Story by JustObviousAnswers
The Last Sage
Chapter 2: The Journey Home
(Seven Years Later)
Two figures walked along the dirt road both laughing talking about their plans upon arrival at the Village they left from so many years ago; their long journey finally coming to an end.
The man on the left stood tall at about 6'2", with fair skin and white shaggy hair running down his back to his waist. His face framed by red line marks across his cheeks, and white shoulder length bangs on either side. His attire a green short shirt kimono and matching pants, under which held mesh armour visible at the wrists and ankles. Wearing hand guards, a black belt, traditional Japanese wooden sandals, and a red haori with two yellow circles on each side. On his back a large green and brown scroll hung at his waist, and on his horned forehead protector with the kanji for oil indicating him as the man none other than Jiraiya the Toad Sannin - (57 years old).
The man on the right only slightly shorter than his companion at 6' even, with fair skin and blond long shaggy hair running the same down to his waist. His face framed by three whisker marks on each cheek; his attire a orange and black jacket with a black collar, and a red Uzumaki crest on the back. He also wore orange pants with a shuriken holster on his right knee, black sandals, extra pouch on his right hip. Covering his black armour mesh, a long red haori with black flames licking the bottom with the kanji for sage written veritaclly down the back. Over his left shoulder held a brown strap running below his right arm holding a larger scroll than his companions against his back. On his left arm his Village Hidden in the Leaf Headband displayed proudly, while the forehead protector for Fire held back his hair but two bangs peaked over framing his face indicating him as Namikaze Naruto the Doragonsēji (Dragon Sage) - (13 years old).
Anyone looking at the two men could see their style of clothing were almost exactly similar; only a few things in color and style marking any difference; but their hair color and faces indicated the non-blood relation between the two.
In their long journey neither men got home sick; with Jiraiya traveling all his life had learned how to forget about his friends and family back home, and Naruto having very little to remember they never felt the urge to return. During their time across the Nations they were traveling shinobi, Jiraiya using his status as a Sannin to access lands otherwise restricted by Leaf Shinobi to also grant Naruto passage, they had visited every single small and large country in the Elemental Nations more than once. During their travels they stayed for short periods of time in ally and enemy nations; sometimes training with their shinobi trading jutsu and knowledge in friendly exchanges earning respect and trust from all Villages.
For the first few months after departing from Konoha Naruto was hostile, easy to anger around Jiraiya still feeling betrayed for being left alone to be abused and tortured by Konoha civilians; his attitude made talking to other people hard. But overtime Naruto gave in to his godfathers apologizes and cheerful way taking up a more light and friendly tone; after a year he was a joy to be around. Anybody the two meet in their travels easily liked the down to earth nature of the two traveling men.
Jiraiya talked about his ideas of a future with peace and prosperity passing onto Naruto his generally light-hearted and gregarious attitude for fellow shinobi. Naruto agreed with his godfathers ideas for peace between nations but didn't agree totally with the method of which to get it. Naruto believed a strong aggressive approach must be used to force Villages to agree to a long term alliance, because of the deep hatred and uptight patriarchy that the Five Great Nations held between each other. Naruto always used the Iwagakure hatred at his father as an example; no Tsuchikage would ever sit down with the son of Minato Namikaze for a peace agreement simply because of what Minato did in the last great war. Jiraiya always forced to agree because even with their Sannin traveling status, they never visited Iwagakure for fear Naruto's blond hair would give away his heritage and they be imprisoned.
As they walked their conversation started to die down till an eery silence fell over them, their anticipation filling the air as a tall wall came into view down their road of travel. Since Naruto's departure seven years ago they had not visited the home of the two men at all. Sending only messenger toads every few months on their status and location, the information they received back was generally just a few received message updates from the Third Hokage, and how much he missed them at home. Finally after seven years the Sondaime Hokage recalled his traveling ninja, reasons why not stated but notice of importance implied. Jiraiya and Naruto coming far away from Mushroom Village in the Lightning Country, they quickly made it back to Konohagakure; turning a four day trip into two.
As they approached the main Gate they noticed that the walls appeared to be very clean and repainted; a large banner hung over the entrance way held by strings attached to each gate with the writing: Welcome to Konohagakure. Naruto voiced the changes out-loud, his worry that Konoha had been attacked or was in trouble slipping away.
"Yeah your right, probably weren't attacked recently; and from our spy network we know no Nation has declared war.. I wonder why Sarutobi-sensei called us back home?" - Jiraiya replied.
Naruto stayed silent as they walked up to the gate guards; the two infamous eternal chunin: Kotetsu Hagane and Izumo Kamizuki. Both recognize Jiraiya immediately; "Hey Jiraiya-sama! It's been so long, how ya been!" Izumo yelled out waving. Kotetsu noticing who was with the Toad Sage elbowed Izumo and whispered into his ear, Naruto frowned seeing this remembering that the two were never mean or directly nice to Naruto in general just neutral so he didn't see why they would hold hate against him now.
"Hey Izumo! Been a long time, glad to be back home! Sensei called us back from our travels!" Jiraiya said ignoring how their demeanor changed seeing Naruto.
Izumo nodded and then looked directly at Naruto his expression serious, Naruto worried they were about to directly refuse him entry to Konoha and an argument was about to break out.
Both Izumo and Kotetsu suddenly surprised the two men; dropping to their knees and bowing their heads low to the ground "I am sorry the way we treated you in your youth Namikaze-denka, we were ignorant and foolish. I hope you can one day forgive us for the way we acted; we never knew of your heritage and were blinded by our hate for the Kyubi no Yoko sealed within you."
Naruto and Jiraiya sweatdropped, "Please stand up" Naruto quickly stated helping them to their feet. "As far as I remember you two were never mean to me, I hold no hate against either of you, you don't need to apologize."
Izumo just looked at him confused; "But we ignored you and never stood up for you when people threw nasty names" he looked down in shame at this his words choking.
"Oh well that's okay.. the name calling never affected me much.. it was more peoples actions.." Naruto let his words hang in the air.
Kotetsu looked at him even more confused "What do you mean.. actions?" he looked at Izumo obviously never hearing about people doing something against the young boy.
"I was more hurt when people would beat me, or try to kill me.. my last memory of here is the worst I have" Naruto replied looking away.
The two chunin stood there stunned; "Oh kami..We never knew people tried to kill you, we've always been part of the Wall Guard so the worst we heard were people in the Market denying you food.."
Naruto just stood silent trying to stop the harsh memories from coming back, Jiraiya saw this and spoke up trying to change the topic "Anyways so were gonna go report to Hokage-sama; here's our entrance seal and return message with the Hokage Stamp." He pulled out from his back pocket the last message they received two days ago, Izumo took it and nodded the whole time taking looks at Naruto feeling saddened at what he said.
Naruto just looked away from the gates, a far away look on his face.
- Flashback - Four Years Ago - Kirigakure
Naruto and Jiraiya walked up to the gates of Kirigakure - they finally arrived after a few days of travel from Kumogakure; having decided that the best place for Naruto to train in stealth and elemental water ninjutsu was the Village best known for it. As they neared the check-in station the vast steel gates gave a wide open view of the desolate open courtyard, only a few shinobi ninja could be seen within hanging out or standing guard. Naruto could sense a tension in the air like everyone was on edge; he even noticed there was a lot more shinobi posted along the wall than what would be normal - even the guards at the gate were stiff and formal with Jiraiya.
Naruto looked back up to Jiraiya as they were given entrance to the Village. "Where is everyone sensei?"
He looked down at Naruto as they walked further into the village; "There's a curfew in effect on the village.. everyone's inside for the night."
Not reading into Jiraiya's mood Naruto pushed for more information; "Why's there a curfew, did something happen?"
He didn't respond right away; just thinking about if he should tell a nine year old about the evil that was the Yondaime Mizukage. He's gonna find out sooner or later, and it's better he learn now then accidentally hear about it from someone in the village.
"There's a civil war going on at the moment - the Yondaime Hokage along with his supporters have a harsh hatred for clans that contain bloodlines after the Kaguya clan that was once a part of the village attacked civilians and shinobi unprovoked; leading to the elimination of the clan. Now the people of Kirigakure have a call order for the extermination of all bloodline clans, and have provoked a rebellion side leading to their current civil war" Jiraiya finished with a sigh.
He tried to keep his own personal opinions out of the summary so Naruto could draw his own conclusion of which side was at fault for the civil war but he wanted so badly to trash talk the Mizukage for using the opportunity the Kaguya Clan provided to further his own agenda.
Naruto thought about what he learned - he held a hate for the people of Kirigakure for blindly following their Mizukage's agenda, using their jealously of bloodline clans to cloud their judgement. But Naruto couldn't help but feel something was missing from the summary, it didn't make sense for a clan to randomly go against their own village and attack civilians.
"Sensei why did the Kaguya Clan attack their own village, you say unprovoked but they must have had a reason - especially since they knew it would be a losing fight."
Jiraiya thought about that for a moment - he knew there was two sides to the story, the Kaguya Clan didn't just randomly attack the Village; there most likely was some unreset in the shinobi council that provoked them to attack. But there was also the rumors that Kaguya Clan was bloodthirty for battle, but even he knew that something felt off about that.
"Uh well one rumor is that the Kaguya Clan is a bloodthirty clan, the peaceful time period after the Third Shinobi War provided unrest to their constant battle tendencies; so this attack was sort of their next 'fix'. Theres another rumor that there was unrest in the village shinobi council; so there was probably insults, or laws being put in place that were biased against their clan.. obviously nobody but the council and the Mizukage really knows the truth" Jiraiya frowned, it was scary how intense the conversation had gotten; he almost forgot he was talking to a nine year old boy.
He looked over at said child and his frown resided; this was Naruto Uzumaki not any ordinary kid. As if to prove his point, Naruto's next statement put the legendary sannin on his heels.
"No, I don't think either one is true. If they were bloodthirsty for battle the clan would request higher ranked missions with chance of large battles that way they could serve their Village, and stoke their lust at the same time. And if there was unrest within the Shinobi Council, the Kaguya Clan would threaten to leave the village to escape the bigotry - and the Mizukage would take action to settle their disputes. This instead feels like an outside influence is stoking the flames of war; it's unlike a Mizukage to situate himself into a Civil War because it loosens the power of the Village and gives a negative light on the Country as a whole leading to a collapse in their economy and lose in trust from other Nations. What's the Water Daimyo's position in this civil war, has he taken a side?"
Jiraiya stood still thinking over the analysis finding it to be accurate in all sense, interestingly enough he had not thought about an outside influence provoking the war - it was not uncommon for other Nations or individual parties to use politics as a benefactor for wealth or power.
"The Water Daimyo is supporting the Mizukage, it would be unwise for him to go against the elected leader of a shinobi village; most likely knowing that the Kage knows best for what needs to be done."
Naruto frowned at this; "See it goes to prove my point even more, for the Water Daimyo to ignore the advise of his council - who very well knows the negative impact a civil war will have on their economy, political power, and welfare of the people - points to an outside influence working within Kirigakure. I'm thinking someone is using this as an opportunity to weaken the power Kirigakure has to take control of something they only contain, while also eliminating the threat of bloodlines in the future. So the real question is who is influencing this, and why?"
The Toad Sannin stayed quiet at this, as they walked the Mist seemed to get thicker until they reached a side street turning both of them snapped from their thoughts as the street came into view. In front of Naruto and Jiraiya a man was being held up by his neck surrounded by five Kiri-shinobi. They all had masks on but the man against the wall, his face showed fear and confusion - like he hadn't been expecting the men to attack him.
Naruto was about to yell them off but Jiraiya put a hand on his shoulder shaking his head.
He looked back at the group, one of them was berating the man with questions as the biggest one held the man up choking him from answering. The closest ones to Naruto and Jiraiya must of sensed them watching, he turned around and saw them then turned back to the biggest man; "Kaku we have visitors." The biggest man turned his head looking at the two, still holding the man up by his neck.
Grinning he looking over at his companions; "Let's show them what happens to blood traitors in Kiri" his statement was met with a couple chuckles, and nods. The man got wide eye'd and started thrashing about trying to escape the enormous clutch of the man holding him - his attempt unsuccessful.
The smallest of the group pulled out a long dark silver sword, holding it against the mans neck as he stilled closing his eyes.
Naruto realized he was about to watch an execution, before he could move Jiraiya grabbed his arm hard - his hand giving no room for movement. "But Sensei!" he pleaded but Jiraiya just shook his head; "This isn't our village, we have no place in this war" he said as he started to pull Naruto away from the view of the alley.
Jiraiya wasn't quick enough though, Naruto saw the slash of a blade, and thick red liquid streaked the misty air as the head of the man fell to the ground with a loud thump. All Naruto could hear as they went out of view was the sounds of echo'd laughs, his tears fell quick to the ground.
- Present - Konohagakure
Naruto!
His face snapped back hearing the voice, he looked at the three men talking around him; Izumo confirming the sealed message and allowing them entry while Jiraiya thanked him and promised to get a drink later on.
Sorry Kurama-sensei, I.. was thinking about the past.
I know Naruto I sensed your anger and frustration; but this time it's different.
Naruto closed his eyes and sighed Thanks Kurama-sensei. He came back to the present; Jiraiya was walking next to him through the gates, the view within looked amazing it looked like a festival was taking place; people and stands covered the main walkway. Vendors, civilian merchants and shinobi all clumped together in a big crowded area surrounded on all sides by food, clothes, and gift shop stands. Long strands of banners and colored signs connected between streetlamps and buildings, Naruto noticed it wasn't just Konoha civilians everywhere, he saw Kumogakure clothing, Sungakure headbands, even Iwagakure colors. Everyone had looks of excitement and wonder; all happy at the festive mood that punctured the air, Jiraiya elbowed Naruto "Looks like some big event is going on in Konoha! I can't remember last time I saw so much activity from all different nations, last time was..." Jiraiya voice trailed off, a grin hinting at his face.
Naruto just looked at him confused; as the walked they were dodging kids and civilians left and right "Since what?"
Jiraiya looked down at his student a smile spreading across his face "Oh that's why sensei called us home, this is gonna be fun!"
"Just tell me what going on!" Naruto said smiling at his sensei's demeanor.
"No, no I believe it's better if Hokage-sama tells you" Jiraiya laughed with a shit eating grin. Naruto just sighed looking around at the banners investigating for a clue as to what was going on.
In the center of the plaza a huge fountain sprayed a small mist for comfort in the July sun; hogging it's steps were tons of konoha shinobi keeping peace with all the overcrowding and movement; some of them off duty just talking and hanging out with friends. Others on duty to keep watch over the crowd, and stopping robbers from stealing unsuspecting civilians merchandise. The infamous Konoha 11 around the northside of the fountain laid about looking bored; Shino and Shikamaru sat at a shogi table enwrapped in an intense match, Choji and Kiba on a bench eating away at large meatball sandwiches, Rock Lee and Neji doing a light taijutsu spar while a few civilians watching interested, Tenten and Hinata sat on the ridge of the fountain letting the breeze spray light water against their necks, and Sasuke laid down on a step his head in Sakura's lap while Ino massaged his leg; both muling over his physique and hair.
As Naruto and Jiraiya made their way toward the fountain to have a good look around the plaza from the center, the crowd stared to clear up. They entered into a clearing, and turned around to look out over the crowd their backs to the fountain area; only about a good fifteen feet away from the Konoha 11.
Chouji was the first to notice the two men, elbowing Kiba he said "*hmph who's those two *hmph they look like *hmph famous ninja" spitting bits of sandwich. Kiba looked up lazily and saw where he was pointing, looking at the Kanji on the back of the two men his eyes went wide like saucers.
"Holy Kami! That's Jiraiya the Toad Sannin! Hey guys look who's back in the village!" Kiba yelled out starling the Konoha 11, even Sasuke sat up at the unexpected noise.
Tenten looked at the two guys she was pointing at her eyes getting excited at the two scroll on their backs; the one on the left with a shortened bright red haori had a summoning scroll, with the kanji for Toad on the side. While the one on the right with the black flames on his haori had a thicker storage scroll that had writing for various weaponry, summoning, and sealing purposes. Her mouth practically drooled at the power such scrolls contained, she remember a smaller size one hanging on the wall in her fathers shop that could hold hundreds of swords, knives, and kunai.
Sakura looking up became curious at the blond hair guy, he looked strong; almost the same size and physique as the man he was standing next but clearly much younger. "If the white hair guy is Jiraiya the Legendary Toad Sannin then who's the other guy? That can't be Orochimaru?"
Sasuke just stared curious.
Shikamaru drew his eyes away from the shogi game looking to where she was looking, he saw the two red haori backs thinking for a moment "hm troublesome the other guy must be Naruto".
Everyone gasped at this, they all remembered the silent, loner demon brat from when they were children always being told by their parents to watch out or ignore him on the playgrounds and out in public. Then they remembered one day he disappeared and a few days later the Hokage made a big announcement to all shinobi that Naruto was the sole heir to the Namikaze Clan; the Yondaime Hokage's Clan.
Ino stared at Naruto's back looking at his blond hair falling down to his waist, impressed at his height and physique. This guys so tall and strong how can that be Naruto he's a head over all of us, were the same age.. "That can't be Naruto, Shikamaru-baka; he was kicked out the village - and that guys a lot taller than us, Naruto's our age he would be the same height!"
Shikamaru just shook his head at his teammates stupidity troublesome "Naruto wasn't kicked out the village he left before Hokage-sama told us he was a Namikaze; he didn't like the way we treated him so he left the village, and if you remember Jiraiya-sama also left the same day, it only makes sense a six year old kid leave the village with an adult like Jiraiya than venture off on his own."
Everyone stayed silent, nobody could argue these facts because it made sense; Shikamaru just shook his head and went back to the shogi game.
Lee and Neji stopped their spar looking over with everyone else; "Naruto is back? He appears most Youthful!" Lee stated looking up and down their outfit. Neji activated his Byakugan silently reading over their chakra signatures he gasped outloud surprising everyone because they had never seen him show any other emotion than confidence and sneering before.
"What is it Neji!?" - Tenten asked surprised by her teammates demeanor.
"That's impossible!" Neji yelled out, everyone but Shikamaru looked at him confused. "He's a monster!" this point he sat down stunned, his eyes reverting back to normal he closed them wincing.
"What are you talking about?" Sakura said surprised at the fear on his face.
"His chakra! It's massive! It's almost ten times larger than Jiraiya's! How the fuck?!" Neji yelled out, everyone winced back in surprise. Not just because of his comment but they had never heard Neji show so much emotion let alone swear before. They all looked back at the two standing next to each other talking to each other like nothing in the world was going on, calmly talking and laughing.
"hm troublesome blond" Shikamaru stated simply, snapping down his next move on the shogi board; Shino sweated a little under his jacket. He has sent two scouting bugs to confirm Neji's comment by sucking out a little of Naruto's chakra but both died to the potency of it, something Shino had never seen before.
Hinata having been quiet this whole time finally stood up and started to walk over to the two men, everyone in the group looked up at this; their thoughts going to overdrive at the Hyuga's action. Kiba almost yelled out to stop her, but the aura she was giving off had Akamaru yelp out for him to shut up. Right before she reached Naruto she stopped in place, a full minute passed before she lightly tapped Naruto on the shoulder and he turned around.
(2 Minutes ago)
Naruto and Jiraiya just stared out look around at the various stands oblivious to the people behind them.
"Man this is awesome! I've never seen so many shinobi, civilians, monks, travelers, merchants, and farm hands in one place before! And their all from different villages! This is so exciting! Whatever this event is I'm signing up, I can't miss out on this much action if all these people are here for one thing!" Naruto babbled, his face in a huge grin.
Jiraiya just shook his head at his students antics; "I think your probably already signed up, Hokage-sama wouldn't want his best ninja to miss out on an event like this."
Naruto looked up at his sensei his smile wide at this, as he was about to reply he felt a light tap on his shoulder.
Turning around he saw the one thing he had missed for the past seven years; the thing he thought about everyday, the one reason he trained himself into the ground to become stronger and more powerful to protect.
Hinata Hyuga stood before him in all her beauty. Naruto smiled wide looking her up and down easily a head shorter than Naruto at 5'5" she was wearing a light lavender, sleeveless kimono-style blouse with vertical lines, tied with a dark purple obi around her waist. Wearing a pair of short dark navy shorts with thigh-high stockings and black high-heeled boots, on her right leg she had a strapped black kunai holder. As Naruto's eyes traveled down her body he lingered a bit at the opening holding her displayed.. assets, clearly showing much growth during his time away.
As he traveled back up to her face he noticed her eyes were red and her face was scrunched up like she was about to sneeze, before Naruto could ask what was wrong though he felt a hard flat hand hit his left cheek fast and strong.
The audible contact of Hinata's flat hand to Naruto's cheek could be heard for almost a mile; Naruto staggered back in pain and surprise, a small smile slipped his lips though at the pain he felt on his cheek. Damn she has some strength! Indeed, even I felt that. - Kurama chuckled, the slap had woken him out of his slumber.
Everyone around them just stared at the event in wide eyed surprise, all of the Konoha 10's mouth hung wide open; even Sasuke was dead surprised.
The silence was unnerving compared to the noisey busyness that had momentarily subsided, Jiraiya just stared in awe; he had never seen a slap so hard before as Tsunade preferred more powerful chakra filled punchs to slaps and he just witnessed a pure strength slap that had a shockwave effect sound. Looking down Jiraiya saw a few cracks in the concrete from where Naruto had been standing, Jiraiya was in the simplest terms impressed.
"You promised!" Hinata yelled at him, tears now fully flowing. Naruto could only choke down his response, so surprised he had no idea what to say. "You promised we would be friends and then you left!" she fell to her knees at this her hands at her eyes.
Naruto just looked down at her his shame spreading fast at her words, he whole body felt rooted in place. He didn't expect to have to run into Hinata just moments upon coming back and having this conversation, he had prepared what to say to her for the past two days but now his thoughts were blank.
"Why?!" Hinata yelled looking back up at him. Naruto swallowed hard at this, knowing it was his only chance to make things better, maybe for her to no hate him. "You know why." Naruto snapped back, he didn't mean for it to be so accusatory but his thoughts were so jumbled he didn't know how to fight his emotions.
"No I mean why didn't you take me with you!" Naruto looked up surprised at this, he didn't understand it; she wanted to go with him? Did she not hate him for who he was? For the beast inside of him? She wanted to go with him on his journey, to abandon the village to be with him. Her comment cleared his thoughts, he knew what to say now; the public setting though made it awkward to talk but he fought back the thought.
"I'm sorry Hinata. I couldn't take you with me.. it wouldn't be right, I couldn't ask you to abandon your family for me." Naruto responded his emotions steady now, and his voice compassionate. Hinata had the opposite reaction though, she was even more hurt; before she could yell at him that she would of left her ignorant family in a heartbeat for him - he cut her off.
"Let's go somewhere alone and talk.." Naruto replied his face showing a small understanding smile, he reached out his hand for her to grab. She looked around at where she was realizing how public of a scene she was making, blushing she took his hand and stood up.
"I'm sorry" Naruto replied in a almost whisper at being so close, then without warning he enveloped her in his arms. She made a small yelp at the touch her cheeks burning red, suddenly her hair flew up at the feeling of a gust of wind at her back and he released her from his arms.
Hinata looked back around confused, she didn't sense the crowd that had gathered around at her yelling anymore and she saw the two of them were in a open field nothing around them for a few hundred feet. Surprised she looked back at Naruto with a confused look, "Sorry I felt like we should get out of there to talk privately."
She nodded, and filed away to ask him what he did to get them here so fast for later; she had more important things to talk about at the moment.
(1 Minute Ago - Plaza)
Everyone watched as Naruto wrapped Hinata in his arms, Kiba's let out a low growl then suddenly they both disappeared. Everyone stared at the spot they were just standing then looked over at Jiraiya, all waiting for a explanation at their sudden disappearance. Seeing the gathered crowd staring at him Jiraiya rubbed the back of his head and said "Eh heh.. uh gotta go report to the Hokage Bye!" and disappeared in similar fashion.
The Konoha 10 just all looked at each other and started discussing the events just unfolded, the girls gathered in a group discussing how handsome Naruto looked now and how strong/tall he was. Sasuke, Kiba, Neji, and Lee just broaded over the fact they now had an eternal rival to fight with while Shino and Shikamaru wrapped up their shogi game.
(Training Ground 42)
"Why didn't you take me with you? You know I would of-" Naruto cut her off.
"Because I wasn't strong enough to protect you, even with Jiraiya a legendary Sannin there was a few close calls where we both almost died; three months after we left we ran into two s-ranked ninja and narrowly escaped having to reverse summoned to Mount Myoboku. Plus think about how your family would react to you abandoning the village, they would have had the council classify you as a rogue ninja putting a bounty on your head. They would never let something as precious as their Byakugan fall into enemy hands, I wouldn't even put it past Hiashi to send some of your own clan members to hunt you down."
Hinata stayed quiet at this, knowing what he was saying as true. She just wanted to argue with him, to punish him for leaving her with nothing but a note and key.
"But your right" he almost whispered, Hinata perked her head up to look at him "I should of stayed instead of run away from my problems, but I just felt like I was being suffocated here never to be respected or trusted. Even the shinobi, the people who knew the truth about what I hold in me and why didn't - trust me. So I was sick of it, I used Hokage-sama, and Jiraiya-sensei's feeling to my own advantage to persuade them into letting me leave. I'm more mature now so I know it would of been better to face the problem head on instead of abandoning it, abandoning everything."
".. but can you blame me? I still miss Ayame and Teuchi.." Naruto said in a low voice
Hinata's tears started to fall fast at this; she knew that Naruto's pain ran so deep because of the people of the Village so when his two loved ones died it really was the straw that broke the camels back.
"I'm sorry Naruto, I shouldn't be so mad" Hinata replied moving toward him.
"Hehe it's okay hime, I like your feisty attitude." he said grabbing her and pulled her into his chest.
Hinata squeked at the sudden contact then after a few seconds just embraced the hug and they pulled together closer.
"Do you think you can forgive me?" Naruto whispered into her hair, he could barely contain himself from intaking the heavenly scent that emanated from her locks.
"Hmm" Hinata was giddy, she could feel his muscles through his clothes against her chest and the grizzly smell coming off was intoxicating, she could barely focus. "Under one condition."
"What's that hime?" he replied giving in to the smell, letting it fill his nose he breathed deeply into her hair.
"You have to take me on a date" Hinata replied, her face becoming flush she could barely stand her head starting to feel fuzzy, she released her grip on his back and they took a step back from one another. Both their faces heavily red, Hinata couldn't help but feel sad at the lack of warmth and comfort she felt in his arms.
"Deal" replied Naruto with a foxy grin.
They stared at each other for a moment before they finally looked away, "I think we should head back now, the others will get worried you've kidnapped me" Hinata broke their muse goading him.
"Hm if only I could" he shot back, before she could respond he grabbed her arm and they disappeared in a whirl. This time Hinata could see the environment change and was surprised at the ability Naruto had to almost teleport from one place to another.
(2 Minutes Ago - Plaza)
"Well should we just wait here, or go searching for Hinata" Tenten questioned to the group.
"We should go searching for Hinata! I'll break Naruto's fucking neck when we find him! How dare he take Hinata away!" Kiba shot back, he had been storming back and forth for a couple minutes in anger, Akamaru just stayed quiet on top his head.
troublesome "They'll be back any minute, relax, you couldn't take on Naruto anyways Kiba" replied Shikamaru not taking his eyes away from the shogi board, after his win against Shino - Neji decided to challenge Shikamaru in the game.
Everyone just looked at Shikamaru confused, "What do you mean baka" Ino shot at him, Shikamaru just shrugged his shoulder's still not looking up.
Kiba boiled at his comment, but before he could shout at him Sasuke surprisingly spoke up.
"I demand you tell me what you mean right now" his eyes death stared coldly at the Nara, both Sakura and Ino felt a cold shiver run down their backs.
Shikamaru looked up at this, troublesome I shouldn't have said anything "Neji just said before they left he's got more chakra reserves than anyone in the village.. and he just did the Yondaime Hokage's infamous Hiraishin no Jutsu" everyone looked at him surprised, having heard of the Hiraishin no Jutsu in the academy as it was the prized Yondaime Hokage's S-Rank jutsu.
"Plus he has been gone for seven years training under a Sannin.." he let the words hang in the air, looking back down at the Shogi board he snapped a piece forward.
The men all boiled over this information enveloped in their thoughts; before they could retort he was lieing or that the dobe loser Naruto couldn't be strong, Hinata and Naruto flashed into place in front of them.
Everyone but Shikamaru's heads snapped up glaring, their confirmation Naruto could do the Hiraishin no Jutsu staring them in the face.
Kiba growled and was about to snap at Naruto for his actions but got cut off, "Sorry guys I had to talk to Hinata alone" Naruto nodded to the group who all stared shocked at him.
Naruto looked back at Hinata releasing her from his arms; "I'll see you tomorrow, I gotta go report to Jiji now. We'll pick out a time and place for our date later" he winked and disappeared with a flash, Hinata flushed.
Immediately the girls surrounded Hinata pumping her for information, giggling and laughing at how hard she slapped Naruto. They started to walk away talking about what Hinata was going to wear for her date, and how she needed to pick out a proper outfit. Meanwhile a few of the men just trash talked Naruto for a while; Shikamaru and Shino staying quiet - before heading out themselves.
(Hokage's Office)
Naruto Hiraishin'd to the tag on Jiraiya's back, surprising the Third Hokage at his sudden appearance. "Naruto! Well I guess you weren't lieing Jiraiya when you broke down his skills and abilities, I haven't seen that same yellow flash in Thirteen Years."
Naruto just rubbed the back of his neck; "Hey Jiji, yeah sorry I didn't come here right away.. I ran into a old friend.. and needed to talk about a few things."
Sarutobi Hiruzen nodded and looked Naruto up and down appreciating how he looked like a strong and powerful shinobi with his outfit and physique much different from the scrawny boy from seven years ago; "Yes I heard about how our Hyuga Hinata slapped you stupid" the old man replied grinning.
Naruto looked up at his sensei, who was shrugging.
"Anyways why have we been called back home Jiji, I'm assuming it's something to do with the festival going on out there?" Naruto pointed out the window behind Sarutobi.
"Yes and no, first of all I wanted to catch up with you two to see where you were at in your training, from what Jiraiya tells me you could take me on in a full out spar right now.." Sarutobi smiled "So, I am recalling you home to test your skills and verify their truthfulness."
Jiraiya just frowned "You don't believe me Sensei? When I say Naruto had beat me one on one, I wasn't obfuscating; actually kinda embarrasing- "
Sarutobi cut him off "I know Jiraiya, I believe you.. but testing Naruto's skills serves multiple purposes. First off, I want to retire, I'm getting to old to be doing this and it's my time to pass on the torch just like it was my time to pass it on fourteen years ago with Minato. So, if what you say is true I want Naruto to take my place; my first choice would obviously be you Jiraiya because of your experience in the shinobi world but you have told me time and time again that you have no interest in sitting behind a desk all day. So instead I will take my second choice Naruto; your little experience and lack of knowledge in politics does give me caution so that brings me to my second reason."
Naruto just stayed silent at his grandfathers words; he was too stunned to talk, this conversation was not what he was expecting when coming back to Konoha. Taking up the mantle as Hokage? Did he still want this goal? It was always he dream to be respected and trusted by the Village and becoming Hokage would definitely help with that goal but would the shinobi even allow it? Would they follow his lead? No.. they wouldn't.. not immediately.
Naruto relax and listen, Hokage-sama is explaining his plan to you; your not going to become Hokage today so chill out Kurama growled as he felt Naruto's panic.
He relaxed and listened back into the conversation; "The event that's taking place is the Chunin Exams; a collaborative event between multiple Hidden Ninja Village's in sending their top genin teams to compete for promotion to the rank of chunin and sometimes Jounin. I want to use this event to our advantage in showing off Naruto and his skills to the other villages. The first two parts of the exams will just be for my own evaluation of your skills, and for your fellow teammates to see how powerful you are. The last part of the exams will be viewed by all the Kage's that have competing genin that made it to the final rounds of which your skills be also be displayed; and later when I have you take my place they will think twice about invading a brand new young Hokage. That is .. if you still want it.."
Naruto stayed silent for a moment, he understood the plan he had in place and had to admit it was a good one, his fellow shinobi couldn't argue about how strong he was if they could see it for themselves. Even the Kage would not argue this if it was so blatantly obvious, he sighed out loud at the thought if Iwagakure Shinobi were taking place in the exams how many people he would have to fight just to get them to back off.
Then he thought about Jiji's lingering question, did he want to take the position of Hokage?
He knew who he had to ask.
"Give me one minute, I'm going to meditate for a little bit and talk all this over with Kyubi; then give you an answer" Naruto replied. The aged Hokage nodded, surprised that Naruto was mature enough to take such a question very seriously and look to talk to an 'adviser' about his answer. It just provided more evidence for Sarutobi he was making a good choice, despite what Danzo and his 'advisers' would comment.
He went over to the couch on the side of the wall and sat down with his legs crossed, his hands sat on his knees and he closed his eyes and seemingly relaxed while still sitting up straight.
Sarutobi just raised a eyebrow at his student; Jiraiya just shrugged "He does this every once in a while, the kids already a tactical genius; and with the combined experience of the Kyubi no Yoko they make a fierce strategical mind."
"Is it true what you say about his Sage Ability? I can't help but feel like your exaggerating his-"
"Trust me Sensei when you see it you'll know I'm not exaggerating, I've never seen anything like it.. he literally can do anything; no seals, handsigns, or anything required.. it's amazing. Even Shodai Hokage didn't have this type of control; the kid reminds me of the stories we heard about Rikudo Sennin."
Sarutobi just sat back thinking over this information; even when Minato was training under Jiraiya he didn't brag his students abilities this way so it made it all the more appealing that Naruto really was so powerful.
Naruto suddenly stood up and walked back over the desk, drawing Sarutobi away from his thoughts.
"That was quick Naruto, must of been a short discussion" he stated a little disappointed, thinking he was gonna get a negative answer.
"Sorry Jiji guess Sensei didn't tell you, two minutes in the real world is about ten minutes in my mindscape; it's where I do most of my training and jutsu learning." Naruto replied, the old man went wide eyed at this having never heard of such a thing before even from Kushina when she would talk to the Kyubi no Yoko ever once in a while.
He voiced his surprise at this information; "Well it's kinda hard to explain properly cause it's mostly just a feeling, but training in mindscape is like working a muscle; the more you do it the better in clarity and retention you get. So, the more I trained in my mindscape with Kurama, the more time slowed down compared to the outside world."
Sarutobi nodded at this, he immediately thought about the applications this could be used if he trained shinobi in meditation and mindscape training so time could be saved learning jutsu and abilities. Naruto must of sensed where his mind was wandering cause he cut this idea off.
"We have learned though that only Jinchūriki can properly train in mindscape, you need something to focus on as an anchor in your mind to be able to spend long periods of time in there let alone train. It's also really complex, it took me almost two years just to get the hang of fighting in my mindscape let alone building chakra and practicing jutsu." Sarutobi just shrugged at this, sort of glad it was a hard ability to master.
"So, now that you have discussed this with Kyubi what do you think? How would you like to take my place as the Godaime Hokage?" Sarutobi perked.
"Yes I would be honored to take up the mantel as Godaime Hokage, Kurama and I believe that this will be the best avenue for my goal; to be respected and admired by the Village. However I have a few conditions that I have to achieve before this happens; first I have to re-establish the Namikaze Clan within Konoha, that means a position within the council as clan heir, establish the clan estate with multiple residents, and be recognized as the head of the Namikaze Clan. Next I want to make a motion in the next council that all orphaned children during wartime or peace are to be placed under the protection of a clan of THEIR choosing, no matter their abilities, bloodlines, family name, etc. I don't want what happened to me during my childhood to happen to any other orphan. And heed my words, if this resolution does not pass I will take no interest in this village anymore, take this as my test on the civilian council of Konoha. If their clan superiority complex is still at the all time peak that they will throw orphaned children into the streets so that one clan won't gain power over another I will not respect anyone in the Village. Finally I need to investigate a few rumors that we have heard during our journey. One is that Orochimaru has something big planned against Konoha in the coming months and I want to find out what it is. Another is that the Yondaime Kazekage was assassinated and Sunagakure is currently under attack, but I can't see this as being true we would of heard more about it especially since Sunagakure Shinobi are here in the village and their our ally. Finally the one that scares me the most is apparently there's a organization of powerful rogue ninja forming with the goals to dismantle our Five Great Nations and I want to personally investigate this rumors authenticity."
Sarutobi nodded at these very valid and intelligent conditions; he could see what Jiraiya meant by Naruto's tactical mind - his fear of Naruto lacking political experience went out the window.
"Very well I cannot argue with any of these conditions, but I have got to ask why you need to personally investigate the rumors; we have a whole Intelligence Division for these types of things, and I already have Orochimaru under investigation with a kill on sight order for all Nations" the old man argued, mostly he was just sad that Naruto might leave again from the Village after only just gotten back.
"The reason I want to personally go is that all these rumor investigations will easily become S Ranked Missions, of which I believe only sensei or myself will be able to confirm and survive to report" Naruto stated bluntly his face dead serious.
"I understand.." he replied looking back over to Jiraiya who nodded his confirmation.
"Alright, so what during the coming months I'll spend time showing off to the other ninja villages in the Chunin Exams, but my main focus is going to be investigating the rumors for now. They seem to be the top priority at the moment, my clan revival and council resolutions can be pushed back for now" Naruto sighed loudly as he finished talking.
"What's the matter Naruto?" Hiruzen questioned.
"You'll find out.." Naruto replied as he went to sit down on the couch.
Jiraiya looked over at his sensei shrugging his shoulders; then a moment later the door flew open and Kiba Aburame burst through the door followed in slowly by Neji Hyuga and Sasuke Uchiha.
Kiba looked around the room noticing the two men that sat to the right side, anger cross his face as he stared Naruto down. Sasuke and Neji flanked him on both sides also glaring at Naruto, the older men in the room chuckled at their antics and Sarutobi decided to play along with their rude entrance.
"Yes the heirs, and prodigy of three powerful clans grace me with their presence in my humble office, how can my lowly self be of service to you?" Sarutobi snapped at them, only Kiba and Neji looked off put in shame at the realization of their rude entrance. However Sasuke just smirked unaware of the sarcastic tone, taking it as a show of respect to the 'might Uchiha clan'.
Neji bowed, "We're sorry Hokage-sama, but we felt it important that you made aware the banished Uzumaki Naruto was seen within the village; as you are clearly informed.." his eyes flicked over to Naruto lazily laying down on the couch. "We also wanted to make you aware he had taken the Hyuga Heiress - Hinata to an undisclosed location away from her protection for a short amount of time; clearly kidnapping her for information. I want him punished as you deem fit as this was an act of terror against the Hyuga Clan - as a direct violation of shinobi law" he grinned as he raised himself back up. Only to be confused at the looks that appeared on the Hokage, Naruto, and Jiraiya's faces; they were all very pissed at his words, a sweat went down the Hyuga Prodigy's neck.
The Hokage coughed to clear his throat; "Clearly your don't seem to understand that lieing to your Hokage is in many ways an act of treason against the Hidden Leaf Village and is punishable by death" all three boys gulped, regretting coming to the office. "I will simply over look this as maybe you were misinformed to your knowledge, and so the report you just gave me is incomplete and not a direct lie" Hiruzen continued before they could talk.
"First of all Naruto NAMIKAZE.." he punchered the last time with great significance, "was never banished from the Village, he has been on a mission for the past seven years with Jiraiya and has finally returned home; I would think you would treat your fellow shinobi with more respect upon their return from such a long time away but clearly I'm ill conceived in thinking a Hyuga would have respect for anyone other than his clan."
Neji stayed quiet at this, his head looking down in shame; he had acted immaturely to the Hokage - dispossing great dishonor to his clan.
"Second of all; unless my information is incorrect of which I highly doubt, Naruto is taking Hyuga Hinata on a date later this week. Clearly you are misinformed that he had 'kidnapped' her, or somehow coated information out of her. As I believe their conversation was supposed to be private, and was of the more personally matter.. leading to as I said a date."
"However thank you for immediately informing me of an new arrival in village, even if your information is both late and lacking truth; but nevertheless in the event you do get promoted to Chunin in the coming months I will personally remember you have a inkling to be part of the village defense squads" Sarutobi finished with a large grin.
All three of the boys cringed at the thought of delivering messages, and sitting at the main entrance all day; knowing full well that their Hokage could assign such a job to them easily.
"Now if you don't mind we have important matters to discuss further; as you can guess a seven year debrief takes much time, and there is a lot to talk about" Hiruzen waved them off, dismissing the genin.
Neji and Kiba both bowed and went to leave the room, noticing Sasuke was still standing not moving; Jiraiya took notice "Uchiha your Hokage just dismissed you, did you think you should stay?" he layered with heavy sarcasm and distate which Sasuke again misinterpreted.
"Yes, I believe as Head of the Uchiha Clan I should stay for this debrief, my input could be most need-" he didn't get to finish as the air from his throat stopped, and he felt his back snap against a hard wall; he hadn't even registered he moved.
Everyone in the room stared wide-eyed as Naruto held the Uchiha by the neck against the far wall; I didn't even see him move Sarutobi thought admiring Naruto's speed.
"You will not disrespect your Hokage's direct command Uchiha, I don't care who you think you are. It's clear to me your clan superiority still runs deep in that blood of yours and think yourself better than others, I unlike the civilian council will not tolerate insolence." Naruto's voice rang like a shinigami, echoing throughout the room; even Jiraiya shook at the venom in his voice and it wasn't directed at him.
"Naruto.. let him go before he pee's in my office, I really don't want to have to replace the carpet" the old man responded, a small sweat running down his neck.
With one last look of anger, Naruto let go of Sasuke's neck who coughed a few times catching back his breath; without a word Sasuke stormed out the office not looking back - Kiba and Neji looked at each other and then quickly followed behind.
Jiraiya sighed loudly, "Naruto you know he's gonna go run to the civilian council and call for your head on a platter-"
"That's exactly why I did it, if you want me to become the Godaime Hokage then I want the earliest opportunity to put them in place and maybe show the shinobi side of the council how little I care about civilian opinions in shinobi related matter."
Both men looked over at him confused, Naruto sighed shaking his head. "He's gonna run over to them and call for my head, which will rile up the civilian council into aggressively over meriting their power - which in a 'shinobi' matter like one ninja attacking another, is none. During what I'm sure will be a council session, I will also bring back up the attack on myself and two civilians seven years ago, calling for a vote for compensation being provided by the civilian council. After the shinobi side more than likely vote yay, I will also call upon the vote for my establishment into the council under the Namikaze Clan; a right which none of them can disvow me of. So, sure Sasuke can call a council meeting; but he will be met with unfavorable conditions - only helping to further my goals" Naruto finished with a smile.
Both the older men gaped, Sarutobi stared surprised Kami Naruto is a tactical genius, he planned all of that in a few seconds without even having to know that the compensation law (for shinobi vs civilian unsanctioned attacks and vice versia) was placed during his time away from the village by myself and a few other clan leaders - instantly guaranteeing his claim.
"Well it looks like you already thought of everything, very good - now back to our debrief, I believe I have everything I need to know from Jiraiya. If there's anything I need elaborated, I'll call for either of you - but most of the events that happen in Kirigakure, Iwagakure, and in the Southern Islands should stay out of official reports and stay with the three of us in this room" both nodded knowing the seriousness of their leaders tone.
"Now, tomorrow I'm going to setup a sort of field test for your abilities Naruto-" he held up a hand as Jiraiya was about to cut him off "I believe everything you said Jiraiya, this is more for your fellow shinobi's benefit than myself; you are to report to Training Ground 2 at 0900 Hours tomorrow, be prepared for anything; you are dismissed." he finished smiling.
Naruto bowed, "Hai Hokage-sama" then flashed out the room making the two older men chuckle.
Jiraiya looked over at his old sensei; "He's so much like Minato it makes me sad everytime I think back to training him it almost hurts; I feel like Tsunade reliving memories."
Sarutobi nodded; "I sometimes feel like I disappointed Kushina and Minato; so to see him so strong, just like his father brings me happiness. Just remember not to be sucked into the past - a lesson I should taught Tsunade many years ago."
Jiraiya looked over at the hokage photo of Minato on the wall for a few moments then smiled and looked back at Sarutobi.
"So what's this field test your gonna have Naruto do, I think I have a few suggestions if you don't have anything in mind yet" he grinned devilishly.
"Oh I have a few ideas.." Sarutobi pressed a button under his desk; his ANBU Security Captain blurred into the room.
"Yes Hokage-sama" he curtly stated.
"Hiachi, have the following people report to me in one hour... " - Jiraiya grinned listening.
(A/N - READ AND REVIEW!)
