to use that jutzu on Char Hokag sama. The Hokag looked to him and nodded. He is in the hospital right now being treated for his wounds. The doctors have his arm sealed into a scroll for now. Skull nodded and vanished from the room. What jutzu is he using? Haku asked the old man. It is a jutzu that will allow full use of a severed limb, but it has been labeled as a kin jutzu due to the pain the patient will go through. While he won't be able to use his left eye anymore, he'll regain the use of his arm. Haku nodded and handed the old man her form with Zabuza. The old man took a few minutes to review each form and nodded with a smirk. It seems you know your loopholes, Mimochi Sanan. Zabuza smirked under his bandages. A ninja always looks for loopholes. The Hokag nodded and looked to the two. I will allow the two of you to stay the night at one of the local hotels for the night on me. Kakashi Durro, your other request was approved and is currently waiting for your inspection. I will personally come to assist in your inspection. I have a few things that I would like to add if it will be all right. Also, should any of you be called to a council meeting regarding Hakuchan's bloodline, please do not say anything about it being true. The two Jonan nodded as Sasuke and Sakura looked to them. You are all dismissed. Raven, please escort Sabuza and Haku Mammochi to the shining leaf in please. An U walked into the room from the balcony door. Kakashi and Akiro turned to Sasuke and Sakura with eye smiles. Sasuke, Sakura, be sure to pack everything you have at home. I will meet you all at our normal training grounds first thing in the morning at HR. I won't be late and I'll explain more on why I want you to do this once we meet in the morning. Kakashi gave the two and I smile as he and his brother left the office via Shanshin. Nar arrived at his giant admittin home and spotted a note on the door. He took the note and read it. Nar took the pleasure of setting your house up with running water and electricity as well as adding some furniture. Bit big for a single person though, isn't it? I am Juen. Nar watched as the note burned itself and he opened the door. Walking in, he saw the living room the moment he entered the massive house. It was furnished with black leather couches and chairs, mahogany coffee table and side tables and a few lamps. There was another note sitting on the coffee table and Naruto walked over and picked it up. Instruction on all the seals that she added to the house. I'll have to read this. He created three clones and looked to them. Search the house and learn the layout. Dispel once you're done. The clones nodded and walked off into the house. Nar walked back out of the house and looked around, sighing in content of the peace and quiet. He walked towards the forest and stopped just at the edge before summoning a hundred more clones. He pulled out the two scrolls he got from Ya and handed them to two different clones. Split yourselves up evenly and start on that jutzu. The clones nodded and started to get to work. Nar walked back to his home and to the kitchen. Sakura, you're home. I didn't see you here last night. A pink-haired woman called as she entered the living room from the kitchen to see her daughter coming down the stairs with a large duffel bag. The teen looked at her mother with a glare before heading for the door. How was wave, dear? None of your business, Baka. Sakura placed a hand on the door and looked to her mother again. I can't believe I actually listened to you about Narut. The woman narrowed her eyes and crossed her arms. Oh, him. I see. I should have a talk with the Hokag about getting you on a different team. He must be brain dash. Shut up. Sakura slammed a fist into the wall, causing a massive hole in the wall. You don't even know the first thing about him. But now I understand everything you tried to do. It's amazing what you and father know what this village has stooped to. To place the blame of a canai on the scroll it sealed in. Why didn't you just throw me into U as well? The woman pald with fear. H, how do you know all this? The hokag told me everything about what you tried to do to Nar until you can see the person he actually is. I'm through calling you a mother. I can't believe you would actually agree to creating a lifeless human weapon out of a child. Sakura opened the door and left the house, slamming the door as she went and causing several pictures and paintings to fall. Sasuke stood before the two graves of his mother and father that had been made the weekend after Itachi murdered everyone but him. The boy was currently glaring at his father's headstone. "No wonder Itachi went berserk," Sasuke muttered to the stone. "It was all because of you. You were turning Itachi into a weapon for your own use, weren't you, father? That was the reason I almost never saw him after I became a student. You were training him, driving him into the ground with missions, trying to break him to be a mindless puppet. Sasuke took something out of his pocket and placed it on the stone. You even tried to have a child, not even old enough to know what a canai was, trained to become another mindless puppet for this village. Or was it also for you, so you could have two weapons to use against whoever you thought of as an enemy? Sasuke took his hand away and looked to the sky. You don't deserve the name Aiha or the title of clan head. Sasuke picked up his bag and secured it to his back. I have lost all respect for you, Fagaku. Aiha. Sasuke spit on the man's grave and turned to his mother's. I wonder did Itachi actually kill you mother or did something else happen? Sasuke bowed to the grave and started to walk away towards his clan compound gates. Boom. The tag on the grave of Fagaku Aiha caught fire before exploding, destroying the said man's gravestone while never touching the other headstone. From heaven, a woman smiled sadly as she watched the explosion with tears running down her face. I'm proud of you, Sasuke. Sasuke froze in step and looked around the compound before his eyes landed on the grave of his mother and spotted a white bird standing on the grave. The bird spread its wings and took to the sky. Only a dove. Must have been the wind. Sasuke shook his head and continued on towards his team training grounds. "All right, give it a rest. I'm coming." Narut shouted as he walked down the steps of his home and to the front door. He opened the door and met with a skull-faced Uu. Can I help you? Kakashi and Duro have asked me to retrieve you. You're an hour late. Nar shrugged and allowed the man entry. Also, they've asked me to tell you to pack all your things, such as clothes, weapons, anything you would have in a house besides furniture. Naruto raised a brow and nodded to the man before summoning three clones. You go make breakfast while you two go pack." The clones nodded and took off for the ordered areas while Narut walked to the living room. Skull followed the boy into the large room and watched Nar take out a scroll and start to read. You seem to be putting your clones to work now that you've gotten the hang of it. Nar nodded. What jutzu is that? Nar looked up from the scroll. It's actually a scroll on elemental manipulation. I'm studying up on water manipulation. Skull nodded and took a seat. So, how did you find me? Skull chuckled. I have my ways, Uzuakisan. Narut rolled his eyes and returned to the scroll. 10 minutes passed when the clone from the kitchen came in and placed a tray of eggs, bacon, hash browns, and toast in front of Narut with a glass of milk. The boy handed the scroll over to the clone. Continue studying. The clone nodded and walked off into the house. Nar proceeded to eat his meal while Skull chuckled. You know, Kakashi is waiting for you right now. Nar shrugged. He'll know what it's like to wait on someone then. Skull shook his head as Narut took a drink of his milk. I have a question for you, Galen. The man nodded. That jutzu you've been using to take me to different places. What exactly is it called? And can you teach it to me? Skull held his chin in thought. I suppose I could teach you the shin. No rules against it, even though people are usually tuning when they learn it. Create 10 clones for me, and I'll have one of my own teach them. Naruto nodded and created the asked for clones and one more to take his finished meal to the kitchen and clean the dishes. Galen created a shadow clone himself and sent the group of clones to the forest while Nar waited for his clones to finish packing. Here you go, boss. Nar looked to the stairs and caught a scroll that was flying at him. He placed the scroll in his cloak pocket and sent the two clones to help out in the kitchen with orders to dispel once they were done. Nar stood to his feet and looked to the umbu. Well, let's go. Nar felt the man's hand on his shoulder before the world blurred before him. Where's Narut at? Sakura asked as she tapped her foot. Sasuke shrugged his shoulders while Kakashi and Durro sighed. Here, everyone jumped at the sudden voice only to relax when Narut walked out from the woods. So, what's the occasion? Kakashi? I smiled. Everyone starting today, team 7 is going to be the team it should have been before we went to wave. Takuro has come up with the idea that if we want this team to work as one should then we need to become more than just comrades. We need to become family. So we are all going to be living under one roof. Takuro nodded with the same eye smile while the three jennon looked to the two surprised. And I just managed to get out of the village too. Nar grumbled in his mind. Look at the bright side. You won't be left in the dust again. Nar rolled his eyes at the fox within him. So, you mean we'll be living in the same house? Sakura asked, and the two nodded. Exactly. You see, we think this will help you not only learn to work together more, but also to bond as friends should. The Hokag has approved of this and has set up a house and training compound for us to use in the abandoned sector of Kohaa. Since no one lives in that area anymore, the Hokag has sealed it off as our training ground and our new home. The three nodded. Well, if any of you have any objections, then please make them known. Sasuke rose his hand. Yeah, what about our homes? I mean, will we be allowed to go back to them? Kakashi nodded. Of course, you will be allowed to return to your homes once a month to check up on them to make sure everything is still where you left it. Sasuke nodded and the Jonan looked to each other. Well, I think that's everything. Let's go check in to our new home. Kakashi walked up to Narudo and placed a hand on his shoulder while Duro placed a hand on both Sasuke and Sakura. Two swirl of leaves and the five vanished from the training grounds. The group appeared before a large house and three other people that Kakashi and Akuro didn't expect to see today. Oh, hoy hokag sama sabusa haku. Is there something we can help you with? The hokag smiled to the group and nodded. Ah, just the team we've been waiting for. Kakashi rose a brow as Haku walked up to the team with a leaf headband around her forehead. Kakashi, I met with the council last night and we now have a jennon with no team. Seeing as all the teams were filled, I managed to talk the council into allowing your team to become a fourgenine squad. Diurro Kakashi, meet your new student, Hakumoi. The two Jonin look to each other for a minute before looking to the Hokag. You are sure about this Hokag sama. They might be rejected from the tunin exams if you allow this. The Hokag took a drag from his pipe with a smile. I will deal with it once the time comes. Kakashi. Now while Haku will be moving into this compound with the team, Zabuza doesn't have a place to go. So I am asking if he may stay here and take up a possible cosensei position like Durro has. Kakashi and Duro look to each other. While I have no problem with Zabuza living with us, it'll seem a little unfair to the other teams. Hokag sama. It already is with me teaching along with Nissan. The Hokag nodded. However, he does understand Haku's abilities more than we do. So maybe I can pass my title to him and allow him to teach with Kakashi instead of me. You are sure, Durro? The man nodded. Yes, sir. Teaching is more Araka's thing than mine anyway. Besides, just because I won't be teaching them doesn't mean I can't help out every now and then. The old man nodded and looked to Zabuza. Well, Zabuza, what do you say? The swordsman smirked under his wrappings. Depends. Do I get to teach them what I want to? The old man nodded. Then you have a deal, old man. The Hokag chuckled and nodded. Very well, Kakashi, Diurro. Please get everyone settled in and show them around the house and your team's training sector. I have a meeting with all the U Jonin and Chunin in half an hour about this place that I need to make perfectly clear to them. You three are free from that meeting, however, as you will all know the rules by the end of the day. Everyone nodded and the hokag vanished. Kakashi and Akiro walked up to the doors of the house and turned to the team. All right, everyone, follow us. Everyone followed the two into the house. All right, everyone. To the left of you is the living room and to the right is the dining room. In front of you, you have the stairs to the upstairs where the bedrooms are along with the hall that has two restrooms and also entrances to the kitchen and library. Narut, Sasuke, and Sakura. Your rooms have already been picked out for you, while Zabuza can take room and Haku can bunk with Sakura. There is a bathroom with shower and bathtub in between your rooms, just as there is one between mine and Zabuza's. There is also a staircase that goes to the roof where there isn't truly anything yet. Don't really know what to put up there. Anyway, moving on. Kakashi led the group into the dining room and then into the kitchen. Next, we have the kitchen. As you can see, there is a door leading outside and another door which leads to the basement. Kakashi led the group into the next room which was filled with scrolls and books. This is the library. You can find whatever scrolls that the Hokag has approved for you to learn in here. And through there is the living room. Kakashi pointed over his shoulder at the archway that led into the living room. Now, let's tackle the second floor and move on to the basement. Everyone followed Kakashi back to the stairs and up to the second floor. All right, Naruto, Sasuke, your room is the first on the left. Haku and Sakura, your room is the next one down. Zabuza and I will be right across the hall from you. Both rooms should have two beds each. Now, as I said before, there is a bathroom in between your bedrooms. So, both rooms are connected to one bathroom, so you'll have to share. The same goes for us, Zabuza. Now, there are two more bathrooms, both no showers or baths that can be found on this floor. There is one next to the stairs on the left side and one at the end of the hall next to Zabuza's room. There are also two on the ground floor in the hallway that divides the house and a locker room in the basement, but I'll get more into that once we check out the basement. For now, everyone go to your rooms and unpack. Everyone nodded and went to their rooms with Duro showing Zabuza in so he could collect his things. Naruto walked into his and Sasuke's room and found it to be fairly large, enough for two more people to live with them. The room had two closets and two dressers, each near one of the beds and four nightstands, one on each side of both beds. Naruto looked to Sasuke and saw the boy choosing the bed nearest to the door. Nar walked over to the other bed and placed a scroll onto the bed before summoning a clone. Unseal and put everything away in that dresser. Nar pointed to the dresser against the wall nearest to his bed. Leave the weapons and scrolls. Clothes only. The clone nodded and started to put things away while Nar started to leave the room when a hand on his shoulder stopped him. We know and we don't care, Nar. Narut looked over his shoulder at Sasuke as a door opened and Sakura and Haku walked into the room from the attached bathroom. "We learned about everything from the Hokage. We don't hate you." Narudo stood there for a moment, looking at each of their faces before he nodded and walked out of the room, leaving the two girls and Sasuke alone. "Narkun." Haku's hand clenched around the scroll she was carrying. And she looked to the clone. Hey Sasuke, our rooms are roughly the same size. The bathroom is pretty big, too. Sasuke looked to the girl and walked over to the bathroom. Taking a look inside, he found the bathroom to be larger than a normal bathroom. Not bad. Looks like a clan's house now that I start to think about it. Haku walked back up to the two and smiled slightly. Shall we finish unpacking, Sakura? The short-haired girl nodded and led the girl back to their room while Sasuke walked over to his bag and started to pull things out before pausing as he pulled out a Aiha shirt. He gritted his teeth at the symbol as memories started to flow through his mind. The boy jumped when a hand landed on his shoulder. "You all right there, Sasuke? I've been calling your name for the past couple of minutes." Nar asked the boy, and the teen shook his head. "It's complicated. My father wanted to force you into the umbu at a young age to make you a weapon. When I got home yesterday, I took a look around the compound and checked Itachi's room. I found his diary and saw what my father had done to him to make him snap. Whenever I see the Aiha symbol now, I just get so angry at my father. Nar nodded as he dispelled his clone. Then remake the Aiha clan. Sasuke looked to Nar with a raised brow. Make a new clan symbol and a new clan name. Cut off all ties to that clan as best as you can. I know you can't change your blood, but you can still make a lot more changes. Besides, I always thought that fan made you a bit of a target. Sasuke looked to the fan and nodded. Yeah, it kind of does. Anyone who knows this fan will know I'm an Aiha. Nar nodded and turned to one of the windows. Then stop wearing it and wear something else. I know a place that sells some pretty good stuff. Same place I got this gear from. Sasuke looked at Naruto's outfit and nodded. I'd be glad to check this place out. Maybe someone that won't go head over heels for the Aiha. Narut nodded and turned for the door. Come on. Kakashi and Zabuza are waiting for us with the girls. Sasuke nodded and followed Narut out of the room. Kakashi closed his book with an eye smile. All right, everyone, to the basement. I will warn you now to please listen to everything I say. I don't want you to hurt yourselves with everything that the Hokag has prepared for us. The team nodded and followed the man down the stairs and into the kitchen where they started down to the basement. Kakashi opened one final door before they entered into a locker room. All right, everyone. This is where we will be doing our physical training every morning. Well, not in this exact room, but you get the picture. This here is the locker room. After lunch today, we will all be heading out to buy some training clothes and gear. The locker room has showers, sinks, and stalls along with lockers for your training gear and spare clothes. Now, follow me. Kakashi led the group to a pair of doors and turned to them. Now, for this part, we'll need a volunteer. The four Jennon and two Jonan looked to one another before Sakura shrugged and walked forward. Kakashi, I smiled and opened the door. All right, Sakura, if you'll step into the room, please. Oh, and be sure to watch your step. Sakura nodded and walked into the room. Nothing happened. Now, there should be a seal next to the door. Channel some of your chakra into it, please. Sakura nodded and channeled a bit of chakra into the seal once she found it. Again, nothing happened. What was supposed to happen? Kakashi dash. Sakura suddenly fell face first onto the ground. This is the gravity room. The seal Sakura activated is very unique as it will only react to the person who has added chakra into the seal. This is going to help you train in speed, strength, stamina, and endurance. Now, Zabuza, come with me and we'll help Sakura to her feet. Kakashi walked into the room like nothing was wrong. While Zabuza cautiously stepped into the room, he walked over to Sakura and together the two men began to lift her up. Holy hell, Kakashi. It's like trying to lift a pile of those concrete bags all at once. Kakashi chuckled a bit. Yeah. Now, let's bring Sakura over to the door and get her out of the room. Zabuza nodded and the two proceeded to drag the girl out of the room. The other good thing about this seal is that it deactivates once the person that activated it exits the room. You can also deactivate it by pressing chakra into the seals that are on the door or on the wall. Everyone can use them even if one person has already activated the seals. Just add your chakra and it'll take effect. Kakashi and Zabuza managed to finally get the girl out of the room. Kakashi sensei. Sakura looked to the man. Yes, Sakura. I hate you. Kakashi chuckled with an eye smile while he checked the girl over. Well, you look fine besides a few scratches. Kakashi stood to his feet and I smiled to the team. All right, everyone. On to the last room of the house. Kakashi led the group back to the second floor and then to the roof. This is the roof. We haven't really decided what to put up here, but we thought that maybe the four of you would like to make something of it. After all, it is a large house, so if you have something you would like to add onto the house, let me and Zabuza know, and we'll discuss it with you all and the Hokag. The group nodded as Durro. I smiled to everyone. Well, I need to head out. I'll come by and visit every once in a while. See you. Takuro vanished from the rooftop. And Kakashi motioned for everyone to follow him. Come on, everyone. Time for some lunch. Kakashi led the group back to the kitchen where a clone of him was found placing a tray of sandwiches on the dining room table. Everyone took a seat at the table, Kakashi at the head. All right, everyone. Who has questions? Sakura rose her hand. Go ahead, Sakura. Besides the four bedrooms and the two bathrooms you pointed out, are the other three rooms for guests? Kakashi nodded. Yes, they are. You see, this mansion used to be a clan home, but when the QB attacked, it destroyed a good portion of the house and compound along with the district. When Durro came up with this idea, I thought that this mansion could be useful along with the abandoned sector since literally no one lives here anymore. However, the Hokag had to rebuild the entire mansion. So, he decided to add the rooms. He even added seals for electricity, water, and gas. The group nodded. Minutes passed and everyone had eaten at least two sandwiches by the time Kakashi stood to his feet with an eye smile. All right, everyone. Time to check out the training sector. Everyone stood and followed Kakashi out of the house and out of a pair of gates. Kakashi turned to everyone once they left the mansion's yard and gave a serious stare. I won't lie to you. Our training ground is massive. We have an entire sector of Kenoha as our playground. However, there are several rules that must be obeyed while we are training here. Rule number one, no one from outside the team is allowed in the training area. The training that Zabuza and I will end up putting you through has the probability of injuries that will need to be treated at the hospital. The buildings and rubble that was left after the QB attack still stands and will be used in combat training. As such, we do not want anyone to come onto this training ground while training is taking place. Um are not even allowed to patrol inside this area anymore unless authorized by the Hokag. Rule two, always observe your surroundings. I say this because if we set traps during our training and forget about them, then someone might end up hurt or worse. Always remember where you set your traps and be mindful of the possible traps your enemy has set. Jen jutzu can hide traps from you easily enough. Rule three, no training without a sensei present. This is to prevent you from getting injured. If you come out here alone and a weak building collapses on you before you get out of the area, then we can't help you unless we're there. Rule four, no live tags. We don't want to level the training ground to complete rubble. This sector will help you in combat, stealth, and support training. We want to have as many places to have as cover, hiding places, and trap setups as possible. Now, I think that's all of the rules. Everyone, you have half an hour to learn as much about this sector as you can. Try not to destroy anything. If you are not back in half an hour, then I will hunt you down and have you run laps in the gravity room after we return from getting our gear. This means you two, Zabuza, go. Kakashi smiled and turned to smoke, making Narut shake his head. Shadow clone. No wonder he didn't eat. Naruto made his cross-shaped seal. Shadow clone jutzu. 20. Naruto stood in the clearing and the team looked to him. Split up and learned the layout of the training grounds. Go. The clones took off into the ruins of the training grounds while Nar just took a seat next to the gate. Zabuza crossed his arms and looked at the kid. You're becoming lazy with that clone jutzu of yours. Gaki. Naruto looked up to the man before looking to the sky. Say what you want. I'm just making it easier on me. Zabuza shook his head and vanished with pure speed. Haku, Sakura, and Sasuke took off in various directions to scout the place out. You know he's right. You've been relying on the shadow clones to do all your work. Naruto looked to his left to see Kakashi leaning against the gate. Your point. Kakashi sighed and closed his book. Narut, you've grown stronger. However, that strength only comes from the new jutzu you have been learning. From what I have seen, you haven't trained your body at all besides the basic workout from the academy. Using clones to learn tai jutzu and ken jutsu isn't going to make it easier to use for the real you. You may learn the katas, that is true, but you won't have the proper feel for them. Kakashi pushed off the wall of the gate. My point, Naruto, is that the shadow clone training method isn't effective as learning firsthand. Here's my suggestion. For ceiling and ninjutsu, have your shadow clones learn the jutzu, and then once they have it down, you try it yourself. Get the feel for it. For genutsu, have a clone cast the jutzu on you so that you can learn what it does and be able to counter it should it be turned back on you. For tai jutzu and kenjutsu, try sparing with your clones in one subject at a time. Elemental manipulation should be done in the same method as chakra control. Use your clones and then try it yourself once your clones have dispelled. Fine, I'll give it a shot. But what about smalltime chores like cooking? Kakashi? I smiled. Alternate between clone and you have a clone cook one meal and then you cook the next and so on. That's how I've gotten as strong as I have. And with your chakra stores, I wouldn't be surprised to see you surpass me. Narut nodded and looked back to the sky while Kakashi opened his book back up. The two waited for the half hour to pass and soon Zabuza landed right next to the gate at the same time Sasuke. Sakura and Haku arrived. Good. You're all back now. Time for the last task on our to-do list before we end for the day. Shopping. Everyone saw the shine in Sakura's eyes as Kakashi closed his book and started to walk away from the mansion. Follow me to the village, everyone. Everyone followed the man and Zabuza rushed to meet up with him. Kakashi, just how are Haku and I going to buy whatever it is we're getting? Kakashi just simply I smiled. All right, here we are everyone. Kakashi I smiled to the group as they came to a stop in front of a shop called the Blue Claw. This is where we will be getting our dash. I'm going to Tsukun's. Nar called over his shoulder as he started walking away. Kakashi frowned to the child. Why not shop with us, Naruto? Nar looked over his shoulder with a glare. This is the same shop we helped that gave me no pay while he praised the three of you for work that Sasuke, Sakura, and I did. What makes you think he's going to treat me fairly with equipment? Kakashi frowned as he thought back to the mission. He's right, and I did nothing. All right, Nar, why don't you show us the Tsukun's shop? Naruto nodded and continued walking towards the old man's shop. Another 15 minutes of walking and they all stood in front of a large abandoned warehouse. Um, Narut, are you dash? Sakura called out as Nar continued walking into the building. The others followed the pink-haired girl, and each of them were soon looking at a ninja shop. H, I wonder why the guy has his shop covered by a gen jutzu. Kakashi nodded and followed the teen into the shop. Hello there. The brown bun-haired girl at the counter called out as Narut entered the shop with his team shortly following. Is Tsukan? Nar asked, his face shadowed by his hood. Sorry, my dad's not here at the moment. Is there? Oh, hello Kakashi sensei. Tenten bowed to the man as he eyesi smiled to the girl just as Zabuza entered the shop. Tenten rose from her bow and screamed. Oh my god. Zabuza of the hidden mist is in my family shop. Everyone watched as the girl vanished and reappeared with a pen and notepad before the Jonan. Can I please have your autograph? Zabuza sama. Zabuza rose a brow and looked to Kakashi. Who's the brat? Kakashi scratched the back of his head as the man took Tenton's notepad and signed it. That would be one of my rival students. Tenten, why aren't you with your team today? Tenten held up her left hand. showing it was wrapped in a cast. I sprained my wrist during training. Kakashi sensei. Guy sensei let me have the time off until my hand healed. Kakashi nodded. I didn't know your dad ran a store. Tenten nodded. Yep. The best store in the entire village. Open to all that break the gen z jutzu surrounding it. Now, what can I help you all with? Well, 10en, this is my jen and team. Haku Mammochi, Sasuke Aiha, Sakura Haruno, and Narut Dash. Uzzuaki Tenten interrupted the man with a growl. She glared at the redc cloak teen as he looked through the clothing section. Narut Uzuaki, I'm going to clobber you for what you did to Niji. Nar looked over his shoulder with narrowed eyes. Who? Tenten started to stomp towards the boy. That's enough. Everyone turned to the door to see Tsukin walking into the shop. Hello Naruto. Good to see you again. What can I help you with? Nar nodded to Kakashi. Talk to Kakashi about it. The old man nodded and looked to the Jonan. So what do you need? Well, my team and I need some training clothes and gear. I was thinking some weighted sparing clothes. Say no more. 10. take the girls to the Kunowichi section and help them pick out the proper clothing. The pink one looks almost as bad as Narut did with his orange jumpsuit. Tenten nodded and led the two girls away. Sakura trying to keep her anger in check. As for the rest of you, take a look around and let me know if you need anything. Sukin pointed to the back of the clothing section. I have weighted sparing clothes and such near the back. I have chakra weights in the equipment section and I just got a new set of chakra cuffs that help with increasing chakra stores. Zabuza looked to Kakashi while Sasuke walked into the clothing section away from them. That might be a good idea to get for everyone. If we can increase the kids stores to the point that they can create shadow clones, we'll be able to teach them even more. Kakashi closed his eye in thought. Maybe, but I don't want them to rely on that method. I already explained the reason to Nar, so he wouldn't rely on it as much anymore. There is also the side effects that can sometimes be fatal mentally and physically. I can't use more than three clones for training or I'll end up getting knocked out. Zabuza nodded. I see. Then maybe that would be a bad idea, but the chakra cuffs still sound good. Kakashi nodded. Well, while the two of you figure things out, I'm going to go put the shipment away. If you have any questions, you can find me in the equipment area. Sukun walked away from the two as the two bounced ideas back and forth. What do you mean you told her the truth? Saruti rolled his eyes at the woman before him. Just what I meant, Moka. I told Sakura the actual truth of Narut Uzumaki's burden and what you tried to do to him. Moka growled at the man. How dare you tell her such lies? The Hokag narrowed his eyes to make her think that that thing is really human. That thing has no right to be wandering our streets freely. Hokag sama, it should have been placed with Danzo the moment you brought it before Dash. Enough. The Hokag jumped to his feet. You are as blind as the rest of the civilian council and my teammates. Ask yourself this, Harunosan. Would you consider your own daughter a demon if the Yandame had used her instead of Naruto? For the boy's entire life, he's had no one to call a real family. He's done nothing to the village since the ceiling. No one had died by his hands. The only thing that he has done is live, and that has become a crime. I told your daughter the exact truth of what happened the day of the ceiling. That makes no difference. If the Yandame had used my daughter, I would have been honored, Dash. And yet he used his own son. The hokag snapped at the woman. The two hidden U going wideeyed at the slip the Hokag had made when the woman gasped. I am possible. Minato wasn't. Kusha Uzuzuaki. The woman growled with venom in her voice. That that [ __ ] I knew it. I knew that [ __ ] had tricked Minadoku in somehow. She probably raped Dash. They were married by me and the witness if you wish to call for him. is Jeriah of the Sanin and Kohaa's master seal expert. Sarutoi growled at the woman. Kusha was six months pregnant with Narut when I married them. That's three exact months before Q.Bi attacked our village. That woman gave birth to a demon. That woman gave birth to the Q.Bi incarnate. Then you are calling Minato a demon or a demon lover? Sartobi asked the woman. I have had enough of this village's foolishness. I already bowed to you and the council once when it came to Naruto's well-being 6 years ago. I will not allow any of you to ruin his life again. Um, take her to Ibiki for breaking my law. Also, what you have heard of today shall not leave this room. If I find out this information has escaped this office in any way, I will personally execute you for treason. The U nodded as the two stepped out of the shadows, one wearing a cat mask and the other a tiger. Cat gave the woman a powerful chop to the neck, knocking the woman out. Let's<unk> get her out of here. Tiger nodded nervously at the cat Usu<unk>s action while the Hokag just looked to the pink-haired woman with disgust. Tell Iiki no restrictions. The woman nodded and grabbed her by the hair before the two U vanished in a swirl of leaves. Saratobi turned to the picture of the Yandame and sighed. I failed you time and again, Minato. I hope that if Kusha is alive that she returned to Kohha soon. Your son needs her more than ever. Sarobi shook his head and looked out the window. I need to take my power back. All right, everyone. Now that our shopping is done, you have the rest of the day off. Kakashi gave everyone an eye smile as they stood in the entrance hall of the house. If you wish to use the gravity room, let Zabuza or I know beforehand so we know where to find you. Be sure to put your training clothes in a locker downstairs. However, everyone, be sure to get to sleep early because starting tomorrow, we're all getting up at 5:00 in the morning to begin training. The four Jennon nodded while Zabuza smirked. And I'll be the one running the show first thing tomorrow. Haku, if you thought the physical training I put you through was rough, you're going to wish you were dead after this. Also, I suggest you all think of at least two weapons that you would like to start training in by this Saturday because we're going weapon shopping. Each of you will have at least one weapon that you find to enjoy. Kakashi nodded. Zabuza is right. Most ninja have something that they use other than Kai, Shuriken, and Senbon. It's important to have some type of weapon training should you wish to join U or Gain Jon in rank. Well, I think we've wasted enough of your time for today. You're all dismissed. Kakashi watched as the group started to walk away to do their own things when Narut spoke up. Kakashi Zabuza, if it's all right with you, I would like to put a garden on the roof. Kakashi looked to the child with a raised brow. You garden Nar? Nar nodded. Yes, it's one of the only things that kept me from breaking during my childhood, if you can even call it that. Anyway, for some reason, I happen to have a very, very green thumb. That says a lot since I started out not knowing a damn thing about it and still grew everything I planted perfectly. Kakashi nodded as Zabuza smirked under his mask. Sounds to me like you and Haku might have something in common. She's very good at gardening as well as medical jutzu. Though she only knows medicine right now. I've been trying to get some medical need jutzu scrolls but I can't seem dash. I'll let her burrow some of mine once I finish with them. I'm still training to learn the basics. Zabuza nodded. We<unk>ll discuss the garden in the morning. In the meantime, go have fun. Narut nodded and headed upstairs with a small scroll in his hands. Hey Nar, I think it's time for me to teach you how to use my chakra. Head to the roof and I'll start teaching you. Nar nodded to the fox and dropped his scroll of before heading to the roof. Chapter 5. Claiming the death scythe. Naruchan, you cheated. Wow. Naruchan, you can do that, too. We'll be friends forever. Nakuan, don't ever forget me. Nakuan, I'll be waiting for you, Nakuan. Naruto's eyes snapped open, and he bolted straight up in his bed. Cold sweat covered his body. He took a few deep breaths, trying to calm his body down, and looked to the clock on his right bedside nightstand. 4 in the morning. That girl's voice once again. Narut sighed and removed the covers before getting to his feet. Zabuza and Kakashi said, "We start training at 5. Might as well get a head start." Nar walked over to his dresser and started to gather a batch of clothes, being careful to no wake Sasuke. Another one? Nar? Nar sighed and looked over his shoulder at Sasuke. Yeah, I don't know why it hurts so much to hear that voice. Sasuke nodded and looked to the clock. I take it you don't want to go back to sleep then. Nar shook his head. No. Ever since I learned about Q.B. I've been hearing that voice over and over. It just doesn't stop and it hurts so much. Like my heart is being ripped out of my chest. Sasuke sighed. Well, I wish I could help Naruto, but I have nothing to offer. Anyway, I'm going to go back to sleep. I'll see you when Zabuza wakes us up. Naruto nodded and closed his dresser before leaving the room, leaving Sasuke to return to his sleep. Nar made his way down the stairs and into the locker room. He walked over to the locker where he had stored his training clothes and opened it. He shed himself of his sweatpants and pulled his red weighted pants out and pulled them on, channeling chakra into the seals in the pants to activate the weight seals. He pulled out the weighted blue shirt and pulled it on before doing the same he had done to the pants. He then reached inside once more to pull out a pair of white armbands and black leg warmers. He pulled them on and activated the weights. He placed his clothes into the locker and shut it before moving for the gravity room. He walked in and started to stretch. Good morning, Kit. Ready to start some real training? Nar rose a brow as he continued his stretches. I thought you were trying to break the seal on my memories. Lamina groaned and rubbed her temples. Yeah, about that. The only way that I'm going to get rid of these damn seals and runes is if you find a way to allow me to gain a body, Narut rolled his eyes. I can taste the deception there. Give me a body, Naruto. And I'll not only unseal your memories, but I'll finish the job I started 12 years ago. Yeah, like I'm going to let you have a new body, Q.B. Lamina growled. You blockhead. I'm trying to help you. Naruto summoned a single clone and pumped a decent amount of chakra into it before taking his tai jutsu stance. Yeah, by lying and destroying everything. You know what? I give up. Train yourself into the ground in whatever way you want. Deal with her voice every night. I don't care anymore. Learn how to use my chakra on your own because I'm not teaching you [ __ ] But you better know this, you [ __ ] brat. One of these days you're going to need my help. And when you do, I'll tell you this. Sit and spin, you [ __ ] [ __ ] Nar winced from loud shout the vixen gave before she cut the connection between them. Nar shook his head and looked to his clone. Begin. The two lunged at each other and their spar began. "Wake up, maggots!" The shout was heard in two rooms, causing two girls and a single boy to get out of bed and fall to the floor from trying to get up in a hurry. They each glared at the Zabuza clone that was currently glaring at them, already dressed in his training clothes. You have 5 minutes to gather a change of clothes. Get dressed in your training clothes and in the gravity room. The one who's late does four times normal gravity training. The kids scrambled the moment the clones burst into smoke. Zabuza opened the door to the gravity room. The moment his clones memories came to him and found Naruto already there sparing with a clone of his own. Hey Gaki, when did you get up? Nar stopped his spar, his breathing heavy as he dispelled his clone. I've been up since 4. Zabuza crossed his arms, leaning against the wall of the room. You've been sparing for over an hour? Nar nodded, wiping sweat off his forehead. I haven't been able to sleep very well lately. I guess you can call them nightmares. Zabuza rose a brow. You guess, Narut shrugged. I can only hear voices. Q.Bi says that they're memories trying to come to surface or something like that. Zabuza narrowed his eyes. Repressed or sealed? Narut sighed. Sealed, but I don't know why. Zabuza nodded, making a mental note to talk to the Hokag about it. All right. Well, take a rest before you join us for the morning workout. We'll be doing push-ups, sit-ups, squats, and a lot of running. And trust me when I say you are going to hate me for the rest of your life." Narut nodded and sat down in a meditative stance. It was 3 minutes later that Zabuza smirked at the hurry jennon that rushed through the door. Sasuke, pulling his training shirt over his head just as Sakura came in, hopping on one foot to put her training shoes on. "Good morning, everyone." Zabuza gave the group a grin. "Morning, Dash. You are all late." The Jonin cut them off with a roar. Every one of you channel Chakra into the gravity seal for four times normal gravity. You two, Narut. Nar opened his eyes and glared at the man. But I was Dash. No, Arin. You get to do five times. Zabuza gave each of them an evil grin. I hope you all had a refreshing sleep because welcome to hell. The four jennon cowed under the man's killing intent. What are you for waiting for? a [ __ ] invite. Move it or all of you are doing six times. The four rushed to the seal and channeled their chakra into it. After the show with Sakura the day before, each of them readied themselves for the sudden increase in weight, only for Narudo to slam face first into the ground. Zabuza chuckled and rubbed his hands together. The three other Jennine turning around to face him. Like I said, Gaki, welcome to hell. Narut groaned and struggled to push himself back to his feet. Once Nar gets back to his feet, all of you are going to be running, doing push-up, sit-ups, and squats. The group groaned as Naruto got to his knees. His face red from his struggle with gravity. Well, on second thought, since you're already on your knees, Gaki, all of you give me 100 push ups. It was 9 in the morning when the four genen finished with Zabuza's workout. Zabuza had to carry/drag all four of them out of the room and into the locker room. He looked at his four students and shook his head. A word of advice, chakra can be used to strengthen the limbs. As such, it can also help with this gravity training. For the next two weeks, you will be training at the same levels you were today. This is to get you all up to speed and help increase your strength and stamina. Now, all of you take showers, change, and meet in the kitchen for breakfast. Zabuza walked away from the teens, leaving them to groan at their sore muscles. "Whose idea was it to let our become our second sensei again?" Sakura asked as Narut slowly got to his feet. "I think, "Ow, it was Duro." Sasuke gasped as Narut walked over to his locker and pulled his clothes and a towel out. He walked back over to the group and helped each of them to their feet. Remind me to kill him," Sakura grumbled as each of the teens limped to their lockers while Narut went to the shower room. He stripped down out of his clothes and headed into the showers. "Think we should have told them about the co-ed shower room setup?" Kakashi asked Zabuza as the two set the table. Narut Uzuaki, "What the hell are you? Where the hell is the lady's side at?" Zabuza shrugged, ignoring Sakura's shout. "Nah." Kakashi. I smiled to the man and turned back to his book. How long of a wait do you think? Zabuza rubbed his chin. I'd give it an hour. Kakashi nodded and held up a plate. Bacon. Hell yeah. It was indeed an hour before the four Jenn joined up with their sensei, and both Jonan had to suppress grins at the flushed faces of the four. Sakura was gritting her teeth and glared at the two Jonan. There's only one shower room. Yep, was the smart reply from Zabuza, who had taken up reading one of Kakashi's books, whose bright idea was Dash. If you can't trust your teammates to keep their hands to themselves, what makes you think you'll be ready for it when a mission calls for you to act as if you're married or dating? The shower room setup is like that to get you all ready for such a mission and will get rid of the embarrassment of changing in front of one another. Kakashi looked up from his book with a bored look. Before my team broke apart, my sensei had us go through this so we could easily seduce and kill our targets if need be. This way, we could protect each other depending on who the bait was. Zabuza nodded. If you really want to complain, listen to this. Zabuza closed the book with a snap. In IWA, women are considered cannon fodder. They send them out to track, seduce, and kill without any teammates to back them up. They lose more kunowichi in a month than they do with shinobi since they always send back up with them. In Kiri, women are trained to be seductresses that can kill you after a good night. Only a select few ever make it out of the system to become more than just a damn sex killer. In Kusa, if you don't learn to seduce and kill your targets, they either banish or kill you. Here in Kenoha, everything depends off of your specialty. Zabuza is right. There may come a day when you Sakura or Yuaku have to seduce and gather information about a target. Either Sasuke, Narut, Zabuza, or I would be there to make sure your target doesn't try to hurt you. I know for a fact that you might come across a target that will already know your intentions, and he will play along until he or she gets you alone at your destination and will try to take what he wants. This is where your teammates will come into play. While he's trying to get what he wants, your teammates will move in and stop him before it goes too far. This is where the torture and interrogation skills come into play if seduction doesn't work. The four teens nodded at the seriousness in the two Jonan's voices. Do you understand? Yes, sensei. Zabuza nodded and pointed to the table. Dig in. You have a lot of things to do today. The four Jennon nodded tiredly moving to one of the empty chairs and starting to eat. Speaking of which, Zabuza and I have worked out a training schedule for you all. First, Monday through Wednesday will be training days. On Monday, we will work heavily on physical training in the mornings until breakfast. Team tactics in the afternoon until lunch. And then after lunch, we will work on ninjutsu, jen jutsu, and maybe some basic medical jutzu until dinner. After dinner, you're on your own. Zabuza smirked under his mask. However, you will be having heavy physical training each and every morning for the next 2 weeks. I already explained this to you earlier. Tuesdays and Wednesdays will be morning PT, a lot lighter than it will be on Mondays. Then we have field training using our new training grounds until lunch. After lunch, we have tai jutzu and kenjutsu training. However, on Wednesdays, the after lunch training will be a choice of tai jutsu, kenjutsu, nin jutsu, or jen jutsu. After dinner, you are once again on your own. Thursday through Saturday will be mission days. However, for the next 3 months, I'm under probation. So, if you guys get a C-ranked mission, Kakashi will be the only one going with you guys. Also, for the first two weeks of your training, you will be following the Wednesday training schedule until the third week, which is when you will be restarting your missions. Sunday is your day to relax and do whatever you want. For now, today is going to be dedicated to teaching you the body flicker jutzu. We will not stop until each of you can do it without hand seals. The reason for this is because not only does it offer faster traveling, but can be very useful in battle. The Jennon nodded, each of them eating a plate full of food. Well, once the four of you are done, we<unk>ll get started. Oh, Zabuza, and I have something for you all to try on before we start. The four Jen paled at the eye smile Kakashi had while an evil grin could be seen on Zabuza's face. X time skip. Two months later, Hokag's office X. Ah, team seven. Good of you to come. Harusen Sartobi smiled at the Jennon team before him. Three of the four Jennon had changed their outfit since returning from wave while Naruto's outfit remained the same. Each of them had even grown taller due to the training the two Jonin had put them through. Naruto was the tallest of the four Jennan standing at 5'8 with Haku and Sasuke 2 in shorter than him and Sakura standing at 5'3. Sakura, who had cut her hair during the wave mission and decided to keep it short, had gotten rid of her Chinese shirt and black shorts for a dark blue short-sleeved undershirt and a pair of matching dark blue cargo shorts. She added a light blue sleeveless vest that she had zipped up halfway and a light blue skirt over her tight shorts. Her headband hung loosely around her neck while a pair of metal-plated fingerless black gloves covered her hands. On her feet were a pair of black mid-cafe length boots and on each thigh was a kunai pouch. On her hip was a utility belt with three pouches, one medical pouch and two weapon pouches. On her back was a standard long sword and shield. Sasuke no longer wore anything with the Aiha symbol. This could be attributed to the fact that he and Narut, after being requested to help him, had taken all the Achihas clothing out to the backyard of their new home and started a bonfire. Kakashi and Zabuza found them sitting at a campfire making s'mores using the aiha clothing as firewood. Very late that Saturday night, the two Jonan joined them the moment they were asked if they wanted to join. Sasuke now wore a pair of black U style cargo pants, a black short sleeve shirt with UU armor over it, and a pair of fingerless gloves on his hands. Over the lower half of his face was a black face mask and a pair of black steeltoed combat boots on his feet with a kai holster on each thigh. He wore a belt around his waist with two weapon pouches. On his back was a normallooking black sythe with a stainless steel silver blade. Haku no longer wore her old hunter outfit. Instead, she now wore a green sleeveless vest zipped up halfway to show the white cami under it, giving everyone a view of her cleavage. She had a kneelength green skirt and a pair of ninja tabby. On her back was a spear with a large spade-shaped blade. Around her waist, like the others, were two medical and one weapon pouches. She wore a snow white lowerf face mask with ice blue flames. We came for a mission, Hokag Sama. Kakashi told the old man and Sarobi nodded before looking to the four jennon. Well, seeing as how you four have been flying through missions with ease, I'm going to let you choose the rank. Will it be Dash? See ranked please? The four shouted to the old man, cutting him off. Herusen chuckled at the pleading looks as he looked through the missions and smiled when he found two of them. There have been reports of strange attacks originating from an abandoned temple not far from the fire lord's palace. The fire lord Amaro Hiddiki has requested this mission himself. You are to go directly to his palace and he will fill in the rest. You have 5 days to complete the mission. The hokag look to Zabuza and rose the second mission. I'm giving you a village patrol mission for today. Seek out U Captain Hawk and he will show you what route he wants you to patrol for the day. Zabuza nodded. At least it's not that damned cat. Zaruto Tobi chuckled. You four leave at noon. I suggest being ready. The four Jennon and Kakashi nodded and vanished from the room via Shanshin while Zabuza crossed his arms and glared at the old man. Now that they're gone, I finally have the chance to ask. Would you mind telling me why Nar has sealed memories? Herusen spit his morning coffee all over the desk. miraculously or unfortunately depending on your view, not getting any on his paperwork. "All right, team, are we ready to go?" Kakashi asked as his team met at the western gates of the village. Narut being the last one to arrive. The four nodded and Kakashi looked in the direction of their mission adjective. We<unk>ll arrive at the fire lord's palace by 5. That means we keep moving for 2 hours, rest for one, and continue for the last two. I hope you all brought something to study while we rest. Everyone nodded and Kakashi, I smiled. Good. Sakura, you take point with me. Haku, you take the rear right. Sasuke, the rear left. Narut, you're bringing up the center rear. Keep your eyes, ears, and chakra on your surroundings. Let's move. Kakashi and Sakura took to the trees with Sasuke and Haku following close behind. Narudo jumped into the trees once Haku and Sasuke got a 5-second head start. The group kept the pace up for a whole two hours before stopping at a clearing in the forest. All right, everyone. Time to rest. Be sure to drink water. Kakashi jumped onto a tree branch and took out his book. Sasuke took his sythe from his back and brought out a sharpening block while Sakura removed a scroll from her vest pocket and started to study. Naruto walked up to where Haku was sitting against a tree with her spear laid next to her and pulled a scroll from his vest pocket. Haku looked up from the medical scroll she was reading and smiled to Nar. Is something wrong? Naruto Kuan? Nar nodded and handed her the scroll. Remember when you said Zabuza tried to open that scroll but he couldn't? Haku nodded, finding the scroll to be the one he had let her learn from. Yes, he couldn't read it either. Narut sighed. Can you open it now? For some reason, it won't open for me. Not even my Thai jutzu and kenjutsu scrolls will open, which is strange since they've always opened for me. The only scrolls that won't open are the ones that just say the same thing as I got them. Five dragons. Haku frowned and opened the scroll. Much to Naruto's annoyance. Well, it's opening for me and I can still read it. She handed the open scroll to the boy and once it left her hands and entered his rolled and snapped shut. Son of [ __ ] Narut cursed as the scroll gave him a paper cut that froze over when it rolled shut. The Jennon looked to the frostbitten area of flesh and glared at the scroll. Kakashi looked up from his book and sighed. "Nar, what are you doing?" Narut growled and picked up his scroll. "This damn thing won't open for me. It just gave me a frostbite paper cut." Kakashi frowned and jumped down from his tree. He walked over to Nar and took the scroll, intending to look at Naruto's hand. Let me see the damage. Nar showed the man his palm, and he frowned even more when he noticed it slowly healing. Well, Q.Bi seems to be taking care of it. However, that doesn't explain how it gave you both a paper cut and frostbite. For some reason, Sensei only Naruto Kuan and I are able to open the scroll. However, it seems the scroll rejected him for some reason because he was using this same scroll yesterday. I just opened it for him and once it entered his hands and left mine, it quickly rolled and sealed shut, cutting Naruto's hand. I don't know how to explain the frostbite. Kakashi sighed and looked to the scroll. Well, Narut, I don't know what to tell you. This is strictly something only you and possibly Haku can solve. For now, here you can study this wind jutzu I have with me. Kakashi pulled a scroll from his vest and handed it to the teen before he returned to his tree. Narut sighed and put his dragon scroll away and walked over to a tree before sitting down. Reading the scroll Kakashi had given him, Haku frowned at the frustrated glare the boy had on his face, wishing she could do more for the boy. The rest of the hour passed and everyone formed back up in the same formation. The group resumed their travel to the Fire Lord's palace, arriving the moment their sensei predicted. The two guards at the gates of the palace stopped them and asked for their purpose on the fire lord's grounds. Kakashi presented his team's mission scroll and they were escorted to the fire lord's office. Ah, Kekashiak, welcome. Welcome. It's been too long since I last had you here. An old man wearing formal robes greeted the team the moment they entered the office. Kakashi, Sasuke, Sakura, and Haku bowed to the man while Narut stayed standing. Greetings, Lord Amaro. It's a great pleasure to see you again. Allow me to introduce Team 7. This is Sakura, Sasuke, Narut Uzumaki, and Haku Mamochi. We are one short due to Zabuza being on probation. The old man nodded with a smile. Ah, yes, Sasuke. Achie, it's just Sasuke, sir. Sasuke cut the man off. I've given up my clan name after some facts were brought to my attention. The only achi left is Itachi. Amaro nodded. I see. Perhaps you will be willing to inform me of such things. Sasuke frowned under his mask. If I may, sir, I will need to think on it. The man nodded. I understand. Too many bad memories being dug up. Anyway, Kakashi, I take it you are here about the strange attacks that have been going on as of late. Yes. Kakashi nodded. Yes, sir. The Hokag has sent us to investigate and neutralize the group behind it. The man nodded. Good. Then allow me to get straight to the point. There are four villages exactly 10 minutes from here that have been raided in the time span of 4 weeks. The raiders have taken prisoners, mostly young women, and stolen food and weapons from the various weapon shops. A villager came to me 2 days ago and handed me this. The old man lifted a headband from his desk. Kakashi took the headband and narrowed his eyes at it. This is not a village I'm familiar with. Kakashi tossed it to Haku and the girl shook her head. I have never seen this either, Kakashi sensei. Tusan and I have only traveled around wave water and fire during our nuke ninja days and have never met a ninja with a musical note headband. Yes, you see the man said that the ninja he got the headband from was killed by a stray arrow to the heart. However, as you can see, this ninja had been a nuke ninja of that village. The other village mayors have come and informed me that these raiders have at least one nuke ninja with them by the name of Cortez Churoka of Kenoha. Kakashi's I gained a twitch. You're joking, right, sir? Cortez Churroa. The old man chuckled. I wish I was Kakashi. But no, I'm not. He's the leader from what I can gather, which is a sad excuse for one at that. Kakashi palmed his face with a groan. Who is he talking about? Kakashi? Nar asked and the man turned to him with an annoyed expression. Cortez Churoka Cranked missing ninja of Kenoha. That guy has been trying to ruin me since I beat him in the tunin exams a long time ago. He's still a jennon now that I think of it. But he shouldn't be that dangerous. He never liked to train properly. However, the reason he went nuke ninja was because he raped and murdered his female teammate and left after he was reassigned to the woman's team. I should also mention that his real name is Cortez Aiha as he was banished by the clan head before Fagaku took the title. I see. So, that's the reason for the large price on his head. Naruto stated as he looked at the updated bingo book for Kenoha. What it doesn't tell you is that his teammate was the last Senu. However, we can't confirm if he actually killed her or not because her body was never found, only the scorch marks of a fire jutzu of where he raped her. Wait, if you never found the body, how did you know she was raped? Kakashi frowned. His semen was found mixed in her blood. No one has seen nor heard from her in 13 years. Narut nodded and closed his book. I thought the last Senju at the time was of the Sanin. Amaro told the Jonan and saw him sigh. I don't get it either. My only guess was she was banished from the clan or something. Amaro nodded. Well, back to the topic at hand. From the reports of my fire guardians, Cortez has been seen coming and going from the temple to the south. I'm not sure why that man is targeting villages out of his base's range, but I want him stopped and the captured returned here once you have killed him. Kakashi nodded. Amaro sama. The old man nodded and called for a servant. Woo. Take team seven to the guest rooms for the night and prepare the dining hall to include our guests. The servant nodded and looked to Kakashi. This way, please. The entire team. But Narut bowed to the fire lord before following the butler-dressed man. You boy, the one in red and black. Nar stooped and looked over his shoulder. Yes. Why do you not show respect like your team? Kakashi started to sweat as Narut narrowed his eyes from under his hood. I only respect those I know and trust. I do not know you. I do not trust you. I do not respect you. Nar turned and exited the room. Kakashi swore under his breath and bowed to the old man. My apologies, my lord. The old man smiled and chuckled. Ah, Kakashi. I know all about Naruto san, so I understand his reasons. Now go and settle in. Dinner should be ready soon, and you will all join me and my wife. Kakashi nodded and continued to follow his team and the butler to the guest rooms. Here we are, sir and madams. The lady's rooms are on the left and the men's on the right. If you need anything, don't hesitate to call for a servant. I shall return when dinner is ready. The man left and Naruto took the closest door on the right while the girls took separate rooms on the left. Haku taking the one across from Nar. Kakashi side and took the room next to Sasuke who took the one across from Sakura. Nar walked over to the bed and pulled out his main scroll. He unsealed all it contents and started to look through them, attempting to open the dragon scrolls and failing. Why won't they open? These three opened for me yesterday. Narut growled in his mind, clutching the three scrolls he'd been learning from. He continued trying to open the scrolls until he reached the final one. He opened it and blacked out as soon as he released the seal on it. Nar opened his eyes to find himself on the ship once again and groaned, "What the hell happened? I called for you, child." Nar jumped at the voice and turned to face it, coming face to face with a large white dragon with a brown line of fur. Narut Kuan, where are we? Dragon. Narut looked to his side and saw Haku looking up at the dragon with wide eyes. Ah, the child that my blood has awakened in. Good to see you are well, Haku Mimochi. Haku pointed at the dragon and looked to Nar dumbfounded. Dragon. Nar rolled his eyes with a grin. Yes, Haku, that's a dragon. And if what I remember is true, you are the white dragon heir. Haku blinked and looked back to the dragon, dropping her hand. Air. The dragon chuckled before glowing brightly, blinding the two for a few moments. Sorry about that. I forgot how much power it takes to change. The voice was kind and came from the human figure now standing before them. The man came into the light, and Naruto saw the white and brown hair the man had were the exact same as the dragons. The man wore tan pants with a green vest over a white shirt. On his feet were a pair of boots and in his ears were a pair of earrings. My name is Null and I am the white dragon of Althena. I am also your ancestor from over a million years ago. Hakuchan. Haku and Narut both looked to the man with confused looks. A million dash. Years. Null nodded and grinned. Yep. You see, you have a kind of ice manipulation in your blood not seen since my old friends. and my Haku went wideeyed at the first name, but Narut just rolled his eyes, not even hearing the name being spoken. Both of them could toss ice magic around for days and not even break a sweat. However, my ice magic surpassed theirs due to my dragon aura, which is the power that awakens our full dragon blood after we have completed our coming of age ritual. My dragon aura was and forever has been ice and wind. I only had two children and over the years the dragon blood in them died until you were born Haku. Me? Nar rose a brow at the girl as Null nodded. Yes, and the same can be said for three other people in your world. There is a heir for each of the five dragons. I am the white dragon, the dragon of ice and wind. There are four more heirs for the star dragon, black dragon, blue dragon, and the red dragon who happens to be my mate. Now, the reason I pulled you both here is to explain some things that you might want to know. Wait, was this what that one dragon was talking about? If you need me, I'd find out. Null chuckled nervously and scratched his cheek. Sorry about Star. He's kind of a figure it out yourself dragon. But yes, that is what he meant. If you can't open up a scroll that you know you have been able to open before, then one of us or all of us want to meet with you. Usually, we will call both of you here, but if not, the scroll will remain closed until the person we want to talk to opens it. I see. So, if you want to talk to me, it'll open only for me. But if you want to talk to Haku only, then you'll only open for her. Null smirked and nodded. That's right. Now, on to business. As I told you, there are five dragons, white, star, black, red, and blue. Now, each of us has our own governing element. I have ice and wind with a tiny dash of water. The black dragon is earth and lightning. The red dragon is pretty much a fire god or goddess depending on who it is. And trust me when I say you don't want to get on Ruby's bad side or her air if they are anything alike. The blue dragon is all water. Now the star dragon controls all the elements. Earth, wind, fire, water, lightning, magma, wood, dark, light, and ice. Now, the reason you can only open the karate scroll, the Kenjutsu scroll, and my white dragon ninjutsu scroll is because of an enchantment that the five of us have placed on them. Do you know what that enchantment is? I'll give you a hint. It has something, but not all to do with Haku. Narut looked to her with a raised brow. Haku is the only one that can open them before I can. Null made an annoying buzzard sound. Wrong. The only two scrolls you were able to open before you met with Haku were the Karate and Kenjutsu scrolls. Correct. Narut nodded as he started to think. Wait, I think I have it. Naruto Kuan. Narut looked to the browneyed girl with a raised brow. I think you can only open the scrolls of the heirs you come into contact with. Null smirked. Close. Want the answer? Nar and Haku looked to the man and nodded. Haku had it right about the heirs, but it's not all about simply seeing them. You have to become friends with them, and even then, it's the scrolls choice to unseal itself to you. The enchantment kind of has a mind of its own, so no telling on what it wants. But you will know if you meet an heir if you look to the sheath of Althena's sword. Naruto removed the sword and sheath from his hip and looked to the sheath to find the white dragon head glowing white. When you are near an air, the dragon head of that air will glow the color of the dragon. However, the only way to find out who the air is is to feel out the elements. For example, if you were to search out for Haku's chakra, what would it feel like? Nar blinked like a cold breeze. Null nodded. Good. Now, say you are looking for the black dragon air. What do you think their chakra would feel like? Nar closed his eyes in thought. either like sand running through your hand or the feel of static electricity. Null chuckled. You're very clever, Haku. I can tell you got your smarts from me. I heard that you don't. A female dragon roared in the distance, making Null jump in fright. "Now you're in trouble," Narut grinned. "Shut up!" Null grumbled to the boy. "Anyway, yes, that is exactly what the feel of it would be. I'm sure I don't need to ask you if you were looking for the red or blue dragons. Naruto nodded. Hot for the red dragon and maybe running your hand through a waterfall for the blue. Null nodded. Very good. Now, I kept you both long enough, so I'll let you both leave now. Expect to hear from us again, however. Oh, and just so you know, they will be around your age. Also, each heir can use all the jutzu in our scrolls. They just have to learn them. See youa. But what about the estadash? It was too late as Nar was thrown out of the summoning realm and opened his eyes to see himself back in the fire lord's palace. Damn. Naruto got back to his feet and grabbed his white dragon scroll. He held his breath and tried opening it. A small smile gracing his face as he opened it the rest of the way to show the jutzu he was trying to learn. Did it open, Naruto Kuan? Nar looked over his shoulder and nodded to Haku as she walked in. Do you remember, Dash? Yes, I remember everything. Narut sighed and rolled the scroll back up. Where did you leave off when you gave it back to me? Haku smiled slightly. I believe I was trying to learn the icepic jutzu. I kind of just jumped around when I first looked at it and learned the ones that I thought would help the most. They came to me really easily, and now I know why. Nar nodded and held the scroll out to her. You started it first, so I'll let you finish it. Besides, I memorized the jutzu I'm going to learn next. Haku gasped at the boy and took the scroll. Are you sure? Nar nodded. Remember what Null said. You are his heir. So in turn, it is your scroll. Haku's cheeks gained a small tint of red in them as Narut stood and stretched. Look, I'm not really hungry, so I'm going to take an early shower and head to bed. I'm tired from dealing with dragons today. Haku giggled and stood as Narut removed his cloak and vest and tossed them on the bed. His back to Haku. Nar walked towards the bathroom, taking his shirt and tossing it behind him to the bed as he went, a single scroll in his hands. Once the door shut, Haku's side and turned to leave, a blush evident on her face. Someone's got a crush. Sasuke stood at the doorway with a smirk as Haku opened and closed her mouth, trying to form words, only for the former Achiha to chuckle and shake his head. "Don't worry, I won't tease you, however." Haku went wideeyed as the boy rose his head and glared at her. "If you do go for him and break him even more than he already is, heir or not, emperor or not, I will destroy each and every bit of you." Sasuke's glare broke and he smiled. "Oh!" Haku blinked and nodded as the boy walked away. I don't think he'd let me go for him. Naruto. Haku sighed and walked back to her room. It's been a month and a half now. Naruto thought to himself as he watched the sun rise. The boy had black rings around his eyes and a tired expression on his face. He pulled a pill from his pocket and sighed. I don't want to hear her anymore. Narut popped the pill into his mouth and swallowed, his energy returning to him and the expression of his face vanishing, but the ring around his eyes remained. He sighed and pulled his hood up, shadowing his face once again. I can't let them know. They'll think I'm weak. Nar walked back into his room from the balcony and out the door, meeting Kakashi and his tired teammates. Kakashi, what's the plan on taking this guy out? Kakashi nodded and turned to the four. First, we have to locate the temple and then we need to scout the area out. Look for any traps, entrances, possible ambush sites. You know the drill. Once the area has been scouted, we'll come up with a plan depending on how many entrances there are. Now, I've packed a few ration bars for us, so we'll eat on the go. Kakashi tossed each of them a bar and watched with a chuckle as Sasuke tore into his, and the other three slowly eat their own. Let's go, team. Everyone nodded and followed Kakashi off the estate and to the south where the temple was. Half an hour of traveling at a fast pace. Kakashi and his team came across the temple they were looking for. The Jonan side as he spotted several patrols each with only two people. Kakashi turned to his team and started giving out orders. Sakura take Nar and go to the southern side of the temple. Try to remain unseen and look for any more entrances. Sasuke, you and Haku go to the west side while I go to the east side. Everyone will wait at their spots until I can come up with a plan. Go. The four jennon nodded and took off for their spots. Kakashi moved to his side of the temple and frowned noticing no entrances or windows for that matter. Kakashi sensei Sasuke and I are at the west side and see no entrances. Naruto Kuan, what about you and Sakura? Haku asked silently over the radio. Narut here. Nothing here either. All I see are thugs. Thugs and more thugs. I'm guessing Kakashi has the same results. Kakashi sighed and nodded. Roger that team. Only one entrance and that's the front door. Open to ideas. Well, we could make an entrance. Sakura suggested and Kakashi nodded. True, but that would bring the attention of the patrols. What about creating a diversion? Each of us takes out the patrol and prepares one of the sides to be our way in. Meanwhile, a team is out here to deal with any thugs that come out of the temple's front door. Hell, we could rig the front door with some nasty traps if we want to. Kakashi thought about and nodded. Good plan, Naruto. All right, everyone, shoot to kill. No chakra attacks. We don't want Cortez to know we're here yet. The team gave their confirmation and Kakashi locked onto his patrol. Take them out as soon as they pass your position. Meet on the south side. Kakashi waited for his patrol to pass his spot and he struck. He tossed a handful of shuriken at the two and vanished with pure speed. The four shuriken met their mark on the first man and Kakashi appeared. Cutting both men's throats from the shock of the attack. The man dragged them over to the bushes and took his weapons back. Wiping the blood off on their clothes. He made his way to the southside to see Naruto and Sakura placing their main weapons away. Good job you two. Seconds later, Sasuke and Haku came towards them, both without a scratch. What about the northern patrol? Kakashi smiled. Covered with a clone, the four nodded as Narut lifted the man that he had killed with a cut to the throat. Nar, what are you doing? Nar smirked. I think I'll use this guy as a meat shield for when they come running out of the place. They see him standing in the front door a few yard away. Call to him to see what's wrong and spring the traps. Kakashi nodded. All right, let's get to work. I can't [ __ ] believe it. Zabuza brought his sword down on the unfortunate training log in training ground 10. The nerve of that old man. He needs to grow a [ __ ] backbone. The man strapped his sword back onto his back. He's the [ __ ] hoag. He runs the village, not the [ __ ] council. Zabuza crossed his arms and tried to calm himself down. Okay, calm down, Zabuza. The old man tried to overrule them, but they held the majority vote. Zabuza looked over his shoulder as someone landed on the training grounds with him. It was Skull. The hell do you want? I'm really pissed off at the moment. Skull nodded. I know you, me, Sukin were all pissed at what the council has done to him and a potential few more people that are part of his life will be as well. He can't remember anything from that entire year, nor will he ever hear certain words ever again. Not until that seal is destroyed. Zabuza nodded, his eyes blazing with fury. That kid has potential to surpass every ninja I have ever met. With that seal on him, however, he'll never go beyond his limits. There has to be a way to get rid of that seal. Skull nodded. I'm working on a solution, but it will need time. I also will need your help to bring the real Naruto back. If this magic emperor knew of this [ __ ] he'd have burned Kohaa to the ground. On the contrary, I would bury it under the very foundation we stand on. Mimochisan Skull and Zabuza looked around hearing the voice. Do not worry. With the plan that I have laid at your feet, Skullan, you shall free the dragon master's memories once more. After all, there is more to his memories than anyone can believe. Ah uh. A loud boom and Zabuza knew the man was gone. He turned to see Skull still looking around. He's gone. I'm guessing that was his lightning shin he used. Skull nodded. So, he's the one who gave me this. Skull pulled out a scroll and held it up. I found this on my kitchen table this morning. The note beside it said that it will break the seal, keeping Uzumaki's memories sealed tight. Zabuza nodded and looked to the sky. I'll help you if you need me. Skull nodded and vanished in a swirl of wind. No one spotting the dispelling of a clone in the woods, its mask having a special kanji. Three large explosions rocked the temple that Team 7 had targeted. Nar stood at the front door holding the body of one of the patrols upright as he waited. A few minutes passed and Narut smirked as he heard shouting. "Come on suckers, just a few more steps." "Hey, what's happening?" a thug shouted from the group that came out the front entrance. The group of 10 glared as they watched Nar pull away from the body and let it fall. "It's a ninja. Get him!" The group ran forward and were suddenly caught in a hail of canai from carefully rigged traps. Nar watched as the last one fell and rushed into the temple through the front. Kakashi north entrance secured. Good job. Proceed in and take out any bandits you come across. Sasuke and Sakura entered in through the west and Haku through the south. I'm coming in through the east. Meet up with Haku ASAP. Keep an eye open for Cortez. If you see him, test him with a shadow clone. Narut nodded and walked into the entrance hall. Haku entered the building from her side and noticed she was in a hall. She made her way east and stopped outside a room. Boss, I'm not getting a response from anyone. The entire team we sent outside won't respond either. Haku heard someone yell. She silently drew a canai from her holster and held it ready. Then go out there and find out. God, what do I pay you idiots for? You know what? Forget it. Get your ass up to the prayer room. We'll hold up in there. Whoever these guys are, they're after those women we kidnapped. Haku narrowed her eyes and jumped to the ceiling. I'll follow this guy to the prayer room. Haku watched as a bald man walked out of the room with a woman over his shoulder. The woman was bound and gagged, keeping her from screaming. Haku followed the man through the temple. Kakashi sensei, I'm moving towards the prayer room of the temple. It seems that is where Cortez and the women are. Haku silently whispered into the mic. Roger. Everyone to the prayer room. If you can't find it, try heading in through the main entrance and make your way to the second floor. Haku followed the man all the way to the prayer room and sweat dropped on the condition of the door, which was no longer in existence. This says Nar all over it. Haku drew her spear and dropped the ground, making the man she was following turn and pale and dash. Haku silenced the man with a forward thrust of her spear. She rushed forward and caught the unconscious woman before laying her out on the ground. She undid the bonds on the woman and removed the gag. Haku. The girl looked up to see Sasuke and Sakura coming towards her with Kakashi not far behind him. The three came to a complete stop as Haku got to her feet. Kakashi looked at the blown indoor and shook his head. Is it me or has Nar gotten impatient over the last month? Haku, Sasuke, and Sakura nodded. I noticed it too. He's a bit more edgy. Edgy. He almost took Kenomaru<unk>s hand clean off when the brat and his friends showed up at Icharaku Ramen. Sasuke dead panned and Sakura nodded. Haku frowned and turned towards the blown open door. What's wrong, Naroku? What are you hiding? Sakura Haku, stay with the woman. Sasuke, you're with me. Kakashi got nods from the teens and ran into the room with Sasuke behind him. The two came to a complete stop when they found Narut in a bladed lock with a man wielding a strange scythe. The man had all the signs of an aiha. Raven black hair, crimson sharing eyes, and the usual, "I'm more powerful than you because I'm an Aiha" smirk. Sasuke shook his head, drawing his sythe and settling into a stance while Kakashi looked to him after surveying the room and finding all the women, 10 and all, near the shrine. You helped Nar. I'll get the women out of here. Sasuke nodded and rushed at the man. Nar looked out the corner of his eye and smirked before jumping away. No, you don't, brat. Cortez turned and blocked the downward slash from Sasuke. You can't have it. I won't let any of you take it from me. Sasuke rose a brow as he looked to Nar after surprising the man with a kick to the face. Care to explain? Nar grunted as he brought his sword up and stopped the blade of Cortez's scythe from using him as a sheath. He's after the legendary scythe. Death scythe. Nar kicked the man away and made a downward slash. Sonic razor. Cortez recovered quickly and rolled away from the wind attack that tore up the floor of the room. "What the hell is death scythe?" Sasuke called out as he appeared above Cortez and brought his sythe down, only for the man to smirk maniacally and block once again. "Don't know." Nar attempted a leg sweep only for the man to backflip over it and kick the two teens as he did so. Naruto got back to his feet just as Sasuke landed with a thud. I won't let you get the death scythe. This power belongs to me, an Aiha. With it, I'll have the power of the Shinagami. I'll be immortal. Sasuke shook his head as he stood back up. This is why the Aiha are no more. Only Itachi is left. Sasuke looked to the man with crimson eyes before putting the scythe back on his back. You will go to hell just like the rest of them. Cortez saw the crimson eyes and glared. So, an Aiha has come to collect the scythe for that pathetic village. Very well. Sasuke barely managed to sidestep the downward slash the man had rushed at him to do. Nar sheathed his sword and started to run through hand seals. Wind style wind cutter jutzu. Nar slashed out with his hands, sending blades of wind chakra at the man. Sasuke saw the blades heading his way and rolled to the side to dodge another slash from the man's side. Sasuke jumped to his feet and ran through seals as the man tried to weave in and out of the blades, only for his ego to get the better of him and watched as the blade and shaft of his scythe was cut to pieces. Fire style grand fireball jutzu. Sasuke took a deep breath and blew fire out towards the man. My scythe. No. The maniac was so preoccupied that he never noticed the flames until he felt the heat and turned to the fire. Ah! The flames caught him and he screamed trying to pat the fires out while unconsciously staggering towards the shrine. Kakashi ran back in after getting the last captive out and watched as the man collapsed onto the shrine with a kunai in the back of his head from Narut. That was annoying. Can we go dash? The sound of rumbling filled the air and everyone turned to the burning shrine. The shrine was shaking and the three watched as it moved back, allowing the dead man to fall into the hidden stair well below. Help us. Hello. Is anyone up there? Naruto looked to Sasuke and the two ran for the hidden chamber. Kakashi shook his head. Once the two jennon reached the bottom of the stairwell, they were met with three more people, all women. Sasuke turned to Narudo. You get them out of here. I'll look around for anymore. Nar nodded and moved to help the women as Sasuke walked deeper into the hidden area. He followed a long hall before coming to a stop at a large door. He placed a hand on his side as he opened the door and entered the room, finding nothing but darkness. Hen can't see. The boy took a step forward while reaching into his weapon pouch. He jumped back when a pair of lanterns ignited in a ghostly green flame. What the dash? Step forward, young one. Sasuke drew his scythe and looked around. Who's there? Come to the center of the room. You shall have your answer. Sasuke slowly walked forward two steps and another pair of flames came to life. He continued on and stopped when the pair of flames he was at lit and then another pair and then another. The flames lit themselves, forming a circle around what Sasuke could now see was a staff seemingly floating in midair. I don't think you'll need this anymore. I should do the trick from now on. Sasuke rose a brow when he suddenly felt the pole in his hands start to be pulled by an invisible force. Sasuke held strong for a few moments before he was suddenly shocked by something, causing him to release his sythe and watch as it floated a few feet to his left, off the walkway that the flame had lit and fall into a never-ending pit of darkness. Come, child, claim me. You have proven you are a worthy person to hold the title of my master. Come, take hold of me. Sasuke walked to the staff and frowned. I prefer scithes. Sorry. Sasuke turned to leave when he heard a blaze of flame behind him. He turned and saw the staff now had a ghostly green blade dancing as if made of flame. I am Death Scythe, the weapon created by the Shinagami for his chosen champions. Before you take hold of me, Sasuke, why do you fight? Are you willing to kill for my power? Sasuke scoffed. I'd throw you away before I killed anyone. Power comes from protecting that which is precious to you and hard work. not killing others. I fight to protect my friends, my home, those that cannot protect themselves and my family. A dark chuckle came from the sythe as the blade vanished and turned so that the staff was long ways. Very good, Sasuke. Strength comes from those you protect, and protecting your loved ones is the true warriors way to fight. Take my power and go forth with the Shinagami's blessing. Your power? Sasuke asked the scythe, taking hold of it. The scythe chuckled again. The power of hellfire and the power of darkness. By accepting my power, you will gain a stronger affinity to fire, allowing you the use of hellfire. You will also gain a complete new set of chakra coils containing unholy chakra. There may be some physical changes, however, I do not know what exactly. So, what is your answer? Sasuke thought for a moment and nodded. I accept. The moment the words left his mouth, the boy was suddenly filled with pain. Then let the process of acceptance begin. Sasuke, champion of death. Where the hell is Sasuke? It shouldn't be taking him so long to search down there. Nar growled, tapping his foot as he, Kakashi, and Sakura waited for Sasuke to emerge from the secret staircase. While Haku had been sent ahead with the kidnapped women, Kakashi sighed. We<unk>ll give him five more minutes and then I'll send one of you down there. The three nodded as they waited, only for an explosion of power to flood over them. This power is dark, but not as vile as the cub. It feels almost like my clan's white chakra with a darker feeling to it. What's going on, Sasuke? Nar Sakura go. The two teens nodded and rushed down the stairs. Nar drawing his sword. Narut and Sakura reached the end of the path Sasuke had taken and Sakura cracked her knuckles. I'll take care of Dash. The teen was cut off as the door opened and Sasuke walked out. Sasuke looked to the girl tiredly before watching her fall to the floor with a blush on her face. The sound of Naruto's sword dropping to the floor made the former Aiha look to him. Nar, what's wrong with Sakura? Nar blinked and blinked again. Sasuke. The teen nodded with an annoyed glare. Yeah. When the f did you get wings? Sasuke blinked in confusion and looked to his side. His jaw dropped at the sight of two crowike wings coming from his back. Naruto noted that the boy's hair had grown out to shoulder length with his headband holding his hair back and out of his face, giving Nar a view of Sasuke's eyes, which were now a ghostly green and black version of the Sheriggon.