The Burning Leaves: Hell's Fury

Disclamer: I do not own Naruto or any material related to the story of Naruto. Masashi Kishimoto/SHUSISHA Inc., Takashi Yano, and Masatoshi Kusakabe along with probably a couple others own the rights and produced the official material. Be sure to support them for their excellent work!

Before you start:

This is part two of a fan-fiction. If you haven't read "The Burning Leaves" (by ajd09), this is probably not going to make too much sense...at all. Part one is a long read for some, but I really put a lot of time into it and there are just some things you can't figure out if you skip that much story. If you still want to read, go for it, I can't tell you how to live your life ;)

Thoughts are portrayed in italics, usually following context to let you know who is thinking it. That's how I like doing it. I feel like I'm being redundant, but hopefully no one noticed. "Hah! Definitely not being redundant, right friends?"

I'm rather excited to finally bring you this, as I love this fan-fic. However, don't feel afraid to drop some criticism here if you don't like something. If you want more behind-the-scenes or want to casually chat, you can find a link to a forum on my profile. I'd love to hear from everyone! Wait no longer! Please enjoy!

Chapter 1: Grand Reunion

Yuuki jolted awake, rolling to the side. She gently inhaled before letting out a deep sigh. "Today's the day…" The woman jumped out of bed, getting properly clothed. She looked out the window, watching the clouds roll by. "I'm probably going to miss this place."

Another voice entered the room. "Then come back, obviously."

Yuuki turned her head to Lili with a stoic expression. "You know, it always seems like someone's just waiting for me to wake up so they can say something stupid." Yuuki rubbed her head. "You ready to go, Lili?"

She sighed, listing her hand to the side. "Another pointless tournament...we have nothing to gain by participating, you know?"

Yuuki grinned. "I figured you would say that. Don't be scared. It's even being held in a beautiful setting near the beaches." She put her hand in her hair. "Sure to be a lot of good-looking guys there."

Lili turned away sharply. "Whatever. Let's hurry up."

As they left, Darui and Samui cut them off. The Raikage went first. "You've been a great asset and a pleasure to teach, Akiko." He rubbed his head. "It's sure gonna be dull around here once you're gone."

Samui bowed politely. "I'm sure you understand you're always welcome to come back, right?"

Yuuki rubbed her head. "Sheesh, you two are weirding me out. I'll be back around all the time, don't worry about it."

Darui turned to Lili. "Be careful out there. It's been two years now. You know what that means."

Lili stuck a hand up, leaving. "obviously. We've been talking about it all week. Love you, bye."

Yuuki shook her head as she followed. "Some attitude you've got now. What happened to respecting your elders?"

She closed the door behind her. "I'm just tired of it. We're adults now. How stupid is it to be so over-protective like that?"

Yuuki walked over, poking her cheeks. "Oh? Is that why you're smiling right now?"

Lili grunted, swatting her away. "Cut it out, goof."

"HEEEEEEY!" Yuuki and Lili covered their ears, peeking out to see Datsu. He'd become tall, around six-foot, one inch. To top it off, he was all muscle contained in a build that garnered a lot of female attention around the village.

His smiling wave was cut off by a stern punch upside the head. "Idiot! You're going to make us deaf like that!" Inora pulled her fist back as the group recovered.

Lili shook her head. "You're just as loud as he is when you're worked up, you know?"

The girl waved her off, pointing towards the village gates. "I can't believe how fast time has gone by. This might be the last time I see these walls for a while."

Datsu kept in stride with Yuuki, crossing his arms behind his head with a grin. "It's pretty amazing how great other ninja villages are compared to the Rivers." Datsu and the group waved to others as they wished them luck. "We've gotten pretty popular here, haven't we?"

Yuuki rolled her eyes. "It's just called being courteous. We've done a lot of missions to help out, after all."

Lili crossed her arms in thought. "He's got a pretty good point though. Our group has gathered a lot of attention from everyone. The lightning is very hospitable to their ninjas, especially the stronger ones. I think their hoping some of you return to stay."

Inora smirked. "Are you sure you're not just going to be lonely without us?" Lili blushed, moving ahead of the group.

Yuuki nudged her. "Hey, don't tease her too much. You know how she gets."

Inora chuckled. "Sounds like you're considering moving up here after all."

The green eyed girl swiftly looked around. "Oh hey, looks like Hitomi and Hotaru actually got here first."

As a whole, the group still dawned their lightning apparel. Hitomi looked around the group with a smile. "I gotta say, you four really grew into yourselves. I never thought most of you would be eye-level with me." The Uchiha looked down to her left, smirking at Hotaru. "How does it feel to be the short one?"

Hotaru looked down. "You didn't have to bring up height in the first place." She clinched her fist with a few tears. "I haven't grown since I was fourteen!"

The group laughed before settling down. Hitomi stretched her arms. "Well, here's the situation: Hell's Phoenix has contacted Isami once more. Luna has guaranteed that no one will interfere with the coming tournament. She obviously couldn't speak for Guden's group, but I don't think he's prepared or willing to try something with all of us there."

Yuuki nodded her head, urging the group to continue on their way. "So, they're trying to make a big deal out of this or something?"

Hotaru tilted her head. "Makes sense. No Chunin exam was as well received as yours. I'd venture to say only the finale of Isami vs. Hitomi garnered as much attention." The girl covered her mouth at the mention of his name.

Hitomi lifted her hand with a feint smile. "It's ok. I'll get to see him in no time. I hope he hasn't gotten out of hand again." She put her finger on her mouth. "I wonder if he's changed at all?"

Yuuki waved her hand. "Don't worry about him. He'll do what he wants, but he's got SOME rules he gives himself. I'm just wondering if they've become even stronger."

Lili put her hands on her hips. "They better have. I didn't get a chance to fight in the last tournament, so they better not bore me."

Inora rubbed the back of her head. "Even if you say that, we've been on so many missions lately that practice has become a back-burner project."

Datsu pumped his fist. "That's right! What I wouldn't give to go all out in training once more!"

Hitomi rolled her eyes. "Welcome to the world of a Jonin."

Yuuki grimaced. "Ever since the new 'High Jonin' rank, things have been even worse." Hitomi and Yuuki exchanged tales once more as Datsu and Lili deflated.

Inora poked her head over. "What'd you two expect? They've got such monstrous potential that we'd have to have twenty-four more hours a day to match up."

Datsu pumped his fist once more. "Even if you say that, I refuse to lose to anyone in the coming fights!"

Lili shifted her eyes around. "Uh, say…Is Isami going to fight to?"

Hitomi looked back with a confused look. "Huh? Of course he is. People are really looking forward to it."

Lili and Datsu deflated once more. Hotaru tapped her chin. "Might as well let the Kage participate in it."

Before they knew it, they had already gotten to the border of the Land of Lightning. Yuuki pulled back, noticing three familiar people with her byakugan. "Hey, let's head over that way."

OoOo

"Hey, you three!" Ryoku jolted in shock, throwing up a hand to signal his group that it was ok. Yuuki and the group appeared alongside them in pace. "Long time no see, huh?"

Ryoku grinned wide. "Wow, all of you look so different. It's always a pleasure! Where are you all headed?"

She pointed down the same direction they were traveling. "There's a pretty grand tournament going on down south. Lot of good fighters are going to be there. You should come if you aren't busy."

Yuuhi became unnerved. "You mean all of you are going to? That's where we're headed!"

Yuuki's eyes opened wide before grinning. "You all are still in Hell's Phoenix, right? How's that been?"

Kokuten piped up, still annoyed sounding. "It's fine. Just a lot of missions and training." He narrowed his eyes. "I've heard around that you guys have been doing some high level missions recently. What are your ranks?"

Yuuki looked around the group before looking back. "We're all Jonin, but Hitomi and I are High Jonin. Some formality title or something. If you ask me, it's just an excuse to drop more work on us."

The group's eyes grew wider. "Y-you don't say?" Ryoku scratched his head nervously. He sheepishly looked over to her. "You don't mind if we tag along to the tournament, do you Akiko?"

Yuuki looked over her group once more before giving a thumbs up. "Works for me. I'm actually named Yuuki by the way. By now, I'm sure the One for Words is losing his mind."

-Outside the Sand-

"Come on, hurry it up people!" Isami urged his group to move quicker. Takeshi, Tegun, and Nagi moved quicker to match his pace. Isami grinned, putting his thumb up. "Asumaru's group can't be allowed to get there before us!"

"So it's a race then? That fires me all up!" Tegun pushed his pace even faster, making everyone else catch up.

Nagi sweat nervously. "But, there's no way they would beat us there. We're the four fastest of the group that went to Suna.

Takeshi smirked. "Isami is only like this because he wants to see Yuuki and Hitomi again. I'm sure of it."

Takeshi had become tall, reaching almost six foot. Isami stayed around six foot two inches, but most of the guys in the group averaged at around five-foot ten inches. Takeshi's hair had maintained its short-cut style, which Tegun also went with, but Nagi had allowed his hair to grow out to his shoulders. Isami's big change was opting for a medium length that was around four inches at its longest.

Isami turned back. "I know you're all just as excited. But remember, a lot can change in two years."

Takeshi grinned. "You're right; Hitomi probably got fat, Shikamira's probably gotten up-tight and unapproachable, and I'm sure Lili's already in a pre-arranged marriage."

Tegun face-palmed. "Who even does per-arranged marriage anymore?"

The other men among him had shot a piercing stare through the Uchiha, making him laugh nervously. Nagi smirked himself. "Maybe. Maybe Yuuki's become a bombshell and gotten in with the wrong crowd."

Takeshi's face straightened as Isami laughed. "That would be classic!"

Takeshi grunted. "That's your sister, you know?"

OoOo

The other group ran in silence. Nezero looked around, seeing intense focus on everyone's face. The red-head rubbed his hair vigorously. "You guys are so boring!" This yielded no response from them, making the boy give up in defeat.

-Konoha Apartments-

Shikamira tapped her fingers as she finished cooking breakfast. Knowing that there was no sign of life, she finally gave up and made her rounds. She slammed the door open. "Tsumi, Kobi! When are you planning on waking up? You know today is more important than the others!"

Tsumi rolled over as Kobi covered his eyes. "Come on, don't be like that. It's not like we're going to be late or anything…" His nose twitched slightly. "Those eggs smell over-medium..."

Tsumi groaned, getting out of bed with only her underwear on. "Alright already, I'm up."

Shikamira blushed slightly, watching them lackadaisically getting there stuff around. "You two have no shame, huh?"

Tsumi looked over to her with a confused look. "Aren't you the one watching? You're always the one watching."

Shikamira said nothing, closing the door. Those two…She moved on to Kochi's room with a sigh. She knocked as she opened the door. "Hey, get some food." She stopped, seeing both Kochi and Nia buck naked after a shower.

Nia covered herself up. "You're supposed to knock and then enter! It's not even what it looks like!"

Shikamira scratched her head. "I forgot you were in town. Either of you want toast?"

Kochi raised her hand. "I'll take two slices." She rubbed her chin. "You know, Kobi really is a stickler about eggs being over-easy."

Shikamira sighed. "He'll get over it. Get dressed already." She closed the door.

Nia turned to her. "She really should have reacted more than that. Why did she just carry on a conversation?"

Kochi rubbed her chin. "I guess she's just used to stuff like this by now. We're not really what I would call, 'model ninja' after all."

OoOo

Kobi picked at his eggs, examining them carefully. "That's odd..." He took a small bite, chewing with care. Afterward, he grinned. "Should have figured."

Shikamira lifted her head in pride. "It's not easy to make over-easy eggs smell over-medium. Not that there's a significant scent difference or anything. It took me a lot of research to find the proper method."

Tsumi rubbed her head. "Isn't it a little unnecessary of a joke? How much effort did you put in that?"

Shikamira began drinking her orange juice. "Don't underestimate my ability. I AM a Jonin, after all."

Kobi waved her off. "There you go again. You know, rank isn't all that important. It's about your internal confidence in my opinion."

Kochi snickered. "You two just put it off to keep your responsibilities down, didn't you?"

Tsumi laughed nervously. "Say what you will, but it's given us more time for training."

Nia finished her small portion, crossing her arms. "Which is it? Training or going out all the time? I've heard how you operate."

Kobi shrugged his shoulders. "You make it sound shady. It's not as if you three don't come here on your days off anyways. Isn't it more effort to come here all the time just to hang out?"

Kochi laughed hesitantly. "You make it sound like they're the ones doing shady things."

Tsumi rubbed her chin. "I feel bad having Karui and Zente rent a hotel for the nights they visit though..."

Kobi finished his food with a satisfied expression. "It can't be helped. I mean, unless Shikamira gave up her tiny room for them to crash." Kobi scratched his cheek. "Maybe we oughta look into bigger housing. We could totally make a bed and breakfast business at this rate."

Shikamira crossed her arms, talking quietly. "I like my tiny room." Her volume returned to normal, with a hint of annoyance. "And just who do you think is going to do the 'breakfast' portion of that?" Shikamira sighed, shaking her thoughts as the others laughed. She tapped her fingers. "So anyways, you two assume you'll be made Jonin after this tournament?"

Kobi looked at her confused. "Well...yeah. Why wouldn't we?"

Tsumi grunted, leaning back. "Dad's been harassing me for a while now. I know he's just looking for an excuse."

Nia lifted an eyebrow. "Do you honestly think you two are ready for it? I haven't seen what you can do."

Kochi nodded her head. "I don't think any of us have." She now tilted her head. "Just what have you been up to? Were you really been training on your days off?"

Tsumi winked with a smirk. "Maybe, maybe not. You'll just have to wait and see."

Shikamira rubbed her chin, looking between the two. They...don't seem to bebluffing. The woman smirked, looking out the window. "I wonder how strong she's become."

Tsumi smiled brightly. "If I know her, she's in a different league."

Nia shook her head. "I don't know the details either, but only four people, including me, have been promoted to High Jonin...and she's one of them."

Kobi rubbed his nose. "Well, at least this will be worth our time then."

Shikamira pulled back once more. What have they been doing all this time to be so confident?

Nia looked around. "By the way, where's Ripper?"

Kobi snickered. "Ripper does his own thing. He's not much of a combat dog, but hell if he's not the best tracker out there..."

Kochi laughed. "Ripper's always busy on scouting missions. He's technically his own Jonin. He almost makes me regret not having a ninja dog of my own!"

Nia's eyes widened. "You let your own dog beat you to Jonin?"

Tsumi answered for him. "Ripper is really smart. He practically operates like he's his own man."

Kobi clinched his fist with a grin. "Every time he stops by for a visit, he's got a great story to tell! I'm proud of my old partner."

Nia looked away with a smile. "I guess I never really considered how independent a dog can be." Her eyes drifted to the clock, panicking at the time. "We're twenty minutes late! How could I be so careless?"

The rest of the group shrugged. Kobi waved her off. "I'm sure Zente and Karui are fine. Don't worry so much."

-Konoha gates-

Zente leaned against a nearby tree as Karui scanned vigorously. "Jeez. Even though we got here fifteen minutes late, they're late again."

Zente sighed deeply. "Nothing new. Cut em' some slack. It's harder for five people to get ready than two."

Karui popped up in his face, poking his chest. Zente startled slightly. "I've been waiting for a tournament like this! Even if I lose in the first round, there are rumored to be a ton of strong fighters!"

Zente smirked, looking away. "Even as far as we've gotten, I doubt we'll be able to keep up with Nia and Kochi. Those two have really stepped up their game."

Karui puffed her cheeks. "Party pooper." Zente looked to her now. He lifted his hands, pressing the air out of her cheeks. The noise made him laugh. Karui clenched her hands in annoyance. "Hey! I'm trying to get ready to make them feel bad for being late!" The girl grabbed at him, making them laugh as either one struggled to get an advantage.

"Ehem!" The two froze, seeing Nia and the group. The woman tapped her foot. "Play around on your own time. We're going to be late at this rate." They began to walk away.

Zente and Karui looked at each other blankly. They swiftly pointed and shouted in unison. "That's our line!"

OoOo

Akano prepped himself a final time before turning to his group. "Are we all set?"

Shitto lifted his hand non-chalantly. "Sure. I'm eager to see how far the others have come."

Chojiko clinched his fist with a stern head nod. "We may not have had shadow clones or fancy training methods, but I'm sure we can compete!"

Kaito lifted his two swords, fastening them on his back. "You've all come a long way. Whatever happens, I'm sure they'll be surprised."

Akano closed his eyes with a smirk, but eventually covered his face. "But I've only just made it to Tokubetsu...everyone else is still Chunin!"

They're heads sank slightly. Shitto put a hand on his shoulder. "We're better off than we were two years ago. All we can do is show them what we're made of."

Kaito nodded. "They might be surprised. Besides, moving up is harder in a smaller village like this."

Chojiko pumped his fist. "No matter what, I'm not going down in the first round this time!"

Akano looked over his group with a smirk. "Let's not jynx anything now." He pointed his fist out to the south. "Tournament bound, let's move. Remember, we're close to that date." Just wait, Datsu. I'll show you what a river ninja trained on home turf can do!

-Konoha-

Hinata hugged in close to Naruto, watching her daughter take off. "They've grown so fast."

Naruto smirked, putting his arm around her. "I'm just glad these two years have passed without issues. We've had to worry a lot, with our children leaving the house all at once." He gave her a soft kiss on her forehead, still watching in the distance. "Don't worry over it too much. Sasuke and I are going to watch over them with shadow clones."

Kiba appeared from the distance, along with Shikamaru. "Perimeter's clear. Did they take off already?" Kiba put his hand to his face to mask the sun. "They've gotten pretty strong, haven't they?"

Shikamaru nodded his head. "They're going to be in there prime soon. I'm itching to see how the fights unfold."

Kiba put his hands behind his head. "I hope they can get passed the first round at least. My family has never been very successful in tournaments."

Shikamaru smirked. "I can't speak for everyone, but I have a hunch Kobi and Tsumi will do well."

Kiba tilted his head with a confused look. "What, you mean the two that haven't made Jonin yet? If they didn't bother to go through with that, what makes you think they'll go far?"

Naruto shook his head. "You might not know, but Kobi and Tsumi have been actively using Isami's library and training area. Shikamaru has seen them a lot." Naruto tilted his head. "Don't you ever ask about what he's doing?"

Kiba laughed nervously. "That's not really my style. Kobi and Kochi are more interested in having a good meal and a great story. They dodge the questions when I ask how training is going."

Sasuke showed up, planting a foot against a nearby wall. "Not just that, but..." He closed his eyes with a smirk. "Never mind. You'll have to wait and see it for yourself."

Hinata chuckled. "At least we've got a way to cheer from the background now. It'll be great to see the replays soon after the fights conclude!"

Naruto crossed his arms. "That doesn't mean anyone can slack off now. We have to remain vigilant."

Kiba waved him off. "You're just confident Isami's going to win it all, aren't you?"

Naruto laughed, rubbing his nose. "If I know Isami, he's probably just going to drop out."

Sasuke shook his head with an annoyed face. "That's exactly something he would do..."

The group of parents let out a fair bit of laughter before heading back to the village.

-Reunion in the Sun-

Takeshi and Tegun kicked back, propping their feet up on the resort beach. Tegun leaned over with a smirk. "This is the kind of sand I'd rather see, eh?"

The Uchiha rested peacefully. "No kidding. Suna was great and all, but you can't beat this."

Isami tapped his fingers, sipping a drink. "Still, to think we'd be the first to arrive. Nia and Tsumi should have beaten us here..."

Nagi pointed over his shoulder. "Don't get too upset, Nezero is coming."

"Yoooo! How could we lose!" Nezero paced around, looking between the four. He crossed his arms, tapping his foot. "We need a rematch!"

Takeshi rubbed his head. "Nezero, you know your slower than all of us. Why even bother?"

Vin looked around, seeing flowing waves and a beautiful beach. "Hmm..."

Kankiri wrapped an arm around him. "Pretty."

Asumaru sat next to Isami, grabbing a drink himself. "You guys slowed down a bit, didn't you?"

Isami smirked. "Come on now, what's the point in me getting here first and drinking too much?" He jolted, looking over to Takeshi. "That's right, I keep forgetting you're old enough. Want one on me?"

Takeshi lifted his hand. "No thanks, man. We're still supposed to have a tournament at noon, you know?"

The rest agreed, making the two older ninja shrug. "More for us." Isami snickered at his thoughts. "It just would be priceless for Hitomi to see you stumbling around when she gets here."

Nagi focused intently. "Looks like it'll be another hour before Hitomi's group arrives."

Isami nodded, sticking his thumb up. "You've gotten much better at using the byakugan Nagi!" Isami checked himself, quickly relaxing. "We should be noticing Akano's group, Nia's group, and then Hitomi's group last."

Akano sweated, hearing the man. "Noticing us? We've been here since you started talking..."

Takeshi looked over to the guys, jumping up in response. "Ah, my bad!" He carefully looked over them. "You guys look great! I hardly recognize Chojiko!"

As Takeshi shook Akano's hand, Chojiko rubbed his nose. "I could say the same to you all. You all look great." He nodded his head. "And tan. Must have been baking in the sand."

Shitto rubbed his eyes. "They grew up so fast..."

Takeshi busted out a chuckle, looking back over them. "You've definitely improved your social skills to. I'm glad to see you've all been training your best."

Isami rubbed his head with a laugh. "Sorry I couldn't break off to help you all train, but I think you did well on your own."

Nagi nodded his head to them. "From the few months I spent with them, I could tell they'd become strong." Nagi put a hand on Shitto and Chojiko's shoulders. "Sorry I had to leave with these guys, but I needed someone to help my combat style that knew the byakugan."

Kaito sat down with a large drink, unfastening his blades. "We're all fully capable in our own right. Win or lose, the battles should be far better this time around." The samurai began drinking a healthy amount.

Takeshi felt sweat run down his back. "I guess we're not all going to be sober for the first round, huh?"

Akano waved his hand. "Don't mind him. He seems to fight better when he's been drinking anyways."

Takeshi rubbed his head. "Better, huh? You don't say..." The Uchiha laughed nervously.

oOoOo

The conversations flew between the group as Isami and Takeshi sat around patiently. Isami rubbed his nose. "I gotta say, you've all really exceeded my expectations."

Takeshi shrugged his shoulders. "You know, you did help us all. I'm not sure it'll be so easy for any of the other groups to win."

Isami laughed loudly, rubbing tears away. Takeshi turned to him annoyed. "Yeah...right." Isami turned to him with a smirk. "Don't get too confident there, hotshot. And remember, sometimes it's better to concede than feel the pressure to prove yourself."

Takeshi crossed his arms, closing his eyes. "Yeah, I should have known. Yuuki and Tsumi aren't people I should expect to have slacked off."

Takeshi felt his head get knocked forward, making him shoot a mean look to the subject. Kobi stood tall with a smirk. "Come on now, sometimes cutting yourself some slack is a good thing."

Takeshi's jaw dropped seeing Kobi's look. His eyes drifted over Tsumi and Shikamira, who looked fantastic. "W-Woah, you three look totally different!" Takeshi jumped up, pounding his old friends fist. "Damn, I'd almost have assumed there was a photo shoot going on!"

Kobi laughed as Tsumi approached. She handed him a drink as he wrapped an arm around her. "Easy there, I'm straight. This girl's the best thing that ever happened to me."

Takeshi looked over them carefully, pointing with his jaw agape. "You two actually hooked up?"

Tsumi narrowed an eye. "Why so surprised?"

Takeshi's eyes scanned around, seeing Nia and Kochi chatting solo around the beach and noticing Zente and Karui chatting with a smile to Akano. The Uchiha rubbed his head. "Man, I guess you've all been...busy." He paused, watching Shikamira walk over to Asumaru with two drinks in her hand. Takeshi pointed in confusion. "Uhh..."

Kobi waved him off with a laugh, regaining his attention. "Don't worry, everyone's been busy. Tell you what, I don't think there's another person out there that can beat Shikamira in a battle of wits anymore."

Takeshi grinned, happy to see his friends so chipper. He looked back to the two. "So, who all made it to Jonin?"

Kobi waved him off yet again. "Come on, rank doesn't matter." Takeshi pulled back slightly as Kobi pointed. "Shikamira and the others bothered to move up, but Tsumi and I stayed back as Chunin." He winked at Takeshi's shock. "That gave us more time to train and help out in the village."

The Uchiha bit his thumb. "Damn. You're confidence is something else now." Takeshi smirked once more. "You'll need more than that to win here though! I'm certain I can take any Jonin and under."

Kobi patted him on the shoulder with a grin. "Well, I suppose we'll find out soon enough, man."

OoOo

Asumaru busted out laughing, getting others' attention. "Over-easy eggs with an over-medium smell. Priceless."

Shikamira grinned, getting near the end of her drink. "It's been pretty quiet along your front lately, hasn't it?" Asumaru rubbed his head.

Nagi interrupted, sitting at the table while observing the woman. Damn, she's lost that intensely abrasive aura. The Hyuuga cleared his throat. "After the Savage incident, we've been in some tense border disputes and been in conflict with rouge members." He waved it off. "They were nothing special though."

Shikamira leaned in with a smirk. "Oh? You've let your hair grow out a little more. You look nice."

Nagi blushed, rubbing his head. "R-right, you look great to. I really almost didn't recognize you."

Asumaru sighed. "Kochi rubbed off on your group, didn't she?"

Shikamira finished her drink with a grin. "Maybe a little, but that's to be expected among roommates, right?"

Asumaru sighed heavier, hearing the word 'roommate'. "Don't bother telling me all the details."

Nagi frantically looked between the two. Shikamira crossed her arms. "It's not like I've been going crazy or anything. I've got a small room and that's all I need."

Asumaru rubbed his head. "But it's free to live with our parents. Not to mention, it's a lot more peaceful." He judged her expression before looking up to the clouds. "Never mind. It's not like it's my business."

Nagi looked back to Shikamira, who looked out over the beach. He smiled, sitting back. "This is a hell of a place to hold a tournament. I wonder who will win?"

Shikamira shrugged, leaning against the table. "It doesn't matter in the end. We've all really improved. This is going to be likened to a 'proof of power' kind of deal anyways."

Nagi pulled back before sighing in relaxation. "So you are the same, huh?" He looked out to the rolling waves. "Honestly, I'm looking forward to seeing what everyone can do, but I have a completely different vibe than I did at the Chunin exams."

Shikamira looked over to him with a smirk. "Good to hear. I can tell just from looking that it'll be hard to win any fight. Everyone has come a long way." Nagi smirked with her. Asumaru rubbed his head, taking his leave.

-Outside of the resort-

Yuuki rubbed her head. "Looks like we're the last to arrive."

Ryoku panted, stretching his legs. "How do you know that your group is over there?"

Hitomi pointed in a lethargic expression. "That banner reads 'Super secret awesome group reunion.' There's only one idiot who would call it something like that."

Kokuten waved his hand. "Well, we're going to check out the area. I'm sure you have a lot of catching up to do."

Yuuhi gave them a salute. "I look forward to seeing everyone's skills!"

Hitomi waved them off, sweating at the man that stood nearby. He muttered to himself in thought. She nudged Hotaru.

The woman walked over and leaned against his shoulder. "Trying to figure out how to approach the group safely?"

Hoshido closed his eyes, rubbing his head. "Not quite. I've been waiting for you guys, trying to think of what to say." The man blushed, looking away. "I've missed you, Hotaru."

The woman pulled back with a blush. "My, you've gone through a bit of a change, haven't you? Not fumbling over doomsday scenarios and caring about family..."

The lightning nin rubbed his chin in thought. "I wonder..."

Meanwhile, Yuuki and Lili watched as Hitomi ambushed Isami with an aggressive hug. Inora nudged Datsu, pointing towards Akano's group. "How about we check up on them first?"

Datsu pushed her forehead with a smirk. "Way ahead of you!"

As Yuuki stepped into the area, silence swept over and eyes turned. Yuuki leaned over to Lili. "They don't realize how awkward that makes me feel."

Lili rolled her eyes, whispering back. "Say something, obviously."

Yuuki sighed, putting on a grin. "Sorry we're late! We picked a few hitchhikers on the way."

Her response garnered a few snickers and eventually everyone returned to their conversations. Takeshi stared from the table he sat at with Kobi and Tsumi. Tsumi's face beamed up. "Would you get a look at her! Taller, fairer skin, and she's well put together."

Takeshi signaled her to keep it down. "Come on now, she's probably getting enough attention."

Kobi held a glint of a smile, letting out a sharp whistle. Most everyone's head turned. "Oi, Yuuki! We've got a few seats over here!"

Tegun stood, walking to the side. "Sorry guys, I'm going to see if I can't chat privately."

Lili saw Tegun and blushed. She grabbed Yuuki's arm. "What should I do? Tegun is walking away. What if he wants me? I can't deal with that!"

Yuuki looked to her with an annoyed face. "Go talk to him, obviously." She turned back, waving to the group. "Aren't you three a sight for sore eyes!" Yuuki took off, leaving Lili to make her own decision.

-Team Seven-

Yuuki sat back and relaxed. "Ugh, I feel like it's been forever since I just sat back." She looked back over to her sister and Kobi. "I never thought I'd say it, but you two look like an amazing couple."

Kobi waved her off, wrapping his hand around Tsumi. "Enough about us already. You made High Jonin I've heard!"

Yuuki shrugged her arms aside. "It's not like I was trying, or even willing. Darui-san just insisted it be so."

Takeshi crossed his arms. "First name basis with the Raikage, huh?"

Yuuki grinned, looking back over Takeshi's features. "You've grown into quite the man yourself, huh?" She looked around before leaning in. "Did you meet any good girls?"

Takeshi grimaced, looking down. "No one my type." He laughed nervously. "Honestly, I'm pretty hopeless as far as that's concerned."

Kobi punched him in the arm. "Talk like that and you'll start pushing the women away!" Kobi looked back to her. "And you? Any one catch your eye?"

Yuuki blushed faintly, shifting her eyes slightly. "Well, maybe a little, but that's not important. We've got too much to worry about. Everyone's been really busy."

Tsumi shook her head, pointing her thumb down. "Boring! You're both boring!"

Yuuki took a second look, seeing a few empty drinks on the table. "Wow, you're drinking before the fight?"

Kobi winked, rubbing his head. "Busted. Don't worry, this is nothing to us."

Yuuki crossed her arms, looking at Tsumi. "And how would you know that, huh Tsumi? You've been drinking for a while, haven't you?"

Tsumi looked away sheepishly. "Well...We might have started dabbing into it a few days after you left." Takeshi pulled back and Yuuki shook her head.

"You'll end up like dad at that rate." Yuuki tapped her finger. "Honestly, you know how I felt about that." Tsumi lowered her head, laughing quietly. Lili and Tegun rejoined the group with a happier demeanor. Lili slid her a drink, which Yuuki accepted. "But that was then. I might even try to catch up with you at this rate."

Takeshi and Tsumi's jaws dropped. Tsumi recovered. "How unexpected. I thought you'd be a stiff like Takeshi."

Kobi laughed, seeing his friends helpless expression. "Hey, you might as well join the club. One drink's not gonna kill you."

Takeshi sighed. "I guess it can't be helped." He crossed his arms with a stern face. "But seriously, we are having a high-level, serious tournament, you know? There's probably a lot of profitability and show of force potential here."

Yuuki shoved the rest of her drink into his mouth. "Everyone's aware of that!"

The Uchiha coughed slightly, making the group laugh. Takeshi took some time to sulk. Why does no one seem to like my straight-forward, honest traits?

OoOo

Inora clapped her hands in excitement. "Oh. My. God. Chojiko, you look like a respectable man now! I'm so happy for you!"

The said person laughed nervously. "It wasn't easy to kick my eating habits, but now I don't even look back on it." He smiled confidently. "Once I ate healthy, I had a lot more energy and stamina to train harder than ever!"

Inora nodded enthusiastically. "See? See? I told you."

Chojiko looked over her shoulder, noticing Datsu laughing with his old friends. He leaned in. "So, are you two dating?"

Inora pulled back, looking between the two before laughing. "What, with that buffoon? Not a chance. I'm still single. I was serious, he's like a second, annoying sibling."

Chojiko tilted his head. "So, you two really did form something like the bond we have, huh?"

Inora reached out, rubbing his head. "Don't worry, you're still my only real brother." She pulled back, crossing her arms. "I swear, if it weren't for Datsu scaring off every guy I met, I would have had something special by now." She jolted, looking back over the group before leaning in. "He has a thing for Yuuki I've heard. Could you imagine?"

Chojiko laughed shaking his head. "Sis, you haven't changed at all. It's really refreshing actually."

OoOo

Datsu sat back with Kaito and Akano. "Seriously though, I can see your strength with one look! Trust me, they'll end up making you Jonin soon enough."

Akano smiled with his words. "You've become a bit more tolerable, huh?" Datsu laughed, taking another drink. Akano shook his head. "Just looking around, I can tell I won't get to the finals. However, I'm pretty proud of everyone's efforts." Akano shifted his eyes to Datsu. "I'm really hoping the two of us get to fight."

Kaito put his drink down with a slightly off-putting laugh. "I'd pay to see that. I can tell just from looking Datsu would win."

Datsu waved him off. "Either way, we're all going to have a spar, alright? I can't wait to see what you guys can do."

Akano bowed his head with a chuckle. "I already know you'd win, but that makes me more eager to fight. I am a river ninja after all."

"heh." Datsu rubbed his nose, somewhat lost in thought.

-Afternoon-

Isami glanced over in shock, seeing his father, Sasuke, Konohamaru, and Kiba. He jumped up, running over. "Hey, long time no see, pops!"

Naruto looked over Isami and the group, baffled by how much they'd changed. Naruto rubbed his head. "Wish we could all be here for real. You've done an excellent job, my son!"

Isami snickered. "Are we going to determine the first round order or something?"

Kiba shook his head, giving a wink. "Shikamaru and Shikamira have been busy adjusting their stat cards. This time, no one's going to know how they stack up until they're defeated. It's great, I don't have any responsibility this time around!"

Sasuke smirked, seeing Takeshi and Hitomi enjoying themselves. "To think that Uchihas and Uzumakis aren't the only powerful ones now..." The man shook his head. "Let's gather this group up. We'll deal with the stragglers in person."

Konohamaru couldn't help but smile, looking over his old team. "They're all grown up now. I guess I shouldn't be surprised." Konohamaru looked around. "Hmm...I guess she's still getting ready."

-Tournament Area-

Yuuki looked over the terrace down into the arena. "This is a good size coliseum, huh? It's way more than I expected." She glanced around once more. "We're close from this angle, but the stands sure carry."

Isami nodded, leaning over the railing himself. "We haven't had a chance to talk" He carried himself as though he was feeling guilt. "...about your appearance..."

Yuuki focused her gaze forward, flicking his forehead with her right hand. "How many times do I have to tell you to get over it? I'm fine; couldn't be better." Yuuki turned, giving him a grin. "You really didn't change much at all, did you? Just shorter hair, huh?"

Isami grinned back, pushing himself off the railing. "Yeah. Honestly, you and Tsumi really blossomed. Even though you're so much like Dad and Lili, there's no denying you two have mom's genes."

Yuuki blushed, looking up to the sky. "That's a relief to hear honestly." Yuuki closed her eyes in thought.

Isami rubbed his chin. "I wonder...some fighters have yet to reveal themselves."

Yuuki spun around, leaning against the post. This was a good time to talk business, since no one was in the area. "This is a big deal. Who's monitoring the area while this tournament is going on?"

Isami crossed his arms. "Well, you might not like the answer. I pulled in a favor from Luna, since there are also members of Hell's Phoenix here. She's in the area, along with a few others."

Yuuki focused on his lax demeanor. "I've heard all the details of what happened between you two. That being said, it'd be a pain for them to start something with us and know how all of us operate."

Isami closed his eyes, understanding her concern. "They've agreed to the condition of not being allowed to watch or analyze our fights. Only the accounts of Ryoku's group are what they'll have to go by."

Yuuki sighed, nodding her head. "Alright. I'm not too concerned about them anymore anyways." She bit her thumb. "There's only three mystery people left for the tournament."

Isami scratched his head. "Two of them are from Konoha, but the third declined to state where he was from."

Yuuki stared to the floor in thought. "Once we figure them out, I'll be keeping an eye on them."

Isami waved his hands to the side. "I knew you would, but don't forget to relax a bit, alright? It's not likely they will pose any kind of real threat."

Yuuki nodded with a smile. "You're right. Let's get back. They're probably going to decide the first match soon."

-Tournament hall-

Naruto grabbed everyone's attention. "Alright everyone, settle down." A quick silence swept in. He cleared his throat. "As you're aware, there are three others that aren't ready yet, so hopefully we'll be able to buy them some time with this." Shikamaru grabbed a small device tapping a few times to get a rapid flashing pair of random names. Takeshi and Hitomi squinted, making the Nara smirk. Naruto continued. "Don't bother trying to read the names. Their scrambled...or something." He turned to Shikamaru, who nodded.

As he pressed the button, a pair of names came up. Shikamaru read them out. "Looks like our first fight will be Nara Asumaru VS. Zente." The two men looked between each other with marginal words to share. Shikamaru continued. "After this fight, all combatants will be required to respond to the next match within one minute. You'll all be given a number to remember, that is irrelevant to rank or skill. When your number appears, just get to the center." He sighed, rubbing his head. "Obviously, this only applies to the first round. You're allowed to share your number, but there's no fun in that."

Naruto looked over the group. "Any questions?"

Shikamira shook her head, lifting her hand to her forehead. "It's already a scrambled name selecting system. Why not just have it show the person's name? It's more relatable to the crowd that way and eliminates the potential for number sharing."

The chatter agreed as Naruto shrugged at Shikamaru. The Nara let out a sweat as he responded. "I guess that simplifies things more." Damn. I was over-complicating things again. He cleared his throat. "Regardless, if your name shows, you must respond in one minute."

The room remained silent, making Naruto nod in excitement. "Alright everyone, do your best and have fun. You're all wiser now. If you know you can't win, don't feel bad about forfeiting or surrendering." He raised his hand. "We're going to start in one hour! Good luck!"

-End-

-A/N-

Yup...I'm kicking this puppy off with a tournament. I want to establish an idea of what everyone can do because I like people being able to speculate how certain events might go. If there are things I critically missed, please, let me know! I am active in editing and revising my work, so long as it doesn't take away from what I wrote. (You know, grammar and such.)

I'm moving the schedule to every Friday (Early AM for Eastern Time Zone). Thank you for reading!