What If Naruto Gave Up on His Dream of Becoming Hokage and Focused Only on His Training?

Chapter 1 The Yondaime Hokage had sacrificed his life to save the village and people he loved the day before. The entire village was in mourning for the loss of their leader and the many loved ones lost in the battle with a nine-tailed demon fox that attacked with little warning. The survivors of that tragic night gathered around the Hokage Tower to hear the message of their new leader, the Yondaime's predecessor, the Sandaime Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen. The sage old man thought one last time over what he was about to do. He had spent the majority of the night in meetings over the future of the village that was calling on his leadership once more. Now he found himself seconds away from making a day-old baby either the most beloved figure in the quaint but powerful village of Konohagakure or the most hated. However, a key piece of information would be withheld from everyone at the request of the Yondaime. That request was that no one find out it was his child he used to seal the demon in to save the village. Hiruzen had stayed up all night debating both Minato's motives for such a request and the merits of it. In the end he made the decision to honor the man's last request and trust in the village they both loved. He stepped out onto the balcony and looked out at the large gathering of civilians and shinobi. He calmly stood as the chatter stopped and all eyes focused on him. Most found it odd that he was holding what looked to be a newborn child in his arms. "I would like to thank everyone for taking the time to be here today. As you know, the Yondaime in the battle against the Kyubi no Kitsune sacrificed his life to protect us all." Many heads dropped at this and there was a palpable sense of depression throughout those gathered. "The council has seen fit to allow me the honor of taking over for my successor and leading this village once again." At this a small cheer went up and the sadness seemed to lift a little. "As tragic and terrible as last night was, I know that the will of fire that burns within every citizen of Konoha will burn brightly once again." At this more cheers went up and smiles could be seen if only briefly. "I have one last piece of business and that is to introduce an important piece of the Yondaime's victory over the Kyubi." At this everyone looks to see the Sandaime holding up a baby that looks to have blue eyes and thin wisps of blond hair with three faint whisker marks on each of its chubby cheeks. "This child born amidst the destruction and ruin that befell our village was used by the Yondaime at the cost of his own life to seal away the demon's terrible power. It is by this young one's very will it's life that Kyubi will never return to harm this village or those within it ever again." The aged Hokage stood there arms out holding the baby above the railing of the balcony waiting for a positive reaction. Unfortunately, after a few seconds of silence someone in the crowd threw a rock nearly hitting the child and the Hokage who sensed the attack and moved to protect him. That was all it took and suddenly the crowd turned violent. Hiruzen immediately went back into his office where he got the message out to his loyal Anbu to stand down and hide until this blew over or they wore themselves out. As the Anbu and his loyal guards moved out, he erected a powerful barrier that even the Anbu who were trying to kill the child couldn't break. It was three long days before the Hokage deactivated the barrier after recalling those he sent into hiding. They took care of the few remaining villagers and shinobi who refused to leave. However, that would only serve as the beginning of Naruto's tormented youth. Chapter 2 Seven-year-old Naruto Uzumaki had just been released from the hospital after another attack on his person by a group of villagers and shinobi. It was a beautiful and bright Thursday morning, but he wasn't happy like the few people out that hour as he was walking home. He was angry and fed up with everything and everyone safe, too. It seemed like no one would protect him and no matter what he said his persecutors got off without as much as a word said against them. The shinobi side wouldn't vouch for him even if they came upon the attack just in time to shoo off the attackers before they put in the finishing blow and of course none of the civilians would speak up even those that pitied or liked the blond child. It's always been like this even since before the orphanage kicked him out at age four. Of course, he wasn't any safer there. He didn't receive any serious beatings or stabbings there, but they still tried to kill him. They just tried to starve him or when they did feed him poison him. In trying to be sneaky, they only managed to drag things out long enough that the Hokage eventually got around to saving him. To his fractured seven-year-old mind, the Hokage was the worst of them all. He could step in and do something about what was happening, but he only arrived on the scene just in time to prolong his suffering. The few times he had decided to protect himself, it was him who got in trouble and not the people who day after day tried to kill him or make him suffer through some other type of abuse. Naruto figured he had been beaten over 500 times in his life, stabbed over 200 times, poisoned over 100 times, nearly starved to death 40 times, mauled by the Inuzuka dogs 27 times, raped by men and women 20 different times by too many people to count, electrocuted 10 times, nearly drowned five times including a few where he was legally pronounced dead before he revived, lit on fire a few times, and there were more attempts on his life than he'd been beaten. He had even been used as a toilet by some particularly sick [ __ ] During all of that, he figured only 10 people had ever faced actual charges and been jailed. Of course, those were during times the mob got bored with him and turned their rage on someone else who most likely got too close to the mob while cheering on their actions. So, you might ask why a boy who despite a few pranks and all that's happened to him in his short life most would see as bright, caring, and innocent even if he was a little dense was suddenly feeling like destroying the whole village? It would have to do with a certain purple-haired kunoichi who had befriended him a few months before this last attack against him. They had bonded over stories of past abuse by the villagers and others. It started early on the morning of his seventh birthday. The villagers were getting ready for the festival that would be held later in the day celebrating the Yondaime's victory of the Kyubi. The woman who he was starting to see in an older sister fashion or perhaps even mother for his desperate wanting of a family offered to in her words give him a birthday he'd never forget. Naruto woke up early despite hating to do so as he knew the purple-haired woman was the same way yet she was doing all this so he could have a good birthday for a change. It had truly been a great day as she took him shopping and bought him a few things. He would later look back as thinking that should have tipped him off as they went to shops where just a few days ago he was beaten and chased off from for merely stepping on the sidewalk in front of their shop. They went to eat and played games after. She even bought him a set of kunai and shuriken saying she believed in his dream of being Hokage and wanted to start him off right. He was having such a good time with his Ane-san that he lost all track of time. It wasn't until he heard the fireworks begin to go off that he realized it was night time. Immediately on guard and feeling sleepy from being out all day, Naruto decided to call it a night. The woman picked him up easily and put him on her back with his arms around her neck. He'd always wanted to do this and now he was, but he felt so tired. She assured him he could rest and that he'd be safe in bed before he knew it. Unfortunately, when he awoke later, he found himself on the street in the middle of a dark alley with his oneechan nowhere in sight. However, upon clearing his eyes and looking he saw he wasn't alone as villagers and shinobi with murderous looks in their eyes began to move towards him from all directions cutting off any chances of escape. Naruto cried out for the purple-haired woman only to receive no response only the cackles of laughter by the growing crowd as they started to mercilessly beat down upon him until he looked dead. Even with his unnatural healing rate, it would be almost a month before he was released from the hospital cursing the weakness that put him in that situation. It all served to point out how alone he was, that there were few people if any he could trust. There were two people he could count on through it all and that kept him from ending his life on his own terms, but he didn't want to be a burden on them. He knew despite the awesomeness that was Ichiraku Ramen, they were not making much money because people knew they served him and were nice to him. He figured it would only get worse if nothing changed. The only hope he had was that soon he would be allowed to train at the academy. He had no wish to be a ninja and become a tool for those who've made his life hell. Still, he needed to be able to protect himself and knew that was the place to learn. The only problem was he needed training now, but he knew no one would even let him look at a single scroll on even civilian level defense tactics. Honestly, he wasn't much more hopeful about how he would be treated at the academy. "I can help you." A voice called out to him. Naruto looked around for the voice, but he was alone. "There is no need to search for me, kid." "Where are you?" Naruto asks the voice as he's still looking around. "I am talking to you inside of your head, so unless you want to be stared at, just think of what you want to ask me and talk inside of your mind. I will hear you just fine." "Okay then, who are you and why are you in my head?" Naruto asked as he was nearing his apartment. "I will explain all that when we are someplace where no one will feel an extreme amount of energy being released." The voice said. Naruto thought about the request for a minute before responding. "If you can read my thoughts, you probably already know, but I'll say it anyway. There is a problem with your request. I've recently noticed that despite my best efforts, there is always at least one person following me most of the time. Although they never seem to be around when I'm attacked for whatever reason. Also, while I live in a [ __ ] that no one else would even attempt to live in, others would notice us there and thanks to break-ins and attacks, the windows and locks in my apartment wouldn't keep out a two-year-old. The only place left to consider is the Forest of Death, but I've heard people tell other people that there are things in there that are far stronger than the normal forest areas." Naruto says while waiting for a response. "Head to the forest and don't worry about anything. I'll be showing you a technique along the way that will both hide what we're going to do and keep the creatures of that forest at bay. Naruto wasn't sure he should trust the voice, but when the voice started calling out hand seals, he decided to go along with it of course after an explanation on what hand seals were and how to do them. Naruto made it to the forest of death as this area was called half an hour later. He looked around and couldn't sense anyone following him, which really didn't mean much as most genins could still escape his notice. But with the relative isolation of the area, he figured he was safe. Okay, kid, you're going to learn a sort of chakra control exercise called tree climbing. You need it to be able to scale these walls and it will help increase your chakra reserves and make it easier for you to do the technique I need you to perform. That lead to an explanation about chakra and why he needed more control before actually telling Naruto what to do. 6 hours later Naruto was still having trouble, so that lead to the fox having to reveal himself to the child before he wanted to and altering his plans. Okay, stop. The voice called out frustration evident. Naruto gladly stopped feeling a little tired and sore from where he fell numerous times. I think it's time we met face to face. Chapter 3. What do you mean meet? I thought you wanted me to get inside the forest first. Naruto asked feeling a little better but still winded from his attempts at climbing the wall. I'm going to answer your questions, kid. But first I need you to sit down and concentrate on my voice. Naruto did as he was asked and after a few minutes suddenly heard the sound of water dripping. He opened his eyes to find himself not outside the walled off forest of death but in a sewer with leaky pipes and water everywhere. This way, kid. Hearing the voice, he walks towards where he thinks the voice is originating from. A few minutes later, he finds himself in front of a dark dank looking cage that's easily 10 times his height. Suddenly two blood red eyes shown through the darkness coming closer and closer to him. As it came closer, he could make out a muzzle and then two fox ears. Fox ears. A red muzzle and eyes. I've seen that somewhere before. As the creature now stood only a few feet away from him, Naruto knew. You're the Kyuubi no Kitsune. Naruto states so the fox can hear him. And you're Naruto Uzumaki Namikaze. At the mention of his name, Naruto was confused. His face scrunched up a bit as he thought of what it meant as the fox just watched patiently. How do you know my name? Also, why did you say Namikaze? It's just Naruto Uzumaki. At this, the fox laughed and smiled eerily bearing his teeth. Stupid humans never cease to amaze me. Hey, I'm not stupid. Naruto shouted to the fox. The fox chose to ignore the comment made by his jailer and press on. Look, kid, originally I was going to have you going inside that forest and do this but we can do it out here instead. Naruto looked at the fox and a thought suddenly came to his mind. Exactly why should I be trusting you? To say the fox was a bit shocked by the question was an understatement. He figured they had gotten past this point and then there was the fact he figured his vessel was too dumb to question anything he said. Look, kid, just trust me and I'll make you one of the most powerful beings on your pathetic plane of existence. Naruto thought for a second and part of him just wanted to do it consequences be damned. However, everything else was screaming to make sure the fox couldn't turn this deal of theirs into the worst mistake he ever made. Look, don't think I am not appreciative of the offer, but I am only looking for training so I can defend well as how powerful I get doesn't really matter to me as long as I can defend myself from all of my enemies. Naruto says stunning the fox again who then brought his head down and stared straight into Naruto's eyes. Then you're going to need to have an intense training schedule, kid. You have enemies that would make the Hokages look weak and I'm not just talking about the different demons and jinchuriki you may face in the future. There is one particular group of humans actively hunting people like you known as jinchuriki because you have a demon sealed inside of you. Naruto thought about this and came to one conclusion. I knew my life was [ __ ] but I guess that just doesn't cover it anymore. Naruto said sadly and the fox just grinned at his container's statement. True, but it doesn't have to be. I'm going to show you a clone technique that will help speed up parts of your training and allow you to get a little battle experience, but only after you allow me to change you a bit. What kind of changes exactly? Naruto asked wanting to have some control for once in his life over what was happening to him. First, I plan to undo some of the damage these villagers have caused you by forcing you to starve and eat poorly. Then I am going to make it so you have four strong elemental affinities including one that's rare for humans and boost the two you already have. I will also enhance your senses and give you a dojutsu with similar abilities to the Byakugan and the Sharingan, which I gave those traitorous Uchihas. Last, I'm going to give you a kekkei genkai that will allow you to combine two elements to create a new stronger one. That sounds great. But what's the price for you doing this for me? It's a simple price. I want you to focus and change the sewer that's currently your mindscape into something more fitting of a demon of my stature. Also, I want to be able to sense everything you can. I want to be able to see what you see smell what you smell feel what you feel and hear what you hear. Lastly, since I am locked away inside of you I'll need you to avenge me and kill a couple of people who belong to that group I mentioned. They're the reasons I attacked your village as I thought they were hiding here. Naruto thought about what the fox was asking and had one last question. Okay, that sounds reasonable. At this, the fox grinned at his cunning. However I want your word that outside of training you won't try to influence me in any way and that you won't attempt to take control of me. I also want those nightmares that I'm beginning to think are your memories to stop so I can sleep peacefully. Naruto said stating his terms, which stopped the fox's grin. Fine, but the dreams I can't do anything about. That's part of the seal your father unwittingly created and used. The fox said and now Naruto was confused again. What do you mean my father and what is this seal supposed to do? That is the answer to why I called you Naruto Uzumaki Namikaze. The Yondaime Hokage or fourth as you call him was the one who sealed me into you and he was your father. Why else would he use you to seal me when there were other flesh bags even newer than you that could have been used? The fox stopped to allow this to sink in. He was my father? The man who cursed me to this existence and left me all alone was my father. Naruto was stunned hearing this. But he was more than that, he was pissed. He always thought when he was finally told who his parents were he would find the love and attention he's always craved. But this this was not what he expected. The only emotions he was feeling now were betrayal and anger. He was tempted to say to hell with everything and kill himself but he knew the fox and the man he used to think of as a grandfather wouldn't allow that. He also knew he couldn't leave as even with the fox's help and training he figured there were some things he wouldn't be able to learn without becoming a ninja. Thanks for telling me. Um can I ask what do you want me to call you since I highly doubt your name is Kyuubi? I actually don't know my name, human. I've held many in the millennia I've been alive. Naruto sweat drops at that and then decides to come up with a name for the great beast. How about I call you Kane when I'm talking to you? Naruto asked and the Kyuubi thought for a moment. It's not the worst name you humans have called me so I'll accept it. Okay, Kane sensei, then what's this about the seal? Kyuubi or Kane as Naruto named him was a bit flummoxed by the use of sensei. Sure, he was the strongest demon on the human plane but he couldn't remember the last time someone showed him such genuine respect. It made it all the more strange that it was coming from a kid whose existence up to this point was comparable to the lower denizens of hell. But that was going to change and Kyuubi or Kane would make sure of that. The seal your father used will continuously drain me of my youkai and convert it into chakra for you which also means your chakra control will always be an issue for you. Once the seal accomplishes its primary goal, I will become little more than a spirit inside of you and you will become a demon human hybrid better known as a hanyou. If I ever get the chance to meet the sperm donor that helped create me I might kill him. Naruto's statement caused the Kyuubi to grin and hope he's around to see it. Okay, so how long do I have for this transformation to occur? Naruto asked hoping that it wouldn't be anytime soon yet at the same time wishing it would happen now. It all depends on you, kid. I imagine if you get strong enough to not need my youkai, the process will slow down or possibly stop if you block off the seal. Anyway, kid, it won't be anytime soon so I wouldn't worry about it. Naruto thought this over and decided Kane was right. Okay, so what do you need me to do, Kane sensei? Unfortunately, there is going to be a lot of pain for you and it's going to be a while before it stops. All you need to do is rip the bottom portion of the seal that's on my cage. Then lay down and take the pain while praying no one comes to check on you. Also, if you could take off that ridiculous jumpsuit and check it for a sensor I think the Hokage slipped on your clothes that would help as well. After you find and destroy it, lay down and try to think of things you want to train in to distract yourself from the pain. Naruto was surprised at what the Kyuubi said. Would Sarutobi GG really go that far and still not be there to help me all those times I was attacked? Naruto ripped off a small part of the tag leaving it mostly unharmed or changed. Naruto woke up and found himself back outside the forest of death. He had to know if the fox was right so he took off his jumpsuit and looked inside of it and seeing something he never remembered seeing before. It looked like one of those seal paper things like on the fox's cage except silver in color. He tore it off and decided he needed to go through his entire apartment to see if there were any more and maybe fix the place up a little while he was at it. After he tore up the tag, he laid down on the ground and not a second later the pain started. Trying to distract himself like the fox suggested, he started thinking of all the jutsus he wanted to learn and the excitement began to override the pain. He knew for sure he wanted a big sword to strike his enemies down with like he remembered seeing some guy do on a TV as he was passing by a shop window. That led to memories of how the shop owner beat him with a broom until he was a couple of blocks away for simply doing what a bunch of other kids were doing. Of course, he was the only one that got hit with the broom as the other kids laughed before turning back to watch the show. He also thought about that seal he found and wondered if he could learn about how to make them as something inside him found it very interesting. Meanwhile, in the Hokage's office, a tired and confused white-haired old man had been watching all of this from his crystal ball he had hidden in his office when the ball deactivated as Naruto found his tag. There were a lot of questions floating through the man's head and he could see this was going to be a long night. Back at the entrance to the forest of death, it was going on 10 minutes and the pain was still coursing through Naruto. He had run out of things to think about and even if he hadn't, the pain coursing through him was taking his complete focus. Naruto spent nearly the next 5 hours feeling nothing but pain. However, to anyone looking at him, it just looked like he was resting and having a bad dream or something weird. As soon as the pain left him, he passed out oblivious to the physical changes his new sensei made. Naruto once again found himself inside his mindscape but stopped to focus for a minute to change it into a forest like Cain sensei asked. He concentrated for 5 minutes before opening his eyes and finding himself in a wooded area with trees three times the size of the ones he normally sees. He walks through the forest at a pace faster than he's accustomed to and finds himself in a clearing with a waterfall feeding a river that has extra large fish occasionally jumping around in it. He saw in the distance a castle he remembered creating based off one he saw in a book that was in a dumpster he was searching through for food once. That's when he found the QB running through his mental forest chasing after a larger than normal rabbit. Suddenly, the rabbit jumps down a hole and is gone before the fox can catch it. Slightly angered that his prey got away, it took a few minutes before he noticed Naruto. Having fun, I see. The fox just smiled and then to Naruto's surprise, changed into a more human form. He was tall, over 6 ft easy with two red fox ears, red hair, red slit eyes, wearing a simple black kimono with black pants and a shirt underneath. It was nice to run around for a second, but now we have some business to attend to. Your training will start tomorrow. But I need to teach you a simple genjutsu to hide your new look. Cain sensei taught Naruto how to hide his new form with a simple henge and how to layer it in case someone tries to dispel it. It took him a couple of hours inside his mindscape, but he eventually got it and after waking up applied the henge and layered it five times just to be safe. He would have done more, but with no control over his chakra layering the henge in such a way almost exhausted him. He raced to the nearest shop and tried to go in. When he was kicked out as the store owner yelled, "Get out, you little demon!" he figured he looked as close enough to how he normally did and headed home. Luckily, he managed to make it home without running into anyone else, so once he got home, he immediately dispelled the technique and went to bed. Back in his office, the Hokage was looking out the window in the direction he knew the troubled young blonde lived. After witnessing what was happening, a lot of thoughts were going through his mind that demanded answering. He decided to let Naruto sleep for now. He couldn't prove it, but he knew whatever was happening involved the QB. He just hoped whatever it was that the boy would at least be honest with him about it. However, lately he had been feeling a bit of disconnection between himself and his self-appointed grandson. He couldn't help but feel a deep sense of dread and worry over what would happen next. Chapter 4 It had been a month since the night Sarutobi felt he witnessed the QB influencing Naruto. He had an Anbu bring him to his office the next day, but the boy wouldn't say a word, so he asked the Anbu he had trailing the boy to report any weirdness. However, things seemed to be the same. He felt bad when through his globe, he saw a group of citizens and shinobi beating on the boy savagely only to feel a sense of relief when it was over. I can't believe I felt relief over seeing a 7-year-old child beaten near to death because nothing happened to those who did the beating. They got off without so much as a word said to them. Well, at least they didn't use any weapons that time. Then his mood soured even more. Of course, emboldened by my inaction, they returned the night after he was released from the hospital with weapons. He had to force himself to think about more pleasant things like Icha Icha when the terrible memories of that night surfaced in his mind. He did nothing again, not that the civilian council would allow him to, but made sure Naruto got home safely when he was released. The old man was tired and knew he was doing a poor job protecting one of his village's greatest heroes. The problem was despite his affection for the boy and his promise to his father, he felt the villagers were somewhat justified to their anger. Therefore, despite their reprehensible actions, he couldn't hold them responsible. The only question was how much could one little boy take? That was why he sent one of the few ninjas he knew to have no ill feelings toward Naruto to bring him to his private office. There was a knock at the door and he called out for them to come in. Soon he was staring at Naruto who he knew was in a henge. He was so distracted that he forgot to dismiss the Anbu. Naruto, could you please drop that henge you're using? Naruto thought of complying at first, but thought better of it after remembering everything. Henge? This is how I always look, Hokage-sama. Sarutobi was surprised and so was the Anbu. Look, Naruto, you did a good job with it, especially when you haven't even been to the academy yet. However, good job or not, I am the Hokage for a reason, so please drop the henge. Yeah, kid, I didn't notice until now, but I can definitely tell you're using a henge. Naruto just looked at them and undid one layer. Okay, that henge is down and see nothing's changed, so can we move on to why I'm here? This is not how Naruto acts. Okami, don't tell me he figured something out. Naruto, please remove all of the henges, the Hokage asked. The Anbu was both annoyed by this kid and impressed. I didn't learn how to layer a genjutsu until I was a chunin. I might request to take a few shifts guarding the brat and see what he is really up to. I apologize again, Hokage-dono, but I cannot do what you ask. Now this was getting frustrating. Naruto, I order you to remove the henges this instant. I apologize again, Hokage-san, but I can simply not follow the request. I am a civilian child and not a ninja. I understand if it makes you uncomfortable, but I would appreciate it if we could move on to why you asked for me. What is up with all the different ways he's saying Hokage? He's being respectful, but also disrespectful at the same time. The Naruto I know isn't this smart and he would have called me GG at least once. What is with this kid and how is he getting away with this? Technically, he's right, but most civilians wouldn't be stupid enough to challenge the Hokage and how is he keeping up those henges for so long at his age? Okay, let's move on. I need to know what happened last month. I know I asked you before, but you didn't answer and so I let it go. I had hoped you would come and talk to me on your own, but since you haven't, I'm afraid I'm going to need you to answer me now. I thought he had forgotten about that. I still remember all those tags I found on my clothes and in my apartment, but there's something else also. He has a way of watching me, but it must be hidden or something only he can do. What are you referring to, Hokage? Q. There were a lot of nights last month where something happened to me. The Hokage and the Anbu both frowned at the response. This isn't going to be as easy as I thought. Naruto, please just be honest with me. You were spotted near the forest of death. Did something happen that you would consider weird or out of the ordinary? For a minute nothing was said and everyone was silent as Naruto took up what would look to be a thinking pose. Nope, can't say that there was. If that's all, Hokage-denka, then I'd like to be excused. It's almost time for lunch. At Naruto's response, Sarutobi smiled and thought for sure he could get through to the blonde with his favorite food as a lure. Hmm, you're right, Naruto-kun. How about I treat you to some ramen? asked the Hokage. No, thanks, Hokage-haika. I'm going to eat at home instead. Thanks for the offer. To say Sarutobi was stunned was an understatement. There was no way he ever believed the blonde would turn down free ramen. Okami, now I know for sure something's wrong. Oh, maybe I can join you, Naruto-kun, and we can talk some more? Sorry, but as I'm sure you know, my apartment isn't suitable for company. I must be leaving, however, so may I be excused? Actually, one last thing before you leave, Naruto-kun. Naruto nodded. The council has decided you will be allowed to attend the academy when it starts next year. We will, of course, pay the expense, but you will be responsible for your supplies. They've also decided that instead of putting you with the first years, you will be allowed to join with the kids of your age group so you don't feel too out of place. Thank you. was all Naruto said as he walked out of the office without so much as a goodbye. I fear he's already heading towards the dark side of life and I have no idea how to get him back on the right path. Robin, what's your opinion of the child that just left? She was stunned that he would ask her opinion, but after taking a minute, she answered, "Hokage-sama, I can only say he's much more than what I've heard and unfortunately life has not been kind to him. I sense a dark energy that is not connected to it slowly consuming him. He will be lost if something isn't done soon. I was thinking the same thing. You wouldn't happen to have any solutions to fix the problem, would you? Outside of kindness and love there is no quick fix unless you can change history. The Hokage nodded and dismissed her after thanking her for her counsel. I'll wait until he finishes the academy before making any decisions. Maybe a few friends his own age would help, but I highly doubt he'll be accepted easily. I already delayed his entry due to pressure from the clan and civilian council. But that's just making things worse. I just hope he can survive, graduate, and stay loyal not that we've given him many reasons to be. He turned to survey his desk. At least there is less paperwork since he's pretty much stayed out of sight. Time for a smoke, a drink, and a certain little orange book. The Hokage thought smiling at his newly instituted private time. Naruto had just left the tower and could feel the old man's eyes on him. Well, that was interesting, but I don't know how much longer I'll be able to stay under his radar if things keep going the way they are. As it is I had to agree to go through with that stupid agreement I made to go to the academy and become the best Hokage ever to Naruto thought trying hard to stifle a laugh at his previous self and how stupid he'd had to act just to survive this damn village. I have to keep reminding myself I'm still way too weak. If what Cain told me is accurate, I need to be stronger than the old man was in his prime and Cain won't teach me how to use my elemental affinities or Kekkei Genkai until next year. Naruto sighed when thinking about everything he had yet to do and would need to do. I guess right now I should just keep focusing on my current training. Naruto thought about the increasingly difficult workout Cain was putting him through with the use of seals and weights. Cain decided that the boy needed physical training more than anything right now and a better diet as he was slow and short two things that didn't bode well for his jailer. Although he figured he fixed one of those issues somewhat and only time and a good diet mixed with punishing exercises would take care of the rest. So, with that in mind he had Naruto go to every store henged as his normal self and try to buy what he needed. It took a week, but soon Naruto had a map that marked every store that would serve him and another mark for those that would treat him fairly, which was a handful at best. Only one place had a third mark for treating him well or like a hero and that was Ichiraku's, although he made a point to not be seen there except under the guise of a henge to not mess up their business. So, to get everything he needed it started with the stores that would treat him fairly and then the ones that would serve him. He did get kicked out of a few when he tried to force them to serve him fairly with honest prices, but most begrudgingly sold him items at their correct price. He even got a few items at sale price. He was happy he had found a ninja supply shop that would treat him fairly even if he was forced to come back after hours to shop so no one would see him and hurt the owner's business. The owner turned out to be a nice guy who Naruto found out had a daughter who was only a year older than him and already in the academy. Though he never met her and was thinking it was on purpose more and more. However, food was still an issue as it seemed like no one outside of Ichiraku's ramen wanted to even have him near their establishment and the grocery stores tried to force him to buy stale or rotted food. He got around this by simply changing his hengest to resemble a couple of boys from some of the clans he saw walking around the village. He thought about being angry at how much better he was treated, but it served no purpose for him. He had resigned himself to the fact that as long as he was in Konoha, no matter what he did, he'd never be treated just like everyone else, much less like the clan kids who were treated better than average some bordering on royal treatment. No, it wouldn't change things to be all angsty about. Besides, if they knew what he could really do he'd never be treated like the Uchihas or Hyugas, but he had little doubt they'd be lining up for blocks to kiss his butt and apologize while trying to force him into something so they could use him. He figured as things were life was getting better for the young Jinchuriki, but they were still far from ideal. Hey brat, if you got the energy to think about all this crap, then you need to do your afternoon exercises. Naruto sighed, but did as he was ordered. Three hours later after running around Konoha five times, doing 50 push-ups, 50 pull-ups, 50 sit-ups, 50 jumping jacks, 50 squats and lunges, and stretches by the end of his new routine Naruto laid out on the grass of a local park. Looking on as other children played and laughed happily without a care in the world. Naruto couldn't help but feel a little envy creep up inside of him. It didn't last long as he decided to head home and read a book or two before going to bed. I have to remember to sneak them back into the library and get some more soon. His thoughts drifted off to what would happen next year and if he might find one more person in a village filled with idiots and hypocrites that could see him for who he was and not what they heard or were told. Chapter five. Naruto could only sigh at the scene before him. It was finally time for him to join the academy and he admittedly found himself a little nervous. He watched as parents escorted their kids to the school, dropped them off, and stood around with other parents talking about how great their kids were. Well, most of them anyway. He took notice of one little girl with white eyes who was just standing there with a blank expression on her face as an older boy who didn't look too kindly towards her left her outside the school without so much as a wave. He could see a similar pain in her eyes, but she didn't seem to possess the anger or emptiness that most saw within his own. The other parents and children all seemed to be avoiding her taking care not to bump into her only sparing a few polite pleasantries before scurrying off. She suddenly turned and looked at him like she was studying him, but he saw no hate or anger in the look so he faked a smile and waved at her. She quickly turned hiding the blush that was spreading over her as she walked into the academy. Naruto frowned at the weird actions of the girl, but soon his focus was turned to the angry group of people coming towards him. Naruto decided that today wouldn't be like the other days. He had played the good little victim during the last year all the while training and getting stronger, faster, and maybe more importantly smarter under his sensei's direction. Now that he was entering the academy both thought it was time to show Konoha that they had lost their punching bag and scapegoat. He just stood there with his eyes closed as they circled him and started their taunting and jeering. "What are you doing here, demon?" There was no response. "Answer him, you little demon shit." The shrill pink-haired woman was ignored as well. After a few minutes of this went by with the boy saying nothing and a gathering crowd cheering them on one of them went to strike the blonde boy. Naruto's eyes suddenly opened and he grabbed the fist of a pink-haired woman that was inches away from his face. "Why are you trying to hit me?" Naruto asked in a voice that reminded all involved and those watching that he was still just a child. "Cuz you're a monster." The pink-haired woman shrieked as she tried to wrench her fist back from the boy's grasp. The only response she received was a laugh as he shoved her fist away and walked by her and through the crowd that parted for the demented blonde. "What the hell was that? Do you think he's finally breaking? Have we gone too far? I know my kid would have snapped a long time ago." Those were just a fraction of the many questions and thoughts that ran through the crowd until the sounding of the school bell broke their thoughts and they went about their day. They all left with thoughts of telling their kids to avoid Uzumaki Naruto at all costs when they saw them later. In his office watching everything from his office through his crystal ball Sarutobi was wondering the same thing. Naruto continued walking and had almost reached the front doors of the school when a group of teachers quickly came out and surrounded him. They mirrored the earlier mob in their taunts, jeers, and questions. Naruto merely flashed the registration papers signed by the Hokage himself and walked by them easily pushing past the Chunin blocking the door. As he walked through the halls he could see the teachers all looking at him evilly and he just smiled at each and everyone giving a little wave. All had two thoughts. Is he really so dumb that doesn't notice I don't like him? Or is that little demon [ __ ] mocking me? I'll show him. Naruto just kept walking until he reached the door of the class the Hokage assigned him to. Opening the door he was greeted to the sight of his future classmates trying to stare a hole through him. Well, maybe not all. The girl from earlier was looking at him, but he still couldn't sense anything bad from her. So, he slowly walked up to her ignoring the stares and glares the others were giving him. She was sitting in the fourth row near the middle with two empty chairs beside her. So, he asked, "Mind if I sit here?" She just shrugged her shoulders and looked away from him. Naruto calmly rounded the desk taking the aisle seat and slid the chair out. But just as he was about to sit down someone decided to put their hands on him. Naruto looked at the window as he watched the reflection of the person behind him. "I would appreciate it if you would remove your hands." Naruto says calmly not wanting to fight on his first day as he sat down. "And I would like for you to get up and find another seat." Said a scruffy looking boy with dark eyes and red marks on his face with what looked to be a white puppy on his head barking. Now it was true that Naruto hadn't started to learn anything outside of chakra control and a few seals that according to Cain sensei would help make him faster, stronger, and quicker if he kept up with his exercises and other physical training. However, that did not mean he hadn't experimented with a few of his gifts and the scruffy-haired kid was about to feel the result of one those experiments. "I will ask one last time, please remove your hand. There is another seat next to the lady if you wish to sit next to her, otherwise leave." The other kids had watched as all this happened and except for a certain white-eyed girl thought the new kid or demon brat as they heard their parents refer to the blonde was about to get his butt kicked. "Make me, demon." At the scruffy kid's shout all Naruto did was give a wide grin still sitting in his seat. The smile lacked the eye-piercing gleam that Mateo guy was known to produce, but it still gave off an innocence that would belie what was about to happen. Kiba was putting as much pressure as he could on the demon's shoulders trying to make him cry. He was so focused on his task that he didn't notice Naruto place his hands over his until he started to feel really warm. Still, he pressed on figuring he could cool down when the demon kid ran back to his crappy rat hole apartment. Kiba knew where he lived as he joined some other kids from time to time and threw rocks at the building the blond kid lived. He didn't know that what he was doing was wrong. He was just trying to fit in and make some friend and picking on the blond kid seemed to be the easiest way to do both. Kiba was sure he was going to be praised and become popular for what he was doing. Also, he wanted to impress the Hyuga heiress and surely she didn't want the demon kid to sit next to her. No, she's just too kind to tell him to get lost. Kiba was sure of that, so he pressed on despite feeling a little hot now and smelling something like meat on the grill. Naruto just continued to smile as Kiba remained oblivious to what he was doing to the disbelief of everyone in the classroom. How he can he be so dumb not to notice his hands are practically on fire? Was the common thought. Naruto had spent the entire year training his speed, strength, and chakra control. However, he also bought quite a few books on many different subjects including elemental manipulation. He hadn't even done one exercise to begin to master his elements, but thanks to a strong affinity for fire and his kekkei genkai, he found he could heat the area around him to ungodly temperatures, which is what he was doing focusing on the area around Kiba's hands so as not to bother the pale-eyed girl who sat next to him. It didn't take but a second more as Naruto focused more on Kiba. What the hell? Why is it so hot in here and why do my hands Oh, ouch. Ouch. Hot. Hot. Hot. Kiba screamed as he ran for the nearest water source knocking down their chunin teacher in his mad scramble for the bathroom. The puppy had also fallen during the collision and after a few shakes ran barking down the halls after his master, which alerted the other classes who were wondering what was going on. The teacher Kiba ran over got up and dusted himself off before standing in front of the class. Can anyone tell me what just happened? Asked the white-haired chunin. He didn't receive an answer, but by the looks everyone except the Hyuga heiress was throwing towards a blond boy he didn't need one. Uzumaki, what did you do? The man shouted only to get a shrug from Naruto, though he wondered how he knew his name when he hadn't even looked over the attendance sheet. Fine. But until you remember you will stand outside the classroom, and you better be there when I come out to check on you. The chunin says loudly as his classmates snicker and laugh at him. Naruto didn't reply or look at anyone as he walked out of the room, so he never saw the pale-eyed girl watch sadly as he walked away. He stood out in the hallway for hours and the only thing that happened was Kiba coming back with his hands wrapped up and smelling like he rolled around in a toilet. A toilet that the previous user hadn't bothered to flush. Naruto just smirked as Kiba and his little puppy, although Naruto couldn't be sure on that one, glared at him with looks of revenge on their faces. They quickly ran into the classroom, though when they noticed it was starting to get hot and Naruto was giving off some reddish-orange aura. Naruto looked inside the room to find the teacher and saw him with a similar smirk to the one he just gave Kiba. The man calmly walked over and closed the door in his face getting more giggles and laughs from his classmates. Naruto stood outside for another 30 minutes before he'd had enough. He figured something like this would happen the moment any trouble happened in class. It's not like he'd never been blamed or punished for stuff he didn't do before. So instead of wasting more time he could be using to train, he created a single kage bunshin and then henge'd himself to look like a dark-haired, dark-eyed, black-clad, whiskerless version of himself and walking up to the roof before he jumped to the next one and ran off to the forest of death so he could train in private for the rest of the day. It was now Saturday and Naruto was thinking back on his previous week of school. He didn't know if he should really say that as he spent more time in the forest of death, as he was told his favorite training area was called then actually in school. He mentally thanked his still asleep sensei for teaching him kage bunshin because otherwise he would have been stuck spending most of his days this week standing in the hallway. He didn't even know what he did to be thrown out these past two days as after Wednesday he had opted to avoid being near the Hyuga heiress as it was bringing too much unwanted attention on him. It wasn't like she ever spoke to him, so he really felt no loss there and he liked to be alone most of the time. It was better than being treated like a monster anyway. Letting out a deep sigh Naruto did his morning routine, which started with a nice breakfast of sausage patties, fried egg omelets, sliced apples, toast, and orange juice then took a shower and finished by brushing his hair and teeth before gathering up what he would need for school or training and sealing it up. As he checked to see he had everything he made a kage bunshin to clean up and shut everything off and then headed to school the civilian way. He made it to school with 10 minutes to spare receiving the normal glares and hate-filled utterances, but ever since that first day he noticed most people stayed as far away as possible from the blond. The Hokage had even sent for him on Wednesday to get him to promise not to do a repeat performance as he spent most of his afternoon Monday and the entire day Tuesday fielding complaints, transfer requests, death threats towards Naruto, etc. Then some Inuzuka barged in demanding he apologize to Kiba who had told her some ridiculous story about how the demon kid attacked him when he was trying to help the Hyuga heiress and had his back turned to him. That did get a good laugh out of him even as Sarutobi frowned at him. Of course she stormed out without an apology and a bit red in the face when the Hokage relayed what really happened. She didn't care about what Kiba did to Naruto, but for lying to her and making her look silly in front of the Hokage, well, Kiba wasn't going to like what happened to him when he got home. However, their intrusion did give the Hokage the opportunity to question Naruto about what he did to Kiba. Naruto cursed silently to himself about how much tap dancing he had to do to get around answering the man who was very insistent. Damn nosey old man and his stupid snitches. Naruto walked past the parents, teachers, and other students who were giving him a lot of space without saying a word or even acknowledging any of them. Many parents had tried to get either him kicked out of the school or their kids transferred from the class he was in, but the other classes were full. The only kid who was transferred out with Sasuke who was switched with a civilian boy whose parents complained at first, but bit their tongue as the council said it was for the good of the last remaining loyal Uchiha. After hearing about the incident with Kiba, they tried to force the Hokage to kill or exile Naruto, but even with a majority vote in favor of both the Hokage refused and so they settled for secretly upping Sasuke's secret training and asking for an upgrade to the watch on Naruto as he was clearly getting training from somewhere. The Hokage granted the request as he himself had trouble watching Naruto through his own devices and wanted some answers. Unfortunately for Naruto, when the reason for Sasuke's transfer got out his fan girls didn't so well. Naruto suddenly became a target for every mean-spirited joke and prank they could come up with, but all had failed and in some cases backfired which only made them angrier and more determined. Kiba also took any opportunity to make a joke at Naruto's expense or insult him. Walking through the halls to his class Naruto thought about the real reason Sasuke was transferred. Tuesday the teacher Mizuki decided to take the class outside and see what their level was in practical ninja skills. He bombed genjutsu as he'd only had enough skill to break out of genin level illusions and didn't have any knowledge of how to make one. He also bombed ninjutsu as he didn't know any. Throwing weapons he barely passed as he hadn't practiced much yet with them. Taijutsu though is where he rose some eyebrows. It wasn't because of his skill as he hadn't actually found a style he liked yet, but his speed and strength were at such a level thanks to his training that the civilian kid he was pitted against was badly hurt with just a few punches as he couldn't guard against Naruto's speed. The council didn't think he could beat Sasuke, but why risk it? To have Sasuke lose to the demon brat would ruin all their plans, so for now they thought it best to keep them separate until they had no choice, which would give them two more years before the class size would dwindle to the point that it would be foolish to have more than one class. Naruto walked into class and took his customary seat at the very back next to a window. He chuckled at the fact that since the fight he'd been given an even wider birth than before as no one would sit in his section of seats, so he could lay out using the three chairs as an uncomfortable bench of sorts. Oddly enough Mizuki left him alone and didn't kick him out until he raised up and tried to participate in the class discussion they were having. At this point all the remaining students entered with Mizuki quickly following. After roll call Mizuki got into a long lecture on the founding of Konoha at which point Naruto tuned him out. It was 10 minutes into the lecture when Kiba, who was sitting a few rows in front of Naruto, decided to blow spitballs at Mizuki. Naruto was impressed by the range, but less than impressed when he was blamed for it and angered when just like every day this week he'd been kicked out of class. Leaving his books Naruto got up and walked out of the class with the snickers and comments following him. Standing outside Naruto didn't even wait 5 minutes before creating a kage bunshin and once again going up to the roof henge'd to look like someone else and racing off to train. Part of him was glad Mizuki kept kicking him out and giving him the opportunity to leave and train instead of wasting time in a place that would only seek ways to humiliate him and hold him back. Still, he reckoned the next four years were going to be the longest of his life. Well, at least Kane sensei promised he would start his elemental training tomorrow, so he had something to look forward to. Chapter 6 The morning sun shone down on our blond-haired hero. It was the morning of the exams and he was debating with Kane the merits of showing up or not. You have to go otherwise the old man will just insist that you stay another year in that place. All he got was a deep sigh. I know that sensei, but I don't see why I can't just send a powered-up kage bunshin instead. You do remember what that so-called teacher of yours said last week, right? This got another sigh. I know, I know, somehow after not seeming to see it for the whole year, the [ __ ] caught on to our little act. Though I'm not sure how. Naruto frowned at being caught by a mere chunin teacher. I doubt it was him who caught on to it. Yeah, you were probably right, which means I have no choice. Naruto sighed and got ready. After showering, eating a clone prepared breakfast, and brushing his teeth, Naruto left a little early and started his walk towards the academy. It wasn't a long walk, but it always felt like it with the glares that accompanied his every movement. Still, he moved with an air of confidence and awareness that kept them at bay. After the first day of the academy, the word had gotten around the Uzumaki boy was cracking and was starting to fight back. Despite what one would believe, the village of Konohagakure was not filled with morons, hypocrites, or evil-minded bigots. No, they didn't need to be told who Naruto's parents were or see several hundred blood tests to recognize who he was. It seemed like every day he was becoming more and more the mirror image of his father, and his old personality reminded them even more of his mother. Lady Kushina, the last survivor of whirlpool, had become a beloved figure in Konoha, and her relationship with Minato was much less a secret than they believed. Still, in their grief, they had become blinded by the lies of a few. The few became the sum, and the sum became the majority. But the anger had long since gone away, replaced by a weary tension the last 4 years. The carefree, smiling, helpful child was replaced by a cold, uncaring, untrusting boy. Then there was the council. It wasn't only the Hokage who was slowly being reduced to little more than a paper tiger, a figurehead by their greed. No, it was also the civilians. By the time they had all come to their senses, they were too much under their thumb to do anything other than follow their orders and continue to treat Naruto like they had been treating him. So, with many regrets and great sadness, they turned their hate, now fueled by the council, towards the boy they all secretly admired and wanted to help. Naruto just looked at the school, recalling the memories from his clones. After that first week, Naruto had just kept sending fully charged shadow clones every day while he worked on his physical skills and abilities, chakra control, elemental manipulation, fuinjutsu, genjutsu, and ninjutsu. However, Naruto's favorite skill to practice were his clone jutsus. They were just so useful, and with or through them, he could literally be his very own army. His chakra control by the end of his second year in the academy was enough to finally be able to do the basic clone jutsu they taught in the academy, and as weak as it was, it had its uses, he would admit. One of the things he hated most about the academy was that Mizuki seemed to follow him, or rather his clones, throughout his years in the academy. First as a teacher, and then as Naruto rose past his responsibilities, he managed to weasel his way in as an assistant. It was like the guy was possessed by the need to make his school days hell. It only got worse when Sasuke returned. If his fan girls were unbearable before, he was sure there was a special place in hell for all of them, especially the ringleader Sakura, Ino, and Ami with her two shadows. He seriously questioned what it meant to be a ninja if these girls were being allowed to pass. As he walked into the school and through the halls with the all-present glare following him, he couldn't help but think of what might have become of him if he didn't know the kage bunshin jutsu and wasted 8 hours a day, 6 days a week, being intentionally misinformed and mislead. He seriously doubted he would be prepared for what Cain told him was coming in the future. He only knew for sure of one threat, but he was enough of one. To fight Uchiha Itachi and live was something not many people could say, but he wanted to be one of those that could. He could still remember that night when Itachi delivered said threat personally. Naruto had been awakened by a loud banging noise and wasn't in the mood for company due to a little run-in with another of those damn mobs earlier. All right, already, I'm coming, damn it! Naruto shouted at the jerk that was still banging on his door. Good thing I took some time to actually fix this place up a little. That old door would have long been smashed through, which reminds me. Why am I answering the door in the middle of the night with my history? Before Naruto could really think about it, though, the pounding stopped, and a second later the door opened. Hello, Naruto-kun. The voice said, and before Naruto could respond, he found himself in darkness. Welcome to my world, Naruto-kun. Naruto blinked, finding himself in an open grassy area with trees on the edges as a strong gust of wind made him cover his face for a second. You can lower your arms now, Naruto-kun. Naruto did, and a frown overcame his face. To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit, Itachi-san? Interesting. I didn't know you knew my name, Naruto-kun. Well, your clan, among others, have caused me a lot of pain in the past. I make it my business to know about those who would be able to do so for future reference. It seems I was right about you, Naruto-kun. My clan was of the opinion that my brother or me would end up being the strongest from our village, but I always disagreed with that assumption. Do you know who I always told my father would one day be that individual? Naruto just shrugged, looking around for a means of escape. You All he got for a response was a smile. Itachi noticed that Naruto seemed to continue looking for a way out. I apologize for not explaining this sooner, Naruto-kun, but this world we are in is Tsukuyomi, an ability of my Mangekyo Sharingan, and there is no escape. Oh, and how long am I here for? A few seconds in the real world can be days or weeks in here, but I will only keep you long enough to deliver my message. I have been set up by people who seek yours, or more to the point, your prisoner's power. So, why are you telling me? I have been watching you for a long time, and I'm impressed. You have survived where many would have fallen. Okay, so what am I supposed to do? I would tell you to train hard, but you do. Just make sure by the time you graduate, you have at least low jonin level skill in most, if not every, aspect of ninja skill, or you won't make it past your first year. Besides the obvious, why are you telling me this, and what do you want? Itachi just looked at Naruto and then gave a rare smile. The answer is one and the same, Naruto-kun. I desire strength, and sometime after your graduation, I'll find you and we'll fight. I hope you'll be ready, Naru-kun. It was dark again, and before Naruto could do anything, he felt lips touch his and found himself in a strong embrace as suddenly a tongue slid in past his lips. He struggled against it, but something about it felt right. Suddenly, though, he found himself back at his front door, and nothing there except for a key that looked like his. There was a note taped to his chest, so he looked down and read it. It was a warning about Sasuke and the believed method of attaining the Mangekyo Sharingan. I hate him anyway, so no problem with that. But why would he care to warn me, and what was with that kiss? Naruto thought as he picked up what was a copy of his key that he hadn't made. I really need to do something about that landlord of mine as well. Naruto went back inside to try and get some sleep after burning the note and placing the key in a drawer filled with copies of his key. Naruto awoke from his thoughts to find himself outside of the classroom. Luckily, he was still early, so walking in and only seeing a few people, he headed straight for the seat his clones usually took all the way in the back near the windows. Taking his seat, his thoughts once again turned to that night. I still have no clue as to what that was about or if it was really real. I mean, what was that pressure against my chest when he kissed me? Aw, is my little Naru-chan thinking about his little boyfriend again? Shut it, Cain. I am not gay. Tsk, tsk, tsk, Naru-chan. You shouldn't deny your true feelings. I'm a demon, after all, and if you are gay, that's fine with me. Demons of all kinds, colors, and sexes get together where I am from, so there's nothing to be ashamed of. Thanks for the understanding, but it's not needed. Now, shut up, or I'll turn my mindscape into fuzzy land. Naruto was soon pulled out of his conversation by the shouting of Ino and Sakura as they were fighting over sitting next to Sasuke, who was doing his best to ignore them. Unfortunately, Sasuke was sitting next to him as he had started doing halfway through the third year when he rejoined Naruto's class. Naruto hated it, but after his clones started to dodge him, so it didn't have to put up with the two crazed girls, the Uchiha would seemingly wait him out before jumping to the seat next to him. It wouldn't have been an issue, but he always waited until most of the other seats were taken. So, Sasuke ignored him, and his clones ignored Sasuke now, so was he. I wonder why they never realized there are two chairs beside him, and they could both sit beside him. Naruto just shrugged and chalked it up to them being fan girls. Soon, Iruka came in and used his big head jutsu to get everyone to shut up. Also, surprisingly, Ino managed to steal the seat from out under Sakura and was smugly sticking her tongue out at a defeated-looking Sakura as she sat next to Sasuke. Naruto tuned out the drama as he looked to see the pale-eyed girl he came to know as Hinata looking at him. He just smiled and waved as she quickly turned around. Reviewing the memories of his clones showed that she did that constantly, and for whatever reason, seemed to avoid being near him. He didn't really know what to think about the girl other than he thought she was really cute and really weird. Naruto stopped this line of thinking as both teachers stood up, and the man he now knew as Iruka started talking. All right, everybody, today is this last day for those who have not taken or passed the genin exam. He stops and looks at Naruto with a glare. For those of you who have passed, you are welcome to take it again to try and improve your marks, otherwise, you can go home. To Naruto's surprise, only Hinata, a boy called Shino, and Sasuke got up and left. Hmm, I wonder how come no one else passed before. I know I failed mainly cuz I was trying to and those two pricks were pulling tricks to make me fail. I bet they'd be surprised if I told them I was trying to fail. Naruto just grinned suppressing a laugh as he once again caught the glares of the two teachers. Okay, everybody Mizuki will pass out the tests and remember to use standard number two pencils. And if you need to you may pull out a piece of paper now to work with and when you're done attach it with a paper clip to your test. Naruto of course pulled out a couple of pieces from a pocket that had a seal hidden in it and a pencil. I wonder why they always say use a number two pencil. Is there a number three pencil somewhere? Mizuki finally reached Naruto's row and with Sasuke gone it was just him and Ino. But Mizuki just left his test on the seat farthest from him and walked away with a smile and Ino didn't look like she was willing to pass it to him. Naruto reached over and grabbed his test and immediately noticed the genjutsu over it. He looked down and sure enough both teachers had a stupid smirk on their faces. Naruto just smiled and looked down at his test. Hmm. I could piss them off and simply dispel the genjutsu. But I think I'll do one better. Now it was Naruto's turn to give the teachers a smirk and they instantly looked confused. Naruto took a sheet of paper and wrote down the questions before dispelling the genjutsu and working on the real test before turning to his teachers test. Naruto just finished as Mizuki called for everyone to stop and bring their tests up before heading out to the training fields. Naruto was the last one to hand in his paper and with a smirk left to join his classmates. Iruka and Mizuki quickly checked the other papers before looking at Naruto's and then his worksheet. Mizuki, how the hell did he answer these? I remember these as being on the Chunin exam test when we took it. Iruka said looking over the paper again. I don't know. But he must have cheated somehow. How? We were watching the little demon like hawks. I don't know but he must have. There's no way he's this smart. I guess but there's nothing we can do. I have to pass him for this part of the test and worse is he'll get the top score a perfect 100. Both men sighed before heading out to give the rest of the test hoping the demon fails the next one. They soon caught up to the class and found them lounging around amicably talking amongst themselves with Naruto far off to the side looking like he was in a trance. Okay, everybody we graded the tests and here are the top five. Five. Nara Shikamaru. Four. Tamachi Keru. Three. Nobuzuru Haruto. Two. Haruno Sakura. One. Uzumaki Naruto. Everyone was shocked at the results except for Naruto who just smiled and waved at everyone as they stared at him. A minute later the fog was broken and they all began discussing how the demon brat cheated. Naruto just continued to smile loving the turmoil he caused in the insignificant little minds. A few minutes later they were assembled in front of a bunch of targets that were placed at varying distances. Being an Uzumaki at least had one advantage. Naruto got to go last as all the other kids went before him and without the three who already scored high enough to pass the two previous times the rest were average at best. However, to pass all they needed was to hit five out of 10 on both shuriken and kunai throwing or hit the target 10 times. It surprised Naruto when Ino and Sakura managed to hit seven using both while the rest settled for hitting 10 combined as most seemed to do better with kunai than the shuriken for some reason. When it was his turn Naruto stepped up to the line and taking his time hit all 10 targets in the bull's eye with the shuriken secretly using a little wind chakra to correct the path of any that seemed off target. Hearing the murmurs Naruto smiled as he took his time and all 10 kunai wound up in the bull's eye beside the shuriken. Iruka and Mizuki were beside themselves as they expected him to fail miserably and kick him out with the three strikes rule never to see him again unless they were in the mood for a little revenge or torture. However, it seemed like nothing they did was working even when they tried to knock his kunai and shuriken off course. It wasn't looking good for Mizuki's plan as he really needed Naruto to fail in order to get him to steal the forbidden scroll. He hated to admit it but that little demon was already twice the ninja he was in regards to stealth and infiltration. All he had to do was keep Iruka blinded to the truth of their little alliance by using the grief over his parents to fuel his hate. Mizuki realized they only had one chance left to fail the little monster and that was during the three basic jutsu test. If he couldn't do those then it wouldn't matter how high he tested in the other portions of the exam he would automatically be failed. The taijutsu portion of the exam was easy for Naruto. It didn't test their knowledge or form. The test was a simple how long can you stay in the ring against the teachers test. Of course they took it easy on everyone except Naruto which meant all except a few lost causes failed. When Naruto's turn came up Mizuki made sure to go all out on him. It caught Naruto by surprise as even though he expected them to be rougher on him he didn't expect them to go so far. Mizuki took advantage and after a quick punch that slightly dazed Naruto he followed up with a roundhouse kick. But Naruto managed to duck down fast enough and avoid the hit. Naruto maneuvered Mizuki around until he could see the clock had 20 seconds left so he moved towards Mizuki and weave through his increasingly desperate attacks until he got close enough to hit him with a chakra enhanced punch to the gut that knocked the wind out of him and then followed with two quick kicks to the knees and then a roundhouse kick to his temple knocking him out just as the timer went off. Okay, maybe a little after the timer went off. The rest of the class just stood there mouths open as flies went in and out. He wasn't surprised by the reaction as his clones mostly forfeited when anyone who could do even a little damage was his opponent as they might dispel or accidentally kill one of his more permanent clones. Iruka snapped out of it and after glaring at Naruto he rushed to his friend's side with smelling salts waking him up. The class silently walked back to the classroom to wait for their teachers so they could finish up the exam. Iruka, what happened? Did I kill the demon? Sorry, man. The little [ __ ] got you good. I was too surprised to see that he could do that stuff to stop him but we'll get him. He may know some bunshin types but there's no way he can do the academy version. We'll just stipulate that it has to be the academy bunshin and do it in the back room so he doesn't see the others pass even if they don't do a perfect one. Mizuki gingerly nodded his head as a dull throbbing sensation coursed through it. I really have to kill that little bastard after he gets me the scroll. Naruto and his classmates just sat there waiting. The rest of the class was talking to each other and eyeing Naruto cautiously. They couldn't believe the dead last had aced the written test hit the bull's eye perfectly in the weapon test and then knocked out one of their teachers. Even Sasuke had only managed to place second in the written portion behind Sakura hit 18 20 targets on the weapons test and last until the timer went off against Mizuki. For Naruto to display the level of intelligence and skill that he has displayed would go against everything the last four years would indicate. He wasn't bad except supposedly with jutsu but he wasn't supposed to be good at least not this good. I could still take him though, right boy? Akamaru just looked at Kiba and then Naruto and then laid down. Yeah, I know I could and then I bet the girls would be all over me and forget about that jerk Sasuke. Kiba dissolved into a fit of perverted giggles as people moved away from him slowly. Everything grew quiet as Iruka and Mizuki walked back into the classroom with Mizuki leaning against Iruka for support. Okay, everybody we're almost finished. We will begin to call you one by one into the back room to perform henge kawami and bunshin jutsu. Once you complete the test you will choose a headband if you've passed and then you are to leave out the classroom door and proceed to the front of the school where you can leave the grounds or wait for whoever is coming to get you. You are to return tomorrow morning for your team placement. For those of you who don't pass you will be given the option to return next semester and try again or to become a civilian. If your decision is to return you have a week to get in contact with one of us or the principal. Okay, now listen up for your name and come in when you're called. Naruto watched as everyone went and completed the exam. He watched as most seemed to come out with a headband tied somewhere on their bodies as they ran outside to greet family or friends and show off. He actually felt a little sad for the ones that came out with no headband their heads down looking ashamed as they walked out the door. They would most likely even if it was only their first failure give up and become a civilian. Though a few he spied had a look of determination that showed they would be back next year. One way or another I won't be one of them. But I could imagine feeling differently if that incident hadn't happened. Uzumaki Naruto, it's your turn. Mizuki called doing his best to hide his disgust. But of course it didn't work as Naruto picked up on it easily. Okay. Naruto replied as he walked into the back room as Mizuki closed the door behind him. Okay, Naruto all you have to do is perform a henge kawami and finally a regular bunshin and you're done. Naruto just smiled at both of them before he henge into a perfect henge of Mizuki and then waved at the man before he used kawami to switch positions with Mizuki and then switch back still in the henge. But to his credit Mizuki kept his calm and even praised Naruto on his skill. What the hell is going on here? Why is Mizuki praising the demon? Iruka was so lost in thought that he almost missed Naruto's attempt at a bunshin. But he smiled as he saw it on the ground looking sickly and near death. Sorry, Naruto but you fail. If you can't even perform a simple bunshin then there is no hope in you being a shinobi. Naruto had to pinch himself to stop the smile that was forming on his face. But inside his head he was laughing at the two pathetic excuses for shinobi. I can't believe they allowed their hate to cloud their judgment so much. Oh well, I better get out of here. I certainly don't need or want to hear any more from these two. I should probably go out the back way though as I'm sure there is still a crowd out there waiting to see if the demon passed or not. Naruto was brought out of his thoughts as he heard Mizuki for some reason try and get Iruka to give him another shot. He has something planned, but unfortunately for him, I'm not playing along. They already gave me what I want. The two Shinobis argument evolved into a fight and they didn't even notice that Naruto had left until they heard the classroom door close. Before Iruka could even turn back to his friend, he was also gone leaving him completely confused and questioning everything that happened that day. Meanwhile, Mizuki had just caught up with Naruto who was only a few blocks from his apartment complex. Naruto, wait up! shouted Mizuki causing Naruto to turn and stare at the man. What can I help you with Mizuki-san? Well, I was a little worried you were taking what happened back there hard, but I can see that you seem to be fine. Mizuki for his part was wondering exactly why he wasn't and if this was going to affect his plan. One door closes and another opens as they say. I think I will go to civilian school and then maybe travel around as I don't think I'll find what I'm looking for in Konoha. Naruto finished as he watched Mizuki's reaction. The man seemed to be in a mild state of panic, but he couldn't be sure. Damn it, the little demon is messing up all my plans. No, I won't allow this. I deserve everything Orochimaru-sama is going to give me when I hand him that scroll and this little [ __ ] is going to get it for me. Well, that's a very mature way of looking at this Naruto. But what if I told you there was a second secret test you could take that would allow you to become a Genin? I would say I'm listening. It will be a test of stealth, secrecy and information gathering. All you need to do is steal the forbidden scroll Konoha scroll of seals from the Hokage's office without anyone seeing you and deliver it to me later tonight in the woods behind the school training grounds. Okay, how long do I have to complete this test? Naruto asked. Until 10:00 p.m. after that you fail automatically and you'll never become a ninja. Okay, see you then. Naruto just walked away missing the evil grin that was plastered on Mizuki's face. Mizuki, however, missed the evil smile that was on Naruto's face as he walked towards the tower. Half an hour later Naruto was knocking on the Hokage's door after he managed to make his way past the hateful guards, ninjas and secretaries that worked at the tower. Come in, he heard as he opened the door and walked in taking a seat in front of the veteran Hokage. Oh, hello Naruto. To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit? The Hokage was surprised with the visit as it seemed like the blonde wanted to be anywhere but near him these last 4 years. It did save him from having to use on of his Anbu to track him down so he find out what happened during the test. He had watched the whole thing and right up until he bunshin, he fully believed the blonde was going to pass. He had even picked out his team. He thought Naruto like Sasuke and Sakura as he saw him sitting with them frequently in class when he spied on him. Of course, he overlooked the way the pink-haired girl always seemed to yell at the blonde and tried to hit him or the way he seemed to be trying to avoid Sasuke. They'll be the perfect team and with time may even become the next Sannin. Actually, I came for two reasons. The first is to tell you that the Chunin teacher Mizuki approached me half an hour ago or so about stealing a scroll from your office as a means of passing some secondary test after I failed the graduation exam today. Mhm. That is troubling. Are you sure about this? Because Mizuki has never once shown any signs of being a traitor. I don't know, that depends on if you think it would be treasonous for me to knock you out right now and take the scroll of sealing so I can deliver it to Mizuki later tonight. I see. Hiruzen took up a thinking pose. I could just send Anbu to find the fool and let that be the end of it, but then there's Naruto to consider. I need him to become a Shinobi to both fulfill my promise to his parents and to better protect him from the council and his father's enemies, not to mention these Akatsuki people Jiraiya has been telling me about lately. Naruto, how would you like to help me deal with Mizuki and become a Genin as well? I'd say no thank you, Hokage-san. That's good, my boy. Now, let's Wait, what did you say? I said no thanks, Hokage-san. Nani? Chapter 7 Previously on work release Naruto, how would you like to help me deal with Mizuki and become a Genin as well? I'd say no thank you, Hokage-san. That's good, my boy. Now, let's Wait, what did you say? I said no thanks, Hokage-san. Nani? No thanks is what I'd like to say, but I had a meeting with the Daimyo earlier this week. Sarutobi had calmed down enough to hear this. What? When? Where? Why? How? Sarutobi was truly and completely confused by this. He didn't even think Naruto knew there was a Daimyo, let alone talk to the man. I left the village after Chunin Academy teacher Umino Iruka figured out my little trick with my bunshin technique. The Hokage had to interrupt. When did you learn a bunshin technique and what was this trick of yours? I hope it wasn't another prank, Naruto. It's not a big deal. I found a teacher outside of the academy who was willing to teach the demon brat. Naruto, I know you're frustrated and all, but you have to understand. It doesn't matter anyway. When I met the Daimyo and told him of my situation, he seemed surprised. He told me that a group of councilmen and your advisers regularly came to see him and that they told him I was being well taken care of. It seems he knew my parents and was giving them extra funding to make sure I was being looked after. Naruto really wanted to laugh as the man turned pale at the implications of all this. Oh. So you know, Hokage-san, he is sending a team of investigators and accountants sometime during the week to find out what happened with those funds. Now, the Hokage was close to fainting, but he wasn't the Hokage for nothing, so he pulled it together. Okay, I n r u to thanks f for letting me know. No problem, he wanted me to inform you anyway because he will also be sending along two of his guardian's sons. They are coming to Konoha to become ninja and learn more about Konoha and the world of Shinobi. It was his solution to a problem I shared I might have since he practically ordered me to become one as well. Naruto had the Hokage's full attention now. What problem would that be, Naruto-kun? I really hope it's something I can help with as Naruto really does deserve to find a little happiness. The fact that I don't trust a single person in this village to not kill me when they find an opportunity, let alone expect them to have my back on missions. His solution was these two boys who have been training since they could walk and really wanted to be ninja. He said they were a little older than me and already have undergone their elemental and weapons training. They haven't unlocked their second element yet, but they have mastered one according to their fathers. Well, that's to be expected, Naruto. Most of our ninja don't even begin to learn to control an element until they make Chunin. So it's quite a feat that they already have mastered one and I'm sure they'll make a fine addition to the village, said the old man giving Naruto his best smile. Mhm. So if I told him I can control seven elements and I'm working towards using two or three more, he'd probably force me into Anbu or something. I better keep quiet about the full extent of my abilities for now. I'm sorry, Hokage-san, but it seems I wasn't clear. Technically, they nor I will be ninjas for this village. We will wear the headband and swear loyalty to the Daimyo and you, but in 3 years time we will quit. The contract I signed with the Daimyo for my freedom runs for 3 years and then my two teammates will return to the capital and I will be allowed to either reside safely in fire country or given safe passage to any other country I wish to live in. Of course, there is also the chance I may stay and continue on, but I wouldn't count on it. The Hokage was beginning to swear a bit. Contract? He signed a contract with the Daimyo? I can't do anything but nod my head thanks to those stupid annoying idiots on the council. Sarutobi took a deep breath to clear his mind a little. Fine, just let me see the contract and sign it if need be. Naruto just handed it over to him and watched as he read seemingly deep in thought. After a few minutes, the document was signed and he called in his secretary. Yes, Hokage-sama, you called for me? The woman looked over at Naruto and sneered at him. Naruto just ignored the woman as he was used to this. It seemed no matter how many secretaries the man went through, they all seemed to share one common trait, an unabashed hatred for him. Ah, yes. I would like it if you would take this contract and make a few copies, please. As you wish, Lord Hokage. Nothing was said until she was out the door and the lock clicked back in place. In the contract, I saw where the Daimyo has stated you are to be given access to Jonin level material? Yes, Hokage-san. It was what I wanted out of this deal so that my growth won't be stunted and prevent me from being strong enough to protect myself in the future. However, there is a limit to the number of techniques I can learn per month unless given permission by you. The Hokage just nodded and went on to his next issue. I read that as well, but you will have to be accompanied by either your sensei or me, okay? It's not that I don't trust you, but there are some things better left unknown. Naruto just nodded as there were ways around that if the arrangement didn't meet his needs. Okay, moving on, it states here the Daimyo expects me to give you money to buy out the apartment complex you live at and do some renovations? Yes. After he heard the conditions I have been forced to live with since I was four, he was particularly angry as the council told him I was living in a house with adopted parents who loved me. The Hokage once again paled at the treachery displayed by the council. Those greedy idiots never bothered to think one simple unplanned visit by the boy would send their plans and this village into chaos thanks to their lies. I'm really sorry, Naruto. I really did try to make that lie a reality, but it doesn't matter anymore. Anyway, he expects you to buy my current landlord out at market value for the property and no more than give me adequate money and tools to do the renovations on my own. Naruto, that's an impossible task to let you do on your own. It will be difficult, but once again, I don't trust anyone here to help me, so it will have to be done this way. Oh, Naruto, I'm such a fool for letting you get this way. You should be able to trust that not everyone is out to get you. Okay, well, I've already signed off on this, so I will go along with this. But, if you need any help, please let me know. He didn't even get a nod in reply from this. Okay, about the part that talks about your ability to defend yourself. I see there are penalties for attacks on you or your property. Yes. The Daimyo, after hearing about some of the things that happened to me, decided if law wasn't enough of a deterrent, then they would pay monetarily. I get that, but it doesn't say what happens if they can't pay. Oh, it's in the fine print. If they can't pay, then I get possessions of theirs that are equal to the amount owed. It also states they are responsible for anything of mine they damage or break in the attack. Okay. But, I expect you to remember you're a ninja now, Naruto, and you can't go around beating up civilians, no matter what they say or do. The Daimyo gave me permission to protect myself. But, I will do my best to avoid confrontations and fights. Besides, the Daimyo also had your word, so he made me promise to not use lethal force unless it was unavoidable. I mean, even the strongest warrior can be taken down by the weakest civilian if the timing is right or the numbers too great. The Hokage could only nod in agreement as his words rang with a wisdom that belied his age. Okay, Naruto, just do your best, okay? Finally, this last part about your inheritance. Does this mean you know about your parents? Yes. The Daimyo was kind enough to tell me their names and what he knew of them and their wishes for me. However, he was unable to tell me if my mother was still alive or not and if they left me anything. The Hokage took a minute to prepare himself for what he knew would come next. Your mother is alive, but I'm afraid she left some time before your first birthday and I don't know where she is. I'm also sorry to say she took almost everything and what she didn't take the council did. The only thing left for me to give you is a scroll your father left for you. Sarutobi got up and went to a painting on the wall and gently removed it then set it down. There was a hidden safe and Naruto watched as the Hokage opened it before grabbing a scroll and quickly closing the safe. He rehung the painting and then gave the scroll to Naruto as he again took his seat behind his desk. He waited a few minutes to see if Naruto was going to read it now, but all he did was drop it in a pocket. That leaves a request from me, Hokage-san, that wasn't in the agreement. Oh, what might that be? He probably wants money for past attacks. Sarutobi thought with a sigh at how much all this was going to cost him and the village. This wasn't added to the agreement because the Daimyo wanted me to hold off until I got the right information from you. But, your answer of what happened with my mother tells me I'm doing the right thing. He now had his full attention. I no longer want to be known as Naruto Uzumaki. Instead, I just want to be Naruto until such time as I find the right last name or get married, in which case, I will take my wife's last name. The Hokage could only nod wanting to get this over with before anything else came up. So, now that we got that out of the way and you are now a genin of the leaf, I am giving you your first mission. He received another nod. I really wish the old Naruto would come back. This Naruto is very unsettling. Finishing his thought, he started up again. You are to fake the theft of the scroll of sealing and meet Mizuki. You will discover his motives for this action and apprehend him. If you are unable to, a team of Anbu will be waiting in hiding and help you finish the mission. When you have him and the scroll secured, we will come out and take over from there. Any questions, Naruto? Will I be using the real scroll or are you going to give me a fake to deceive Mizuki with? The Hokage went into deep thought for a moment. I really should give him a fake, but giving him the real thing would show my trust in Naruto. Plus, if Mizuki detects it's fake, it will put him in an even more dangerous situation. I believe I can trust you, Naruto-kun, so I will let you steal the scroll. I hope you realize the level of trust I'm putting in you. Now, give me a few minutes and then take the scroll. One of my Anbu will follow you and then more will be on their way. Naruto nodded and watched as the old man gathered up some paper and made his way to the door before he stopped and turned to face him. I know it may not seem like it, Naruto, but there are people in this village, including me, who care a great deal for you. Please think about that and be careful. After saying that, he left and went to engage his secretary in meaningless chatter for a few minutes, giving Naruto the time he needed. When he returned, he found a scroll sitting on his desk with a note attached to it and an empty office. Sarutobi read it out loud. This is for me as much as you and those who follow you in leading this village. The Daimyo thought this would solve a lot of problems. Consider this the first payment for me still being here. The Hokage unfurled the scroll and began to read. As he continued, a smile began to grow until it shone like the sun. I owe that boy more than I can ever repay him. I really hope that he will reconsider this agreement and be the hero this village needs. Now, if only he could help me find a way to deal with all this paperwork. The old man just sighed tiredly and started to go through the stack of papers on his desk once more. It had been a few hours since Naruto left the old man's office with the scroll of sealing and he still had an hour before 10:00 rolled around. He looked up at the sky to see the moon in all its beauty as it provided the light for his clones as they went over the techniques that interested him. The scroll contained mostly sealing techniques, but he found some supplementary clone techniques and a few elementals that would take a while to learn even with the shadow clones, but could be trump cards against stronger opponents. The clone great explosion technique, the shuriken shadow clone technique, water release, great waterfall technique, earth release, swamp of the underworld, and the lightning release armor. Naruto had no idea how Konoha got their hands on another kage's technique. Maybe it was exchanged in the peace treaty over the Hyuga incident. Either way, he figured he got his hands on a very powerful technique that if he could master would give him an edge in battle. I'll have to be careful though as I can't just use it anytime I want or it might cause problems for me. Maybe I could modify it and use my clones to see if it'll work with other elements. Naruto's thoughts were interrupted though as he felt a couple of chakra sources coming towards him that were at least mid to high level chunin. However, it worried him a bit when he noticed the second was lagging a couple of minutes behind the first one. As he pondered on who they could be, he instructed his clones to go further into the forest and keep working on the techniques until they were out of energy. Remembering the level of the techniques he created, 50 more clones and sent them with the others. Hmm, perhaps I should have wrote some of those techniques down on a blank scroll as it will take a while to master them. Thinking it was the best course of action, he created one more clone and sent it with the scroll a little ways away so it could copy the techniques and then leave the original while taking the copy to his apartment and hide it before dispersing. It was also ordered to double-check the entire scroll and see if there may have been a technique or two he overlooked and copy them as well. Just as the clone got situated in its hiding spot and began to copy the techniques and what was said about them, one of the chakra sources came out to confront Naruto while the other hung back, making Naruto even more on edge. Naruto Uzumaki, what have you done? Naruto just looked at the man for a minute as he was breathing hard from his outburst. Iruka, but didn't Mizuki-san tell you? The chunin adopted a confused look and stared at the young jinchuriki. Tell me what? That I chose to do the secret second exam and steal the forbidden scroll while learning one jutsu from it before handing it over to him. Now, alarm bells were going off in Iruka's head. Kami, I let him use my hate to harm a mere child who's done nothing to me. Dropping his head a little in shame, Iruka quickly got over it remembering who told him Naruto stole the scroll. Naruto, listen to me, where is the scroll? Iruka asked looking at Naruto and the surrounding area so they could take it and get to the Hokage tower quickly before something bad happened. Yes, Naruto, where is the scroll? Both men turned to find Mizuki looking at them with a smirk on his face. Iruka was internally panicking at the situation now that he realized what was going on and the role his best friend likely picked for him to play. I'm either going to be the so-called victim of the demon brat or the unwitting hero/accomplice as Mizuki gets away with the scroll and betrays Konoha worse than this boy could ever do. His thoughts were broken as Naruto spoke in a calm, almost reassuring voice. It's somewhere safe, Mizuki-san, but first, don't you want to see that technique you asked me to learn? Now, it was Mizuki's turn to panic. Damn, now I have to kill Iruka thanks to that [ __ ] brat. Then, a twisted smile was displayed on his lips. Of course, I was planning to anyway, just not this soon, but it could work out better for me. After all, while I believe my old friend is a fool, I doubt he's a big enough fool to believe I had nothing to do with this now. No, Naruto, there isn't enough time right now. But, if you hand over the scroll now, I'll hand you your hitai-ate in the morning when you and the other kids come to hear about who's team you're on and your sensei. Mizuki tried to give his best smile. Damn, the little brat is making this hard. Naruto, don't. Iruka was stopped though as Naruto held a hand up towards the man. Well, Mizuki-san, that does sound good, except for the fact I've already been a genin of Konohagakure for the past 2 hours. Mizuki had had enough. Listen here, you little demon [ __ ] You will give me the scroll and then die like a good little monster, okay? Mizuki's creepy smiled only emphasized what he just said. Naruto just looked at the man without any expression. What you doing this for? Because your hate seems to be a little misdirected to me. You want to know why? Fine, I'll tell you. 12 years ago, the Yondaime Hokage did not defeat the Kyuubi like you were told. Mizuki, no, don't tell him. It's against the law. Naruto still stood impassively while Mizuki had a calculating look on his face as he gave his creepy smile. It's a little late for that, Iruka. Besides, I know you hate the little demon as much if not more than almost anyone in the village. Iruka could only hang his head in shame at the statement. But quickly looked up leveling a glare at his former friend. You're right. I have done some terrible things to a child who deserved none of it. But Mizuki, on all our years of friendship, please, I'm begging you, don't tell him. If you stop right now, I'm sure the Hokage will forgive you and maybe even let you continue to be a shinobi. Mizuki only scoffed at the man and began to reach for his windmill shuriken. Like I would ever bow down to that old monkey. I found a village and a Kage with greater power and ambitions than that washed up old fossil. He can't be that powerful. He needs you to do his dirty work. Shut up, demon. Orochimaru-sama has promised me power, status, and wealth as long as I get the scroll for him. Now, I'm tired of waiting. Tell me where the scroll is and maybe you'll leave here alive. Naruto just gave the man a smirk. Ah, but if I did that, then I would fail my very first mission. You wouldn't want that, would you, Mizuki-team? I wouldn't be so confident, demon. Remember what I was saying before. Everyone's lied to you, the demon didn't die. The Yondaime sealed it into you, making you the demon. Now, die, demon. Mizuki grabbed his shuriken and threw it as hard as he could at Naruto. Seeing this, Iruka tried to get in front of the blond boy and take the hit, but was tripped and fell to the ground. He heard a weird sound, almost like clanging metal, and when he looked up, there stood Naruto, a katana in his hand thrust upward, and what looked to be two pieces of a sliced up windmill shuriken laying on the ground near him. You're really going to have to do better than that, Mizuki-san, if you expect to defeat me. Naruto said with a smirk as he lowered his arm. What the hell? When did he learn kenjutsu? Both men thought. But Mizuki shrugged it off and threw a second shuriken only for it to receive the same fate. Iruka just moved to the side, not really knowing what to do anymore. A part of him wanted to help Naruto and find a way to make up some of what he's done to him, but a small part of him still saw him as the demon that killed his family, so he just settled for staying out of the way for now. Besides, it doesn't look like the little gaki needs my help anyway. I guess he was doing more than skipping and pranking when he was using those clones. Sighing, he took his mind away from his thoughts and watched the continuing battle. Fine, if that don't work, then how about this? Naruto watched as he saw him start to do hand seals as he started drawing in the air to his lungs before calling out, Katon. Gokakyuu no Jutsu. As a flame that turns into a giant fireball comes out of his mouth and through the ring his fingers made. Naruto smiled as he did a ninjutsu of his own without calling out, Doton. Dochu Iwa Geou no Jutsu. And went underground waiting for the fireball to pass. Mizuki smiled when the fireball dissipated and the brat was nowhere in sight. Ha, too easy. Then he frowned. Damn, now I have no way of finding the scroll before those idiots in ANBU find me. Turning to see his friend stare at the scorched earth in shock, he addressed him. I'd like to let you live, Iruka, but the truth is I've always hated you, and since you're the only witness to what went on here, I can't let you leave. Look on the bright side, though. When everyone finds out what happened here, you'll be seen as a hero who died killing the demon brat and finished what Yondaime-sama started. Mizuki started to do more hand seals to finish the job and get out of Konoha quickly, but stopped as the ground near the scorched area shook a bit, and then something yellow popped out of the ground followed by a head, and then a torso, and finally he was staring into the blue eyes of Uzumaki Naruto. Sorry, Mizuki-san, it won't be that easy. But now I have to put an end to this as I can't show everything I've been working on yet. Mizuki tried to do the hand seals again, but Naruto flashed through his first, beating him to it as he calls out, Futon. Daitoppa. As the wind around the blond suddenly explodes out hitting Mizuki dead on and pushing him into a tree knocking him out. Moving quickly, Naruto takes some ninja wire and ties Mizuki up, then signals for the ANBU who quickly come down scooping Mizuki up quickly taking him to Ibiki. It was just Naruto and Iruka now in the clearing. Iruka was slightly in shock about that happened since the test began. He didn't know what to think about himself after reviewing all the hateful things he had done under the guise of revenging his family. Then he looked to the boy he once hated and watched as he went behind a tree and retrieved the scroll of sealing. How can he be such a good kid in spite of the many evil deeds done to him by people like me and that council. If he ever did seek revenge, it would rightfully be his to seek. He stopped his thoughts when he noticed Naruto was leaving without so much as a glance towards him, so he called out to him. Ah, Naruto, could you wait a moment as I would like to talk to you? Naruto stopped and turned to look at his former instructor. Iruka sighed as he realized Naruto wasn't going to say anything. I would like to say I'm sorry. Before he could get any further, though, Naruto interrupted him. I thank you for your apology, but it is wasted on me. I do not forgive you or anyone in this village, including the Hokage, for what has been done to me. However, I do not seek revenge. I just want to be left alone. Why? Why what? Why don't you seek revenge? Surely, if any of us were in your position, we would have a long time ago. Well, that is one thing I'm proud of, and that's not being like any of you. Hate only begets more hate and violence only brings more violence. I am by no means a pacifist as I will kill when it is necessary, but I will not bloody my hands for this village. Anyways, I got to go give this back and get ready for team assignments tomorrow, so I'll see you then. Naruto turned to leave, but was stopped once again as the Chunin ran up to the young blond. How about as a further means of apology, you allow me to buy you dinner? No, thanks. I only eat with those I trust. Naruto didn't even wait to see the look of shame followed by one of shock on the Chunin's face as he shoe shined to the tower. Naruto shoe shined right to the front of the tower. He quickly made his way through and up to the Hokage's office. He managed to avoid most of the people who tried to keep him away from the Hokage and only had to deal with one annoyance. Finally making his way up to the door, he just ignored the secretary and knocked on the door. Hearing enter, Naruto opened the door and made his way inside. The Hokage looked up from his paper and smiled. Naruto, glad to see you are alive and unharmed. I take it things went well, then? Yes. I didn't learn everything, but I'm sure Ibiki or his assistant will get it out of him. The Hokage took note of the tone he used for Anko and sighed. I guess he's serious about having nothing to do with her. Too bad, she would have been perfect to oversee his team, and it would have helped her as well. I'm sure they will. Ibiki is quite talented and well-known for his style of interrogation. I've heard. Anyway, I did learn why he wanted the scroll. At this, the Hokage perked up a bit. Oh, why is that? He said Orochimaru promised him things, and then he said some disparaging things about the village and you. He also said that Orochimaru was recruiting him to join his village, though he didn't name it. This is serious information indeed, Naruto. I want to congratulate you on a job well done and hand you your pay personally. The Hokage gave Naruto an envelope with 200,000 ryu. This will be documented as a solo B-rank as your pay reflects. I would make it S-rank, but I don't think Mizuki is worthy of that distinction. Naruto just nodded and pocketed the money. Okay, now I want you to know the landlord issue has already been dealt with, and the money for the renovations will be given to you when you are ready. Naruto just nodded again. There is one last thing, Naruto. The council somehow At this, he looked around at the hidden ANBU wondering who it was, but thought better of it. No, it was most likely that damn secretary. No matter how many I fire, they all seem to be plants of that damnable council. Anyway, they somehow found out about your time away and have called a meeting that will commence in a few minutes. I would like you to accompany me. At this, both men shared a grin that promised a lot of pain and possibly death to someone. Sure, if you let me carry out the Daimyo's second order on that scroll I left you. Sarutobi continued to smile. Sorry, Naruto, but that is something I've been waiting to do for decades now. Fine, but I get the others if you deem it necessary. I'm sure something can be arranged, Naruto-kun. Now, let's go. We don't want to keep them waiting, do we? After you, Hokage-san. Both just smiled at what was about to happen. Hmm, I think I'll use this to reveal a bit of myself and show those bastards just who they've been messing with. Naruto had to stifle the evil cackle that threatened to come out as they continued to make their way towards council chambers. Chapter 8. The council meeting was already in session as far as the council was concerned. They would, of course, inform the Hokage later after they decided the fate of one Uzumaki Naruto. The decision was mostly made as save for a few holdouts, the vote was to execute. Nobody dared vote against as they didn't want to lose their position or have the council turn on them like they had seen it do in the past to previous deceased members. There had been many meetings like these over the past 12, almost 13 years, but until now none of them thought he was a threat. Most still didn't, but the stealing of the forbidden scroll gave them an excuse. All deliberations were stopped before they could get a true vote when the doors opened and the Hokage walked in. The room instantly quieted, many cursing their luck. But the mood of the room instantly changed to anger and rage when they saw who was with him. Naruto walked in the room alongside the old man with no expression and not looking at anyone. He could feel their heated stares as they tried to will him to burst into flames and die. Ignoring them, he just looked forward until he caught sight of three people he really didn't like. The elders of the council stood up and greeted them. Hokage-sama, to what do we owe the honor of you being here and with that boy? The Hokage didn't answer, instead he slowly walked up and took his seat at the head of the council. Hiruzen Sarutobi looked around at the council, judging each one and thinking of what he was about to do. Before he could do anything though, he was addressed by one of the civilians. Lord Hokage, what are you doing here? Sarutobi just stared at the stupid man for a minute. Actually, that's a question I would like you all to answer. The Hokage states, waiting for one of them to be dumb enough to say it. We were going to inform you, Hokage-sama, but we figured you were busy due to what was going on. At this most of the counselors looked down at Naruto, doing little to hide their disdain for the boy. So, we got together and were deliberating about the boy and what should happen to him. Well then, you can stop because nothing will be happening to him. The council was outraged and voiced their displeasure, especially a mother of a certain pink-haired banshee, whose voice was canceling out most of the others and giving everyone headaches. Shut up. This served to quiet everyone as they never believed their beloved old man could shout like that. Now, as I was saying, at this he glared at the pink-haired woman who shrank back in her seat as he continued to say, Nothing will happen to him because it was a special mission given to him by me to capture a traitor. This got their attention. Ano Hokage-sama, but what traitor? asked Utatane Koharu. Earlier this evening, after failing a rigged genin exam, you see, he looked down to see Naruto glaring up at him. A few observant councilmen decided to check into that later as the Hokage continued. I mean, Naruto was approached by his chunin teacher assistant Mizuki, who tried to trick him into stealing the scroll of sealing for him under the guise of it being a test to become genin. The council had a hard time swallowing this as they believed Naruto to be as dumb as a box of rocks and about just as talented. Well, save a few who had designs on the boy and knew he was hiding something. Wait, what do you mean tried? Danzo asked. The Hokage cleared his throat and smiled at Naruto who answered, He means Mizuki thought of me just like you do. So, he believed me when I went along with his little deception thinking he was so smart and I was so dumb despite the fact that if he or Iruka had graded my papers honestly, I would have earned top marks academically. Then he started laughing. I mean, do you really believe this woman's daughter is the top kunoichi of the class with two female clan heirs and her minuscule chakra levels against her? Naruto said as he pointed at the female civilian council member Haruno Sakura. I mean, I think we all know how she got that distinction and it wasn't in the classroom. It's as they say, like mother, like daughter. Naruto said as the council erupted in laughter until a screeching yell caused everyone to cover their ears except for the unfortunate ANBU who had to keep the woman from attempting to strangle Naruto. Soon enough everything was calm again and Naruto continued. Anyway, I informed Hokage-san who gave me permission to use the real scroll. Naruto was interrupted by one of the elders who glared at his former teammate. You gave that boy the real scroll of sealing written by the Yondaime? The council was outraged at this lapse in judgment as they began to think it was definitely time to replace the old coot despite how good a figurehead he'd been. The Hokage ignored the whispers and answered, Yes, I believe Naruto-kun here has proven worthy of my trust and then there was the chance Mizuki would have seen it was a fake and harmed him. That was the last straw as most of the council was concerned. There would be a new Hokage as soon as they could get rid of the old man and call for a vote. Once again, ignoring the dissension he was hearing among the council, the old man pressed on. Naruto-kun proved to be quite capable as well. He saved chunin Umino Iruka from Mizuki, delivered the forbidden scroll without so much as a smudge on it, and found out the root of these actions taken by Mizuki, who I feared to be a bad seed since that incident with his former teammates. Oh, and why did he do these things? asked Mitokado Homura. He was exchanging the scroll for citizenship in another village among other things with Orochimaru. Hiruzen said sadly as the council was again in uproar. After a break to allow everyone to digest the information, the council convened again. So, what do you plan to do about this? Utatane Koharu asked. Part of the problem is already being dealt with as we are searching for other hidden spies of the snakes or others. No one except a few prominent clan heads, Sarutobi and Naruto noticed Danzo's flinch. There will also be some issues with this current crop of graduates that need to be fixed. Sarutobi says. What do you mean, Hokage-sama? asked a civilian. I mean, it's just as Naruto-kun said. Unfortunately, due to the attempted sabotage of Naruto by the two chunin who were in charge of this graduating class for most of their time in the academy, the other students were sabotaged instead. At this shouts of it's the demon's fault and I knew this would happen were shouted with glares towards the boy in question. Hm, better a demon like Kurama than pieces of trash like the majority of this council. Naruto said while closing his eyes. This only served to incite more yelling and once again needing the ANBU to restrain some civilian and shinobi council members. Enough! The old man shouted again, leveling a field of ki on everyone that only the prominent clan heads and Naruto were able to shrug off. Once it was quiet again, the Hokage looked at Naruto. I know you're tired, Naruto, and these meetings can be tough, but I need you to wait a little longer, okay? Sarutobi said, giving Naruto a quick smile. What, that's it? You are not going to do anything about the disrespect he's shown this council. To let a mere civilian child Before he got any further, Sarutobi interrupted again. I guess you are not that smart. This confused some of the council and angered the man in question. He's not a civilian anymore as capturing Mizuki and finding out his motives was a mission I gave him and he performed brilliantly. So, he's a shinobi now. What? was the deafening shout heard through the village. After clearing out his ears and getting rid of the ringing noise he kept hearing, Sarutobi tried again. I said he's a genuine ninja of this village now. There were no more loud shouts, just shock. The council had lost their pet and most were pissed. But they were still determined to get their way. As to what Naruto-kun said about this council, I agree. After a couple minutes of shock, a second shout was heard throughout the village. What? Again, he had to clear out his ears only to look at Naruto and see he had earplugs in his ear. What? The pink one's daughter has been my classmate or my clone's classmate for the last 4 years. I just learned to keep a pair handy. Naruto said with a smile. The Hokage may give me signs with his hands, but Naruto just shook his head and smiled. Brat could have at least carried some extra. was the general thought. Giving up, the Hokage decided to end this before he went deaf. The reason I brought Naruto-kun with me is before I gave him his first mission, told me something interesting, getting their attention again. He had a meeting with the Daimyo earlier this week. The elders and several counselors nearly fainted at this while the rest paled save for a few lucky idiots that thought it meant nothing. W W H, what were you doing in the capital, Naruto? asked Homura. Naruto answered him with an ever-growing smile. Certain events happened this past week that let me know I needed some protection, so I took a page out of this council's playbook and went straight to the big man. We had a discussion where I told him about my life. Naruto looked around and saw fear in a few eyes. I tried to convince him that because of my lack of trust and disdain for Konoha in general that I shouldn't be a shinobi and therefore be allowed to leave Konoha peaceably. Naruto looked around again and saw various reactions. Most of the civilians seemed happy they may be getting their wish and he'd be gone. The elders were still scared stiff. Danzo was pissed as were some of the shinobi council and curiosity was shown by the rest. Before he could continue, a civilian made their presence known. Thank Kami, finally we'll be safe. Before any others could join him in praising their deity of choice though, Naruto continued. Anyway, as I was saying, I tried, but he would hear nothing of the sort. It seems he knew of my heritage and refused to let me walk away, so I made a deal with him. Hold up. Why would he care whose parents some demon orphans were? said another ignorant civilian. Because his parents are none other than Uzumaki Kushina and Namikaze Minato. The Hokage said as the council dissolved into more shouts and insults. Finally, after calling for another break, everyone took their seats quietly for a change and waited for an explanation. How is that possible, Hokage-sama? asked an impatient Hyuga Hiashi. As you all may know, Kushina had a relationship with Minato-kun. He got many nods at this as all all female council members and most of the men thought of how they tried to court one of them. Sarutobi continued, "What you don't know is they secretly married and had Naruto. Why else do you think he was used despite being one of the oldest babies in the hospital?" He let this sink in. "However, a few months before Naruto-kun's first birthday, she suddenly fled the village leaving him behind in my office with a note to take care of him." "What happened to her?" "I don't know." The Hokage answered truthfully. "I can answer that." All eyes were back on Naruto holding looks of sorrow and guilt. "She was attacked by a group of blank masked Anbu. Well, at least that's what she told the Daimyo when she swung by the capital before leaving Fire Country." At this, everyone gasped and turned towards Danzo. "Vwoot!" "My group was disbanded long before then. It could have been anyone." Danzo said. "Anyway, the Daimyo said he could help her. But she just asked him to keep an eye on Konoha and me. He asked her why and her reply was that it wasn't the first attack on us and that the first 9 months of my life she had spent doing nothing but fending off attack after attack from civilians, the blank masks, and even fellow ninja she had fought with and thought of as friends. She just wanted peace and felt bad for leaving me behind with a bunch of monsters, but felt if she left with me, she would have no peace and be hunted until we were both killed. Plus, she thought the Hokage would be able to protect me better than she could. Obviously, she was wrong." Naruto finished and noticed more sad and guilty looks among the group. "Naruto, that's not what you told me before." The Hokage said. "I told you he told me what he knew. But like I just said, she left almost 12 years ago and just disappeared so he doesn't know where she is or what's happened to her since." The Hokage just sighed and gave up. "Besides Hokage-san, I believe it's time the council learns of the change in policy signed by the Daimyo." Both began to smile and the entire council felt a cold wind tickle their spine. "I believe you're right, Naruto-kun." The Hokage stood up and looked at his former teammates and Danzo with a smirk as he began. "Due to the actions of some of this council, the Daimyo in his meeting with Naruto asked him to give me this scroll." He held the scroll up and unfurled it before continuing. "He has given me the ability to disband this council and I am. Until further notice, the Konoha council is disbanded and never to darken my office again." The shouts of outrage and threats of violence commenced until the Anbu escorted everyone except for Danzo out of the room and circled him before he could escape. "What is the meaning of this, Sarutobi?" Danzo spat with as much anger as he could muster. "I think you know what this is about, old friend." Danzo was looking around for any means of escape, but saw none. "Let's end this peacefully, Danzo. You had a nice run, but you went too far." Danzo laughed. "You fool, it's people like me that allow the tree huggers like you to continue to spew your soft-hearted ideals and stay safe at night. The Shinobi world is full of danger and isn't a place for weak-minded old fools like you have become." The Hokage just spat at Danzo's feet. "No, it's scum like you that continue to turn these lands into nothing but battlefields. I shudder to think what this village would look like if you ever gained the power you've gone so far to obtain." "Whatever, we've never seen eye to eye, Sarubaka." "No assemble." Danzo was surrounded by 20 of his root soldiers as he threw his cloak away showing his right arm held 10 Sharingan embedded in it. Then he removed the bandages on his head revealing another Sharingan. The Hokage was beyond himself with rage at what his one-time friend and teammate had apparently done. "What is the meaning of this, Danzo?" "You mean the eyes? Do you like I had my best Iryonin medic transplant them after the Uchiha massacre." Suddenly, things clicked for Naruto. "Wait, so you're one of those guys that set up Itachi-san?" Naruto said with a low growl. "I guess there is no point in hiding it. Yes, with help of a ninja who's held a long-standing grudge against the Uchiha clan, my soldiers destroyed the pathetic clan before anyone knew we did it and set him up to take the fall." Sarutobi was truly shocked by how far his friend had fallen. "Why, Danzo? Why do all this? Kushina? The Uchihas? We used to be best friends and shared the same ideals." He was caught off guard by a laugh from Danzo. "Please, that [ __ ] would have gotten in the way of my attaining the ultimate weapon and that clan gave me the means to control it. As far as our friendship, that's been dead ever since the day you stole my glory and took credit for my idea of being the decoy against those Kumonin and the second rewarded you with what should have been mine. I should have become the Sandaim Hokage, not you. It should be my face on the Hokage mountain." Now, Danzo was interrupted by a laugh, but this time by Naruto. "Wow, you're an even more pathetic old fart than I originally thought you were. I bet you can't even use those eyes and you'll never get me, Danzo-teme. So, I hope you have another Jinchuriki stashed away somewhere." Danzo furiously replied. "You will submit to me, boy, and I will be Hokage. Now, hush up while the adults settle things. Now, enough talk. Now, capture the boy and kill anyone that gets in your way." Turning his attention back to Sarutobi, he says, "Let's do this, old friend. Anbu, capture or kill them all." "Naruto, stay safe." The Hokage orders as he prepares to do battle. "Don't worry about me, old man. I got a few hidden abilities I'd like to try out myself." Naruto said as his eyes flashed a bright orange color before settling down to a darker orange color. Naruto saw the shock in the Hokage's eyes as he looked at his Dojutsu. "We'll talk later. Anbu-san, how about we give the Hokage a little room and take this elsewhere." Before they could answer, Naruto with the Ne on his tail ran outside the building with Anbu following them closely. Naruto reached the outside and saw that most of what was the council was still there. The council saw him or more specifically his eyes and gasped. "Is that a Dojutsu?" One of the civilians asked. "I think so." Hyuga Hiashi answered. "His parents didn't have one." Inuzuka Tsume said. "It must be the Kyubi's doing." Nara Shikaku responds. At this, everyone bristles. Nothing more was said as the Ne came and surrounded him and then the Anbu surrounded them. The clan heads decided to back up and give them some space, but wanted to see what the boy could do. The civilians ran as fast and as far as they could to escape the imminent battle. Hiruzen Sarutobi versus Shimura Danzo. Alone now, both men began to size one another up and then in a burst of speed ran towards each other with speeds you wouldn't expect from men half their age. Hiruzen threw a jab at Danzo's head. Danzo turned slightly to the left as the punch missed and landed a punch on Sarutobi's chest. He retaliated with a punch to Danzo's stomach. Both men broke apart and held their hands a bit. "I see you came prepared, Danzo." Danzo removed his shirt revealing armor that covered his torso. "You as well, Saru." Sarutobi tossed away his Hokage robes and hat revealing his black jumpsuit with hidden armor plating underneath. He then summoned Enma, the Monkey King. "Hello, Saru. What's the trouble this time?" Enma asked only to receive a point in the opposite direction. "Ah, finally getting rid of the old war hawk? What's brought this change in policy?" Enma asked. Sarutobi answered with one word. "Naruto." Enma just smiled barring his fangs at Danzo. "Well, what are we waiting for? Henge! Kongonyoi!" That's all it took as Enma transformed into his black and yellow staff form as Sarutobi took him and did a few swings and spins. "Damn, I don't have a weapon capable of taking them on and the Sharingans won't be much use right now. I still haven't completely figured out that technique." Danzo thought quickly. Taking out a kunai, Danzo quickly threw it at the duo and then ran out a back door. After deflecting the kunai, Sarutobi ran after him closing the gap quickly. He threw Enma end over end at Danzo hitting him in his back breaking a few bones, but Danzo refused to lose so he spun his body taking a deep breath despite the pain and released a devastating wind attack, Futon. Shinkahou Wind Release Vacuum Wave Sarutobi quickly flashed the tiger hand seal and unleashed his own jutsu, Katon. Karyudan Fire Release Fire Dragon Flame Missile Those outside watching the battle with the root soldiers looked up when they heard the sound of glass breaking and quickly used shunshin or kawarimi to get out of the way of a large amount of falling glass. Sarutobi's flame met Danzo's wind and doubled in size and strength as it now flew at Danzo who cursed not being able to use any earth or wind jutsu in the building, so he tried to use a stronger wind jutsu. Flashing the dog hand seal after taking another deep breath, he expelled the technique, Futon. Shinkurenpa Wind Release Vacuum Serial Waves As several blades of wind shot at the incoming fire attack, the attack again changed direction and tripled in strength as the flames became white-hot melting almost everything in its path as it came back at the Hokage. Deciding two could play that game, Hiruzen did the tiger seal again and used half of his remaining chakra to boost the power and called out, "Katon! Karyudan!" This time, Danzo knew there was no way to cancel the jutsu so he tried to kawarimi with Sarutobi, but that failed. Looking outside, he saw the battle going on with his Ne so in order to save himself, he kawarimi'd with one of his own soldiers and got out of the way of the technique. After a few seconds of disorientation, the Ne soldier saw what was barreling down on him. He had one last thought, "Oh, sh IT." As the technique collided with him instantly incinerating him. The Hokage also decided to kawarimi with a root agent as the technique exploded and white-hot flames were coming back towards him. The Ne agent shared his former comrade's thoughts as he was also incinerated along with the walls in that corridor. Naruto was bored. ANBU had shown up and quickly surrounded the twenty ANBU agents, incapacitating most of them before he even took a step. So, he had just been standing around after deactivating his eyes. Then, the windows of the building the Hokage was in exploded, showering the area in the glass. Then, a few of the Root nin disappeared, only to be replaced by Danzo first and then the Hokage. Naruto walks over to the Hokage as the only two Root agents who had yet to be captured stood side by side with Danzo. "Tough fight, Hokage-san?" Naruto asked. "Yeah, it's been a while since these old bones have seen action, Naruto-kun. You just remember to enjoy your youth while you still have it." Sarutobi answered. Naruto laughs, but then focuses on Danzo and his two henchmen. The Yamanaka and Aburame clan heads gasped as they each recognized one of the men standing next to Danzo as former clan members who were believed to be dead. Hearing the commotion going on, a number of shinobi and villagers had come to investigate what was going on, including a group of soon-to-be genin. They all saw Naruto standing next to the Hokage and wondered what the dead last loser was doing there. Sasuke, though, was focused on one thing and one thing only, and that was Danzo's arm with the ten sharingan and his fully matured sharingan in his right eye. How could he possess those? Is he an Uchiha? No. I remember this was one of those council people my dad told me to watch out for before he died. "What's going on here?" He was drawn out of his thoughts when he heard Naruto. "Itchin, what is the dope doing there? He'll only get in the way." Sasuke thought. "Hokage-san, I think I have a technique that will help end this without any more bloodshed." Sarutobi looked at the boy skeptically, but decided to trust him. "Okay, Naruto, go ahead." Naruto did the tiger hand seal and held it as his eyes flashed orange once again. Then, he called out, "Kokuan'gyo no Jutsu!" Bringer of Darkness Technique. The Hokage, Danzo, and most of the older ninja were beyond shocked. "How the hell does he know how to do that jutsu? Only the First and Second Hokages could use that." Kurenai, who had arrived just as Naruto started to perform the jutsu, was drooling over the technique. "Maybe I can get him to teach it to me." She thought and then started to come up with ways to get it out of him. The younger ninja and civilians didn't see what the big deal was and deemed it weak like they believed Naruto to be except for Sasuke, who could literally feel the power used to perform the jutsu and knew he must have it. The Hokage quickly threw three kunai at Danzo, who used his sense of hearing to dodge them. "That's a pretty good genjutsu, kid. But how long can you keep this up?" Danzo asked. Naruto's response was to throw two kunai of his own, but these had exploding tags on them. Danzo and his tuna agents held their ground as they could hear the kunai coming and easily deflected them. But as soon as they did, they heard the sizzling sound like an exploding tag getting ready to go off. "Kuso!" The three called out as they tried to escape, but they were too late as the tags went off, exploding right in front of them. They were blown away a few feet, still alive but badly burned and injured. Naruto ended his darkness technique and the Hokage walked up to where Danzo was lying. Enma ended the transformation knowing the battle was over as Sarutobi took one of his ANBU's tanto and cut Danzo's head off. Enma just puffed back to the summon world after ruffling Naruto's hair a bit, knowing that despite their differences and all the evil the man had done, Sarutobi would take having to kill his childhood friend very hard. Some ANBU immediately came in and broke up the crowd as a few took custody of Fuu and Torune, being especially careful of Torune as they didn't want to be poisoned by his micro bugs. After breaking up the crowd and gathering the rest of the ANBU agents that hadn't been killed, they shunshined to the TI department, who would deal with the next step. The Yamanaka and Aburame head followed them. The road was empty now and it was just Naruto, the Hokage, and Danzo's body. Naruto walked up to the Hokage. "Will you be okay, Hokage-san?" Naruto asked as he watched the old man just stare at the body of his former friend and comrade. "I'll be fine, Naruto-kun. It's just hard seeing a former friend end up the way he did. I can't help but think back on things and question where it all went wrong." The Hokage took out a scroll and bent down then sealed Danzo's body and head away to be dealt with later. Standing up, Hiruzen noticed how late it was, but knew it would be a long night for him dealing with the aftermath of all that's happened. He turned to face Naruto. "Naruto-kun, it's late and I'm sure you are tired. Why don't you head home and get some sleep before your big day tomorrow?" "Hai, Hokage-san." Naruto said as he began to walk off. "Oh, and Naruto." Naruto turned around and looked at the old man, seeing the tiredness in his face as he seemed to grow new wrinkles every minute. "Come see me after team assignments as we need to talk. Oh, and is there anything you really want to learn from your genin sensei?" Naruto thought about it for a moment. "I guess I could use a good kenjutsu teacher the most as I have two swords, but I haven't been able to learn a real style yet, same with my taijutsu." "Okay, Naruto, I'll see what I can do. Good night." "Thanks, Hokage-san. Good night to you as well." Naruto walked off, leaving the old man to walk back to his office alone. "Well, this was a productive day." "Indeed it was, Naruto-kun, although I think you reveled a little too much about your abilities." "Hey, Kane-sensei, I was wondering when you would talk to me again. You were awfully quiet today. It didn't seem like you needed my help and you needed to concentrate." "Thanks for the vote of confidence. As for showing too much, it really doesn't matter. They would find out anyway and with Danzo gone, much of the threat in this village has been reduced." "Hey, don't let your guard down. For all you know, Danzo was nothing but a puppet. Plus, there is no way he was able to do whatever he did to his arm on his own. He had help and whoever it was is most likely still a threat." "You are right. Sorry, sensei. Still, at least for now, there's one less threat." "True, but I think your little display may have earned you a few more. I am glad that guy is out of the picture now because I sensed with more time, he may have found a way to be a major threat to you and me." Naruto just nodded as made it to his apartment complex. He entered finding no lights. "I guess this is a parting gift from that old fat [ __ ] who used to be my landlord. I guess I'll have to find the fuse box tomorrow and flip the switch." Naruto's eyes once again flared an orange color as he walked up the stair, avoiding a few traps and made his way to his apartment. Naruto didn't even stop for a glass of water as he headed straight for his bedroom and flopped down fully clothed on his bed. "Good night, Kane." "Good night, Naruto. Sleep well for tomorrow will most likely be another long day." "Is there any other kind?" Just then he remembered the kage bunshin he sent to practice the techniques from the scroll and dispelled them all, receiving their memories, instantly knocking him unconscious. Chapter 9 Naruto woke up with an hour to spare before he needed to be at the academy to meet his new sensei, with a headache. "Remind me never to dispel that many at once ever again." He thought. Taking a nice long, relaxing shower with his lemon-scented body wash helped to clear his head. "Eh, it isn't ramen, but it smells good enough." Then, he ate a nice hot meal that had been prepared by a clone while he showered. He had missed having a nice meal where he could take his time and relax the most during his five years in the Forest of Death. He mostly ate meat that he hunted and cooked using a makeshift spit and a Katon jutsu while being on the lookout for animals attracted by smell. He mostly ate meat in the forest with the only variety being the occasional bird or snake eggs he would stumble upon from time to time and his weekly visit to Ichiraku's in a henge, where he would gorge himself to help keep their business afloat. The Ichiraku's had been like family to Naruto when he was younger, but since his seventh birthday, he hadn't felt like that. He realized family was a precious thing and despite how kind they had been to him, the Ichiraku's weren't his family. He had stopped calling people nee-san and aa-san, aji-san, etc. for a simple smile in his direction as was his old habit. Oh, how he was counting the days until he could leave Konoha behind as nothing but an extremely bad memory. Now wasn't the time to think about that, though. Cycling through his memories from yesterday, he remembered the scroll he had the clone make of techniques he could use from the forbidden scroll. Retrieving it from where the clone hid it between the mattress and spring box of his bed, he looked over it and found two more clone techniques. Placing the scroll back in its hiding place, he thought of what he wanted to do today. He knew the Sandaime wanted to see him after team assignments, but that wasn't in his plans. Naruto, having seen the battle or at least the damage done by the battle between the Sandaime and that Danzo guy, made him want to get stronger even more. Training was going to be how he spent the day and most of the night as he had a ways to go before he could use most of the techniques in the scroll. So, after getting dressed and combing his hair then having a clone wrap black cloth in a spiraling fashion so it was one long ponytail that reached the middle of his back, he henge'd to the look people were comfortable with and set off to the Hokage tower after grabbing his clone-prepared lunch. *Hokage Tower, 10 minutes later* * Naruto had made it to the tower quickly using shunshin and made it up to the Hokage's office without any problems. The floor his office was on was strangely empty, so he knocked on the door. He heard, "Come in." So, he opened one side of the double doors and walked in. As he walked in, he noticed the room was packed and it was a struggle to make his way towards the Hokage, but he made it despite a few obstacles. "Oh, Naruto-kun, I thought you were someone else. I'm sorry, but you can't be here right now." The Hokage said while wondering where his former ANBU captain was. "No problem. I just came to get the meeting over with now and to show you something." Naruto said. "Hmm, I wonder what it is he has to show me. Well, that lazy Kakashi team isn't here yet, so I do have a few minutes to kill most likely. I understand, but you need to understand that should you fail to be here by 4:00 p.m., I will add a little time to our contract. Got it?" Naruto glared at the threat the Hokage made, while some of the Jonin chuckled hoping he was talking about jail time for his little stunt last night. He nodded though as the Hokage smiled triumphantly ignoring the daggers Naruto was shooting at him. "I am curious though about what it is you needed to show me." The old man began to sweat a bit as Naruto's glare turned to a smirk. "Oh, I just wanted to show you what you asked me to show you 5 years ago." The Hokage racked his brain trying to decipher the annoying code the boy, or perhaps young man, gave him. "Hmm, what happened 5 year? Could it be? Is he finally going to show himself?" Naruto's smirk only grew as he saw the light in the old man's eyes as he figured it out. Before he could say anything though, Naruto cut him off. "Yes, Hokage-san. I came here to show you how I've changed over the last 5 years, so you know before I head to the academy." The old man didn't even answer, just gestured for Naruto to do it. Taking a second, Naruto closed his eyes and then released all five layers of the minor genjutsu. He opened his eyes to find the old man and several female Jonin had fainted. "Hmm, curious." Naruto thought as he noticed the female Jonins were sporting a tiny bit of blood near their noses. It took a few minutes, but soon after everyone was back in their positions, they were staring at the blonde some unconsciously licking their lips. Naruto's time in the forest and his new diet plus a little help from a certain fox turned Naruto into a very desirable male. He now stood 5 ft 6 in tall, weighed 145 lb, his blonde hair now smooth and shining a bright gold as the ponytail stood out against the black cloth it was wrapped in. His still blue eyes were lighter and held a more icy appearance if he ever glared at you, and the muscles were noticeable even if most of his body was covered by his long-sleeved black t-shirt with a tiger on the back, black cargo-styled pants, and black civilian-style running shoes modified with a chakra conducing metal plating in the bottom and tip. What they couldn't see were his two summon tattoos and the 10 different seals he had placed on his body to both help his training and make him seem like an ordinary, as much as possible, genin. Then there were the two storage seals where in one he kept his two special swords and in the other seal stuff he wanted kept on his person. He couldn't use the swords right now or anytime soon, so in the meantime he had a standards on bō staff to his back that he would practice with to get used to the weight. After looking him over a few times, the Hokage gained a shocked look and then went back over his face. "What the hell happened to the whisker marks?" The Hokage was the first to stop staring a few minutes later as he sat back further in his chair, took out his pipe, and lit it as he smoked to calm his nerves before asking Naruto a question. "Should I take this as the work of the beast?" The room tensed up with this question except for Naruto who just smiled and answered, "Some of it, but most of it is due to the fact I finally gained a steady food source that was something other than ramen." The Hokage winced a little, but nodded and asked his next question. "What happened to your whisker marks?" Naruto laughed a bit before answering, "Well, they kind of stood out and made me an easily recognizable target, so the fox changed them into a different form elsewhere on my body that I can't say right now." The Hokage merely nodded agreeing now wasn't the time. Unfortunately, the several Kunoichi who fainted took this as a secret mission to discover the blonde Jinchuriki's secret and see him naked. "Okay, Naruto, I'll see you later." The Hokage said and Naruto nodded as he headed for the door, but this time with fewer obstacles though a few more on still decided to stick their legs out childishly as he tried to pass them. Naruto just smiled and gave each a swift kick ignoring their shouts of pain and anger as he walked out the door and headed for the academy. The Hokage just glared at the two men making a mental note to have them sent to Anko who had become even more vicious when anyone who harmed the formerly tiny blonde was unfortunate enough to be sent her way over the last 5 years. It became such an issue that she was banned from interrogation for a year, sent on dangerous mission after extremely dangerous mission by the council. She survived much to their disappointment, but they kept a closer eye on her actions. They had sorely crossed her limits when they bribed her with a promotion if she would befriend Naruto and then betray him by leaving him to the mobs on his seventh birthday. They didn't even do as they promised, only promoting her to Tokubetsu Jonin and not make her a full Jonin like they said they would. The council and many of its members had made a lifelong enemy of her as she vowed to make them pay. Sarutobi had to chuckle a little as he thought of what her reaction might be when she finds out what happened last night and who was responsible. "I only hope Naruto can learn to forgive her along with the rest of us." He sighed and then got back to business seeing Kakashi was finally present. He turned slightly to glare at Kakashi whose face was firmly planted in his favorite little orange book. "So good of you to join us, Kakashi. Now do us a favor and put away the porn." The last part was said with a large dose of KI directed towards the Jonin elite and former ANBU captain as Kakashi shakily secured the book in a pocket of his vest. Sarutobi smiled and continued, "As I am sure most of you are aware you are here to view the genin that will make up the squad you will take ownership of later today. Everyone except Naruto will be placed on a team today." Before anyone could even think on what that meant, Kakashi rushed up to the old man and slammed his hands on the desk. "What do you mean, Hokage-sama? I asked for and I thought was granted permission to train Uchiha Sasuke and Uzumaki Naruto." He said hoping his plans to train Sasuke while keeping the fox as weak as possible without hindering Sasuke's training was not in jeopardy. The Hokage looked at Kakashi impassively as he knew the real reason he wanted Naruto. "You are a real idiot, Hatake team. How you continue to disgrace your late sensei and his dying wish is disgusting. That was the plan, Jonin, until Naruto surprised me yesterday." Sarutobi was interrupted by another late entry he recognized. "What did the little gaki do now, Hokage-sama?" Anko asked from the back of the room. "Actually, he helped this village tremendously yesterday. First, he informed me of Mizuki's intentions. Then he informed me of a meeting he had recently with the Daimyo, which is why no one in this room will be his team's Jonin sensei. The Daimyo has seen to it that Naruto will team up with a couple of his guardian's sons because of how he has been treated up till now. That left me to find someone else to be the sensei for team number 11, and I think she will do a great job." Kakashi could do nothing but drop his head as his plan went up with a puff of smoke. "So then who will be the third member of my team, Hokage-sama?" Kakashi asked dejectedly. "I decided to move a Kunoichi who happens to be an orphan with good potential in ninjutsu onto your squad. Her name is Ami, but she will also receive training from Jonin Mitarashi Anko who will join your squad on missions out of the village." Kakashi nodded not really caring since his brilliant plans were ruined now. The Hokage stood up and motioned Anko forward as he handed her a Jonin vest. Anko was on the verge of crying, but held it in to ask a question. "H-H-How, Hokage-sama? Those icks sicks and tems on the council would never allow this." "No need to worry about them for now, Anko-chan. Naruto's visit to the Daimyo caused him to pass a few decrees that I agreed to. One of them being the disbanding of the council and execution of Shimura Danzo." All the Shinobi except Anko and the Hokage visibly paled wondering if they were next. Anko, however, jumped over the desk unintentionally flashing the old man and few Shinobi then hugged him breaking the mood. "Thank you, thank you, thank you, Hokage-sama. You won't regret this." She said as she released the man. The Hokage leaking a little blood and with a slight blush on his face merely waved her off. "It isn't me you should thank, but Naruto-kun. His visit set the Daimyo into action and you deserved that promotion a long time ago." Anko nodded and held her vest out in front of her. "I really should find a way to thank the little gaki." However, her smile slipped as she remembered he wanted nothing to do with her, but regained it quickly as she slid on the vest under her jacket. "I'll find a way to make you forgive me, gaki, and then I'll really make it up to you." She thought. The Hokage looked at the clock on his desk and noticed it was almost time for the roll to be called at the academy. "Okay, I called you all here so that you could view your soon-to-be students and get a good gauge on them before your meetings this afternoon." The Hokage secretly activated a few crystal balls so that everyone could gather around and watch. All except for Kakashi did so. "Maybe I can still make my plans come true. I'll just request joint training sessions and missions. Surely whoever they get to be his sensei won't mind if I take the boy off his her hands so that Sasuke becomes stronger." Thought Kakashi missing the dirty looks from Sarutobi. "I'll make sure he never gets a chance to harm you or mess with your training, Naruto-kun." Breaking from his thoughts, the Hokage turned to his crystal ball catching the banshee twins entering the classroom. Class 401, team assignment day. Naruto made it to the classroom without any problems and less glaring than usual. Of course, he didn't know that the Hokage had let a few, let's say talkative people know about what went on in the council room. His heritage was still an unconfirmed mystery to most, but hearing that something had finally been done about the council put a smile on everyone's faces. It did trouble Naruto when he recalled a few looks and winks thrown his way by a few women two or three times his age. Then, he recognized one of them from his darker days, but chalked up the attention to the fact they didn't recognize him without the hinge of his younger self up or his trademark whiskers. Taking his normal seat, Naruto realized the graduating class had yet to show up aside from himself and the Aburame clan heir who always quietly sat in front of him. It seems everyone was taking it easy today, not that he blamed them. Quickly activating his eyes with an orange flash, he constructed a genjutsu around him and the row he was sitting in that made it look like a pile of junk was in all three seats. Deactivating his eyes, he laid his head down on the desktop and closed his eyes listening as the graduates started to trickle in. There was a few minutes left and most of the group was seated and chatting with their friends. Iruka had come in and was seated at his desk staring at the area Naruto was sitting. Does he suspect something? Naruto wondered as the man kept staring in his direction. When I find the person who left all that junk there, I'll kill them. Now, I have to spend the rest of the day cleaning again. Iruka sighed as looked towards the clock. Iruka got up and was about to close the door, but just then two girls ran inside by side pushing and shoving each other arguing as usual. Iruka had enough of this over the past 3 years and would be damned if this is how he spent the last day. So, with a quick big head jutsu and threat Banshee twins sat on either side of Sasuke who cursed the fact his shield wasn't here to keep them at bay. I guess even the dobe had his uses, Sasuke thought before quickly dismissing it. Everyone was seated as Iruka looked at the clock and then the class and then the door. Naruto, where are you? Sighing, he started with a speech hoping he would show up soon. Okay, everyone. Since this will be the last I see most of you, I just want to address you with a short speech. Looking around, Iruka could see the excitement in the many smiling faces he saw. How I wish they could be like this forever. Breaking from his thoughts, he continued with his farewell welcome to the biz speech like he got when he graduated. You should all be very proud of yourself and know that you each have the ability to become great ninja. I can tell you will bring great pride and honor to your village and family because the moment you accepted your hitai-ate, you pledged not only your loyalty, but your life to protect every citizen of this village civilian and shinobi alike. Train with that thought in mind. Grow strong so you can protect those you love from all enemies and evil. Life isn't easy for us ninja. We move in the darkness that surrounds us and see many evils. We put ourselves in danger so that others will not have to so that those we care for and protect can sleep safely and never have to see the things we do. Cherish the friends and family you have and remember to keep in touch and renew the bonds you made as often as possible. And don't forget your old teacher Iruka, okay? He finished with a smile as he got applause for his speech. After looking over his desk, he picked up a scroll and turned to face everyone again. Now, I'll call out your team assignments. Please stay quiet so everyone can hear their name. Okay, team one is Iruka said. Naruto tuned this part out as he felt like someone was watching him. As he looked around the room, he caught the eyes of Hyuga Hinata as she continued to stare in his general direction. Can she see me? Cain told me if I used my eyes, even the Byakugan would be fooled by my genjutsu. Oh, well. I'll wait and see what she does. Naruto was saved as her name was called and Kiba bounded down to her and distracting her with his excitement of being on the same team, though she seemed to be ignoring him. Naruto was about to fall asleep when a piercing shriek tore through the classroom. Looking at the source, he saw Ino with her head down in defeat and Sakura plastering herself all over a very disgusted looking a second shriek was let out as it seemed the Hokage replaced him with another fan girl of the teams. Couldn't have happened to a better guy, Naruto thought as he watched Sasuke struggle to get out of Sakura's grasp. Then came an anguished cry from Ino that Naruto could only shake his head at. I bet they wish they could break the tradition their families have and team up with anyone else, Naruto thought. He turned his attention to Iruka once he heard team 11 as he knew that was his team's call number. Team 11 will be Uzumaki Naruto and his genin sensei will be Yugao Uzuki, Iruka says, but is interrupted before he could call out the remaining teams. It's just Naruto now, Iruka-san, Naruto called out as he dropped the genjutsu. Iruka and everyone else looked up to where the voice came from and were surprised that instead of junk now sat a tall blond kid with blue eyes in a clean row. And and Na- Naruto? Iruka asked shakily. Hi, Iruka-san, came Naruto's response that was loud enough to hear, but not too loud. This got different responses, the most vocal of which came from Kiba and the pink wonder. What's that loser doing here? They both stood and shouted. Naruto, who had put in his earplugs for insurance, just sat back like he heard nothing. The rest of the class wasn't so lucky. Iruka had recovered from the shock and saw Kiba stalking towards Naruto. Iruka sighed as he really hated to do this again, but it seemed he had no choice. So, doing his big head jutsu, he shouted, "Kiba, Sakura, sit down and shut up." Once again, the class was wincing and cursing the two loudmouths. Sakura immediately went to sit down, but forgot she was turned around facing Naruto and in her panic, she fell to the floor hitting the back of her head against the desk and then her jaw as her head rocked forward hitting the chair. The entire class including Sasuke, Shino, Hinata, Naruto, and Iruka burst out laughing as she pitifully laid on the floor too embarrassed to raise her head. "It's that demon's fault. My mom was right about him. I'll get my revenge," Sakura thought. Kiba, after rolling around the floor laughing, forgot what he was doing and returned to his original seat. "Thank Kami he's gone. Does he even know what a bath is?" Hinata thought. Iruka was finally able to finish up announcing the teams. Okay, everyone be back here in an hour to meet your senseis. Until then, you are dismissed. Iruka was about to leave since he no longer had a mess to deal with in the back row, but then decided against it and headed up to talk to Naruto. Most of the class had left except for Sasuke, Ino, Sakura, Kiba, Choji, Shikamaru, Shino, Ami, and Hinata. They stayed for different reasons. Ami, Ino, and Sakura stayed because Sasuke did. Sasuke stayed because he wanted answers from the blond about what went on yesterday. Shino, surprisingly, also had something he wanted to ask of the blond. Hinata was confused about something and had a few questions. Kiba stayed because Hinata did and he wanted to fight Naruto. Shikamaru was also interested as he noticed the genjutsu, but feigned sleeping and Choji stayed because Shikamaru did. Naruto sensed the eyes on him as well as Iruka coming towards him. "What can I do for you, Iruka-san?" Naruto said as he sat back in his chair. "First, I'd like to apologize again for how I've behaved towards you in the past," Iruka says humbly. "My response is the same as last night, Yūmeno-san. Forget about it, I have," Naruto replies. Iruka nodded and went to what he wanted to know. "Why have you dropped your last name?" Naruto thought for a moment before answering. "I have recently found out who my parents were." That got looks of surprise and intrigue out of everyone. "Let's just say I wasn't happy with what I found out, so I refuse to use that name. I know of other orphans that use only their first name, so I chose to do the same," Naruto says. Iruka could only nod. The answer got four different reactions. "He must really hate his family for some reason," thought the three fan girls. "How can he dishonor his ancestors like that?" came from Kiba and Sasuke. "Interesting," thought Shikamaru and Shino. "Poor Naruto-kun. I wonder what he found out," thought Hinata. "Okay, what's with the new look?" Iruka asked looking the black-clad teen over. "It's new to you because I've kept myself and my clones henge to look the way the villagers are comfortable with. As you can see though, I am taller and prefer to wear darker clothes while I do enjoy a little orange here and there," Naruto said as he stood up and showed he was in fact only an inch or two shorter than Iruka was. "Wow, I guess you hit a major growth spurt or something," Iruka said. Naruto just shrugged. While the four girls had one thought, "Hot." "Okay, one more and then I'm going to go eat somewhere," Naruto said as a black cloth-covered box suddenly appeared on the desk in front of him. "Okay, um how did you manage to become so strong despite no one teaching you anything?" Iruka asked. "Simple. I found someone willing to train me and show me what I needed when no one else would," Naruto replied. "I'd hate to think what my life would be like if you never agreed to teach me, sensei," Naruto thought to Cain. "I know, boy. Now, leave these fools before they try to get you to reveal more," Cain replied. Grabbing his lunch, Naruto stood up and made his way out of his row and down the aisles. But, just as he reached halfway down, a hand grabbed his left shoulder. Not even turning to look, Naruto says, "I am asking nicely, Uchiha-san. Please remove your hand so I can leave and enjoy my lunch." Sasuke just ignores him and says, "Tell me how to do that jutsu you used last night against that man with all the Sharingans and bandages on him. I also want to know what you know about that man." Naruto just looked at the offending hand. "That's what he did before my hand was set on fire," Kiba thought as he had flashbacks to what happened over 4 years ago. This time though, Naruto just jerked his shoulder forward out of Sasuke's grasp and continued to walk down the aisles. "Hey, come back here and tell Sasuke-kun what he wants to know, loser." shouted his three fangirls in surprising and deafening unity. He didn't even act like he heard them, mostly because he had quickly put the plugs in his ear and kept walking. Sasuke wasn't used to not getting his way since most of his clan had been wiped out leaving him as the only known possible holder of the Sharingan in the village. Everyone including the few remaining Uchiha had catered to his every whim. "Who is that dope to deny me?" was his only thought as he followed the blonde and in turn was followed by his fan club. Everyone else soon left to go do their own thing except for Kiba who turned to ask Hinata out only find she was gone. Outside the academy Naruto had found a nice spot away from most of his class under a tree. Looking at his bento, he uncovered it and lifted the top finding some of his favorites. There was some deer meat, chicken fried rice, shrimp ramen with a few shrimp, and taiyaki. He tapped on the side of the box where a seal was and instantly a cup of green tea was in his hand. Naruto took a sip of the tea and then resealed it and placed the top back on covering the bento up again. "What can I do for all of you?" he called out to the group watching him from their hiding places. Slowly Sasuke, Sakura, Ino, Ami, and a bit further away from them Hinata came into the clearing and made their way to stand in front of Naruto. Sasuke was doing his best to stare a hole through Naruto's head, but he got nothing in return so in frustration he tries to hit Naruto. Naruto just slides his torso slightly to the right and pulls his leg up as Sasuke off balance trips over it and falls to the ground. Before he could even hit the ground though, Naruto was up off the ground and stepping on the back of his head driving him even further into the ground. "Leave Sasuke-kun alone." his three cheerleaders called out as he kept pressing his foot on a flailing Sasuke's head. Only the pink one went to charge him and without moving Naruto landed a solid punch to her stomach as she bent over and dropped to her knees throwing up whatever small meal she had for breakfast. Still stepping on Sasuke's head, he addressed her as he looked down on the flailing preteen. "You are unfortunately now a kunoichi and a poor excuse for one. If you go to attack you will not be treated like a girl anymore, but a ninja who is trained to kill or worse they do treat you like a girl and rape you. The life of being a shinobi is not a game Sakura and if you continue to act like it is you will meet a grim fate. I suggest you all stop your ridiculous dieting and train more than you shop because an IWA nin wouldn't stop at one punch, they'd kill you or worse." Naruto said as he lifted his eyes to stare at the three girls. Of course, this only had an effect on two girls. "He's right, I've heard my father talk about how they used to torture kunoichis during the war. We don't do that now, but moms had to counsel kunoichi who have been through that recently at the hands of other villages who do." Ino thought. "Sakura's weak, but I'm not much better and I never want to look like she looks now." thought Ami. Both girls thought to take his advice and ask their mom or more experienced kunoichi for advice. Sakura had passed out from the pain shortly after the speech started so she hadn't heard a word. Receiving a nod from two of the worst fangirls, Naruto noticed the worst had passed out so not caring what happened to her merely focused on who had taken to clawing at the ground and his pants covered leg to get out from under him. "What I said to the girls goes double for you Uchiha. Your mere name may wet the panties of that corrupt council and all your little fans, but all it will do in the real world is make people want to kill you or steal your eyes before killing you. You don't run up demanding things of anyone when you haven't done [ __ ] to deserve it. This is your first warning Uchiha. I will never train you or give you anything. So the next time you see me either keep walking or exchange some meaningless pleasantries. If we happen to get stuck on a mission together, we will complete the mission to the best of our abilities and then go our separate ways. Is that clear?" Naruto said as he pressed down harder on the squirming boy. "Hi." said Sasuke weakly. Naruto took his foot off his head slowly and then stood aside as Sasuke stood up and walked off as the two awake fangirls did the same only Ino stopped to pick up Sakura and drag her back into the school to receive some help. Once again, Naruto found himself alone. Well, not quite. "So are you going to stand there and stare at me for the next 30 minutes or are you going to say what you want to say?" Naruto says as he turns to face the blue-haired girl who slowly walks up to him until she's face to face with him. "I want to know how you fooled my Byakugan with those clones." Hinata asks. "I guess I can answer that. The answer is in the clone technique I used Hyuga-san. It's a solid clone that contains half of my chakra. To you or any Hyuga who has never seen my full capacity, you would assume the clone was me as the only way to tell it's a clone is when you kill it and it puffs into smoke." Naruto replies and receives a nod from Hinata. Settling back down against the tree, the bento reappears on his lap as he uncovers it, but notices he is still not alone. Looking up at her, he asks, "Anything else I can help you with Hyuga-san?" Shaking her head, she goes around and sits on the opposite side of the tree he is and pulls out her bento as she begins to eat. Shrugging, he also digs in finishing just before the hour is up and makes his way back to the classroom with Hinata following close behind. "Weird girl." Naruto thinks as they head inside. Academy room 401 after lunch Naruto returned to his normal seat, but instead of joining her two teammates, Hinata sat beside him earning a few dirty and confused looks. Naruto wasn't sitting long now as a few minutes later in walked the senseis for team 11, team 10, team 8, and surprisingly both team 7 senseis were there. Of course, Kakashi was only on time because he wanted to set something up with whoever was Naruto's sensei. Yugao went first. "I'm Yuzuki Yugao here for Naruto." she says as he gets up and walks towards her. "I'm Sarutobi Asuma here for team 10." he states as Ino, Choji, and a reluctant Shikamaru stand up and walk towards him. "I'm Yuhi Kurenai here for team 8." Kurenai states as Hinata, Shino, and Kiba stand up and walk towards her. "I'm Mitarashi Anko and that's Hatake Kakashi." Anko says pointing at the silver-haired mask-wearing scarecrow as Sasuke, Ami, and Sakura stand up and walk towards her. When they all reached their senseis, each gave orders. "Naruto, follow me." Yugao says as she walks out of the room and he follows. "Team 10, follow me outside." Asuma says as he walks out the classroom towards the back of the academy followed by his team. "Team 8, follow me." Kurenai says as she leads her team towards the front of the academy. "Team 7, meet me on the roof." Kakashi says as he shoeshines to where Yugao and Naruto are. Anko meanwhile goes up to the roof with their genin. With Naruto and Yugao Naruto and Yugao had made it to the side of the academy and were sitting under two trees that faced each other and were fairly close together. They had barely gotten situated when Kakashi intruded. "Yugao, sorry for interrupting, but could I speak to you for a moment?" Kakashi asked. She looked over at Naruto who shrugged and stood back up walking a few feet away. "What can I help you with, senpai?" she asked. "I would like to request joint training session between your team and mine. You see with Naruto now a part of team 11 and the Hokage adding another fangirl type on my team, I'm afraid Sasuke won't be able to get enough from the training I want to put him through." he replies. "So what are you suggesting, Hatake-senpai?" she asks. "I'm suggesting that you focus on training the other two while I take Naruto off your hands and he helps me make Sasuke stronger. Plus, if he gets out of control, I can better handle him than you." Kakashi says sure she would agree. "That's a generous offer, senpai, but I think we'll be fine." she says in soft yet dangerous tone before continuing in a normal tone. "Naruto requested a kenjutsu teacher and aside from Hayate-kun, I'm the best there is. Plus, I don't think Naruto likes Sasuke very much. When I got here, I saw him attack Naruto and Naruto pretty much stepped on him like an ant. Maybe down the road we'll get a mission together and we can see about it then." Yugao walks back to where her student is done with the conversation. "Damn him, I can't believe he thought I'd go for that [ __ ] I was one of Naruto's original guardians and can tell he has nothing but bad intentions for Naruto." she thought. "Damn her. How dare she not help me make Sasuke stronger and help that demon. However, maybe I went about this the wrong way and I should go straight to the demon himself instead of his trainer." Sun shining away, he went to meet his team. Sitting down and forgetting about Kakashi's ambitions for now, Yugao looked her soon-to-be student over and began their introductions. "Hello, Naruto-kun. My name is Yuzuki Yugao. My specialty is kenjutsu, although I can help you in any area you may need help in except for fūinjutsu. Okay now, if you could tell me a little about yourself." she finishes and motions for him to start. "Okay, as I guess you know my name is no longer Uzumaki Naruto, it's just Naruto due to certain things I found out recently. I have no real specialty, but due to my chakra capacity, I guess most people would say I specialize in ninjutsu. I have learned over 20 and have learned how to use more than two different elements. I have intermediary sealing knowledge, can perform low-level genjutsu without my dōjutsu, and high-level ones with." Naruto was cut off before he could finish. "You have a dōjutsu?" Yugao asked. "Yes, it has abilities of both the Byakugan and Sharingan is all I can tell you." Naruto replies. "Does it have a name?" she asks. "Not yet. I I haven't thought about it. Naruto answers honestly. Okay, well, the Hokage informed me your teammates will be arriving sometime this week. So until then you and I will work on your Taijutsu and Kenjutsu. Although from what I saw of how you handled the Uchiha Gaki, your physical abilities are pretty good for your age. Naruto blushed a little at the praise, but then composed himself. Yuzuki sensei, I think before we go any further you need to know something. Naruto says gaining her attention. I do not care about advancing in the ranks much. My goal is to be able to defend myself and from what I've been told my future enemies are some of the strongest shinobi in the ninja world. I only know for sure of one person because they told me themselves. Uchiha Itachi told me one night that sometime in the future after I graduate, I don't know when, he and I will fight. He also warned me of a group of nin as strong and in some cases stronger than him that's after my constant companion. Naruto says as he points to his belly gaining a gasp from Yugao. So you see I need intense training. I've managed to get myself to Jonin level in ninjutsu, genjutsu, taijutsu, chakra control, and I've been told my chakra is at level 4.25 and growing. However, I know it's not good enough to face that type of enemy Itachi san was talking about. I just want to focus on Kenjutsu right now and improve everything else along the way while gaining some experience. Naruto says. Thank you for trusting me Naruto kun with that information. I promise to help you in any way possible. Yugao says with a smile. It was some time ago, but I still remember how you used to help and protect me. I am really glad the Hokage saw fit to allow me to be your Ashiego. Naruto replies also with a smile. I was just doing my job. Yugao says with a slight blush. Well, to someone like me where most people take pleasure in not doing their job. That meant a lot. Naruto says as Yugao nods. Normally this is where we'd part ways after I tried to psyche you out and tell you where to meet me tomorrow with your team for the real test. But your team and the Uchihas are being pushed through. Yugao says. Even with the council out of commission? Naruto asks. Even without them the public is still in love with the Uchiha name and the Hokage made it clear your team would be genins and take missions as soon as possible. So instead of giving you the standard genin cell test, I will be sparring against each of you individually to see where you need help and gauge your abilities. If you want we can do yours now. She replies. I would rather my teammates see what I can do so we can get to know each other better. I would like to spar a little with you though before I go see the Hokage. Naruto says. Yugao agrees and gets into a stance while Naruto deactivates all of his restrictive seals and grabs the zanbato on his back and positions it in front of him holding it with his right hand. Before they could start though Yugao stopped and walked towards Naruto. First lesson Naruto kun. Your stance is too flat footed. You need to find a stance that you are comfortable with and can move smoothly in that has your push off foot in front so you can move quicker to your attack or defense position. Yugao shows him what she means by getting him to try to move with his lead foot in the back, then parallel and finally in front of the other foot. Seeing she was right and the instant improvement he smiled. Thanks sensei. Yugao nodded and then got back in position. She noticed Naruto now put his right foot slightly out in front with the heel slightly elevated. He held his blade forward and waited as she took out what looked to be a wooden sword and then nodded at him. Naruto gave Yugao a small smile and then charged reaching her within seconds as he slashed at her with his sword. His speed is easily Jonin level, but it's clear that while he has some experience with a sword, he needs a lot of guidance. Yugao thought. Tapping the side of the large sword was enough to put Naruto off balance as she finished by hitting him in the stomach. Naruto bent over for a moment, but then stood back up to her shock. Um sensei, do you have another one of those wooden swords Naruto asks. Sure. I probably should have given this to you in the first place. Yugao says. She reaches into a pocket fishing out a scroll then unsealing another wooden sword and tossing it to Naruto. Placing the scroll back in the pocket she asks, ready? Naruto nods and they get back into their stances. This time Yugao attacks she runs until she is a few feet in front of him and then vanishes in a burst of speed suddenly appearing behind him. She turned her head to see Naruto on the ground again coughing up a little blood with a broken sword in his right hand. She quickly ran to his side. Are you okay Naruto kun? She asks. Asterisk cough asterisk I'll cough be fine. Naruto manages to squeeze out. What cough was that asterisk sensei? Naruto asks. That my Ashiego is the result of chakra flow, a Kenjutsu technique that I will teach you. Yugao answers. Naruto slowly stands and bows to Yugao. I think that's enough for today Naruto. Meet me tomorrow at training ground 27 at 8:00 a.m. and bring everything you think you might need for a 6-hour training session. If you're still standing maybe we'll try to do a mission. Yugao says. Sensei, I've been training 10 hours a day for the last 3 years. So do your worst. Naruto replies with a smirk. Unfortunately, when he saw Yugao's reaction he knew that was a mistake. I'm sure you'll enjoy every second Naruto kun. Yugao says with a grin on her face as she leaf shushines away. Naruto shook his head and admittedly happy at how things went and walked towards the Hokage tower. Hokage's office 20 minutes later. Naruto knocked on the office door and heard the customary enter from inside the room. Entering and taking a seat in front of the old man Naruto waited for him to start. Okay Naruto, I'd like to know about those eyes of yours. Sarutobi started. I kind figured. It's a combination of the Byakugan and the Sharingan. It doesn't have the range the Byakugan does nor the copying ability of the Sharingan. Oh, and I can change the color when I want to. Plus block the Sharingan's copying ability and cast genjutsu that can fool the Byakugan. Naruto says. That's an amazing dojutsu. Is it a bloodline ability? Hiruzen asked. It wasn't, but it will be whenever I have kids. Sarutobi nodded. You know Naruto kun, if you decide to stay and live in the village past the 3 years, you will have the ability to marry as many women as wish to marry you. The Hokage says. Tempting offer, but no. I wouldn't care if everyone got on their hands and knees and kissed my butt. In 2 years 355 and a half days I will leave this place and never look back. Naruto says earning a sigh from the old man. I really wish you would reconsider. I sent one of my best information people to find out about your mother and relay a message about what's happening. I'm sure now that Danzo is gone she'll be anxious to come back and meet her son. Sarutobi says. Not interested. I don't hate her, but she did what she did. There is no going back and nothing will keep me here. Naruto replies. Fine, that's all I wanted. The fire daimyo sent me a message and said that your two teammates would arrive within the next 3 days. The Hokage says and Naruto nods then gets up. Well, if that's all I have training to do. I do want to thank you thought for setting me up with Yuzuki senpai. I think we'll make a good team. Naruto says then walks out the door and shushines to area 44 hoping he can train in peace. I think it's time I read my father's letter. Naruto thought. Chapter 10. Naruto had finally read the letter. He was a little disappointed by it. There were no I made you a weapon to protect the village I loved more than you type stuff or any groveling and begging forgiveness type stuff. All the letter contained was a simple, I had to do what had to be done and I'm sorry. He did receive his two most powerful jutsus, but Naruto couldn't help but think there should have been so much more. Then again I guess there was before my so-called Kasan one took it all and ran out of town. Naruto concluded. Letting go of the negative stuff surrounding his parentage Naruto turned his attention to the gates as two boys about his height came through the north gate with a small army of men in fine robes carrying stuffed folders carefully as they headed towards the Hokage tower. Deciding to stop them before they reached the old man Naruto ran up and stood in front the two boys. Hi, my name is Naruto. Are you the two the daimyo sent to become shinobi? Naruto asked receiving a nod. Looking at the one on his left wore all black while the one on the right wore a dark blue color and both had large scrolls strapped to their backs. The trio started walked towards the tower again as an awkward silence settled in. So what are your names? Naruto asked breaking the silence. My name is Yasuwoto Yudai. Said the one in black who was a few inches shorter than Naruto. He had light brown hair, dark almost black eyes, and a pale complexion. My name is Osegowa Katsu. Said the one in blue who was an inch taller than Yudai. He had black hair, hazel eyes, and was also pale complexion. Hokage office. Naruto and the two guardians kids walked into the office to find the 10 accountants and two advisors of the daimyo talking with the only two accountants for the village the Hokage hadn't fired after disbanding the council and Nara Shikaku. The Hokage looked up from some documents he was going over with one of the daimyo's advisors and noticed the boys. Hello Naruto kun. I see you found your teammates. The Hokage states. Naruto nods in response. Okay, well normally I take the time to really get to know you boys, but I trust the daimyo's decision so I'll trust Naruto to help you get situated. I don't know if you already have your lodging figured out, but if you don't there are two rooms waiting for you at the four leaf inn just down the road. Unfortunately, we'll be stuck going through records and stuff for the next couple of days or more so there will be no missions until next week. However, if you need anything stop by anytime, okay? Sarutobi says, "Hi Hokage-sama, we'll be leaving now." Both boys say and Naruto leads them out. Training Ground 27, an hour later. Naruto had taken them to the hotel the Hokage mentioned. He was amazed by the opulence displayed on the inside of the place. It was easily the fanciest place Naruto had ever been allowed to enter. Naruto wondered why he had been allowed into the fancy building, but had no way of knowing since he'd never had need of a hotel that the owner liked Naruto. He and the other business owners had been alerted to the council being disbanded, so he could finally treat Naruto just like any other boy. Tokiro had even volunteered his hotel to house his teammates and the rest of the Daimyo's group. Now that he could kick out the councilmen who used their positions to hold rooms where they conducted some of their more illicit backroom deals, he had the space to do so. They had finally left the hotel and were now at the training grounds he and Yugao had staked out as belonging to their team. Upon arrival, he saw Yugao was already there looking like she had worked up a little sweat. Naruto wouldn't say it, but he really liked the way she looked after their training sessions. The way her shirt clings to her chest and mhm that time she wore shorts. No, bad Naruto. She's your sensei and a loyal Leaf ninja who is already spoken for. Three things we can't get involved with. Naruto thought sadly. "Hey Naruto, found your teammates I see." Yugao greets him with a smile. "Yeah, I think they're keepers, sensei." Naruto says as the two boys grinned. "This is Hasegawa Katsu." Naruto says pointing to the one in blue. "Yuzuki-sensei, it is an honor to meet you." Katsu says with a bow which Yugao returned. "And this is Yasumoto Yudai." Naruto says pointing to the one in black. "Yuzuki-sensei, I hope to learn a lot from you in these next 3 years." Yudai says with a bow which Yugao also returns. "Hi, I'm happy to meet both of you. Now Naruto-kun already knows this, but your team has been pushed through. So instead of testing you tomorrow at 8:00 a.m., we will have a spar. First, the three of you will spar against each other in 5-minute intervals. Then you will spar against me for 5 minutes. Once I gauge where you are in terms of ability, we will begin our training. Is there anything you two would like to learn?" Yugao asks Katsu and Yudai. "We both would like to learn ninjutsu and kenjutsu." Katsu answered for both of them. Yugao nodded. "I imagine you two are tired from your journey, so you can go back to your hotel if you want and rest up for tomorrow." Yugao says as both boys nod and then go back the way they came. Yugao turns towards Naruto. "Do you want to train, Naruto-kun, or go home?" She asks. "Train, of course, sensei." Naruto says as he drops his seals to one. "Why do you even bother with those things if you have to deactivate or lower them every time we train?" Yugao asks. "I've gotten a lot stronger because of them. I only lower them with you because if I didn't you'd kill me in our spars." Naruto says with a mock glare. Yugao just grins. "Whatever, gaki. If I recall our first meeting, you specifically asked me not to take it easy on you." She responds. Naruto doesn't respond, just smiles and takes his stance as Yugao copies him and the spar begins. 1 month later. It has been a month since Naruto met his new sensei. A few days later his teammates arrived and they were slowly getting to know each other. When they went through their evaluations, they showed a considerable amount of skill enough that the Hokage who had been watching decided he wanted Team 11 out in the field immediately, but demanded they complete 10 D-ranks before the Chunin Exams which were in 5 months, so they had plenty of time. They had completed their first D-rank mission a few days after their evaluations. It was a simple maintenance mission that could have been done by ambitious kids or civilians looking for side work, but no, the owner wanted to show off that she could hire ninja. Naruto made sure to stay away from the lady who, while still attractive, was easily in her mid to late 40s. For once, the problem wasn't due to an issue with the fox. The lady was desperate for companionship and had tried to trap Naruto a few times before they could finish the job of cutting her lawn and getting rid of weeds with a promise of hiring them again and a wink sent towards him. His teammates, or cellmates as he liked to refer to them, hadn't let him hear the end of it yet and while he hadn't done most of the pranks the villagers accredited to him during his academy years, there were a few he thought might get them to shut up. They had completed three more since and Yugao was convinced they were bonding. Team 11 was heading to the Hokage's office for their first C-rank. This would be Naruto's first time seeing the old man since his team evaluations. Hokage's office. Team 11 entered the office and saw Umino Iruka going through some documents. "Hokage-sama, Team 11 reporting for our first C-rank mission, sir." Yugao called out as the Hokage and Iruka raised their heads to look at the team, Naruto in particular. "Ah, yes, Team 11, nice work with Ms. Ashiwari. She practically raved about all of you, especially you, Naruto." Both of his teammates snickered at that as did Yugao. Naruto was seething internally, but wouldn't let this get to him. Showing no emotion, Naruto steps forward and replies, "I'm glad she appreciated our hard work, Hokage-san." Naruto stepped back saying no more. Sarutobi motioned Iruka forward and gave him a scroll with some instructions. Iruka walked over to Team 11 and gave the scroll to Yugao who unfurled it and read, "Your mission, Team 11, is to wipe out a group of bandits near our border with the former Yugakure. They have been harassing potential clients and disrupting a nearby village. Your orders are to capture or eliminate them and do not let them flee back to Suna. If they do, you are to do nothing but observe until such time as they cross back into Fire Country or are deemed unlikely to return. Any questions?" The Hokage asked. "Yes. Do you know how many bandits there are, Hokage-sama?" Yugao asks. "It's a small group, about 10 or 15. Anything else?" The Hokage answers and asks, but receives only shakes of the head. "Okay then, dismissed." He says as they leave the office. "Hokage-sama, do you think it's wise to have such a new group go on a mission like this?" Iruka asks. "Relax, Umino, it's only a few bandits. I assure you everything will be fine." Sarutobi answers. "Then why do I have a bad feeling?" Iruka thought warily. Front Gates, 30 minutes later. Naruto, after packing everything he felt he might need into a storage scroll that was in his storage seal on his forearm, arrived at the gate first. He was surprised to find not his teammates or sensei, but Hinata and she wasn't wearing the big bulky jacket she usually wore. "Hello, Hyuga-san. How are you today?" Naruto asked. "Fine, thanks, Naruto-kun." Hinata replies looking him in the eyes. "Waiting for your team?" Naruto asks. "No." was her reply. "Oh, waiting on someone?" Naruto asks. All he got was a nod. "Well then, I hope they won't keep you waiting too long." Naruto says as he goes to stand at the other side of the gate, breaking their eye contact. "Who says they have?" Hinata questions as she follows. "Hinata, I thought we settled this." Naruto says realizing where this was going. "No. You said you couldn't be with me, but wouldn't answer me as to why." Hinata replies as she moves closer leaving barely an inch between them. Naruto looks down into her eyes. "Fine then, I will explain, but not today." Naruto replies harshly. "Fine then, the day after you return, I will come to your apartment." She says with conviction and strength to which Naruto nods. Hinata smiles and before he can move away, embraces Naruto and kisses him on the lips. Breaking the kiss, she giggles at his stunned look and walks away slowly. Naruto watches her leave without another word spoken. He noticed the extra bit of shake in her hips as she walked away, but tore his eyes away. "What the hell has happened to her? Before all she did was follow me around like a cute little mouse, but ever since I stopped using the hinge technique to hide myself, she and other females have been very aggressive towards me." Naruto thought remembering his team's first mission and other incidents when he ventured out of his apartment building. Naruto couldn't help it when his eyes betrayed him and watched again as Hinata walked out of sight. "What you just staring at?" Someone said close behind him. Naruto jumped and instantly unsheathed his sword, bring it around on whomever intruded on his space. Clang, the clang of metal caused him to lift his eyes to find the brown eyes of none other than his sensei. Immediately sheathing his sword, Naruto says, "Gomen, sensei, but you really shouldn't sneak up on a guy like that." "Well, Naruto, I've never known you to be caught off guard until now. Care to tell me exactly what got your attention?" Yugao asked knowing full well what he was staring at. "I got to admit though that Hyuga girl has some body on her." She thought. Naruto noticed his two teammates had also joined them and were ogling the Hyuga heiress's shapely behind. He couldn't stop from letting out a growl at that, which didn't go unnoticed by his teammates or sensei who turned their eyes on him. "What?" Naruto asked. "You know, Naruto, if you let yourself be happy for a change, you two would make a good couple." Yugao states. She and Kurenai had secretly been working on the Hyuga girl's confidence for well over a year. However, it wasn't until the last month that she had made major progress. They hoped if they could get the two together, the girl would blossom and become the great kunoichi they thought she could be and her family always says she wouldn't. "Sensei, I know that, but you also know why that can't be. I'll just end up hurting her." Naruto says softly looking down. Gently lifting his chin with her fingers and looking in his eyes, which always slightly hypnotized her, Yugao says. Naruto, I know why you think that, but we're ninja. It's an extremely tough and dangerous career that can end in a moment. As a ninja, you learn how precious each moment is and how happiness isn't guaranteed to anyone. So, when you find it, take it and don't worry about how long it lasts. Just give her a chance to choose for herself, okay? Now, cheer up and get your mind right. You don't want to mess up on your first mission outside of the village, do you? Yugao says releasing the blonde's chin. You're right, sensei. Thanks for the talk. I'm ready to go. Naruto replies with a small smile. After an equipment check, team 11 signed out with the guards and headed out towards where the bandits were sighted. There was little to no chatter as they jumped through the trees from branch to branch at high chunin level speeds since Naruto and Yugao had to slow down for their other two teammates. Still, they were making good time and it would only take a few more days before they reached the border town of Cherry, too. Next day, bar somewhere in Fire Country. A red-headed woman about 5 ft 5 in 166 cm tall with dark purple {slash} violet eyes was sitting at the counter drinking her second shot of vodka. Most people would say it was too early for such hard alcohol, but she didn't care. She had lost everything that mattered to her even though she knew exactly where her precious was. However, she knew if she stepped anywhere near him, they would be killed. She was incredibly strong, but not an army. Her late husband had that kind of strength and she was by his side during many such victories. She was just too tired and uncertain to keep fighting alone. But, she had used her time to rest and most importantly get stronger. She just wasn't ready yet to reclaim what they took from her and every day that passed left her with less hope, which drove her to drink. How long can I expect my baby to hold out? I'll do it soon. I just need a little more time. She thought as she gulped down more of the vile liquor to chase away the thoughts of what he must be enduring. Meanwhile, a Konoha shinobi entered the bar. Hey, Taiki. The bartender called out. Hey, Show. Is Miyu here? Taiki asked. You know she takes Tuesdays off to visit her family in River Country. Show replies. Damn, I forgot. Taiki says. The way you stalk the girl, I'm surprised you don't have her every word written down somewhere. The bartender says as he places a glass in front of Taiki and pours him some sake. I'm not that bad. Taiki replies as he sits down and takes the glass. Now, I guess not compared to some of her other admirers. Still, you travel all the way here from Konoha almost every week to see her for the last year she's worked here. I myself don't understand it when you are in a village full of those beautiful kunoichi like the Ice Queen or that snake lady. Show replies. True, Konoha does have a number of hot chicks, but none of them match Miyu. Plus, I don't have to worry about losing the family jewels when I talk to her. He replies remembering a few run-ins he'd had with some of the kunoichi he knew. So, what happened to you? I haven't seen you here in a while. Even Miyu noticed. The bartender says. Really? Did she ask about me? Taiki asked excitedly. She did ask if I'd seen you once. Show answers. Taiki was in heaven. Maybe I should disappear more often. He thought. So, where you been? The bartender asked again getting his attention. Well, things have been a little crazy in Konoha, so I've been pretty busy. Taiki replied. What happened? The bartender asked intrigued. Well, I guess it's not a secret. The Hokage was finally able to get rid of that wretched council. What? Both men heard a slightly demonic yet feminine voice shout to the side of them. Suddenly, Taiki found himself hoisted up in the air and struggling for breath. The council was disbanded. Are you sure? The woman shouted as she shook the man. Lady, you need to calm down. He can't answer you until you put him down and give him some air. The bartender said trying to calm the situation down. Recognizing the bartender was right, she dropped the Konoha nin on his ass. Ow, Taiki called out as he struggled to catch his breath. Once he did and stood up, Taiki answered her. Look, lady, I don't know what that was about, but I said the council is no more and was about to say Shimura Danzo was publicly executed. Taiki said rubbing his neck. The bastard's dead. He's finally dead. Ha ha ha. The red-headed woman dissolved into a fit of laughs before she realized, I can get my baby back now. No more waiting. Yay. She unwittingly said out loud before running outside the bar in a blur towards Konoha. The two men left at the bar could only stare in disbelief. What do you think that was about, Taiki? Show asked his eyes not leaving the spot the woman once stood. No clue. He answered downing his drink. So, got any more photos of Miyu I can buy? Taiki asked. Meanwhile, in Konoha. Sarutobi was looking over dossiers for potential members of the new council. He had managed to get rid of the daimyo's accountants and advisers with as little damage as possible to Konoha's bank account. Now, he was choosing his council because he really needed help to get through all the damn paperwork. This time around there would only be five civilians while clans would make up the council and five more seats taken by advisers. He was going to enact laws that made it tougher to declare your family a clan. That was to make sure certain trash like the Harunos that had been calling themselves a clan wouldn't be able to slip in on some technicality. Of course, some exceptions would be made even if they didn't meet some or all of the requirements anymore. Like a certain thought to be extinct clan of a former Hokage. Thinking of his former successor, he also gained a smile at how he was able to enact the changes to the academy the Yondaime was going to before his untimely demise. It would mean there wouldn't be any graduates next year, but the rewards would be worth it and it would be another achievement of his though he would be sure the originator of the plan would get due credit. It also meant he had to have more teams pass this year. But, with Naruto's situation, he had only had to pass one more team although he wished he could have found three more worthy to be a team. Still, I pushed the requirements down enough letting those three fan girls pass. Sarutobi thought. Getting back to his work, his thoughts turned to the blonde he thought of as a grandson. However, as soon as he did, the cup holding his tea cracked and poured over some of his paperwork. That can't be good. Sarutobi thought. He was broken from his thoughts though as his grandson came running and tripping over his scarf followed by his private tutor Ebisu. Why did I make that man Konohamaru's Jashin 3? He thought as the pair argued obviously forgetting they just barged into his office. Next day, Cherry Town. Yugao, Naruto, Katsu, and Yudai stood in front of the entrance for the little town. Walking through the town, the place seemed deserted. All the buildings are covered in dust with windows and doors open. If you look inside, you would see nothing but bare rooms and walls covered in even more dust. After walking for a few minutes, they see the town hall. Entering the building, they found no one and the place was stripped bare just like the ones they saw coming in. Weird, they all thought. They left and walked into a few more buildings finding the same thing. They walked back into the middle of town. Listen up, guys. Yugao says getting their attention. It's obvious the clients and possibly the town folks have been abducted, so we're going to scout the surrounding area and see if we can find the group responsible. Naruto, think you can create a few shadow clones to help with the search. Yugao asks. Actually, sensei, I have a better idea. Naruto says receiving questioning looks. Naruto rolled up the sleeve covering his left arm up to the shoulder revealing a tattoo of a large black bird with a blood red outline and eyes. The wings of the bird wrapped around his bicep. Naruto pricked his thumb with a kunai and wiped the blood on the tattoo as he sent chakra through it. A cloud of smoke erupted and as it dissipated, a large black bird with a bald head and neck and red eyes was staring at them. How may I be of assistance, Naruto-kun? The bird asked shocking Yugao, Katsu, and Yudai. I need you to scan the area for a group of humans, Hatcheru, and allow me to use your eyes. Naruto answers. Shwa. Hatcheru says and extending its large wings exposing the white patches on the underside of its wings as it begins to flap its wings strongly creating gusts of winds that force team 11 to send chakra to their feet to hold on. Once up in the air, they can see Hatcheru glide out of sight as Naruto does a string of hand seals stopping on vulture and calling out, Monako no Condor Jutsu. I have the condor technique. The rest of the team watched as his eyes turned milky white like a Hyuga's and he seemed to zone out. A few minutes later, Naruto's eyes turned to their normal shade of ice blue. Okay, Hatcheru has spotted their camp. It's 2 miles northeast of here and it looks like they have a lot of hostages, but they seemed all right. Naruto informs his team. Naruto, what was that jutsu? Yugao asks. Oh, well, I have two summon contracts. One is the legendary tiger contract and the other the ancient condor and vulture contract. That was one of my condor summons and that jutsu allows me to see what they see. Naruto says. Yugao is stunned as are Katsu and Yudai. Where did you get summon contracts like those? Yudai asked. Well, due to people hating me for what I hold inside me, I often spent a lot of time in the forests, especially the forest in area 44. I developed a friendship with the tigers in that area after I shared my meals with them and saved them from a few hunters and other dangers. One day, they allowed me to sign their contract, why I don't know. Although I think it has something to do with my love of orange. The vulture condor contract I just kind of stumbled upon. Naruto replies, Yugao and the boys could only groan at the absurdity of that statement, but knew if anyone could have that kind of luck it was Naruto so they dropped it. Hachiru takes that moment to land in front of Naruto, who gently pats the condor's head and then takes out a scroll and unseals two rabbits that he tosses to Hachiru. Catching the rabbits in its beak, Hachiru bows to Naruto and then puffs back to its world. Team 11 without another word ran north as fast as Katsu and Yudai could go. I think they've gotten a little faster trying to keep up with me and Yugao. Naruto thought. They reached the bandits camp in 7 minutes and stayed on the perimeter. They separate with Naruto moving around to the south side of the camp so when they made their move he could cut them off from heading to wind country. Yugao stayed at the north end and Yudai went west while Katsu took the eastern portion of the camp. Clipping her calm device above her ear, Yugao cut it on and spoke into it. "Everyone in position?" Yugao asked. "I'm set in the north." Naruto chimed. "I'm set in the west." Yudai replies. "I'm set in the east." Katsu says. "Does anyone have a view of the targets?" Yugao asks. "No. It seems these guys have mixed themselves with their captives." Naruto answers. "Okay team then relax, we have a long way to head of us. But keep aware of your surroundings and what's happening with the group. We'll wait until they head into their tents and strike after midnight." Yugao orders. "Hi sensei." The three boys answer. It was after midnight and the men they believed responsible in deeds separated themselves from the large group and headed into tents as soon as it was dark out. They counted 10 in all, but that didn't mean there weren't more hiding among the captives. Yugao decided it was time and used her communicator to start the operation. "Okay boys, it's time start. Advance to the tent nearest your position as quietly as you can and try to take care of them quickly." There were eight tents, but Naruto's sector actually held three tents while everyone except for Kenta had at least two. So Katsu's job was to take care of the tent in his area fast and get the townspeople back to Cherry quickly while searching for any bandits that may be among them. With Katsu. Katsu crept up to the tent and decided that he would make an entrance instead of going through the front flap. Luckily the tent was bottomless so all he had to do was lift up the bottom and slide in. Upon entry he saw his targets both asleep on the same bed. Smiling at his luck, Katsu cautiously and quietly walked towards the bed of the closest target. Unfortunately he paused as he tried to steel himself for what he was supposed to do next. It was at that moment his target opened their eyes and began to scream. But before the man could get out more than an H, Katsu stabbed him in the throat. Stunned he could only watch as the man struggled as blood poured out of his neck and mouth as he drowned in his own blood. That is when his partner woke up and seeing Katsu standing over his bleeding to death partner quickly drew a knife and threw it at him. Luckily for Katsu he was able to block it with his forearm bringing him out of his trance. Taking the knife out gently, Katsu managed to throw it back at his other pajama clad target and hit him in his chest but not deeply or accurately enough to do more than wound the man. Quickly jumping in the air, Katsu managed to land on the man and quickly kick him in the chin dazing him. Dropping down so his knees impacted his stomach knocking the wind out of his opponent, Katsu did some hand seals and placed his hands on the man's head as softly called out his jutsu ran. Denkeiyashi lightning release lightning palm A surge of lightning chakra flowed surrounded his palms giving them a bluish white glow as it shocked the man into unconsciousness. Katsu could have pumped more chakra into the technique and killed the man but he didn't want to alert any enemies that might have sensed it. So taking a deep breath, Katsu found the kunai he used earlier to kill the first man and stabbed the second man through his heart. Taking the kunai he wipes it off on the man's pajama top and then puts it back in his pocket as he runs outside towards the captives. With Yudai. Meanwhile, Yudai had reached his second tent. The first tent in his area was empty. Sneaking into the second tent, Yudai found one man asleep. It was easy to do, he just crept over, took out a kunai and quickly slit his throat before the man could even open his eyes. He bled out without so much as a struggle though Yudai noticed afterwards a girl curled up in a ball being bled on by the oaf he just cut. Getting over his discomfort over his first kill he walked over to the other side of the bed and got her up from out under her apparent rapist and on her feet. He had to blush when he noticed she was naked silently cursing his victim as he noted the girl couldn't be more than a few years older than him. She had the slim figure of a civilian girl so he knew she must be from Cherry. Taking out a scroll he unsealed a pair of pants and a shirt for her then turned around to let her get dressed. She tapped his shoulders when she was done and they left the tent as quickly as the girl could move. They quickly caught up to Katsu and the girl ran to catch up with a friend in the mob of civilians headed for the deserted Cherry town. "Have any trouble Katsu?" Yudai asked seeing the blood on his arm. "A little but nothing I couldn't handle." Katsu replied as they walked behind the large group. "How many did you take out?" Katsu asked. "I only ran into one and he was asleep." Yudai says. "Lucky you, there two in my one tent and I was too slow getting to the second. But I took him down with that raiton technique Yugao sensei showed me." Katsu says. "Speaking of Yugao sensei, have you heard from either of them?" Yudai asks. "No. The comms have been silent." Katsu replies. Just then the earth shakes and they can hear what sounds like multiple explosions from where the camp was. "Maybe we should go help them?" Katsu asks eyes wide. "Now we'd only get in their way. Naruto's only gotten stronger in the last month and we definitely don't have to worry about sensei." Yudai says. "You're right you. Still I'm kind of jealous. That must be some battle going on." With Yugao. Yugao was somewhat bored. She had finished the two tents in her area with little trouble. There was one man in each tent and they were little more thugs that she quickly took out like the Anbu she was quick and clean leaving no trace she'd even been there. Instead of heading to the rendezvous point she decided to check on Naruto. She really didn't agree with leaving him the most tents but she trusted Sandiame-sama's intel. Naruto could handle more than his share of bandits and thugs. However ever since they were handed this mission she couldn't help but think something was wrong. So going with the motto better safe than sorry she decided to check up on her favorite blonde. Just as she thought the earth started shaking and it sounded like multiple explosions went off. The pressurized wave of air bore down on her forcing her to anchor to the ground using her chakra. I got to hurry and save Naru-kun. Yugao thought as she sped off into what looked like a disaster zone as tents and everything in the tents went flying about. With Naruto. Naruto was crouching down in the grass out of sight of the tents. He created 12 shadow clones and in groups of four had them surround the tents front, back, and both sides covered by a clone. Naruto flared his chakra giving the signal to his clones as each one threw a kunai as hard as they could and once it pierced the tent called out shuriken kage bunshin no jutsu shuriken shadow clone technique The bunshins put enough chakra into the technique to create nine extra copies each meaning there 10 kunais coming in from all sides of the tents. Naruto flared his chakra again and all 12 bunshin ran into the tents a second later Naruto pushed a lot of chakra through each bunshin performing bunshin daibakuha great cone explosion. The explosions rocked the campsite sending out a pressurized wave of wind knocked everything back or over and causing the ground to shake. Naruto stayed crouched down as the cloud of dust and falling debris slowly filtered out. A lone silhouette came into view as the dust settled down. Clapping was heard and the figure stepped forward revealing a woman who stood 5 feet 4 inches, 165 cm, looked to weigh 100 lb. Give or take a few, had honey brown hair amber eyes and looked to be in her mid to late 30s. "That was very impressive whoever you are. Would my would-be assassin care to step into the light and allow me to see him?" Naruto didn't know why but he obliged the woman and walked towards her stopping when they were 20 feet apart. "I'm impressed. You managed to survive my combo attack and without so much as a scratch it seems. Mind if I ask how you survived my attack?" Naruto asked. "Ah, what fun would it be if I just told you. But I'll give you a hint. I took two earth defense jutsus and combined them." She replies. Naruto gives a nod. "So why are you doing this? I think I saw a few of your men raping a couple of girls while I was waiting to attack. Shouldn't you be against such actions?" Naruto asked. "It's not something I want to do kid and these aren't people I want to work with but that's life. I do what I must and work with what I got." She replies. "May I ask your name?" Naruto says. "Chinatsu, yours?" She replies. "Name's Naruto." He says. "You wouldn't consider letting me go, would you Naruto?" Chinatsu asks. "No, but you could surrender and save us both some trouble." Naruto replies. "Sorry kid, I got places I still want to see before I die." The talking stopped as they both took their stances. Katon goryuka no jutsu fire release great dragon fire technique Naruto calls as he flashes the tiger hand seal and concentrates on manipulating the flame. Chinatsu manages to dodge the attack and unleashes one of her own. Futon Atsugai, wind release, pressure damage. She called out forming the ram hand seal. Suddenly the wind started picking up on and formed a tornado. Naruto was having trouble staying on the ground. Wow, this is a powerful technique. I wonder if I can learn it. Naruto thought. Chinatsu sent the technique at him and Naruto knew he couldn't avoid it. So he used a defensive technique. Going through the hand seals he ox with his right and tiger with his left placing ox above the tiger hand seal and called out. Doton Doryu Heki, earth release, earth style wall. Naruto finishes and wall of earth shoots up and protects him from the worst of the wind jutsu. But also leaves him blind. Taking the opportunity Chinatsu to mold wind chakra around her into a blade and wait for the wall to come down. A minute later the wall crumbled and fell to the ground leaving Naruto wide open. Taking the opportunity Chinatsu called out the jutsu. Kaze no Yaiba, wind sword. Chinatsu says as the blades of wind flew at Naruto. Having no time to perform a jutsu to defend himself Naruto quickly unsheathed his katana and channeled wind chakra through it. He didn't even get into a stance just swung the bland vertically so the chakra flew through the air and cut into Chinatsu's wind blade attack. However, her jutsu easily defeated his attack cutting him deeply. But before she could celebrate Naruto disappeared in a puff of smoke. Where is he? She thought as she looked around wildly. Unfortunately, she doesn't sense anything until it is too late. Doton Shinju Zanshu no jutsu, earth release. Double suicide decapitation technique. Naruto performs the technique catching Chinatsu off guard as he grabs her ankles and pulls her beneath the ground until just her head is sticking out. Tunneling away from her Naruto pops up a small distance away just as Yugao enters the battlefield and notices Chinatsu. I see everything is under control here. Do you need me to finish up Naruto kun? Yugao asked. I'm okay sensei, if I need you I'll flare my chakra. Naruto says. All right, but hurry up. We'll stay in Cherry tonight and leave in the morning. Yugao says. Naruto gives a nod and Yugao takes off to catch up with the boys. Naruto slowly walks to where Chinatsu is struggling to get out of the ground. I guess you win kid. She says tiredly. Egessido. Naruto says solemnly. Hegaki. If you didn't blow it up there should be a scroll with a few techniques I scribbled down over the years you might be interested in somewhere. She informs him. Thank you. I'll do my best to learn and master each one. Naruto says. I only ask that you dig my body out of here once you kill me and take the money that's in a seal on my right breast in the shape of a rose tattoo and send it to my sister in Sunagakure. Her name is Eri Himitsu. She says and Naruto nods. Just make it quick, please. She finishes and closes her eyes. Taking his katana Naruto channels wind chakra into it and finished the job then did what she asked. Looking around he found the scroll under a piece of wood. Feeling tired Naruto headed back to town. Next day Cherry. It was 10:00 a.m. and team 11 was headed out after having a nice hot shower and breakfast with the mayor. Soon after team 11 left Cherry to the cheers of the townsfolk with assigned mission order and their payment. Yuzuki sensei, can we take it slow on our way back? Yudai asked not wanting to rush like they did on their way to Cherry. Sure, if the others don't object. She says. Yudai just shrugs. But secretly wanted to take it easy as well. Everyone looked at Naruto who sighed. As long as I can get in a little training, fine. I got nothing to rush home for. Naruto replies. Yudai and Kenta celebrate internally as they get to relax for the first time since their arrival in Konoha. Naruto. Have you thought about what you were going to say to Hinata? Yugao asks as the other two boys listen in. Tell her the truth. I can't be with her. He says. Yugao sighs. Fine. I give up Naruto, but please be gentle with her and explain why. Also, if you could get some cinnamon rolls or red bean soup for her it might help as they're her favorite food. Yugao tells him to which he nods. You're missing out on a great girl Naruto who would do anything for you. Yugao says as she turns away from him and continues walking down the street. I know sensei. Believe me, I know. Naruto thinks as he follows her with his teammates close behind. Chapter 11. 3 months later. Teams 4, 7, 8, 10, and 11 were all standing in the Hokage's office. Everyone was wondering why they were all there at the same time. In the meantime each group was talking amongst themselves until the Hokage walked in. He calmly took his seat and then looked at the assembled group. I've called you all here because every year we have one joint mission that involves rookie genin to promote teamwork and relationships that will serve you well during your time as shinobi. Unfortunately, last year's group never got to experience that due to a few unfortunate incidents. The Hokage started. Naruto noticed two of the jonin lowered their heads. In order to make up for what happened last year this year's group is larger than normal. Therefore, I am giving you a higher ranked mission. Sarutobi said. He took notice of the shocked faces of everyone in the room except for team 11. I expected as much. Team 11 is the only team with experience in tougher missions. He only meant for them to do C ranked missions that dealt with bandits, thugs, and eventually low ranked missing-nin. Instead, a few of their missions had turned into B and one A rank due to them fighting several B ranked missing-nin like Chinatsu Himitsu who was B ranked. Mostly Yugao took out the higher ranked missing-nin since they only came upon more than one B ranked missing-nin once. That time she let Naruto deal with one of the B ranks and even Yudai and Kenta got in the act dealing with the C or lower ranked missing-nin and thugs while she took out three jonin level missing-nin who questioned her skill due to her being a woman. Team 11 is certainly powerful. I have no doubt all three will attain chunin rank during the upcoming exam. I only hope when the other teams see how they work and their level of skill it might inspire them to improve or at least give them a measuring stick of sorts. I know their senseis have most likely decided they would put them in the exams this year regardless. But most of them are not ready and Sasuke is unsuitable to be a chunin due to his issues. Although, if he can get past the second part of the exam, I am sure he would put forth a good showing. Hiruzen thought. Hokage sama, Kakashi called out getting the old man's attention. All right. The mission is initially being listed as a C rank due to the client being low on funds. He has pledged to pay the difference of an A rank when his village gets back on its feet. The mission difficulty is easily B if not A rank. Your primary job is to protect Tazuna, a bridge builder, and his family while he builds his bridge. Your secondary mission is to take out Gato of Gato Industries Incorporated, his thugs, and anyone else he hires if they are unwilling to stand down. Sarutobi states. Hokage sama, you mean shipping magnate Gato? Anko asked. Hi, the very same. His illegal businesses are encroaching on fire country and his control of wave gives him access to shipping lanes that can [ __ ] our economy if he isn't dealt with soon. He finished. The jonins nodded in understanding. I warn you wave country isn't a pretty place right now because of Gato's illegal practices and you genin will see things that will change your view of the world. So prepare for the worst. Sarutobi says. Everyone nods understanding the warning. Sarutobi pressed a button on his intercom and spoke. Please send in Tazuna. He said to his secretary whose name escaped him. A minute later a man that looked to be in his late 50s or early 60s walked in the office. He was slightly overweight with a beer gut and looked to be drunk. And he was still drinking. What a lush. I am glad this is a joint mission because it's going to take more than one team to keep this guy alive. Naruto thought. Is this hiccup what you are sending to hiccup defend me? This looks more hiccup like a group preparing for a field trip hiccup to the petting zoo than a group that's hiccup going to protect me with their lives. Tazuna says drunkenly. He quickly took another swig of his cheap alcohol. Almost everyone just ignored the old drunk and turned to the Hokage except for Kakashi who had to restrain Sakura from hitting the client. Kakashi leaned down and whispered to the girl so as not to draw any more attention. Stop it Sakura. This is pathetic and unprofessional. You don't see anyone else acting like you. He said as he let go of her and she fell down to the floor. When she looked back up she saw no one coming to help as they continued on like she wasn't even there. Only Tazuna looked at her or more like looked down on her. She really felt small and pathetic now as she looked around at the rest of her classmates as even Ino and Ami seemed beyond her now. Then she looked at Naruto. It's his fault. He should be the idiot on the floor while me and Sasuke kun laugh at him. She thought. Then she looked at her teammates. Sensei doesn't even care if I come to training or not and he hasn't taught me anything. Sasuke kun hasn't agreed to go on a date with me and even said I wasn't worth his time one day after training. Her thoughts paused as she looked at Ami, her once fellow fan girl. She acts like she doesn't even like Sasuke kun anymore and is always sweaty and her hair is so unkempt. She's always going off with that Anko lady in training. At least she realizes that she can't possibly measure up to being worthy of Sasuke and knows when she's beat. Sakura thought a smile on her face as she stood back up. Meanwhile, with everyone else, the Hokage was close to killing a certain mask-wearing Jonin. "But Hokage-sama, I'm a much better choice for leader of this mission." Kakashi practically whined. "Why would that be, Hatake?" Sarutobi asked. "I'm more experienced than her, and my team, especially Sasuke, is the best of the rookies, so I should take point." He tries to reason. At that, everyone, including Tazuna, who just met everyone and was nearly unconscious because he was so drunk, laughed. Ami wanted to kill her so-called official sensei at this moment, while Sakura was confused about why everyone was laughing, as in her opinion, her sensei stated the truth. The laughter stopped as the Hokage spoke to him in a calm, even tone, though you could almost feel the agitation beneath it. "Drop it, Kakashi. These are your orders. Yugao is group leader, Asuma is second in command, Kurenai third, Anko fourth, Mimura Hamaki fifth, Naruto sixth, and then if all of the above are incapacitated or separated from the group, then you are the leader." Hiruzen stated with a gleam in his eye when he mentioned Naruto being slotted ahead of him. "This has got to be some joke. You expect me to take orders from that dope." Sasuke stated, pointing at Naruto, who just ignored both of the male members of Squad Seven. "Yes, I do, and if you have a problem with that, then you are more than welcome to turn this mission down. There are more than enough teams present as is. But if you decide to accept and don't listen to him," Sarutobi paused, letting the tension rise. "Then I will strip you of your rank, and you will cease to be a shinobi." He finished, glaring at the boy. Sasuke paled at the threat and quickly nodded. Since the council was disbanded and reformed, Sasuke no longer got his way everywhere he went. The only people who did still treat him like he thought an elite Uchiha should be treated were his remaining family, fangirls, and Kakashi. He'd had quite a few knocks to his ego since then. Like when Ami beat him in a spar, and when he demanded Anko teach him and drop the loser. Well, that didn't go well. Especially since Anko had begun to think of Ami like a little sister. Although Ami refused to dress like her onee-chan wanted. Unfortunately, whenever it seemed like he was close to realizing the world didn't revolve around him, Sakura, or Kakashi, or his remaining family would build him back up, locking in the elite mentality. Suddenly, a shriek got everyone's attention and had them covering their ears. "What? You can't do that. Sasuke-kun is the best. Much better than Naruto baka." Sakura yelled. Before she could screech any more, Naruto took out a roll of duct tape, cut a strip, and slapped it on her mouth before going back to where he was standing. Before she could rip the tape off, Sarutobi glared at the girl with a little KI. "Listen here, Miss Haruno. You will learn to control that mouth, or you will find yourself dropped from service as well. Naruto is sixth in command. That means you and the rest of the Genin will listen to him if the situation calls for it. Otherwise, he is a fellow Genin and not to be harassed in any way, or he has permission to retaliate in any manner he sees fit. Also, his team will only receive orders from Yugao-san. The rest of you will listen to all the Jonin and obey any orders they give you." Sarutobi orders, and everyone nods in acceptance, including a shaking, still taped-up Sakura. "Okay, your mission will commence at 8:00 a.m., and everyone better be on time." Sarutobi says, looking at Kakashi. He receives another round of nods. "Okay, everyone except Naruto dismissed, and Tazuna, I suggest you use tonight to sober up. Client or not, I won't guarantee your safety if you show up tomorrow drunk." He finishes, and Tazuna just waves him off and walks out, followed by everyone else. "What can I help you with, Hokage-san?" Naruto asked when the room was cleared. "Have you thought about the council's proposal?" Sarutobi asked. "Yeah, the answer is no, and it will never change. In 3 years, me and my Kekkei Genkai's are leaving, and I will not leave innocent children behind in this hateful village." Naruto replied. "Naruto, I think the villagers have done their best to show they are sorry." Hiruzen states. "He's right, a few have even got down on their knees and kissed my feet a few times begging for forgiveness." Naruto thought. "Wow, so for a few months of relative peace and a little unwanted groveling, I should forgive over a decade of abuse, beatings, torture, murder attempts, murders, if only for a minute or two, poisonings, rapes, and other forms of things that happened to me under your watch?" Naruto asked incredulously. Sarutobi just blanched at every charge, knowing they were true and more. Hell, lesser men have snapped from just one or two of those things happening to them or someone they love. Sarutobi thought. "Fine, but I pray one day you will forgive us and her." Sarutobi says. Naruto just stands there, not replying. "I'll get to why I asked you to stay. I realize this will be your first mission outside of Fire Country. I need to ask that you keep our agreement and your heritage a secret, and to only use that chakra if you are in trouble." Sarutobi says. "I make no promises, but I assure you I won't go around indiscriminately broadcasting it, and I won't go around using it unless I need to for the time being." Naruto says as he walks out of the office and back to his still unfinished complex. Next day, 7:50 a.m. Everyone was at the gate, including a grumpy Tazuna, who was suffering from withdrawal symptoms after not having any sake except for Naruto. Despite the fact he wasn't late, Team Seven and Tazuna were becoming impatient. The rest were looking at Kakashi in disbelief that not only was he on time for once, but early. 10 minutes later, Naruto showed up with a different look. Naruto was wearing a forest green shirt that had two black columns with green leaves seemingly falling down them, a kelly green Jonin-style vest, forest green Anbu-style pants, and brown civilian-style running shoes with the chakra-conducive metal in the bottoms and tip of the shoes. He also had a single katana strapped to his back and his hair wrapped in black silk. Naruto looked at the assembled group, taking notice of the aggravated looks the client and Team Seven were giving him, and what he now recognized as lustful stares from a few of the ladies present, but he didn't care. "Okay, now that everyone is here, let's head out." Kakashi said, giving Naruto a small glare. "Actually, first order of business is an equipment check." Yugao said. "Everyone take out your packs and show me what you are bringing with you." Yugao ordered. One by one, all the Genin took off their packs and showed what they were bringing on the mission. Only Ino and Sakura had to be given an extra pack, which they grumbled about having to carry as they looked for someone to pawn it off on. Yugao then turned to her own team, but instead of packs, they each pulled out scrolls and showed her they were carrying a store's worth of clothes, weapons, food, and other items. "You each remember to keep a few kunai and shuriken on you, right?" Yugao asked. "Hai, sensei." "Naruto finally got around to putting the seals on our vest and clothes after our last mission." Katsu answered. Kurenai took that moment to enter the conversation. "What are you talking about, and where is your equipment?" She asked in a commanding tone. "We're fine, Kurenai-chan. Naruto taught the other two how to make their own sealing scrolls and tattoos. They're extremely convenient when you need to haul a lot of stuff, but don't want to be weighted down." Yugao explained. Kurenai nodded and walked back to her team. Yugao turned and walked with her team to the front of the unusually large gathering. "Okay, everyone, I know this an unusual situation having more than one team on a single C-ranked mission, but we need to get along. To that end, I welcome all of you to come to me with complaints, suggestions, and ideas. I will not tolerate any mean-spirited or derisive comments directed at anyone in this group. So, please behave and let's show Tazuna-san here what Leaf shinobi are all about. Now, I want my team up front, and the rest of you to fill in behind them, while the Jonin will stay behind you and support you if needed. Tazuna, feel free to choose a Genin bodyguard and stick by them, please." Yugao orders. Tazuna didn't waste any time and moved beside Naruto. "I don't know what it is, but something about this blond kid tells me he'll keep me safe." Tazuna thought. "Okay, Naruto, you know what to do." Yugao says. Naruto nods and forms his favorite seal, and without even calling the name, five more Narutos appear and then take off into the trees. Katsu, Yudai, and Naruto, with a quickly following Tazuna, walked through the gates. Soon after, the other Genin walked behind them with the Jonin following them. A mile or so down the road, the group settled into a comfortable pace. The group was mostly quiet, except for a few. Katsu and Yudai were talking to each other, Kiba was trying to start a conversation with all of the young kunoichi, failing miserably as even Hinata ignored him. Sakura had moved up to the front after being harshly turned down by Sasuke and was engaging Tazuna in meaningless chatter. Ino and Ami were talking to each other, and the Jonin were in their own conversation, mainly about one Genin. "I hope you will allow me to train Naruto during the time our teams are together, Yugao-chan." Kakashi states more than asks. "It's not up to me. You will have to ask Naruto himself if he wants to." Yugao replied. "Yugao, you're his sensei. You are supposed to be setting the rules and telling him what to do." Kurenai chides, butting in. "Kurenai, Naruto is arguably one of the best teammates I've ever had. He listens to whatever I tell him, but being a mindless drone would be the worst thing possible for him. He's young, but has a good mind and has shown talent equal to Itachi at a similar age." Yugao says, gaining shocked looks from Asuma, Hamaki, and Kurenai. Kakashi just ignored her statement altogether, believing Sasuke was the best. "When we do team training, Katsu and Yudai have to team up to spar with him. I'm the one he usually spars with, and he can even hold his own against me in kenjutsu for 5 minutes. Did you know he could have legitimately requested to skip being a genin and be appointed as a jonin? Yugao asks. He can't be that strong. Kakashi says. Well, how about we let him and the genin handle whatever foe or foes we face first? Yugao proposes. Sure, but if it looks like for even a second they can't handle it, then I'm stepping in. I can't let Sasuke get hurt. Kakashi replies. Are Sasuke and porn all he thinks about? The other jonin thought shaking their heads. Now you see what I have to deal with on a daily basis. Anko says glaring at the silver-haired pervert. She gained nods of sympathy from the four other senseis. The group had walked a couple of miles at what felt like a snail's pace to Naruto. But their job was to protect Tazuna, so outside of carrying the man, which he wasn't willing to do, there was little to be done about their current pace. As Naruto was growing bored with everything one of his clones popped out of existence giving him the information. Naruto didn't even go through the pretense of using hand seals as he molded the correct amount of chakra and a kage bunshin appeared right in front of him shocking all the genin who noticed. The bunshin instantly ran off into the forest. The genin that noticed tried to question him, but Naruto just took out a scroll, started reading it silently, and kept walking. The rest of the group minus team 11 bristled at being brushed off like that, but kept walking. 8:00 p.m. The group had made it to the halfway point and surprisingly or unsurprisingly, depending on who you were, it wasn't Tazuna who collapsed forcing them to stop. No, that honor went to Ino and Sakura, but seeing as it was dark out, they all stopped anyway. They were close to the sea separating the island of wave from the mainland. Setting up camp, all the teams separated the duties needed to set up their individual camps. Tazuna chose to stay with team 11 and camp out with them. Naruto had sent a few clones to get some water from a nearby lake, while he and his teammates set up their tents along with Yugao. Naruto set up an extra tent for Tazuna, although he complained about theirs being nicer than his since it was a regular tent. Team 11's tents were made of a thick dark material that could withstand a knife strike. The floor of the tents is leather covered by a black plush carpet. They didn't even need sleeping bags, just sheets and pillows. They each had silk sheets with big fluffy comforters and goose down pillows. The reason for such luxury was team 11 frequently slept outdoors many nights due to the various C and occasional B ranked missions they took. They each built up a nice bank account due to the money they received for completing such missions and spent the money on luxury items like the tents, sheets, comforters, pillows, etc. that would make missions more bearable. Needless to say, the other teams were jealous and seeing their looks, team 11 proceeded to the second part that accompanied setting up their tents, which was enacting several barrier, protection, and silencing seals so they could sleep without concern. The seals were attuned to their chakra, so they didn't need to worry about anyone or anything getting in while they weren't looking or them being kept out as well. Only the other members of team 11 could enter the tents. Naruto could already see a few of the girls, Sakura, Ino, and surprisingly Hinata, rushing towards his tent intent on claiming it for their own use. I wouldn't do that if I were you. Naruto called out. They of course ignored him intent on enjoying such luxuries themselves and damning him to stop them or throw them out when they did get in. When they got too close to the tent, the seals activated. Well, they didn't appreciate being sent flying into the nearest tree. Sakura and Ino turned to curse at Naruto only to find he wasn't even there to laugh at them and neither was Hinata who managed to stop before hitting the barrier. They tried a few more times meeting with the same results before they limped back to their own tents. Naruto had walked away to the sea and out onto the water as he looked up at the moon. You can come out now. Naruto says without looking away from the moon. Hinata made her way out of the tree line and onto the water. She walked up beside him and looked up at the moon as well. What was that about back there? Naruto asked. She knew he meant the tent and replied, Can't blame a girl for trying. They both laughed and then returned to their peaceful moon gazing. Naruto took his eyes off the moon to look over at his friend. You have shown yourself to be a strong and beautiful woman, Hinata. Since you've dropped your mask of shyness, Naruto tells her. Hinata turns to face him looking into those beautiful clear blue eyes that always made her want to melt. I wish it were something as simple as a mask, Naruto-kun. Hinata replies almost in a whisper as her gaze dropped. Naruto decided to change the subject noticing the sadness in her voice. So, were you intending to kick me out into the cold like those other two? Naruto asked teasingly. Hinata blushed, but quickly lost it and then seemingly vanished until Naruto felt her breast pressed against his back as she stood on her toes to whisper into his ear. And who said I was going to kick you out? It was Naruto's turn to blush at that as she walked around him until she was in front of him again, eyes locked. They looked into each other's eyes almost searching deeply within the other until Naruto suddenly looked away. He had seen the deep love that was welling up inside of her for him and he knew he had to tell her. Hinata was confused and saddened by the fact he looked away. She had never known Naruto to do that to anyone even if he was badly hurt. He always if only defiantly looked the person in their eyes. Hinata, about the other night when we were supposed to have our talk, Naruto started. Hinata remembered that night. She heard that team 11 was returning from a successful C ranked mission. Not that the people she overheard talking about it were doing so in a positive manner, and she had gone to the gate on the day they were supposed to arrive back in town. Team 11 had made great time finishing a C turn B rank mission in 5 days. She would have missed them reentering the village if she hadn't forced herself to wake up early and skipped breakfast with her father and sister, no big loss, to be there as the team passed through the gate. She smiled brightly at Naruto and moved to his side as they walked towards the Hokage tower. They talked about nothing important until team 11 reached the Hokage's office, and she had to wait outside for them to deliver their report. She retook her position by Naruto's side when they left half an hour later as she tried to talk to him, but he didn't really seem to be listening to her. When they got close to his apartment, she noticed him freeze and lock eyes in front of him. Hinata looked to where he looked and saw a somewhat tall red-haired woman with dark purple eyes who also seemed to be frozen. Naruto only broke out of his daze to address Hinata asking her to postpone their talk for another time. She reluctantly agreed and looked at the woman again before leaving even though part of her was demanding answers and wanted to refuse his request. It's okay, Naruto-kun. I knew it must have been important for you to break our agreement, Hinata replied. So, who was she? Hinata asked after a few seconds of silence. She is my mother, Naruto answers. Mother? I thought you were an orphan. Hinata questioned. It's not something I want to talk about right now. Naruto says turning to look at the moon again. Okay, Hinata replies stuttering for the first time in months. Gah. Every time I get near him, my mouth and body betray me. I need to calm down and just ask him before it's too late, Hinata thinks. Taking a couple of deep breaths, Hinata grabs Naruto's hands and looks deep into his eyes. Naruto-kun, I love you so much. Why can't we be together? Hinata asks him giving him a teary-eyed look. Naruto stood there and studied the girl. No young woman in front of him. Naruto sighed. She probably won't accept what I tell her, but she has to know the truth, Naruto thought. There are many reasons, unfortunately, Hinata. None of which are about me not liking you enough or finding you unattractive, because I think you're beautiful. Like I said earlier, you're becoming a beautiful and strong woman with each passing day. It's just you're a Hyuga for one thing. Naruto says gaining a deep blush from the heiress before it changes to a confused look. What does me being a Hyuga have to do with anything? Hinata asks. Naruto decided to walk back to land with Hinata following close behind waiting for an answer. Once they reached the shore, Naruto started, I hate your clan, Hinata. Naruto says simply. Hinata stood there frozen, the shock and pain clearly written on her face. Hinata asks, her old self reappearing at his declaration. I know you are one of the few our age who know of my constant companion, Naruto says. Hinata nods and says, Why why is I heard my father talking about why you one day. I don't think of the QB as a burden anymore, but since the day I was born, the council, including the clan heads, have been trying to have me killed or under their thumb. Your father and clan are prominent among them. Where some clans calmed down and saw the truth of the situation, others, including your father, have continued to persecute me. They have gone so far as to accuse, charge, and convict me of stuff I didn't do in the hopes of getting me executed, Naruto rants. Hinata gasps at that information, but otherwise stays silent head down thinking over what he said. Now, if that were all it was, I would simply hate your father. Thanks to QB, I can separate the man from his actions or the actions of another. I hate your clan as a whole because they have been a part of the fox hunts and abuse I've suffered, even the branch members who you would think would know about suffering behind a seal, but not you who has never done as much as raise your voice even when I've done something wrong, Naruto continues. I I I am sorry for the abuse you suffered at the hands of my f- family. Hinata began to apologize, but was stopped. "Stop, Hinata. It's a nice gesture, but it is not your place to apologize for the sins of others. You have done nothing I need to forgive." Naruto tells her. "Then, why can't we be together?" Hinata asks, looking into his eyes. "Because, Hinata, I made an agreement with the daimyo, Hokage, and council that they get my services for 3 years, and then I get to leave." Naruto informs her. "What?" Hinata yells, surprising Naruto who's never heard her be that loud about anything. "Why you can't? What I love you, Naruto-kun." Hinata declared louder than Naruto ever heard her speak. "Thank you, Hinata. That means a lot to me, but I have to go. I hate the Leaf Village. I have a strong dislike for my stupid father and his self-sacrificing ways, and I hate the people of the Leaf minus a mere handful that don't deserve my hatred of them. I have to go, Hinata, before that hate turns me into the very monster they tried so hard to make me. In 3 years, I will turn my back on the Leaf, never to return, and I could never ask you to leave your family for me, because I know that despite everything they've done to you and how they make you feel, you still love and cherish them." Naruto tells her. Hinata just crumpled into him and cried knowing he spoke the truth. Naruto tried to comfort her the best he could, but never receiving such comfort himself that he remembers. He could only hold her, which was enough for Hinata who hadn't even received that since her mother died. A few minutes later, Hinata looked up at Naruto with tear-filled eyes and asked, "Please, and Naruto-kun, don't leave me." Naruto looked at the girl in his arms and sincerely wished things were different, but they weren't. "I'm sorry, Hinata-chan. I don't know what I did to deserve such love from a beautiful and kind person like you, but I have to leave. I can't love you like you deserve to be loved, because it will only hurt you more in the end. I'm sorry, Hinata, but I promise I will always be your friend even if I'm a million miles away and do my best to help you while I'm here. Besides, I bet you'll find a great guy who will love you with all of his heart one day, and you won't even remember me." Naruto says with a smile. Hinata wipes her tears away and just presses further into his chest. "You're wrong, Naruto-kun. You'll always be the only man for me, but I understand and promise to be a good friend that you can trust." Hinata says softly. Naruto gives her a bright smile that makes Hinata melt and want to stay in his arms forever, but such bliss wasn't meant to be. Their teams were probably already searching for them, so they needed to get back. Secret base somewhere in Wave Country. "What do you mean you haven't killed the bridge builder yet?" A squat but well-dressed man yelled. "Just what I said, Gato. The man is still alive and headed this way." Said a very tall, dark-haired man that had his face wrapped in bandages and a sword almost as long as he was tall strapped to his back. "What are you going to do to rectify this situation?" Gato asked angrily. "There's nothing I can do for now." The tall, bandaged man replies. "What?" "Why?" The little man shouted. "The reason is simple. You waited too late to hire me and my group." The man responds. "Look, Haku, Zabuza, I paid you a lot of money to get this done, and I expect results." Gato sneers. "And you'll get them, but thanks to your haggling over the price, the old man was able to make it to the Leaf Village where he hired ninja protection. Now, normally, this wouldn't be too much of an issue, especially since you said the bridge builder probably only had enough money to hire a team of genin and their jonin sensei. However, Tazuna must have got one hell of a discount as my subordinates counted five teams and six jonin among them. I'm good, but even using all of your little henchmen, I would still need to call in a few favors to get the job done, which means I need more cash and time." Zabuza says firmly. "Unacceptable. I've paid you, and I expect you to do what I paid you for." Gato says angrily. "Look, if money is so important to you, then why not wait until after they finish the bridge? The Leaf nin will go home, then I sneak in, take out the old man, and we blow up the bridge. This way, you get what you want, I get what I want, and more importantly, my team survives to see another payday." Zabuza replies questioningly. "Look, you just leave the thinking to your betters, Demon of the Mist, because you obviously don't understand the situation and why this needs to be done now, not after the bridge is built. If that were the case, I wouldn't have wasted my money and sent my thugs to do it." Gato says condescendingly with air quotes as he says Demon of the Mist. "Then, make me understand, little man." Zabuza says, losing his patience with the portly man. Gato is close to tearing his hair out in frustration, but decides to oblige the much taller missing nin. "I have spent a lot of time and money destroying the spirit and mind of these people until they were nothing but whimpering dogs who won't challenge my authority on anything. They were so close to breaking before that old bridge builder gave them hope with his silly idea of reconnecting with the mainland to circumvent me. If Tazuna dies before his bridge can be built, then all hope dies with him. But if the bridge is finished, even if Tazuna dies and the bridge is destroyed, they'll still have hope that they can do it again. Hope that will lead to them defying me again and setting back my plans to conquer Wave Country before I move on to to other countries ripe for the picking. So, you see, I can't afford for them to grow a backbone, and I can't afford for Tazuna to finish this bridge." Gato says, finishing his lecture. Zabuza, for his part, just nodded at the little man and rubbed his chin for a moment. "Okay, I understand why this is so important to you, but that doesn't change the fact there are 21 headed this way, and that hope you want to crush will only grow if me and my team get our asses killed in some half-assed attempt at an assassination. Trust me, I've already had it happen to me once." Zabuza says, glaring at the little man. "Fine." Gato shouts. "Get whoever you need to finish this, and I'll pay the cost. But hear me, Zabuza, if that bridge is finished before the bridge builder is dead, then our deal is off, and you'll have to deal with your help on your own." Gato says, trying to stare a hole through the man. Zabuza nods and disappears in a puff of smoke as the little man scurries out of the building cursing with his lackeys in tow. "Mark my words, Zabuza. You will regret this." Gato thought. Unbeknownst to the two, a puff of smoke went off in the warehouse they met at, signaling our hero to their plans. At the campsite. Naruto and Hinata arrived back at the campsite just in time for dinner as Hinata joined Naruto's team and ate a clone-prepared meal of steak, flavored rice, and melon pan. In her mind, this was their first date as she just wasn't prepared to let go despite what she told Naruto. Naruto was in the middle of cleaning up when his two clones from earlier dispelled, informing him of everything they learned. He quickly went to Yugao who was in her tent reading and told her what his clones found out. Yugao quickly gathered the other jonin and let them know before gathering the genin to explain what was going on. She had Naruto tell them what his clones overheard. As soon as he was finished, there were a million questions. "How did the dope happen to hear this when he was with us the whole time?" Sasuke questioned. "My clones are shadow clones, which work well for gathering intelligence as the user learns what the clones learn when they dispel. When we started this trip, I had five of them surround us as they moved through the trees looking out for any danger. They came across two shady-looking men about 5 miles away from Konoha who were setting a trap of some kind. However, when the men saw how many of us there were, they canceled the rather weak-looking genjutsu-covered trap and observed us until we got close to the river. At that point, they walked across the river to Nami no Kuni where they met up with their leader, a man named Zabuza, and another person who may or may not be a missing nin who later met up with Gato who I assume is their employer." Naruto says, laying the whole thing out. "How did you know it was a trap that used genjutsu?" Kurenai asked. "They made it look like a big puddle was in the middle of the road." Naruto answered. "A puddle in the dry spell we've had. If I ever meet the two idiots who tarnish the good name of genjutsu, I'll castrate them." Kurenai thought with an evil smirk that made Naruto a little nervous. He didn't have time to think about it, though, as another question was fired at him from Asuma this time. "You said they water walked to Wave? How did your clones follow them, then?" Asuma questioned. "When I created that clone while we were walking, it took over following the two men who I assume were chunin-level missing nin with another clone that was already following them. One henge'd into a fish and followed them by swimming across, and the other waited until they crossed and got into the trees before he water walked and then caught up with them soon after." Naruto explained. "Wait, you know how to water walk?" Kakashi questioned in disbelief while glaring at Yugao for teaching the demon something he hadn't taught Sasuke. "Learned it years ago, but that's getting off point." Naruto replies. "Wait, you learned water walking years ago? That would mean you learned it while you were still in the academy." Shikamaru questioned. Sasuke was glaring red-hot daggers at the blonde. "What else has the dope hidden from me? First, it was those swords, then he became really fast and strong, and now there are all these techniques he claims to have known for a while. I need to find out what else he's hiding." Sasuke thought. Naruto just looked at Shika and smirked. "I wasn't the only one hiding their skills in the academy, was I, Nara-san?" Naruto questioned the lazy genius who muttered "Troublesome" and feigned ignorance. Just as Sasuke was about to interrogate Naruto, Yugao decided to ask something. "Naruto, what did this Zabuza look like?" She asked. "Let's see, he was about 6 feet 4 inches tall, had bandages covering most of his face, and had a huge sword that was about as long as he was tall strapped to his back." Naruto answered. The jonin gave each other a knowing look. "Naruto, the man you just described is Zabuza Momochi, former Seven Swordsman of the Mist, and an A-rank missing nin." Yugao informs him and the other genin. The others were shocked into silence, though some for different reasons. "Finally, I'll have a true test of my abilities." Thought one delusional, revenge-obsessed boy. "I'll be fine, Sasuke-kun will save us thought another delusional emo boy obsessed pink-haired fangirl. I'll have to hurry and teach Sasuke more jutsu thought a mask-wearing porn-addicted silver-haired jonin. This is my chance to show who's the real alpha dog around here thought a manji smelly girl-obsessed dog boy while his ninken wished he had listened to his brothers and sisters and hid when his master was picking his partner. This mission just got a lot tougher thought everybody else. So, what else did you hear in Naruto-kun asked Yugao receiving a small glare from Hinata who didn't want anyone to call her Naruto-kun Naruto-kun? That our numbers have made Zabuza change plans and is now waiting for extra help to arrive though Gato made it known he wouldn't get paid if he didn't get the job done before the bridge was finished and not after Naruto informs. That's good to know. That means Tazuna will be safe once he finishes his bridge Yugao and the other jonin thought. Actually, I have an idea if you want to listen Naruto says. Yugao nods for him to continue. Well, after thinking over what I heard and my clones saw, it seems like Zabuza won't be able to bring enough help for him to challenge us if we can get the bridge up in a week or so. I would like to help speed up the construction with my shadow clones which will give Tazuna more than enough workers to complete the bridge Naruto says. Yugao thought it over and liked the idea then turned to Tazuna. What do you think Tazuna-san? Yugao asked. I'd appreciate all the help I can get right now. Gato's tactics have made it hard to find decent help and caused some of them to run off. Do you really think you can handle it, boy? This hard work Tazuna says. Naruto just smiles and gives the man a nod. You mentioned that Zabuza said something about thugs Gato has? Asuma asked Naruto who nodded. Then we need to deal with them first. If we can at the very least reduce the number of men he has he'll panic and force Zabuza's hand before he's ready while also reducing any additional threat we may face Asuma explains. I like that as knowing how Gato operates he'd probably wait until right after we fought Zabuza's group and have his thugs take us on when we're tired and low on chakra. Yugao says getting nods from the other jonin. Well, it's pretty late and we need to be in Wave early tomorrow so get some rest. Naruto, please create some clones to establish a perimeter around the camp and a few more to rove around the area Yugao says. Naruto does as asked after dispelling the clones he created earlier and then everyone heads off to sleep. Next day Wave Country. The group was up with the first rays of sunlight and met at the rendezvous point where they would meet with Tazuna's contact a couple of hours later. Unfortunately, they ran across another problem. Look, I'm sorry Tazuna but I can only risk taking you across once. Those who can't fit on the boat will have to find another way across and I can only take four or five of you across the boatman tells them. That is a problem Yugao says. The way I see it there is the flashy way of solving this issue in which way may not even need the boat and then there is the simpler but possibly dangerous way Naruto says to Yugao. Who asked you Naruto baka? Sakura shouted her fists shaking. This was met with nothing as everyone continued on like she wasn't there. Well, the flashy way is those of us that can summon do and we all go across on the summons. The real idea is four genin plus Tazuna get on the boat while those of us who can water walk across carry those that aren't on the boat and can't water walk piggyback style Naruto says. The choice was obvious even if Naruto was right about there being a slight danger to it. Okay. But who gets in the boat and who gets carried? Yugao questions Naruto. I'd say Kiba and Choji would ride with Tazuna if they can't water walk. Sorry Choji, but it would be hard to carry you all the way across a river the size of this one. And well, Kiba stinks Naruto says which gets a nod from everyone. Hey! Kiba shouts. I do not stink. He yells out and everyone ignores him. Choji just nods in understanding although he doesn't like it either. Okay, that's two in the boat who else? Yugao asks looking for volunteers but receives none. How about we determine this another way? How many of you know how to water walk? She asks the genin. To the other jonin's surprise team 11 raised their hands and unsurprisingly no one else did even though one more did know the technique. Maybe I should have raised my hands and impressed Naruto-kun that way. No, if I did then I might be forced to carry Ino or worse Sakura. This way maybe Naruto-kun carries me Hinata thought gleefully. The jonin talked amongst themselves for a moment before a decision was reached. Okay, the following people get in the boat. Kiba and Akamaru Choji Shino and Sakura Kurenai says taking an authoritative command once again. What? Why I am being lumped with those losers? Sakura shrieked. Simple. You are annoying all six jonin said decisively. Sakura shut up for once making everyone thankful that the girl seemed to finally get it. That being said Hinata got her wish as Naruto bent down in front of her and let her climb up on his back. Anko took Ami. Asuma took Ino. Kakashi of course took Sasuke. Yudai took the kunoichi of team four as he had a slight crush on Choji's cousin Akimichi Emi. Hamaki took one of the boys on his team Karama Osamu. Katsu was stuck with Shikamaru who grumbled troublesome about being carried by a dude his age and Naruto created a clone that took Uchiha Haru one of the few surviving Uchiha whose parents never developed the famed Uchiha kekkei genkai so no one thinks he will attain it and last member of the water and reached land. A little too soon for a certain Hyuga who was enjoying riding Naruto. She had dirty little fantasies about doing this when she could get him alone again as they crossed the river unknown to the blond though he wondered why his lower back felt a little damp but crossed it off as having something to do with the mist. The group made it to Tazuna's house without any conversation except for directions from Tazuna and no encounters with enemy shinobi. After greeting Tazuna's daughter Tsunami all the jonin and Naruto gathered in Tazuna's office with Tazuna and Tsunami to discuss living arrangements while the genin went to the living room. Tsunami-san, how many teams could you accommodate here in your house? Yugogo asks. Tazuna was a bit put out at not being asked but understood as his daughter was the one who kept things running in their household. I think we can house two teams sorry we can't do more but I'm sure the town would be willing to reimburse you for the cost of your hotel stay once we get back on our feet Tsunami replies hoping they won't leave. That's fine Tsunami-san Yugogo replies. It was about what she was expecting anyway. This is what we'll do. We'll all stay here with three teams sleeping in tents surrounding the house. My team will of course be one of the teams outside and take the backyard Yugao starts. My team has no problem with staying outside and will take the front Kurenai said. Team four will take the side facing the woods as both your teams should be able to cover the other side Hamaki says. Thanks Kurenai-chan and We'll rotate every two days so that everyone takes turns being inside with the client except for my team that will stay outside near the house. We know Zabuza is watching us so we can't afford to let our guard down. He could make a preemptive strike before his help even arrives. With that said Naruto, I wanted you here so I could ask you to keep about 20 clones surrounding the house and forest. I only want them to stay out of sight and observe unless someone comes around whether they look like ninja or not and inform you then you inform us Yugao says. Naruto nods and after being followed by Tazuna and Tsunami leaves to complete his tasks. They waited for Naruto and their clients to leave and closed the door before they continued. So, what do we do about Gato? Kakashi asked seriously. First, we rest for today. Tomorrow morning we'll scout the town and surrounding area out. Tomorrow evening we train the kids and tomorrow night we strike at Gato Yugao informs everyone. She waits until she receives nods from everyone. Anko and Hamaki, I have a mission for you Yugao starts. Chapter 13 Wave Part 2 Destruction and Angst. Three days passed since the Konoha teams made it Tazuna's house. The citizens of Wave felt like it was a mini invasion of sorts as the teams moved all over the small town during the day. As inconspicuous as they tried to be certain members stuck out like sore thumbs mainly Ino and Sakura who didn't seem to own anything that didn't call attention to themselves. Still, the villagers were happy as Gato had backed off and left them alone after losing some of his thugs to the roving teams. Their spirits were starting to rise and all of them could feel an air of change or maybe renewal coming. Meanwhile, at Tazuna's the jonin were busy. When do you think the little pig will strike back? Anko asked. I don't know, but if he does anything it will most likely involve Zabuza. Anko and Hamaki managed to destroy five of his warehouses and businesses [clears throat] before they had to come back. Plus we got about 60 of his thugs and mercs when we destroyed that base on the north end of the island. Still, from the estimate Tazuna and his friends managed to get we're still looking at over 200 of them Yugao says. Plus there is only one more camp that we could find with a good number of bandits. A few are spread out on the islands in small isolated camps. The rest congregate in his mansion on the east side of the island or in that whorehouse in the town that I've seen a lot of his goons coming in and out of it all times of the night Hamaki adds. The problem is we can't move against the whorehouse without a high risk of civilian casualty. Then there is the problem that some of the girls in there are not in the best mental condition which could make the rescue effort difficult especially if we're fighting at the time Anko says thinking over some of the things she heard during her scouting. What about his mansion? Kakashi asks wanting to move on. Look, I agree we should focus there but we're saving Gato for last and I want to get those women out of there now not in one or two weeks Kurenai says firmly. I agree with Nai-chan Anko says. Kurenai grimaces at the nickname but gives a nod of appreciation to Anko for the support. They all turn to look at Yugao as Asuma agreed with Kakashi and Hamaki was abstaining from voting against either side. This isn't worth an argument. You both are right, but as Kurenai said, we're hitting Gato last or waiting for him to get desperate enough to come at us himself. In the meantime, we have a target we can hit that will hurt Gato a lot, and all we have to do is the right thing by saving some poor innocent women from a bleak fate, Yugao says. The guys all realized it was pointless and submitted. While Kurenai and Anko flashed a cheesy grin and the V sign for victory. So, how do we attack without them killing people before we can stop them? Hamaki asks. That job will be Anko's and Naruto's, Yugao says with a smirk. What? What can a male genin do in an operation like this? Kakashi asked, truly interested. Oh, you'll see, Yugao says as she leaves the room. 8:00 p.m. outside Fish and Dips. Naruto really didn't want to do this. He argued against this every way he could, and he only agreed on the condition that he dressed himself. Alone, no help, and that his method of doing it is secret. Honestly, Naruto didn't need nor want to let out this ability. Yugao had promised him she didn't tell them anything except what they already assumed about his ability, that it was just a stupid, childish, and sexist henge. The other genin were all kept away with training as he and Anko made their way to their destination with most of the jonin trailing them after leaving to watch out for the kids and clients. Half an hour later, they were standing in front of the building. Naruto took a deep breath, then walked into the gang hangout {slash} strip joint {slash} whorehouse Anko in front. As Naruto walked in and shut the door behind them, she looked over the place and had to fight hard to keep frowns from forming. It was large for a strip club, at least bigger than the ones she went into in Konoha. She guessed the walls were white, but with the dim colored lighting that flashed different colors around, at least the area she was in it was hard to tell. She saw a large stage with a couple of girls mindlessly dancing to what she could best describe as noise. There was a bar all the way across the room with a man who looked to be about 6'3, bald, and overweight with a few visible tattoos on him behind it. She could make out five ladies of different ages roaming the floor until one took a man and headed up a set of stairs. Naruto took note of the upstairs, but knew what they was looking for would be someplace hidden. Walking over to the bar in a manner he figured only someone like Anko could pull off he watched as the woman grabbed the bartender's attention. Literally. Turning the man around to face her, she grabbed his crotch and asked, "Is Gato here, big boy? I heard he was looking for mercs who could get a job done, no questions asked." She says giving a little extra squeeze to his equipment. "E- do no. G- Gato hasn't been here in weeks." He manages to get out. "Know where I can find him?" She asks leaning over the bar giving him a show that threatened to send him into a blood loss induced coma. "N- n- no. B- but I- if you wait here, he might come in." He stutters having a hard time controlling himself. Anko nods giving the man a smile and a gentle pat before she lets him go and sits down. Anko waves Naruto over and sits down on a barstool next to the woman. "Bartender, get me and my little sis a bottle of sake with two glasses." She said getting the man's attention again. He quickly grabs a bottle of cheap sake and pours it into two large glasses. Anko notices him leering at the now female Naruto instead of her and secretly pouted. How could any man see this gorgeous body and not be all over it? She questioned. She had to admit though the transformed Naru-chan was sickeningly cute. I still have to find a way to get him to forgive me. She thought catching another heated glance coming from the younger girl. Naruto so far hated this mission. I'm so close to just saying [ __ ] it and kill everybody in here, Naruto thought as he She caught the bartender blatantly ogling what should look to him like a 12-year-old girl. Catching another man who sat on the stool next to her getting a little to close while trying to look down the front of her dress, Naruto had to wonder if maybe being called a demon wasn't a compliment. Naruto was brought out of his thoughts by Anko. "Hey, blondie-chan, get your little ass moving." The special jonin calls out. Naruto looks at the woman only to find she's back flirting with the bartender. Just do this mission and you'll never have to see her or this place again, Naruto reminded himself. Deciding not to stick around and catch the rest of whatever was going to happen, Naruto asked where the bathroom was and went where the bartender pointed. Upon entering the bathroom, which was disgusting, Naruto took off his clothes and sealed them away in a scroll he pocketed, transformed into a spider, and crawled under the door, then up the walls, and down to the employee only area of the club a level below the club. Naruto made it to the lower level surprisingly easy, even if he was using the form of an inconspicuous spider to do it. They had no traps or alarms or even guards to protect the area. There were signs of what went on down there and several clothed captives, but no men to guard them. Seeing a door in a far corner with light shining underneath it, Naruto moved towards it leaving the women for now as his objective was to incapacitate as many thugs as he could without alerting anyone and then call in the troops to handle the darker aspects of the mission. Moving towards the door, he notices it's heavier than the rest with a few minor seals on it, but he still made it underneath without detection. Naruto had to stop and gather his breath to stop from puking. The smell was horrible as it stank of stale ejaculate, piss, and excrement. It was a large area, possibly bigger than the upstairs itself with concrete floors and about 20 cement partitions giving the feeling of stalls in a barn. As Naruto moved across the walls, he could see girls and women as young as eight and as old as 50 chained up to the bed looking malnourished and in need of medical care, some worse that had bowls or dishes like dogs with what looked like dog food and water in them seemingly untouched and a large bucket next to the bed in place of a toilet. Naruto guessed this is where Gato broke the girls, but figured this was probably just one of many places he did that at. Naruto walked the entire length in his transformed state, which took a while but didn't see any thugs, just girls. Figuring he had been gone long enough, Naruto created 10 clones that looked like he normally did and had them start working on freeing the girls from their binds and then hide out until the raid started or one of the thugs decided to use one of the girls, in which case the clone would knock him out if possible and if not dispose of him. Some of the girls he had some trouble with as the trauma they had endured so far made them scared of any male, even one trying to help them. But he just created a few more clones to help and try to ease the situation before bolting back up the stairs, then transforming back into spider form to crawl unnoticed under the door. Unfortunately, Naruto missed a pair of green eyes that seemed to glow in the back of the room. But instead of interfering, that person slowly followed Naruto up before leaving the club to report in to his leader. Making it back up the stairs and into the bathroom, Naruto quickly transformed back into his 12-year-old girl form and dressed before heading back to where Anko was. Unfortunately, just as Naruto came out of the bathroom, Anko was going upstairs with some guy leaving him her to sit alone at the bar with the creepy bartender that obviously had pedophilic tendencies. As Naruto sat, he noticed the bartender once again eyeing him now this time without Anko around, the fat man decided to ogle his female transformation's body with no attempt to hide it as he stood across from her. Deciding to speak up, Naruto asked, "Um, bartender-san, do you know where my onee-chan went?" The bartender sort of giggled sinisterly for a second hoping the young girl didn't notice. "Yeah, she went upstairs with a friend of mine. Don't worry, she'll be fine and I'll look after you while she's gone." He replies. "Arigato, bartender-san." Naruto says. "No need for formalities, g- r- you. Just call me Daikun or Daisuke-san if you must." The man says. "Okay, Daisuke-san. Um, would it be possible for me to get a glass of gyokuro?" Naruto asked. "Sorry, but all I have is alcohol or water." The bartender says. "That's okay. I'll just take a glass of water." Naruto replies with a smile. The bartender smiled back and gave a nod. But when he turned around to fill the water, his smile turned evil as he plotted to have his way with the girl while his friend took care of her sister. It was less than a minute later when the man came back with the glass of water, which Naruto took gratefully. As he drank, Naruto noticed there was a foreign substance in his drink. "Hm, I think I tasted something like this once when I went to a restaurant in Konoha some years back. Yeah, that lady pretended to be nice and said I reminded her of her brother while she slipped me some kind of drug that made sleepy. Too bad this guy doesn't know this kind of stuff won't work on me anymore, but I think I'll play along and see what he's up to." Naruto thinks. Drinking the rest quickly, Naruto puts the glass down and then 5 minutes later fakes like he's starting to get drowsy. The bartender watches as Naruto starts to swoon, then gets up from the stool mumbling something before staggering towards the bathroom and then falling on her face. After coming from around the bar and making sure she was still breathing, the man called out to two patrons who had been watching the whole thing to help him. "I see you caught another die." Said one of the men. "What can I say, Kyu? These little [ __ ] wander in here thinking they can get something for free. Well, nothing's free in this world and I'm just the man to teach them that." Daisuke replies grinning. Naruto feels the men pick her up and place him over one of their shoulders as they seem to leave the bar area then head down. Figuring they would take him to where they broke the other women, he continues to fake sleep. The men make it to the lower level opening the sealed off door as Daisuke has a special key. The clones seeing that someone is coming and shushed the women and had them pretend to still be chained. They were prepared to attack, but saw their creator and decided to stay hidden. Naruto feels himself being put down and placed on the hard cold concrete and then footsteps as the men moved off a slight distance, but it made no difference as Naruto could easily hear them with his enhanced senses. Kyo, go upstairs and let the boys know of our guest here and have Michi bring the older one down here if he's done with her. Nobiru, find the others and let them know some fresh entertainment is available and to spread the word, Daisuke orders. Kyo started up the stairs but Nobiru decided to voice something. Hey Daisuke, what will you be doing while we're getting the others? Nobiru asks causing Daisuke to grin widely. Taking my turn of course. I did drug the little [ __ ] and get her down here after all, he replies. Nobiru mutters greedy bastard but just nods and follows Kyo who stayed to hear the conversation. Naruto waits until he hears the door open and shut behind the two lowlifes before opening his eyes to find the bartender leering at his transformation's body as he's taking off his clothes not noticing his eyes were open. Naruto quickly jumps up and hits the man once in the throat then sends an open palm thrust to his nose sending it into his brain killing him before he could utter much of a sound. Naruto smiled and sent a quick thank you to Kyubi for teaching him those moves. Sealing the body away Naruto did a simple water jutsu to wash away the blood and then called to his clones to come out from hiding. He gave them orders which was a little odd to them coming from their boss looking like a 12-year-old girl. All right, one of you use the dark teleportation technique to find Anko and let her know what's going on. Then seal the body of the man that took her upstairs away if necessary and henge to look like him while she plays like she's knocked out. Get in the bed and cover both of you up and when the man comes and play like you are with him and will bring her down when you are finished. I also need another one of you to use the dark teleportation technique to go outside and inform sensei of what's going on then dispel to let me know of anything she wants to tell me. The rest of you hide until the fun starts, Naruto orders getting nods as two of the clones step away from the group and do as ordered. While the clones hid and waited to execute his orders Naruto used another bunshin jutsu and had that clone lay down. Naruto then weaved a genjutsu around the area the clone lay so that when the thugs came down they would see a naked and abused 12-year-old girl that looked to be asleep. Stepping back Naruto appreciated his work then stripped and sealed the girl clothes he borrowed away. Then he once again used his transformation technique to look like the bartender then unsealing his body taking the clothes and putting them on then sealing the body back up though he left the shirt open and used a suiton jutsu to make himself look wet like he worked up a sweat. After that Naruto waited until information poured into his head. The clone he sent to Anko created another clone which dispelled letting him know everything was going as planned. He had to sigh though at the images of how the clone found Anko and the remark she made flustering him. She was naked on top of the guy knocked out and when Naruto's clone appeared and instead of being shocked or wanting to know what technique that was he just used the woman decided to tease his clone by saying like what you see. Want to join us Naruto-kun? Naruto could only scoff and mumble to himself at that woman's brazenness hoping this mission would end soon. Unfortunately his clone's reaction was more in the line of nosebleed and being knocked out before dispelling causing Naruto to have to send another clone. Naruto soon twinged again as more information came to him. It appeared the others liked his plan and decided to wait for the other thugs to arrive before acting. So the only thing Naruto had left to do was wait. It was only a minute later when the door opened again revealing Kyo and about 10 men of varying ages. Naruto disguised as Daisuke moved to stall them. I see that didn't take you much time Kyo, Naruto says. Kyo for his part looked at him with a bit of confusion in his eyes. You know Danzo's forcing everyone to keep a low profile. Since those ninjas showed up he's been real jumpy and with so many of our men killed and his buildings destroyed everyone has stayed closer to the base. Kyo says eyeing his friend closely. I know that. I just thought I saw more men upstairs, Naruto lies. There were a few more but they said they liked where they were at and stayed upstairs. Personally I said good less competition if you know what I mean. Kyo says nudging his friend. Naruto nodded. Should we wait for Nobiru? Naruto asks hoping the man would say yes. No, besides you already got your turn and now I want mine before that team shows up with a hundred men all wanting to take their turn. Kyo says undaunted looking over the body of the girl laying on the floor. That many, huh? Naruto says in an offhanded manner. Yeah, maybe more. Nobiru told me he was headed to the base so I figure a bunch of them will want in on this. You know with those ninja around we haven't been able to snatch anything fresh all week and the ones Danzo keeps he keeps to himself, Kyo says. Okay. But we should wait for Michi that way there will be two new [ __ ] to bang, Naruto disguised as Daisuke says. Kyo and the men he bought thought about it and nodded. But quickly Kyo said if he takes too long I'm taking my turn with the girl regardless. The men nodded also thinking the same. Some of the men turned and with nothing else to do started leering at the women already confined in the basement but went no further as they didn't want to waste a load on already broken horse. Naruto looked at each of them and wanted to kill them now but he had time now and would wait hoping the other man would show up with his friends before these bastards grew impatient. 10 minutes later the men started advancing and Naruto was close to activating a technique to kill them all when the door opened up again. It was only the clone he had henge to look like the guy they called Michi. Hey Michi, done already? One of the men called out. Yeah, and I need some help getting the [ __ ] down here, the clone called out. What? She too heavy for you? Another of the thugs called out laughing. She's heavier than she looks all right, the clone sheepishly replied. Naruto decided to step up hoping this would buy him more time. Fine. Two of you go with him and we'll wait to start the fun, Naruto disguised as Daisuke said. There was an argument but a few minutes later two men and the clone left to bring Anko down. It was 10 minutes later when the door opened. Naruto started to slowly gather chakra just in case it was Anko. It was better to get a few than risk a comrade's life by using a dangerous technique near them even if you hated them. However, the fates seemed to smile on Naruto as instead of his clone and Anko it was Nobiru with about 50 men trailing in the door behind him. Naruto had hoped for more but he wasn't greedy. Stepping to the back as the crowd of men poured into the basement Naruto signaled what he wanted his clones to do as they got into position around the large gathering of men. I thought you guys would be pulling a train on the girl by now, Nobiru said. We were waiting on Michi to bring his [ __ ] down but I guess we waited long enough and can get started. The henged Naruto said getting agreements all around. Who goes first? One of the thugs that came with Nobiru asked. I've already had my turn so I'll leave that up to you guys, Naruto said and left the others to fight moving towards the stairs. The fighting hadn't died down when Michi finally reappeared with a seemingly unconscious Anko and the two men who went with the clone to retrieve her. Just as they started to head down the stairs Naruto activated his trap quietly intoning bunshin daibakuha clone great explosion. The men that were fighting stopped as the genjutsu fell apart and the clones started to glow before suddenly exploding tearing through the first 10 men that surrounded the clone and injuring five more. The rest were mostly just stunned and had trouble hearing. This was the cue the clones and Anko were waiting for. The clones dropped down from their positions on the ceiling and taking out a kunai began to stab the men farthest from the explosion in their backs and neck. Anko quickly joined in using her senai jashu hidden shadow snake hands to poison the two men holding her. The men quickly fell to their knees and clutched their necks where the snakes bit. Anko didn't even wait to see if they died or not instantly running into the crowd of men and using two kunai she began cutting into them. Naruto sat watching the melee creating a few more clones to help in the attack while he took off the dead man's clothes and put on his normal all black clothes and shoes then tied up his hair. Finished he watched as Anko and his clones ruthlessly cut down one man after another with no pause not even sparing so much as a look back to their victims. He had to admit the woman was good and deadly especially with that snake jutsu of hers. Naruto had other worries though mostly if the explosion that shook the building a bit would alert anyone upstairs before they could finish and get the girls out. Naruto decided to head on upstairs when there were all but five guys left and dismissed all of his current clones as the remaining ones were covered in blood. He created 20 new clones that would help the women and girls who were still pretending to be chained up out of there and back to their homes. Walking up the stairs Naruto freed the woman on the second level then continued up the stairs. He found everything was empty as it seemed like the explosion scared off the other thugs and the women with his clones long gone. Going upstairs Naruto found more women but no men so he got the women together who were in better shape than those he found downstairs and herded them downstairs and out of the building. Getting outside Naruto looked around for any more of the thugs and found the street wet and a few scorch marks on the ground. That was when the Jonin and his sensei leapt down from where they hid on adjacent rooftops. Nice job Naruto, where is Anko? Yugao asked. Finishing up. There were only a few left when I had the clones gather up the women and leave so she should be here any minute, Naruto says. Just as he finished saying that a blood stained Anko came waltzing out whistling a tune. Hey blondie, what happened to the dress? I thought it looked really cute on you, Anko teased. Naruto just growled at the woman before walking off back towards the house the male Jonin following. Was that really necessary Anko? Yugao chided her friend. Yes. Yes, it was, Anko replied before turning aside eye towards her long time friend. You think he'll forgive me? Anko asked suddenly. For the joke? Yugao asked. No, for you know, Anko replied softly. It suddenly dawned on Yugao what she was talking about. Naruto never talked about it, but Anko did as the guilty had been steadily dragging her down. To have any part in the abuse of someone who many thought could be her male twin, if you dyed his hair of course and changed the color of his eyes and made him older really ate away at the woman. Aside from missions like this where she got to cut loose and spill some blood, she was very subdued and it kind of freaked everyone who knew her out. Yugao could only look at her friend and then down the path the blond went. "I don't know, Anko." She started as Anko looked down towards the ground. "But maybe when all this is over we can work on changing his mind." Yugao says lifting her friend's spirit. Anko smiled appreciating her friend's support and gave her a nod. But could only frown as she looked towards where the blond disappeared. Catching her friend's eyes and knowing what she was thinking, Yugao quickly moved next to her as Kurenai came up beside her. "How about we do something fun?" Yugao says clasping her hand around Anko's shoulder. "Like what?" Anko asked. "Like maybe send a message to a certain fat tick draining this country dry." Yugao says. "And how do you suggest we do that?" Kurenai asked. Yugao didn't answer for a minute, just looked at the building they cleared out littered with the bodies of Gato's thugs. "Do you have any tags left from your last mission, Anko?" Yugao asked with a smile. Anko was about to question why, but then looked at where her friend was looking and started to laugh. Kurenai just looked on confused and asked, "What?" "I think I have a few." Anko answers with a grin on her face. 11:13 p.m. Tazuna's backyard. Naruto was in his tent relaxing while reading a scroll on a very strong elemental technique he wanted to learn when he felt a presence outside his tent. Opening up his tent, Naruto found Team 7's sensei Kakashi Hatake and one of the demon haters though he wasn't sure if Hatake knew he knew. "What can I do for you, Hatake-san?" Naruto asked the silver-haired jonin. "I came to ask if you wanted to train with me and my team tomorrow." Hatake asked. "No thanks, Hatake-san. I have my own training, team training, and sparring with Yugao-sensei." Naruto informs the man. "Are you sure?" "I can teach you many powerful techniques that I doubt Yugao-chan will know." Kakashi tries to bribe the teen. "No thanks, Hatake." "But I appreciate the offer." Naruto says as he begins to close his tent's opening. "Wait, wait, give me a minute." The silver-haired man hurriedly said. "Fine." "But hurry, I was in the middle of reading up on a technique I'm trying to learn." Naruto says dismissively. The tone wasn't lost on Kakashi and it infuriated him to say the least. "How can this demon deny me anything after all he's taken from me? Still, if jutsu doesn't get him to do what I want, maybe something else will." Hatake thought. Naruto meanwhile could sense the hate coming from the man, but kept quiet. "How about a spar?" Hatake asked. "Against you?" Naruto asked raising an eyebrow at the man. "No, no, of course not." "You are just a genin, it wouldn't be fair." Hatake said chuckling. Now this pissed Naruto off greatly, but he learned not just to control his chakra from Kurama, but his emotions as well. "I meant Sasuke of course." Hatake said still chuckling well until he heard laughter himself. Naruto couldn't believe this team thought he needed or wanted to spar against his protege. It was just too funny and he had to laugh at the thought. Sasuke truly was the most talented of the other genin when they were in the academy. A fact the team would make sure to rub in to any and everyone who would listen. However, since their graduation, the Rookie 9 as many would call them had changed in a number of ways. Most of the girls stopped their fan girlish ways. Hinata gained confidence in herself and was getting stronger every day. And Ino and Ami had grown to love training and stopped their foolish diets. There wasn't as much change among the guys if any and aside from him, Naruto would admit Sasuke was still top dog among the male genin. However, if you add in the girls, he had been overtaken by Hinata and Ami once both dealt with their issues and took the advice of several high-level kunoichi. He could still beat Ino as in Naruto's opinion, she still relied too much on her Shintenshin no jutsu mind body switch technique. But she was learning more techniques and slowly breaking away from relying so heavily on her clan techniques though she was still learning them from her dad and fellow clan members. Naruto could only laugh at the lame offer. "Ha, ha." "Haha, thanks for the laugh, but as foolish as you think me sparring you is, I find it similarly foolish to place me against Sasuke. I know you saw what happened after our graduation and that was using barely a quarter of my raw physical abilities. Now I could beat him with one hand right now. You're not much of a challenge either, Hatake." Naruto taunts. Kakashi's eyes screwed shut in rage. This was it, he'd had enough of the smart-mouthing demon bastard. "Big talk, genin." "How about we see just how good you are with a little spar tomorrow. If you win, I will personally write down all of the B and C level jutsu I know and let you choose five that I will write down and give you." Kakashi offers. Naruto was no fool. This offer was too great to pass up. He knew Kakashi's rep as the copy ninja, a man of a thousand techniques. He wasn't much as a man or a ninja these days, but that transplanted eye of his had stored a ton of knowledge from his many years in service. "All right, Hatake. I think you're full of [ __ ] but your rep speaks for itself. I'll even add that if you win, I'll spar with Sasuke and help him train until the mission ends." Naruto says. Both nod in agreement as Hatake walks back to the house. It was only a few minutes later when another presence was felt outside his tent. But this one was a much more welcomed one. "Hello, Yugao-sensei." "Something I can do for you?" Naruto says with a smile. "Not really, I I just saw Hatake team leave towards the house and wondered what he wanted." She asked. "Oh, he wanted me to train with his team tomorrow." Naruto says nonchalantly. "How'd that go?" Yugao asked knowing his answer without asking. "Oh, I rejected it. He challenged me to a spar against Sasuke. I laughed, he mocked me, I mocked him and Sasuke, he challenged me, and I accepted." Naruto says all with a grin. "What?" "Naruto, you can't." "Not now when we have no idea when the enemy might attack in retaliation. Besides, despite what you may think, Hatake team was legendary among ANBU and is still a really strong adversary." Yugao warned. "I know, sensei, and I am aware of our situation, but if I do this, I can end this once and for all. Plus, he offered up five jutsu of B and C level when I beat him." Naruto responds. Yugao sighed. "Fine. I doubt I could talk you out of it anyway." She says in resignation. Naruto smiles in response, but Yugao wasn't done yet. "But I will referee the match and when I say it's over, it's over. Also, no use of that chakra, any of your elements aside from wind, no summons, and no jutsu above B level. Am I clear?" She says in a tone that brokered no argument. "What?" "Why? That puts me at a disadvantage when he can use all his elements plus that sharingan of his." Naruto complains. "I will allow him to use his techniques, but to be fair and because I always hated the sharingan's copying ability, I won't allow him to use it, Naruto." Yugao said. Naruto grumbled a bit, but nodded in acceptance. "At least I get to use my swords on him." Naruto thought with an evil grin. Yugao quickly put a stop to that. "I will only allow wooden weapons to be used." Yugao says turning Naruto's grin into a scowl. "Look, Naruto, I know you hate the guy and you have your reasons, but we're on a mission and he's still a valuable tool to use in the upcoming battle. I need to know you'll be professional enough to cast aside old grudges and not permanently injure or kill the man." She asked him. Naruto nodded, but was not happy as while he wouldn't kill anyone from Konoha for the next 3 years, he had looked forward to seeing Kakashi's face as he ripped him apart. Though he would still be sure to impart as much pain as possible on the porn addict, he just wouldn't [ __ ] the team. Next day, 1:15 p.m. Tazuna's backyard. At 1:00, all five teams and their senseis gathered to watch the spar. The jonin except for Yugao were all of the opinion this would be over quickly with Kakashi the victor. The genin also shared that opinion save for a certain pale-eyed girl and Naruto's teammates. Some hoped Kakashi would severely injure the blond for their own selfish reasons. Everyone looked out into the clearing making sure to stay a safe distance from the fight. Naruto just stared at the copy-nin as said loser casually read his porn pissing off all the women and Naruto. "Are you going to read porn that you've probably read a thousand times by now all day or are we going to get this over with?" Naruto asked the silver-haired porn addict. Kakashi didn't even put his book down saying, "Hmm." "You say something?" In a distant land, a shout of youth was heard followed by a similar yet higher pitched shout. Yugao stepped in and called for the match to begin after reminding each fighter of their restrictions as she added another saying the fight was not to leave the backyard. Meanwhile, in the woods, a certain missing nin and his accomplice were watching with interest. "What do you think, Haku?" The taller of the duo asked. "I think the blond one will win especially if that copy-nin continues to underestimate him." Haku answered. "So you think the blond is the most dangerous of those Leaf nin?" The tall man asked. "No, I think the purple-haired woman is the leader and strongest, but I could be wrong. There is something about the blond that tells me he's even more dangerous." Haku analyzes and receives a grunt from the tall man. Back to the fight, Naruto and Kakashi simply stood in their positions for 5 minutes. Naruto knew the man was trying to bait him into making a mistake and wouldn't move first, so he took the initiative. Moving faster than those gathered believed he could Naruto was quickly on the silver-haired man as he swung a seemingly wild left hook. Kakashi dodged only to the blonde use his moment to execute a spin kick which he blocked with difficulty. What he didn't see was Naruto make the hand signs for a jutsu as he quickly turned to face the copycat ninja and thrust his hands out hitting Kakashi with a futon daitoppa wind release great breakthrough. Naruto merely watched as Kakashi sailed through the air and roughly fell on his backside unprepared for the attack and unable to land smoothly. The gathered Jonin and Genin couldn't believe what they just saw. Most had heard the blonde was stronger than he let on in the academy but this was ridiculous. First the elemental manipulation which so far only Sasuke proved capable of with his fire jutsu then how he used a simple combo to set up the use of the jutsu was simply amazing. Naruto didn't wait for Kakashi to get up quickly using the ram hand seal for another jutsu calling out futon atsugai wind release pressure damage as a tornado formed in front of his outstretched hands and gradually grew stronger and stronger until Naruto released hitting Kakashi full blast and causing the Jonin to anchor themselves to the ground and protect their teams and Tsunade who wanted to see how ninja fight. Naruto watched as Kakashi was picked up and slammed into a tree that was soon uprooted due to the pressure of the wind and Kakashi receiving cuts and large bruises. However, as soon as the tree crashed with Kakashi on top of it he went up in a poof of smoke and Naruto felt the ground shake a little as two pairs of hands reached up out of the ground latched onto his legs and pulled him underground. Kakashi soon revealed himself coming up out of the ground a few inches from where Naruto was and walked over to taunt him. I see you used a clone to substitute with before my jutsu hit you. Naruto says and Kakashi nods. I suggest you give up Naruto. You can't beat me Kakashi says cockily. On the sidelines the group watching were amazed especially by that last jutsu Naruto used which the Jonin recognized as a B rank wind ninjutsu. Funny I was thinking the same thing. Naruto says before the clone puffs into smoke leaving Kakashi to look into an empty hole. Kakashi almost didn't hear him as Naruto came charging up from behind but the former ANBU managed to spin and catch the foot heading for his spine. Pushing Naruto's leg aside Kakashi moved in to deliver a haymaker to Naruto's chin. But the boy was too quick as Naruto moved and hit Kakashi with a quick jab to his stomach. That didn't stop Kakashi from retaliating with punch to Naruto's stomach. What Kakashi didn't expect was for the Naruto he hit to to puff into smoke leaving him unbalanced as another Naruto came from behind and delivered an X kick to the top of his head only for a log to suddenly replace Kakashi as the force of Naruto's kick split it in two. Naruto looked around and spotted the man leaning against another tree. Kakashi was trying to look cool but inwardly he was frightened at how powerful the kid was. If he didn't know any better he might think the kid was better than him. Now he wasn't given more time to contemplate as a fist was heading straight for his head. Ducking underneath Kakashi tried to get some distance between him and the wielder of the fist but the kid just moved with him and kept punching at his head, body and tried to kick his knees once. Naruto just kept up the offensive as Kakashi moved around and kept using the kawaremi no jutsu body replacement technique but Naruto could sense where he was and was instantly on him. One thing Naruto knew about Kakashi was that he had relatively low stamina or at the very least nowhere his level. Tiring Kakashi out would be a simple way to win but Naruto never liked taking the easy way out. Keeping Kakashi on the move Naruto drew in a deep breath and then blew out a stream of air wind release stream that impacted Kakashi right on his chest leaving him off balance. Naruto took the advantage and used a jutsu that made Asuma gasp cocking back his fist and gathering his wind chakra so it swirled around his fist he called out futon sempukan wind release whirlwind fist as he landed a hard punch into the copy nin stomach. If that was all he did it would hurt but Kakashi would have shrugged the attack off. Instead he got the force of Naruto's punch which knocked the wind out of him and the wind which turned into a whirlwind that instantly engulfed him then drilled him through two trees and into unconsciousness. Kurenai quickly ran to Kakashi's side and checked his pulse. He's fine just some cuts, bruises and he is unconscious she calls out. Naruto no longer caring walked away heading towards his tent. He didn't get far before he was bombarded with a bunch of questions. How did you get those jutsus? Teach me of course came from a self-proclaimed avenger. Naruto just ignored him and looked at the rest enraging the last loyal Uchiha who mentally ranted about blonde bastards that didn't know their place. Actually I would like to know that as well. Where did you get those jutsu? Asuma asked. I guess you're referring more to your jutsu futon sempukan wind release whirlwind fist Naruto says getting a nod from the man. Your father the Hokage decided as a I guess you would say repayment for all the abuse I suffered until recently and as a reward for my help against Danzo and Mizuki the Hokage decided to let me learn some jutsu and that one and the others were a few I chose Naruto says. Do by demand you give me those jutsus as only an elite like me should learn them and not some loser like you Sasuke demands only to be ignored again. Hey Sasuke wants those jutsus so hand them over. Shouted his loyal lap [ __ ] She was ignored all the same making the two turn red with anger. How did you get so strong so suddenly when you were so weak in the academy? Ino asked not believing what she saw. Naruto looked at her then the group that had grown quiet wanting the answer as well. I only attended the academy four times. The first two days the exam and then when we received our team assignments Naruto says stunning everyone. What? That's impossible. We saw you there every day. She shouted with the others shaking their head in agreement. Naruto just sighed. What you saw was the same clone technique I used against Kakashi. Kage bunshin are not only solid but they take at least half of a normal shinobi's chakra making it hard to tell the clone from the user. They also have the side benefit of the user gaining their memories and experience when they are dispelled. The downside is they are easily dispelled by a solid hit which is why in the academy I declined all those spars and appeared to be weak. I spent every day training with someone who took an interest in me and helped me train Naruto replies. Who trained you? Answer me. Sasuke demanded once again. Naruto looked at the boy with an even gaze. Why should I answer you about anything? Naruto asked. Because I am an Uchiha and deserve it more than some low class orphan whose parents deserted him Sasuke says angrily. That didn't last long however as Naruto punches the Uchiha right in the face with all of his strength knocking the boy to the ground. Sasuke groaned as he raised his hands to rub his cheek. It felt like a couple of teeth were broken by the fist that smashed into him. However Naruto wasn't done and quickly stomped on Sasuke's stomach then placed his foot on his neck and slowly increased the pressure. The others that were frozen first by the insult then how quickly Naruto had knocked the Uchiha to the ground unfroze and moved to stop the boy from killing the arrogant boy. Shikamaru quickly activated his kagemane no jutsu shadow imitation technique and captured Naruto using his shadow jutsu. But when he tried to make Naruto move nothing happened. What's going on? Why won't my jutsu work? Shikamaru asked but he got no answer. Ino tried to run up and hit Naruto with her improved speed but soon found herself sprawled out on the ground from Naruto hitting her before she could hit him. The same thing happened to Choji, Kiba and Ami. They couldn't throw kunai or shuriken at him for fear of hitting Sasuke so the rest stood back. Naruto stop this at once. Kurenai shouted. Naruto didn't answer or even look at her so Asuma took a shot. Genin stand down. Asuma barked at Naruto who only laughed. I think you forgot Jonin that I am only obligated to take orders from Yugao sensei. Naruto says going back to applying pressure on the Uchiha's neck. Sasuke at this point was letting out high pitched squeals and sounds as he was once again reduced to clawing at Naruto's leg to get out from under him. Now listen to me you arrogant little prick. I have no love for my family but that does not mean I will allow some insignificant little insect like you to denigrate them. I'm tired of your attitude. I thought you got the message last time but here it is again. I am not a dope, your punching bag, your shield nor your friend. The only thing we have in common is our service to the village and in that vein I will work with you in a civil manner but I do not like you and will never answer to your silly and petty demands. You are not my better and I could care less about your almighty the jutsu that you haven't even attained yet. So next time think before you speak and remember that I can always end you. I just choose not to Naruto said and then walked off leaving a stunned and agreeing crowd behind as he went off into the forest. Asterisk with Zabuza and Haku. What do you think Haku? The tall man asked. I don't know Zabuza-sama. It's clear he's very powerful. But Kakashi wasn't using his sharingan for some reason Haku replied. I saw that too. Maybe they were holding back in case we attacked soon. Zabuza said rubbing his chin in thought. A voice broke them from their thoughts. Enjoy the show? A voice from above them said. Who's there? Show yourself. Zabuza shouted. Now why should I do that? I suggest that you move along before I alert the others of your presence. The voice says. Zabuza and Haku didn't need to be told twice as they quickly shunshin'd out of the area. Naruto stood on a tree watching as they fled and made new clones to follow them. *9:00 p.m. Tazuna's house dining room. Naruto was eating dinner with Tazuna, his family, and all of the Konoha teams and their senseis. It was quiet so far as everyone save for Naruto and his team were thinking about what took place earlier and wanted to question the blonde about what he did and said. The tension was palpable as Naruto and his team sat on one side of the dinner table across from Tazuna, his family, and team eight while the rest of the teams were situated around the room all occasionally looking or glaring at the blonde teen as he ate. Finally, someone snapped. "Why? Why are you all here? There is no such things as heroes and Gato will kill all of you. Why don't you all just leave and go back to your comfy homes and live your safe and privileged lives where you don't even know the meaning of suffering like we do." Inari shouts. At this, everyone looked at Naruto expecting him to explode. But Naruto just kept eating ignoring the little boy. Inari didn't like the fact that Naruto kept eating during his tirade since he was the main one he was aiming his comments at. Fed up with the blonde, Inari reached across the table, picked Naruto's plate up, and threw it to the ground. However, this didn't get the response Inari was looking for. Naruto calmly looked at Tsunami and asked, "Would you mind if I had seconds, Tsunami-san, as I didn't seem to get my fill from the first serving of your delicious food?" The others looked on shocked not believing the Naruto they knew would take Inari's tantrum so easily. Tsunami, for her part, was embarrassed at how her son acted and was impressed with the blonde, but sadly replied, "No. I'm sorry, Naruto-kun, that was all the food we had left." Naruto nodded then reaching into a pocket on his vest where he hid his seals. He unsealed a previously prepared him sandwich and started eating. Tsunami and her father looked on in shock wondering where the sandwich came from. The genin minus those on Naruto's team also made similar faces and the jonin weren't doing much better wondering where the blonde learned fuinjutsu. Inari was absolutely livid that Naruto didn't even acknowledge him or his pain and reached across to snatch the sandwich out of his hands. That was a bad move as Naruto was always protective of his food due to lack of availability of it and the many times he'd had it stolen from him as a kid. Naruto quickly smacked the kid's hands hard creating a painful stinging sensation making the boy retract his hands and rub them as he glared at the blonde. "Listen here, brat. I grew up not knowing when my next meal would come, if it would be edible, if it would be poisoned or tampered with, if it would be stolen from me, or if I would enjoy it. To get by, I would eat the bugs and rats that infested my apartment just to survive day to day." Naruto started. To say the other genin were shocked by this revelation would be an understatement and a few thought it was mere lies. The jonin, however, knew of the blonde's suffering and looked down in shame showing those who cared to look that what he said was true. Only Kakashi had a look of indifference as he thought the demon deserved to live that way. "I had to live in that condition from the time I was four when they kicked me out of the orphanage for good till the time I was seven when I got smarter and started hunting and living in the forests. I had to watch as others lived that cushy life you were talking about as they looked down on me barely sparing a glance or if they did, they took what little I had and beat me or worse. Yet here you are with a mother and grandfather to look after you in a nice house with warm meals provided to you and you call this suffering." Naruto says in a dark but calm voice. "The pain of losing someone precious to you is great and I know you are suffering as the old drunk told us about Kaiza and what he meant to you. It is a pain I know all too well as I was forced to watch one of the few friends I ever had as a child tortured alongside me and killed. I survived, unfortunately." He whispered though a few heard him or were able to read his lips. "But I'm not crying or seeking revenge. Instead, I'm doing something about it and soon my dream will come true." Naruto says. This had an effect on almost everyone as even Inari was near tears at the blonde's story. Naruto decided to get up and leave not wanting to answer any questions, but was stopped by a gentle voice. "Naruto-kun, what is your dream?" asked Hinata hoping to help him in any way possible and possibly fulfill her own dream. "That is simple." Naruto said gaining everyone's attention. "My dream is to be free of the chains that currently hold me down." Naruto says as he walks out the door. Later that night with Haku and Zabuza. "Have you heard from all of them, Zabuza-sama?" Haku asked. Zabuza just nodded prompting Haku to ask, "Are they all coming?" "No, two of the weaker ones declined as did Raiga unfortunately and a few more are dead from what I have been able to find out." Zabuza said wishing he could have said yes. "How many were you able to get?" Haku asked. "Chosuke and Gentetsu of Iwa, Meizu and Gozu, Taro, Taichi, and Michi all said they will be here within the week." Zabuza says. "What? But Zabuza-sama, you saw that boy and his group. None of those guys will be of any use. They'll just slow them down a little and get us all killed." Haku said surprising Zabuza as she never went against him. Haku though was shaken by what happened in the forest. For someone to sneak up on her without her sensing it was scary to her. "I know that, Haku. Calm down. I could use Gato's men, but ever since that group got in town, they've been killing them off left and right while destroying the little pig's businesses. Honestly, I'm not sure anything less than a reunion of the seven swordsmen will help in this situation and we both know that ain't happening." Zabuza says. "Then what are we going to do?" Haku asked fearfully. "Honestly, I don't know. The [ __ ] wants us to move into his mansion and when the guys get here, we'll go. At least then we'll be surrounded by his thugs giving us the numbers advantage. We just need to hold on until they arrive in a few days." Zabuza says as Haku nodded. Unbeknownst to them, a near silent poof went off causing a certain blonde miles away to smile.