Full Summary: Naruto Uzumaki-Namikaze lost. He never thought as the Child of Prophecy and reincarnation of Ashura that he would lose his friends and the world he knew. Pretty much depleted of his never-ending chakra, Kurama tells him of a Jutsu that could send him back in time to stop the pain and sufferings of the people he knew and ultimately set the course of time right. Time Travel
Human Speaking/Thoughts
Demon Speaking/Thoughts/Jutsu
"True civilization is conceived of here in virile, action, and heroic terms: and it is on this basis that the elements which define all human greatness, and the real rights of people are understood."-JE
Chapter 2
The Falcon & the Swordsman
Uchiha Compound
Kana Uchiha, who just recently turned 18 a couple of weeks ago was a Chunin from the Hidden Leaf Village could say she was excited to be back home. Her older brother Naota a Jounin from the Stealth and Information retrieval unit also known as the Reconnaissance Division had just returned from a week-long mission from the Land of Water, along with her father Hino last night late. A well known and respected member of the side branch of the Uchiha clan. Kana was a little bit taller than the average female height, going on around 5'7 weighing in around 51kg. She had a round face with medium-high cheekbones and a blunted chin, her eyes were a little bit bigger but still small and softly curved, her irises the same onyx color as her hair had a black deep hue and small centered pupils. She had small, thin, flat eyebrows and a small, slightly curved nose centered between her cheekbones. She had a well athletic built body because of her job in Protection and Investigation Division which is essentially a trained village guard, she also, however, sported a voluptuous, curvy figure which many would not openly admit, would be jealous of.
She spotted the standard Chunin attire with a few modifications, which consist of the green Konoha flak jacket with three scroll pouches under her breasts, black pants with bandages around her right thigh and calves, black shin guards, black fingerless gloves that stretched to the top of her biceps, with metal plates on the hands, topped off with black metal elbow-length arm guards and black shinobi low-heel calf high boots. Her equipment included a kunai holster on her right thigh, pouch on her back-waist and a small Tanto blade on her left hip. On her right was her fellow squadmate and close friend Honami Inuzuka.
Honami was just walking Kana to her compound before leaving, but Kana invited her over because her brother had returned and she knew the two were close friends. Honami was a brash, energetic as any Inuzuka, but she could also be cool and level-headed which was rare in her clan. She also had an athletic and curvy built. She had hazelnut brown hair tied in a ponytail, with canine-like chestnut eyes, and purple Inuzuka fangs on her cheeks. She too carried the standard Chunin attire. She like most Inuzuka had a Ninken. Her Ninken was a large, smokey greyish-black dog with yellow canine eyes and a wolfish appearance named Grey Wind[A cookie for you if you can guess where this wolf is from]for his ferocious speed often leaving a greyish blur when fighting on missions.
They were walking down the now empty street, enjoying each other's company, laughing and telling jokes when Grey wind started to sniff the air and growl. They both stopped laughing for a second and looked concerned at the Ninken. Hinomi bent down on her knees and ruffled her companion's hair. "What's wrong boy? You smell something?"
It was then as they were right around the corner a smell engulfed her heightened senses and she smelt what Grey Wind was smelling, blood and death. She quickly reached for her kunai holster and glanced over to see Kana had done the same. They saw the Uchiha compound doors were wide open, plastered with fresh blood and the guards were lying dead on the floor. Kana could see through the doors the dead bodies of men, women, and children scattered across the compound. Limbs and other appendages were sprawled on the ground. The once great flags of the Uchiha cut and tattered to ribbons, walls covered with fresh blood belonging to the victims and the street lights once dawned to give the great clan light were shattered and broken. The place looked like the Gates of Hell with all of its death and bloodshed.
Anger and worry began to flood her mind and she had a sickening feeling in her stomach. She rushed in, her best friend followed close behind with Grey Wind sniffing the air. They raced past body after body until they nearly got close to Kana's house.
They were stopped dead in their tracks when a mysterious figure wearing a black cloak sporting a brown mask with one eye hole had just slit another male Uchiha's throat turned around and faced them, not even paying attention to the now lifeless body of the Uchiha now fallen on the ground leaking its lifeblood. He glanced over at the snarling Grey Wind and the clenching Hinomi. "You're not s'posed to be here Inuzuka. Guess I'll have to hide your body when I'm done killing you." He said voice filled with eerie coldness.
Hinomi growled in response and charged towards him kunai in each hand followed and her trusty Grey Wind close behind. "Go to hell you monster. I'll kill you for doing this to the village."
He stood emotionless and dodged both kunai attacks before activating Kamui as Hinomi's Ninken leaped onto him and sank right through him like he was made out of air. He then Hinomi wrist and shoved her backward following a powerful ax kick to her face, sending her sailing in the air and slammed into the ground hard. She let out a painful grunt and tried to stand only for the masked figure to appear suddenly beside her and delivering a kick to her kneecap coated with chakra and shattering it.
She yelled in pain as she fell to the ground hard. He then reached for some sort of white spear and charged with inhuman speed towards Kana. She stood frozen in fear and time seemed to slow down around her, she could only watch the incoming attack barreling towards her. Memories of her friends and clan flooded into her mind. She glanced to the side and saw Hinomi trying to stand up and screaming at her to move. She tried to reach in her pocket and pull out shuriken but she was too slow. She closed her eyes and waited for the weapon to pierce her but it never came. She heard a clang and opened her eyes to see a figure also shrouded in complete black clothing deflected the weapon with a kunai. Her eyes widened when her body finally processed what just happened and she saw the mysterious figure.
A Little Bit Earlier
Naruto raced across the Uchiha rooftops with one task, save the clan. Arriving at the compound he adjusted the cloak he acquired moments before when he zoomed into some of the shops and grabbed all black clothing including a large black cowl. as he got closer and closer inland he slowly started to get angrier and angrier as he witnessed the sheer carnage of dead Uchihas, murdered in gruesome and violent ways. He clenched his fist in a fury. 'Bloody bastards. Damn you, Madara. please let me save some of the clan.'
His thoughts escaped him when he heard screaming coming from down below, he stopped and gazed down below to see two females battling someone. One of them was on the ground holding her knee in pain and trying to reach her unconscious dog, while the other stood motionless, not even moving a muscle and staring straight at something. He moved his eyes to where she was staring at and he instantly narrowed his eyes. A man shrouded in black with a white mask. was charging at her. He was, however, staring straight at a hole, a hole in the man's mask. Even with a different colored mask, he recognized it anywhere. He muttered two words in anger "Obito Uchiha."
He immediately reached for his kunai holster and pulled out a kunai before lunging towards the helpless girl. His legs moved at an intense speed, fast enough to be in front of her, deflecting the spear with the kunai and snapping a roundhouse kicking into the masked man and sending him backward smashing into one of the houses. He glanced behind him to see the girl was shaking and staring straight at him as to try and say something but she was unable. He nodded a short greeting at her before turning his attention back to the man who slowly started getting up. Naruto dodged two kunai aimed at him from Obito before zooming towards him. He grabbed the man's wristing twisting it hard forcing Obito to drop his spear and blocking the other hand holding a white spear aimed for his chest. Naruto suddenly vanished and appeared behind the man, kunai held in a reverse grip, aimed at his throat.
Naruto leaned in and whispered angrily in his ear. "Look at this bloodshed and death, is this what you believe is true peace? Look at your clan, your family. You sick bastard, No more. It's over.. Obito."
At that last word, Obito stood motionless, mostly in shock but also in fear as was his right. The man knew of his goal and more importantly his name. No one knew he still existed. His one visible eye tried to gaze who the shrouded figure holding him in submission was.
Time seems to slow before he activated his Kamui and disappeared leaving Naruto holding a kunai at the air. Naruto not sensing his chakra turned his attention back to the two girls, the one who was almost skewered fell to her knees and was wiping the tears from her face.
He disappeared in a swirl of leaves before reappearing next to the girl on her knees. He bent down to put one arm under her shaking legs and the other on her back and walked over to the other girl. The girl now slowly moving again watched him approach her, she was unable to do anything except watch the man in black carry her to her friend. Kana tried to uncover who the man was currently carrying her.
Her efforts were futile as she couldn't see his face because of the hood and judging by his body built she could feel against her frame he was male, around young twenties and a ninja. She glanced over and saw her friends Ninken was still unconscious.
The other girl managed to stand on one leg and had picked up a kunai and had it aimed at the man carrying her friend bridal style. She knew she didn't stand a chance with her broken leg but she nevertheless stood her ground. The shrouded ghost did not react in the slightest to the hostility rather he stopped right beside her. To her surprise he just placed the girl next to her feet and knelt next to her. His hands started to glow and he moved it over her body, her body slowly started to recover from the flight or fight mode and he calms her elevated heartbeats. He then glanced up at the Inuzuka girl who had her eyes narrowed at him, watching him like a hawk. He pulled out his headband and she stared wide eyed at him. He then reached out and gently placed his right hand on her leg. His hand began to glow again and after a few moments she felt better and could move her leg slightly.
The mysterious man finally stood up, looked back at the two shocked females before disappearing via shunshin leaving a swirl of leaves to dance in the cold bloodlusted air before sinking back to the ground. Hinomi knelt next to her friend and stuck her hand out which Kana slightly smiled and grabbed before being pulled up.
"You Ok, Kana?" she asked.
"Yeah… Just a little shaken up that's all... Who was that?"
She wiped the dirt from her vest and shrugged her hands were still shaking slightly. "Dunno. The person had a Leaf headband so must be a Leaf shinobi or something. Let's get going though we have to find your family."
Kana nodded and wrapped her friend's arm around her own neck and helped her friend to Grey Wind who was now finally awake and bolted towards her owner and started licking her face. Hinomi smiled and began to pet him. They then made their way towards Kana's family. Kana clutching the kunai that the mysterious person used. She glanced behind her at the place where the man was last. She wanted to thank the cloaked figure for saving her life. She would have to find this person later.
Naruto was relieved that there was still some Uchiha alive but was still sad that he didn't save all of them, he planned to make sure he saved everyone, it was his duty as a former appointed Hokage and Child of Prophecy. He finally made his way to the Main heads compound. He jumped on the walls and landed in the backyard. Sneaking through the yard he finally arrived at the room that Itachi and his parents were in. The room was quite dark so hiding in there shouldn't be a problem. Itachi's parents were on their knees facing their backs towards Itachi.
Naruto crept in closer and waited. He could overhear a female voice talking which he guessed was Itachi's mom, Mikoto.
"We already know… Itachi."
It was then Fugaku who spoke soflty voice filled with sadness like he knew the fate that was knocking on his doorstep. "Itachi, promise me this. Take care of Sasuke."
Itachi already shedding tears responds with slow. "I will."
"Do not fear it. This is the path you have chosen. Compared to yours, our pain will end in an instant. Our philosophies may differ, but I am proud of you. You truly are a kind child."
Itachi visibly shaking and crying now raises his sword and prepares to strike from above. He brings his sword down but is stopped when a kunai comes soaring through and knocks the blade out of his hand. Itachi shocked shakily pulls out a kunai and responds with "who are you?"
Itachi was on alert, whoever threw it was strong, he had completely masked his chakra and made no movements. Not even with his ANBU training was he able to find his opponent, he was almost like a shadow. A figure finally steps from out the shadows and Itachi narrows his eyes. The figure was shrouded in all black even covering his face, he held a kunai in his hand.
The figure spoke in a gravelly voice. "Someone here to stop you from making a mistake. To stop events which should never have transpired, despite having a good cause."
Itachi spoke in a shaking yet cold voice. "If you know of the cause then you know why I have to do this."
The figure stepped closer and itachi stepped back slightly. "Oh, I do. Danzo has you the choice of having you kill the entire Uchiha clan and sparing Sasuke or not and allowing the clan to live at the cost of Sasuke's life."
Mikoto and Fugaku becalmed shocked, they never knew that Sasuke would be killed.
Itachi stared wide eyed. That information wasn't relayed to anyone, not even his companion Madara knew that. "H-How-How do you know that?"
The figure finally fully visible looked up at Itachi. Itachi took a step back in shock. The only thing visible from the mysterious figure was a large red dot with little black dots decorating it, glowing in the moonlight almost ominously. Itachi knew however it was a sharingan eye. Thinking it was another Uchiha or even one of Danzo's men he threw his kunai at he figure. It zoomed at deadly accuracy and inhumane speed towards the Sharingan figure. Before it reached the figure it was instantly disintegrated by surprisingly black flames. He faced the figure again and noticed his eye changed into that of an oddly shaped pinwheel.
Fugaku gasped. "The Mangekyo Sharingan, the pride of an Uchiha... I don't know of any other Uchiha who has the power."
"That's because I'm not an Uchiha."
Itachi then realized that if wasn't then he could only be one other person. "Are you Kaka-"
The figure interrupted him "No." was the simple answer given. the figure reached for his cloak before continuing to speak. "In fact. I am someone else entirely." He pulled off the cloak exposing his golden yellow spiky hair and a large blue eye next to his red and black one.
Everyone minus Naruto had their mouths agape and eyes nearly popping out their sockets. Fugaku spoke again. "Impossible. Lord Fourth? But you died…' almost whispering as he spoke.
The figure stood perfectly still. "What I'm about to tell you stays in this room. If anyone else found out about this. This village could be in more danger than it already is. I already sent shadow clones after you companion nearby, Itachi but it seemed he is not here. Can you do me this?"
Fugaku and Mikoto looked at each other with uncertainty before they both nodded. The red and blue eyed man looked at Itachi who then also nodded unsurely.
The figure sighed. "Alright. I don't have much time until Sasuke or the ANBU arrive. But no I am not the Fourth. I am his son Naruto."
Fugaku stood up suddenly fist clenched. "You think this is some kind of sick joke? Naruto is six, the Kyuubi container is in the orphanage right now. Who are y-"
Naruto interrupted him. Activating some of his left over chakra from the fox. He didn't have enough for his Kyuubi Cloak instead, he opted out by only changing his eyes and leaking some red chakra out his body. The compound seals flared up at detecting a Bijus chakra. "Now you believe me? I am in fact the future Naruto, time traveled to stop this unnecessary bloodshed and to fulfill a promise I made to my best friend, Sasuke."
Mikoto piped up at the mention of her youngest. She grabbed his hand squeezing it. "Sasuke? You mean our Sasuke? If you're truly Naruto from the future then is our boy ok? Does he grow up strong and does he live a good life? Please tell me he is." she looked into his eyes trying to gauge what she could about her sons future.
Naruto looks toward the ground in shame and sadness. "In the end he was. But for most of his life no he wasn't. Because of the clans' selfish act of the coup and it leading to this. I had to watch my best friend turn into something that I bet you wouldn't even think was your son. So much he was corrupted by the famous Curse of Hatred He was willing to destroy the village after he found out the truth. It was at the end thanks to Itachi he finally realized what was right."
Naruto winced as he removed some of the bandages to show a large scar and hole in his chest. "Because I have the Fox this healed, but it always popped up when I faced Sasuke for some reason. This scar was done by Sasuke as he send a large blade of lightning through my chest when he was twelve. I fought my best friend to the death at 12 years old. You don't know the pain it caused him to do this."
Fugaku finally spoke after that revelation. "We are sorry. But if this is the Hokage's Will we won't be able to defile it. We were willing to overthrow the Hokage. If this saved his life I'm sure Sasuke will be ok-"
Naruto punched a hole in the wall in anger startling the other three. "Ok?... Ok?! You think he's going to be bloody ok?" his voice almost reaching shouting levels as his hands clenched in anger.
"Damn You Uchiha's with your arrogance and... I just came from a world where everyone was dead. My friends, former Sensei's, someone I grew to love, even villagers who hated me at a child. All killed. After Itachi kills you. He blames himself for this, thinking he needed to be punished he brought the mantle towards Sasuke as his jury. He told Sasuke he killed the clan for power and that if he ever wanted eyes like his he should train and strive to kill him. You know what it did? That kind, happy younger side of Sasuke died that day. He was so much in pain that he snapped, the Curse of Hatred infected him stronger than before. He turned into a cold, uncaring, power hungry shell bent on killing Itachi. he was so into power he even became a rogue and joined with Orochimaru, my friends and I at the time fought hard to bring him back. At the end, we had a final battle at the Valley of the End where Sasuke nearly killed me. He removed all ties from the village that day saying they would slow him down, make him weak."
He didn't let them have a chance to speak as he continued on. He wanted them to know the pain they inflicted. "He spends two years teaming with that bastard before supposedly killing him. After that, he then decided to chase after Itachi and kill him. He eventually did and got his Mangekyou Sharingan after watching his closest bond die before him, He then learned the truth that Itachi did not kill the clan for power instead he was ordered to. Sasuke enraged by this wanted to destroy the village and joined the group called Akatsuki who were hellbent on destroying the world. It was only during the Fourth Shinobi War he changed, but he was still quite, cold, and not like the Sasuke you knew, and he never would. My friend became a cold, merciless murder because of this. I never want to see my friend suffer like that again."
Mikoto was in her husband's arm crying loudly while Itachi just stood there frozen tears forming in his eyes, his brother how could he do that.
Naruto looked at them with genuine sadness and shame. It shocked them to see such emotion on the child of their now deceased close friends. "I ask you, no I beg of you. There has been enough blood spilled tonight. Don't let there be any more. I stopped The masked figure from killing anymore Uchiha. There still some left, I can feel there chakra, it's not a lot but there are still some alive. Stop this Coup, thrive with what clan you have left. We need the allies, trust me the world is at stake, don't let my friend go down this path even more. Killing most of the clan will hurt him a lot, but having you guys, his parents dying will shatter him and my history will repeat itself. Stop this hate towards the Senju-type government. The Nine Tail attack was not you're doing but you are being played."
Itachi stood knelt next to his mother. "What do you mean? It's rumored that an Uchiha controlled the Fox."
"It's true, it was an Uchiha but one that removed ties from the Village. In fact, he was here tonight, killing Uchiha children and woman."
Itachi glanced up at the black cloaked figure. "You don't mean... Madara? Do you?"
Fugaku gave his son a quizzical look. "What do you mean Madara? Madara died at the Valley facing Hashirama. There is no way he's alive."
"A few days ago a man was scouting the village and I approached him. This was a few days before the coup et tat and I already had the task to take out the village. The man identified himself as Madara and told me he would help with the clan downfall."
Naruto interrupted the discussion. "That is true. He calls himself Madara but in reality, he isn't. Time to spoil the news Itachi, not even you know this. Madara survived the battle against Hashirama, he was weakened badly but he survived. The man who helped you was the one responsible for the Nine-Tails attack, in anger for not protecting the woman he loved. His name is Obito Uchiha, a student of Minato. He had survived the rocks that crushed his body everyone thought he had died but he didn't. He Was rescued by the actual Madara Uchiha. "
After seeing their shocked faces he continued on. "Madara then made a deal with him, Obito found his former teammates but saw his friend Kakashi Hatake kill Rin to save the village. Obito overheard why Kakashi did it. She was fused with the Three tails into destroying the Leaf. It killed him that Rin died. He then left before slaughtering all the Mist Ninja there, unlocking his Mangekyou in the process. Madara told Obito of a plan into creating true peace, he was disillusioned it no this plan and agreed to help Madera in any way. Madara passed everything he knew to Obito and told him the time to revive him. Obito working for a group called the Akatsuki, he acts like a newbie but in reality is the one pulling the strings even the true leader, Pain. The goal of the Akatsuki is to have all nine of the Bijuu but they won't do this for a few years. What Obito doesn't know is that Madara was the one who ordered the Mist to put the Three-tails inside Rin. This is only the surface of what is to come. I will explain everything when I can. But I need to know you will not continue this. Thousands upon thousands are going to die if I do not stop what I came for. Please, I beg you."
The room was dead silent before Fugaku finally broke the ice. "If what you say is true… Then we have no other choice. If we had known all this.. You have my word. I will try everything in my power to stop this. I will want those who are responsible for this to pay."
Naruto sighs in relief. "Thank Kami."
Mikoto and Fugaku stand up and hug Itachi. They stood there for a moment crying their hearts out, Naruto stood there awkwardly before Itachi told them goodbye. He walked over to Naruto and stuck his hand out. "I thank you... Uh... Naruto, you saved my little brother from something I would never wish upon him. If there is anything."
Naruto shakes it firmly. "There is. I'm going to be spying for a little bit but I'm staying in the village. When you leave here and report to the Hokage tell him of what transpired here today. Tell him. Unfortunately, you will still be branded as a traitor and hunted but at least the clan is safe. When you join Akatsuki I want you to relay the info you do to the Third that you do me. Everything. We need to be allies here, I thank you that you were willing to do the right thing. Now do it for the world too."
Itachi wipes away the tears from his face before nodding. "Understood."
He waves goodbye and disappears into the night.
Naruto turns towards the other two. Mikoto still crying runs over and hugs Naruto, who visibly tenses up, every signal in his body telling him to shove her off. Fugaku noticed this and stared at him in confusion. It's when he noticed the trauma in Naruto's eyes."Thank you. If we had known about all this... You saved my boy."
Fugaku pats him on the shoulder ignoring the tense body of Naruto. "Thank you, Naruto. Your parents would be proud. We are sorry about all this. Hopefully, we can make it right. If you ever need anything you need not ask, you saved the clan, us and our son and for that, you are always welcomed here."
Naruto who stopped tensing looked at Sasuke's father and snorted."My an Uchiha offering gratitude? I wonder if the world is ending. Oh, wait.."
Mikoto smiles and Fugaku scoffs.
Naruto suddenly hears faint panting and the close yelling of a child, he recognized that voice it belonged to Sasuke who was already by the house and running up to the door and Into the house. Sasuke finally made it to the room they were in, he froze in place unable to move he could only stare into the eye of Naruto, the Mangekyo Sharingan peering menacingly at him. It scared him and he backed away a bit.
Naruto turned around and faced Sasuke's parents he nods one final goodbye and then moves his hand in front of his face flashing a hand sign dispelling himself and disappearing in a puff of smoke.
Sasuke eyes snapped to his parents and all the worry and fear inside him washed away. He raced across the room and embraced his parents in a hug, crying loudly. Fugaku hugging Sasuke raises his eyebrows. 'A shadow clone? I didn't even realize... Naruto became strong with them. It amazes me that Minato's son, the Jinchuuriki becomes so strong that he was able to move, mask his chakra like that to the point where I couldn't even detect him, and to summon the nine tails chakra like that. From what he heard the other ninja said despite Naruto only being six, showed no signs of being a good ninja nor the battle mind he praised his son Itachi for. He must easily be a Jonin. If only Minato and Kushina could see how their son has grown up. Although the tense shoulders was a bit odd. Naruto would need some help or he would crack soon.'
Fugaku shook it out of his head, thinking on it another time would be wise and he smiled embracing Sasuke. He needed to find whoever was left and they needed to prepare if what Naruto said was true then a war is coming, a bloody violent one, of course discreetly, he was a ninja after all.
11 Months Later
In a small town near the village hidden in the clouds there stood a large building in the middle towering above the smaller buildings down below that were protected by large walls and guards alike. On the outside, it looked like a fortress. This was the fabled home of a wealthy businessman named Wei who also indulged in more illegal means of extortion, robbery, forgery, and even murder. Wei had currently just changed in his night time attire and getting ready for bed. Wei walked over and closed his protected windows before climbing into the soft bed and retreating into his dreams.
A shadowy figure lunged on top of one of the smaller buildings and was currently crouching inspecting the area, noticing the dozens of armed guards and shinobi patrolling on the walls and ground alike.
This figure clenched his fist a few times and breathed slowly. The figure looked up at the night sky. It was pretty empty save for a few stars and the peaceful moon shining its light down below. The setting looked almost peaceful which was ironic considering the violent event that would ensure.
'Interesting. Count 3 dozen guards on the right and back entrance and a dozen more on the main entrance. A few more most likely shinobi are patrolling on the walls. Seems my little scare tactic worked roughing up a few of his lieutenants for Intel. After spying on his compound for over 2 weeks the coward finally resorted to some more hired men. Shadows are my best bet then. East wall does not seem as well defended. Either guard must be on rotation or drunk. Quick and easy Naruto'
Naruto standing up began to make his way towards the east entrance. He had attained a new outfit that had earned him the infamous nickname Black Swordsman across the lands. The new outfit consisted of a large midnight tattered black cloak, and under the cloak Naruto weared black sleeveless ninja garb exposing his muscled arms, large knee-high boots, black matted shin guards, a tabi, forearm guards with 3 small triangle shaped blades attached to each of them, black fingerless gloves, and a black ninja mask that covered his face only giving the upper part of his nose and eyes visible with a red crest on top. (Basically Ninja Gaiden outfit of Ryu) He carried a kunai holster attached to his left thigh and 3 large pouches filled with shuriken, tags, wire, and other essentials attached to the back of his waist. He also had a large black Chakra Katana he had a custom built after completing a mission in the Land of Earth.
All and all he looked liked the personification of death wearing all black with his small red eye as the only visibility. That same eye would be the last thing many a foe has seen.
Naruto raced across the rooftop and chakra coated his legs increasing the speed. He lept off the rooftop and onto the wall in the compound. 2 nearby guards turned around and noticed the new presence and reached for their swords but were quickly silenced by deadly senbon needles coated with high levels of sleep induced ingredients.
Naruto keeping his head down quietly went over and grabbed the bodies dragging it into a nearby outpost. He quickly raced across on top of the wall with inhuman speed and stealth. He stopped in front of another guard currently sitting on a guard post. He snuck behind the guard before grabbing and wrapping his arms around the man's throat. The man tried to squirm free from under the grip but was unable to. Naruto squeezed and choked him unconscious before dragging the body away. He then dispatched 4 more guards around the east wall before getting rid of the evidence.
Naruto glanced and checked to see if he left any evidence of his existence before he lept into the building housing the high valued target. He coated his gloves and boots with chakra and began to climb to the floor his target was on. Finally arriving he lept on the ledge that accompanied that floor. He quietly opened the window with a lockpick. Hearing the satisfying Click he placed the lockpick back in his pouch. He then moved his hand to where his large black and red katana was before unsheathing it quietly. He held it in reverse with one hand as he used the other to hoist himself into the large almost pitch black room.
Once inside the room, his eyes immediately adjusted to the dark. He carefully checked if anyone was in the room before inspecting it. Although almost pitch black he could see the contents of the room. Some fancy paintings of landscape and lords, fancy couches and statues and sculptures. And a case of fancy weapons. Naruto could say this man enjoyed the decadent pleasures of man. He finally landed his eyes on a small lamp located on a small bed counter and then his eyes then moved onto a large expensive bed and more importantly the figure sleeping in the bed.
Naruto expertly snuck across the room making only the faint sounds of movement. Not that it really mattered the man was snoring loudly and would not have woken up. Naruto then stood right in front of the snoring man. He inspected the piggish and round bellied man sleeping. Naruto was almost disgusted with the state of the man's health.
Naruto then unsheathed his sword and pulled a kunai from his pouch. He then leaned over. Placing his hand on the loud man's mouth. The man now awake glances over and sees Naruto in all his shadowy ghost-like appearance. His groggy eyes now replaced with fear. He tried to squirm but Naruto held him firm.
With the other hand, he raises the kunai high and whispered. "For the sins, you have caused. Death awaits for no man it comes to us all, and tonight it claims you." The man tried to squeak a sound under Naruto's clamped hand. The squeaks ended suddenly as Naruto in a lightning fast motion slits the man's throat. The man chokes on his own blood for a few seconds before he let out a final raspy breath and went limp.
Naruto removed his hand from the man's bloodied mouth and leaned over and grabbing the golden blue ring from the dead businessman's fat middle finger. Proof of the kill. He then wiped off any fingerprints and anything that could give him away. Naruto then slashes the kunai in the air removing the blood from the blade before placing it back in his holster.
Naruto then turns around and climbs out the tower. Disappearing into the nightly shadows leaving the scene of the assassination.
Next Day
After the event, Naruto collected the bounty that was placed on the man's head. In truth Naruto was not out bounty hunting they were all small fish. Naruto had spent the last 11 months, however, spying, gathering Intel on Madara, Obito or even Orochimaru, and helping our debts. In truth, he was no closer to finding Madara, or the Akatsuki and that pissed him off to no ends. He had expected as much as they were masters of hiding and they did not formulate their plans until he was already 12 years old. He did help some old friends by changing the events for him. Such as killing the man Wei who had caused much distress to the Village Hidden in the Cloud. People knew he was corrupt and bounty hunters were hired to take him out but they were unsuccessful. He was usually way to fortified and only let his guard down until now. He did not, however, find the ruthless Gato of Gato industries. To save Naruto that chance of the mission would have been greatly helpful. But Gato had retreated into the shadows and Naruto with all his glory and skill could not find him. He couldn't blame him really. After it became clear someone was taking down businessman, lords, merchants and even former Shinobi those who were corrupt hid in fear and did not come out, he was also placed in the Bingo Book and had quite the hefty fine on his head.
Naruto became sort of a myth. After countless task of going out people searched for him, rogue shinobi searched for him to prove their skill and some villages send ninja to hunt him thinking he was a rogue ninja. Naruto always evades them however and only trouble he had were highwaymen and robbers stupid enough to rob a ninja. Naruto did not kill them. Despite his good nature and kindness being hardened and war-torn Naruto never really liked killing. He adapted to the world and thus understood the fundamental aspect of a warrior and ninja, kill or be killed.
Naruto was grateful he never had to learn this aspect until the very end. In fact, Naruto was one of the few of Konoha 11 to really never kill. Many civilians claimed Naruto had killed the Akatsuki member Kakuzu or even Pain, however, Pain gave his life to save the village and Kakashi was the one who ended Kakuzo. Pretty much right up to the war Naruto never killed anyone. He came real close but that was partial to the Fox manipulation into breaking the seal. He supposed after watching everyone you knew die in horrible ways and forced to kill during the war it became easier over time. But he only did it if it was absolutely necessary.
Naruto was now on the road and had currently walked off to the left heading towards a wooden bar. He spotted a large beefy muscled man with a full beard standing guard at the front holding an ax and a smaller muscled man with a sheathed katana strapped to his waist. Most likely hired to protect the bar from robbers. Naruto sheathed in full black nodded at them both and entered the bar. The eyed him suspiciously but he paid no heed to it.
Walking in Naruto inspected the occupants in the bar. A few civilians drinking in chairs in the middle. A few more eating and talking. He also noticed a few armed men and shinobi from different villages in the corner. It became dead quiet for a second as they all glanced over at Naruto notching his getup. Before resuming their conversations.
Naruto glanced over and saw there was a vacant spot to the far left of the front of the bar. Naruto walked over and plopped down on the seat.
An older man wearing all white walked over and noticed the black clad man sitting in front of him was not a civilian. He gained the nerve and walked over a glass and a cloth to clean in one hand. "What can I get ya, lad?"
Naruto glanced up and looked at the man and responded in a gruff voice. "Saki, thank you."
The man nodded and retreated to the back to grab a bottle. Naruto turned around to check the occupants who didn't seem to pay him attention and were instead preoccupied with themselves, Naruto reached down and prepared a kunai just incase.
He then reached his hand to his face and removed the front of his mask exposing his full face, minus the eye he always kept covered in black cloth. Naruto ran his hand through his hair and sighed. Even though he's been here almost a year he still hasn't gotten used to all the civilians and peace. Although he knew it would change soon, to the average civilian the Land of Lightning was rough and full of crime. To Naruto, it peaceful compared to the hell he suffered.
A few moments later a young pretty brunette haired girl walked in carrying a bottle of Saki and a small white cup. She glanced at him a bit fearful until she saw his face. He smiled at her with warmth and kindness and she stood shocked that a man shrouded in all black and mystery could show such kindness, she noticed he seemed to be around her age.
She smiles back at him before pouring the Sake into the cup. Naruto nodded a thank you and glanced down at the cup in thought for a few moments. Wondering about his next plan.
Naruto felt the lingering look and noticed the girl was staring at him. He wondered if he had something on his face but he noticed her blushed face and was told otherwise.
Seemed he had an admirer, she was currently inspecting his face noticing the differently shaped scars across, it didn't seem to gross her out or bother her. In fact, it increased his attractiveness somehow.
Naruto was not horribly disfigured or looked ugly, instead the scars he donned increased his aura of mystery and toughness. Naruto deduced that she seemed to be around his age, young, brunette and blue eyed. She was pretty and at the same time not too pretty. For working in an off the road bar she was in shape and still maintained womanly curves.
Naruto raised the cup and downed the contents ignoring her lingering looks. She finally gained the courage and asked him in a sheepish tone. "My name is May where are you from, stranger?"
Naruto glanced up at her and replied in a monotone response. "From a ways."
She could tell he was in no mood to talk but she pressed on. "I could tell you aren't from around here. I can also tell by your getup you must be some ninja. From which village to you hail from?" She pointed towards the mask laid on the bar table.
Naruto was about to respond in a kind tone until the man from earlier walked over interrupting the conversation. "Let's leave the nice young lad alone May. Come help me with the tables they need clea-"
Just then the doors flung open and a loud brash group of men walked into the bar. Naruto peered out the corner of his eye and narrowed when he saw the tough crowd entering, troublesome shinobi. Or they use to be as the symbol identifying them to the Village Hidden in the Cloud was scratched showing they denounced all ties to the village and became rogue.
The men started walking to the front of the bar and the lead man most likely the leader called out the man who helped Naruto out earlier. "Oi, you! Bring me a few bottles of Sake and anything special to eat."
The old man gulped before nodding and went in the back ordering the food to be made. The man shoved each other and laughed before they took their seats at the front of the bar. With all the seats filled up the leader was still standing. He walked over and stood to the right of Naruto who was casually drinking his Sake. Leaning his arm on the table he responded. "Hey, trash. You're in my seat."
Naruto not moving a muscle replied in a cool as ice tone. "Funny. I don't see your name anywhere on it."
A few snickers cake from the group of shinobi at the bar. Everyone else was dead quiet now watching and waiting to see what would happen.
The shinobi leaned in a little closer and Naruto with his tranines hightened senses could smell the alcohol and lack of hygiene on the man. "I'm not gonna ask you again punk. Get out of the chair or I'll remove you from it."
Naruto was about to respond when he saw one of the shinobi a brutish looking fellow had grabbed May around the waist and was currently getting a little too close to comfort. Naruto could see the fear in her eyes as she tried to squirm free. The old man came around the front and saw this. "Let my daughter go, NOW!"
The group of Shinobi laughed. "Oh, big words."
The leader straightened up and faced the defiant man. "Relax old man. My mate is just have'n a little bit of fun. He'll treat her well. I better hope my food is gonna be ready soon, we are getting impatient."
The girl screamed lightly as the brute grabbed her again from behind and roughed her up a bit. "Oh, she has a nice figure. Say boss can I keep her?"
The girl grabbed a bottle of Sake and slammed it on the man's head breaking and exposing all the contents of the bottle on the man's face. "Like hell you bastard!" She tried to run but the man was too quick and grabbed her wrist wheeling her back in his arms. "I like her. Got a bit of spunk to her."
The man's fellow comrades all laughed loudly. And even the boss smiled but not in a nice way. Just then the two guards from earlier baraged in weapons drawn. The shinobi at the bar raised there's as well.
The leader leaned on the counter and a grin formed in the corner of his lips. "Unless you two party crashers would like to be opened from waist up. I suggest you return those dull weapons back in there sheathed place and stand outside."
The two guards looked back at the old man and back at the shinobi. They knew how this would play out. Two trained civilians guards against 5 armed shinobi was not a contest. They sheathed their weapons in defeat and closed the bar door.
The leader then faced the other occupants in the room including the shinobi who all looked down and ate their food and chatted quietly: the leader clasped his hands together and faced the old man. "Well. That settles that. Now that food better be ready or we are gonna have to start entertaining ourselves. And you won't want that. Go check on the food. Your daughter is in good hands my friend will see to that."
A few more snickers went around causing the girl to squirm free. The leader then slammed his hand on the counter next to Naruto who did not move a muscle. "I'm not gonna ask again. Your butt better be off the chair In 5-"
Naruto downed another cup of Saki before facing him. "Or what? Kind of weak having ideal threats coming from a man who smells worse than he looks." Gesturing with the cup towards his dirty ragged brown pants, light blue ninja garb and black boots that were way too big for him.
A loud howl of laughter went around. The boss's face became red and he went from annoyed to angry as Naruto continued on. "And I'd appreciate if you remove your grubby hands of the nice young lady. Or I will make you."
The boss stepped back and squinted his eyes. "Why you little-"
Naruto interrupted him with a hand, placing the mask back on his face before facing the rogue leader. The leader now facing Naruto could see the seriousness and sternness in the black cloaked man. "Last chance." he barked.
The group of Ninja stood up off the seats and placed their hands on their weapons. Even the brutish man removed his hands and picked up a large heaving ax from May who bolted immediately behind the counter.
The leader turned around and faced his group and laughed before he in a quick motion removed a large knife from his sheath located on his waist and brought it down intended to strike Naruto. Naruto dodged the knife expertly and with lightning, fast reflexes grabbed the stationed kunai from earlier and jammed it in the leader's hand as it stuck on the table.
The leader yelped in pain and in one quick motion, Naruto with his other hand flat slammed the side of his hand into the man's throats hard. The man reached to grab his throat with the hand currently not stuck to the table but Naruto grabbed him by the throat and slammed his head hard against the side of the counter knocking him out cold.
The room was quiet when for a few moments after that. Everyone to shocked for words after what just happened.
A pin drop later Before one of the other guys a skinner looking fellow reached for his tanto blade and charged at Naruto who ducked under the blade smoothly before wrapping his arms around the man's throat and choked him unconscious. The body dropped face first and Naruto stepped over him casually.
Naruto then popped the muscles in his shoulders and cracked his neck before motioning them forward. Instead of coming at him one of a time the last 3 all rushed at him. Naruto rolled on the ground dodging five chakra coated shuriken which missed him and stuck to the wall behind him.
Naruto then blocked a punch from one of the Shinobi with his forearm before blocking a kick from the other shinobi aimed at his face with his leg. Naruto ducked under the third's grab before kneeing him in the gut. Naruto then brought his elbow down hard on the bent over man striking the man in the back of the head and rendering him unconscious.
Naruto bolted and slid over the second mans back before ramming his fist into the man's stomach and grabbing the same man who was behind Naruto and flipping him over and landing hard on the table and breaking it before punching him in the nose.
The last man nothing his fellow gang completely wiped out tried to flash through some haND signs and conjure a gust of wind but stopped midway when a Kunai was lodged inside his chest just under the ribs. The man dropped down on the floor in shock but he wasn't dead. Naruto looking over the sheer carnage walked over and forked money from each of the men's wallets. Before placing it on the counter. He looked at the shaking owner of the bar. "For the damage of the fight and for their order."
He then reached into his own pocket and grabbed a handful of bills and walked over and gently grabbed May's hand before placing the money in her hand. "And for the Sake." He said smiling at her. May finally coming back to her senses smiled in gratitude before leaning forward and gently removing Naruto's mask. Naruto stepped back instinctively but May stepped forward before kissing him on the cheek softly. "Thank you." She said as she placed his mask back on his face.
Naruto who was now red in the cheeks looked over at the tipped bottle of Sake laying on the counter grabbed it before dumping the rest on the unconscious leaders head. it trickled down the man's face and into his clothing. He snickered before walking towards the door and opening it and exiting the building leaving the bar dead quiet.
Naruto now casually walking back to the Village Hidden in the Leaves. He began to take in the scenery noticing the large trees in a row on each side like a wall protecting the long dirt road leading towards his destination Naruto makes his way to the front gate and stopped. Naruto noticed The two ninja guarding at the front gate were none other than the two that screwed with his genin team when he was 12, Kotetsu Hagane and Izumo Kamizuki two Chūnnin sporting the standard uniform.
Naruto casually walked up to the little outpost where the two ninjas were leaning back on a couple of chairs in boredom chatting. Naruto stands arms folded. Naruto inspected the two. He never really knew these two, even during the war he never talked with many other Chūnnin and Jōnnin from his time except his friends and Senseis. From what he remembered they were fighters that relied on each other often attacking at the same time covering each other's blind spots using weapons long range and close range instead of Ninjutsu.
Izumo had brown hair and dark eyes. His hair was combed down and covered his right eye. He was wearing the standard Konoha shinobi outfit and headband minus it being converted in a bandana.
From what Naruto could remember from the other ninja that he talked with during the war Izumo was the mature and responsible of the two more than his partner Kotetsu a tall spiky black haired and dark eyed ninja with a long strip of white bandage running across the bridge of his nose. He too also sported the same standard uniform. Kotetsu was the carefree and irresponsible of the two often trying to get out of his duties but at the same time is a loyal and dutiful shinob willing to die for the village.
At first, they continue chatting lazily not noticing him before Izumo nearly fell out of his chair noticing the large cloaked in black figure standing in front of him.
Kotetsu stuffs a laugh at his friends' semantics before looking in a serious tone at the figure. "Good day stranger."
Naruto looks up at the sky noticing the clear blueness minus a few white clouds and the hot sun glaring down at them indicating it was noon. "Indeed it is a good day," Naruto replies.
Kotetsu looks at Izumo with a raised eyebrow before facing the cloaked figure. "I.. er.. yes. State your name and business Sir."
"Oh come now I don't believe you ask every civilian that comes through these doors what their name and purpose for being here is."
Kotetsu replied more firmly. "We do when the figure is armed and dangerous and looks like a rogue ninja. Now name and Business." Now resting his hand on the blade located on his waist.
Naruto placed his hands out calming them down. "Relax relax I mean you no harm. My name is classified. As to why I am here I wish to speak to Lord Hokage and relay my report."
Kotetsu raised both eyebrows before slightly removing his hand from his blade noticing Izumo doing the same. "You're a ninja from the Hidden Leaves?"
Naruto nods pulls out his headband showing it to the two. "Sure am. Now as I was saying I'd like to be let in to report to Lord Hokage."
Izumo pipes in. "Very well then. Papers and identification, please. Will need to make sure you say who you are."
Naruto looks at the two before rubbing the back of his head. He knew he shouldn't have left Hokage's Office in such a rush without planning. "Very well." Naruto pretends to rustle in his pockets to bring out identification.
Kotetsu looks more alert and cautious as he watches the figure. 'Is this guy serious. No way he's that dumb to walk in the front gate if he's an enemy or a rogue ninja'
"Is there a problem sir?"Izumo replied.
"I don't have any identification or papers on me."
Izumo deadpans as he looks at his partner. "You're kidding? He's.. *sigh... they don't pay me enough for this job. Sorry, sir can't let you in then. Please step away from the doors."
Naruto thinks for a moment. "Wait wait wait. Hold up you can't. I'm from here I need to Speak with the Hokage."
"Is Lord Hokage expecting you?"
Naruto looks at the two before back up at the sky. "Yes, he is. Tell Lord Hokage his spy has returned and he wants to speak to the... Old Man"
Izumo mouth drops slightly. "Are you sure that's the message you would like to tell him?" It is no surprise The Third Hokage was kinder than most Kages of the other lands but even this. To relay such a message even an insult. If the Hokage did not know this man, an open insult would result in a fine or worse jail time.
Naruto nods.
Izumo faces Kotetsu before speaking. "Very well. I'll relay the message to Lord Hokage. Kotetsu stay here with the stranger. I'll be back momentarily."
Kotetsu nods and watches his comrade disappear in a puff of smoke. He turns to face the stranger expecting a kunai rushing towards him. He was not prepared to notice the figure was currently laying on his back on the dirt road watching the sky. He stared at him wide eyed until the figure turned around and looked at him. "You got anything to drink out here."
Kotetsu just stared at him with shock.
About 30 minutes go bye before Izumo returns more hastily than usual. Upon speaking with the Hokage learned that the Third was indeed waiting for his return and told Izumo to let him through the gates. He was still a bit anxious to leave a total stranger alone with his good friend. Although he knew Kotetsu could handle himself in a fight, the aura of the stranger was no ordinary ninja he wasn't some chunin or a regular Jōnnin. This figure was way more powerful. Besides they were powerful because they were a two man team, formidable as they often attacked relentlessly not leaving their enemy a chance to gain his or her bearings.
Running down the street he turned the corner he expected an altercation of some sorts or Kotetsu standing and staring at him alertly. He was not expecting them to be having a casual conversation and sitting together in the small wooden outpost.
After walking a little while he was near the outpost and could now hear and see them more closely. He saw the mysterious figure now with his cloaked hood removed could see the man's chiseled form and the upper half of his face that was not covered in the half-face mask. He was currently having a drink of water and sitting in his chair laughing with Kotetsu. They hadn't noticed him yet and we're still continuing their conversation. "I'm serious it was a hectic fight. Barely made it out unscathed."
Kotetsu leaned back and laughed. "Haha oh, man. You're kidding I know you are. You of all people getting in a fight with an ostrich."
"It was a ninja ostrich for one and I'm serious. You should have seen it. The ostrich would have kicked my ass six ways to Sunday."
Kotetsu chuckled before noticing Izumo return and was staring at the two. "Oi Izumo you made it. I was just keeping the stranger company, what did Lord Third say?"
Izumo still staring in shock closed his mouth slightly. "Uh… Lord Third said to let him in. He's good to go"
Kotetsu nods before standing up followed by the cloaked figure who grabbed the cloak and placed it back on including the hood. The figure nodded at Kotetsu who offered him a wry smile. "You will have to tell me more about it next time. Take care and welcome back to the village."
Naruto nodded thanks before walking past the outpost and into the village. "Wait," said a still heavy breathing Izumo. "Hokage-Sama told me to give you this." Izumo reaches in his pocket and pulls out a small white card with some small words on it. "Identification card to let you in should you be stopped again."
Naruto took a few steps backward before turning around and grabbing the card out of his hands. "Thank you" Naruto replied in a kind tone before walking away leaving a still Izumo and a smiling Kotetsu who walks up standing side by side. "Pretty interesting guy if you ask me" Izumo turns to face his best friend before socking him in the shoulder.
"Ow, what the hell was that for?" Kotetsu growled rubbing his shoulder.
"You were supposed to watch him and make sure he didn't try anything not fraternize and play Lookie-Lou with him." Izumo replied admonishing him.
"I wasn't playing. I watched him and then he began talking and one thing led to another. Besides this job is boring and I never get to meet any new people."
Izumo rolls his eyes. "And what if this 'new person' happens to be an assassin sent to kill our Hokage"
Kotetsu walks over and plops back on the chair leaning back with his hands resting behind his head he offered a half-assed smile at Izumo. "Then we would have dealt with it. Besides, I could have taken him"
Izumo scoffs before joining his friend and taking the seat that was occupied earlier. "Oh sure. And I just happen to be a Feudal Lord.
Kotetsu looks at Izumo. "Really? Me too! What an odd coincidence. Say which land do you hail from good sir?" Letting the sarcasm drip of his lips.
Izumo snorted. "So what you think of him." Directing the question to his companion who shrugged. "A bit of an odd one I can say. But I like em. He doesn't have some stick up his ass has a carefree attitude like myself. But something different about him."
Kotetsu leaks back soaking up the warm sun and relaxing. "I agree" as they both watch the figure walk towards his destination.
Naruto stands at the door handing his card towards the three guards standing at the door. He nods and lets Naruto pass who walks up the stairs towards the Hokage's Office. Noticing the paintings of the former Hokage and all that they accomplished. He stops and stares at a painting of his father. The legendary Yellow Flash the Fourth Hokage depicting him fighting the infamous Nine Tailed Fox.
Naruto inclined his head with respect at the painting. He flashed a quick sad smile at his father before walking towards the Hokage's Office. He knocks on the door twice waiting patiently. "It's open" he heard from behind the door.
Naruto opens the door slowly letting it creak slightly. He moved his first foot through the door and then his second before standing at attention in front of the Hokage.
The Third was currently leaning back in his chair smoking with his other hand resting peacefully on a large stack of paper on top of his desk. The Hokage smiled. "Good to see you again"
Naruto noticed the presence of the 6 ANBU hiding carefully ready to strike as fast as lightning should the opportunity come knocking. Naruto smiled under his mask. "Like wise, Old Man."
Naruto could see a small tick form in the Hokage's face and he could hear the breath suck in of the ANBU hiding. No one calls the leader of a Hidden Village an old man. Hiruzen stared at Naruto with a calculating look before laughing. Shocking the other occupants in the room except for Naruto. "ANBU. Please allow me some privacy with my spy. Turn on the privacy Seals as well."
A small gust of wind goes in the office followed by a small bang as the office door closed. Naruto now only sensing his and the Third Hokage's Chakra now.
Naruto walks over and sits down on the couch facing The Hokage who was watching him with a faint smile. "You are lucky I'm so nice. I could have you thrown in the Jail for calling me an old man, Naruto."
Naruto removed his hood, cloak, and masks revealing his entire face in front of the Hokage. "As if. You know those prisons can't hold me, I was running away from ANBU since I was six years old. Besides I'm just telling the truth... Say are those more wrinkles."
Hiruzen grins. "Easy now don't push it. So how did it go?"
Naruto smile fades slightly. "As much as I could expect. Any information I pretty much gathered was already known to me. Nothing much on Madara or his lackeys."
Hiruzen took a smoke of his pipe. "So what have you been doing for the last year. I doubt just sitting around being lazy eh, Black Swordsman?"
Naruto stared at Hiruzen with shock. "How did you know?"
"Oh please. I may be an old man Naruto but I make it my business to know what goes on around me. I know of your little incursions around the lands taking out Lords, businessman and former Shinobi."
"You sure would have surprised me. At your age information gets sometimes misplaced." Smiling with a faint trace of mirth in his voice.
Hiruzen rolls his eyes and Naruto continues. "And yes I was cleaning out the trash, taking out and helping so favors for friends."
Hiruzen sent a quick sympathetic look towards Naruto. "I don't think killing is what your parents had in mind Naruto."
Naruto looks at Hiruzen with narrowed eyes. " I learned long ago Hiruzen of how this world really is, how twisted and dark it is behind the curtains. Of the pain and anguish it brings. But I also have seen the good and hope in the world. I'm not the little kid I use to be and my life of peace changed the day my father sealed the Nine-Tails inside me. It's basic Shinobi Code 101: kill or be killed. But I Also learned long ago from Master Jiraiya that one of the greatest testament of a Shinobi is not knowing when to take a life, but when to save one. Two halves if you will."
Hiruzen raised his eyes. "When did the brash energetic child I know become so pessimistic and philosophical?"
Naruto shakes his head. "I didn't. I just have a very cynical sense of view on the world. Kinda changes your perspective on things when you're knee deep in shit during a bloody war."
Hiruzen nods. "A war I never wished the next generation would face. To see their innocence tainted by the greed of man. The same thing I never wished would show its face to you."
"I know you did old man. And I appreciate it. But I can't change what happens to me. I can only make sure this Naruto and the rest of the younger generation don't have to see the hell I saw."
Hiruzen grimaced before facing his eyes upon Naruto's firm expression. It really did pain him to see the ball of life that sometimes snuck out of the orphanage crying but yet always full of life when he sat down on his lap asking for a story and falling asleep in his arms. Become a complete turnaround of his future self. Even his posture is alert and ready for anything but at the same time tired.
He was still relieved though. The kind, humorous, and energetic side was still in him that he knew. He was brought out of his thoughts when he saw Naruto was leaning back on the couch. He shook the thoughts and buried them for a later time. "I take it you are here to stay for good then?"
Naruto opened his eyes and faced the Third Hokage. "Yeah. I won't find them now. I'll have to be patient and wait till they start making their moves."
"That's understandable. A lot has changed since you came back."
Naruto raised an eyebrow "Like?"
"Well, for instance, the situation with the Uchihas has calmed down. It was a rough first couple of months. Eventually, people found out about the massacre of most of the clan and its members. And including the Coup. Shinobi and Villagers began to hate the Uchihas the once great name of the pride. But as time went by the people slowly began to trust them. And then Lord Fugaku who formerly apologized in front of the entire village. I was shocked beyond belief. It was then decided that the Uchihas would stay instead of being outcastes out of the village."
Naruto raises both eyebrows in shock. "Fugaku-San apologized? The Head of the Uchiha's apologized in front of the entire village. Damn, I guess arrogance doesn't run as deep as I thought. Must have taken a lot of strength."
"It did. The Uchiha compound has been looked on more alertly now, Councils orders. But it has been pretty stable or as stable as it could be between them."
"That's a relief. What about Danzo?" Naruto clenched his jaw when his name left his lips remembering all the terrible things he did towards Captain Yamato.
"It's been the same with him. He's kept his presence at bay. But you were right ROOT has been massing for a while now."
"Damn bastard. We are gonna have to fix that soon."
"We will Naruto but remember politics. It won't make it easy unless valid proof of his endangerment towards the village is evident."
"I know. Can I be frank with you old man?"
Hiruzen still smoking his pipe nods. "Through all my years. I have learned to hold life with a positive note. But can I say, I have never attested something as boring and annoying as politics. Politics suck."
Hiruzen laughed letting the rumble in his chest out as he closed his eyes. "Aye, I'll drink to that. So what will you do now?"
Naruto thinks for a moment. "Well, I guess an official induction into the village would be good. No point skulking around the village like some shadow."
Hiruzen nodded. "I guessed as much. Question is what. I know you will be a ninja obviously. But I was wondering if you wanted to do the job I Assigned you?"
"Depends on what it is. I hope you aren't assigning me gate duty."
Hiruzen chuckled before waving his hand. "No of course not. Would be a waste of your talents. I was thinking more along the lines of.. say, ANBU Black Ops?
Naruto raised his eyebrows. "ANBU Black Ops? You think I'd be a good fit? I mean I never even became a Chūnnin or a Jōnnin and not to mention they look for only the best of the best."
"Of course from what you told me of your skill set and my own digging since I know you would never lie Naruto but seeing proof and hearing are two different things. Your reputation as the Black Swordsman is uncanny. I never thought I'd see it especially since my report of your younger self now enrolled in the first stages of the academy to most show no talent or natural skill as a ninja. Especially in the academic accords. However, your knack for espionage, intelligence gathering, reconnaissance and hate to say it, assassinations make you easily ready for ANBU. So will you do it?"
Naruto thinks for a moment. "If won't hurt gets me up on the open out of the village as well. But what did you have in mind? From what I gathered there are many divisions of the ANBU. I hope you weren't putting me in the Signalling and Communication Core?"
"No, I have an idea of what you would be. The choice will be decided by the head of the ANBU. But you're in?"
Naruto nods.
"Good. Now it's time to give you a proper background. The Village Elders and Danzo, as well as most Shinobi, will be suspicious of your new arrival. A mask of mystery will certainly draw their attention. And I don't know how long we will be able to keep this under wraps." Hiruzen said sighing.
"But nonetheless. As for now, we will say any traces of your former past was destroyed in risk of tying you back to our village. Plausible deniability. This will include ninja academy as well as basic medical records. You were a spy of mind sent deep into enemy territory and you have only recently came back to the village. We will have to fix it as there are some holes here and there but it should be passable. Question is what will your name and appearance be? As I can't go calling you Naruto and your blonde hair, whiskers, and blue eyes are a dead giveaway as you are probably well aware."
Naruto nodded sadly running his hands through his vibrant yellow hair. "Of course I understand. Mm… a henge should be good enough, i'll cut my hair and dye it as well as extra precautions. When I go for a physical assessment. I should be able to pass the basic test."
Naruto closed his eyes and concentrated his body began to shift back to the original henge Naruto wore during the hospital. His hair grew a dark chocolate brown and less spiker, his visible eye changed into an emerald green shade and his whiskers disappeared leaving only his original facial scars; 3 small claw mark on his cheek and a small cut in the shape of a blade going vertically down his eye. His body shape grew taller but still kept the same physically fit shape. His tattoos and scared still stayed on his body, he didn't want to remove the memories that he clung onto.
Hiruzen nodded smiling. "Better. Now for a name? We should be able to forge and create basic records of your existence. You have a name in mind?"
Naruto thinks for a moment. "Mmm. I could use the one I had when I infiltrated the Land of Stone during the early stages of the War when a warring faction had joined ranks with Madara. Kensei Hayabusa."
Hiruzen looked at Naruto upon realizing the translated meaning. "The Falcon and the Master Swordsman? Interesting name but I guess that will work. Very well you will be Known as Kensei Hayabusa. Now I'll send your uniform to your housing but what mask would you like. We have Jaguar, Hyena, Monkey, Fox, Spider-"
Naruto thought for a moment. 'Fox how... fitting.' "Fox sounds like a good one," Naruto replied smiling.
Hiruzen notices this and gave Naruto, no Kensei a calculating glance. "You sure Nar-Kensei? I mean."
"Yes, it works. I'll take Fox and I guess you were gonna ask me next for a Codename during the field. I'll take Kitsune."
Hiruzen nods. "Very well. I officially induct you in Kensei you will be known as Kitsune."
Kensei now standing straight with his hands firmly at his side. "Understood. What are your Orders Hokage-sama" replying a crisp military like tone.
Hiruzen instinctively straightened forward. "At ease. Give me a couple of days to get the records and everything set and then I'll arrange an official assignment of your skills. I should be able to get you to bypass most of the test and what not. Now for a physiological assessment, I will ask they don't go digging in your head using an interrogation, but they will ask you questions. These questions are designed for experienced ninjas of course but ones that aren't war veterans and survived the hell that comes with it. Naruto I know you won't have it any other way. I saw you would protect the village with your life no matter what. But I must ask. Are you fit to be in missions outside of the village. What I mean by that is, can you do missions and won't crack under the stress or traumatic experience? I pull out most ninja within 5-8 years in the ANBU with regular checkups and I'm sure you can guess how a lot of them are in these high-risk missions."
Kensei remembered how Kakashi was before he was a sensei how cold and distant he was. "I understand the risk Hiruzen. I won't put my fellow men and women at risk nor the mission. I will accomplish it to the best of my abilities."
Hiruzen sighs. "Very well. You can rest in sleep quarters I have here in the office. I'll give you your payment and everything shortly. Right now you need some rest. I can see how tired you are."
Kensei nods. Very well. Thank you, sir." Hiruzen hands Kensei the keys and directions to where it is before Kensei bows and exits the room. Hiruzen drops the privacy Seals and already notices it's around dinner time. As the ANBU dive back into their original positions leaving Hiruzen to groan and work at his never-ending pile of paperwork. Kensei's words ringing in his ears. 'Politics suck'
Hiruzen laughs before he began to jot down information about his new arrival.
Stay Tuned For Chp 3!