WHAT IF NARUTO WAS DARK, SMART AND COLD X HAREM?

Chapter 1, Revelations and Departure. It's the day of the third stage of the Tunin Exams. The entire village is buzzing with excitement, eager to see today's matches. However, the first match everyone is watching has the crowd on the edge of their seats. Everyone expects it to be an uneven fight as the participants are Niji Huga, the prodigy of the Huga clan despite belonging to the clan, and Narudo Usuzamaki, whom everyone except for a few, considers the reincarnation of the ninetailed fox rather than its jailer. The same brat who was always at the bottom of the academy, more concerned with pulling pranks than training or paying attention in class. They didn't expect the number one hyperactive idiot to be giving Niji so much trouble. He had just hit the stubborn blonde with his technique of the eight trigrams. 64 palms closing all his chakra points. But there was Naro getting up. I never give up. I never make mistakes. I said I would beat you for what you did to poor Hinata and show you that you can change your destiny. Narudo shouted. Understand? Kurama. Do you think I can get help? I won't be able to beat this idiot without chakra dot asked the fox in his gut. Sure, kid, but it'll have to be my chakra filled with malice. We don't want our cover blown. It's bad enough that you had to lock me back in that damn cage when that perverted old man checked the seal. Kurama, whoever he knows as the ninetailed fox, replied to his host and friend. Yes, Narudo and Kurama are friends. Despite what people believed, due to the attack on Naruto's birthday, Kurama was under the influence of sharing infirm a masked man who had ripped him from his previous host and summoned him in the middle of Kenoha. Actually, he was a good guy unless you messed with him, but that's normal for anyone. It was during the mission to the land of waves. After Narudo flew into a rage, believing Haku had killed Sasuke that Narudo and Kurama had a long pleasant conversation and came to an understanding. Over the following months, they grew so close that Narudo was able to open the cage that can find the fox and learn how to close it when necessary, such as when Jeriah checked the seal. Anyway, getting back to the fight, Kurama pumped his malicious chakra through Narudo to open his chakra points so that Narudo could win the fight against Niji. As Niji lay there, he wondered how he could have lost to this year's last place finisher and whether this guy had been right. The words he'd spoken during the fight echoed in his head, "Unlike me, you're a genius." But he could hear the crowd's cheers for Naruto's victory as they carried him to the stadium hospital. Narudo, on the other hand, couldn't believe they were cheering for him. Finally, they were recognizing him for who he was and for his accomplishments. What he didn't know was that someone had recognized him and gone to find him back in the competitor's box. "Thanks for the help, Kurama. It's so nice that you're encouraging me. I finally feel like I'm being recognized," Narudo thought said to Kurama with a wide grin. However, his smile faded when he sensed someone following him. So he stopped and reached for the sheath of his canai in his leg. You can come out now. I know you're there. Calm down. Calm down. I'm just here to talk. A figure appeared around the corner with his hands raised, showing that he had no ill intentions. Okay, talk. I need to go to the stands to watch the fights, especially the next one, so I know who I'll be facing in my next match, Narudo said in a tone that promised pain if he tried anything. Okay. I just wanted to talk to you because you remind me of your parents. I The figure in the robe was cut short by a canai to his throat causing the man to swallow slightly. What did you say? My parents? You knew them? Who are they? They told me they died the night I was born. But I never said who they were. Narudo shouted. His eyes, though still sapphire blue, now resembled two fox slits, indicating that he was trying to remain calm. But in reality, he was furious. This surprised the stranger. Really? No one's ever told you that. Even though you're the spitting image of your father, anyone should be able to tell the difference. I mean, you look a lot like Manado. He was interrupted again. The fourth Hokag. Was he my father? And he sealed the fox inside me. Why? He shouted, pushing the cany deeper. Yes, he was your father. But he sealed the fox because he couldn't ask another family to make the sacrifice if he himself wasn't willing to do it. Although I'm sure Kusha tried to make him reconsider and seal it back inside her. He said nervously as the knife sank even deeper when the Genturiki interrupted him again, his eyes now red. Naro was clearly furious. Everyone knew the red death, almost as famous as the fourth Hokag, also known as the yellow flash. How could no one have told him that she was related to two of the toughest men the village had ever produced, second only to the legendary Sanin? But what truly enraged him was what this stranger had said, that she was Kurama's former host, and that the fox knew he was about to get a beating. Nevertheless, Narudo addressed the cloaked stranger in a deathly calm tone, one that promised death. Who are you? How did you know my parents? The hooded figure was sweating profusely. I am an old adversary of your parents. I faced them both in battle, but over the years I earned their friendship. However, I cannot tell you who I am. I am a wanted man, and if it were known that I was here, I would die before returning to my seat. He sighed as he released the canai. "You'd better tell the truth. I'm going to see the old Hokag and get some answers right now. If I find out you're lying, I'll kill you. Narudo said in the same calm tone as he turned and ran out of the kaga box, yelling at Kurama along the way that why didn't you tell me that my own mother was your hostess and that it was my father who sealed you in me. You know how well I've wanted to know about my parents since I was 6 years old. Kurama aside that I didn't want to say anything because I felt guilty. I'm the reason you've had such a hard life and not just because of being sealed inside you. I told you how they controlled me, right? Well, when I came to, I was already chained up by your mother's adamant ceiling chains while one of my claws sank into the inrils of your parents when they were about to seal me inside you. I'm sorry. Naro stopped running when he heard this. Of course, he knew his father would have died because of the seal he used, and he knew that Genturiki usually died if the tailed beast was extracted from their bodies. But he had also discovered the Usuzamaki longevity and there was a chance they could survive the extraction if they received a massive chakra infusion and medical attention. But upon learning that his mother might have survived if not for Kurama controlled by the Jing jutsu, he swore to kill the bastard responsible. When he regained consciousness, he realized he was standing outside the kag box. Not one for politeness or propriety. Narudo kicked the door open and stomped on the Hokag who was ordering the ENBU to retreat upon seeing it was Narudo. Narudo, kid, what are you doing here? You should be in the competitor's box. Hokag lord, I suggest we speak in private unless you wish the vill's secrets to be revealed to the Kazak Lord. Narudo said with an unsettling calm, though his eyes were still red. This caught Huen Saratobi's attention. Narudo never addressed him with such formality, much less with such a serious, calm, yet unsettling tone. He nodded and followed Narudo into the corridor, moving away from the door. "So, what's this about?" he asked in a calm but curious voice. "You know perfectly well what this is about, old man. Why didn't you tell me about my parents? Especially since I'm apparently identical to my father and anyone who visits the Hokag monument can see his face or that my mother was the former genturi of the Ninetales and the Red Death. I asked you once a month for half my life. You know perfectly well how important she was to me. And don't tell me it was to protect me. I know they were bastards who probably had many enemies who would have to take revenge on them through me. Why did you lie to me? Narudo began calmly, but ended up screaming at the top of his lungs with tears rolling down his face. "How did you know?" the Hokag asked in surprise, only to realize that was the wrong answer at that moment because of the furious look the young man in front of him was giving him. Naruto's voice turned demonic, sounding as if he was ready to kill the old Hokag in front of him. The is that the first thing you have Tio say, "Listen, Narudo, I didn't tell you for the reason you guessed. It was to protect you. If the stone, the cloud, or even the mist were to find out that Manado and Kusha had a child, the assassination and kidnapping attempts would be endless. Your own mother was kidnapped simply because of her Uzumaki lineage. If it hadn't been for your father, they wouldn't have found her. Narudo was furious. I said, "Don't give me that [ __ ] Who else knows that?" Your sensei Kakashi was a student of Minado and was an A&BU assigned to protect Kusha during her pregnancy. And Jeriah, who was your father's teacher? And your godfather since they got your name from his first book, Tales of a Brave Ninja, replied the old monkey, knowing full well that he should tell the truth right now without knowing that it only made things much worse. That perverted old man is my godfather. Where the hell has he been all my life? I'm cursed if he's the village spy. He could have come to visit me once in a while. Sent me gifts, something to let me know I wasn't alone. Narudo roared. He was furious. He was going to castrate the perverted sage the next time he saw him. And Kakashi sensei knew and he did nothing. Didn't he tell me next? He chose to train Sasuke last month instead of his former sensei's son. I'm going to burn those precious books of his. Hi knew he had to calm the blonde genturiki when he saw the red chakra begin to bubble and surround the boy. Where do you think GMA came from or the money you received until you became a jinon? That was all thanks to Jeriah. As for Kakashi, he was one of the A&B you assigned to protect you, but he couldn't always be on duty. As for why he didn't tell you, I ordered him not to. I was going to tell you when you turned 16 or became a tunin, which judging by your level, you have a good chance of achieving. And the reason he didn't decide to train you was to prepare Sasuke for Gar. And he's the only living person who can teach him how to use the sharing. This seemed to calm the young man at least a little. The chakra cloak dissipated and his eyes returned to their sapphire blue, though they retained the fox-like slit pupils. I guess that's why the old pervert didn't tell me who he really was. Did you order him not to? Nar replied, trying to hold back his tears. Yes. Although he argued at length many times, saying that I was being cruel, that Manado and Cushino would be ashamed and disappointed in me for not telling you when you asked. The Hokag replied solemnly. "All right, I'm leaving, Lord Hokag," said the blonde man as he turned and left the stadium, oblivious to the pained expression on Herusen's face. "I can't believe he didn't tell me. And after all the years, I considered him my grandfather," he told himself. Kurama knew now wasn't the time to talk to Narudo unless he did something stupid. However, the fox noticed the jing jutzu spreading throughout the stadium and broke it instantly before Naro even realized it. Narudo didn't even notice the chaos around him as he walked back to his seat and quickly left a letter and his headband on his bed for whoever came looking for him, if anyone did. Then he noticed the battle raging outside, but he didn't care. This village can burn as far as I'm concerned. he thought as he packed the few belongings he had in his backpack and changed out of his orange jumpsuit, the kind that makes you want to kill me now, knowing he'd be identified when he left into black Ambu pants, black ninja sandals, a sleeveless black hooded vest, and a black face mask like the one Kakashi wore all the time. He pulled the hood over his head to try and hide his blonde hair and left his spot, leaping across the rooftops toward the gate that wasn't under attack at the moment, disabling anyone who stood in his way, leaf ninja or not. He stopped at the gate and looked back at the village. "Goodbye, I am old man Teni sensei. I'll miss you all. I hope you survive this so we can meet again if I decide to return," he said solemnly as he turned and leaped into the forest. Meanwhile, the aforementioned people stopped and looked up at the sky, sensing that something was wrong. But they were too busy evacuating or directing the evacuation to pay much attention to that feeling. The only thought that crossed their minds was, "Please be careful and stay safe." Narudo. Chapter 2. Concealment and repercussions. We found Narudo camping in a cave the night after he left the village. You should realize I left tomorrow if you don't think I died during the invasion," he said, looking up at the sky from the cave. "I wouldn't count on them thinking you're dead since Kakashi knows about the healing abilities I've given you, in addition to your Uzamaki genetics." "We should go. But where are we going?" Kurama asked curiously. "There weren't many places he could go that the leaf wouldn't immediately search for." Well, I know I shouldn't, but I'd really like to see the old folks Tuna, Inari, and Tsunami again. Not to mention pay my respects to Haku and Zabuza. I just hope I can trust them to keep quiet for a while. I need supplies since I left in a hurry," the blonde replied, knowing that the wave would probably be the first place they looked for him since it was the only place he'd been before that had treated him well. "You're right. You shouldn't, but they're the only people who are likely to help you once you reveal yourself to them, and they have the best chance of remaining silent. Narudo nods, stands up, and stretches. All right, let's go. And he jumps through the trees to wave back on the leaf. As evening fell, news of the third Hokag's death spread like wildfire, and everyone prepared for the funeral of those who had fallen during the invasion. However, some searched among the bodies for the missing. Among the search party were the rest of team 7, Kakashi Hitaki, Sakura Haruno, Sasuke Aiha, and Jeriah, the self-proclaimed ultimate pervert. "Where is that idiot, Narudo?" Sakura asked in her unusually loud voice. "Who knows? He's probably hiding in a corner like the loser he is," Sasuke said in his arrogant tone. "That's enough, Sasuke. You know Narudo wouldn't hide when people need him," Kakashi scolded. "And I don't know where he is. I suppose we should check his usual haunts. So spread out and if you find anything, use your radios. Sakura and Sasuke parted ways, though anyone could see that Sakura wanted to follow Sasuke, but she knew she'd get in trouble later, and she was secretly worried about her blonde teammate. However, just as Kakashi was about to leave, Jeriah stopped him. "Wait a minute, Kakashi." He said, "The YBU guarding sensei said that Narudo came to see you after his victory against that grumpy kid. Niji mentioning something about needing to discuss village secrets with him. Don't you think Naro learned some secrets he shouldn't have yet? What secrets are you talking about? The only ones he doesn't know are his parents. My god. Kakashi shuddters, realizing the implications. If they found out after all this time, especially after asking every month, he'd go crazy. The toad nodded. The question is, what would he do once Sensei told him everything to try and calm him down? I have no idea. We should pick up the pace, Kakashi said hurriedly. Okay, I'll go search his house. Give me a radio so I can contact you, Jeriah said, turning on the radio channel 3 for the two of us. We don't need emo and Banshee to find out about this. Sure, but do you have to call my students that? Sighed the copy ninja. They haven't shown me they can be anything else. The sanding shrugged, then headed towards Naruto's apartment, unaware that Narudo had left and had almost a day's head start. He was furious. 30 minutes later, Jeriah arrives at Naruto's apartment and seeing the open door and the lights off, feels an immediate sense of fear. He rushes inside and sees the place in disarray. Narudo, are you here? Then he tells Kakashi over the radio, come here now. Narudo isn't here. And with that, Kakashi appears using the body shift technique. This is bad, he said, looking around, only to immediately notice Naruto's headband on top of an envelope. Jeriah, he's worse than we thought. Seeing what Kakashi was looking at, he takes the headband, opens the envelope, and begins to read to the leader. To whoever finds this, I've left this village of lies and hypocrites. How could you praise and worship the fourth hokag and curse, reject and beat his son, or be my father's student, be a teacher and not even give me advice, or at least teach me anything more than how to climb a damn tree, or even my own godfather who had a legitimate reason for being away and indirectly looked after me. While I appreciate it, you act like just another brat and immediately refused to train me until I appeal to your perverted nature to get you to teach me. That said, you have taught me more than anyone else. So, I thank you. And if you wish to talk, you can contact me on Messenger. Now, go back to the village. Don't try to find me. You have dishonored my father, the yellow flash Manado Namicase, and my mother, the Red Death, Kusha Usuzamaki. You do not deserve my loyalty. To the people I cherish most, Sensei, I'm sorry. I want you to get your headbands back. I am and Tuchi Icharaku. Thank you for feeding me even when I didn't have any money to pay. You even treated me like family. Damn, you were the closest thing to family I had. I'll miss you all terribly. If Jeriah finds me and wants me to continue training, I'll ask you to send messenger toads to the three of you. Kakashi hate, have fun with the last Aiha and the pink-haired Banshee. I can just imagine your astonished face right now. Yes, I'm over hero now. Not once has she been even remotely kind to me. She's only ever hit me and yelled at me when I was just being nice to her. Yes, it may have been annoying asking her out so many times, but I did it to cheer her up when that gay duck ass kept rejecting her. To Huen Saratobi, you may have been like a grandfather to me, but that ended when I discovered you lied to me about not knowing who my parents were and ordered everyone not to tell me, even if it was to protect me. You have no right to contact me. And if you think the yinbu can find me, think again. You know perfectly well that I can escape them and anyone you send after me to the council. You do not own me. I may be the genturiki of the ninetailed fox, but I am a human being, not property. None of my kind are your new enemy. Narudo Uzumaki Namices. Both Jeriah and Kakashi pald. Not only did he know who his parents were, but they were keeping it a secret. Jeriah, however, was relieved that Narudo was still willing to talk to him. Kakashi knew he had at least a halfday's head start and with his speed could already be anywhere. Besides, with the stealth afforded by his jokes, he could mask his scent very well from the ninja hounds. Even if they tried, the only things he left undisturbed in the apartment were his headband and the letter. However, he smelled that he had disinfected the headband to somehow erase his scent, leaving the letter behind. Traces of his orange jumpsuit could even be found in a steaming pile in the corner. "What do we do now? If it's discovered that he left the village, they'll hunt him down relentlessly." Kakashi asked sadly, regretting not having taught his sensei's son more. We<unk>ll tell the council he was killed by the enemy during the invasion. We'll show this letter only to the three he mentioned and make them swear to secrecy. However, I'll go find him and see if I can reason with him, but I'm not getting my hopes up. He made it clear in this letter that he hates the village. Except for the people he spoke so fondly of. People I should be grateful to for looking after him while I was serving as the village's chief spy. He says seriously, looking at Kakashi, does he have any allies outside the village? Kakashi thought for a second. Only one place comes to mind, the land of waves. It was our first mission outside the village. A C- rank was promoted to a rank, a tyrant named God of God Industries. Jeriah interrupted him. Yes, I remember hearing that, but that doesn't explain why they would be his allies. As I was saying, he gave the people hope, something they lost after the public execution of their previous hero, Kaisa. Inari, the bridge builder's grandson, was the most affected. Thanks to Narudo, Inari was able to rally the villagers to build bridges and repel God's thugs with our help, obviously, or rather with Naruto's. I only provided support, but it was Narudo who sparked that hope. He even managed to connect with Zabuza, one of God's employees, who ended up being betrayed by his boss. I ended up killing Zabuz's apprentice that same day, which allowed Narudo to reach the demon of the mist in a fit of rage and anguish. It seems Narudo also befriended Haku before the fight, Kakashi said with a mixture of sadness and pride. That young man seems to have the power to befriend almost anyone. I see it now. So, the people of Wave will see him as a hero and an ally. The Sanines said now understanding. Very well. I'll send a toad there before going in person. In the meantime, I must speak with this Ayra and the Icharaku. They need to know. Kakashi nodded and switched frequencies. Team 7, come to Naruto's house. I have something to tell you. He said solemnly, making sure it wasn't good news. What is it? Kakashi sensei. Why does it sound so sad? Sakura asked. A drop of sweat escaped Kakashi. Seriously? and she was the smartest in her class. Just come. I'll tell you both when you arrive. Jeriah nodded and body flickered away with the card and the headband a few minutes before Sasuke and Sakura appeared. Sakura gasped and covered her mouth with her hands. Sasuke seemed impassive as always. Inside, he was shocked by the state of the place. Sensei where? Sakura began only to see traces of Naruto's orange jumpsuit burned in the corner. Sakura Sasuke Narudo was killed by the enemy, said the copy ninja as he picked up the orange remains. Sakura burst into tears. She might not have liked the blonde idiot, but he was her teammate and had saved her life twice, even if she wouldn't admit it at the time. Sasuke, on the other hand, was furious. Narudo was very much like him and knew loneliness and he saw the blonde as a worthy rival though he wouldn't admit it to anyone else. He was so furious that mark of the curse the power that Orochimaru had given him was slowly activating. Kakashi says this Sasuke calm down. I understand we just lost Narudo but don't let him succumb to your anger and cursed brand. Sasuke nodded and Mark he disappeared. What do we do now? the last Aiha asked, still angry. We<unk>ll notify the council so we can include Narudo in tomorrow's funeral. You tell your other classmates. I'll go to the council. Kakashi ordered and received a yes, sensei as the other students ran to tell their friends. Narudo, please forgive me if we ever meet again that he thought to himself as he headed towards the council chambers knowing this wasn't going to end well. Meanwhile, with Jeriah, Jeriah entered Icharaku Ramen where he conveniently found Ayra having dinner. "Well, this makes my job easier." Raa looked up from his bowl. "Lord Jeriah, what are you doing here? What do you mean by your work?" the confused Chunin asked. "Welcome, Mr. Jeriah. What can we offer you today?" Tuchi asked, also curious, but with a professional tone. I am, on the other hand, seemed nervous. What is Jeriah doing here? Where is Narudo? He thought, fearing for the boy he considered a brother. I'll have some miso ramen with pork. I'll explain why I'm here while I get a bowl. But what's said here stays between these walls, Jeriah said in a very serious tone, letting them know he meant business. A moment later, Tuchi handed his order to the Toad Sage. "Here you go. Can you tell us what's going on and where Naro is?" the ramen chef asked, thinking it must have something to do with Narudo. Very well, but as I said, what is said here stays within these walls and will not be repeated to anyone else. Understand? After receiving nods of approval from the three present, he sighed and continued. Very well, Narudo has left the village. He discovered his heritage and didn't take it well after the Hokag lied to him for half his life. He wanted you to recover this and he loves all three of you very much. He said and took out the letter. This will explain everything. Please read it quickly because by now Sakura and Sasuke will be spreading the official information. Kakashi and I will inform the council who died in the attack. Now this surprised Raa and the Icharaku clan, but they quickly read the letter and had varied reactions. Araka was shocked that he hadn't noticed. The resemblance between the fourth Hokag and Narudo was astonishing minus the whisker marks. Ayam was crying. She vaguely remembered Kusha, but her father did, and he seemed furious. He had never agreed with Herusen, not telling the boy he saw as his own about his parents, especially since his mother was his best customer. And any idiot should have been able to see the resemblance to Manado. He didn't need to be told to figure out who his parents were. Not with the children's insatiable hunger for ramen, their verbal tick, the blonde hair, the blue eyes. All of these were signs that Narudo was Kusha and Manado's son. Tuchi being the last to read it, handed the letter back to Jeriah, who put it in his pocket. Do we know how she found out? Tuchi asked, trying to contain his anger, but only received a shake of his head. Any idea where she's going? At least I don't feel like staying here any longer. I am seemed surprised to hear this though she admitted she didn't want to be there. Jeriah dismissed the idea. I'm afraid I can't tell you. It would be suspicious if you move to where Naro went. He was met with a furious glare from Icharaku which gave him pause. These two obviously considered Naro family just as he considered them equals. Very well. But if the civil council asks, you're leaving because of the grief of losing someone you considered family. We believe she went to the land of waves. he said only to see their acknowledgement upon mentioning his first mission outside the village. If you move there, I'll protect you for free. Just inform me tomorrow after the funeral. It would be suspicious if you left before, not to mention it would be considered disrespectful. He finished receiving nods of approval from the Ichuraku. I know I can't just leave like that being a tunin. But please tell Narudo that he has my full support in whatever he decides. Ayra said sadly knowing that he couldn't leave with the Icheraku knowing that they were leaving. Jeriah nodded, rose from his seat, and paid for his meal and enough to open a shop and wave, receiving a look of astonishment but gratitude from the father-daughter duo. Remember, as far as the village knows, Narudo is dead, reduced to ashes by the enemy, he said, receiving nods of agreement from everyone present. Before leaving, he turned his head and looked at the three of them. "And thank you for taking care of my godson while I was away, and he walked away to send the messenger toad off. I am start preparing our supplies and basic necessities. We're going to the land of waves," Tuchi said sternly, clearly hiding his anger at his daughter's nod as the town began to close after paid and left to prepare the funeral. Needless to say, reactions to Naruto's death were mixed. Most of the council feared the return of the ninetailed fox, while others were saddened by the blonde boy's passing. Among the rookies, most were shocked and saddened to learn of Naruto's death. But the news hit Hinata the hardest. The boy she loved had died before she could muster the courage to confess her feelings. It affected her so deeply that her father, sensei, and teammates feared for her well-being. She was still reeling from her near-death experience at Niji's hands during the tunin exam preliminaries and had now lost her inspiration and will to live. Speaking of Niji, he didn't know how to feel. But his greatest concern was Hinata. If she died from this news and the injuries he had inflicted, he would never forgive himself. The only ones who weren't saddened were Sasuke and Ka, both furious with their enemy. However, everyone prepared for the funeral tomorrow for all those who had died during the invasion with Narudo. As the morning sun began to peak over the sky, Narudo reached the bridge and was astonished to read its name. The Great Narudo Bridge. They named it after me, he said aloud, causing his friend and fellow tenant to burst out laughing. You're an idiot. Of course, they named him after you. You were the one who set that Inari brat on fire. The one who saved Milsami from being taken hostage, which led the kid to rally the villagers to help repel those thugs. However, you'll have come up with an alias if you plan on staying here for long, right? Kurama said, unaware that Jeriah and Kakashi had faked his death to prevent the council from judging him. "Well, yes, but I didn't expect a bridge to be named after me." "But yes, you're right. I need an alias," he answered his companion. But a cloud of smoke distracted him and revealed a messenger toad. "Well, that was faster than expected. Let's see what Pervy Sage has to say," said retrieving the parchment and the toad before jumping into a nearby tree to hide. Narudo, if this message reaches you, then Kakashi's assumption was correct and you did indeed take refuge in the land of waves. Now, first of all, I want to apologize for not training you immediately. However, it would have seemed suspicious if I had agreed to train you right away since you know I wasn't allowed to talk to you about your parents and that I'm your godfather. So, I had to feain disinterest when all I wanted was to train you. Even after agreeing to train you, I had to appear disinterested when I wanted to train you much harder than I actually was. If you agree to let me continue training you, I will make you a ninja your parents would be very proud of. As for the village, you were killed in the attack, so you don't need to worry about the tracker ninja or anything like that. I imagine you have a new appearance that people wouldn't recognize, and you've probably already realized you'll need an alias. Don't worry about or the Icharaku. I told them everything, showed them your letter, and returned the headband as you asked. You'll be glad to know that the Icharaku are leaving the village and heading to where you are, and I've offered to protect them on their journey. With this information in mind, please reply as soon as possible with the meeting place. If all goes well, I will be there in 2 days with your foster family. Sincerely, your godfather, Jeriah. Huh. So, it was Kakashi and Pervy Sage who found the letter. I'm impressed they chose to fake my death. Anyway, no one in the village would miss me. The blonde thought, "I don't know. That Huga girl seemed to like it, and I is going to miss you, and I'm glad you have support here, even if it's from the ramen people. And here, I was thinking I could get you to eat something more than that everyday," Kurama joked at the end. "Understanding ramen is the food of the gods. You know that?" Narudo screamed mentally. of such like father, like son. Kurama sighed. Kushino was just as bad with ramen. Gez, I think you could be worse. That caught Naruto's attention. Mom loved ramen, too? He asked enthusiastically. Kurama slapped his forehead as he realized the pile of worms he had just opened. Yes, she did. It was probably the only thing she ate, especially since she was pregnant with you. I'll tell you more about her later, but right now you should go to Tzuna's house and make sure you can stay with them and then answer Jeriah before they leave. Yeah, you're right. I just hope they're awake at this hour, Narudo said as he jumped up and headed towards Tzuna's house. 30 minutes later, Narudo arrived at the old drunken bridge builder's house. Pleased to hear the likely tsunami rattling in the kitchen, he took a deep breath and knocked on the door, lowering his mask so as not to frighten whoever answered. Inside the house, Tsunami was about to prepare breakfast to wake her father and son. But she heard a knock at the door. Who could it be at this hour? She wondered as she went to answer it. When she opened the door, she was pleasantly surprised to see the village hero on the threshold. Narudo, what are you doing here? He said with a radiant smile. Hey Tsunami, can I come in? I'll explain everything to everyone at once if that's all right with you, said Narudo with his characteristic smile. Yes, of course. Come in. I'll go wake up Dad and Inari, she replied. Thank you very much, she said as she entered and sat down at the family table waiting for Tzuna and Inari. A few minutes later, as if a stampede had descended the stairs, Inari rushed down and grabbed Narudo from his chair in a bone crushing hug. Behind him were Tzuna and Tsunami. "Relax, kid. I haven't been gone that long. It's only been a few months," Narudo said, laughing. Tzuna chuckled as well. "It's good to see you, kid, but you look different. Where's your headband?" However, as he finished speaking, the family felt the mood shift, and not for the better. That's why I'm here," Narudo said, his bangs covering his eyes. He explained the situation that led him to leave the leaf village. To say they were shocked would be an understatement. However, Narudo finished by saying, "I know it's a lot to ask, but could you allow me and possibly my new sensei to stay here for a couple of days while he's here with people I care about? I know I'm already asking a lot, but the people he's traveling with are ramen chefs. Is there a shop where we could buy some?" Now they were stunned. Narudo gave the impression that he was ready to move to wave permanently or at least long-term. Well, yes, we still have the rooms upstairs available. As for a shop/house available for your ramen friends, I think I can build them a place when they arrive, you know, so I can get details about what they're looking for and all. Tuna said, still recovering from the shock. Narudo beamed and bowed. Thank you very much. Tuna simply waved goodbye. Don't worry. I don't know if you noticed, but you're a hero here. Being put up for a while, and having a new business open for you is nothing, kid. Yes, I noticed. It's hard not to notice the bridge named after me, Narudo said earnestly. Oh, and I'd appreciate it if you didn't mention I'm here. The village might not be looking for me right now, but that could change if they find out I'm alive. Oh, of course. We'll just say you're a longlost relative or something like that. Tsunami spoke, understanding the trouble he'd be in, and by extension them for hiding it. "Thank you so much. I'll go unpack in the guest room, and then I'll come downstairs," the blonde said cheerfully. In his room, Narudo wrote his reply to Jeriah and returned it to the toad, who instantly vanished in a puff of smoke. "Now to relax for a couple of days and find an alias. Maybe I'll ask Tsunami and Tzuna after breakfast." Chapter 3. funeral and more revelations. Kenoha. It was midday and the sky was thick with rainclouds. A light rain fell from them, giving the impression that the heavens were weeping for the fallen. The entire village was gathered at the cemetery where numerous graves were filled with the coffins of brave Shinobi and Kunowichi, as well as the dead civilians who had been found since the invasion was quelled. Among them were Ayra, Jeriah, the Icharaka family, Kakashi, and the surviving members of the Naruki 10. Even Hinata and Rock Lee, gravely injured, were there trying to contain their grief over Naruto's death and the loss of the third Hokag. Akunowichi with purple hair, brown eyes, ruby red lips, and pale peach cream skin, a toned physique, stood before Hey Gecko's grave, concealed behind an A&Bu cat mask. She was dressed in standard ANBU attire. This was Yuga Yuzuki, cenamed Cat within the ANBU. However, she was seriously considering leaving the A&BU and possibly Kenoha altogether. She had heard that the Icharaku clan would be departing shortly after the funeral and that Jeriah had a student in need of a kjutsu teacher and she felt she should pass on what her late lover had taught her. Perhaps I should go with Jeriah and the Icharaku family. I have nothing left here. Hate is gone. We have no Hokag to protect and there's a good chance Danzo will become the new Hokag. She thought to herself. Jeriah stood there with a small scroll in his hand that Narudo had given him in the middle of the night and another scroll slightly smaller than the one containing the Toad summoning contract as requested by Narudo via message. He looked exhausted as if he hadn't been able to sleep at all. Damn. He'd better appreciate this. He thought as he remembered the previous night. Flashback. Jeriah had just finished his long day attending the council meeting and having to decline the Hokag position. He was asked to find his former teammate Sunady Syninju, his lifelong love, and try to convince her to return to the village to retrieve the hat. He knew it was a risky gamble, but he also knew he had to do his best or they would find someone like Danzo to take it, and that wouldn't be good. He was about to get into bed when his messenger toad appeared in his room in a puff of smoke. "Your students reply, sir," said the toad as he placed the parchment with the message in front of him, waiting for the toad toad to dismiss him. "Thank you. You can go and rest for a while. I'll call you tomorrow morning." The perverted Sanin sighed, took the scroll, and read it. Perverted sage, you were right when you said I came to wave. I'm staying with Tzuna, his daughter Tsunami, and his grandson Inari. They've been kind enough to let you, the old man, and I am stay with us until they build a house/ restaurant for the Icharaka family. However, I must ask that when you arrive, you don't call me by my name. If a young woman answers the door, ask for Tsunami or Tzuna. By the time you arrive, she should have figured out my alias. However, I have some things I want you to bring with you. Things that are rightfully mine. I want my mother's sword, all the scrolls from my parents' house or wherever they're stored, and my family's fortune. I'm sure Herusen kept them all while hidden so those greedy advisers could seize them. To make sure you don't run into any trouble, I've included a couple of vials of my blood in case there are any blood seals. If you're wondering how I know about blood seals and seals in general, Kurama taught me the basics of Fu and Jutsu. Furthermore, if possible, I would like to find a kjutsu instructor. As you may have guessed, I intend to use my mother's sword and make a name for myself. However, don't think you're off the hook. Teaching me is only the first step to your redemption. You have 13 years to make up, and I expect you're ready to do it, or you'll regret it. I expect you to keep my loved ones safe during the journey. If they arrive injured or worse, you can forget any chance of redemption. Narudo Uzumaki. She sighed upon hearing this. Damn brat. Those demands are too high. Getting the list of his things will be practically treasonous. Sensei had it locked behind the Hokag's vault. Everything. Only he knew the combination. To get it, I'll have to sneak into the Hokag's office. Decipher the vault's combination. Even the scrolls he's asking for. Using his blood is the least of it. But who knows what traps they'll set. I'm not worried about keeping the Icharaka safe. But the Kjutsum master is going to be hard to find, Jeriah thought, knowing someone might be listening, but finished aloud. Well, I'll find a Kjutsum master for my student later. Jeriah sighed as he sensed movement outside his house. He didn't realize it was none other than Yuga passing by on her way home. Hearing the puff of her summoning, he decided to investigate. However, he resolved not to eavesdrop any further and continued on his way to mourn Hiate's death and prepare for tomorrow's funeral. Upon sensing that the presence had departed, Jeriah stood up and used his skills as a master spy to acquire everything Narudo had demanded, even outwitting the A&Bu guarding the Hokag vaults as well as the Name's household for his mother's famous sword and sealed them all in a medium-sized scroll. End of flashback. After the funeral, Sasuke and Sakura approached Jeriah. "Master Jeriah, may we speak with you for a moment?" Sakura asked as politely as possible. "Ah, you're the Jinnon from yesterday," Jeriah said, remembering how he saved them from Gar and Shikaku. "Yes, we wanted to thank you for saving our lives. If you hadn't appeared when you did, Gar would have crushed me and killed Sasuke. So, thank you very much, Sakura said with a grateful bow, while Sasuke looked annoyed at not being able to defeat Gar alone that I should have been able to defeat that monster by myself. How am I supposed to kill Itachi if I can't even handle someone like Gar? Sasuke reflected. Don't worry about them. I'm glad I arrived in time. I was worried when I heard they were sent to fight Gar, said the Toad Sanin, expressing his concern. Whose brilliant idea was it to send them against the Genturiki? he thought spitefully. Flashback. Jeriah sighed as he defeated the three-headed snake with his summoning. He glanced at a beaky Marino and called out. I'm going to check the arena. I'm worried about the Hokag and Chunin hopefuls. With that, Jeriah headed to the stadium and saw a transparent purple barrier upon arriving. "Damn, a barrier, huh?" he muttered to himself, but received nods of confirmation from the ANBU outside the barrier. He turned and asked, "What happened to the Jinnon who were participating in the tournament?" We don't know. You'd have to ask Kakashi or one of the Joon fighting in the stadium below. All we know is that the Uzumaki came to speak with the Hokag and was very angry. We were going to stop him when the Hokag signaled us to retreat and left with the boy. We don't know where he went after that, but the Hokag seemed worried and upset upon his return. One of the ANBU replied. The wise toad sigh and goes to find Kakashi, which was easy enough after hearing the sound of the Kaidora thief lightning sword upon activation. Kakashi, where are the children? He asked as Kakashi pierced a sound ninja with his lightning covered fist. I sent Shikamaru, Sasuke, and Sakura after Gar and his teammates along with Packin. I just hope they're all right. You sent three jinnon, two of whom were probably tired from their fights after a possible Genturiki and his team with only your personal summoning as backup. Jeriah exclaimed, clearly wondering what was going through Kakashi's mind at that moment. I know it was risky, but they were the only ones we could do without. The rest of the enemies around here are highle Chunin and Jonan, so I sent them after those I thought would be the safest adversaries. After all, I trained Sasuke specifically for his fight against Gar. Kakashi said as he killed another sound ninja. Jeriah sighed, frowning at that logic and realized, "All right, I'll bring them back. But you should know that Narudo isn't here," he said, deflecting a canai. "Yes, I know, but I can't go looking for him right now. I'm tied up here. If we survive, we can search for him together. So, please help my team. If Gar is indeed a Genturiki, you're at a disadvantage," Kakashi said, his voice filled with concern for both Narudo and the jinon he sent after Gar, but he remained focused on the enemies surrounding him as he knocked out a sand ninja. Jeriah nodded and shot off towards the explosions in the forest. "You'd better be all right, brats. Especially you, Narudo, wherever you are," he thought. On the way, he saw Assuma helping Shikamaru against a group of sound ninja and received information from Shikamaru, who told him he had stayed behind as a decoy when they realized they were being pursued. Jeriah nodded and continued after the rest of the team, spotting Shino and his father against a tree. Shino's father explained that his son had chased Shikamaru and the others after seeing Kankaro flee the stadium, claiming he wanted his fight against the San Jinnon, who hadn't knocked anyone out, to be a knockout. He sighed and continued pursuing them, only to see the one-tailed raccoon emerge from the woods. "Damn it, I hope those kids are still alive. Taking a genturiki this far, they're in trouble." He cursed as he scanned the signs to summon the toad boss, Gamabanta. Jeriah, why have you? Gamabunta began to ask questions before seeing Shiku. If you were summoned to help you deal with Shikaku, the spirit of the sand, you are on your own. He finished preparing to disappear back to Mount Mayaboku. Wait, Ba, here are Jyn and bravely fighting the one-tailed dragon. If we don't stop them, they will die, Jeriah pleaded. The chief of the Toad sighed and took a drag on his pipe. Very well, but you'd better have Sake ready the next time you call me. Thank you. Now, let's save those jennon, Jeriah proclaimed as he jumped off Gammaabunt's head and approached Sasuke, only to see Sakura tied to a tree by the sand. What happened here? Sasuke gritted his teeth. I've been fighting this monster Gar for a while now, but Sakura and a dog showed up, drawing his attention, only to trap Sakura with the sand that bound her to the tree. It's getting harder and harder, and I'll crush her if I don't defeat him, but I'm out of chakra and can't do anything. He finished pounding the branch he was standing on, frustrated by his weakness and his inability to finish Gar off alone. However, Jeriah misunderstood, frustrated at not being able to save his teammate. "Don't worry, I'll keep it for you. Return to a safe distance, he said, leaping again onto Bunt's head, who is facing the now awakened Shikaku. Jeriah, we have to awaken the child that Shikaku has in his head. The little fool used the apossum jutzu and seated control to the one-tailed one dot shouted chief toad. All right, prepare some oil. We need to distract the demon before it can give that kid a good slap. Jeriah planned on the fly, knowing that the one tail was just a huge sand chakra beast. And with enough heat, they could hopefully slow it down and cause it enough pain to distract it and wake Gar up. As Gamabunta puffed out his cheeks, filling his mouth with toad oil, Jeriah went over the hand signs for a powerful fire jutzu, and they both shouted their combined jutzu fire style. Toad flame bomb. The attack hits, causing the arena spirit to scream and writhe in pain, which in turn causes the giant Toad to shriek. Now Jeriah, the super pervert, had already jumped off the Toad boss's head, raising his fist backward, ready to punch the sleeping genturi, but he missed and landed a foot away, which made him curse. "Get out of my head, human Shikaku!" he cried, still recovering from the attack, and continued to writhe. Jeriah, used to rolling around when Gamabunto wasn't happy with him, managed to stay on his feet by channeling Chakra into his sandals, preparing another attack against the sleeping Gar. This punch landed, waking a stunned Gara and a desperate Shikaku. I just arrived," the one-tailed raccoon said as it disintegrated into the sand, causing Jeriah and Gar to fall to the ground. Jeriah did a somersault in the air and landed on his feet while Gar crashed into him completely exhausted. That's when Timari and Kangkaro appeared standing protectively in front of Gar. Please don't hurt our brother anymore. Timari pleaded. This confused Gar greatly. Wy are you protecting me? I lost. I couldn't prove my existence. He said clutching his head in pain. Because Gar, despite everything you've done, you're still our brother and we just want you to go back to how you were before our father ordered that murder. Kangaro said without looking back at Gar, keeping a tired but fierce gaze fixed on the Sanin in front of them. You're right. We love you, Gar. We just want to be a family again, Tamari said without looking back. But Garin noticed the tears dampening the ground beneath his feet. That's enough. Let's go home. I'm tired of fighting. Gar said weakly as he tried to get up but couldn't muster the strength. "What makes you think I'll just let you go after you betrayed the leaf like this?" Jeriah asked sternly. "We<unk>ll make a full confession when we get home, but we'd appreciate it if you'd let us go home to confront our father first so we can get more details for the confession," Tamari said with a stern but disguised pleading look. A look that Jeriah noticed inside. "Very well, I'll give you a week. Send it to the Hokag and I'll make sure to tell him about our agreement, replied the perverted old man. Thank you, Lord Jeriah, Tamari said, lowering her guard as Kangaro helped Gar to his feet. Sasuke collapsed with an unconscious Sakura on his back. Why are you letting them go? The enraged Aiha demanded. That's enough. We have to go back to the leaf village and help. Narudo has been missing since his victory over Niji. Let's go, Jeriah said. authoritatively. Upon learning of Naruto's disappearance, he was surprised enough to return to the leaf village with a now awake Sakura, who was pretending to be unconscious. However, he failed because of a visible blush on her face, a blush that Jeriah noticed, but chose not to comment on a flashback. After completing their journey through the past, Sasuke and Sakura parted ways for the first time. Sakura not pressuring Sasuke for a date knowing it wasn't the right moment on a day like today. Jeriah was about to leave with the Icharaku family, but Yuga stopped him. Lord Jeriah, may I speak with you? She asked. The Sanin simply sigh and nods as he thinks. If these delays continue, we<unk>ll be late to the land of waves to meet Narudo. I'd like to accompany you to escort the owners of the ramen stand, he asked bluntly. Do you have permission from the council? Surely you can't afford to lose such a capable ninja as yourself for long after the losses we suffered. He replied knowing that she was a and you probably a captain as well. I asked someone close to me for a month's leave to properly grieve. She replied her voice conveying pain, sadness, and loss. Jeriah groans inwardly before I confirm or reject your request. Why do you want to come with me? It sounds suspicious, but he already realizes that it was her who was outside his window last night. "I heard you were meeting one of your students in wave and that he was looking for a kenjutsu teacher. I want to pass on what I've learned, or at least what I can pass on during my leave," she said, fully aware that she'd been caught. "Okay, but if you get into trouble with the board, it'll be your responsibility. But you should know that my student is very private about his identity, so I'd appreciate it if you didn't report anything." he said a little too politely. "Yes, of course. After all, I'm off duty," he said, unfased by the pressure. "All right, get ready. We'll be constantly on the move." After meeting up with my student and leaving the Icharaku family, "I have to go finds and I'll probably need help locating her and convincing her to come back," she said firmly, turning to address Naruto's foster family and tell them about joining their traveling party. After explaining it to them, they were cautious about the idea of an A&BU joining them. "Are you sure it's a good idea? Even off duty, finding out he's alive could cause serious problems," I am asked quietly in case anyone was listening. "It's better than denying it. It would look suspicious if we did. She should have invented her alias and changed her appearance by the time we arrived," replied Toad Toad in an equally low tone. Tuchi nodded, disliking it intensely, but she knew the Sanin was right. Jeriah spoke again. Besides, she's looking for a kenjutsum master. She learned and practiced with the finest swordsman the blade has to offer that. And I think that once she sees what he asked for, she'll understand everything. I know for a fact that she opposed everything and was one of the few people assigned to protect him, and she knows his situation, he concluded, dispelling the doubts of the father-daughter duo. An hour later, Raa stood at the village gates to say goodbye to the ramen shop owners. Though he was confused by a beautiful woman with purple hair, who was also there, he could see she wasn't a civilian. She had the aura of a skilled kunowichi, someone who had witnessed and caused many deaths. Sensing this, Yugao decided to try and ease his confusion, telling him she was taking some time off to grieve the loss of a loved one and would be accompanying Jeriah on his travels for a month. I reckon knew it wasn't the whole truth, but he decided to let it go. 15 minutes later, Jeriah and the Icharaku arrived. I am Tuchi, I wish you luck with your projects at Wave. I imagine it won't be easy starting over in a new country, said the academy professor. Thanks, Araka, but I have a feeling we'll be fine. From what I've heard, they practically worship our favorite fallen idiot. Tuchi chuckled softly, trying to look sad about Naruto's passing. I am also forced to smile, genuinely saddened by how few people were paying their respects to Naruto's portrait. The only ones who had were his teammates, herself, and her father, Yuga, Shikamaru, and Choji, and of course, poor Hinata, who seemed completely dead inside. However, she was pleased to learn that he had been added to the stone monument like so many other fallen heroes of the Leaf Village. Although she was certain that this cursed village would celebrate the death of the demon child or the reincarnated Q.B. and not see him as the hero he had been his entire life for keeping the Ninetales sealed away. Shall we go? We should arrive in about 2 days, barring any interruptions. I wouldn't want to be any longer, Jeriah said, shuddering at being so late. Narudo wasn't the most patient person in the world, especially when his people were involved. I just hope Narudo gets the message and finds his alias and new appearance before we arrived that he thought unaware that the A&BU traveling with them had a connection to Kusha and Narudo. Tuchi and I am chuckled, knowing why Jeriah was shuddering while Yuga was confused. And they knew she was obviously missing a vital piece of information, something she wasn't comfortable with. But she decided to keep quiet. What am I missing? And why do I feel like everything will change when I find out? Maybe. We found Narudo meditating in the water, working on his chakra control as he knows it's one of his weaknesses. Kurama remained silent but was thinking about his partner Alias. However, Narudo snapped out of his meditation upon hearing the messenger frog appear saying, "Urrent message from Jeriah. There's a new development." Narudo grunts and approaches the barge. "What's going on now?" he asks and picks up the scroll. "Narudo, I have everything you asked for, but it wasn't easy to get, even with my infiltration skills. Whoever they choose to be the next Hokag will probably notice the missing scrolls with the jutzu and the funds. As for the kjutsu teacher, I found one for you. However, she's an A and BU on leave. She goes by the name Cat. I don't know if you know her, but I warned her that you value your privacy. So, you'd better come up with that alias before we arrive and find a way to change your appearance beyond just your clothes. We'll arrive on time, barring any unforeseen problems along the way. However, I won't be able to stay in wave to train you. The council has asked me to find my former teammate, Sununade Syninju, and bring her back to be Hokag. I don't have high hopes, so I might ask for your help. However, if you refuse, I'll understand. I'll explain why I've been given this retrieval mission when I arrive. I am and Tuchi are doing their best and are excited to see you. Ria and Kakashi send their best wishes and will miss you, Jeriah. Narudo reflects that. I wonder why they need a new Hokag and why the old man didn't make the request himself. And Cat being my Kenjutsu sensei. That could be interesting. She was one of those who protected me from the shadows, keeping me away from people. I wonder how she'll react to seeing me alive. No, I know. Perhaps Herusen was injured and couldn't continue his duties. After all, he's an old man. What surprises me more is that you're not bothered that he can't train you immediately unless you help him and therefore the village. Kurama replied, "Well, of course I'm annoyed. Once again, someone is putting the people before me. However, I understand they need leadership. I just hope it's not too serious." The Ninetales knew that guilt would paralyze him for at least a few days if the third was seriously injured or died after his verbal attack on the old man. Well, if something happened, try not to blame yourself. He's an experienced warrior. He can take care of himself. As for this ambugato, can we trust her? Her duty is to the Hokag and the village, he asked after trying to calm his partner down. "Oh, her? Yes, she'll be fine. She took care of me before the academy, even personally driving me to the hospital several times. I never saw her face, but if she's free, I'll finally be able to meet her in person. Will anyone find a new love so soon? Kurama jokes. What? He's not like seven years older than me. He's older. That would be wrong. Narudo protested, eliciting a chuckle from the fox in his gut, earning a muttering hairy bastard, only to realize he should warn Tzuna and Tsunami about the extra guest and that they were already on their way. So he headed to Tazuna's house, receiving polite greetings from everyone, shy blushes from the women, and even free bags of food from a couple of shopkeepers, which he tried to refuse. But the shopkeepers insisted, saying it was a thank you for saving them and freeing them from God and his thugs. So he relented and accepted the gifts. He even heard some of the boulder women shouting at him, asking him to marry them and give them their child that I wonder if this is how Sasuke feels. None of these girls like me for who I am. They like me because of my fame, she thought, knowing perfectly well that they were fanatics. After walking for about 30 minutes through the village, she finally arrives at Tazuna's house and goes inside. She would normally knock, but Tsunami told her it wasn't necessary, that he was an honored guest and practically family to her and Inari. Hey Tsunami, are you here? She calls to the single mother. In the kitchen, Narudo, she replies. Of course, she's in the kitchen. If she's not cleaning or shopping, she's preparing food or just baking. She needs to relax sometimes. I swear she works too much, Narudo thought as he headed to the kitchen. I have food from the villagers. Where should I put it? He asked. Tsunami turns around, sees the gifts, and size. I'll put them away on the table in a little while. Thanks, but I can keep them. I don't want to feel like a freeloader, you know, the blonde says bluntly. Nonsense. You're a guest. Besides, I have a system for organizing things, and I can't find anything if it's not in the system, he said, finishing half jokingly, earning a bead of sweat from his guest. Okay, he said, giving up. By the way, is your father around? Jeriah and the Ichiaku should arrive in two days, assuming nothing happens along the way. Oh, and I'm sorry, but it looks like someone else will be accompanying them. Anyu from the Leaf Village, even though they're supposed to be off duty, he said. Tsunami seemed worried about the ENBU. She might not have known much about ninja society, but she knew that theu would take rogue or missing ninja back to their respective villages or kill them, depending on the situation. Are you sure it's safe for them to come here? What if they try to kill you or take you back? Don't worry. We just need to find me an alias before they arrive. I'll see if I can change my hair color. Maybe I'll go red or black. Anyway, we have 2 days. We'll be fine, she said, smiling reassuringly at him. Okay, as long as you're sure, she said, still unsure. Trust me, everything will be all right, the blonde said, then asked, "Where's Tzuna?" Tsunami realized she hadn't answered that part of the question the first time and blushed slightly with embarrassment. Oh, I'm sorry. He's working at that store for your family. Okay, thanks. Did he say where? He asked, wanting to warn him about the A and BU. No, she said she wanted it to be a surprise for you and them. She said with a warm smile. Damn it. Well, okay. I'm going to train. I'll be back for dinner, said the blonde as she left the house. Instead of going back through the village, he decides to stay near the house, move about 3 meters away and meditate again. Hey Kurama, is it possible to change your hair color permanently and make it natural for all your hair? M it is, but it would be painful because it would rewrite part of your genetic profile. What are you thinking? Kurama replied. I'm thinking of black. Maybe with red tips, the blonde replied. H that's possible, but I'm not sure I could do it in 2 days. I'd have to focus all my chakra on the transformation. It would greatly affect your chakra control since you've gotten used to draining your system all the time. I recommend you head back to the docks before you attempt to walk on water again, the Ninetales said with some concern. Two days with a significant portion of his chakra cut off was very risky, especially if his host was attacked in the meantime. Narudo nodded and did what his partner suggested. "Okay, go ahead," he said with determination. And with that, he felt weak and in excruciating pain. But he didn't scream. He did his best to endure the pain. He knew it would make his kind host worry about him. "Damn, I think I'll lie down and try to think of an alias," he thought to himself and limped in, avoiding tsunami so as not to worry her. Later that night, when Narudo didn't return for dinner, the single mother became worried and decided to check his room, only to find him sleeping with a pained expression. He must have pushed himself too hard and didn't want to worry us. He thought about it and decided to leave him alone. A day and a half later, the night before the arrival of Jeriah, theu and Naruto's family, Narudo woke up groaning in pain. Damn, that hurt. Did it work, Kurama? Yeah, but it's really affected my chakra. I'm going to sleep to recover it. We should be back to normal in a couple of days, said an exhausted Kurama, who quickly fell asleep without waiting for a response from his companion. Narudo nodded mentally and went to the mirror to check that the transformation had been a success. However, he saw that his normal blue eyes now had fox irises instead of the round irises of a human. Damn fox, it must be a side effect. I'll ask him when he gets closer. He went downstairs eager to eat before his shower tomorrow and saw the whole family sitting at the table. Narudo, what happened to you? Tsunami got up from her seat and ran towards him, noticing that his hair and eyes had changed. Oh, um, well, I told you last time I came that I had the fox inside me, right? He said, sounding a little nervous when talking about his companion. Even though they accepted him as himself, not as the fox, he received nods of approval. Well, I asked him to change my hair color, but I guess my iris changed as a side effect of him using chakra for the permanent change. But won't this give you away? Normal humans don't have irises like a fox or a cat, Tzuna said worriedly. Maybe, but who knows if this is permanent or not. I'll have to get some sunglasses or polarized glasses until the furball wakes up, he said with a sigh, knowing they were worried. He was worried, too, but he didn't have time to worry. "How long have I been unconscious?" "Your family will be here tomorrow at some point," Tunami replied, receiving a nod from her former blonde guest. "I guess I need to think of an alias quickly then," replied the now bold woman. In fact, Dad and I have been talking about it, and I always decided that if I had another child, I would name him Tumi. And since I can no longer have children due to an accident shortly after Iner's birth, I thought the name would be useful to you. Even if this Tooti officially adopts you, she said with a sad smile. In a way, she wanted to adopt him herself, but she knew that he wanted the ramen shop owner and his daughter as family, and that they deserve the chance to do so before she even mentioned it. After all, they had taken care of him. Everyone looked at Tsunami with comforting expressions, especially Narudo. Upon hearing her sad tone, Narudo stood up and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, which made her look up and say, "I would be honored to use that name. Thank you, Tsunami." The single mother nodded, tears welling in her eyes, and murmured, "You're welcome." before getting up to start her dinner. Meanwhile, Narudo thought he should tell Jeriah, Tuchi, and Aam about his new name and decided to go up to his room, but not before being stopped by Tzuna. "Hey, kid," Tazuna said. "Before you disappear, I just wanted to let you know that the house/shop will be finished in about a month." "Great. Thanks, you old drunk," Narudo said mockingly, earning a murmur of damn brat and a giggle from Enari. Once in his room, he called Gamakichi. Hey, it's been a while, Narudo. We heard you left Leaf Village. You should know Dad isn't happy about that. You should call him soon and explain everything. Yes, I thought I would have summoned him sooner, but I was out of commission for the last day and a half. But let's leave it at that for now. I have a favor to ask of you. Could you deliver a message to Jeriah for me? I don't know how to summon any other toads besides you, Gimitatsu, and the Toad boss, so I'm a bit stuck. he said somewhat worried that the Toad boss would be angry with him and hoping not to lose the Toad contract. They were a vital part of his life, even indirectly, especially since they were the only link he had to his father. The orange toad side, fine, but this is going to cost you dearly. You'd better have a big bag of candy ready for me next time we meet. You got it. Thanks a lot. Tell the chief I'll call him the day after tomorrow. I have a feeling it'll be tomorrow. Oh, and please don't mention my name. He's traveling with an A and BU. And I don't want that headache just yet, Narudo said with his huge grin, handing over the message. Yes, of course, but what should I call you from now on since I assume you've taken an alias? asked the orange toad. From now on, they'll call me Takumi, the former blonde replied. Okay, I'll let dad know. But you'd better keep your word. The longer you wait, the worse it'll be. Gamakichi. Narudo sighed. Dude, I should have told the boss during training the other day. I just hope he understands. Then he went downstairs for dinner. Conjura. Just as everyone was settling in for the night with Yuga volunteering for the first watch and Jeriah for the second, Gamakichi vanished along with them all, causing Aam and Tuchi to jump and Yuga to draw her sword defensively. This prompted the old pervert to tell her to retreat and go to the little toad. Gamakichi, I suppose my student sent you, didn't he? Yes. He asked me to deliver a message and tell you that he now has black hair with red tips, so you won't be scared when you see him. The toad replied, handing the scroll to Jeriah, who nodded and thanked him before going to tell his father what Narudo had said. What does it say? I am asked excitedly. Relax, I am. I'm anxious too, but we must remain calm," Tuchi said. Jeriah chuckled softly and opened the scroll, reading it before handing it to Aam and her father, who read it and nodded before returning it to their older traveling companion, who promptly destroyed it. "Sorry, Yuga, but you<unk>ll know everything when we meet him tomorrow, if he chooses to tell you," he said, looking at the curious Anbiu. "What is this child hiding?" he wondered as he nodded to the hermit toad. "All right, time for bed. We<unk>ll arrive tomorrow around noon if we leave at dawn. So get some rest," Jeriah said, receiving a nod from the excited family, knowing they probably wouldn't sleep a wink from the excitement of seeing their favorite klutz tomorrow. The next day, noon, the travel company arrives at the house described by Kakashi. "Well, that's it. Ready?" Jeriah asked. But Aam was already knocking on the door that I swear that sometimes that girl loves Narudo more than his sister. Tuchi and Jeriah thought in unison. Hello? Tsunami asked as she opened the door. Oh, it must be the ones Takcomi was expecting. And it must be I am Tuchi and that pervy sage he keeps talking about. She chuckled at the nickname Narudo had given the Sanin who collapsed to the floor like something out of an anime. The others laughed at Jeriah's expense, too. But honestly, it's a pleasure to meet you, Jeriah. And you must be the swordmaster who mentioned he'd be coming, she said, addressing the purple-haired woman with the group. Yes, although I'm far from being a swordmaster, there are others much better than me. I am Yuga Yuzuki, said the purple-haired Yanbu. It's a pleasure to meet you. You must be Tsunami. Thank you for welcoming our friend, I am said with a bow. Is he here already?" she asked eagerly. By then, Jeriah was already standing, having muttered something like, "Disrespectful children." before addressing the attractive mother. "Yes, thank you for taking care of him." "Oh, it's no trouble at all." And to answer your question, "I am? Yes, she's in the living room, eagerly awaiting your arrival," Tunami said, leading them inside. "I am Tuchi!" shouted the now called Takcomi as he hugged his substitute sister. Hello, Nadakcomi," Tuchi said, recovering using the alias in front of the overjoyed to see his adopted son and his best client. I am sobbed as she hugged her adopted brother, clinging to him with all her might, just as she had longed to do since learning everything. "Miss Yuzuki, why don't we give you some time to catch up? I'll show you the room we've prepared for you. You can check in later tonight," the single mother said, sensing the atmosphere and knowing that any sensitive information would indicate, she was certain her guests didn't want to be overheard by anyone else just yet. Yuga sensed this, too, and nodded, following the lady of the house. Once upstairs, I am reluctantly let go of him. "It's good to see you, Narudo. We were worried about you," she said. "He's very kind to you all, too. Although I was surprised you left the village, Narudo said with a smile. Tuchi seized the opportunity to explain to Narudo why they had left, leaving the former blonde shocked. Did you know? Was all he asked. I'm not sure, but I knew you had a connection to Manado and Cusha. After all, you were practically an exact copy of Manado with some of Kusha's features, not to mention her love of ramen," Tuchi said, a little worried that Narudo would hate him like everyone else who hid his parents' identity from him. Narudo looked down from behind his bangs, pondering this revelation that had made everyone nervous. "Well, that doesn't matter. You took care of me. You fed me when no one else would. So you have my eternal gratitude, old man. Narudo said with his usual smile, easing I am and her father's anxiety. It's the least we could do, idiot. Even if you weren't his son, I wasn't going to let you starve to death over something beyond your control. In fact, I am and I consider you a hero. Even though you made friends with the fox, said the old ramen boss with a smile and a nod from I am still tearful. Now, here's everything you asked for. Jeriah said, wanting to get to the point, taking the medium-sized scroll off his back. Narudo nodded and opened it, releasing its contents. Which scrolls contain what? He asked, carefully, lifting his mother's sword and holding it gently. But close to him, I'll take care of this sword. Mom, the small scroll above contains his will, which also includes details on how to access his fortune. I regret having to open it to find out where it was, as it was one of the things you requested. As for the training scrolls, they are in the larger scroll and all labeled by your father. However, that sword you hold in your hands is famous. Yuga will likely recognize it immediately. So, be careful, the sage said sternly, receiving a serious nod from his student. I'm not hiding her. She hasn't seen the light of day in who knows how long. Besides, if I'm not mistaken, she was one of the A and BU in my guard. However, I'm not sure if she can be trusted. We<unk>ll see if that's the case after we see her reaction to this sword, Narudo said with determination. Everyone nodded. After all, it was their decision whether or not to trust the offduty A&Bu. Now, Jeriah, first of all, tell me, why did the council tell you to seek out this tsunady and not the third? Everyone shuddered at the question. They knew it was coming and knew how he would likely react. I am was ready to comfort him. Jeriah took a deep breath. Hiran Siri died in combat at the hands of my other comrade, Orochimaru, during the invasion. Reports say he fought against a reanimated first and second Hokag, but he managed to defeat them and sealed Orochimaru's arms within the Shinagami stomach. "It's the same seal that contains the fox inside you," Narudo, Jeriah explained. Narudo was shocked. The old man died in battle saving the village. He was devastated. He was heartbroken, but he was also proud to have died protecting the village, inflicting a serious wound on the pedophile. He didn't even feel I am hugging him to comfort him. He didn't know how to react. Jeriah realizing this decided to remain silent about the rest of the information he had to tell Narudo until tomorrow knowing that withholding it wouldn't improve his chances of redemption. Tuchi also saw the contradiction on his adopted son's face, hoping he was all right, while Amam hugged him tightly. "Thanks for telling me. I need some time for myself. I'm going to the forest. Please don't follow me," Narudo said in a voice devoid of emotion, scaring everyone. But he knew he needed time to sort out his thoughts and emotions as he got up and left the house. At that moment, hearing the sound of opening and closing doors, Tsunami came downstairs with Yuga. "Where's Tkumi?" she asked, looking around her living room. "He learned something that left him in a very bad position, just like the rest of the village," Jeriah said solemnly. Yuga nodded, knowing what it was, the third Hokag's death. This Tumi must have been close to him to be so shocked, but that confused her. The only people she knew who were close to him were his grandson, his son, and Narudo, who was supposed to be dead. However, being a sensor type, this Tkumi had a chakra signature almost identical to that of the blonde prankster she guarded. "But it can't be him," Jeriah said he died at home, that only a scrap of his orange jumpsuit remained. Yugal thought and then she remembered the reports of Naruto's visit to the Hokag before the invasion began. Did he get fed up and leave the village? If so, I'm in a very awkward situation. As an ambu, I'd have to bring him back and that would cause problems for Jeriah and Kakashi, my former captain. However, I'm currently off duty and I never agreed with the third Hokag's decision. Kusha was good to me. To say she was conflicted was an understatement, but she decided to confront him after he calmed down and listened to his reasons for leaving. In the forest, he was in the forest where he had first met Haku. Thinking of the ice ninja brought a flicker of confusion to his face, reminding him of what he had learned from him. If you have something valuable to protect, I believe you will be truly powerful. Narudo cherished those words, but now he was giving up almost everything he held dear. Only Ayra remained whom he could no longer see without attracting the village's attention, Tsunami and her family, Tuchi, Ayam, and Jeriah. Provided he redeemed himself for his negligence. However, he had abandoned his lifelong dream and now didn't know what to do. He knew he would never return to the leaf village. He couldn't do so without arousing the village's curiosity. It was bad enough that an A&BU was there, and they were probably already curious about his proximity to the Icharaku clan, but he couldn't worry about that. He still didn't know how to feel about the news of the old man's death, despite withholding information he had requested monthly and the fact that Kurama was sealed within him. Had he possessed that information, he could have requested training from a young age to defend himself against the dangers that such information would bring if revealed, especially from his parents. He knew that Stone and Cloud would likely try to kidnap or kill him. Despite what people thought, he paid attention in history class, even if he avoided it and found it boring. He knew of his father's exploits and the enemies he made as a result. Narudo wouldn't have held a grudge against him if he had confessed immediately. With the way the village frequently beat and tortured him, he had to mature quickly. While his dream was genuine, his jokes and cheerful demeanor were a mask to keep him succumbing to despair and anger. However, he still loved the old man. Upon learning of his death shortly after their encounter, the last words he had spoken would haunt him for a time. He felt a sting in his eyes, and tears welled up. "Why, old man? Why did you have to die?" His thoughts darkened. Orochimaru, I swear that one day I will kill you. Even if it takes me years to gather the necessary strength, he vowed to himself. Calm down, kid. You're starting to resemble your old teammate, the Achiha. Don't let yourself be consumed by revenge and hatred. You're better than that. You were able to help me overcome my own hatred, even though I haven't completely abandoned it, Kurama warned him. Before they became friends, the old fox would have pushed his host down the path of darkness. But now he wanted to protect the light he still held within. No, don't compare me to that duck-headed bastard. I know revenge won't bring anything good. But I can't forgive Orochimaru. He killed the old man and is slowly staining Sasuke with that damn hickey on his neck. And you know as well as I do that he's guilty of much more than those crimes. Narudo snapped at his teammate. While that may be true, be careful. I know for a fact that your mother wouldn't want you to follow the dark path of life that said the fox, ashamed of using Kusha to try to calm his anger. Naruto grunts. Careful, fox. Don't use my mother like that. I probably already disappointed her by leaving the village in anger. However, you're right, but I want you to tell me everything you know about her later. Kurama sighed and nodded. He was going to do it as soon as he had calmed down and was thinking clearly. He knew that Narudo was still angry about the information about his parents that had been kept from him and confused about how to feel about the old monkeykey's death. Narudo sighed and apologized to Kurama. He knew he'd gone too far and Kurama apologized for using Kusha against him as he headed home exhausted from the day's events. Upon arriving, Aam rushed over to comfort him. Jeriah asked if he was all right. receiving a negative response from Blackhead, only for her to apologize and go to her room for a nap. Two days later, after lamenting his situation and shutting himself away, only venturing out to eat, Narudo went downstairs and sat with his hosts, his surrogate family, Jeriah and Yuga. "Are you all right, Tkumi?" Tsunami and I am asked in unison. "Yes, I'm fine now. Sorry for worrying you," Narudo replied. I apologize for the delay in the introductions, ma'am. I'm Tkumi, he said, addressing Yuga. I'm Yuga Yuzuki. I heard you need a Kenjutsu teacher, she asked. That's right. I recently acquired a sword, and I want to honor my mother's legacy by putting it to good use, she said with admiration and determination. That's very noble of you. But where is that sword? I'd like to inspect the weapon you're actually using, the Yimu asked, trying to confirm if Tkumi was really Narudo. I'm sorry, I can't do it. Not here, he said, seeing the purple-haired woman narrow her eyes as if asking why not. I'll show you after I pay my respects to two people who taught me an invaluable lesson. If you want to come with me, that's fine. The same goes for anyone else who wants to come, but if you do, I expect that perverted old man over there to come with you. He finished by pointing at Jeriah, complaining about disrespecting the kids, but agreed to go with him, curious to see who he was talking about. He went upstairs to retrieve the scroll containing his sword, and left the house with Jeriah, Aam, and Yugal following closely behind. Tsunami, his family, and Tuchi decided to stay and prepare dinner for everyone upon their return. An hour later, they arrived at the makeshift graves. Yugao instantly recognized the sword marking one of them. "That's the executioner's sword," Yugao said in amazement, earning a solemn nod from Narudo. "That's right. Zabuza Mammochi is buried here, as is a dear friend, his apprentice, Haku," he said with tears in his eyes. You said they taught you an invaluable lesson. What was it? Jeriah asked in a low voice. If you have something valuable to protect, I believe that's when you'll truly be powerful. Narudo quoted Haku, still holding back tears. Despite her emotional state, Yugao decided to confront the mystery of the darkness before her. Takumi, how do you know these two, the third lord, Jeriah, the Icharaku clan, and the bridgebuilder family? The only one I know who has connections to all of them is a leaf Shinobi presumed dead. Narudo wiped away his tears and looked at her with determination, knowing she would question the connections. I think that will become clear when you see the sword I mentioned earlier. He replied, pulling out the ceiling scroll containing his mother's sword. Are you sure about this, Brat? You're taking a risk with this, Jeriah said with concern and warning. He already suspects pervy sage. and I promised to prove it to him anyway, especially since he came here to teach me kenjutsu. You know, I keep my word, said the Genturiki, drawing his mother's famous red death blade. That sword, exclaimed the offduty and beyu, falling to her knees as she remembered her idol. Then she turned to glare angrily at the Sanin. You said he was dead. Jeriah like Narudo didn't understand why she was angry, but he asked one of his questions. Why are you so excited? Sure, you were one of the yian beu guarding me, but that doesn't excuse your excitement at seeing this sword. Unless you knew my mother. He glanced at the whiteboard and nodded. I knew Kusha Kakashi and I were assigned to look after her while she was pregnant with you and then I was assigned to protect you, but I was never allowed to interact with you as my job is to remain in the shadows. But seeing Naruto's expression darken, he wondered why he had left. I never approved of or agreed with the third Hokag hiding your parents' identity from you, but I couldn't tell you as much as I wanted to," he added, trying to calm his potential anger." Narudo nodded, understanding his inability to interact with him and therefore his inability to speak about his parents without jeopardizing his career. "So, what are you going to do? Are you going to try to lure me back to leave, discrediting this old pervert? or are you going to stay here for the rest of your leave and teach me kenjutsu? He asked the obvious question. Yugal thought for a moment. Before making that decision, could I ask why you left? She tried to confirm her suspicions, but Jeriah approached and handed her the letter Narudo had left in his apartment. As she read it, she felt a mix of emotions. Confusion about who had told him. Anger at those who had forced him to leave. at those who had had ample time to tell him, especially Kakashi, the fourth lord's student, and compassion for the young man before her. All of this conflicting with her duties as an A&BU, and her desire to help him. Lady Kusha would like me to help her son. I admired her. She was my inspiration to wield a sword, but doing this would be going against the village. Hey, what would you do? Jeriah and Narudo simply waited for her to make a decision. Jeriah ready to defend his godson and Narudo seeing her conflicting emotions confident that she would support him. After a few minutes, Yuga looked up from her thoughts. Very well, I'll stay and teach you. Lady Kusha and my late fiance would have wanted me to teach you. Your mother was the reason I took up the sword and my late fiance would have wanted me to pass on my knowledge, she said with determination. Just that decision alone has earned you a good reputation. Thank you, Yuga Sensei, Narudo said with a slight bow. However, please continue to call me Tumi in public. It would cause problems not only for me, but also for you, the pervy sage, Kakashi, and the wave people for helping me, he added, receiving a nod from the offduty A&BU who understood what he meant. Let's go home. It's lunchtime and from what I know about the Icharaka family and that tsunami woman, they'll worry about Narudo if we don't get back on time, said the perverted sage, causing the other two to laugh. At home during lunch, Jeriah decided to open up to Narudo. Seeing him in a good mood, without his mask, and in the company of trusted friends, he could be completely honest. He only hoped he wouldn't be torn to shreds, as everyone there liked the kid. Narudo, I need to tell you a few things before we start training, he said, prompting curious glances from everyone. What's wrong, you old pervert? asked the Genturiki, receiving only a light slap on the head from Aam, who replied. Don't be so rude. How about I tell you something very important about being my apprentice, he said, ignoring the comment/inssult and paying more attention to the stairs he was receiving. But he continued, "Have you heard of Nadashiko village?" he asked. Yugal looked surprised. "You mean that village of female shinobi? Don't tell me you tried to investigate there. You got caught and the consequences fall on Narudo." The wise toad was sweating. She'd hit the nail on the head while Narudo just sighed. "Okay, even if that's the case, what are the details?" The former blonde groaned. Jeriah slumped, knowing he would have to give all the details. Technically, Narudo, the first thing you need to know is that Yuga is right. It is an all female village, and yes, I was caught. However, instead of the usual beating, the village leader at the time challenged me to a duel for my hand in marriage, according to his law that states they must seek out strong male opponents, and if defeated, must marry him. We fought all day with neither of us gaining any ground. So, I asked that our meeting be postponed. She reluctantly agreed and I promised her that instead our students would one day seek each other out and fight if we didn't meet again. Sadly, I learned that she passed away a few years ago. Jeriah took a moment to compose himself, and everyone seemed fascinated by the story, but they managed to grasp its meaning and waited for the toad sage to confirm it, which he did. As you may have already deduced, that promise falls on you, Narudo, and on the current head of Nadashiko village who is probably about your age. "You've got to be kidding me," Narudo said incredulously. "You get caught spying, you get into a marriage duel with a village leader, you leave her hanging for who knows how many years, probably with no intention of keeping your promise. And now that I'm your apprentice, I'm supposed to find her student who happens to be the village leader or wait for her to find me and fulfill this inherited promise. Jeriah looked away embarrassed. First, you're mistaken. I fully intended to return, but war broke out and my partner and best friend at the time, Orochimuru, defected from the Leaf Village. I've been following him and another organization, so I didn't have time to return and keep my promise. Second, I didn't tell Manado because it was still wartime and he was already interested in Kusha, if not in love with her, and I wasn't going to interfere in his romantic life. If I had, you wouldn't be here right now. Okay, I get it now. You at least know the name of the current leader and my destined opponent," Narudo said in a defeated tone. He wasn't keen on having to clean up this old perverted mess. And really, the only thing he had to do to get out of there was stop being his student. However, the Genturiki knew he needed his godfather's help to learn his mother's and father's jutzus, so he was stuck. "Well, at least it seems he cared about his opponent. I just hope whoever his student is doesn't hate me for this agreement," he thought, knowing that if she didn't like this arrangement, this girl was likely to be furious given what she knew about women. Although, he had to admit she didn't exactly have the best role models, a whole class of fanatics, and a psychotic special Jonan. Unfortunately, no. However, I suggest we train you hard. That village may be inhabited mostly by women, but they are very strong and take their training and duties very seriously. "I was at my peak when I fought her, and she was able to keep up with me and match me," Jeriah said in an uncharacteristically serious tone. "Okay, but first, I think you said you had something else to explain. Why didn't you finish your fight?" Narudo said, sounding discouraged. Yes. When I was young, when I met the toads, they gave me a prophecy. I would travel the lands, write books, find and teach the child of prophecy, one who would bring either eternal peace or total destruction to our world. That's why I couldn't stay. And so far, none of the students I've taught have survived long enough. So, I hope you will, replied the wise toad. The former blonde man narrowed his eyes. Wasn't my father your only student? No. There was a group of war orphans in the land of rain during the last war. But among them was a boy with scarlet red hair and purple eyes with a wavy pattern. It was a legendary dojutsu, the Renegan, which was said to have been lost when the sage of six paths died thousands of years ago. The boy's name was Nagato. The other two were Conan, a girl with blue hair and orange eyes who learned to control origami with her chakra, and a boy just as loud and boisterous as you with that mask named Yhiko. I thought Nagato would be the child of prophecy, but it was a time of war, and he and his friends died in a skirmish against the reign leader, Hanzo of the Salamander. They were the only students I had before your father, Jeriah explained. I see. So, Nagato died in the war, and my father died sealing the fox inside me. Not the best track record, Pervy Sage. Narudo said dryly. Narudo, I am yelled at her adoptive brother. That was very rude. All right, you're right. However, I believe you can surpass them both, even without the reneg Narudo. I'll teach you everything I know, said the pervy sage. You mean that as long as he doesn't lose the toad contract for abandoning the leaf? The bold one reprimanded. They shouldn't, but we<unk>ll do it when we get there. For now, I think you should go call Gamabanta. You said you'd call him before you found out about Sensei's death. Jeriah reminded him, earning a grunt from his student. I'll come back eventually, assuming Chief Toad doesn't kill me. Narudo said nonchalantly. Forest outside the town. Narudo took a deep breath. He knew this wasn't going to go down well. Well, let's get this over with. As he bit his thumb to draw blood, reviewed the signs, and slammed his hand against the ground, using Kurama's chakra to summon the boss. Summoning jutzu, he shouted quickly, pulling out a scroll containing a bottle of sake he had received as a gift, knowing it would be an attempt to appease the chief of the toads. It was about time you called me. You're a brat who's always late," Gamabontis said, taking a puff from his pipe. Narudo bowed and opened the sake. "I'm sorry, boss. I received some news that left me a drift for a few days. I should have informed you or asked the pervy sage to send a messenger frog." The giant frog nodded. "Well, if this news is Harusen's death, I understand. However, you're right. You should have warned us. Now, are you ready to tell me why you left the village?" He said sternly. "Yes, chief. And since you're late, I've brought you this bottle of sake." Narudo offered him the large bottle, but it was small for the toad chief. Bunt nodded his hand to the bottle, and the former leaf ninja explained everything from how he was treated to the secrets they kept from him despite his monthly inquiries, even his inherited promise, which had nothing to do with his departure, but frustrated him and had finally come to light. Needless to say, Chief Toad understood. And to say he was annoyed was an understatement that I knew Jeriah should have told you. I'll talk to him, especially since he has something that will help you with the fox that he said in a voice that was too calm, promising pain for the pervert. This caught the Genturiki's attention, and he politely asked, "What do you mean, boss? The key to you, your seal? You left it to Jeriah for when you were ready, but if you've become friends with the fox, I'd say you're ready." Gamabunta smiled as he saw the young man in front of him smile at that information and responded with a big thank you which made him smile even more and dissipate to summon Jeriah in reverse and defeat him. Seeing the giant summoning dissipate, Narudo sighed in relief. Judging by what she said, he was allowed to continue summoning toads, which was a huge relief. He felt that everything would be all right except for the worry of when this Kunoichi would appear and challenge him. With everything settled, he returned home to relax for the rest of the day. Land of waves. After hearing the information from his godfather, Narudo excused himself so he could read his parents' wills. I am asked if he wanted her to come in if he needed comfort, but he declined, saying he wanted to read alone. She gave him a sad nod as he went upstairs. Once in his room, he placed a privacy seal on the door and windows, but allowed Jeriah and Yuga to sense his chakra if he were in trouble. He opened the wheels and saw the blood seal, took out a cany, cut his thumb, channeled his chakra, and decided to read his mother's scroll first. For my dear baby, this is your mother. Although I suppose you already knew that from the parchment, you know, I want you to know that I love you very much and have loved you since the moment I knew I was going to have you. So, please never doubt that. I'm certain you've grown into a strong and kind shinobi, despite your father sealing the fox inside you. This is something I fought against with your father with all my might, with what little strength I had left after it was taken from me. I didn't want you to bear the burden of being a genturi. Your naive father seems to believe the village will honor his wish for you to be seen as a hero. But I know better. As I write this and hold you in my arms, I can hear the fox attacking and destroying the village. And I know the villagers will resent the fox. If word gets out that the fox is going to be sealed inside you, knowing your father, he'll leave instructions for your status to be announced to the whole village. So you'll be seen as a hero for containing it. The people who lost loved ones to the fox will resent you. maybe even hate you. So, while I hope you'll remain loyal to the village, I won't blame you if you leave out of hatred. After all, everyone has their limits. Whatever you decide to do in life, you have my full support, even in death. Now, I entrust you with my sword, the scrolls containing our clan's swordstyle katas, the scrolls on our clan's fujutsu, which is far superior to standard fu and jutsu. and I name you heir to the main branch of the Usuzamaki clan and the fortune that comes with it. I know there must be other survivors. So if you go searching for our family, know that we are known for our red hair and our enormous chakra reserves. They may find it hard to believe you are an uzamaki, but the blood seals will help you. I don't have much time left, so I'll give you a warning. Beware of the man in the orange spiral mask with a sharing in my right eye. The only one the mask revealed. He was the one who removed the fox from me after the seal weakened from childbirth. You are a loving mother. Kusha Usuzamaki. Narudo stared at the letter his mother had left him, tears welling in his eyes. His mother loved him, fought against his father to prevent him from becoming a human sacrifice and hadn't even entertained the illusion that the village would accept him. She'd even said she would be proud of him and support him no matter what he did. Upon learning that there might be other Usuzamaki scattered around the world, she decided that while she wouldn't actively search for them, she would keep an eye out for them during her travels. After a moment to compose himself, he repeated the process with his father's will, bracing himself for the absurdity his mother had mentioned. To my son, I want to begin by apologizing for sealing the ninetailed fox inside you. I had no other choice. Your mother was weakened by childbirth and the fox's extraction, and she wouldn't have survived the resealing. Besides, I couldn't ask another family to give up their child if I wasn't willing to do so myself. However, I trust that this village, which I love so much, will treat you with the respect and reverence you deserve for bearing this enormous burden. Now, don't think I don't love you, because I do. From the moment your mother told me she was pregnant with you, I spent nothing to ensure your safety. I had my best ambu protecting you. One of them is my only surviving student, Kakashi Hitaki, and the other is a volunteer, Yuga Yuzuki, who seems to admire your mother. They both worked tirelessly around the clock, only taking breaks when I was home with her. As for your inheritance, I leave you scrolls about my own jutzu, the raising gan, and my improved notes on the herration that Lord Second developed. I only improved it. I'm also leaving you the money I earned from my ninja career. I have nothing else I can leave you. I would name you my successor as Hokag, but you're just a newborn. I hope you work hard and become Hokag someday so the village will respect you even more. However, be careful with my sensei. He may be incredibly strong, but he's a complete pervert. Don't let him corrupt you and turn you into one. Treat women with respect, not like objects. I'll leave you with one last piece of advice. If you ever get married, remember these words, a happy wife, a happy life. But this doesn't mean you have to do the impossible for them. There has to be a reciprocal exchange. Once again, live a long life, be strong, and make me proud. Your father and the fourth Hokag Minado Name. Narudo simply scoffed. His mother was absolutely right. A fool. Perhaps if his heritage had been revealed from the start. Yes, he could have been treated as his father wished, but it wasn't to be. He was an outcast. However, possessing the jutzu that made his father famous would be a great blessing. But his thoughts returned to his mother's last words. The man with the spiral mask with the charing gun, the man was responsible for the death of his parents and for Kurama's attack on the village. Kurama, do you remember anything from that night? Narudo asked his partner. Nothing but that damn sharing before I passed out and then came to with my claw embedded in your parents' stomachs, the fox replied. Narud nodded before saying, I will find this man and kill him. He is responsible for the attack on the village and the death of my mother and my foolish father, I suppose. Just remember what I said about revenge. Don't let it consume you, Kurama said carefully, knowing that Naruto's temper and patience had been greatly diminished. of I know but I need motivation to keep going. The dark-haired woman shouted. The fox said nothing and let his host calm down. Hey, I just remembered something I wanted to ask you. Is my iris permanently cut? Naro asked. It's a side effect of using my chakra to change your hair color. I used too much chakra and it affected your eyes and I can't fix it. I'm sorry. I must say you're lucky you didn't turn into a half demon with the amount of chakra I used. So, your fox eyes are the least of your worries. Kurama responded with a sneer. Narudo admitted his teammate was right. He could live with fox eyes instead of being a half demon, though it didn't matter anymore. He didn't care what others thought of him. They'd called him a demon his whole life. Becoming a half demon would have been a bitter irony. Understanding, do you know where the Uzumaki clan village was? Since mom said there were survivors, it means it was attacked and destroyed at some point that the former blonde man asked. I'm not sure. My two previous hosts have only been inside the leaf. Maybe you could ask that perverted godfather of yours, said the grumpy fox before muttering that I'm going back to sleep. You shouldn't need me anytime soon. You lazy bastard. Naro thought to himself before dropping the seals and going down the stairs. Naro, are you okay? I am was the first to notice and saw his tear stained cheek before hugging him. Once again, I swear that girl loves him more than a brother. She's always the first to greet him with a radiant smile, the first to comfort him, and she always gets furious when someone hurts him. "It's not that I mind him dating my daughter, despite his responsibilities to that village leader, whose community is composed entirely of women," Tuchi thought with a mocking smile. Almost all the other adults present shared the same thought. Okay, I am. Let your boyfriend breathe before you suffocate him, the ramen chef joked, managing to get his daughter to let go of the brunette with a full blush and earning an embarrassed dad from her. Narudo blushed slightly, but it felt strange to call him Aam's boyfriend, especially since he considered them family. "Yes, I'm fine, I am. Thank you for worrying about me, he said before turning to Jeriah and Yuga. I want to start training tomorrow beginning with the raising Ganan since we have little time. We<unk>ll also cover kjutsu. They both nodded but Jeriah decided to ask. Before that, Narudo, you've been using the shadow clone jutzu for 3 or 4 months. Have you noticed anything when it dissipates? Huh? What are you talking about? Narudo asked confused about what the old pervert meant. Yuga and Jeriah side using a kjutsu for months and not knowing its full potential or even noticing it after so long. Only a dense fool like Narudo. "Narudo, create a clone for me and follow one of mine out of the house," Yuga said as she summoned a clone of herself. Narudo nodded, did as instructed, and the clone followed the offduty A&BU. Outside, Captain Narudo and Captain Yuga headed toward the forest where Kakashi had taken Narudo to train. "This should be enough?" Captain Yuga said before noticing Captain Narudo looking around with a sad smile. "Is everything all right?" he asked. "Yes, it turns out this is where Kakashi taught Team 7 the tree climbing technique," he said in a voice filled with sad nostalgia. "I see. Well, that should make this even more impactful. I want to ask you a question and then we'll both say our goodbyes, she said, maintaining her disciplined demeanor, but she wanted to comfort the young man. He had been through a lot in the last week, but she supposed had accepted this job as his sister. Naruto nodded, waiting for the question, "What do you plan to do now that you're technically an independent shinobi? It's simple. I'll have Pervy Sage train me properly in stealth and infiltration and improve my combat skills to protect myself from that organization that's hunting me and people like me. I'll probably take on solo jobs, bounty hunting assignments, and even help other ninjas with important jobs that get out of my hands. However, I don't plan on joining any other villages or returning to the Leaf Village, he said with determination and conviction. See, Yuga looked at him in astonishment. Being so young and so determined, it shouldn't surprise her because with the life he leads, it's natural that he's forced to mature quickly. And that carefree image was just a mask. "Then I'll help you in any way I can with the time I have," she said as she hit the crow clone on the head, dispelling the young man's clone and releasing the jutzu herself. Back at Tuma's house. Everyone was enjoying a catching up conversation when Narudo suddenly looked up. "Huh? What was that?" he asked. Yugal looked at the former leaf jennon and asked, "Well, do you remember everything that happened?" She nodded, holding her head and trying to remember everything. "We went to the forest where I learned to walk in the trees, and you asked me about my plans for the future," she said before falling silent to think. Yuga and Jeriah remained silent, letting him resolve it on his own. Aam was about to speak when her father stopped her, thinking it was important. Tazuna's family also remained silent. Wait, you mean this happens every time one of my clones dissipates? I never noticed because I was distracted or in the middle of a fight and didn't have time to process it. But what does this have to do with anything? He asked visibly confused. Everyone, even the civilians side and understanding. Narudo, think about it carefully. If you gain the knowledge and experience your clones acquire each time they appear, what if you used it for training or spying? Jeriah asked. Naruto's eyes widened. Wait, you mean it can be used to accelerate training? He realized but asked for confirmation. It would be possible to use it for that. Yes. However, it's dangerous for ordinary people. Someone like Yuga or I can only make five maybe 10 clones before we get exhausted. The Sanin asked looking at the offduty A and BU who nodded. Even so, we wouldn't be able to use it for effective training since the chakra is divided equally between each clone. So, we could only create one or two for training, which would speed up our training perhaps two or three times. Whereas you, who can literally create a thousand clones, like you did with that traitor, Mizuki, could accelerate your training drastically, some two or 300 times faster than it would normally take. Yuga finished her explanation, leaving a stunned Narudo and the equally astonished civilians. "Then let's begin," Narudo said excitedly. Wait, Narudo. While you're retrieving information from your clones, you still need to train in physical aspects like bodybuilding or kjutsu, Jeriah said, trying to calm him down before he got too lost in his fantasy. Well, that's a bit annoying, but I guess it makes sense. But what about muscle memory? Can I use it for that? He asked, trying to decipher the details of his ace in the hole. Jeriah and Yuga exchanged a glance before shrugging. I suppose, right? But if you plan to use it for your katas, I wouldn't. Muscle memory leads to muscle growth. Speaking of which, we need to improve your diet. You can't eat ramen for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Sanin said, earning an alarmed look from the raven-haired woman. You're right, Naro. As much as we appreciate you eating our ramen for years, if you want to get stronger, you need a proper diet that includes vegetables, I am said, receiving a nod from her father. Narudo sighed. Okay, it doesn't mean I have to like it. Now we should talk about your training besides the raising gan. Is there anything else you'd like to work on? His godfather asked. Well, kjutsu obviously and few and jutsu. Oh, and Chief Toad said to give me the key to my seal. Narudo listed, ending with a meaningful look at Jeriah, earning a start from the Toad Sage. Listen, Narudo, I don't think it's a good idea, Yuga said, only to be interrupted. You haven't read the letter yet, have you? Let me tell you something. I'm already friends with Kurama, also known as the ninetailed fox. He hates being sealed away. He's promised not to break the seal and will even cooperate with me. I just need to open it, Narudo said, not being entirely truthful. But they didn't know that he had already torn the paper seal from his mind. All right, I'll give it to you tomorrow, Jeriah said reluctantly before turning serious and continuing. However, Narudo, the longest we can stay here and train is a week. We need to find and convince her to become the fifth Hokag before the old man gets impatient and appoints Danzo, which would be bad news not only for Kohaa, but for all the elemental nations. Danzo is a man who lives for war. In his opinion, Kenoha should be the strongest village and he'll stop at nothing to achieve it. He also believes that ninjas should be ruthless and emotionless, that emotions prevent them from doing what needs to be done. Narudo simply shrugs. What happens in Kenoha is no longer my concern. And before anyone interrupts, I'll help you finds, but I won't help you convince her to return. It would be hypocritical of me since I have no intention of returning. As my clone told Yuga in the forest, Jeriah just sighed. He had hoped Narudo could convince Sununade to become Hokag, but he reckoned it was a long shot. Then he realized he didn't know what his clones were talking about. "By the way, what exactly did you two say to each other? I think I should share it with everyone here," he asked. Yuga nodded, but looked at Narudo for confirmation. She got only an exasperated sigh and a shrug, suggesting he didn't care. She sighed, waiting for a more definitive answer, but went on and told everyone what Naruto's clone had told hers. To say that everyone except Yuga and Narudo was surprised would be an understatement. You want to learn real espionage on top of everything else, all while taking on solo jobs like bounty hunting or whatever, as well as helping other villages with important tasks. How much have you thought about this before leaving the village? because it's clear you've been mulling this over for much longer than just the few days since you left. Jeriah asked, his voice clearly surprised. That's right. I want to learn all of that. As for how long I've been considering all of this, I've probably had it in mind for a long time. Maybe almost my entire life. But it's really taken center stage since I met Haku. And even more so since I first met you, Pervy Sage. You're so strong and yet you're barely in the village. That's the life I want to live. A life of freedom without any strings attached, Narudo said with the same determination and resolve as his clone before turning sullen and continuing. But I guess being free isn't meant to be since I'm practically betrothed to the leader of that all female village. Naruto, I am sad. Looking at her brother's figure with admiration and a slight blush on her cheeks. Haha, I like your spirit. Okay, I'll teach you everything I know. I just hope you're ready for the pain because espionage training won't be easy. But first, let's focus on your training dot of raising Gan and Kenjutsu. Besides working on that terrible chakra control you have, Jeriah chuckled. All right. All right. Before we finish any training, I think we should rest a bit. It's been an emotional day for everyone, even if some of us are just here. But not before we eat something. I am. Would you help me in the kitchen, please? I'd like to talk to you about something," Tunami asked, hinting at something more. "Of course," the nervous girl replied, grasping the hidden meaning, and headed to the kitchen with the older woman. In the kitchen, Simony started preparing dinner, trying to make enough noise to overwhelm Naruto's sensitive hearing. "So, miss, you care about Narudo as more than just a brother, right?" she asked the ramen apprentice without looking back, for she already knew the answer. W? What do you mean? Yes, I've known him my whole life. I've treated his wounds before, and I've even listened to him when he needed someone to talk to, but even if I wanted to, I can't have him. Like he said, he's practically engaged. Not to mention, he's the one who started calling me sister. I doubt he feels the same way. I am began somewhat embarrassed at being caught, but ended with a dejected tone, revealing her depression. I see. Well, don't get discouraged. Even though he's practically engaged, it's not final. If I understand what Jeriah said, Narudo and this girl still have to fight. Even if he wins, I have a feeling Narudo won't accept. Unless this girl is really beautiful. So, don't lose hope. There's still a chance, the older woman said, trying to comfort her. Thank you. But even if I could be with him, I'd need help. I'm sure his stamina shows in bed, I am said, blushing deeply. Wow, I didn't know you wanted it so badly. And I'm sure you're right. Tsunami chuckled, blushing just as much as she had. Anyway, let's finish up. I know Narudo doesn't like being kept waiting when it comes to food. Oh, believe me, I know better than anyone. She complains about the 3 minutes it takes for instant ramen. The younger girl laughed. Back in the living room, Tzuna and Jeriah were enjoying drinks while Narudo and Inari waited for their food. Only Narudo was blushing, having overheard I am and tsunami despite his attempts to muffle the conversation. I am a he wondered unable to believe that someone could love him like that of their own free will. He didn't know what to think. He had always considered her a sister, his best friend, the only person he could always count on to be there. Understanding Kurama, "Are you awake?" he asked his partner. By much as I wish I weren't, yes, I'm awake and I know what you want to ask, but it's up to you to decide what to do with this information. However, I will say one thing. He's right about one thing. You'll need several partners to satisfy you, he said. Kurama as monotonous as ever. It doesn't honor thought as a blush spread across his body. The only response he received was a grim laugh from his inner fox. Damn furball. Six days later, abusing the secret of his clones, Narudo mastered the raising gan in two days. He was able to do it with one hand. The rest of the time, dedicated to perfecting his kjutsu with clones, studying and practicing fu and jutsu, he was surprised by his fondness for seals. Jeriah was astonished, but then he remembered why the Uzumaki clan was known and the reason why three villages had joined forces to destroy their island. His chakra control also improved considerably thanks to the training raising Ganon to his continuous duels of walking on water. Now in the forest, 200 clones were studying advanced fu and jutsu scrolls while he practiced the katas from his mother's scroll. Yuga was nearby observing his form, ready to correct any mistakes. However, Jeriah wasn't in town. He had gone out to meet with one of his contacts, hoping to get information onsunady's location. He told them he would return tomorrow so they could start the search. But with a bit of luck, the informant would have her location, and they would just have to hurry there and convince her to return to Kohaa as the fifth Hokag. "All right, Narudo, start dispelling your clones. It's getting late. You know how I am and tsunami get if we're not back by dinner time," Yuga said, glancing at the position of the sun. Narudo nodded, put away the practice sword Yuga had bought him, and dispersed his clones in groups of five. "Very well, Sensei, go ahead. I need to meditate and analyze all this information. Tell them I'll be there soon," he said and sat cross-legged. She sighed and nods. "Don't be long. Remember, we're going to look for Sununade tomorrow. You should get some rest," she says as she heads towards the house. So Kurama, how close do you think I am to being able to start training in the herration? He asked the grumpy fox inside. Not for long, kid. It's not just about few and jutzu. You need to learn the theory of spaceime, work on your physical strength and speed. It could still be years, Kurama grumbled. He just wanted to get some sleep, and for that damn door to open again and work properly. Maybe even for its host to change the scenario in his mind. Well, well, I'll open the door as soon as Jeriah takes back to Kenoa. After all, he knows I won't be coming back. Which reminds me that I need that pervert to teach me how to summon messenger toads so I can stay in touch with my loved ones while I'm traveling. The dark-haired woman promised the fox, reminding him of the promise he made to stay in touch. Receiving no response from his tenant, Narudo got up and returned to Tsunami's house. "I'm back," he shouted. "Welcome. Go wash up. Dinner will be ready soon. I was told your godfather will be back at nightfall, Tsunami said from the kitchen. Thank you. By the way, dinner smells wonderful as always, she said before going to the bathroom to shower. After a quiet dinner, there was a knock at the door. Huh? Who could that be? Takumi, can you open the door? Tuna said using Naruto's alias just in case. Narudo nodded, put on his mask and hood, and went to open the door. However, as soon as he opened it, he tensed up. Standing in the doorway was a leaf village. Can I help you, sir? He asked, trying to be as polite as possible. Is Jeriah of the Sanin here? I was sent with a message from the elders. The ambu with the tiger mask. No, sir, but you'll come back at nightfall if you want to leave the message here. Narudo asked as Yuga approached the door, sensing her students nervousness. "Tiger, it's not like you to accept a messenger job," he said curiously. "Ah, so this is where you disappeared." The commander didn't like your sudden absence, he said disdainfully. But before turning to the masked youth, "As for your inquiry, young man, I was ordered to deliver this message to Jeriah personally." Narudo had to restrain himself from growling at the disdainful tone when speaking to his sensei. Let me ask the man of the house if he's okay with you waiting. You don't need to bring me to Kumi. I should ask you to wait for me at the tavern. Mr. Umbu, the people of Wave have heard about the celebration of our village hero's death. And as mayor, I can say we're not happy about it, Tzuna said sternly. And if you need to ask who that hero is, the bridge you crossed is named after him. Tch. Very well. I'll wait there as you requested. Please tell Jeriah to meet me there as soon as I arrive. I don't want to stay in this polluted and backward village any longer than necessary. Tiger snapped as he walked away. It was true that Jeriah received news from that most of Kenoha celebrated Naruto's death, especially the civilian population. The Shinobi clans and rookies did not share this sentiment, particularly the Huga clan, due to Hinata's daily decline in mental and physical health. It was as if she had lost the will to live, especially after the second kidnapping attempt during the invasion. Tazuna was puzzled by the unannounced appearance of a Kenoha Enu officer at his house, especially so soon after Naruto's arrival. He observed and saw the same thoughts running through Narudo and Yuga's minds if their faces betrayed anything. Had Jeriah informed the council about having a student there? If so, it was a very risky and foolish move. After closing the door and making sure Tiger had done his duty, everyone gathered around the table. This isn't right, especially since he didn't seem to be one of your biggest fans, Tuchi said, having overheard the entire conversation. Narudo simply nodded, trying to calm himself. "Not to mention that it seems theu division isn't happy that you took leave so soon after the invasion," Jeriah said, emerging from the mouth of a toad. "Well, one, that's disgusting. Two, how long were you listening to the old man?" Naro asked, visibly irritated enough to hear the disdain in her voice. I sent the toads back to the village to check on things. The celebration has almost completely died down and the Huga Aerys seems to have found a way to move on after her opponent in the finals. Furthermore, her team, the Inazuka, spoke with her. I don't know what was said, but she's found her reason to fight. The Toad Sage said, earning a sigh of relief from Narudo. Now, Sununade is in Tanzaku village with her apprentice and pupil, Shizun. However, Orochimaru was seen directing her with his right-hand man, Kabutoo. Just as those words reached Jeriah's lips, he sensed an overwhelming amount of key, killing intent emanating from Narudo toward Orochimaru, his eyes glowing red and blue. Tsunami, Irani, Tzuna, and the Icharaka struggled to stay conscious under the pressure. Yugal fell to her knees while Jeriah leaned against the wall, calling to his apprentice, "Calm down, Narudo. You'll alert the A andu." Not to mention, "You're scaring everyone." The Genturiki turned his head away from Jeriah before glancing around, assessing everyone's condition and taking several deep breaths to compose himself before speaking. "Go with the A&BU and see what those old council members want, and we'll leave immediately." I promised myself that Snake would pay for what he did to the third Hokag. He needs to see Sununade to get his arms healed, he said with a deep growl he could barely contain, leaving no room for discussion as he stormed upstairs to gather his belongings. A minute later, everyone had regained their composure. Although the civilians in the group were still shaken by what they had just witnessed, I've never felt or seen him so angry. I am said, watching Narudo climb the stairs. Tuchi could only nod, but Tzuna couldn't. He'd only felt it once before, though on a much larger scale. It was on the bridge during their mission. It was when he thought his partner, that Achiha, had been killed by that ice shinobi, I think his name was Haku. I was scared to death. I thought my heart was going to explode, said the bridge builder. Jeriah nodded, knowing that this was the first time Narudo had unknowingly harnessed the power of the Ninetales. Or so he read in the report. Sounds like something he'd do after feeling the loss of a comrade, he said, standing up. I should go and do what Narudo said. I'm already on thin ice with him. Knowing him, he won't want to stop until we reach our destination, so be prepared, Yuga. All she could do was nod and follow her student and take her things from the room prepared for her. and I am. 30 minutes later, Jeriah returned from the bar looking grumpy. Narudo and Yuga noticed. I guess they didn't give you good news. Yuga asked. You're right. We have 10 days to convince and rescue or they'll appoint Danzo Hokag. The pervert said, earning a snarl from Narudo. There's more. The council and your commander seemed to know you'd be here. Yuga, since they sent something extra for you, he said, handing a red scroll to the offduty A&BU. Upon taking it and reading it, he fell to his knees in shock. I've been discharged from A&BU, and they would have discharged me from the shinobi group if they had had the authority. My fate will be decided after a new Hokag is chosen and sworn in," he said incredulously. The dark-haired man clenched his fists and growled even louder. Come on, we have even more reasons to bring back to the leaf village. Jeriah was angry, too. Yes, if Danzo is appointed Hokag, he and the council will likely attack his supporters next, especially the Hugeris. I can't imagine what they'll do to her. Why Hinata specifically? Narudo asked, clearly confused as to why she had been chosen like that. Yuga and Jeriah looked at him with serious expressions. Really? That's the village's bestkept secret. That girl was so hopelessly in love with you that the only thing that stopped her from attacking and claiming you was her family and by extension her self-confidence. Everyone in Kenohan knew it. "Well, except you, because you're a naive idiot," Jeriah said, his tone mirroring their expressions. "Wait, what?" Narudo had a stunned expression. And seriously, brat, did you really think she blushed only in your presence and fainted every time you recognized her? Kurama said with an exasperated sigh that unbeknownst to them, the two adults shared. She wasn't sick. She blushed and fainted because she was crazy about you and your recognition was too much for her. Wait, does Hinata really like me like I like Sakura? asked the dense red head. No, Narut. As Master Jeriah said, "This girl was truly in love with you. She would have been happy to be your girlfriend, even if she'd had enough confidence and her family had allowed it, which is highly unlikely, even for the son of Lady Kusha and Lord Manado. And before you ask why, it's because she's the heir to the main branch of her clan," Yuga said. "Not only that, but the Huga take pride in their pure bloodline, so they will probably pressure her to marry someone from the clan." Jeriah explained. I think I understand, but wouldn't Hinata be safe because of her title as Aerys? The teenager asked. Normally, yes, but she has a younger sister who, according to my friend and Hinata sensei, the Huga clan considers more suitable for the position and would give it up at the slightest disappointment. I wouldn't be surprised if after she recovers from her injuries in the Tunin exams, her father placed her in the family branch with Niji for having lost him. Yuga said solemnly. "So, if they put her on the family branch like that fatloving idiot, will she no longer be safe from Danzo?" The dense idiot asked, slowly putting the puzzle together. "Yeah, why hide the adults?" And Kurama shouted, unable to believe how slow he was. Narudo took a step back when they reached three and shouted, "All right, then let's go to Tanzaku. You have to convince and I have a date with Orochimaru." They all nodded, knowing that he now understood the importance of the mission, even if it was a detour, that he was focused on the two objectives, and that nothing would stop him. After all, he was the most stubborn and unpredictable shinobi they knew. Be careful, Narudo. You'd better come back alive, I am said, clearly worried about her sweetheart. I agree with my daughter. After all, it wouldn't be right if you weren't here for the grand reopening of our ramen shop and didn't eat the first bowl. Tuchi chuckled, hiding his concern for the young man he considered his son. And even though Narudo Uzamaki is officially dead, this town wouldn't be the same without its hero returning from time to time. Tzuna said, joining in the farewell. Tsunami and Inari simply nodded. Hey, who do you think I am? I may have given up on my dream of becoming Hokage when I left Kinoa, but I'm not going to die while there are still valuable people waiting for me. Besides, even though I didn't ask for it, I have a duty to duel the new female leader of that village. I need to live until I fulfill it," Narudo said, glancing briefly at his godfather. Jeras simply shrugs while everyone laughs at Naruto's usual attitude. "All right, all right, let's go. We can reach our destination by dawn if we leave now and go full speed without stopping. If we don't hurry, there's no guarantees will be there when we arrive. Yuga and Narudo nodded and ran off closely followed by Jeriah. What dounade and that shisen woman look like? We<unk>ll need that information to locate them, Narudo asked. Although I'm not sure how olds looks since she uses her healing jutzu to stay young. She had blonde hair, brown eyes, and a purple diamond seal on her forehead with the biggest chest I've ever seen," Jeriah said with a sly grin before noticing his companion stares and clearing his throat. "As for Shizun, she's a young woman with jet black hair and Onyx<unk>'s eyes. She's rarely far from her pet pig, Tonan." His companions nodded and silence fell over them as they traveled. Dawn Tanzaku village. The three-wave travelers arrived at the gates of Tanzaka's gambling town. The two adults exhausted and drenched in sweat. The teenager with them only looking a little out of breath, but otherwise perfectly fine, looking as determined as ever. All right, Takumi, it's time to use those clones of yours. Summon about 50 and spread them out throughout the village. That's their original purpose after the jutzu infiltration. Meanwhile, we<unk>ll find an end to rest a bit, Jeriah said wearily. Narudo nodded, knowing his godfather used his alias in public and obeyed, creating 50 shadow clones and deploying them. I can help with the search. I'm still ready to go, he said stubbornly. Listen to Kumi. Jeriah and I are exhausted, and we won't know if your clones find our wound if you're alone. So, please come with us. We'll need to rest if we're going to face that snake, Yuga said, trying to reason with the dimwit. Narudo nodded in agreement with that reasoning. Okay. Anyway, I could use some food. Elsewhere in the city, an hour later, we find and Shizun in a pub with slot machines with Sununade playing the machines and winning a lot of money with her young pupil smiling excitedly at being able to pay off some of his mistress's debts, completely forgetting about his bad luck and the bad omen that winning also brought. "This is incredible, Misssunade. You should stop while you're ahead. We can pay off some of our debts with this," exclaimed Shizun.ade Tsunady remained silent after the 10th round of victories. "This is bad. Something is going to happen and it's going to be very bad." "Shun, we're leaving," she said to her young companion. "Um, okay," said the dark-haired girl nervously as she followed the older blonde out of the pub, only to be bumped into by a dark-haired girl with red highlights. "Hey, be careful," said the teenager. "You bumped into me, brat," growled. "Watch where you're going. Huh? said C N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N taking a closer look at who he had bumped into. Huh? Excuse me, but may I ask your names? I'm Tkumi. Sorry to bump into you. Why do you want to know, Brad?Sunady said, getting into a fighting stance. Lady, Shisun muttered under her breath before addressing the young man in front of her. I'm Shizun. Nice to meet you, Takumi. See, Narudo smiled subtly. I caught you. The pleasure is all mine, Shizun, he said with a gentlemanly bow. What do you want, kid? We're busy, Sununade said, clearly distrusting Tumi. Does this kid think he can fool me? He's clearly a shadow clone. Someone's after us and using him to do it, thought. Oh, I would just like to accompany you, ladies, as payment for finding you. Takumi said, hiding his nervousness at seeing look, which meant that she realized he was a clone. You can stop acting like that, brat. Tell whoever sent you to leave me alone or they'll regret it,"Sunady said before smacking the clone on the forehead. Shisin spoke as the boy in front of her disappeared in a puff of smoke. "A shadow clone?" Shizen asked. "Who do you think is chasing us?" "I don't know, but if I had to guess, it would be the leaf village or Orochimaru." "Debt collectors wouldn't hire a shinobi. They're too expensive for their budget," Sununade surmised. Either way, it's not good. Let's go to the hotel, pack our things, and leave as soon as possible. But if it's Kona, we should at least see what they want. What if something has happened and they need our help as doctors? Shisen tried to reason with her mistress. You know as well as I do that I won't go back there, even if they call me. I'd rather be considered a missing ninja, declared fiercely. Lady Sununady, that's going too far. My uncle wouldn't want you to become a missing ninja. He wouldn't even want you to suffer so much, said her apprentice solemnly. Don't bring Dan into this, Sununade said and slapped the dark-haired woman, sending Shizun crashing into a building and knocking her unconscious. Damn it, I lost control of my anger and strength, the slug Sanin said as she went to check her students vital signs. [ __ ] I broke her jaw. Even with my jutzu skill off Mystic Poms, it's going to take her a few days to recover. Even so, I'll have to apologize to her," he said, helping her up and mentally regretting losing his temper. On a nearby rooftop, another Narudo clone saw everything and decided to follows from afar to get the exact location so the original could guide his companions to their objective. With Narudo and his group, Jeriah, Yuga, and Narudo decided to share a room to save money, but they could only find one with two beds. Narudo insisted on giving Yuga one of the beds while he kept the sofa for himself. Though Yuga reluctantly agreed. Truthfully, she was flattered by the gesture. Jeriah was given the only available bed due to his age. Despite his protests, Yuga and Jeriah rested their eyes, knowing that Naruto's clones wouldn't take long to find information. While Narudo devoured a meat sandwich he'd ordered from the kitchen. I found them, Narudo said, feeling his clone's headache dissipate, andsunade knew he was talking to a clone. Both adults opened their eyes and asked what had happened. After she told them what had occurred and that she had ordered her clone to go in pairs, they decided to rest a little longer and wait for the exact location. What do we do? Threatened Toukumi's clone, Yuga asked. We have our mission. We need to speak with her and try to convince her to return to the village or else our days of peace will end. War will reign. The shinobi will become mere tools and women will be used as breeding stock. Not to mention that your host is in danger and Danzo's first target would be wave for reiging on the trade agreement they had with Kenoha after celebrating Naruto's death. We have a lot at stake on this mission, Jeriah said sternly. I start like this, Danzo. Less and less. I'm about to go back to you and kill this fossil myself," Narudo said, trying to contain his anger. His eyes a mixture of red and blue. As funny as it may seem, Danzo has his own special team. Even if he denies it, that protects him from all threats. "Even if you manage to defeat them, they'll put you at the top of the most wanted list and hunt you down for the rest of your life. Even if you manage to escape the village alive," Yugao said, now speaking as a former Yinbu. Narudo simply shrugged and went back to his sandwich. While Jeriah looked at his apprentice with concern, wondering if he was mentioning death so casually, he decided to keep an eye on him and make sure he didn't stray too far down the path of darkness. Suddenly, Narudo tensed and said darkly, "He's here. One of my clones saw Orochimaru enter through the east gate and headed toward that castle. I see. Then things are going to get interesting. Let's wait and see what happens. We don't know enough about what's going on, Jeriah said, already knowing that Narudo would protest. Fine, but as soon as that snake tries to contacts, we'll intervene and make him pay for killing the third Hokag. Narudo said angrily, clutching his head again. Speaking of which, I know where his hotel is. It seems something happened that caused to lose her temper and slap Shizun, throwing her against the wall and breaking her jaw. Damn it. It must have been something really serious for her to hit Shizun. She considers that girl her own daughter, even if she doesn't show it. Jeriah frowned before continuing. Come on. Even though now isn't the best time to talk to her, she's going to need our help, especially since she'll be dealing with Shizun and at a disadvantage. She won't risk her apprentice getting hurt any further. Naruto simply nodded. "Hurry up. I'm not staying here waiting any longer," he said, pushing his way through the door and prompting his sensei to quickly follow. "Atsunate's hotel." Sununade was crouching over Shizun, using the misty palm technique to heal her jaw. Feeling terrible for having lost her temper. She knew her fallen beloved was a sensitive subject, but she believed she had come to terms with his death enough not to lose her composure like that. However, it seemed she was wrong. I promise Shisen, she said in a regretful voice before hearing a knock at the door. Who is it? I'm busy, she said angrily. It's Jeriah here. Do you mind if I come in? said the wise toad through the door. Jeriah, how did you find me? asked Princess Slug. I believe you encountered my new student earlier today. Jeriah said student. That bratty Shadow clone noticed. "Hey, I'm here too," Narudo shouted, covering his mouth at the sound of his tick. "Damn it, I always do that when I'm upset, and I'm not a kid." "So that's how you found me. I had more than one clone out there." "Okay, come in. I can't open the door right now," said the older blonde. Forgive us for intruding, Missade, but we are here for an urgent matter, Yuga said as she entered the room. And who are you? Judging by your attire, I'd say you're an Ian Beu from Kinoa said on guard, but without taking her eyes off Shizun X. Unfortunately, I'm Yuga Yuzuki. I was recently dismissed from my position inu, which is partly why we came to find you, ma'am. the former andu said trying to maintain her professionalism. Very well. What is it you want? said, finishing healing her proteges jaw. You get straight to the point, huh? Very well, Sonade. The old vultures of the council have sent me to bring you back to the village and make you the fifth Hokag. Hi. Sensei died when Orochimaru used the Chunin exams to incite Suna and his new village Odo to attack Leaf Village. Jeriah began to explain, butsunade interrupted him. "Did that snake kill the sensei?" he asked with a grunt. "Yes, but not before sealing Orochimaru's arms, stripping him of his ability to perform jutzu," Jeriah declared, receiving a nod from his former teammate. "Now, I know this will sound like I'm trying to force you to return to me and Yuga. But if you don't come back and take the hat with you, Kohaa, as you know it, will die. Danzo will seize this opportunity to take control and destroy the belief upon which your grandfather built the village. The will of fire. Narudo snars. Not only that, but if I listen to what this bastard said, the war will return to the elemental nations and the shinobi will become mindless, emotionless drones. Remained silent, pondering. Give me one good reason why I should return to the village where there are only horrible memories and regrets. Besides, being Hokage is foolish. Husen Sensei was lucky and lived a long life, but everyone else, including my grandfather, died young. Being Hokag is a death sentence, said coldly. Narudo growled. Would you disrespect the Hokag of your village, your own grandfather, knowing they died protecting the population from threats that would otherwise have reduced it to ruin? Takcomi, calm down, Jeriah said sternly, turning to the slugs, Sanin. And for good reason, aside from what my apprentice said. What if Danzo has no qualms about labeling you and Shizun as missing ninjas or turning all Shinobi of lineage, regardless of gender, into breeding stock, whether they're from the village or not? If I'm allowed to be selfish and offer a personal reason, my status as a Kunoichi could be revoked. You see, I requested a leave of absence because my fiance was killed during the exams. I needed time to grieve even though the village was in ruins. Yuga explained her reasons. I understand you need time to grieve, but why did you leave the village? Why are you here? Asked. I left because I heard Jerus apprentice needed a kenjutsu teacher. And hey, my fiance wanted me to pass on my knowledge, so I accompanied him to where Tkumi was staying. He explained as vaguely as possible, earning a quiet, grateful nod from the young man in the room. Nodded, accepting his vague answer. There's another reason we're here. Orochimaru has been cited in this village and we have reason to believe he's here to convince you to heal his arms, Jeriah said sternly. And what does it offer you apart from bringing me back to a place I never wanted to return to? To warn me about the intentions of my former colleagues? He asks, looking around. Revenge? Narudo growls, trying to contain his anger. He killed someone very dear to me. I intend to make him pay. Takumi scolded Jeriah. My intention was to warn you and possibly join you in finally putting that snake behind bars or on the ground if arresting it wasn't possible. Sonat nodded. Hirusen's plan to eliminate Orochimaru sounded appealing, but she was curious about the masked teenager in the room. Before I give you my decision, I wanted to ask who he is. Takumi, she paused, receiving nods from everyone present. Who is he? Why is his face covered? and why does he want to avenge Sensei? This surprised the adults though they tried to hide it well. Narudo, on the other hand, simply asked, who said he took the third Hokag from me? After all, he's killed thousands of people for his experiments. That's true, but judging by how angry you got when I said being Hokage was pointless, and by your obvious hatred for Orochimaru, I suppose you were close to him, though I don't know to what extent, but the timing is just too convenient. the slug princess retorted. "Do you want to know who I am?" Narudo growled, his eyes flashing red and blue, while sununade nodded as Jeriah and Yuga simply watched, knowing they couldn't stop him without raising more suspicion. "You're the granddaughter of the first Hokag, Hashiamaramaju, and Mido Usuzamaki, which means you have at least a quarter Uzumaki blood, so you should recognize this sword," she said, unshathing her mother's sword. Benahheimsade gasped. How did you get this sword? Enough with the beating around the bush. Who are you? She demanded. Narudo removed his mask, revealing his fox-like whiskers. I am the son of Kusha Usuzamaki and reluctantly the naive Manado Namicase. I left the Leaf Village after discovering that Herusen was hiding the truth about my parents from me. even though I asked him about it constantly once a month ever since I was old enough to speak. This made me wonder if they loved me or if they had abandoned me. "Do you have any idea what happens to a child?" he said in a suppulcral voice that betrayed pure malice and hatred. Yet he and a select few were the closest thing I had to family. He was like a grandfather to me and that snake killed him while he was fulfilling his duty as Hokag protecting the village. was stunned, waiting for the boy to continue, noticing he was taking a moment to compose himself. But his next statement left her speechless. And even though I gave up when I left the village, I once dreamed of taking the old man's hat and becoming an even greater Hokag than any who came before me. And NwakiSunady thought, even so, isn't it a little hypocritical of you to try to make me return to a place you yourself left behind? she asked, hiding her sadness. To be clear, I'm only here to prevent my Kenjutsu instructor from being dishonorably discharged and to stop this Danzo from turning the elemental nations into a war zone. I still have people I care about there and elsewhere, who will be in danger if you don't return and become Hokag. The rest of the village can burn in the darkest circle of hell. So, I care about what they did to me my whole life. I will die protecting my loved ones. After all, as a friend once told me, "I believe that if someone has someone or something valuable to protect, that's when they become truly powerful." Naro said sternly, "This boy never ceased to amaze her. Even though he'd left home, he still wanted to protect his loved ones. I understand why you left and that you want to protect those you care about. Hell, I understand why you defended the name of Hokage, but you realize that if I return and accept the position, I'll be forced to label you a rogue ninja, right? Actually, you wouldn't do that unless you wanted to ruin not only my reputation, but Kakashi hates as well. Narudo is for all intents and purposes dead to the village. You see, even though the village hates Naruto's existence, they would never let him roam free for the same reason they hate him. He carries the ninetailed fox within him. Therefore, they wouldn't want to lose their precious weapon, Jeras said with such disdain that his opinion was almost obvious. I see, said. I suppose the council saw him as a weapon, and the civilians saw him as the fox himself, she asked, only to sense an unfathomable key. And to her surprise, it was coming from the Gentur key in the room. Don't mention that again," Narudo said in a demonic and deadly voice that promised pain if they pressed him any further. "Enough with the games. Give us your answer. You've been stalling ever since we walked through that door. Will you return to Kohaa and help us fight Orochimaru? Or will you stand idly by and let Danzo take control, destroy what Kohaa is supposed to stand for, and leave you and your apprentice branded as rogue ninjas?" He said, his patience exhausted. Narudo, calm down, Jeriah said before Narudo turned to look at him. Don't interfere. I don't care if you love her so much. She's been avoiding giving us an answer, even though we've been honest. I've even risked my neck and my freedom to try to do your job and convince her to come back before the council gives the hat to Danzo and everything goes to hell, Narudo. Jeriah shuddered. And so did Yugao, knowing her student was right. They needed an answer, especially since Orochimaru was probably looking for it at that very moment. Taking a deep breath to calm his anger and stopping Kurama's chakra flow, he looked back at the slug sanin. Well, was all he said. She stood there surprised that a child as young as her grandson could remind her of her late lover and her brother, despite his harsh and insensitive attitude toward her at that moment. She knew he was right, too. He was stalling, hoping Shizun would wake up and talk to her. I'll help you fight the snake, but I need to talk about going back to Shizun when she wakes up. That involves her too, and I won't make the decision for her,"Sunady said firmly, receiving a nod from Narudo and a sigh of relief from her companions. "That's fair." "Oh, and before you ask, I was blonde before the fox changed my hair color." And Tumi is the alias I use to maintain the illusion that Narudo Usuzamaki died defending civilians during Orochimaru's invasion. So I hope you know I trust you to keep that secret. Whatever your decision is, Narudo said as he headed for the door. Let's go. Wait, I can't leave her alone, he said, looking at the unconscious woman whom he honestly considers his daughter. Narudo just sigh and creates a sealless clone to stand guard. There. I've put enough chakra into this clone to make it take a few hits. It'll be fine. Now, let's go. We've got a snake to skin. I've got a couple of girls who would definitely love a snakeskin purse. Jeriah and Yuga chuckled. They knew he was referring to Aam and Sani. Sunady looked confused, but decided to address the issue after they dealt with the snake. Okay, let's go. Battle and destiny. All right, Tumi. Don't get too close when we face Orochimaru. And don't try to use your inner power. It will give you away, and that snake won't hesitate to use that information against you. Jeriah said as they ran towards the last place where Naruto's clone saw the snake sanin. I know it. You know it. Don't stop me if I have the chance to finish him off. Narudo growled, trying to control his anger with Benahheim on his hip as he watched a still hesitant but battle readysade. Geriah just size. I hope he doesn't take his first life today. I hope he's ready to use that sword in real combat. I noticed the blade is made of a strange chakra metal. I wonder, Yugal thought, questioning the sword. On the other side of the city. Are you sure is here and hasn't fled the city yet? Kabuto. Orochimaru hissed in pain. His sealed arms caused him constant agony and pain. Yes, Mr. Orochimaru. According to our contacts, he should be in the gambling dens or a hotel run by one of them. We should check there first. However, we must be cautious. I heard that Jeriah was coming here with a former Yanbu and a new student. The silver-haired forked young man informed and advised. So, the leaf tries to bring her back to the village. How intriguing, Orochimaru thought before nodding to his right-hand man. Very well. Let's<unk> go see that informant of yours. Before they got too far away, the snake Sanin noticed several similar chakra signatures, one of which he had sensed before, but couldn't identify. However, he indicated to Kabutoo that they were being watched. The young doctor also noticed it and knew whose chakra signature it was, but he considered it impossible if his information was correct. "My lord, this presence shouldn't exist. Not if my information is correct. I should be dead," the spy whispered. Orochimaru remained silent, making no gesture to acknowledge that he had heard him, for he knew that if there were several identical chakra signatures, they were using some kind of cloning jutzu. And if he was right, it was the shadow clone jutzu, which made it intriguing. The only person who was supposed to be dead and who could create so many clones was the Q.B.'s Genturiki. Um, it seems they're dispersing us and cornering us on the outskirts of the city. It's a fight they both want and don't want. So civilians get caught in the crossfire. Narudo has matured in the last month. Both sound ninja's thought. Outskirts of the city. Narudo, Sununade, Jeriah, and Yugal waited in a wide open field on the outskirts of the gambling town. The snakes will arrive soon, but are you sure it was wise to use my clones to guide them? Kabuto spent enough time with me in the forest of death so he'll know it's me. Letting any of them escape could put me at risk, Narudo said sternly. We know they're taking a big risk, but we shouldn't involve civilians, Jeriah said seriously. We will do everything we can to ensure they do not escape, but incapacitating them so they cannot speak will be difficult without killing them, Yuga said with the same seriousness, concern reflected in her voice. Then we'll kill them and avenge the old man. Maybe we'll even free Sasuke from that hickey on his neck. the former blonde said grimly, gripping the hilt of Benahheim, ready to draw it and fight. When they arrive, Sununady and I will face our former comrade, while you and Yuga will face Kabuto, Jeriah began before noticing the withering glare from his apprentice. Don't look at me like that. Orochimaru is out of your reach right now, even with your sword and the raising Gansunady and I are better suited to fight him since we know his fighting style. Guru, fine, but when we're done with Kabuto, we<unk>ll support you. Narudo growled. And before you say anything, I know I shouldn't use Kurama's chakra if I can help it. They all nodded and waited for their opponents. And they didn't have to wait long. Barely 5 minutes later, Orochimaru and Kabutoo appeared, forcing the four combatants into their respective fighting stances. Narudo growled, barely holding back his attack against the one who had murdered his grandfather. Orochimaru simply chuckled. "Wow, isn't this an amazing meeting?" Jeriah said in his usual condescending tone. "Stop talking nonsense, Orochimaru. I know why you're here. You want me to heal the arms you lost when you killed Sensei." "Well, forget it." said firmly, frowning. "Oh, but I think so, Lady Sununade. You see, we can give you back what you miss most. But for that, Lord Orochimaru will need your arms. Kabutoo said with a malicious smile. And Nawaki thought with a dazzling look on her face and her posture wavering. Shut up snakes. The dead cannot come back to life. shouted Narudo. You're right. I heard how you managed to defeat Sensei. Impure resurrection jutzu. Since they are the souls of the dead, it requires a living sacrifice, which means they would be nothing more than zombies under your control," Jeras said, supporting his godson after having investigated what little he could. Upon hearing this, straightened up while Orochimaru and Kabuto frowned at the hooked young man, as they still hadn't fully verified if he was who they thought he was. "You have a real investigation that doesn't involve spying on women in baths. I'm a little impressed, Jeriah. Orochimaru hissed. Enough talk, Narudo shouted, drawing his sword. Today, the world will be rid of two scumbags, and I'll get a huge reward for their heads. Well, it's been quite some time since I last saw that sword, and when I've been searching forever since its previous master died so tragically that night 13 years ago, Narudo, said the snake, Sanin, testing his theory. And the only way you'll touch this word is when I cut you with it. The former Jinnon shouted, barely restraining himself from attacking. Calm down a little, Narudo. You won't be able to fight clearly if you're blinded by anger, Kurama said, trying to at least calm his host. Nodding slowly and breathing deeply to calm down. Thank you, Kabuto. You take care of our young friend and the young woman with them. I'll take care of my former comrades. Before that, do it. Orochimaru ordered. Kabutoo, aware of what this meant, rolled up his master's sleeves, revealing his purplish, stained arm, and a trickle of blood oozed from his right arm onto the snake's summoning seal on his left. Seeing this, suppressed her hemophobia as she bit her thumb while performing the signs to summon Katsuya, while Jeriah stood with her, about to summon Gamaba. summoning Jutsu. The three Sanin shouted at the same time, causing the summons of the three bosses to appear. Orochimaru, what does this mean? Hissed Manda, the snake chief that I told you not to summon me unless you had a 100 human sacrifices ready for me. Our apologies, Lord Manda. We<unk>ll have double the amount ready next time. right now. We need your help, Kabuto said in the most humble tone he could muster, aware of how volatile this boss could be when trying to shift Manda's attention to his two rivals. Jeriah, what's wrong? Why have you? Gamabana tried to ask before seeing Orochimaru and Manda, who understood that I see. It's time to buy myself a snakeskin wallet. Lady, how can I help you? asked the ever polite slug chief, Katsuya. It's time to settle the past, Katsuya, said the slug sanin, earning a subtle nod from the giant slug below her. Yuga stood to one side, astonished. The triple dreadlock. I never thought I'd have the honor of seeing this. As impressive as this is, Sensei. We don't have that luxury right now, Naro said, staring intently at Kabuto. After regaining consciousness, she drew her sword and stared at the man, partly responsible for her fiance's death. "True was all she said. It's been almost a month, hasn't it, Naro? Since the forest of death? You've certainly changed since then," Kabuto sneered. "Learning secrets that were hidden from you your whole life will do that to you," Narudo said coldly. "What could it mean? What secrets?" Kabuto thought but shook his head and said to the former blonde, "It doesn't matter because as soon as it becomes known that you are still alive, the ambu hunter ninjas will hunt you down, take you back to the village and kill you after the fox is resealed in another person. All the more reason I'll kill you and your gay pedophile master." Narudo mocked with a derisive smile as he watched Kabuto's anger flare. Then he turned to his Kjutsu sensei. Let's go. Yuga nodded as both the student and the sensei charged at the sound doctor while Kabutoo summoned his bisheries. Dakrand lashed out at his opponents. Narudo and Yuga swung horizontally to try and cut their opponent, but he somersaulted backward and struck them in their non-dominant arms, causing them to lose feeling in them. Narudo grunted at this while his partner was already healing the damage. Though Yuga wasn't so lucky, "Naro, we must be careful. That jutzu you're using is far worse than the gentle fist fighting style. It can affect muscles and internal organs. It's a basic skill for all medics. Yuga warned, raising her sword again with her good arm. Narudo nodded, unconsciously channeling Kurama's unfiltered chakra through Bahheim's sword, giving it a strange red glow, surprising both his sensei and his opponent. That glow, I've only heard stories of Kusha doing that. So, it's a chakra medallion designed to handle the overwhelming power of Kurama's chakra. Or any of the tailed beasts, if I had to guess, Yugal thought in amazement. W, what are you doing? Kabuto voiced what he was thinking. Huh? Narudo asked before looking at his sword. Wow, I didn't know I could do this. What impresses me most is that you did it unconsciously. That's how your mother earned the title of Red Death, Narudo, Kurama said. Now, finish him off. The unfiltered chakra of your sword is extremely poisonous and corrosive. Understood that Narudo nodded mentally, looked at his sensei, and charged at Kabutoo. Still terrified, he couldn't move or dodge Naruto's blow, which was a machete meant to finish him off. As he fell, his body began to disintegrate and dissolve. The rest of Kabuto's body also slowly did the same from the neck down. As this was happening, both Narudo and Yuga watched in shock, unable to believe what had just occurred, each for different reasons. A smile slowly spread across Naruto's face, one that frightened Jeriah and who had been observing them amidst the fight after sensing Kurama's chakra with the Sanin. The fight between the three was intense. Jeriah had used the swamp of the underworld to trap Manda in a 2-me deep swamp, causing Manda to curse the Toad Toad for being unable to move and having to dissipate. However, Katsuya and Bunt stayed behind, knowing how dangerous Orochimaru could be, even without his ability to use his arms. Before the fight could truly begin, however, they sensed Narudo channeling Kurama's chakra and looked only to see Benahheim glowing red with the chakra. But what they saw next terrified each of the Sanin as well as enraging Orochimaru to the extreme. Narudo grabbed Kabuto's head by the shoulders only to dissolve into nothingness, burned by the corrosive chakra. "Damn it, that brat Kabutoo was invaluable. I'm going to find another doctor with similar skills," he exclaimed Furioso. "For now, I'll take care of this brat and sununade too since she refused to heal me." At the same time, Sununade and Jeriah were worried by the sadistic smile on the teenager's face, noticing that he had not removed his mask since the hotel in his fury that oh no, don't tell me that his pentup anger coupled with his first death has unleashed something in him. Jeriah thought while knew that look all too well, unknowingly confirming Jeriah's fear, especially with what they were hearing now. Yuga was also worried as the former Jinnon began to laugh maliciously. I feared this now that he no longer hides behind his idiot image. All the rage he's held back from years of abuse and hatred towards the village, coupled with his first death and the power he wields with that sword has been unleashed. "Oh, sorry, Pedamaru. Did I just annihilate your toy? I suppose you'll have to find another kid to satisfy you." Narudo sneered. Perhaps I should spare other children and finish what the third Hokag started and end your miserable life, he said, preparing his sword once more to attack. Narudo, you're no match for him. Back off. Let us handle this, Yuga. Come on, said Jera, earning a nod. But he was ignored by Kurama's host, who kept his gaze fixed on Orochimaru with a crazed look. Narudo, calm down. Don't let unfiltered chakra overwhelm you. Binahheim is testing you. Kurama shouted. "Look at you, boy. You're nothing but a wild beast." After tasting its first blood, "It seems the leaf was right. You're nothing but a demon." Orochimaru sneered before pulling his Kuzzanagi sword from his throat and extending his neck to pierce the Genturiki's stomach. Yuga pushed her crazed student away and took a stab wound, restoring Naruto's consciousness and dissipating the corrosive chakra that was being channeled through his sword. Sensei Narudo, seeing that she was being stabbed in the stomach, attacked Orochimaru's neck, barely grazing his vocal cords, which caused the snake to retreat and leave Kuzanagi in the old U. Jeriah saw this and looked at Sununade, who was already talking to Katsuya. Katsuya, can you send a clone to heal her? Yeah, but the sword will have to be removed carefully. If I'm not mistaken, it's not just in her stomach, but very close to her uterus. If we're not careful, she could become a baron, especially with the poison coating the blade. Chief Slug responded, sending her towards the defeated Kunoichi. Meanwhile, Orochimaru was furious. He was having trouble carrying out his body replacement jutzu to the injuries caused by the surprise attack. So, he made a body movement to escape and focus on healing his wounds and finding a way to fast forward time to get to Sasuke. At that moment, Narudo didn't care that the snake had escaped. His attention was focused on Yuga and the guilt he felt. He knew he was responsible. If only he hadn't been consumed by the thirst for battle and the adrenaline rush of his first kill. Orochimaru was right. He was like a wild beast after tasting his first kill. A demon control. Kurama said, catching the attention of the former leaf jinnon. You're nothing like a demon or a wild animal. The sword was testing you, and I'd say you passed with flying colors since you reacted instantly when your sensei was injured. Now, pay attention. A slug is almost right next to you to help the woman. Young man, I need you to carefully remove the sword from his stomach as straight as you can. Try to move it a little, could see his clone said in his usual maternal tone. But even this was tinged with a seriousness that Naro picked up on. After nodding, he obeyed and carefully extracted the poison sword while Yuga groaned in pain. I'm sorry, sensei. I wish I hadn't gotten lost. I'll train to overcome my thirst for battle and be able to use my mother's sword properly. He whispered more to himself than to the woman he was helping. "Oh, okay, Naro," he said, coughing and coughing up a little blood. "I'm glad you've come to Don't speak, ma'am. You're seriously injured, said Katsuya's clone, earning a pained expression from the former Yenbu. Off to one side, Sununade and Jeriah were discussing what had happened. I'm worried. It was too easy. I didn't think Orochimaru was so badly hurt, Sununade said, and the Toad Sanin nodded. I don't even know if Naruto's cut connected. I didn't see a single wound on that super extended neck. Did you? He asked. Yes, I did. But it didn't seem that serious. But Orochimaru not using that camouflage replacement jutzu meant he was either seriously injured or not bad enough to worry about. But he left when he realized he was outnumbered with his second man dead. The slug summoner expressed her concern. So we must be very careful about the future. For now, after Kitsuya finishes healing Yuga, we should return to your apprentice. We need to make the final decision about whether or not you return to the village with Yuga and me. I don't think Narudo will accompany us. Not since he left just a week ago, declared the self-proclaimed super pervert. I know. It doesn't mean I'm looking forward to it because I already know Shizun will want to come back as soon as she finds out everything that's going on. And from what you said, time is running out for them, especially for that XMBBu. So Nade resignedly, "Back with Narudo. Yuga will be okay, right?" Naruto asked clearly worried. "Yes, child. You did very well to withdraw the sword carefully." "Now, please let me concentrate," Katsuya said, trying to be polite. But even with his patience, the former blonde was getting on his nerves. "The truth was, it was comforting to know the teenager was so worried about her sensei." Narudo simply mumbled an apology and looked at the kusanagi that Orochimaru had left behind. I think I'll give Yuga hers as a gift. Or maybe I'll save it for when I meet that ninja leader girl. Oh yes, give the girl you have to fight for her hand in marriage an extremely poisonous and rare sword so she can kill you with it. That's a great introductory gift. Kurama reprimanded. Oh, shut up. I wouldn't give it to him before the fight. Obviously, Dakusha's son reprimanded, feeling quite offended that his companion thought so little of him as to not even consider the gift. It was then that the two remaining Sanin approached. Sinade spoke. How's the treatment going? We need to go back to the inn and check on Shizu. I'm almost done with what I can do, but she'll have to take things easy for a while. Catsa said, noting that both Gamaba and his larger part had returned home. The three nodded, though the last thing on Naruto's mind was training. All he cared about was that she was all right. I'll make sure to do it. That doesn't mean I can't supervise his training, right? Yuga strained to say as she gestured to her student. As long as it doesn't involve training with him, Sununade sighed. His dedication is admirable, but he will die prematurely if he continues like this. Okay, I'm finished. Please take care everyone. Katsuya said before leaving. Back at the hotel. An hour later, everyone returned to Shizun. Narudo helped Yuga back carrying the Kuzanagi in his other hand. On the way, Jeriah and Yuga agreed to leave it as a gift for his future fiance, but not before teasing him about the same problems Kurama had, giving him more ways to kill him before they fought. This made him sulk and say he wasn't that stupid. However, Shizun was still unconscious, so they could only wait. Yuga and Jeriah took the opportunity to sleep for a while Narudo tired decided to stay awake and make sure didn't try to escape as he clearly distrusted the legendary fool. You don't have to watch me brat. I'm not going to run away, especially with Shizun in the state she's in. Sununade complained. You haven't given me any reason to trust you. Sure, you got Kitsuya to heal you sensei, but a good death is worthless. Many people would use one or two good deeds to gain someone's trust and then stab them in the back. I've learned that lesson all too well, thanks to that cesspool of a town," the former blonde snarled. The doctor, aware of the situation, hadn't expected such a response. "What happened to you in the village?" was all she could manage to ask. "What didn't happen to me in the village?" he retorted before continuing. I was rejected, isolated, overcharged for dirty food. My parents told their children to stay away from me and I was sabotaged at the academy. And after my third attempt at the final exam, which for some reason was always my worst jutzu, the standard clone jutzu. And after failing it because I didn't know it, one of my sensei approached me and told me about the secret test that would allow me to become a jennon. He said I had to sneak into the Hokag tower, take the large scroll hidden there, which just happened to be the ceiling scroll, and learn a jutzu from it. Naruto stopped and chuckled. How curious. That's how I learned the shadow clone jutzu. Anyway, after completing the task, my other sensei, found me and told me that Mizuki had tricked me, only for him to appear at that very moment and tell me about the third Hokag's decree, that he had a fox sealed inside him, and that I was the demon. After my match in the Chunin exams finals, I found out who my parents were. Herusen hadn't told me for my protection and that my own sensei Kakashi knew who my parents were because he was my father's student. But instead of training his team in a balanced way, he focused on the last loyal achiea. Damn, he really only taught us the tree climbing exercise. And something a friend of his once told him, "Those who break the rules are scum, but those who abandon their friends are worse than scum." So yes, I don't trust people very easily and it's hard to earn that trust. There are only seven people I trust completely. One is Yuga Sensei. The other five are back at my new home and the other is Raa who's in the village. Don't you trust that perverted old man over there? Sonade asked curiously. Why would I trust a man who's supposed to be my godfather but never came to look after me? Despite being Kenoha's espionage master, he could have visited me at least twice a year. No, instead, when we first met, he acted like he didn't know who I was and initially refused to train me until I convinced him to use a jutzu I created to deal with perverts. And please don't ask what it's for. Anyway, when I was training for the Tunin exams finals, he spent most of his time on his research. He even threw me off a cliff to summon Gamabunt for the first time. Narudo said, simply shrugging. They didn't know that Yuga and Jeriah were listening to their conversation with different reactions. While Yuga smiled slightly, happy to be one of confidants, Jeriah frowned, disappointed at not being on that list. Though he understood why she still wasn't easy to listen to. However, he sweated as he sensed Sununade's anger directed at him. "Oh, really?" in a low, sinister voice. "Yes, I'm screwed. That was all Jeriah had time to think before he was slammed against the wall and landed outside the city. This caused Shizun to wake up and groan, still feeling the pain from her master's monstrous slap. Narudo quickly pulled his mask up before she could speak. "Uggh, Lady, did you have to hit me so hard?" she asked, clearly expecting to be hit for mentioning her uncle like that. Once she regained her composure, she saw two other people in the room along with a huge hole in the wall. Who are these people and why is there a hole in our suite? Ah, you're awake, Narudo said casually. You were that shadow clone boy we ran into earlier, proclaimed the younger doctor. That's right. My name is Takcomi. I'm sorry if I caused you to get hurt, Narudo said solemnly. Shizun, I'm sorry. I went too far. You crashed into the wall and I broke your jaw. I felt terrible. Interrupted the conversation to apologize. Well, I'm sorry if I was insensitive, but I stand by what I said about helping the village if that's why they're here, the younger doctor said. Yes, that's why we're here, said Jeriah, climbing through the hole in the wall. Master Jeriah exclaimed before asking, "What did you do this time to get slammed against the wall?" My student told about my behavior and my teaching methods, grown Toad Toad. If that's your usual method of investigating and giving advice from time to time, then I can understand why. Or was it worse than usual? Shisun asked with a serious expression. He tried to throw me off a cliff to summon Gamabanta. Narudo threw his godfather even further under the bus. This earned him a disbelieving look from the younger doctor with cracking her knuckles, ready to send him flying again, making Jeriah sweat. Come on. Come on. As fun as it is to see the old pervert fly away, why don't you discuss what you need? Said Narudo, determined to save his godfather. And so they resumed discussing everything, setting aside Naruto's identity and status, knowing that Shizun was very much in favor of rules and protocol, and would suggest that they drag him back to protect him from the stone and cloud villages. So while I was away, everyone here confronted Orochimaru and his second in command and Takcomi killed him and further injured Orochimaru after he stabbed Yuga here. Shisan asked shocked. "That's right," Narudo said, and Yuga nodded, placing a hand on her stomach where she had been stabbed. "Lord Jeriah, you two have found an excellent student, Yuga," said Shizun, still stunned. "Should I accept the compliment? Can we get back to the matter at hand? You know, if you andsunade are returning to Leaf Village with Jeriah and Yuga, "And before you ask, I have people waiting for me at home," Narudo said, trying to suppress his blush. "Okay, I'm sorry," she apologized before turning serious. "I've already expressed my opinion about returning if the village needs medical help, but this is much more than that. It would mean we would stay there." Everyone nodded except Narudo who sighed before continuing. However, we cannot allow Danzo to become Hokag. I agree with all of you that he would not only turn the elemental nation into a war zone, but he would also turn everyone with bloodline potential into breeders, including you, Lady. He said, looking at who seemed about to explode. What I mean is that you carry the blood of Lord One within you. And just because you don't have would release doesn't mean your descendants won't. I'm too old to have children. You know that, Shisun, exclaimed the slug saninine. Yes, but that doesn't mean they won't have their doctors do what they can to revitalize your egg sack and then extract the eggs so someone else can give birth to the children, Jeriah interjected. Looked like she was about to destroy the place just thinking about it. And not only that, from what I've heard from this idiot, I wouldn't be surprised if she dug up the graves of the dead if they had bloodlines. That means that even if they can't revive your testicles, your grandfather's bones aren't safe. Hell, they're not safe anymore if Orochimaru was able to use that impure world reincarnation jutzu to take on the third Hokag. Narudo just added fuel to the fire. Speaking of the two of them, I wouldn't be surprised if Danzo was the one who helped Orochimaru enter the village in the first place, Yugal thought aloud. Sensing Naruto's anger rising again, Jeriah puts an end to it. Let's leave it for later until we return to the leaf village. Assuming he's right that you'll go back just to stop Danzo from doing this, assuming he hasn't already. You're absolutely right. If having to suffer as Hokag means ruining the Warhawks plans, I'll do it,"Sunady said with a determination that Jeriah hadn't seen in her since the fight against Hanzo the salamander. "In that case, let me tell you the secret of the paperwork that every Kag should know," Narudo said, knowing he owed him the rest of his career. "Two words: Shadow clones. Takumi, you're a genius. If you were a Leaf Village Shinobi, I'd pay you an S-rank salary for that information. Hell, I might even since you're an independent Shinobi,"Sunady said, pulling him close to her ample chest, surprising everyone. Jeriah, shocked and jealous, started laughing and scribbling in his notebook while Narudo fidgeted. "I can't breathe." Naro thought as Kurama laughed out loud. Lady Sunsade, I think Tekkcomi is turning blue from lack of oxygen, Shizun said, laughing slightly. Gasped and released the teenager who was panting for air. I'm sorry, she said shily. Let's get ready to leave. My family will soon start to worry about me, she said after catching her breath. Okay, like I said, I'll send you money home after my coronation. Promised the future fifth Hokag. What if I give you my account information when I have my parents' accounts under my control? The young black woman said. This caught Shizun<unk>s attention. What do you mean? Why wouldn't you already have them under your control, assuming they'd let you? Naruto's mood darkened and he spoke in an even tone. Let's just say a well-intentioned old man hid it from me for stupid reasons. Okay, said a confused doctor that I'll definitely find out if it's something I need to know. This guy seems to value his privacy. He hasn't mentioned where he lives even once. Very well. If you can't do it by then, I'll send a trusted messenger to your house. What do you think? Asked. Narudo simply nods, hoping to soon gain control of his parents' accounts so he can accept missions again. It's a good thing I emptied my account before the exams. Who knows if the villagers would have managed with the little money I had, not because I had over 100,000 yen in my account. "How are you, Sensei?" he asked. Yuga, "I'm fine. At least I should be able to return to the village," he replied with a smile to his student. The young Usuzamaki nodded, relieved. "And I told you, you're not responsible for me getting hurt. I would have taken the hit again if it meant you'd be safe," she said, holding back as she was about to speak about her ginger status. Narudo frowned, but nodded. "Well, you too. Enough with the brother/sister routine." Jeriah grumbled. still hurt that the former was closer to his godson than he was. Although it didn't seem to bother them. On the contrary, they smiled even more at the thought. "Before I go home, can I talk to you privately, Jeriah?" Naruto asked. "Huh, sure." Toad nodded a little confused about what he could possibly want. Then the two of them went out into the hallway and walked along it so as not to be overheard, making sure that no one followed them. So, what did you want to talk about, Narudo? Jeriah asked his godson. I wanted to ask if you know who my godmother is, she asked hesitantly. This surprised the super pervert. He didn't expect this to come out. It's not that I won't respond, but I'm curious why you're bringing it up now. I feel like I need to know to know why they didn't accept me if they lived in the village, if they cared about me, Narudo said solemnly. I see, Jeriah said solemnly. Well, your godmother did care. She was your mother's best friend, but she couldn't take you in because neither the council nor her clan would allow it. The council because of the events surrounding your birthday and the attack on the village. Her name was Makoto Aiha, Sasuke's mother. The council refused to allow the Aiha to possess the weapon because it was believed that one of them controlled Kurama, and the Achiha refused for essentially the same reason. Having you among them would only increase the already high tension in the village. He paused a sigh, but Makoto fought. She fought so hard that Harusen thought his children were jealous of the time she spent bringing you into the family. Her heart broke when she was forced to break her promise to Kusha. She felt she had betrayed them both. So, don't doubt that she loved and cared for you. I'm sure you have some unlabeled gifts, right? Narudo nodded, holding back the tears that threatened to roll down his face. O team's mom was my godmother, and she loved me enough to fight for me despite being rejected who knows how many times. I wish I could thank her for everything she did, but she died that tragic night. I guess he and I have even more in common. It's a shame I can't share it with him now that he despared. "Are you okay?" Jeriah asked in a gentle tone. "Of course not. Once again, that damned council prevented me from having a happy life. I'll never forgive them. I have even more reasons to never set foot in Kohao again," Narudo said vehemently. The Sanne nodded, wincing in pain. He had probably damaged his relationship with his godson even further by asking such a silly question out of concern. "I'll go back to the others. Take all the time you need. Just tell everyone I've gone home. I don't want anyone to see me like this." the now official independent shinobi said dejectedly. The older man could only nod and leave. As soon as Jeriah entered the room and delivered the message, Narudo collapsed and wept silently. Not even Kurama said anything, especially since what he wanted to say would only provoke his host to attack him. Back in the hotel room, when Jeriah delivered the message, Yuga was the first to ask what was wrong. Seeing the Sanin's defeated expression, Tkumi asked about something he wanted to know but didn't need to know. And it wasn't exactly pleasant having to tell him or for him to hear it. "I didn't want to worry anyone, so if you see him again, don't pry. I'm sure he'll tell you, especially later on," he said solemnly. The young swordsman nodded, looking very worried, as was curious about this information that the young man needed to know. "Come on, let's go. It'll take Kenoha a day or two to react. And we don't have much time left before the Warhawk gets the hat, Jeriah said, his tone turning serious. All the ladies nodded and gathered their belongings, knowing Narudo had them stored in scrolls, and left, unaware that he was just around the corner, desperately needing comfort. Had she known, Yuga would have rushed over and hugged him until he recovered. in Kenoha. One day later, we find Enko Midarashi, the supervisor of the second part of the Tunin exams and part of the TNI division, leaving the only place she can relax besides her apartment, the Dango shop. Ever since her former sensei invaded the village to try and raise it and assassinate the beloved third Hokag, she's been treated even worse than before. The only reason she's remotely safe is because she's part of TNI. And her boss, Ibeki, would beat the crap out of anyone who tried to hurt her. Not to mention, people were afraid she'd vomited snakes on them. That doesn't mean she hasn't been charged triple for everything when she goes shopping. Only Dango's shop treated her fairly. So, back at work, she ignores the stairs and the new insults of snake [ __ ] traitor, and the like. However, this doesn't mean she lets her guard down. And so, she notices something in a nearby alley. So, despite convincing herself it was a stupid idea, she goes to investigate. What do you mean by saying Kabuto was killed and Orochimaru can't speak because of a wound in his throat? A monotone male voice was heard. Orochimaru, she thought to herself, instinctively grabbing the spot on her neck where her curse mark was as she hid as best she could behind a wall. As I said, Lord Orochimaru returned in a foul mood. When someone asked about Kabuto, he gave the signal to kill the poor bastard. Now it's my turn to be the damn informant. A foul-mouthed teenager's voice. This girl has a sailor's mouth, Anko thought, deciding to discreetly peek her head around the corner. What he saw was an AMBU wearing a blank mask, the rumored A&BU route under Danzo's command, and a girl with long red hair, a black hat with pipeshaped stripes and bandage sides, a tan robe with elbow length sleeves, a rope-shaped belt that her former sensei used to wear, black wristbands and biker shorts, and what looked like a flute tucked into the belt. I understand. Here's the information you were sent to find, said the ENBU root, handing the girl a scroll before disappearing. Jutzu body flicker. The redhead puts the scroll in her tool bag and storms off unaware that Anko was eavesdropping until she bumps into Lady Snake, dropping the scroll. And with a quick thought from Anko, a blank scroll that looked identical. "Hey, watch where you're going, you damn fox," the girl growled when she saw two scrolls on the ground. The same could be said of you. I was just taking a shortcut to get home to check on my mission," Enko said, picking up the information scroll. "Tch, fine. I don't have time to waste on people like you." The redhead grabs the other scroll and runs off. Anko looked at the scroll in her hands. "I'd better get back to Tni." "Ibiki shouldn't know," she said, wrapping herself in her trench coat and hurrying off to work. 5 minutes after jumping off the roof, he landed in front of the TNI building and ran straight to Iiki's office, bursting through the door. "Enko, what did I tell you about slamming the door open?" Iiki asked without looking up to search for the papers on his desk. "I'm sorry, but this is important. I just witnessed an interaction between an unidentified A and BU and a shinobi under Orochimaru<unk>s command, Anko said, taking out the scroll she had stolen and handing it over. This catches his attention as he picks up the scroll. After reading it for a few minutes, he frowns, looking relaxed. This is information about the Aiha and his mental state since the exams when he received the same cursed seal as well as demands for payment for his help during the exams and the invasion. He says before looking up, "You said it was an unmarked ENBU who gave this scroll to the shinobi." "What can you tell me about the shinobi?" "Technically, she was a Kunoichi, but Enko said, describing the girl as she thought she had even more evidence that Danzo helped Orochimaru." Ibeki brought her hand to her chin and thought. According to the AMBU who were outside the barrier when Hirusen was fighting Orochimaru, one of the four sound ninja who erected said barrier fits that description. Aside from the seaman's mouth you mentioned, she was probably one of Orochimaru's personal guards. If she could enter and leave the village undetected, someone powerful is aiding Orochimaru and his people. I suppose we don't know anything more about her or the other three. asked Mistress Snake, frowning, receiving a negative gesture from her boss. Damn it. We already know that Snake plans to keep the child. But what does she plan? He'll probably wait until the Aiha feels inadequate, weak, and that the village prevents him from becoming stronger, and then sends someone to convince him to go with them, the expert in mental torture theorized. But before he could say anything, there was a knock at the office door. Come in, Ibiki said, hiding the scroll they had obtained in his desk. Excuse the intrusion, Ibeki. I come on behalf of the council with a summons for Miss Midarashi, said the Ambu Tiger, avoiding calling Anko snake [ __ ] in front of Aiki. Something about an important mission. Very well. I'll be there in a moment. Thank you, Tiger, said Anko, noticing his pause and thinking of a way to be polite. When Tiger left, he turned to Aiki, who also seemed to understand. You knew he was going to insult me with one of those insults I've heard before, didn't you? I know. And he kept quiet because I was right here, he said, visibly irritated. Well, I'd better go. Those old folks get impatient quickly, Enko said, resigning herself to what would probably be a suicide mission. Hokag Tower Council Office. 5 minutes after being summoned, Enko arrived at the council office. To be honest, she was surprised not to see Danzo sitting in the Hokage's office despite the mission to bring back. "Sit down, Miss Midiarashi," Danzo said bruskly, watching her obey. "We've been told that the land of waves is home to a powerful, independent Shinobi. He's a teenager of 13 or 14 with sapphire blue eyes and pupils like AK9 who wears a sleeveless black hooded vest, a black mask like Kakashi's, black Ambu pants and black sandals possessing an immense amount of chakra. And you think this boy is a threat? Why? Because he's not connected to an immense chakra? Anko asked skeptically. That's right. If Iwa or Kimo were to get their hands on someone like that, it would be a problem, especially since he seems to share Wei's view of our village. They consider the fallen Gingeri their savior and don't appreciate the village celebrating his death. A former client of ours, now a commander in wave, said as much when we send a messenger to find Jeriah there. The old Warhawk said, "If this is the mission Kakashi told us about, it doesn't surprise me that they don't appreciate the village celebrating the death of their hero." Enko thought sadly before nodding. And are we sure he'll be on the wave? At this point, he should be. Perhaps he accompanied Jeriah and the former Beyu known as Cat to rescue him, said Cohoritane, the only woman on the Council of Elders. What? Cat was fired from her job? Enko asked, surprised. Yuga was one of her few friends. So she wondered what had happened to cause her dismissal. Yes, he requested a leave of absence and left the village with Jeriah to protect the Icharaku clan who were moving to wave when we were at our most vulnerable. We cannot assume such responsibility from one of our especially since they shouldn't need time to mourn a death. Hamura Mito, the other council member spoke those damn it, she lost her fiance before the tunin finals. She's still human, not a mindless drone. Ankoi got furious. Fine, I'll leave in an hour as long as I can get the equipment I need. The elders nod and watch her leave the room. Then Hamura and Koharu turn to Danzo. Prepare your route, he says. He clearly sympathizes with the missing weapon as well as with his friend, a former member. Not to mention, if he finds out we helped Orochimaru enter the village, he'll risk fleeing. I know perfectly well. I've already arranged it. My team is waiting far enough away so as not to attract the attention of that ungrateful village, Danzo said firmly. At that moment, Tiger bursts in. There'd better be a good reason for this intrusion. Tiger, Danzo growled. Yes, sir. We received a messenger toad from Jeriah. He and the traitor Yuga are returning with Sununade and Shizun. The ENBU said frankly, aware of the importance of the information. Damn them. How did Jeriah find her so fast? Danzo was furious. The message mentioned something about that brat who used clones to help with the search in Tanzaka Village. Apparently, he was also the one who wounded Lord Orochimaru. Tiger reported. That child is already too powerful. We must do something about him. Kohara hissed. Unfortunately, we can't. Reports say that and Jeriah are close to the boy. Tiger said hesitantly, knowing he was in a delicate situation at the moment. Danzo grunted. Very well. We<unk>ll have to keep a close eye on this kid from now on. How long until the San Mein and the Xenbu arrive? Tomorrow morning, sir, the Yimbu said with a bow. You can retire, Danzo said. Tiger then used the body displacement jutzu to dodge it. Hamura and Koharu turned to Danzo. We apologize, old friend, but it seems we'll have to postpone our plans for the elemental nations for the time being. This only means we can make more thorough preparations. I am a patient man. Ifsunade doesn't agree with our plans, we can imprison her and proceed with the plan to revive Sinju, Danzo said after calming down. Forests outside of wave. Half a day had passed and Narudo was almost home. However, he stopped when Kurama told him he sensed a battle nearby. Being so close to Wave, he decided to investigate and deal with any bandits who might dare threaten his new home. However, he arrived shortly after the battle ended and sensed three chakra signatures retreating toward Kinoa. Understanding, I sent that the crazy snake that oversaw the second exam. What's it doing here? And why is it so badly damaged? Naruto wonders. I don't know, but she's barely alive. You need to take her back to the city so she can see a doctor immediately, Kurama answered, even if he wasn't asked. [ __ ] Okay. I just hope he doesn't cut my cheek again. Although it felt good with his broad chest against my back. Dot thought the blushing brunette. This isn't the time to go crazy. Damn hormonal teenager. Kurama snorted and went back to sleep. Narudo growled, picked Anko up piggyback, and ran towards the city. "Uggh, why are you helping me? Who are you?" Enko asked weakly. "Shu, don't talk. You're seriously injured. I shouldn't even go near you, but I have no experience in first aid," Narudo said. "Root, Kenoha did this to me," Enko said before fainting. "Hey, hold on," he yelled and ran faster. "Damn it." 5 minutes later, Tzuna went through the first door. Tsunami, I am. I found someone who needs help. Takumi, both ladies exclaimed. What happened to her? Wait, she's a leaf ninja. What's she doing here? I don't know, but I found her like this on the outskirts of the city, and she managed to say something about Kenoha, he said, looking at Lady Snake. Okay, we'll help her, but she's your responsibility, Tsunami said. Narudo nodded and looked around. Where are Tui and Tzuna? I'm working at the ramen stand. My father wanted Mr. Icharaku to give his opinion so that it would live up to his family standards, said the mother of one of them. Narudo nodded and left Anko to the lady's care. He knew they'd do the bare minimum to keep her alive, but he also knew they didn't need much skill to do more. He should send a message to the pervy sage tomorrow. They should be back in Kenoha by then, hopefully. I think her name is Anko if I remember correctly from the banner she held at the end of the first exam. That's right, Brad. And don't deny that you found her attractive. That outfit she's wearing leaves nothing to the imagination. Kurama joked. Hey, that's beside the point, you perverted fox. I was just making sure I had the right name for the future fifth Hokag. Narudo defended himself. He received only an aha from his tenant and simply grumbled. However, he remembered the promise he had made to Gamakichi. So, he went to the village to buy two large bags of sweets for Gamabunt's red-haired son. When he returned 30 minutes later, he found Anko on the sofa dressed only in bandages, which made him blush and dropped the sweets, which fortunately did not spill on the floor. "Naro, you're back. Why do you have two big bags of candy?" I am asked before noticing his gaze and continued with a cloying smile. You'd better not go crazy over her. Of course not. But why didn't they dress her again? Even though she wasn't wearing much, she countered with a question of her own. Uh-huh. Don't try that deflecting one question with another trick with me, Naro. But I'll answer anyway. It'll make changing his bandages easier tonight. Now, why aren't you answering me about the sweets? I know you don't have much of a sweet tooth. He glared at me. Okay, you're right. As for the sweets, they're for Gamakichi. one of the three toads I know how to summon. When he delivered the message to you, Tuchi and the pervy sage, he made sure I promised to give him a bag of sweets. They gave me an extra one because I need him to act as a messenger tomorrow, Narudo said, throwing his hands up and surrender. I am nods and tsunami enters the room laughing. Well, loveirds, there's no time to argue like an old married couple. I've just started dinner, so can I ask you to go find my father and Tuchi? She jokes as she makes a request. Tsunami, we're not even a couple. We're more like brothers. I told you. Narudo said, blushing like a hurricane. While Aam was putting on her best Hinata impression without fainting, fantasizing about marrying Narudo, Tsunami noticed and laughed even harder, but decided not to bother them any further. It was Am's turn to officially confess her feelings to the idiot. Come on, Ina. Naruto I am cursed herself for stuttering. Damn it. At this point I'm going to give myself away without realizing that he had heard her that night. Is this okay? Narudo said confused somewhat forgetting the confession he heard a week ago. Our idiot or don't you remember what made you so nervous a week ago. I am<unk>'s conversation with Tsunami in the kitchen? Kurama asked with a serious face. Oh, all right. Narudo blushed even more. Kurama simply put his hand to his paw and whimpered. Narudo suppressed his blush and left through the door with Aam. That night, while Tsunami was in charge of monitoring Anko, Narudo and Aam decided to sit on the roof and enjoy the night sky together while Tuchi simply smiled as they went upstairs. "Hey, can I ask you something?" Narudo asked tentatively. "H"? She replied without looking at the starry sky. Do you remember a week ago when you arrived and helped Tsunami in the kitchen? He asked now very nervous. He knew he had to prepare for this. Uh-huh. Uh, yes, of course. He dragged me along to help in the kitchen and talk. Why? She asked with the same nervousness, turning her gaze towards him, gripped by panic. Don't tell me his sensitive hearing could hear our conversation over all that noise. Um, well, she paused, gathering her courage. I'm sorry. I heard you talking. I heard everything. Did you do it? She said, turning pale, wanting to curl up and die. He nodded slowly. Did you mean what you said? What? Isn't he rejecting the idea? Could I have been wrong about how he sees me? I am asked but realized he was waiting for an answer. Yes, I did. Of course, I did. I've known you for half my life. I loved that genuine, heartfelt smile you had when you received your anonymous gifts and when you came to tell us how excited you were to go to the academy. It broke my heart to see you arrive once a month oppressed by the third saying he didn't know who your parents were. The times you arrived at my father's and my house starving. The times you arrived beaten and bruised by drunken villagers. And all the times that hero girl was stupid enough to turn down a date with you. How could I not fall in love with you? Anyone inferior would go crazy after what you've been through. Even if you don't feel the same way or aren't ready, I just want to be a light to dispel some of the darkness. She spoke passionately yet sincerely, a deep blush rising to her cheeks. I am, said Narudo in an eye tone, taking a few minutes to organize his thoughts. Don't even think about rejecting her. We don't even know the girl you're technically engaged to. This girl has been there for you through everything. She even left home with her father for you. She loves you with all her heart. Kurama stepped forward in a rare moment of compassion, surprising his host. Narudo knew what his teammate said was true. She had done so much for him that he knew it would be cruel to reject her, especially since he felt the same way. So, he made a decision and hugged her. I am returns the hug with tears in her eyes, thinking he's going to reject her. I feel the same way. Those words made her turn away to look him in the eyes, just to see the honesty there. "Really?" she asked, barely a whisper. Narudo simply nods. "If you're okay with me being away from home for so long as a shinobi, then perhaps we can get down to business." "Fool, of course, I'm fine with it. And even though I have no other choice, I don't mind sharing you with this girl you'll have to fight someday. Although I'm sure she'll have to be the official wife for political reasons, I am said with a tearful smile and hugged him again, resting her head on his shoulder. He nodded gently and hugged her tightly. What neither of them knew was that Tuchi and Tsunami were spying on them from a nearby window, both smiling, Tuchi nodded in acceptance, knowing that Narudo would treat her well, especially if the boy wanted to keep getting his ramen. Tsunami had tears in her eyes at the touching scene. The next morning, Enko enters a room she doesn't recognize and realizes she's practically naked, except for the bandages in what appears to be a living room. However, she notices that her clothes have been washed, mended, and neatly folded on the table beside her. "Hello, is anyone there?" he asked in a horse voice. "Damn it, I think I should talk calmly for a while. Although, I think I'm just thirsty," he thought. "Oh, you're awake. Let me get you something to drink. Your throat must be dry. We're not a medical center, so we didn't want to risk you choking when Tkumi brought you here after finding you injured on the outskirts of town. Tsunami said as she headed to the kitchen to make tea for everyone in the house. Where am I? asked Mrs. Snake. You are in the land of waves, home of the great bridge builder Tzuna, and those who practically worship Naro Usuzamaki, the hero who gave us back our fighting spirit and hope, the former housewife said proudly. Say hi. Okay. I found out about this place from a colleague. It was Naruto's sensei Kakashi Hitaki. Enko said, "Oh, so you're from Kenoha. You didn't have any ID when you arrived, so we weren't sure." Tsunami said, setting the tea down for her guest. But you know, the villagers don't like outsiders, especially after hearing that your village celebrated our hero's death, so be careful. Enko nods. I already knew that, of course, but getting confirmation from the source was very reassuring. Thank you for letting me know. I'll be careful and thank you for the tea as well. You're welcome, Tsunami said with a smile. You should get dressed. My father, Tzuna, and our guest, Tumi, should be up soon. I'm sure you'd prefer to wear something other than bandages when an old man and a healthy teenager come downstairs. I'll make breakfast. Anko nods and obeys. This is bad. My target, though I'm sure it was a fake mission so those rude A&BU bastards would kill me in combat, is the mayor and his family. Damn old men. Taking advantage of the fact there's no Hokagade, he became furious. They pulled her from her thoughts and said that the target had come down, but he wasn't wearing his mask or hood. He seemed half asleep, so his whiskers and spiky hair were visible. The boy let out a dazed murmur that sounded like morning and sat down at the table to drink one of the other cups of tea, unaware that Anko was there. "Oh, good morning, Taku." Tsunami began before noticing that his mask wasn't on and looking at the leaf ninja sitting in front of him with a slack jaw expression. "You're that brat who was declared dead after the invasion. What are you doing here alive?" Enko shouted, pointing at Narudo. "Huh?" he said before realizing the problem. That [ __ ] I forgot that the crazy snake was in the room. Don't tell me, huh? She said, ready to attack, forgetting for a moment where she was. I kindly asked that you do not attack our village hero, or I will no longer be able to offer you the hospitality of my home," Tzuna said as he went downstairs, wondering what all the commotion was about early in the morning. Enko lowered her stance, but remained alert in case this boy attacked her. I'm alive because I left that [ __ ] hole of lies and deceit. I left because not only was there a decree preventing me from knowing that I had the ninetailed fox sealed inside me, but they wouldn't tell me who my parents were for my protection. Even though I asked the third Hokag once a month, I even begged him simply wanting to know if they loved me or if they had abandoned me," Narudo said vehemently. Enko was impressed by that response. She understood why they were leaving after that. She knew that Lord Third and Narudo were close like grandfather and grandson. After lying to him for who knows how long. And considering how the villagers treated him, it wasn't surprising that he had decided to leave. If he didn't have a job he loved and friends who would care if he left, he would, especially after being almost certain that they had abandoned him. Your turn. Why were you outside the city so badly injured? Before you fainted, you mentioned something about the village and route. demanded the former jennon. The council of elders sent me on a mission to eliminate you, he said sincerely. But he raised his hands and surrender when he saw that the other man was ready to attack. However, now I believe they were only trying to get rid of me because of who my former sensei was. Narudo lowered his attack stance, nodded, and asked, "Judging by the fact that you're known as the snake lady of Kenoha." "Anko, I suppose your former sensei is Orochimaru, isn't he?" Enko simply sighed, nodded, and placed her hand on the mark on her neck. "That's right. I even have what I assume is the prototype of the hickey he gave your former teammate, the iah. He gave it to me and abandoned me," she explained, relying on her fragmented memory. I see. I'm sorry to hear that. However, I think you'll be pleased to know you can report the abuse of power. I just helped Jeriah and the former Yimu cat finds sununade Senu so she could return and become the fifth Hokag. The bold woman said with a mocking smile. In fact, I was about to send a toad to report that I found you. So, I can quickly add that the council sent you on a suicide mission if you like. Enko smiled smugly as well. I always love that sly side of you, Narudo, she said before her smile softened into a wistful one. You know, we're very similar. We're both outcasts of the village. You for holding the fox and me for being Orochimaru's student. I see. She's the student of a traitor. She must be an undercover agent. Narudo did his best to imitate the villagers. Sounds good. He chuckled a little at how accurate it was. Quite that. and the fact that the elders were probably worried about the information I'd already uncovered. I have reason to believe they helped the snake infiltrate the village during the tunin exams. I intercepted a scroll with information proving it along with something else involving that Achiha. Just tell them to contact Aiki or Scarhead as you called him during the exams. I left the scroll with him. Narudo nodded while Tsunami and Tzuna felt out of place in their own home with such sensitive information circulating. Realizing this, the two outcasts apologized. "Sorry, we got carried away in the moment." "Oh, don't worry. We're glad you found someone you can relate to." Tuna said, waving them off, and his daughter nodded. "Thank you, and I'm sorry to ask, but can I stay here until things are sorted out back home?" She hesitated to ask. I promise never to tell anyone that Narudo is alive. Well, not anyone who doesn't already know. That's fine, but as you know, if you find your headband, you won't be able to use it inside the village, Tzuna said as the mayor of Wave, not as a father and grandfather. Speaking of which, I had my clones investigate the area where I found you. I only found a piece of black cloth on a branch. It seems your attackers took your headband and fled. It got caught on a branch and tore off part of the cloth. They probably intend to use it as proof of death instead of your head, Narudo said as he finished adding the new information to the scroll, earning a snarl from Anko. All right, I'm going to the forest to deliver this. I'm sure neither of you wants a toad in your living room if you can avoid it, Narudo said, pulling up his mask and hood and turning to Anko. Stay here. You need to rest. I'll show you around when it doesn't hurt to get up, he added, seeing Enko went as she tried to stand and follow him, only to sit back down and nod. In the forest summoning jutzu, Narudo shouted in the field where he encountered Haku. Greetings, young Tkumi. I am one of the messenger toads. Congratulations on being able to change your selection, said a small green toad as he appeared, using the young man's alias just in case. Oh man, I was trying to find Gamakichi. Well, I have this scroll that needs to get to Jeriah andsunade. They should be on the leaf by now. Also, can you deliver this bag of sweets to Kchi? I promised it to him for being a messenger a week ago. Narudo was a little disappointed that he'd messed up again, but he was happy to have finally got a messenger toad. No problem. Give me what you need delivered, and I'll make sure both parties receive the packages. Mr. Gamakichi is on his way, so it's no trouble. I'm on my way. Call me again if you need me to deliver anything else. The toad waved and disappeared. Gates of Kohaa that morning. It was a normal day for the guards of the eternal gate, Kotetsu and Izumo, sitting at the northern gates playing cards, hoping that something exciting would happen. Man, I know it's only been a week since the invasion, but everything's been pretty quiet since this celebration of the Ninetailes death. Cotetsua blurted out, being one of the few who actually liked Narudo. Tell me about it. The village has become even more mundane. If that's even possible. I miss our joker king of hell. At least he died fulfilling his duty to protect the village, Isumo said in a bored tone. In the distance, Kotetsu notices something strange. Hey, Izzumo. I think things are about to get interesting again. Well, I'll do it. It seems the rumors were true and Jeriah succeeded in his mission. Izzumo nodded, saying nothing. I can't believe you two and that brat convinced me to come back here. complained, ignoring the gaping stairs of the two gate guards as she, Jeriah, and Yuga approached. Yes, Tumi has a way of convincing people, whether it's by befriending them, teasing them, or tricking them into thinking it was their idea. Yugal said, trying to keep a straight face, but everyone could see her shoulders twitching slightly, showing that she was chuckling softly. Jeriah sighed upon hearing that. It seemed he had much to learn about his godson, while Shizun was astonished to see her back in Kohaa. Please forgive us, Lord Jeriah, Ladyade, Miss Yuga, and Miss Shizun. Although we know you are all aware of who you are, and it is an honor to have you here, Lady Sonad. We would be demoted to Jinnon if we let you pass without following protocol, said Kotetsu, trying to sound official, but he came across as a fanatic. The Sanin Babosa shook her head. Great. Not even in the tower and already being venerated. Thank you for your hard work, gentlemen," he said as he approached and filled out the necessary paperwork. "Great. The first paperwork I'll ever do, and I'm not even Hokag yet." "You, Jeriah, and Shizen, do the same. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. Please be sure to present yourselves to the council. They were expecting you," Iumo said professionally. Hokag tower council assembly rooms.ade and company enter the council assembly chamber. The room filled with the three parts of the council consisting of the civilians, the clan heads who make up the shinobi side, and the three fossils who tend to forget that they are not above the Hokag. Danzo stood and took the lead. Ladies and gentlemen of the council, we have gathered here to welcome the last Synu back to the village. He paused, earning applause from all the council members. We understand that you have returned to fill the position that your own sensei Husen Suratobi held for many years as Hokag," he asked, hoping that he had changed his mind.ade scoffed. She had an idea of what he was thinking. "Yes, that's correct. I'll accept the position of Hokag, provided the Jonan Council and the feudal lord approve, of course." She smiled at Danzo and the angry old bats. Very well, said the Warhawk calmly, barely concealing his anger. The feudal lord should arrive in 2 days. We notified him when we sent Jeriah to fetch you. That's why the deadline, Jeriah. I see. Because it wouldn't do any good for his lordship to travel all the way here for nothing. Jeriah grumbled. Now that we have a suitable candidate for Hokag, I believe we have one last item on the table for this meeting. Hamura said, looking at you, Gal. If it's about my destiny as a Kunoichi of Kenoha, I believe I will take control of it, the former said before addressing the renowned medic. Lady, I know I worked with Jeriah and his new student to bring you back and save myself from being dishonorably discharged from the team. However, the time I spent with Tkumi has given me time to reflect. Looked at the young woman, sensing where she was going with this. The swordswoman seemed disoriented ever since Narudo returned to the land of waves. What are you saying? Sum Inazuka, Ka's mother and leader of the Inazuka clan, knew that this young woman was a friend of her daughter Hannah. Lady Inazuka, Lady Council members. After receiving news of my dismissal from the ANBU by the commander and the council of elders, Yugal paused and stared at the three elders who were also under the scrutinizing gaze of the clan chiefs. And the following week, I decided to resign as a Kunoichi of the land of fire. I wished to travel through the elemental nations. She finished, omitting to mention that she wanted to travel with Narudo and train him, all while settling in wave, knowing that this wouldn't sit well with the council. The room erupted in two opposing opinions. The clan leaders were outraged by his dismissal from A&BU over such a matter and the civilians were outraged by his resignation despite knowing his abilities. Silence shouted, silencing the room. I believe we deserve to know exactly why you were relieved of your duties. For those who don't already know, she asked. According to the scroll I received from Ambu Tiger, I requested my leave of absence to make up for the loss of my fiance. Hate at an immature time when the village was in a very vulnerable situation that an A&B you would need time off to make up for the loss of a loved one was pointless. Anyway, Yuga said calmly, barely containing her anger and grief. The civilian side of the council agreed with the elders and theu commander while the clan chiefs could sympathize knowing the dangers of the shinobi lifestyle knowing that even shinobi were still human. Very well. Fill out the resignation forms and submit them to the hokag's desk within 2 days. But I would like to discuss your plans with you in detail, especially if they involve what I believe they do, said authoritatively, prompting the oldest woman in the room to speak. Princess, you cannot make that decision yet. You don't have the authority, Koharu protested. Neither did you, elders, when you expelled her from the A&BU. That decision rests solely with the Hokag. Or have you forgotten that you elders are mere advisers, not rulers? Growled. And to further complicate matters for the fossils, Naruto's messenger, Toad, arrived in a puff of smoke. Seeing where she was and understanding her importance, he spoke respectfully and handed the scroll to Sununade. Lady, Lord Jeriah, and honorable members of the council. I bring news of Lord Jeriah's disciple. He hesitated, unsure whether or not to reveal the boy's name. "Thank you," Sununade said, taking the scroll and reading it. Koharu and Hamira felt dread, while Danzo simply ignored it. It seems you elders have overstepped your bounds again. The Hokag candidate said, "You sent Enko Miashi on a mission to eliminate an unaffiliated Shinobi only to send unidentified AMBU agents whom I suspect belong to Danzo's root program to kill Akunowichi from the village simply because of her past affiliation with Orochimaru and something else I need to confirm with Aiki. If this other information is true, it will be high treason for at least one of you." Two days had passed and the feudal lord had arrived to approve or rejects sununade's promotion to Hokag. Given the importance of the meeting, the civil council was not present precisely because the feudal lord refused to begin the meeting with anyone who had no say in the matter. Those present were all the Jonan, the clan heads, sununade herself, and the ancient fossils who comprise the advisers and the council of elders. Dear people of Kenoha, I applaud your swift response in finding a replacement for the late Husen Saratobi. However, before approving Sununade's appointment as Hokag, is there another candidate for the position? The fire lord asked. Damn it. Without the civilians here, I don't have a chance of getting enough votes for Princess. Even if they were here, the Joon Council and their dislike for my actions, not to mention whatever that damn snake found. Menai didn't stand a chance this time. Danzo raged before speaking in a defeated tone. No, my lord, there's no one else. Shikaku Naron narrowed his eyes. What's he doing? I'm sure he would have introduced himself. Well, what a surprise. I thought you'd put yourself forward like when Manado and Orochimaru were candidates. However, what does the Jonan council think aboutsunade becoming your Hokag? The old man asked, visibly bored. Aside from her self-destructive tendencies, we approve of her becoming the fifth Hokag, said Jonan Commander Shikaku with a mocking smile as he saws with a vein throbbing on her forehead due to her drinking and gambling habits. Although he knows she won't be able to bet as much as in the lottery. Very well, said the fire lord, turning to the blonde woman in the room. Your coronation will be tomorrow. Yes, my lord. I'll be ready, Sununade said with a bow. Excellent. Now I can secretly support Narudo as family. And I don't think I'm the only one doing so. Well, is there anything else that requires my attention, or can it wait until sun is sworn in? Asked the ruler of the land of fire, hiding a small yawn behind his fan. Ibeki nodded. There's something that requires our full attention. Oh, really? What could it be, Mr. Marino? Mr. Shimmy asked with intrigue. The head of the TNI division produced a scroll that made the elders sweat and caused Danzo to narrow his one eye. This scroll implicates the three members of the Council of Elders in high treason against Kenoha and the land of fire as a whole. Danzo has his own personal army which the third lord ordered disbanded and has continued to evade capture. After an investigation, my department discovered that the other two elders have been financially supporting this army known as root. Together, the three of them have used their power and influence to undermine the previous Hokag ever since Lord Saratobi assumed the position. However, the most compelling evidence is that my subordinate managed to intercept a letter between Danzo's root and a subordinate of our greatest traitors, Orochimaru. It contains information that they were collaborating with the snake Sanin during the exams and the invasion, allowing him and his forces to breach our defensive barrier without alerting the entire village, which enabled him to kill Soratobi and bestow upon Sasuke Aiha his curse seal. This is absurd. Where is your subordinate now? Bring him before us to corroborate this story. Kohari Utudetain, the only old woman. I can't. You sent her on a suicide mission under false pretenses. The official mission was to eliminate a girl with extraordinary chakra levels and an ability unrelated to any village. But you three used that as an excuse to get rid of her because of her past connection to Orochimaru, using Danzo's route to kill her. It turns out the boy you sent to kill ended up saving her life, healing her wounds, and realizing she'd been tricked. She's currently recovering in the land of waves under the care of one of our former clients. Ibeki growled. You abused your power not only to expel one of our best Kunoichi from the A&Bu ranks simply because she asked for time to grieve the loss of her fiance who died during the month-long break from the tunin exams following the invasion. Then you abused your power once again by sending special Joon Anko Midarashi on the aforementioned mission. Is all this true you three? The feudal lord asked in a rare moment of seriousness. Seeing that there was a slim chance of salvaging the situation, Danzo decided to speak. My lord, he said, we relieved A&B of her duties because she chose to request a leave of absence at a time when we needed every available shinobi and Kunowichi to protect and help rebuild the village after such a devastating attack. The fact that she also left the village to accompany Jeriah as an additional escort for a civilian family close to our fallen Genturi contributed to our decision that she was unfit to remain with ANBU. As for the special Joon Midarashi, she poses a serious risk to the village, especially with Orochimaru's cursed seal on her neck now revealed. From what we know, they may both be using their shared snake summons to exchange information. First, Ibiki was right about the former Yimu cat. Only the Hokag has the authority to dismiss A&Bu. As for Special Jon and Midarashi, I had the impression that she harbored immense hatred for Orochimaru. I was even told that she attempted to fight her former sensei in the forest of death during the second stage of the exams after discovering he had infiltrated them. The feudal lord said sternly. Speaking of which, you still haven't denied your involvement in the traitor's infiltration, nor have you denied receiving a direct order from the Hokag to disband route. The Warhawks simply frowned and prepared to use Sher Suer's stolen Shainggon to cast the Iin Jutsu Cottoitsukami, which allows the user to enter the mind of any individual within their field of vision and manipulate them by providing false experiences, making it appear as if they are acting of their own free will. It is considered a jin jutzu of the highest quality as the victim is unaware of being manipulated. Unfortunately for him, Hayashi Huga noticed the accumulation of chakra in his eye which was covered by his Bakugan. Why are you accumulating chakra in your right eye? Counselor Shamura. What are you hiding there? The Huga clan chief asked sternly. Okay. Yes. I ignored the pathetic order to disband route. It was a bad decision because we need an organization that can conduct completely off therecord covert operations. Shinobi who will do whatever is required without question without their emotions getting in the way and preventing them from doing what they need to do. Our current AMBU officers are weak and pathetic because they allow themselves to be ruled by their emotions even if they suppress them during a mission. Yimiukat and Yuga Yuzuki are prime examples. Shinobi should be nothing more than tools or soldiers we can command without emotions or conscience. In fact, it's not just the Y and BU who are weak, but all our Shinobi because their emotions control them. The pathetic will of fire that has been preached since Hashiama's time as Hokag is the cause of this village's weakness. So yes, I worked with those two idiots and Orochimaru to kill Harusen and destroy Kinoa so that it could rebuild and grow stronger, one that could conquer and rule the other villages and countries of the elemental nations. Enko Midarashi was a threat to this plan because of her immense hatred for Orochimaru. Since she stumbled upon the meeting between Orochimaru<unk>s subordinate and Myut and read the contents of that letter, it was necessary to get rid of her even under the guise of a mission to eliminate the threat of powerful unaffiliated Shinobi. Danzo said with immense venom, "Danzo Shamura, you are under arrest to stand trial with your chakra sealed." The feudal lord ordered it, but Danzo scoffed and used the body displacement jutzu to vanish. Find him. Put him in the bingo book. Wanted dead or alive. All the shinobi present also vanished to begin their search. However, sununade, the feudal lord, and the two remaining elders stayed behind.Sunady and the ruler of the land of fire stared intently at the advisers. What do you have to say about the charges against you? We surrender," both elders said in unison, knowing they were trapped and had no way out. "Fine, now if you want to avoid the death penalty that usually accompanies high treason, you'll tell us everything, and I mean it,"Sunady said sternly, cracking her knuckles. "I completely agree. Even so, they'll receive life imprisonment, perhaps even house arrest for the rest of their short lives. However, if they hold anything back, we'll make an example of them with a public execution. The Fire Lord smiles. Needless to say, the old fossils saying like canaries, revealing every dirty little secret they knew, from Danzo's plans to the truth behind the Aiha massacre. The schemes to seize Narudo and turn him into a perfect emotionless weapon loyal only to the three of them and their successors to protect the leaf village and eliminate their enemies. When the plan to take over the elemental nations was set in motion, what they told and the feudal lord was so outlandish that they had a Noi Yamanaka use his family's mindwalking techniques to verify everything they said. And once he did, they were detained in a cell overnight to ensure they weren't withholding any information. The top of the Hokag Tower. It was midday the next day and the entire village had gathered in front of the Hokag Tower forsunat's coronation. Everyone was in good spirits. It seemed like things were finally looking up. Well, most people were happy. Sakura was still mourning the loss of her blonde teammate, a source of comfort and light. Since Naruto's death, she felt inferior. She'd been reflecting on all the times she'd punched him just for asking her out after Sasuke had rejected her. All the times he'd cheered her up when she felt useless or discouraged. Now, she missed that more than anything, especially with Sasuke in such a bad mood. and him being even more antisocial and ordinary. Hinata, while searching for her reason to fight, was still recovering from the injuries sustained in the preliminary rounds and mourning the loss of the love of her life. Hinata's reason for living was quite simple. Ka's sincere and unwavering confession of love. Even knowing that she would always love Narudo and never forget him. He would work hard to win her over and help fill the void of motivation and love. He would even help her search for any sign that her rival in love might, however slim the odds, still be alive, which was his true reason for fighting if they were both honest. That didn't stop Ka from keeping his word and being there as a constant source of encouragement. This is a drag. A new Hokag means we<unk>ll soon have the results of the Tunin exams. Shikamaru groaned. Oh, cheer up, Shikamu. Even if you reach Tunin, it doesn't mean we'll stop being a team. Our parents would raise hell if they disbanded the second generation of the Enino Shika Cho team," Eno said confidently. "That's not what worries me. It'll be even more work, and more will be expected of me. It'll just be very troublesome," Nara said with a sigh, knowing full well that she had demonstrated enough skill, tactical thinking, and leadership during the exam and the invasion for a promotion. "We'll work even harder next time so that we can all reach Tunin. We need to intensify our training to make up for the loss of Narudo and all the other shinobi we lost in the invasion. Choji said with determination. Narudo, I still can't believe they killed that idiot. His victory over Ka and Niji was impressive. Even though he accidentally farted in Ka's face. I just hope that wherever he is, he's happy and in a better place. The blonde girl said solemnly, receiving nods of agreement from her classmates. Do you think there will be a team 7 after this? I mean, from what I heard, Sasuke was already being trained by Kakashi sensei and Sakura was talking about becoming a medical ninja, right? Akimichi asked a relevant question. That will depend on Kakashi sensei, I suppose, whether he accepts Sasuke as an apprentice, leaves us all together, or agrees to take some from the reserves, even if that means more team drills. Actually, I hope I can talk to Lady Sunsade about studying with her," Sakura said with a fake smile. "Sakura, what's wrong? You haven't eaten or bathed in ages. Are you okay?" Eno asked frankly. "Yes. Did you sleep well?" "No offense, but you look and smell terrible," Ka said, approaching while holding Hinata with his arm around her shoulders and his own around her waist. Ka, how rude of Hinata. "Hello, everyone." "No, it's okay. You're right. I haven't been taking good care of myself lately. I know it's only been a little over a week since he died, but I miss him terribly. The pink-haired girl began to sob as Hinata hugged her. "I miss him, too," Hinata said solemnly. "I treated him like trash. I hit him when he tried to cheer me up after Sasuke rejected me on a date or when I felt useless on missions. Now I'll never be able to make it up to him." Sakura cried. Sakura Eno thought as Hinata hugged her, holding back tears. Normally, the Huga Aerys would have wanted to seriously injure the pink-haired girl for her abuse. However, seeing her genuine remorse, she decided to comfort her and try her best to befriend her lost love's teammate. Come on, Sakura. We'll visit the memorial stone later to pay our respects. You can even leave the flowers on my family shop account. But right now, we must show respect to the new Hokag. Eno said quietly. Sakura nodded as she stood up with Hinata supporting her and KBO rushing to help. Eno smiled but looked up and saw the fireworks announcing the start of the opening ceremony. Ladies and gentlemen of Kinoa, thank you for joining me on this auspicious day. Today we swear in the fifth Hokag, none other thanSunady Sanenju, granddaughter of the first Hokag and one of the legendary Sanin, the feudal lord, shouted to the village. The crowd roared with applause. Everyone cheered and celebrated the rise of a new Hokag and the restoration of security that came with it. Even the most grieving among them cheered. The first step, dressed in her hokag robes and hat, smiling. Thank you, good people of Kenoa. It is an honor and a privilege to return to the village and take up the mantle from the greatest heroes this village has ever seen. I will honor you all, including those who did not become Hokag, but who gave their lives in service to our great nation, doing everything possible to keep this village safe, even at the cost of my own life. The people of Kohaa roared with joy and celebration. What they didn't know was that things were about to change. Tsunady was going to dissolve the civilian council and with the remaining village elders facing life imprisonment under house arrest only the shinobi council would remain. The village was about to become a shinobi village once again. The academy was going to undergo a profound reform. Now before the feudal lord and I bid you farewell for today. I've learned something that frankly makes me furious with most of you. The fifth Hokag began only to be interrupted by the one person she actually answered to. "What are you doing? What has the town done that has made you furious?" "And why didn't you tell me last night at the meeting?" she whispered in his ear. "Excuse me, but with Danzo's escape and the problems that led him to flee, I didn't have a chance to mention it. But allow me to tell the village," she whispered before turning her attention back to the village after receiving a slow nod from the man at her side. I've learned that the history of my grandmother's clan, the Yuzumaki, has been removed from the academy curriculum. Furthermore, before his death, a member of my family was treated as if he wasn't who he was. I think it's time you knew that you celebrated the death of who is possibly the last of my family, Narudo Usuzamaki, the Genturiki of the ninetailed demon fox. You treated him as if he were the fox himself when he was nothing more than its jailer. she screamed, causing the crowd to erupt in denial and disbelief, which only enraged her further. While the clans and Rookie 11 wondered where she was going with this silence, stop and ask yourselves this question. If a canai is sealed inside a scroll, does that scroll become the canai? The answer, no, it doesn't. So, how is Narudo Usuzamaki any different? To make matters worse, while they practically worship the fourth Hokag, Manado Namicase, idiots failed to see the resemblance between him and his son, who had no choice but to seal the ninetailes inside him. They were mistreating and marginalizing the son of the yellow flash and his wife, Kushina Usuzamaki, the Red Death. Therefore, they were spitting on the legacy and memory of the fourth. Once again, the crowd split into two groups. those who had lost family members in the Ninetales attack who were in denial and disbelief and the clans and the rookie 11 who were shocked and amazed. While they shared the disbelief of those expressing their feelings, it wasn't the same. They couldn't believe they had never seen the resemblance between Narudo and the fourth Hokag, which had been right under their noses all this time. All it took was removing Naruto's whiskers to see a younger Manado Namicase. The clans who knew Manado and Cusha were ashamed of not having helped their friend's son at all. "Sonady, is it true?" asked the feudal lord, barely containing his anger against the village that treated the daughter of his senior Hokag in this way. "Every word, I'll explain it to you in my office shortly." The slug sanin nodded, earning a stern look and a nod in return before turning to the crowd one last time. "You may leave. While you are free to deny the truth, know that I can and will provide evidence to anyone who wants it. Just know that any disturbance will be stopped. With that, the two most influential figures headed to the building's rooftop. Everyone else stormed off or walked away to return to their homes to think about the revelations that had been brought to them. Sakura, Hinata, and the rest of the rookies who were together simply stayed there as Sakura slumped to her knees with a blank stare on her face. Narudo, the son of the fourth Hokag, and he carried such a heavy burden. So that red chakra was what he used during our mission to the land of waves. And during his fight with Niji, Sakura said in shock, feeling even worse. Niji approached with a sad look. So he didn't know what it meant to live with a mark that defined him. In fact, he would have been a worthy eternal rival if he were still alive. To have lived with such a burden and still have such a youthful perspective on life is inspiring, Rockley said in his usual loud voice. But Lady is right, Narudo wasn't the fox. I know that better than anyone since I'm an aspiring weapons master, Tinten said confidently. Everyone except Sasuke agreed. O, even if he was the Ninetales, he's dead. He was a weakling, a waste of potential regardless of his lineage. I bet the Yuzumaki clan was a bunch of weaklings, even if two of them married Hokage. They have nothing to do with the Aiha, he said before turning around and heading off to train. Sasuke, Sakura frowned. Did our time with Narudo mean nothing to you? Was what you told him during the exams a lie? Come on, Sakura, Hinata, and anyone else who misses that dumb blonde. Let's go pay our respects at the memorial stone after buying flowers at my family shop. Eno said with surprising harshness towards her supposed platonic love. Anyway, I have to train," Sasuke said without flinching and went to Team 7's training ground. "How immature. Let's pay our respects," Lee said with a frown, receiving a nod from his fellow Jinnon. Off to the side, no one noticed Jeriah watching the jinn whensade suddenly announced. thinking Narudo would want to know what was going on. He was surprised that his students former crush was punishing herself for how she had treated him. However, he was pleased to learn that they would have accepted his burden if he were still there, especially the cute girl with the panda bond. I'll have to inform Narudo when I returned away for his training. But I think I'll stay until Yuga's resignation is confirmed that he thought this before heading to Sununade's new office, Hokag's office. Sununade and Mr. Sure. Jimmy was sitting in the office. The latter looked extremely displeased. I can't believe you treated Manado's son like this. However, I would like you to send proof to my palace. I mean everything. Naruto's medical records and the DNA tests that prove he is his son. Of course, my lord. I will gather everything by the end of the week, Sununade said respectfully. Take care, the feudal lord said firmly. Now I must go. Make sure my wife's cat receives the necessary care if it escapes again. Of course, sir. Have a good trip. The new Hokag bowed as he left. Damn. Being so formal is a drag. Sunsade thought with a sigh before straightening up. Get me Yuga Yuzuki. One of the hidden A and BU emerged to carry out his order. Shortly after, Jera crawled through the window. So, Mr. Shajimi's gone, huh? How did it go? He said with a mocking smile. Oh, shut up, he growled before glaring at me. And the next time you come in through the window, you'll find your way back to wave through my fist. Okay, okay, I suppose you just sent for Yuga, he said with a dismissive gesture. Grumbles at her dismissal before calming down. Yes, she should be here soon. I suppose you'll leave as soon as we're done with her, won't you? Yes, that's the plan. Assuming he's right about his plans, he said seriously, receiving a nod from his former partner. Yes, I think we both feel the same way, Sununade nodded before there was a knock at the door. Come in. Did you call me to see Lady Sununady? Yuga asked, dressed in her standard armor despite her resignation as she entered. Yes, it's time to talk about your resignation letter, Sununade said before signaling herbu. Before they could continue, Yugao approached the wall to the left of Sununade's desk and stabbed the hidden rooe agent. "Damn, Danzo. I figured he'd keep his agents in the village even after being declared a criminal." "Thank you, Miss Yizuki." grunted and slammed her fist on the desk before calming down. "So, is it safe to assume you're willing to leave the village to continue being Naruto's kenjutsu teacher?" "Yes, Madam Hokag, but that's not all. I plan to collaborate with him on missions unless he has another plan, the former Yinbu said simply. Sununady and Jera nod, slightly surprised that she accepted missions with him considering their quick connection and what they saw when she was stabbed. All right, then. I approve of your resignation, but I trust you won't reveal or share any Canoa secrets. If we find out you have, we won't hesitate to send the hunter ninja after you. Understand? With all due respect, Madame Hokag, but since Narudo possesses the shadow clone jutzu, an A-rank Kenjutsu, in addition to having the means to learn the Heratan, a jutzu created by his great uncle, Lord second, and popularized by my students father, Lord Forth, I believe that asking me to keep the secrets of this village is irrelevant," Yugao remarked respectfully. While that's true, as a former Ambu agent, you know far more than he does about the vill's dirty secrets. Secrets that could bring about our destruction if revealed. Jeriah retorted. Yes, I understand. He nodded, understanding her point. In fact, he knew more than Narudo, who was only a jinon before he deserted. I suppose you want me to tell Naro to do the same. I mean, not to teach anyone the shadow clone jutzu or the flying thunder god technique. That would be best. Yes, both techniques originated in Kenoha. However, the raising gan is technically his and he can teach it as he wishes since it can be considered a clan secret. Sununade said professionally. Very well. And what about Enko? By now, they must be inseparable considering their similar origins as outcasts of this village. The purple-haired woman asked curiously. Secretly, she wanted Anko to stay in the wave and help Narudo. But officially, she remained the Leaf Village's Kunoichi. Let her return for now. If she wishes to resign after what those old fossils did to her and how the village treated her, I will grant her request. The fifth Hokag frowned. She truly didn't want to lose one of her best interrogators, but she also knew it was Lady Snake's decision. Very well, said the swordswoman, frowning. Before you leave though, I'd like to ask you a favor. I promised to pay her for the secret to avoid the paperwork. Would you be willing to give it to me? The busted blonde asked with a mocking smile. Of course, I suppose it will take a while to get paid, asked Yuga, who nodded. That would give me time to say goodbye and pack my things. Very well. I'll have it ready by sunset, Sununade said with a smile. With your permission, Madame Hokag, Mr. Jeriah said the former with a slight bow and left the room. You know Anko will resign too unless you convince her to stay here as one of your contacts. Even if you plan to be one of her informants, her past with Orochimaru will be a permanent stain on her reputation. Even if she leaves the village, Jeriah said gravely. I know, and I won't blame her if she resigns. After all, I have no right to judge those who wish to distance themselves from their past or the memories this village holds for them. Sunade frowned. Jeriah frowned, realizing he was right. How do you plan to be their informant? Your ambu protection will be with you at all times. Not to mention Shizun and her unwavering loyalty to the village. That part's easy. Along with the promised payment, I'll include a message asking you to send me messenger toads periodically. Not to mention the important missions where we might need your help once you've made a name for yourself. Heck, I might even send you on a big mission to get yourself noticed. The slug Sanin said with a grin. I see that's what the mission idea might involve. Just be careful. Shizun is a smart girl. She'll start to suspect you if you ask to be alone with her every time she comes over, said the super pervert with a thoughtful look. I appreciate your concern, Jeriah, but I'll be careful. So smiled slightly. She truly appreciated his concern, even if it was for the sake of her eternal love. Okay, well, I'll do some research while I can. That brat and Yuga will pressure me to focus on his training, especially since I'm on thin ice with him for not being his godfather," Jeriah said, climbing out the window to try and hide his depression. "Speaking of which, she asked you who her godmother was at the inn, right? Who is Slash? Was she?" asked trying to distract her companion from his depression, unaware that she was making it worse. Makoto Wiiha, he said before jumping out the window into the hot springs, impacting the slug saninine. It was then that she signaled her A and BU to return and Shisen ran away in a panic. Lady, the Shinobi clans demand a council meeting after your revelation. The fifth Hokag side for what seemed to be the hundth time that day. I suppose I should have expected it. Anyway, I need to ask you something, Kany. The now former Kenoha Kunoi headed to her usual meeting place where she knew her two friends were waiting to hear the final verdict on her resignation letter. She was genuinely saddened to say goodbye to them, but she resolved to support Narudo in every way she could. She had promised to be his Kenjutsu sensei and intended to keep that promise. Yuga, this way, Hannah Inazuka said, pulling her friend from her thoughts. She was a stunningly beautiful woman with straight brown hair tied in a ponytail. Unlike her brother and mother, who were drawn to her wild animalistic appearance, her/ black eyes, and the Inazuka Fong tattoo on her cheeks, she wasn't wearing her usual Chunin uniform, as she was technically on leave. Instead, she wore a tight-fitting t-shirt and shorts along with shinobi sandals. "Hannah, Karinai, thank you for waiting for me. I didn't expect the meeting to end so quickly," said the purple-haired woman with a sad smile. "Okay, how did it go?" Karinai asked with the same sad smile. "She could guess what had happened, and if she was right, it meant there would be one less ice queen in the village. I was approved. Now I'm self-employed like the student I told you about. The swordswoman replied. Well, I'm personally happy for you, Yugal. If it weren't for this mysterious student of yours, you'd still be mourning hate. This Tomai has given you a purpose. If I'm ever in the wave, remind me to give him a thank you kiss, Hannah said with a teasing smile and a wink. What does it matter, isn't it? I'm just teaching him kjutsu and he's literally half our age. Besides, he already has an arranged marriage with the leader of Nadishiko village," Yuga protested, oblivious to the slight blush creeping across her cheeks. "Yes, okay, so that blush is nothing," Karinai joked before turning serious. "But seriously, she's right. We owe her one for cheering you up. Bring her along when you're job hunting. We'd love to meet her sometime." "You're right. Make him strong for his fiance. Those Kunoichi from Nadashiko village are no joke. I've run into some on missions. They're incredibly strong. I hope you have someone who can teach him more than just kenjutsu because he's going to need more than that to defeat their leader. Hannah said in the same serious tone. I assure you it will be all right, especially if things go as I think they will. The purple one said confidently. You mean Anko? Karina size, receiving a nod from the former ENBU. You're right. With what the village put her through and what you've told us, I wouldn't blame her if she decided to quit. Aside from us, Iiki and Enochi, there's nothing keeping her here. Well, I'd better go home and get what I need for the trip and clean my apartment, Yuga said, getting up, starting to feel uneasy. I promise I'll take care of Anko if she decides to go back to wave. Okay, take care. Keep in touch. All right. I'm sure you can buy messenger falcons at the aviary, Hannah said with a sad smile. If not, perhaps I can convince Tomai to let me use his summoning to stay in touch. I'll find a way. Don't worry, Yuga said one last time before leaving for her apartment. Once there, she packed all her clothes and weapon maintenance supplies before pausing to look at the photo of herself. And hey, one last time. Goodbye, my love. I will pass on your swordsmanship to a worthy successor. I only hope you approve of my leaving the village, she said softly before leaving the apartment and locking the door. Meanwhile, council rooms. As soon as entered the council chamber, she was met with very angry clan heads, especially those close to Manado and Kusha. Lady Sununady, could you explain why you didn't inform us about Manado and Kushin's child last night? Hayashi asked calmly, but his irritation was evident in his grip on her sleeves. Aside from having to deal with Danzo and the elders who overstepped their authority, the truth is I didn't know until I got to my office after our meeting when I read my former sensei's journal which he left for the future Hokag. I didn't think they would have appreciated being called in so late and already searching for the traitor. So even though I revealed Naruto's lineage in the heat of the moment, I don't regret it. I'm sure some of you would have tried to get me out of this or would have said I would be less brusque and brutal than I was,"Sunady said firmly. "Although they weren't happy, the clan leaders understood his reasoning as that was exactly what they would have done. Troublesome. Even if it's true, your announcement could have the adverse effect of further demoralizing our already low forces." We can only hope to recover before the other great nations learn of our defeats," Shikaku said before seeing Sununade ready to send him flying off to some distant place with her fists. "Don't misunderstand me. I didn't see the boy as the fox or as a weapon. However, the point is that without him, we've lost our deterrent. We're at a disadvantage if the other villages attack. We're lucky that Suna agreed to renew its alliance with us after its joint attack with Orochimaru. Well, morale is low. What do we do? She asked angrily. Oh, for goodness sake. The village will recover. We always do. Hi preached that the will of fire was strong. And while it angers me that I didn't know the pup was cushioning his son, I doubt that his loss and the old man's will end our beliefs. Soon groaned, visibly annoyed by the melodrama. From now on, we ask that you refrain from such underhanded tactics in the future. As Shikaku said, "We are in a delicate situation and revealing such sensitive information to the public will do more harm than good." Enochi said respectfully. "Very well,"Sunate agreed. "Do you want anything else?" "Yes, in fact, we wanted to inform you that neither with my clan's bakugan, nor with the Inuzuka ninja hounds were we able to locate Danzo or his hidden base," Hayashi reported. "Damn it," he said, slamming his fist on the table. Fine, carry on with your search. That old war hawk knows too much to leave alone. Back off. I might need to ask Narudo and Jeriah for help with this quest. And I know Narudo won't be too happy about it. The blonde Hokag thought as everyone began to clear the room. Wait, there's one more matter that requires your attention. As you know, Jeriah, Yuga, and the independent shinobi named Takumi were responsible for my return. Along the way, Takumi gave me information that everyone should know. The secret to avoiding paperwork. As clan leaders, I know you have your own affairs to deal with daily. I believe this young man should be paid an S-rank mission for this information. And what is that secret? Chos asked curiously. Smiled and summoned a shadow clone, surprising the council. However, Shibi asked what everyone was wondering. How did this Takcomi learn the shadow clone jutzu? He's a student of Jeriah with incredible chakra reserves comparable to those of the Usuzamaki clan, he said with a mocking smile, receiving nods of understanding. Jeriah never cared what he taught his students, and neither did they, as long as it wasn't a clan secret. Now then, raise your hand if you're in favor of paying this shinobi for S-rank missions in exchange for this information. Needless to say, everyone present raised their hand, earning a smile from the new Hokag, who glanced at Shizun. Shisun, I trust you can relay this to the mission's payment office so they can process it as an urgent request. Our delivery staff departs at nightfall. Yes, Lady. I'll make sure it's ready right away, said the black-haired assistant, though she wasn't entirely in agreement. Why are we paying someone who has nothing to do with us? Something doesn't add up. Before Takcomi left, they seemed to have become very close in the short time he was there. And I was unconscious almost the entire time because of that slap. I wonder if Lady Sununade is hiding something from me. She used to tell me everything. All right, you may leave. Just remember to keep searching for our traitor, Warhawk, said rising to leave the room, followed shortly after by everyone else. Sunset, gates of Kohaa. Yuga and Jeriah were at the door waiting for Sununade and Naruto's payment. Karinai and Hannah were with them, having come to see their friend off. "Remember, darling, you're always welcome and have a home here. We<unk>ll keep your house clean for when you and your student come to work," Karinai said with a sad smile. "You're right. So, don't be a stranger. I was serious about coming to wave to see this student who caught your interest," Hannah said with a teasing smile. "Shut up. I told you it's not like that. You know it's too soon to move on to another relationship. Yugal said seriously. Both ice queens nodded as Sununade approached with Shizun who was holding a scroll. Her expression indicated she disagreed with everything that was happening. Didn't seem to notice or if she did, she chose to ignore it. "Ah, I see you have friends who are seeing you off. It's wonderful that you have friends who care so much about you, Sununade said with a smile before turning to her assistant. Shizun, give the scroll to Yuga. Lady Sununady, should we really give so much money to someone we barely know for mere information? Asked the black-haired woman, clearly reluctant to follow the order. Now, Shizun, the council has approved this. Do you intend to go against the council and make us out to be liars who don't keep our agreements? The slug Sanin rebuked her with authority in her voice. "Yes, Madam Hokag," Shizun said meekly and defeatedly as she handed the scroll to the former Yian Beyu, who took it with a nod. "Thank you, Madam Hokage. Yes, I am very fortunate to have you as friends." "And thank you again for accepting my resignation," Yugao said respectfully with a smile, placing the scroll in her pouch on her hip. "You're welcome. Take care of yourself and your student. I'll contact you if we need any help either through Katillaa or Jeriah when he gets in touch with me. Sununade said, nodding. We have to go, Jeriah said with his arms crossed, not looking disdainfully at the beautiful women in the area. I told Tkumi we'd arrive in the morning. Well, and by then we should have arrived since we don't have any civilians to stop us, said the purple-haired beauty, earning a nod from Toad Toad. And with that, both of Naruto's teachers waved goodbye before running off into the forest while Karinai, Hannah, andSunady waved back as Shizun frowned in the background. In the land of waves, while everything was happening in Kenoha, Narudo and Enko were getting to know each other better, each sharing how they dealt with being outcasts. I am even mentioned her favorite Narudo jokes. She smiled as she watched her new boyfriend and fellow outcast grow closer, almost like siblings. She wouldn't be surprised if Anko met Naruto's mother. "What will you do, Anko? Yuga sensei and the pervy sage will be here tomorrow?" Narudo asked sadly. He really didn't want her to leave. "Well, I have to return to the village to at least submit my resignation and apologize to Iiki, Karinai, and Hannah before I go back. I know I could be their eyes and ears in tea and I, but I've really grown to love this place these past few days and enjoyed our time together," she said with a sigh. "Also, before I leave tomorrow, we need to discuss your idea of turning this place into a sanctuary for people falsely accused of crimes or mistreated by their villages who are seeking refuge in exchange for defending the land of waves. I think it's something we should discuss with Tzuna and the town council, not to mention the feudal lord of Tiara del Fuego since God destroyed these lands, he said, showing that he was hiding. Even so, we should polish the details before presenting ourselves to the officials, he said with a chuckle, earning the nods of the two present in the room. Personally, I think it's a splendid idea. I would certainly feel safer if we had our own defense force to protect us from people like God. However, I think the three of you should get some sleep. After all, your friends will be arriving early, Tsunami said, leaving the kitchen after finishing washing the dinner dishes. I suppose you're right. Anyway, I still have to go to the fire capital to check on my parents' finances. I haven't had time lately, Naro said with Anko looking embarrassed. Yes, I'm sorry. If it weren't for that fake mission, you could have done that errand, he said, scratching the back of his neck. Oh, don't worry. I wouldn't have left wondering what was wrong with you, Gao Sensei. Besides, it's been fun getting to know you for real after our first encounter at the Tunin exams, she said with a giggle. You're right. I think we were all worried about the consequences of her resignation. We just have to wait until tomorrow to see what happens in Kenoha, Aim said before yawning. Come on, we have to get up early tomorrow. Understanding the hint, Narudo nodded and followed Aam to the room they had shared since they met. Although they only cuddled, none of the adults hesitated to let the new couple sleep together, knowing that Narudo wasn't ready to take that step, despite the shinobi saying, "Old enough to kill, old enough to drink, old enough to sleep." In truth, Narudo had a healthy or perhaps unhealthy, depending on how you looked at it, fear of women. And somehow he knew that his fianceé, whoever she was, would want her future husband to be as pure as she herself probably was. The next morning, Narudo, who was up very early, woke up to a knock at the door. Groaning, he pulled away from Aam, stumbled downstairs, and opened the door. "When you said at dawn, I didn't think you meant it literally." He groaned. "You've spent too much time with Kakashi. You've learned to expect people to be late," Yuga said dryly. Yes, yes, come in. But be quiet. Everyone is still sleeping, said the former blonde, rubbing his eyes to shake off the sleepiness. Goodness, couldn't they have arrived a little late? I should have thrown my snakes at them, Anko said in a radiant tone. The swordswoman laughed a little. You were never an early riser, my friend. The snake teacher grumbled and laid down on the sofa trying to stay awake with Narudo collapsing beside her, demonstrating to the two teachers how close they had become. They said nothing about it as they both continued trying to wake up. A couple of hours passed. Jeriah and Yuga took the opportunity to rest a bit before starting their day, but they were woken up by Inari, Tsunami, and Tazuna, who were coming downstairs. I see everyone's here. Well, except for Aam and Tuchi, but I hope they get up soon," Tunami said with a smile. "I'm going to start preparing breakfast." Tuna looked at the swordswoman and asked firmly. "I assume your resignation was accepted without issue, which means you're free to go wherever you like." "Yes, and I obtained formal permission from Lady Sonade, the new Hokag, to teach Narudo." He nodded in response, easing her worries. Okay. Although, I think you should change your outfit. People might be suspicious of you if you go around dressed as an A&BU without your mask. Tsunami said from the kitchen. H I suppose you're right. The former Yinbu mused aloud. I'll have to find a more permanent place to live as well. While I appreciate you hosting me during my visit, I don't want to get bored. Not to mention, I won't be able to live with Narudo and the Icharaka family once the restaurant is finished. Why? I am asked sleepily before sinking down next to her boyfriend, resting her head on his shoulder. You'd be more than welcome to stay with us between missions. It would also help with Naruto's training if you lived with us. Um, something tells me that would be awkward, so I'll pass, Yuga said with a serious face before smiling smuggly. When did this happen? Are you already cheating on your fianceé, Naro? Oh, whatever. I don't even know this girl. Besides, there's no guarantee she'll accept or even be willing to participate in this arrangement. She could fight me to keep her promise and already have a guy at home she wants to be with." Narudo groaned, unaware that simply meeting his fianceé would be enough for them to get along. "At least I know I am will always be there for me, just like she always has been." I am blushed, but still smiled and snuggled closer to him, if possible, without climbing onto his lap. Yugao nodded and smiled at the sight of her happy student. Don't be so sure. Those Kunowichi from Nadishiko village value honor, hard work, and strength. Something you already have in abundance. You'll only get stronger when we're done with you, Jeriah said simply. I'm surprised they considered you in that case, the red-haired teenager said with a serious expression. Correct me if I'm wrong, but spying on women in their most intimate moments and abandoning your godson for the first 12 years of his life isn't very honorable. Of course, spying is what got me into this mess. The toad Sanin merely sighed. He knew a long road to redemption lay ahead, but he didn't know how long he had harbored resentment toward Narudo. Enko simply smiled smugly. She liked the real Narudo. He seemed to have grown tired of other people's nonsense and wasn't afraid to speak his mind. Then he realized he should ask what was going on in town. Hey, what happened while I was gone? Did anything happen to the confiscated letter I gave to Aiki? Actually, yes. Danzo is on the run while the elders are under house arrest. All the crimes and conspiracies have been exposed. Unfortunately, that also means Narudo and I might be called upon to assist in the search for the old Warhawk. Furthermore, Sununade revealed Naruto's heritage and burden to the public, nearly sparking a riot. She said before turning to her godson, "You'd be pleased to know that most of the jin sympathize with you for possessing Kurama. The only one who seemed overly arrogant or concerned was the Aiha. He called you a waste of potential and your clan weak. obviously unaware of your clan strength, but he doesn't know that it took a combined force from three shinobi villages to destroy his village, and not without suffering massive losses. Anyway, your former teammate, the pink-haired one, was really beating herself up for how she'd treated you. In fact, she looked like she hadn't slept or eaten well. She looked even thinner, if that's possible. The Huga Aerys looked better and she even had more support from her teammate Inazuka who from what I could see has feelings for her. Yamanaka even yelled at the Aiha for his comment about you. H so Sakura's been punishing herself since my death. Hinata and Ka are getting along better. Sasuke is acting like his usual jerk and his two fan girls are starting to catch on. On the other hand, Eno's always been one to defend the indefensible. I can just imagine her snapping at Sasuke for talking badly about me, especially if her friends hurt by it. One of her few redeeming qualities, Narudo shrugged. It almost seems like you admire the Yamanaka Aerys. Anko joked, which earned the former blonde another shrug. I admit she's attractive, and even though she scolded me when I ignored Sasuke and never hit me, except for that one time in class, she was still just a fan who didn't take her career seriously. That fight and the draw with Sakura prove it. She said indifferently before noticing I am looking slightly worried. Relax. I don't want anything to do with girls in Kenoha. I don't see myself loving anyone other than you and maybe this girl I'll have to fight someday either. In the hidden cloud village, an 18-year-old woman with dark skin and silver hair, wearing a gray business jacket with red trimmed mesh armor, a gray mid thigh skirt and gray heels with her hair tied in a bun, sneezed, causing her to drop the paperwork she was carrying for the rakage to sign and evaluate. "Damn it, who's talking about me? I know the rakage isn't that impatient and I don't have many friends," she said, gathering the scattered papers with a sigh, ignoring the shiver that ran down her spine as if she were about to meet someone very important to her. "Back on the wave." "You realize you just cursed yourself, right, kid?" Tazuna said with a smile. "Whatever," Narudo said with a sigh. "Breakfast is ready," Tunami called from the kitchen, summoning everyone to the table. you can talk about what you discussed last night at dinner. And so they did. Narudo mentioned that he wanted to establish a security force for Wave to prevent people like God from exploiting the land again and to protect the people from rogue ninja who would attack them. Anko added that since Danzo was on the run, he also posed a threat to Wave if he wanted to keep a low profile. That is if he didn't go to Orochimaru since they were in cahoots. However, although everyone knew that Narudo was sincere in wanting to protect Wave, they knew that what worried him most were Aim and Tuchi. While your idea has merit, officially there are only three of you here and one of you has a large network to manage. Even if Anko returns after resigning, there will only be two of you at a time. Especially since we know each of you intends to work independently, we'll have to find a way to bring in more Shinobi. We'll present it to the city council once more. Shinobi agree. In the meantime, I suggest at least one of you stay behind when the others leave, Tzuna said thoughtfully. I suppose that's acceptable, Naruto gave in. We<unk>ll be all right, Narudo. I am sad, kissing him on the cheek and relieving his tension. Well, I should be going, Iiki and the girls are probably worried about me, Enko said, getting up and stretching before putting on her trench coat. If everything goes according to plan, I should be back in 3 days. I hope everything goes well for you in the capital. Be careful in Kenoha. Unlike me, who's been declared dead, your departure will only further damage your reputation. Rumors will likely circulate that you're returning to Pedamaru to reveal village secrets. That could jeopardize your resignation, the former blonde said earnestly before letting go of Aam and embracing him. his head buried in Anko's generous breasts, which made him blush. "It's so sweet of you to worry about me, but I'm not worried about my reputation. As long as my friends and my little brother believe in me, I'll be fine." He said he was getting nervous. At least I am was taking it calmly. Even though she was annoyed that her boyfriend had been taken from her like that, but she laughed at his nervousness. Finally, she let go of him and left through the door. "Well, I'm off. take care of him for me. Anko, Yugal sighed, but with an amused smile. Anyway, Narudo, you and Jeriah should go. I'll stay here to protect the house while you're gone. Narudo nodded and thanked her as he stood up and prepared to leave after giving Aam a kiss on the cheek and saying goodbye for now. One week later, after accessing Manado and Cusha's accounts without much trouble, thanks to the strict instructions they left for sealing their vault, only their blood relatives could access it. Jeriah shook his head in amusement, stating that he should have known they would resort to blood seals. If he had to guess, it was Naruto's mother who insisted, as she wasn't entirely confident the village would deplete its savings for the village's sake. Narudo laughed sadly, wishing he had met her since he'd heard they looked so alike. Enko arrived in Kenoha and left three days later. One day to return and deliver her resignation letter, one day for it to be approved since accepted it, one day to pack, and one day to say goodbye to her friends and supporters. They all had a big dango feast along with plenty of sake, which explains why it took her 3 days to return to Wave. She needed to sleep the night before to get over her hangover. However, before leaving the next morning, Sununady reluctantly asked Anko to deliver a mission scroll to Jeriah and Narudo, a request for help in finding information on Danzo, and if possible, capturing or killing him. Anko accepted the task, emphasizing that the black-haired teenager wouldn't be happy, but she would accept the mission since she knew he couldn't be demanding about the missions he received. However, while Narudo was away, Yuga and Enko fought off attacks from petty bandits who thought he would be an easy target. Unaware that Shinobi lived there, they didn't even manage to cross the bridge. As Yuga and Enko took turns guarding the key access point for trade, so naturally, he wasn't happy when he returned. Everyone was sitting in Tzuna's house getting ready for dinner while Amam tried to calm Naro down. Relax. They were just petty bandits. That's why Yuga stayed. No villagers were hurt. They didn't even come near the house, she said, hugging him. Naruto's eyes glowed a mix of red and blue, and his whiskers thickened and thinned simultaneously. Even Beahheim trembled in his sheath. I don't care. They targeted my new home where my most precious being lives. I won't forgive them, even if they're dealt with. I swear the next bandit will meet the same fate as Kabuto. Narudo, calm down. I promise we'll find more people who have nowhere to go and put the defense force into action as soon as possible. Jeriah said worriedly. You're right. One of us will always be here to defend the city until then. Mere bandits are nothing to us, Enko said, trying to sound confident. But she was actually worried. She'd heard what happens when Narudo uses his sword in conjunction with the fox's power. And with the sword trembling like that, it was as if it demanded to cut, reacting to its master's wrath. Naro nodded and took a deep breath to calm himself. As he did, Bahheim stopped rattling, causing everyone to sigh in relief. Narudo glanced at Enko earlier. How did she get back to the leaf village? Lady Snake sighed before pulling out a mission scroll. It turns out she was expecting my resignation and processed it in a single day. It only took me 3 days to go and return because of Beiki and the girls treated me to Dango and Sake. However, as I was leaving, Lady reluctantly gave me this scroll to deliver to you and that perverted old man. Jeriah sighed as Narudo took the scroll to read it. After reading it carefully, he sighed again. We expected this sooner or later, but not this soon. It's only been a week since Danzo fled. kid. With how much the Warhawk knows, he's a serious security risk. And with his private army and the time he's had, he could be anywhere," Jeriah said in a subdued voice. "I'm sure he's with my old sensei. But we don't know where that slimy bastard is hiding," Anko complained. "Any idea where we should start?" the little black boy asked Curtly. "No idea. However, it's almost time for me to meet one of my informants in Kumo. We should probably leave tomorrow, said the wise toad as he leaned back in his chair. I am frowned at the thought of having so little time with her boyfriend, but she knew what she was getting into by agreeing to go out with the shinobi. Narudo seemed to feel the same way as he felt her pulling him closer, his brow furrowed as he nodded. However, he had a feeling that something important was about to happen in Kumo.