Pseudo Styles V-II: A Naruto Fanfiction

by Alpha Vii

[On hold for development's sake] Slow burn. Mass bash/anti-bash story. Dark COP. The world of shinobi. Deception is their way of life, although many have come to forgive that attribute. When the greatest atrocity is in your own backyard however... The swarm does not forgive secrets. Can trust be earned before it is too late?

1. Chap 1: New Beginnings & Ice Breakers

Pseudo Styles V-II: A Naruto Fanfiction: Chapter 1: New Beginnings and Ice Breakers: Part's 1-3

Please keep all credentials within the wallet at all times for the duration of this fic. If it hasn't become clear from the previous generation AND the fanfics you've already read here's the disclaimer: "I hold no relation to the original content of the Naruto series. The OC's present are based on the fundamentals of poetic and philosophical perspectives so as much as the are SI's they are NOT original and will use techniques inspired and derived from alternative sources. In reality I do NOT own this account. That right goes to the moderators loaning me a spot in the internet. As such the content below is NOT protected by property rights and can be shut down if it infringes on that. Please do NOT sponsor any content present in this or any of 's stories."

Alpha looks at the screen hesitantly, "Man this feels like holding a fresh baby. Every move I make affects the future of this story." Cracks knuckles, "Well, let's make sure we don't use any factory defaults on this one!"

In this generation of Pseudo Styles, the approach will be significantly slower and character development is our main goal. While all efforts will be made to ensure 'fillers' serve a clear purpose I'm afraid feedback is the only way to ensure such issues are resolved quickly. I will attempt to accommodate everyone I can, but that still leaves some people disinterested. This story will be the Yang half of the T-rated generations. It will seem much darker but the values regarding killing and abandonment will still be in effect for this story. There will be no death in this story so if you're looking for an angst fanfic with a gore factor than you're probably not going to be satisfied here. If the C.O.P. appears it will be a similar setup to root where stealth and secrecy are among the primary objectives.

Alpha rolls his shoulders, "Alright enough procrastinating! Time to write!" Cracks knuckles (Two hours later mind you.).

E.N: "Excuse me, what about the elephant in the room?"

Alpha groans, "AH! Why would you do that to me?! Fine. Do to popular perspective the method of organization has changed. Now the 'Volume:Chapter' setup has been reduced to a 'Chapter:Part' alternative. I'm still compartmentalizing progression but at this point the progression will be a lot denser. Also I'm weighing the value of naming the chapters in the 'quick menu' but that poses a lot of counter issues that could occur. I'll give it a shot but if it tanks the efficiency I'm withdrawing the method until further improvements have been made." Alpha departs to retrieve lunch… …Alpha returns, "Why I denied myself calzones for so many years is a dark mystery."

===Chapter 1===

—Prologue: Denial of Damnation—

Once again the Vii's arrive on the Day of the Kyubi, however this time their destination was not the sealing site.

The rift appeared in the crown of a large tree near the front lines where the Shinobi were attempting to stall the beast. Phantom, Enigma and Ambiance forged through the portal.

Enigma quickly noticed their heading, "You're crazy if you think we can beat the nine tails without drawing attention to ourselves!"

Ambiance sighed, "Well it's a good thing there's a plan B. It'll take some doing but we're gonna wake the fox up."

Phantom cocked an eyebrow, "Do you even know how to do that?"

Ambiance shrugged, "Well we all know one way. The objective here is making it enough to affect a biju."

Phantom went over a few things, "So this is the ulterior method?"

Ambiance shook her head, "That's gen 3. This is the yang method. C'mon, We've got work to do."

A.N: Alpha cringes, "Yeah, this first part may take a few revisions. I think I managed to sort out my priorities for this story. I'll be postponing the council bash/smashing till gen 3. It's kick ass but it's also incompatible with this one's objectives."

The three took off for the beast. While the Shinobi were busy the sight of three sets of glowing armor wasn't something that typically got past shinobi.

As the three passed the front line a jonin shouted, "You fools! This is no time to be a hero!"

Enigma sighed, "Yeah, we noticed!"

Ambiance looked at the towering beast and groaned, "Actually there's one other thing we can try. It borders insane, but can our yellow spirit channel nature chakra?"

Phantom frowned before countering, "You want a petrified fox?"

Enigma's eyes widened, "Actually he's been doing it this whole time to emulate chakra." Suddenly the boy paled, "EW! I hate needles!"

Ambiance sighed, "Suck it up! It's not like the delivery is any different from your swords!" Inwardly the notion still had her nervous.

Phantom produced on of his swords and coerced the spirit to incorporate nature chakra. His eyes widened when leaf-like veins entered the blade, "Well let's give this a shot." Phantom looked over the kyubi searching for something reminiscent of a barrier. He cocked his head and spoke, "That's not so much a shield as a buffer. It won't make these swords any less effective." To make his point Phantom sliced across the Kyubi's ankle. The attack had no issues but the man quickly realized an issue, "It's too little. We'll need to attack in unison."

Meanwhile the fox began to search for the source of the disruption. His tails sweeping in massive arcs and attempting to drive away distractions.

Enigma noticed a section of the front lines still in range, "Okay THAT'S annoying." He turned around and applied a burst of swift release to close the distance. He skidded in front of the Shinobi as a tail came soaring in, "Crystal style: Jade barricade!" The crystal rose up and barely managed to deflect the tail as it arrived. He released a breath that he began holding and called to the shinobi, "Get the wounded deeper in the forest and get what medics you have on them! I hear glory is the last thing you want right now, so kindly stop trying to die!"

One of the jonin from earlier stepped up, "Who the hell do you think you are that you can order us around?!"

Enigma rolled his eyes, "Or don't! Whatever!" Enigma turned and tapped his shoulder, "Are you two ready?"

The jonin made to grab the kid before Enigma nodded and vanished in a whirl of color.

—

Enigma appeared on the Kyubi upper back and winced, "Dang, this guy's chakra is not fond of us at all!"

Ambiance nodded, "On three…"

—

Hiruzen Sarutobi arrived one of the outpost structures outside the village as he prepared to summon Enma.

The Monkey appeared and asked, "How bad is it?"

Hiruzen had just turned to speak when the Kyubi gave off an agonized roar.

Enma noted the look on Sarutobi's face and asked, "You weren't expecting a reaction from it?"

Hiruzen shook his head, "Someone must have landed a decent hit on the fox. Regardless we need to prepare to…"

Again the fox drew their attention as he shouted, "ENOUGH!"

The two veterans spoke in unison, "What?!"

—

Enigma and Phantom flew to the ground as the fox made an effort to shake them off.

The beast shouted, "THE HELL DO YOU WANT FROM ME, PARASITES!"

Enigma's eyes widened before he shouted, "IT WORKED! FLUFFY'S BACK!"

The fox tensed at the term, "You…YOU ARROGANT LITTLE!"

Phantom shouted quickly, "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. You wont get this mercy from the village or the elemental nations as a whole. If your half the beast we've come to respect than you'll leave this place in peace! Instigate one more attack on a village of this world and we WILL hunt you down!"

The fox stood still as the words echoed, "A mortal. A mortal with an ounce of mercy? I'LL BE DAMNED BEFORE I TRUST HUMANS AGAIN!"

Enigma countered, "THAT WONT TAKE AS LONG AS YOU THINK!"

Ambiance sighed as she sat upon the Kyubi's head, "C'mon big fella. I'm not fond of captivity any more than any other creature. Give the village some space and I'll make you your own. No Uchiha. No Senju. No Uzumaki. Just you and the neighboring forest wildlife. I'll even keep it secret from my clanmates. We can't read a map to save our lives. Hell, I'll probably lose track of your location after a while. That said, we're not about to let some asshole dig you out any time soon. Can't promise you wont be found, but I'll make sure they can't manipulate you again as long as you're staying local."

The Fox kept a lock on the girls KI the entire time. He checked the other two, and despite their stances, they weren't looking to bring him down as much as…something he wasn't familiar with. They had intent with him, but not in a direct sense, "If i see one human follow, they will die without a second glance."

Enigma shrugged, "Well then, we'll just make sure no one goes suicidal then. As much damage as you've done, it runs both ways. Vii's aren't the type to go using the term 'evil' outside of poetic context. Animal cruelty is no lower on our list than harassment and its derivatives. Add to that your symbolism and we've got nothing to hold against you…yet. We're not a fan of bullies and irony is a favored countermeasure."

A.N: Alpha claps, "We're in business! It still needs some more cementing but this heading is a lot more solid! By the time you read this it's the second draft and the story line has been revised. Sorry if it's a lot longer…Nevermind I promised a slow buildup. This is FAR more appropriate than that slapstick from earlier. This is only the first part of the chapter, but I feel obligated to affirm that this fanfic is not going belly up any time soon." Alpha posts chapter… …Alpha returns, "Let's get this chapter finished!"

—

Sarutobi watched the Fox eyeing something in the forest. It appeared he was interested in some kind of unique prey but the voices that managed to carry told a different story.

Enma stepped closer and mumbled, "Did this happen before I got here? I've tried several times to dispel a genjutsu but this is beyond a jonin's capabilities. Wasn't this thing supposed to be ravaging the countryside when the first fought it?"

Sarutobi watched as the fox began to turn away from the leaf village. With the sound of mild thunder the beast retreated into the forest, "That's the story. But THAT'S the fox. Tracks, beaten 'path', tails, carnage. But…in a certain light…He looks like a normal animal."

Enma cocked an eyebrow, "I've seen my mother get pissed. Blow her up a few hundred feet and I'd probably be just, if not more, terrified." (*Face-slap* "That wasn't supposed to be a donkey kong reference at all. There was limited context regarding those two and Sarutobi probably doesn't see his daughter as THAT scary. Then again what do I know about parenting." Turns to C.V, "Don't answer that!") [There's knowing and then there's understanding] ("Well there goes my excuse!")

Sarutobi sighed, "This is going to set the council of fire. Not to mention Danzo will go ballistic at losing our jinchuriki."

Enma shrugged, "I'm going to inform the den. Someone might have some insight to this disaster."

—Part 2: Forest of the Kyubi—

The Kyubi and Ambiance had been scouting the land of fire as well as some of the surrounding borderlands for the past five days.

The fox gave off a huff as the trip dragged on, "Those blasted samurai. I can't believe they made themselves at home in MY den. That place was undisturbed for centuries and suddenly humans are fond of living in rocks again."

Ambiance rolled her eyes, "Tell me about it. The moment us humans notice an amount of untapped potential we head back to our 'Useless' and 'fruitless' history and claim the scraps. It pisses me off that the people who first learned these things through hard work, trial and error, and even instinct and intuition are neglected as eccentric or even insane, while centuries later someone with privileges picks up our 'trash' and decides they 'invented' something monumental. The wheel of elements for example. It has many variations. Essence. Dark and light. Heaven, Hell, Earth. Water, Fire, Earth, Air. It goes on and on, but because humans don't see everything, they claim that what they see is all there is. Ooh look a magic sword that cuts iron and doesn't warp! Later someone calls it steel and claims the right to it. Thing is, the universe is a big place and doesn't like stagnation. Let water sit for a few months and nature reclaims her property by making it a home or by removing it altogether." Suddenly She looked up at a particular sound, "Actually, speaking of water…"

The fox looked down and noticed a large amount of murky earth, "Nice try kid. I'm no toad. Something like this would just slow me down."

Ambiance shrugged, "Maybe. But what do humans do with clay?"

The fox chuckled, "You're an odd one. You looking for a new kiln?"

Ambiance shrugged, "Fuinjutsu isn't just for making prisons. Odds are the good places are already claimed or very close to human settlements. In the event I need to build something, I'd rather have something to work with." Ambiance leapt into the muddy earth and managed to land on a narrow layer of water. She unraveled a seal over her wrist before flowing through movements that contained traces of handsigns and physical moulding, "Earth style: MOBILE CORE." A large amount of clay formed a giant slimy brick in front of her. Ambiance tapped her arm against the large amount of raw material. The brick warped into the storage seal and Ambiance raveled it up before placing in a rather thin canister that looked like a case of test tubes. She replaced the scroll in the canister before sighing, "Well, that's two down."

The fox closed his eyes, "Pray tell; when did you pick up another?"

Ambiance smiled, "Well one of the elements I can make anywhere, but I'm working on a mixture of elements that will make a structure a lot tougher. Granted I don't suggest throwing a tantrum indoors. I know everyone has those issues occasionally, but some things have a certain degree of symbolism in the actions that created them."

Kyubi hesitated before asking, "Why would you do this for me?"

Ambiance sighed as she leapt onto his back, "Konoha has a habit of making morally ambiguous decisions. The politicians display an opinion and suddenly the world thinks either they can do no wrong or there is no right. The Kage may respect you for your power and influence, but for civilians it's WAY over their heads. As far as most of them know; A 'demon' fox is the thing knocking over trashcans at night. The kind of thing you chase away with a pointy stick and shout, (CUE OLD COOT VOICE) "Gert off me lawrn! Dern rodents!"

Kyubi smiled at that, "You wouldn't think so, but I know the feeling. Typically it's on the other front though."

Ambiance chuckled, "That's the rule of two. Every action behaves in two ways; an opposing force and a countering force. Typically a species only sees one of the two sides at a given time."

A.N: "To be modified at a later date."

The two continued for seven more days before the Kyubi finally vanished from the visible world, eager to resume the life of a hermit.

—Part 3: Enter the Vii clan—

Five years had passed and the village slowly normalized. Over the years Minato managed to add extra courses into the academy for unique arts such as Medical jutsu, Fuinjutsu, Elemental basics, Bukijutsu, and even two alternative styles for basic taijutsu. As a result the number of qualifiers went up to four, but the system allowed students to find alternative techniques, under the pretense that they could 'escape', 'infiltrate' and 'distract' well enough to be applicable to a realistic scenario.

Naruto meanwhile became a bit frustrated with the villages praise of the 'Son of the Hokage/Yellow flash/Red death/Rare clan'. His parents were accepting regarding his shinobi career but…In truth, their styles didn't fit him.

In meetings Councilors would ask about Naruto 'learning' the Hiraishin. They'd look at him like he was about to become a child celebrity. ('Last Loyal Uchiha' and 'Grandson of the Third' didn't leave much room for guesswork here. This isn't just an issue with Konoha and the Narutoverse either. This affects kids everywhere during multiple stages of development. It screwed me over before I knew how to spell my first name.) The blond turned to pranking rather quickly, but the effect was the exact opposite of what he needed it to. His pranks tended to endear people to him no matter how advanced or pathetic they were. Parents treated him like a showcase rather than a human.

Finally the day came when the Vii's entered the road to the village. To Phantom's irritation he ended up being the same age as the other two: Five years old. He had no issue with the physical downsides as his ingenuity managed to make up the difference. The issue was that…Kids are ALWAYS underestimated. You kick a civilians ass and they assume it was dumb luck. They make sure you lose the second time in hopes that you abandon the art of a loose cannon. Size is a huge advantage/disadvantage in combat. Children are tiny targets and against someone three times their size, the only blow is a low blow. They are walking fulcrums amongst a sea of perfectionist giants.

—Road before Leaf Village North gate—

Ambiance sighed as she looked over her packet, "This is gonna be a lot of improvisation. I've got the gist of how this is supposed to work, but it's kinda important that we're as flexible as possible. Granted I don't want to sound like a pushover, but joining a village is…tricky."

The group approached the village gate and drew the attention of Izumo and Kotetsu. The former groaned, "Umm, nice getups but this is as far as you're getting without an ID."

Phantom sighed, "Told you. Politics and economics. No matter your intent, if your not sponsored then they shut you down at the door. Looks like we'll need your tongue Enigma."

The two tensed at the phrase as one of the three walked forward.

Enigma rolled his eyes, "Dang Phantom, no need to sound creepy. Actually, shinobi-san, we are here to see if the leaf would be interested in forming a relationship with our clan. As a gesture of good will we were granted permission to bring you these." Enigma offered the packet to the gate guards.

Ambiance shouted, "Dummy! You're supposed to show it to them!"

Enigma groaned, "Gimme a break. I've never left the caravan before." He opened the flap and showed the contents to be metallic, "These are from the Vii Clan." Enigma reached into one of his pockets, "I'm supposed to ask if you could get this to the current Hokage. We're to come back in a few weeks to see if he has an answer." (Child dialect is a bit more challenging than simplifying grammar constraints. I'm currently using the latter to keep things clear.) Enigma Izumo the letter and the packet.

Kotetsu shook his head warily, "Not sure you'll have much luck if this is all you got. Clan affiliation hasn't been done in years and the compounds are mostly reserved."

Phantom scoffed, "Well it's a good think shelter is one of our lowest ranking issues." He handed the chunin his packet.

Ambiance sighed, "Phantom, you really need to work on your people skills. You need to be able to pass yourself as a nice person sometimes." Again Kotetsu received the packet.

The three kids bowed before heading into the trees and shooting off.

Izumo's eye twitched at the sight of children taking the 'tree top superhighway', "That's gonna haunt me for the next two weeks. Are they using chakra already?"

At the sound of an 'oof, stupid moss!' Kotetsu paled, "I think they're just jumping!"

—Hokage's office—

Minato had just finished the mornings dose of paperwork and was settling in for a cup of coffee and a novel. (Not all people are perverts during work hours.)

A knock on the door drew his attention, "Come in."

Izumo entered the office while scratching his head, "Morning Hokage-sama." (*Cringe* Not sure how to make this 'slightly' less formal without resorting to an equivalent of 'jiji' level formality.)

Minato smiled, "So how was gate duty?"

The chunin shrugged, "Boring as usual, but there was a moment of reprieve today. Some kids visited the gate with an interesting story. They didn't have any ID but they claimed to be part of a clan with an interest in the leaf. They weren't all that bothered that we had to turn them away, but they requested that these get to you." He brought out the packets and pulled out the letter.

Minato took them hesitantly, "You had them screened by an activator right?"

Izumo nodded, "Immediately. They actually revealed the contents briefly at the gate. Mostly metal objects, but other than a preliminary glance I didn't get much of a look."

Minato narrowed his eyes before one of the packets. His eyes widened, "Weaponry?" His eyes doubled in size, "No way." He pulled out a set of six sided shuriken with a decorative flame design burned into the metal.

Izumo's whistled, "Damn, that's not standard issue at all!"

Minato narrowed his eyes, "Not only that…" He poured chakra into the blade and the metal quickly began to spark with electricity, "This is worth more than a few civilian run weapon merchants typically keep in stock. Did they leave a smith's recommendation?"

Izumo tapped his chin as he thought over the interaction. His eyes narrowed before shooting open and a worried expression developed, "They actually described those packets as something their clan had been developing. You don't think…"

Minato chuckled, "Man, that's a trump card if I ever heard one. Those brats just got their foot in the door as long as these are in Konoha's possession. Did they happen to leave a name or correspondence?"

Izumo grumbled, "Well if I'd bothered to write it down this would have been easier. Hang on a sec…They mentioned they'd be back in two weeks to see if you had a response. For Kami's sake, their name was weird though. It was freakin short." He thought for a minute before a knock sounded from the door.

Minato sighed, "Hang on a minute…What is it?"

Kotetsu called in, "Is Izumo still with you?"

Minato sighed, "Your timing is impeccable. Please come in."

Kotetsu entered with a pair of takeout bags, "Did those gaki's cause an issue?"

Izumo scratched his head, "They definitely caused a stir."

Minato asked pointedly, "Do you remember the name those kids gave?"

Kotetsu nodded briefly, "Yeah. They kept mentioning a 'Vii' clan. The little brats had sheaths on their belts, some kind of armor beneath their cloths, and they were definitely related. Curly black hair and blue eyes. I'd think they were triplets. The loose boy was called out to speak for them and seemed rather open. The second boy was withheld and kinda technical in his assessments. The girl seemed to be the most social of the three, but she mostly scolded the second boy. I've never seen a clan that versatile though. They were like the polar opposite of the Hyuga."

Minato looked at the weapons, "Yet it seems their skills are very real, albeit unorthodox. I'd need to run it by the council, but this is bound to turn a number of heads. To the civilians this might as well be adamantium or mithril. Might not make as much sense to them but it will definitely inspire rumors."

—Council Chambers: 4 days later (*Fingers crossed* "Please work!")—

Minato entered the council chamber and noted the clan heads had already made themselves at home. The civilian council (Concerns the whole village) made their best efforts to appear attentive and involved.

As the Hokage sat down Asuma asked nervously, "This isn't another infiltration meeting is it?" A popular grunt went about the room.

Minato chuckled, "We have had a lot of those issues haven't we." He shook his head, "Fortunately todays subject was a lot less interested in forcing their way into our midst, so I think for now you're spared that inconvenience."

Danzo raised his eyebrows and narrowed his gaze (Tis a rare skill), "So then its a political maneuver."

Minato nodded, "A damn good one too." He pulled out some of the packets and passed them around, "Do me a favor and don't make me hunt these down later. About three days ago three kids stopped by and dropped these of with a letter requesting an opportunity to establish a relationship with the leaf. They have made themselves known as members of an unknown clan within the land of fire and are seeking a form of temporary alliance until their worth is evaluated by the village as a whole. Based on the letter they call themselves the Vii clan and pursue versatility as a sort of ongoing goal." Minato paused briefly as he noticed some of the clan heads already evaluating the items.

Shikaku narrowed his eyes at the unique glint of the metal, "Is this what I think it is?"

Inoichi pushed chakra into the metal and his eyes widened as the disk seemed to produce a thin barrier around the blades, "This is beyond the scope of any smithy I've ever used. Is this their own handiwork?"

Minato chuckled, "The general theme the Vii's presented in their letter is something they call a persisting dabble. According to the three who brought these, the metal was something the Vii clan was refining for the past four years as a communal interest. (has worked throughout history. It's something I WISH I had the idle resources to do.) What you're holding is one of the interests that panned out."

Danzo looked over the metal and growled, "Seem's like much more than a mere hobby. This borders obsession. This is not something a ninja can afford to use in or out of combat."

Hiashi scoffed, "This is clearly on par with an heirloom, but that there are enough of them to hand off to the leaf raises a question: What is their interest with the leaf? Selling these would tow in a small fortune without needing an affiliation. What exactly are they seeking here?"

Minato sighed, "You're not going to stomach this overnight, but they explicitly requested an opportunity to immerse in a community environment. They're seeking contact with residents of the village. Though they have requested an alliance, the clan seems interested in remaining somewhat independent in a similar method to the Uzumaki. From the letter alone they seek association and culture. To become a shinobi clan depends on our impression of them, but there's something else that they claim involvement in that raises some serious moral questions."

Danzo rubbed his brow through his bandages and asked, "Pray tell what religious BS are we dealing with for this one?"

Minato smiled hesitantly, "They actually visited five years ago. The date alone raises the issue. October 10th."

The reaction was borderline tectonic. The shinobi council visibly recoiled. The average color of the civilian faces plummeted.

Danzo's face burned a deep crimson (Terrifying when you recall it's wrapped in white.), "Hokage, please do that clan a favor and tell me they were selling pastries. You'd save about ten faces by telling us they were not involved in the attack!"

Asuma groaned and rubbed his face, "Aw crap. My old man described the last few minutes of the battle as containing some kind of negotiation with the fox. Please tell me these aren't animal whisperers?"

Minato groaned, "I think we've taken some of the front line reports with a bit too much salt. They claim to have repelled an element of third party influence from the battle about the same time the fox turned and departed as well as sparked said negotiation. As irate as this has you Danzo; I don't think they so much stole your 'weapon' as they offered it an out. Since we haven't heard any news about our 'natural disaster' wrecking villages I'd say it worked out somehow."

Danzo pounded the large desk and countered, "They weaken us drastically, offer up a few fancy tools and suddenly you're inviting them residence?"

Minato shrugged, "Well I'm glad you and I are on the same page. This is the purpose of this meeting. The kids from before are coming back to hear our response to their offer and pursue any further negotiations depending on our response. I'll say this much; the clan head does not believe the children are in any amount of danger in this endeavor, which means either he has faith in us, or that we're seriously out of our league. I'm looking forward to addressing the former as hopefully it prevents them for alienating us. I'm not aware of anything tying them to the leaf at this point and we don't need another village boasting a surplus of chakra weaponry."

Shikaku (One tails similarity = SUPER ANNOYING!) smirked, "For a politically non existent clan they have quite a bit of leverage behind their efforts to enter the village. Seeing as infiltration has been a growing issue; I think it would be wise to request a demonstration. Granted if they're just kids we'll be using kid gloves, but we would definitely benefit from a skill assessment. If they're using a cover their skills shouldn't match up against a clan member. If they're genuine then we'll have something to consider."

Haruno countered, "Beating up a group of five year olds? Isn't that a bit harsh?"

A.N: Alpha's eyes twitch rapidly, "I…I…I honestly have no excuse that would hold up against the council let alone a real court. Why is Haruno such a childhood enthusiast?! This looks all kinds of dirty, but it feels natural. My grey area is massive if this is even possible to write! My cultural tolerances are getting ridiculous if the demon-brat-fillet enthusiast can sound so concerned about child abuse. That's inner peace beyond the fortune cookie shipping container. Screw nutshells!"

Hiashi's gaze hardened, "These kids bore arms to the village gate, claimed to represent a clan and a political disaster five years past. This is arrogance beyond the leaf village."

A.N: Alpha chuckles, "Oh the Irony is glorious. Suddenly I've found my calling regarding the village council meetings. I can't wait for the Vii's to set up shop and totally yank some chains! Total about face I know, but this oddly satisfying to write. Even the Haruno bit felt vindictive."

Minato nodded curtly, "Alright, so we've got something to cast a vote on. Anything else?"

Inoichi sighed and held his arms behind his head, "Well for one, I'd like to know what their clan's 'alliance' entails. If nothing else it can help identify some of their methodology and integrity. Both ideal should they be friend or foe."

Danzo grumbled, "As much as I'd love to squeeze it out of them, I'll tolerate a diplomatic approach for the time being. People this ambitious are a cake walk to track down."

Minato shrugged, "Potato-potato. Alright that makes two. Do we have a third? I might remind you that we don't have any means of corresponding with them until they next appear in ten days."

One of the civilian bank managers held a magnifying glass over the weapon that reached him, "Well for one, I'd like to know whether we can expect such development as this in the future. If this clan is truly seeking arts such as these, then we may need to assess their integrity regarding those commitments. Where are they gaining the background for such craftsmanship. What are their policies and values regarding competition. Would they encroach on present forms of craftsmanship and innovation or provide a means of development to the leaf." (Well I never liked the idea of civilians being marked as 'idiots' but this is…Seriously, I am obsessed!)

A wave of unease washed over the table. It wasn't localized to the civilians at all either. The idea of clan jutsu and techniques being replicated or 'bastardized' was a sickening feeling.

Minato began to sweat, "Excellent point Jimu-kan. Alright that makes three. Before we get ahead of ourselves, I propose we take a few moments to weigh these options carefully. We'll take a vote in a few minutes. Any objections?"

The room remained silent. (Real meetings tend to focus on priorities rather than the little things)

Minato nodded, "We'll take a five minute break and return for the vote."

—

The council slowly filed back into the chamber and Minato looked over a few notes he'd made regarding the objectives.

As the council finished settling in, Minato spoke up, "Alright, regarding proceeding with the Vii clan. First Item; To arrange a formal discussion with the…Ahem…'Diplomats' regarding their ideals for an alliance. Hands in favor?"

The larger half of the civilian council signaled their approval, including Haruno and 'Jimu-kan'. The shinobi side was practically unanimous with the exception of the Inuzuka and Akimichi clans (Sign of faith). Danzo himself made his stance clear with a stern hand forward.

Minato nodded, "Alright majority in agreement. Next Item; A Cultural and Ideology assessment of the Vii clan's methods of conduct, to be overseen by the shinobi council. Input from the civilian members will be noted as well. Hands in favor?"

The whole table went up in hands. There was only one person who didn't really care, but coming from Danzo it was understandable.

Minato nodded and pulled out a sheet of paper 'That's one thing off my bucket list', "I hardly need to say that will be taking place. Alright, lastly; A skill assessment of the visiting diplomats. Hands in favor."

The majority of the shinobi council voted for the assessment. The civilian council however was less enthusiastic. 'Jimu-kan' agreed to the assessment. Haruno and many other civilians were not eager to see it through.

Minato noted that the majority was in agreement for the assessment, but he could feel the civilian's hesitation. (Note as far as I'm concerned Killing Intent is only one aspect of Karmic Intents. Civilians produce KI fields just as strong under the right circumstances, though they are not as frequently applied/directed.) He sighed and continued, "Well the majority has it. Are there any other matters to be addressed?"

While there may have been some concerns, the current topic had been a deep one that left a number of councilors weary. Minato called the meeting and the council slowly poured out.

—Ten days later—

The three kids arrived at the village border and an Anbu with a dog mask met them at the gate, "The Vii Ambassadors?"

Ambiance pouted, "I hate political titles. They make people sound less like people."

Enigma stepped up, "I think we prefer representatives Inu-san. Ambassadors tend to have a lot more power than three kids regardless of our situation."

Phantom groaned, "Oh for Kami's sake! Yes we're of the Vii clan. (sadly symmetry has me typing 'caln' quite often. Apologies if I failed to catch one of those rebellious habits.)"

Inu nodded, "Please come with me. The Leaf council is waiting for you."

Enigma smirked, "Well let's not keep them waiting!"

Ambiance quickly grabbed the boys arm and shouted, "Don't you dare you lazy baka! We're not going any faster than our escort, lest you cause a panic!"

Enigma groaned before whimpering, "C'mon sis, you know I have a limited amount of patience. If we're about to sit in an alcove for Kami knows how long I'd like some wind in my hair!"

Inu gave a smile behind his mask, "You'd better keep up brat." Kakashi began to go through a slow jog as he re-entered the village.

Enigma smiled and started running circles around the man.

Ambiance smacked her forehead, "And now he's getting spoiled."

Phantom smirked, "Nice try cousin. Halfway through and you'd be bouncing like a beached fish." He took off after Enigma leaving Ambiance to make up the difference, "You know self restraint is part of my training you walking turd." Ambiance followed in a brief sprint before cooling into a jog.

—Fifteen minutes later: Council Chamber—

There was a brief knock on the chamber doors.

Kakashi spoke up, "The Vii ambassadors have arrived."

Minato smirked, "Come on in Inu."

Kakashi opened the doors and the three five year olds walked in.

Ambiance bowed briefly.

Enigma immediately looked around at the massive chamber, "Nice space." The formers eye twitched.

Phantom rolled his shoulders before walking forward, "With how far we've gotten and the level of our escort, I'd say you've opted for some kind of test. Diplomatically sound. Culturally stable. Tactically apprehensive."

A.N: Alpha groans, "The temptation is irritating. I'm using this scene now to get it off my to do list. I might withdraw it later but this REALLY wants to be said:"

Shibi Aburame seemed to adjust before speaking in his monotone, "I like that kid."

On either side of the bug user, Tsume and Inoichi recoiled. The former spoke, "You can do that?!"

Minato attempted to smooth over the outburst, "Well with first impressions already underway; The council has decided to assess your clan's intentions before an official decision is made."

Phantom's eyes narrowed slightly, "Well in that regard I think we are entitled to a summary of such assessments before we could be lead astray."

Minato was a bit off put by the boys directness. Gradually he smiled, "A valid request indeed. The council has decided to implore three evaluations to see if you are indeed sincere. First is to find out what your clan wants in Konoha. Second:" Minato pulled out one of the shuriken, "Is what these imply about your clans 'dabbling' in shinobi arts and trade secrets." He put the weapon away and continued, "Lastly is a skill assessment. Are you permitted to display clan techniques before the leaf?"

Phantom looked at Fugaku, then Hiashi, Finally he turned briefly to the remaining clan heads to gauge their threat level.

While this took place Enigma shrugged, "Well there in lies a bit of controversy. The Vii clan mostly focuses on neglected techniques and forgotten tactics. What we specialize in is typically managed by what others have ignored. Fuinjutsu and applications, Underutilized smithing techniques, neglected shinobi tactics such as trap-making, stealth, kenjutsu. The main limitation is that techniques close enough to be regularly mistaken as someone else's art are quickly discarded by the clan. Techniques like the Hyuga gentle fist technique. If the effect is too similar than the art is abandoned as an infringed project. If the result are altogether different than it is pursued as a neglected art. The art of crafting chakra metal is now so rare that a large amount of our clans efforts have been preserving the art for future generations. The attempts against the Uzumaki made it necessary to prove that their use of the art of sealing was not something that could be destroyed by such ambiguous methods as a slaughter. The current Issue in the land of mist has brought out the interest of lifting the stigma of binary elements from the sights against bloodlines."

Danzo quickly tensed at that, "Are you saying you're after bloodlines?"

Phantom smirked, "Actually we're after the binary elements such as Ice, Lava, Crystal, And one the leaf is so desperate to see replicated with no success, Wood."

The fuse went off and the councils reaction was one of tremendous shock.

Danzo quickly stammered, "One clan…? One clan is after all elemental kekkei genkai?"

Ambiance smirked, "What if I said I've already managed to push ice?"

Hiashi tensed, "You're bluffing."

Ambiance rolled her eyes tauntingly, "Anybody got a glass of water their not fond of?"

Minato smirked, "Oh this I've got to see." He reached for his belt and pulled out a plastic water bottle. He tossed it to the girl and she caught it before moving to the center of the room.

As Ambiance set up Enigma growled, "I still can't believe that dance actually counts as a jutsu. You're not even using hand signs!"

The girl smirked as she stood up, "That's not what you said the first time." She flowed through broad stances occasionally changing her hand positions as her energy slowly began to form. She poured energy into her hands and shoved them towards the water bottle.

Minato's eyebrows cocked when the plastic bottle burst and streams of water poured out. He was about to contradict her when the water hitting the floor began to crystalize on contact, "Kami…it's working?"

Enigma scoffed, "Didn't the glass blow up last time?"

Ambiance pouted, "I hate pure water! It's so defiant!" As if on command the water stopped before the plastic layer snapped. Ice spikes quickly pierced out from the remaining water and an ice porcupine was formed, "About time you stupid fluid!"

Danzo's eye twitched rapidly. He subtly tried to dispel a jutsu to ensure she wasn't a Yuki.

Minato looked over and whispered, "You too huh?"

A.N: Alpha sighs, "Well I'm gonna call it here. It's a bit short but i've already posted the first chunk of this chapter and the viewer tally stalled. I don't want people to assume for a second that this fic is dead."

===Chapter 1 End===