Pretty!

by Piro-san

Rewrite of my first FanFic! Naruto is an intelligent and pretty child, when a chance encounter reveals many secrets it unknowingly causes a ripple effect that unleashes a storm that will shake Konoha and the Shinobi World! Feminine!Naruto! Smart!Naruto! Bloodline!Naruto! Godlike!Naruto! Elements from The Avatar Series! Naruto x Futa!Itachi! NOT a Yaoi. Rated M!

4. Chapter 4

..::..

At last, we've finally arrived at the next chapter of the rewrite. I apologize for the wait; I'll do my best to update sooner next time. On another note: please bear with me for a little bit since my laptop is starting to die. It will need to be replaced … and soon at that.

Not much in the way of notifications except to inform you all of the newest addition to my profile page. I've now included an update guide that will be updated as I go … it will help you, the readers to know where the next chapter will be ready.

Other than the usual thank you for reviewing, and please forgive me for not responding to all of them … here we go.

..::..

DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN NARUTO OR AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER!

..::..

"Ramen" – Speech

'Ramen' – Thoughts

"Ramen" – Biiju/Summon Speech

'Ramen' – Biiju/Summon Thoughts

"Ramen" – God/Deity Speech

'Ramen' – God/Deity Thoughts

..::..

Fire Daimyo Masahiko Shinji was not usually an angry man, but since he had met and adopted Naruto Uzumaki-Namikaze, he found himself furious with the current circumstances. His concubine wife, Yuki Kaguya-Shinji was comatose, and possibly brain dead – murdered at the hands of an apparent missing-nin that once hailed from Kumo, or the Village Hidden in the Clouds.

This missing-nin was caught torturing his son Naruto for being too pretty and had attempted to kill her for interfering. It didn't go so well, as Naruto did … something that saved her life, but what he did was beyond their understanding. As if that wasn't enough the man had a partner that still swore allegiance to Kumo and its leader Ay: the Sandaime Raikage.

Ay, the Sandaime Raikage was a man that had already been responsible for the attempted theft of the Dōjutsu Kekkei Genkai, or Eye Bloodline known as the Byakugan. It was also known as the 'All Seeing White Eye' and belonged to the Hyūga Clan of Konoha, and was one of the San Daidōjutsu or Three Great Eye Techniques.

The other two of the San Daidōjutsu were the Sharingan of the Uchiha Clan and the Rinnegan, whose origin was believed to be from the Sage of the Six Paths himself.

The Sandaime Raikage issued the order under the pretense of an alliance in the form of a treaty. Under the guise of an emissary, a chosen Jounin would infiltrate and kidnap Hinata Hyūga, the eldest daughter of the Clan Head and Main Family; a man named Hiashi Hyūga. His plan backfired however when his Jounin was killed whilst escaping Konoha by Hiashi himself; Ay made the best of a bad situation though and demanded the immediate surrender of Hiashi to Kumo to face punishment for the death of a dear family friend. The Hyūga Clan had their way in the end when Hiashi's twin brother Hizashi Hyūga, knocked his brother out and took his place.

Hizashi Hyūga was born not even five minutes after his brother Hiashi and was condemned to live in the Branch Family as a result. The Branch Family were branded with the Kago no Tori no Juin or the Caged Bird Curse Seal. It was a seal that was barbaric in design, one that allowed the Main Family (who were free from being branded), to control the Branch Family using a single hand seal. In doing so, it inflicted an unfathomable amount of pain upon those that were branded, as it attacked the brain cells of the Branch Family member through the seal.

Prolonged exposure from its affects caused permanent brain damage to the Branch Family members and was believed to cause the Branch Family members to die much younger and much quicker than their Main Family counterparts. The Caged Bird Curse Seal was implemented long before the Hyūga Clan had joined Konoha so they were exempt from submitting the design itself to the Village and as far as the Village knew; it was designed to stop the theft of their Dōjutsu by destroying their eyes and all traces of the Curse Seal itself upon their deaths, which was also true but still not the whole truth. Hizashi, who pretended to be Hiashi, had the honor and the pleasure of literally spitting in the face of the Raikage before killing himself and with him; his eyes.

The Sandaime Raikage was not a happy man but was unable to do anything about the situation and silently stewed in his anger.

If that wasn't enough, in his youth, it was the same man that suggested and had a team attempt to kidnap Naruto's biological mother Kushina Uzumaki as a gennin for the Uzumaki Royal Family's famed Kongō Fūsa or Adamantine Chakra Chains. That plan was thwarted by Minato and the rest was history; Kushina and Minato fell in love, had Naruto and then the events that unfolded shortly after led right back to this moment.

Masahiko sighed tiredly and looked dejectedly towards the picture of Yuki on his desk, it was ironic to him; they'd finally adopted a child but then Yuki was taken from them, whether it was temporary or permanent, before they could have their child. Yuki had been starting to get sick lately and she had been excited to see the healers that were coming today by appointment. They were no longer needed for Yuki but they were still going to be summoned to check on the adopted child of the Daimyo, they stayed and proceeded to give Naruto a full check-up under the critical gaze of Asuma Sarutobi who had taken it upon himself to never let Naruto out of his sight.

'I guess in the end they were needed after all' he thought as he let out a heavy breath; he was thinking about Naruto and what the healers had said earlier that morning.

The healers had informed him that Naruto was in perfect health, aside from being malnourished of course but they totally disregarded any mental issues that Naruto may have been suffering from. They did however recommend a special diet and with a look of greed offered their services to stay on permanently for a fee of course. They had been escorted out quickly after that and Masahiko had stormed into his throne room and began to brood while waiting for Chiriku to return with the Kumo ambassador.

He felt tears prick at the corners of his eyes and he struggled to regain control of his emotions, he would weep in private for as cold as it seemed, those living took precedence right now; his wife and child needed him … and the thought of venting on an ego-bloated idiot of an ambassador was awfully tempting as well. The Daimyo was brought out of his thoughts by the booming sound of the door slamming open and for said idiot to swagger into the throne room like he owned the place and Masahiko gritted his teeth in fury; he would greatly enjoy this.

"Ah, your excellency" the ambassador spoke weirdly; why was he talking like that? Oh, this was the new ambassador and he obviously thought that speaking through his nose made him sound more important, but that rude tone had to be dealt with. "My name is Yuu Takahiro and I am the new ambassador of Kumo for the Land of Fire."

The ambassador looked like he had just gotten away with murder if the smirk was anything to go by and Masahiko snapped. After standing and bringing himself to full height for extra intimidation, he sent a healthy dosage of KI across the room and glowered at the idiot in front of him.

"YOU VILE, DISTGUSTING LITTLE SHIT-STAIN!" His booming voice echoed around the room causing him to appear even more terrifying than before and the Fire Daimyo's KI washed over the room so quickly and with such density that even Chiriku, who stood by the ambassador shivered. "How dare you address me so callously vermin, I am not some common noble that you can puff yourself up and lord over; I AM THE SOVEREIGN RULER OF THE LAND OF FIRE! I AM FIRE DAIMYO MASAHIKO SHINJI, SO KNEEL DOWN AMBASSADOR! KNEEL DOWN BEFORE YOUR SUPERIOR!"

The man shook in fear and hit the ground faster than even some shinobi could manage, all the while blubbering and stuttering out apologies to the Fire Daimyo. Masahiko internally smirked at the man in front of him while outwardly maintaining his KI. He didn't even bother to hide the distain and visible disgust for the man in front of him.

Narrowing his eyes, Masahiko continued, "You shall address me properly in MY court vermin, for I am done playing games with you and your Lord, the Daimyo of the Land of Lightning. You WILL both answer to my demands from this moment forward, or you will face what will happen when I decide to no longer allow trade or commerce between our nations."

The man seemed to gather his wits and retorted with a haughty sniff and a victorious reply of, "You can't do that as you don't even control half of the commerce or trade between our nations."

The ambassador looked up with a smirk only to piss his pants at the downright savage grin that had appeared on the Fire Daimyo's face.

"You and I both, are well aware of the fact that I only control 25% of trade and commerce, true …" the Daimyo conceded and spotting a smirk from the ambassador he paused but then his grin turned vindictive, " … but I now also have access and control to the Uzumaki Royal Family's assets!"

The ambassador blinked and then laughed, "Impossible, the last heir died almost four years ago in Konoha. You are only a steward of their accounts, you can't access them" he spat out Konoha like it was a foul tasting thing, and thought he'd put the Fire Daimyo in his place, when he was interrupted from speaking further when the Fire Daimyo started laughing.

It was a quiet chuckle at first, but it grew louder and then louder still, it grew until it bordered on hysterical and even crazy. The ambassador gulped and started sweating even more, this shouldn't be the response he was supposed to get.

Eventually the laughing died down but the tension and KI remained as thick as ever.

"You will not speak down to me vermin, I am aware of what you were made to believe," the Fire Daimyo spat out harshly with a glare. "The fact remains though that I have got control and pardon me if I'm wrong, but I believe that the Uzumaki Royal Family currently controls 65% of trade and commerce for the entire Elemental Nations, it was 50% but what kind of a steward would I be if I failed to increase their holdings and my position?"

The ambassador's sweating started to get worse and he tried and failed to remove the horrible lump in his throat. "T-then t-that m-means that … *gulp* … it's true, an heir still lives!"

Masahiko allowed his vicious smirk to grow, if that was possible and added pressure.

Masahiko knew he told Naruto to wait a year before any contact could be made but he lied, and he did feel guilty about it but he was concerned about his child's safety and it seemed that now, after everything that had happened, he could release the identity without anyone else interfering. That also meant that Konoha and Hiruzen would know within the hour but it was time, and even Hiruzen had no claim any further as legally there was a time period of a month in which to file a protest and that had passed before even arriving in the Imperial Capital.

"Yes … it's true and now that brings me to another topic of interest, the heir that has now placed FULL control of the Royal Family's assets over to me until he or she reaches maturity is now also my heir apparent until such a time that I may be blessed with a child of my own."

Though Masahiko wasn't going to take another concubine, he had decided that Yuki would be the only other woman in his life and if Yuki didn't wake, both he and his first wife Kaoru weren't likely to move on from this tragedy. Looking to the ambassador he noticed that he looked like he was going to pass out 'Now for the final nail.'

"That means that if I have no heir of my own then upon maturity the entirety of the Fire Country's Political and Economic Power is transferred to the sole heir of Uzu's Royal Family … and that means that he or she would control a total of 90% of the Elemental Nation's Economy! I'm sure you're smart enough to know that Uzu's Royal Family already controls Konoha's Political sway with 90% of their power as well as controlling ALL treaties as well."

Yep the man was swaying and seemed dangerously close to passing out now and Masahiko wanted to return to his wife and child.

"In conclusion vermin I hold all of the cards and I am tired of your insolence and disrespect to me and mine. Tell your Daimyo that I demand his presence at his earliest convenience, which I'm sure won't be long after you relay this message, but also inform him that if he sends you back I will kill you and close all trade effective immediately. NOW LEAVE MY PALACE AND CITY SWINE!"

The blubbering man actually managed to run out of the room and he only tripped over himself five times before making it to his carriage.

"How was that Chiriku?" Masahiko asked smugly

"M-my Lord Daimyo?" Chiriku asked shakily, then gulping he continued "Sir … remind me never to piss you off!"

They shared a laugh before the Daimyo turned serious once more.

"Chiriku, inform Asuma that his new mission is to guard Naruto 24/7 from now on until we can assign him a suitable dual guard squad, it will work well since he will be training Naruto starting tomorrow anyway since Naruto unlocked his Chakra Chains last night." The Daimyo ordered with authority.

Chiriku nodded but paused once he was called once more by the Daimyo.

"Have you managed to make contact with the people I summoned?" he questioned with an intensity backing his voice, he was dead serious regarding this matter.

"Yes my lord, we made contact with both Jiraiya and Tsunade but both declined to respond to your summons, they believe that you weren't serious or thinking straight when you ordered them to the Capital."

Masahiko Shinji frowned and he adopted a regretful look before taking a deep breath and looking towards Chiriku once more. He then activated a seal that transcribed his official laws and orders directly to the archives, the Shinobi core and Konoha.

The Seal worked as a medium. His voice would be converted to word and then, that word, once authorised by his Seal as Fire Daimyo, would be transmitted to the aforementioned locations for the sake of recording his ruling.

The only concern of the Daimyo was that, as the Laws were instantly transmitted to Konoha – they would know immediately, and that added to their discovering his precious Naruto's location, meant that they would know within hours at the earliest, or a day at the latest.

He had no choice … the two remaining Sannin needed to reminded of their oaths as Shinobi of Hi no Kuni.

"Then on this day and by the Order of Fire Daimyo Masahiko Shinji, I do hereby strip the Toad Sage Jiraiya of no Clan, and the Slug Sage Tsunade Senju of the Senju Clan, of their travelling rights until such a time as they obey my summons. Their accounts and moneys are also to be suspended and in Jiraiya's case his publisher will be fined if he continues to print. Further disobedience will see his publisher tried for treason if he distributes any works by the Toad Sage until further notice."

He took a breath and licked his lips before continuing.

"If contact is made and further ignored I brand them …" he paused and let out a heavy and pained breath, "… I brand them as Missing-nin and order a Kill on Sight command to all shinobi with a posted bounty to be announced after a two week period. If they further disobey my summons after this two week period, then I shall mark them in the Elemental Nation's Bingo Book with an increased bounty befitting their titles, rank and skill. I have spoken and my words are now law; I now stamp this transcription with my official seal"

Masahiko dipped his ring in the special wax and pressed it down on the scroll hard, "So it is done and so has my word become law."

Chiriku gasped and glanced to the Fire Daimyo with a look of confusion. He refrained from speaking his questions out loud though, after seeing the raw pain on the Daimyo's face. It was clear that he was greatly unsettled with his order and understanding dawned on Chiriku's face; he then understood that the ruling of his Lord was mostly there to be a warning, but now that it was stamped it would be difficult to overturn, even if it was the Daimyo who ordered it in the first place.

"Go and relay my orders to Asuma," the Daimyo began and after a sigh continued, "I have decided to aid in the search of replacements to my guardians personally. I will have them take the oath just as you and Asuma have before them; until such a time I will have the Fire Temple Monks substitute as security detail."

Chiriku nodded with approval and understanding. The monks from the temple had grown complacent and this would reignite their passion and way of life. Their appointment to the Fire Daimyo's security detail would also encourage them to train harder as well, so it was with a smile that he nodded his consent and left to fulfil the orders of his leader.

..::..

True to Masahiko's assumption, Konoha did know within the following hours of what occurred between the Kumo ambassador and the Fire Daimyo, and it is with this that we find the Hokage. Hiruzen was pacing the length of his office whilst trying to soothe his oncoming migraine, he looked to the Jounin and his advisors Koharu Utatane and Homura Mitokado that he had assembled to discuss the issue at hand.

Naruto was with the Fire Daimyo, the worst possible outcome for Konoha, as the child would be well aware of his heritage by now – and that spelled trouble. If Naruto had become aware of his heritage and the political power that he wielded, then Konoha could be ruined.

Just as the Sandaime was about to address their issue, he was interrupted by something that didn't make their situation any easier: the transcription attendant had burst into his office and shakily handed the new stamped law from their Fire Daimyo.

Hiruzen paled and his advisors soon followed after reading the document, the Jounin looked to the Hokage in confusion. After the Jounin were informed of their newest Law, they all waited for the dismissal to follow out the will of the Daimyo. Hiruzen nodded tiredly and they burst out of the office at top speed to notify the surrounding outposts.

"We need to contain this Hiruzen." Homura stated instantly, "Though I believe the entire Village will know within the day."

"Indeed," Koharu agreed.

"It'll be too late to contain anything," The Sandaime replied, "Just do me a favour and retrieve a Courier-nin … we need to get Naruto back!"

True to the comment of the Elder, the talkative Shinobi had already begun to spread the word through the streets, soon the entire village knew the news and many paled like the Hokage before them.

The child that they had tormented and called 'abomination' and 'demon brat' held that much power? They knew they were screwed and many began praying to the previous Hokage for help and guidance; ironically most prayed to the Fourth Hokage for aid in this time of confusion and crisis.

..::..

Itachi Uchiha had been searching for her younger brother Sasuke when she learned of the news and she let out a sigh, 'It was only a matter of time I suppose, the village has had this coming and now they're screwed.'

She spotted Sasuke and gave a small smile when he noticed her presence. He still called her big brother but it didn't matter, as long as Sasuke remained this carefree and happy, she was happy.

Sasuke ran up to her and pulled on her arm, trying to drag her in the direction of their home; Itachi smiled and poked Sasuke's forehead causing him to flinch and then pout.

"What was that for nii-chan?" Sasuke mumbled rather pitifully.

"It's time to go home but you don't need to pull my arm off," she replied curtly, his pout became more pronounced but she poked him again, "Come on let's go home now … my foolish little brother."

Sasuke perked up at that and after another pout at the 'little brother' comment, he ran ahead of his 'older brother'.

..::..

Kumo's Daimyo, a man named Satoshi Takahiro was not pleased at all. His youngest brother had returned from The Imperial City of the Land of Fire and had informed him of the outcome word for word.

Satoshi had started to sweat by the end; he had no choice but to answer the summons of the Fire Daimyo and something in the bottom of his gut told him that he was going to be more trouble. He had received word about the Fire Daimyo's concubine's condition and he had a bad feeling that some of his ninja force was involved.

And if that was the case then he could kiss his dignity goodbye. He, along with every Daimyo knew the man was a political nightmare to face under normal circumstances but if what his youngest brother was indeed true, then he was now going to be the devil incarnate and this devil's concubine was just attacked … he was definitely in over his head and he knew he was fucked.

..::..

Asuma stared at the unresponsive child that just sat there staring at nothing in particular, this was his fault.

If only he had stayed at his post instead of rushing off to find the breech in security then Yuki would still be alive, mentally at least – and Naruto would still be smiling that beautiful smile of his. The Daimyo had told Asuma that he was not to blame, that he was doing his job by checking the security breech but it didn't diminish the guilt that bubbled in his heart.

Movement caught his eye and he noticed a pure gold chain emerge from Naruto's left shoulder, it curled around Naruto almost as if it was alive and trying to comfort the boy with a hug. Naruto allowed the tiniest of smiles shine through as he petted the chain while he mumbled to himself. Asuma was unable to make anything out but it was if he was conversing with someone, or more appropriately something.

Could his Chakra Chains be sentient? Impossible, Kushina's were bendable to her will but then again, her chains only subdued her victims. Naruto's chains could attack and kill in a rather ruthless manner. He was almost hypnotised by the chain's beauty and unbeknownst to Asuma, he began to sway his head to its rhythm.

He was pulled from his thoughts by Chiriku who then proceeded to inform Asuma of everything that had happened but one thing stood out to him; the Daimyo wanted Asuma to guard Naruto 24/7?

That meant that the Daimyo was serious, he didn't blame Asuma.

Asuma gulped and walked over to Naruto, he kept a close eye on the chain though because as he approached it shifted to face him, and eerily enough it followed him approach like it was watching him. Asuma shivered and turned his attention to Naruto once more, he knelt down and gently lifted the effeminate child's head so they could make eye contact.

"Hear that Naruto? We're stuck with each other." He chuckled before continuing, "I will train you to be the best Shinobi in history, I swear to you now upon my blood and my very life that I will stand by your side through thick and thin and support you."

Asuma spoke with such passion and finality in his voice that he caused something to move Naruto deep within and Naruto smiled that tiny smile.

'Progress!' Asuma cheered mentally.

"Arigatou Asuma-san," it was quiet; almost a squeak but he heard it and he too smiled at the boy in front of him.

"Uh-uh Naruto … that's Asuma-sensei now!" Asuma chuckled, he liked the sound of that … sensei … he could handle training a child right?

..::..

Tsunade Senju was not a happy woman right now … the Fire Daimyo had ordered her to the Capital and he was serious; at first she'd blown the summons off as an odd way of invitation or something but now she and Shizune, her niece were surrounded by the Daimyo's Fire Monks. The Fire Monks were headed by Chiriku of the Daimyo's Twelve Ninja Guardians; the best of the best from all corners of the Land of Fire.

"Lady Tsunade Senju and Shizune Kato," the Monk spoke gruffly, "You are hereby ordered to accompany us to the Imperial City by the command of Fire Daimyo Masahiko Shinji. Your money and accounts have been frozen and will not be opened until such a time as you do as ordered; failure to comply will see you branded as a missing-nin."

Tsunade was enraged, how dare they freeze her accounts? Had the Daimyo gone mad; why was he doing this?

"How dare you threaten me … I am Tsunade SENJU!" she growled harshly though the Fire Monk just stared her down, nonplussed by her famous temper.

"You should comply with the Daimyo's order Lady Tsunade," was all he replied with.

"And I care why?" Tsunade angrily scoffed, 'Is this guy for real?'

The Monk didn't appreciate being dismissed so casually so he drew the Daimyo's Decree and he tossed it to Tsunade, who caught it effortlessly, moments later she began to read the decree.

Her face paled and sweat trickled down the back of her neck. The Daimyo was being serious, this decree was signed and stamped using Uzumaki sealing wax. This particular sealing item was a boon for Daimyos and Dignitaries as you had to completely match the user's biometrics. That meant a clone couldn't imitate the user, nor could a henged ninja, so that meant that this order was the genuine article.

Tsunade glanced to Shizune before swallowing a lump at the back of her throat and replying to the monk said, "Understood … when shall we be expected to arrive in the Imperial City?"

"We are to escort you at once Lady Tsunade, that decree was signed and stamped almost a week ago and you have two to arrive or be branded a missing-nin," the Monk replied nonchalantly.

Tsunade nodded and the newly formed party began their journey to the Capital of the Land of Fire.

-Time Skip: Six Days Later-

Tsunade and Shizune were exhausted. After travelling for six days straight, they'd finally arrived at the Imperial City. Shizune was awed by the magnificence of it all as she'd never been here before, while Tsunade was quick to spot the various Fire Monks wandering the city as well as the civilian Police Force. Something had happened recently and Tsunade didn't like the feeling that was welling up inside the pit of her stomach.

Upon entering the Imperial Palace, Tsunade zeroed in on the adorable looking girl with the brutally chopped off hair. The child was sitting on the famous grand staircase created by her Grandfather reading her book. She didn't get to look for long though, as they were showed to one of the grand guest rooms at the Palace. They were told that they could freshen themselves up before meeting with the Daimyo in the afternoon but Tsunade couldn't stop thinking about the child though because despite the sheer cuteness of the child, even with the bad haircut, Tsunade could sense something radiating from the child and it was both familiar and unnerving.

They were retrieved later by Chiriku himself who welcomed them to the Capital and wished them luck as he opened the door to the Throne Room. On instinct Tsunade straightened her back and strolled forward with confidence in her steps; Shizune following her mentor's example. Tsunade was surprised to see a familiar face as she approached and knew that her bad feeling was going to prove itself accurate: it was her old teammate Jiraiya.

..::..

Jiraiya had been watching an exchange between an ANBU from Kumo and an ANBU from Iwa; something dramatic had occurred in the last two weeks and the balance of power had shifted. Jiraiya was supposed to be on a routine information drop but the suspicious actions of these two ANBU caught his attention, however as quickly as the two had met, the two left again leaving a puzzled Toad Sage behind. He jumped when a voice spoke from behind him and he knew from the shifting breeze that he was surrounded; he cursed himself for being so careless.

"Lord Jiraiya of the Sannin," a man spoke, his mask denoting him as a Fire Monk covering his face. "By order of our Lord, Fire Daimyo Masahiko Shinji, you are commanded to report to the Imperial City or be marked as a missing-nin. Your money and accounts have been frozen and your publisher banned until you comply."

"Come on guys, let's just relax." Jiraiya tried to ease the tension, "We're all loyal to the Daimyo here."

"You failed to answer his first summons," the Monk replied dangerously, "If you were loyal then you'd have responded the first time. You have a week at most to report to the Palace in the Imperial City, if not …"

The Monk trailed off before tossing a copy of the decree over to Jiraiya; he caught and opened it in one swift movement and began to read the summons. Jiraiya gasped and looked up at the Monk with danger in his eyes. The Monks tensed but the leader defused the situation with a nod and a gesture in the direction of the Imperial City.

Jiraiya understood the simple gesture … this was not open for debate and they would be going with him to ensure he arrived on time. With a sigh Jiraiya nodded once more and they all departed for the Capital, the one thought in Jiraiya's mind was 'What's this all about?'

-Time Skip: Five Days Later-

Upon arriving at the Capital, the Monks escorted Jiraiya, despite his attempts to coerce them into allowing him time for 'research', to the Palace where they showed him to his room and then promptly left. Jiraiya's mind was travelling a hundred different ways trying to think of why he was being forced to meet the Daimyo before a perverse grin made its way onto his face, maybe he wanted an autograph and just couldn't wait.

A splash brought him out of his perverted mind and he walked over to the window that overlooked the garden. He looked out and spotted a beautiful looking child with poorly cut hair feeding the Koi in the pond with her legs placed in the cool water. A giggle left his mouth while he thought about the kind of beauty that child would be when she was older.

'Maybe I should come this way when she's older, she's perfect research material.' he giggled.

Chiriku came the following morning with food and a message that they were just waiting on the second group to arrive and they'd meet the Daimyo. Jiraiya nodded and took the food; he used a jutsu to check for poison, much to Chiriku's amusement but he left soon after.

It was nearing mid-afternoon when Chiriku returned and beckoned him to follow; after a short walk Chiriku opened the door to the throne room and pointed to where he would be placed before bowing and informing Jiraiya that he was going to retrieve the other group.

Imagine his surprise and barely hidden delight when he came face to face with his well-endowed teammate and her niece.

..::..

"Jiraiya? What the hell are you doing here?" Tsunade asked, confusion clear in her voice.

"Ah Tsunade-hime, how I've missed you." Jiraiya gushed in his usual manner, something that had Tsunade twitching and wanting nothing more than to knock Jiraiya into the stratosphere.

"Jiraiya … come near Shizune or I and I'll beat you into the next Nation." Tsunade growled as Jiraiya went in for a 'hug'. They started bickering and with Tsunade's temper it soon escalated into a shouting match whilst Shizune tried to placate both sides.

"Enough!" boomed the voice of the Daimyo.

At once both Jiraiya and Tsunade clammed up and took their seats with a demure Shizune bowing lowly before doing the same. Masahiko Shinji snorted at the two Sannin, they were acting like children and needed to behave themselves but the girl … Shizune Kato; well her manners were impeccable and he nodded his head to her in a return gesture.

"You two are here to answer my questions and depending on your answers will depend on how I deal with you," he spoke, his deep voice echoing throughout the room. He glanced at a nervous Shizune and spoke directly to her, "Shizune Kato, yes I know your name but don't fret for the sins of your master and mentor will not reflect on you."

Tsunade narrowed her eyes at his statement and looked heatedly at Masahiko before snorting and shifting her weight to sit more comfortably (read rudely). This didn't go unnoticed by all other parties and the Daimyo narrowed his gaze; he glanced to both of the other two people present and they both recognised the danger that resided in the Daimyo's gaze.

"Tsunade Senju … do you find my court unfit for your presence or manners?" he spoke dangerously and it seemed that Tsunade finally saw what she had done. She immediately changed her position back to one of respect and flushed with embarrassment as she bit out an apology.

Seeing that the occupants were now sufficiently cowed in his presence the stood and walked closer while holding up a seal that Jiraiya was instantly curious to examine. Masahiko gazed at the piece of parchment that held the image and remembered the circumstances that led him to getting his hands on this seal.

-Flashback-

Masahiko Shinji walked through the castle's hallways heading towards his destination; as he approached the tiny garden that had become the makeshift training ground that Asuma had started to train Naruto on, he felt a massive wave of power surge through the empty hall. Speeding up his pace he came to see Asuma staring bewildered as Naruto sat in a meditative state with his eyes closed. Masahiko watched Naruto stay like that for over fifteen minutes before looking worriedly at Asuma.

Asuma returned the worried look so Masahiko took a deep breath and walked closer to the child sitting. He heard Asuma shout rather loudly at him to stop and Masahiko turned to see that Naruto's eyes were open and glowing bright blue; then with a great amount of speed Naruto's sitting form suddenly sprang up and stood with one hand touching Masahiko's heart while the other touched his temple … then there was darkness.

Masahiko's eyes opened to a giant room that bore a massive cage that separated both sides of the aforementioned giant room. Standing up he cast a weary glance around the foreign room but saw no-one in the room besides him – that was until he heard and felt something big take a breath behind him. Masahiko spun around and came face to face with glowing red eyes and a snout that was centimetres from his head; taking a step backwards he watched the creature with trepidation before jumping again when his hand was taken hold of by a blonde haired Naruto.

This Naruto was slightly different than the Naruto that was meditating, for one this Naruto's hair was its original long blonde hair but outside he knew that Naruto had chopped off hair still dyed white. He took a closer look at the Naruto holding his hand before spotting the slit in his usually expressive blue eyes.

"Naruto? Naruto is that you?" he asked and cursed himself when his voice quaked at the start.

The Naruto lookalike glanced at Masahiko before its face sported a vulpine grin; the Naruto then jumped back but while jumping changed like shedding its skin. In its place was a beautiful young woman that held strong resemblance to Naruto but with blood red hair and eyes; she smiled predatorily at him and snapped her fingers. The sound echoed through the entire spans of the room before the cage bars disappeared as did the giant looking beast to his left. She looked at him again, though this time with a great sense of determination and curiosity.

"So you are the guardian for my dear Naru-chan?" she purred with something in her voice that sent a dangerous shiver down his spine, "I've been waiting to speak with you and my precious Naru's meditation closed the gap between his mind, my consciousness and your mind; thus our ability to converse … so tell me Fire Daimyo Masahiko Shinji … do you know who or what I am?"

"You are the Kyuubi … no, wait, Naruto called you Kurama or Kura-nee," he responded with a strong voice that belayed his hidden nerves. The woman's smile grew as she got closer to him and when she was only two feet away she stopped and that curious look came back.

"You don't step back? Are you not afraid of me mortal?" she asked with a tilt of her head and a gentle voice that sounded like honey. Masahiko stared at Kurama before straightening his back and nodding his head positively and answering truthfully.

"I-I am afraid but I trust in Naruto's sense of character … he said that you were like a big sister so I will honour what I originally said and give you the benefit of the doubt"

Kurama stare deepened and he felt as if she was examining his soul; which was likely considering they were guardians before they were known as Biiju or demons. Her face relaxed and smiled a truly beautiful smile that reminded him of Naruto.

"You are exactly as my dear Naru-chan has said you are," she said calmly before bowing as if she was a noble. "You are a man of integrity and you stand firm in the defence of those you deem family … so I thank you Masahiko Shinji for taking Naruto as a member of your family and since I smell no deceit on you I know that everything you've said is true … though you did lie about Naru-chan not being able to contact that Uchiha child."

Masahiko snorted softly but before he could defend himself she waved it off like it was old news.

"I'm aware of why you lied to Naru-chan and I agree with you," she spoke airily, "Naru's protection came first and on that note that Ninja Guardian of Naru's? Asuma Sarutobi … he is a man of character as well, his allegiance is to you and not his father … he is a man that I trust to watch Naru so lay your doubts aside my Lord."

Masahiko sucked in a breath but nodded all the same, for he had internally questioned Asuma's loyalty to him but if this woman … no; Kurama trusted him then he would trust him as well. He glanced at the woman that was still staring him down with that tilted look before she blinked, smiled at him and then turned full circle and snapped her fingers once more. This time however the wall on the far side lit up with two seals that looked like they were branded into said wall. She turned to him once more but this time all emotion was drained from her face and her voice echoed around him as she spoke.

"These seals were placed upon my dear Naru. There were originally four seals but I overcame one whilst Naru overcame the other, furthermore these two final seals may … no can only be released under the right circumstances." She said before continuing nonplussed at Masahiko's pale face. "One requires the aid of a Seal Master; I would suggest Naru's Father's teacher, Jiraiya of the Sannin. The other seal requires a potent blood … not in quantity but in quality. I have narrowed the blood down to Senju blood or Uchiha blood."

Masahiko stared at Kurama before sighing in resignation, he glanced at the wall and then back again before speaking, "Jiraiya of the Sannin and Tsunade Senju have ignored my summons but I have the entirety of the Fire Monks minus a number for guarding the palace out searching, but I must know why you need the blood of the Senju or the Uchiha and the services of a Seal Master."

Kurama seemed very pleased to hear that question and responded, "The first seal requires a Seal Master that can unseal it; the seal in question is a Heritage Seal that was unfortunately un-keyed to blood; whoever placed it was knowledgeable but not smart enough. By not keying it to blood, any old Seal Master could unbind it but my concern is the effect that it will have on Naru."

"What would happen to Naruto?" Masahiko's reply was prompt, a reply that earned him another smile of approval.

"The reason I asked for Jiraiya is that the pervert is probably the only Seal Master outside of an Uzumaki Seal Master that could organise a Suppression Room Seal. This seal would allow the Heritage Seal to be released in a controlled environment as to avoid … ahem … accidents to others and more importantly to Naruto." She coughed before continuing, "Accidents could be caused internally and externally depending on who and when they put the seal on him. Now I can handle internal problems easy but that's where the second seal comes in."

Taking a breath to allow not only herself a moment but also Masahiko who had adopted a deadly serious face during Kurama's explanation.

On seeing his nod to continue she continued.

"The second seal is a Blood Suppressant Seal." She began and after hearing Masahiko gasp she continued with a grim expression, "I see you know of that particular piece of work. The Blood Suppressant Seal was banned by the Uzumaki as it completely bound the victim's well … everything. Their intelligence, their bloodlines and their … future. The Hyūga Clan's Kago no Tori no Juin or their Caged Bird Curse Seal was a bastardized version of the Blood Suppressant Seal's incomplete form but the complete form or stage as is the seal placed on Naru would kill him before his fifth birthday."

Masahiko growled dangerously, "Who? Who is responsible for this?"

"I am uncertain but there are only four people I know of that could've done this and one is dead." She spoke grimly before continuing at his look "The others responsible are either The Sandaime Hokage, his student Jiraiya of the Sannin or the final possibility Danzo Shimura … though I suppose that Orochimaru of the Sannin could've done it but he hasn't been actively searching for Naru."

"And the one that is dead?" he spoke after swallowing the lump at the back of his throat.

Kurama sighed before replying to his question with the name: "Minato Namikaze. Kushina couldn't do it because of the Clan's Charter … no family member can actively harm a member of the Royal Family by ascension order. That means that while Tsunade has Royal Uzumaki blood in her veins because of her grandmother, Mito Uzumaki-Senju, she was blood adopted into the Senju as was the custom for marriage back then so it made Mito both Uzumaki and a Senju. Since Kushina wasn't blood adopted on her marriage night before they … ahem … consummated said marriage Naruto technically has pure Uzumaki blood with … extras from other clans and their DNA. There is no such thing as a half-blood Uzumaki unless blood adoptions have occurred; the Uzumaki blood is too strong and overwrites the main DNA strand. Naruto needs blood from another potent source so Uchiha blood or Senju blood to combat the Blood Suppressant Seal since his Uzumaki blood was already sealed with an overlapping one that Naruto destroyed in rage the night Yuki was …"

Realisation dawned on Masahiko but it was with a sad, tired smile that he replied his acknowledgement and understanding of the current situation but things weren't over just yet.

"There's … something else …" Kurama said softly with a hint of remorse, "I-I'm fading … ever since I met Naru and granted him his abilities and gave him love … which was against my Genjutsu's programming of rage … I unbound the chains that bind me to this plane of existence. Long story short … by his fifth birthday I'll be gone from inside of him"

Masahiko gasped and then paled "Will Naruto … will this cause him to … die?"

"Unfortunately Naru would fade with me and with the Blood Suppressant Seal on him as well … I don't see him living past his fifth birthday unless two things occur …" she stated seriously; Masahiko straightened his back, knowing that what was about to be said would mean life or death for Naruto.

"The first problem will be the Blood Suppressant Seal; to neutralize this seal we will need Senju or Uchiha blood as I've stated already, but we need to be careful as any special traits from their blood would awaken in Naru. For instance if Tsunade donated a vial of blood or an organ of any kind which is the price for removing the Seal then Naru may inherit her instinctive godlike strength or while slim … her chakra control. If we used the blood or organ of an Uchiha then he may inherit the Sharingan … he may not of course but the probability of such a trait transferring to Naru is high."

Masahiko gaped at Kurama and she allowed an inner triumphant smirk come forth before continuing the explanation for her solution.

"I have a solution to the second problem; I will imprint onto Naru … basically I will hand the title of 'Guardian' over to him and when I fade his life will be spared but … if I do this then Naru will never be the same. I have pre-existing traits or quirks that would transfer with my essence and title. Traits that include my slight *cough*sadistic streak but most importantly; something called 'Guardian State' as I call it. If Naruto's rage is so intense he will go into said 'Guardian State' and if he is struck dead in this state … he will die; no second chances etc. etc." she took a breath before continuing "I am made of Chakra with a consciousness but Naru is of flesh and blood so where chakra will reform … flesh and blood will not; the exception to this is if Naru is struck dead and not in the 'Guardian State' then he can regenerate from any wound life threatening or not and add that to his already impressive healing rate as an Uzumaki then you have a child that could get destroyed but if a single living cell is left then he will survive and re-form … though it would be awfully painful for him."

Masahiko just stared at Kurama with unblinking eyes before he coughed and opened his mouth to speak, to then close it again; thus this repeated itself many times before he finally gathered his thoughts.

"So you're saying that the tiny feminine boy that my family fell in love with will essentially be a … god?" he asked with a croak as he looked to Kurama.

"Not a god per say but close to it … he will essentially be semi-immortal and his body will stop ageing at 16 or 17 years old. I explained it to poor Naru-chan already but his dream of being 'manly' will never become a reality as my pheromones and chakra will cause him to become excessively more beautiful until he turns 16 or 17 years old. That means that he'll probably keep being mistaken for a girl for a very long time if not for the rest of his life" she tried to sound serious but she found herself giggling the end of her comments and even though the conversation was a serious issue, Masahiko found himself chuckling as well.

"Joking aside though I have talked to Naru and I've instructed him to meet me soon for a gift." She spoke sadly "It will be my final gift to Naru before … before I leave this plane of existence. I know for certain that if Jiraiya learns of Naru he will be forced or coerced into signing the Summoning Contract with the Toad Clan. My final gift for my dear Naru is to let him be the first since the very first Uzumaki Chain Wielder to sign the Summoning Contract with the Kitsune Clan!"

"I've never heard of the Kitsune Clan or their Summoning Contract before, I've always thought it was possible but …" Masahiko was speechless; his adopted child would be … a sight to behold once in combat or if his personality was any indication, would be a politician's worst nightmare … oh he was waiting to see how he would react to being forced into anything. "Wait … you said he would be forced or coerced into signing with the Toad Clan … why?"

"All for the sake of utilizing my 'evil' chakra for 'good' … and I assume that they'd eventually teach Naru Sage Mode." Kurama sighed tiredly, "What the Toad Clan has forgotten over time is that it was the Elder of the Kitsune Clan that taught it to the Great Toad Elder in the first place. The Kitsune Clan had learned the art of the Sage from me, who then founded and taught the next Elder of the Clan who then taught the Toads; it's all very frustrating as now the Toads have forgotten us and our stipulations in teaching them in the first place."

Kurama huffed but her face softened before turning to Masahiko with a motherly looking smile.

"Please watch my little Naru-chan for me Masahiko Shinji," she spoke softly and if it wasn't for the unnatural echo than he wouldn't have heard her, "I can only hope that whatever Deity judges me will grant my freedom to return to my Clan and my den … if that happens then I'll be able to be summoned by Naru as any other Kitsune Summon."

While the last part was spoken with cheer, Masahiko could tell that Kurama wasn't counting on being let off easy and it hurt to see her face in that kind of pain so he settled for allowing her time; when she finally turned her face was solemn and her eyes were puffy but he could see the question her eyes were asking.

"What must I do Kurama-san?" Masahiko spoke gently, it earned him a small smile before she sniffled and replied.

"I shall burn the image of the seal into your mind so you know how to draw it, you need for Tsunade to use her blood to write the seal on Naru and after the process is complete I will be gone, as will the Death Reaper's Seal; then Jiraiya will be none the wiser about who Naru-chan is," she whispered to him, "Do not be alarmed about any slight physical changes that will happen, most likely Naru's hair will grow and change colour, maybe a change in his eyes but that should be all … no magical fox tail or anything like that."

She bounced back a little cheerfully before turning to him and poking her tongue out in jest she leaned forward and kissed him right on the lips. Masahiko felt knowledge burn itself into his memory and he winced slightly but he stared at Kurama wondering about her kissing him.

"If that's how you share knowledge then … wow," he murmured to himself, but Kurama just giggled before saying, "I didn't have to kiss you but the look on your face was priceless."

He just gaped at her but she just snapped her fingers and poking her tongue out at him said to him, "Hey … I'm a Kitsune remember?"

That was all he heard before he came to; he was back in the garden on a bench under the shade of the blooming Sakura Tree. He heard a gasp as he groaned to sit up and he found himself staring into Naruto's worried eyes.

"Are you well Tou-chan?" Naruto whispered to him, so he wasn't speaking normally yet.

"I'm fine Naruto … thank you for your concern though," Masahiko replied with a kind smile; a smile Naruto returned that while small, radiated relief.

"I thought that Kura-nee might've done something mischievous to you." Naruto murmured softly and once he spotted Masahiko's look jumped slightly, "S-she did do something didn't she? Argh! That … that tricky …"

Whatever he was going to say died on his lips as a sad expression made its way onto Naruto's face and tears formed. Both Asuma and Masahiko were instantly at Naruto's side as he sobbed "Why? Why is everyone leaving me? You're not going to leave me are you Tou-chan? Asuma-sensei?"

He sounded so desperate and vulnerable so Masahiko just wrapped his arms around Naruto in a comforting hug, Asuma following suit by placing a caring hand on his shoulder and with a gentle squeeze Naruto broke down and let it all out; everything that he had bottled up since the incident that physically took Yuki away from them; that made Naruto as he was now just burst out and after what felt like an eternity he had exhausted himself and eventually cried himself to sleep.

"Asuma … forgive my attitude to you my friend and know that I do trust you completely." Masahiko spoke quietly, as if speaking louder would ruin the moment, "Would you please take Naruto to bed Asuma?"

Asuma nodded and gently picked up the small child before leaving; Masahiko stood up and with a look of a man on a mission, marched to his study to write the necessary seal.

-Flashback End-

Masahiko composed himself before turning to Tsunade, Jiraiya and Shizune; he walked to Tsunade and slammed the seal on the ground harshly so that they could all see the seal. Jiraiya instantly recognised it and gasped in horror.

"T-that's the Blood Suppressant Seal's Reversal Key!" he spoke in awe, "How did you come by this … it hasn't been used since the time of the Clan Wars. All copies of both the seal and its key were destroyed except from the record kept in the Scroll of Seals in Konoha."

The Daimyo didn't know that particular piece of information … so he made a mental note of that … that helped narrow down that it was someone in Konoha with access to the Scroll of Seals.

"Tsunade … here's what is going to happen," the Daimyo spoke with firmness in his voice, "In exchange for some of your blood to power this seal and help to heal a very special person to me … I will restore your travelling rights, your accounts and I'll personally pay off all of your debts."

"Jiraiya; you will also help this person as they have a Heritage Seal placed on them as well," he also spoke with an aura of a man that wouldn't take no for an answer, "In return I will release your distributer, publisher and printer. I will release your accounts and grant you freedom from tax on your current … publications. Of course your travelling rights will also be restored."

All occupants in the room were dead silent for quite some time before Shizune turned to her Master and nudged her. It was clear to see that the Sannin were actually considering this deal.

"Lady Tsunade?" she whispered happily "My Lady … this is great … just a little blood and healing and all of your debts would disappear!"

Tsunade thought about the deal … it weighed heavily in her favour … perhaps too heavily, but the thought of being debt free was too tempting to pass up, so she eventually tried to push another condition.

"I want our travelling rights restored permanently or no deal," she offered with narrow eyes. The Daimyo thought deeply about this condition but internally he was jumping.

'This is just too easy.' Masahiko thought.

"Very well … that is within my power to grant … that is, if you follow your end of the bargain," he replied.

Tsunade looked as if she won a million ryo … this was great! No chance to force them to report without serious issues and they couldn't stop her from travelling. Jiraiya was much more sceptical though; as Konoha's Spymaster he just had to ask.

"Is this regarding the child I saw earlier in the Garden? If so, then why? What's so special about her?" he spoke seriously.

Sealing a child was a crime in the Elemental Nations, the only exceptions being their Jinchūriki.

"That child is mine," the Fire Daimyo responded harshly "That is why this is so important to me."

"Well alright then … we have a deal!" Jiraiya responded with enthusiasm – no taxes on his current publications meant an extra 35% in his pocket so no problems to him … one seal for free permanent travelling rights as well? Good deal.

"I'll sort out the details tonight and we can have introductions and begin tomorrow morning agreed?" Masahiko responded and when both of the Sannin nodded he stood and gestured to the exit "Then by all means, please visit the sights and enjoy your time here."

Both of the Sannin plus Shizune nodded and left. Masahiko sat back into his chair … too easy!

..::..

Naruto was still depressed, he'd learned the day before that his Kura-nee was leaving as soon as the seals were broken and while he begged and cried for her not to go, he knew there wasn't any choice in the matter for the both of them. Asuma had been concerned for his well-being again and it was enough to bring a slight smile to his face.

"Naruto … why don't we skip training today and visit the market that's in town?" Asuma asked him "I already have permission from your father and he's given me money for you to spend."

Naruto nodded fervently … of course he wanted to get out of the Palace and visit the sights, he could finally visit that little pig!

Asuma chuckled and gestured for Naruto to follow. "Just remember to never wander off on your own … stay by my side got it?" Naruto nodded and they were off.

Naruto was amazed by the many odds and ends that littered the market place, there were beautiful women dancing and colours everywhere stood out to the child. He spotted a young woman with shoulder length black hair arguing with a butcher, near to where he had seen that little pig. He watched her walk away in a huff before glancing back at the merchandise window and looking sad.

Naruto was curious about why the lady was sad and tugged Asuma to the butcher's shop window.

Gazing into the window he spotted the lonely little pig shivering in fright at the hungry look that some of the butcher's patrons were giving it. Naruto couldn't take it: If he could stop a single death then he had a responsibility to do so … plus the little pig was clearly not an ordinary pig.

So pulling harder on Asuma's hand, he pushed his way into the butcher's store.

With a ring of a bell from the door, Naruto leapt inside and with a cry of "No" – Naruto dived in front of the little pig's prison. The butcher snapped out of his stupor moments later and growled.

"Hey little girl … back away from the pig and leave!" he half growled, half shouted with a red face.

Naruto shook his head and stood defiantly in front of the butcher. The butcher however didn't take kindly to the refusal and went to strike Naruto. His hand was stopped and a kunai placed at his neck courtesy of Asuma and the butcher paled. Turning to glance at the Shinobi the butcher caught the Twelve Ninja Guardian's cloth and snapped his gaze back to the child with a gulp … it was easy to see that Asuma was guarding the pretty little girl.

"I will buy this pig." Naruto said firmly.

The butcher nodded and went to get his cleaver; the little pig oinked in fear and thought that her end had come … that was until she was gently picked up and held softly to the chest of the pretty human child.

"I will buy her as is … that is to say alive." Naruto growled quietly, his voice like velvet but with the deadly edge of a blade.

The butcher couldn't fathom why the child wanted a live little pig but consented and Asuma paid the surprisingly cheap sum of ryo for the little pig.

Naruto happily squeezed the pig gently, he noticed that the little pig was female and hummed in thought, though seconds later, Naruto flushed in embarrassment as Asuma raised an eyebrow at him and then looked at the little pig sitting quite contently in Naruto's arms.

"Are you going to wait until it's fattened up before enjoying it?" he asked curiously and the little pig looked up quickly but the pretty human shook its head.

"No Asuma-sensei; I'm going to keep her but she'll need a name … hmmm …" Naruto thought for a bit before clapping his fist into his hand in realization "I'll name her TonTon."

Asuma choked in a chuckle at Naruto's entirely serious face before asking why TonTon as a name, to which Naruto replied with a shrug and an "It feels right somehow."

The newly named TonTon squealed with delight over her new name before snuggling deeper into the nice child's chest … it sure was comfortable. Naruto giggled and gripped her a little tighter so as to not drop the little pig and they continued their market exploration. Asuma couldn't help but smile at Naruto who had saved a little pig of all things, but knew that it was necessary to his healing; that little event showed that Naruto was still there, just hiding slightly. Slowly but surely the smiling child would return … he knew it.

..::..

Shizune sighed with a mixture of frustration and resignation. That poor little pig was going to be someone's dinner, she had tried to save its life but with Tsunade taking all of their money to gamble, she was left with arguing with the brute of a butcher. After being dismissed by the butcher, she huffed in anger and stormed off after a last glimpse of the poor little pig. She did spot that pretty little girl, the Fire Daimyo's child with the Sarutobi Clan Ninja though. She watched as the girl pulled him to the butcher's store in a hurry. Shizune witnessed the slight commotion and she growled to herself; the nerve of that child to buy that pig because she wanted to eat it … disgusting.

She turned around and stormed back to the Palace, in her rush she missed the scene with Naruto leaving with a happy little pig alive and well in his arms.

..::..

Naruto giggled again as TonTon snuggled into his grip and oinked in contentment; the little pig was adorable and something told him that this particular pig was special. With TonTon snuggled in they were off walking past the various trinkets for sale as he approached a thin, hungry looking girl with sturdy looking fabrics for sale. It was clear that the girl hadn't eaten for some time; her clothes were filthy and the only reason she hadn't sold any fabric was that they weren't the latest style. They were basic, plain coloured fabric though some had poorly yet adorable designed faces on them.

Nevertheless Naruto only saw himself in the girl's situation; he'd lived like that and he couldn't watch the poor girl any longer. He turned to Asuma with a look but it was clear that it was something that Asuma had seen on a regular basis. The Daimyo's City had no orphans but the larger businesses had more control in these market stalls and the Daimyo had no control over Independent Enterprises since they received revenue from most of them.

"Asuma-sensei … how much money do we have left?" Naruto asked quietly.

"We have enough to buy half of the Market Naruto, why?" Asuma replied but was beaten to an answer when Naruto marched up to the stall, the girl immediately perked up and welcomed the adorable looking noble.

"Welcome, how may I help you milady?" the girl asked, though she coughed a little afterwards … the poor girl looked tired. Naruto smiled softy before pointing to her various articles of pre-made clothing. Most of them would fit a small child like a toddler, but Naruto could see the only reason for that was because they were made from the off cuts of the cloth that she wasn't able to sell.

"Yes … I would like to purchase that vest for my companion here," Naruto replied, pointing to TonTon. The girl was surprised … the nobleman's child wanted a vest for her pig?

"If you're here to joke around like the others then please leave Miss. I have two younger sisters to help feed, I don't need pampered children to tease me every day." The girl huffed.

Naruto blinked before replying softly, "I am serious … I want something nice for TonTon so that people would see her as an owned little pig instead of just some random little pig."

The girl flushed and apologised profusely before holding out the various premade vests. TonTon wanted the dark shaded red vest, it was plain but it suited TonTon perfectly. TonTon oinked; she was clearly happy with her vest and Naruto giggled softly as TonTon observed herself in the mirror that had been lifted up by the girl.

The attendant blushed, 'What an adorable laugh.'

"This vest is perfect miss … I'll take it." Naruto replied happily.

The girl nodded, equally happy, she'd finally made a sale and her two sisters would finally get some food tonight. The thought of her sisters brought an unbidden tear to her eye, they were all she had left in the world and she'd worked every day, all day and all night to provide for them. The unfortunate truth though, was that with the Independent Enterprises holding the power in the Market District, she and her sisters suffered, as the Independent Enterprises controlled just how much she could sell and how much she could charge. Lately she barely made enough to cover their rent, let alone their schooling fees.

She was already risking her chances by inflating the prices, hoping they wouldn't notice but they had eyes and ears everywhere … If things didn't pick up soon, then she'd be forced to take an unsavoury job in the Red Light District to help cover costs … she never wanted to go down that route, but for her sisters … she would.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Naruto, who'd decided to continue talking.

"Miss? Your ability to sew is great!" Naruto replied as Asuma paid the slightly inflated price. The attendant blushed and thanked the little girl in front of her. "I find myself in need of a seamstress to help make some clothes for me … will you be willing to help miss?"

The attendant was floored … she wanted her of all people to be a seamstress? She wasn't the best, in fact she was pretty average in her ability to sew and she told the nice girl as such. The girl looked sad for a moment before perking up and asked if she wanted a personal attendant's job for her at the Palace.

The girl's heart soared, this was a chance of a lifetime moment. Seconds later however, reality reared its ugly head in her mind and she sighed miserably before glancing down at her fabric. She had a debt to the Independent Enterprise's Official to sell all of her – read their – wares before she could even consider employment from the pretty young noble child.

"I-I'm terribly sorry milady," she spoke before swallowing the lump in her throat and continuing, "I can't accept such an offer until I have sold my wares … m-my sisters and I would be in trouble if I didn't sell them – I have a deadline to keep."

Naruto slumped slightly, though the action drew his attention the remaining fabrics for sale. Upon close inspection, he could see that the fabrics were rather durable and some even had armoured meshing stitched into the fabric. It posed the boy with a thought: could this fabric be used to make clothing suitable for intense Shinobi training? It certainly warranted an enquiry.

Naruto's mind made up, he turned to Asuma and asked his odd question to the Guardian, "Would this fabric be durable enough make good training clothes?"

Asuma paused at the question, he then walked forward and felt the texture of the fabric and imagine his surprise to find the fabric to be perfect for shinobi clothing, well closer to training clothing but that was moot at this point. He turned and nodded to Naruto, who smiled his adorable smile as he turned to the solemn looking girl.

"Well that settles it," Naruto chirped cheerfully, TonTon oinking in agreement, "I'll buy it all!"

The girl couldn't believe what was happening; in the span of ten minutes or so her life, and the life of her two siblings had changed forever. She couldn't stop herself from falling to her knees crying in happiness, tears streaming down her face. She could only thank the angel of a child standing before her.

"Miss?" Naruto asked softly and after gaining the crying girl's attention, he continued, "May I ask you for your name?"

"O-Oh, forgive me milady," the girl sniffled, "My name is Maya Senna, I'm 16 years old and the oldest of three girls. My sisters are named Mimi and Momo Senna and they're both 8 years old. I've raised them since I was a child as our mother passed away two years after they were born."

Maya let out another soft sob as she thought on her sisters and deceased mother and Naruto's eyes softened at the sight. He'd never known his real mother but he knew the love of one. With Yuki and Kaoru becoming a part of his life, he'd felt the true feeling of a mother's love – when Yuki had come so close to dying at the hands of that Missing-nin from Kumo, Naruto remembered feeling the dread that came with the thought of losing her.

Squashing his own desire to break out in tears, Naruto chose to gently shush and console Maya, she was grateful for the gesture from her saviour and straightened her back and totalled their purchase; after he and Asuma had paid for the fabric with an extra tip to cover any extra expenses, Naruto smiled and asked Maya to go to the Imperial Palace the next day to take on duties as his new personal attendant.

"P-Please wait!" Maya suddenly called, causing both Naruto and Asuma to pause, "I have just one request milady."

Naruto tilted his head cutely but nodded at her to continue.

"M-My sisters milady, they need to continue their education," Maya huffed, "They … they just can't end up like me … they're smart and have a chance to be free from the Slums … I ask … no I beg of you … please allow them to keep going to school. I-I have no money left to pay for their education and … and … please!"

By now Maya had knelt desperately in front of her saviour, forehead pressed into the dirt and Naruto could see the wet drops of her tears falling into the dirt on the paved road. Naruto turned a pitiful and teary gaze to Asuma, silently begging him for help.

Asuma coughed at the look but spoke up nonetheless, "You shouldn't worry miss … the Fire Daimyo has programs for any person and their families in his employ. You're sisters wouldn't be deprived of an education … in fact the Fire Daimyo would never stand in the way of a child's education. The only thing that you should know is that you'd be required to live at the Palace … and don't worry; your sisters would be able to live with you."

Maya sniffled and looked to Asuma and Naruto.

"I don't care if I have to work for the rest of my life," Maya spoke, "As long as I can care for my sisters, I can be happy."

Naruto approached Maya and used a soft piece of the fabric that they'd just purchased to gently wipe the tears from Maya's face. Maya blushed at the action, all the while, her mind was squealing at how cute the girl in front of her was.

"Please don't cry Miss," Naruto spoke softly, "I'll do my best to help you and your sisters, I promise … and I never break my word!"

Maya sniffed once more before hugging Naruto, the action caused Asuma to tense but for once, Naruto didn't shy away from the action. He hugged Maya back and gently petted her back in reassurance … it worked as Maya pulled away with a grateful smile.

"I'll deliver these to you tomorrow," she said as she gestured to the fabric, "Will that be okay milady?"

"Of course," Naruto replied instantly, "I'll talk to my Father about your situation."

He waved goodbye to Maya and cheerfully walked back up the road, while Asuma chuckled at his behaviour, their destination: home.

..::..

Naruto felt very content as he approached the Imperial Palace's gates; he'd saved his new friend TonTon and found himself a new attendant so that his Tou-chan didn't need to worry about finding him one. He walked into the Palace spinning on his feet as he happily hummed a random tune that had somehow worked itself into his mind, a tune that seemed to lull his new friend to sleep. He was approaching the main staircase when he suddenly came face to face with a particularly irate black haired woman. Naruto instantly recognised her; she was the one that tried to help TonTon.

Naruto perked up and went to address the woman, but she stepped forward with an angry expression and cut him off.

"How dare you? How dare you buy that poor little pig, only to then let that horrible butcher kill it by cutting the poor thing up? And for what reason … to eat the poor thing?" She snarled furiously.

Asuma took a cautionary step forward but Naruto stopped him with a look, he then tilted his head before looking down to the sleeping pig. Shizune followed his gaze and spotted the little pig in question sleeping contently in the child's arms, and was it … was it wearing a red vest? She looked back to Naruto who gently prodded TonTon awake before lifting TonTon and directing her gaze to Shizune's face.

TonTon oinked in joy, it was the nice lady that tried to save her before the pretty one did. TonTon wriggled around in Naruto's grip for freedom, so she could properly thank the nice woman and Naruto instantly knew that TonTon wanted to be with the pretty, black–haired lady.

Naruto was saddened by the thought for a moment but who was he to stop TonTon from being happy … he didn't want to force TonTon to stay with him. He sighed before perking up with fake joy written on his face.

He quietly passed the extremely happy TonTon to Shizune and spoke.

"Her name is TonTon miss," Naruto tilted his head adorably again before turning and hastily walking away with after a whispered, "Please look after her for me from now on."

Shizune was stunned … the pretty child simply gave TonTon to her! She suddenly felt guilt bubble up inside of her chest. It was true that she and TonTon both shared an unexplainable bond, but that didn't explain the child's actions … unless she saw the same thing! Shizune turned to the Guardian that stared after the petite child for answers.

The Shinobi merely sighed and muttered, "Kami, can't the kid catch a break? If this carries on, he's going to think that everyone's trying to leave the poor him."

Asuma shot off down the hall to catch up to Naruto. It was lucky that her mind didn't process the male pronouns used by Asuma but it still left a guilty Shizune standing there with a saddened TonTon.

TonTon oinked in sadness, she wanted to go with the black haired lady but she didn't mean to hurt the pretty child; both stared down the hallway and felt more guilt than they'd ever felt before.

"I didn't even ask her for her name," Shizune whispered sadly to herself.

..::..

Naruto's enhanced hearing caught the mutterings of Asuma as he fled from TonTon and Shizune but he was hurting too much to care. He'd saved TonTon from being some rich noble's dinner snack, he'd clothed her and cared for her, what had she done? She'd repaid him by leaving him … just like the other important people in his life. He understood her reasons, TonTon and that pretty lady seemed to share a sort of bond, but the events brought a question from deep within his mind: how long would it be until everybody else left him?

Call him selfish but now that Naruto had tasted what it was like to be wanted – to be loved, he never wanted to be alone again!

Naruto could understand TonTon on a basic level but not on the same level as Tora, he wondered if it was because of Kurama, after all: foxes were similar to cats. Kurama had said that he'd be able to understand most animals … perhaps it was because TonTon was young? He didn't know but he'd ask Kurama before she … the thought trailed off and only caused to anger him further as Naruto slowly increased his pace as he worked himself into a rage.

Naruto even began subconsciously using the Air around him to quicken his pace, he was going so fast now that Asuma had to increase his speed to that of a Chunin's to keep up with the effeminate child, after navigating the many corridors he knew where Naruto was going; he was going to see his father.

Naruto suddenly stopped and sighed … the anger inside him had just simply melted away as Naruto knew that he couldn't be angry at TonTon and the black–haired lady … but he had to know.

Turning to face Asuma he asked in a small voice, "Asuma-sensei … am I, am I cursed?"

That question threw Asuma for a loop, Naruto thought he was cursed, why would he even ask such a question? It took the rest of his mind a few extra seconds to catch up before everything became clear to the Ninja Guardian.

Naruto thought he was cursed because he believed that everyone leaving was his fault.

Sighing Asuma checked his surroundings and then answered the child, "Of course not Naruto, it seems like everything is your fault but it isn't … you hear me? Your mother Yuki risked her life for you – to defend you and you need to believe that she'll be fine! As for the little pig …"

Asuma halted at the adorable glare that he received and corrected himself, "Sorry … TonTon. She left because you were the second person to try to help her. Yes you saved her life, and I can tell that you'll hold a special place with her for that, but the young woman who now has TonTon will care for her just as much as you would've cared for her … and they seem to share a bond; and always remember, that bonds are important."

"I know that Asuma-sensei. It's just … it's just I'm so confused right now." Naruto replied before sucking in a deep breath and elaborating, "It's not just what happened with TonTon that confuses me. My body feels really weird Sensei, since … since that night, I've been sensing so many new things and these chains? Kura-nee called them … err … what were they called again?"

"You mean the Kongō Fūsa?" Asuma supplied with a chuckle.

Naruto nodded fervently, "Right … right the Kongō Fūsa; well she understands my commands Asuma-sensei and I can understand her. She whispers things to me sensei!"

Asuma looked up at him in alarm … the chains whispered things to him? She? He'd heard of certain unique cases about mutations with Kekkei Genkai where something like this was possible; case in point was the Kurama Clan Heiress, Yakumo … his father, the Sandaime really needed to keep a stronger leash on the many mouths from the Village but that was beside the point … back to the situation.

"S-She whispers things to you Naruto?" Asuma asked sharply, he was suddenly in business mode and Naruto jumped when Asuma instantly knelt down to look him directly in the eye, "What do you mean by 'she' … what does 'she' whisper to you and is 'she' influencing you?"

As if the chains could understand the concept of being talked about behind their 'backs' they suddenly emerged from his back and swayed eerily close to Asuma's head whilst letting off a humming like sound; a sound that got louder like it was angry.

"No … please don't hurt him Kaa-chan!" Naruto quickly shouted before instantly covering his mouth with a gasp.

Asuma choked painfully on a breath, "K-Kaa-chan?" he replied just as loudly.

The chains halted in their movements before returning to Naruto and gently 'hugging' him, humming once more.

"No Kaa-chan … Asuma-sensei is not to blame for my childhood." Naruto replied with an eye roll, "The Sandaime was the only Sarutobi Clan Ninja that was responsible for my treatment by the village; so blame the Sandaime and Konoha."

The chains responded by humming again and Naruto smiled softly before turning to Asuma, "She says sorry Asuma-sensei for overreacting."

Asuma blinked before shakily replying with "W-Why are you calling them Kaa-chan?"

Naruto looked nervously at the chains and then to his sensei, the chains hummed something and bobbed in mid-air before returning to his body.

"U-Um … well, I can explain later with Tou-chan around but please wait until then." Naruto stuttered out with a desperate tone.

Truth be told Naruto didn't know why calling the chains Kaa-chan worked but from the moment they'd awakened they'd felt … motherly to him. They comforted him when he felt alone, and their protective nature was clearly evident by the way the way the chains had followed Asuma's every movement when he first became his sensei. Now that Naruto thought about it … Kura-nee hadn't mentioned much about them, just mentioning about how they were stronger than his biological mother's Kongō Fūsa.

"Fine but I expect an explanation later," Asuma sighed heavily as he gently placed his hand on Naruto's shoulder and gave the child a smile, "Let's change the topic for now, after all, I believe we should tell your father to expect a new employee tomorrow."

Naruto stood there for a moment longer before bobbing his head in an adorable nod like fashion before hugging Asuma gently around the man's leg.

"Thank you Asuma-sensei," he murmured softly, it was barely loud enough to be heard, but it was still heard. Asuma just gave another small sigh before returning the hug, taking an instinctually protective stance whilst doing so.

"No worries Kid," he replied with a soft smile.

Damn that kid brought out his natural protective instincts.

They were interrupted by the presence of Tora who trudged into the room before sitting right down, directly in front of Naruto and meowed, as if speaking and Asuma chuckled at the oddity of Tora's behaviour ... it was almost as if she expected them to understand what she was saying.

"Tora-chan?" Naruto knelt down to better hear the cat "What's that … Tou-chan is not in the study but in the throne room?"

"… …"

"Wow, thank you Tora-chan," Naruto chirped, "I was just wondering where he was but I didn't know that … thank you."

"…"

"Tora-chan says that Tou-chan is in his office and he's not too busy at the moment." Naruto reiterated to Asuma at his enquiring glance.

Asuma didn't bother to ask how or why Naruto could understand Tora, so he just let out a heavy breath before leading Naruto towards their new destination.

Tora paused for a moment, before she seemed to shrug and began following from behind the two; much to Naruto's amusement and Asuma's confusion.

..::..

Shizune continued to stare down the corridor that the pretty little girl fled down, she felt absolutely horrible at the behaviour she had just shown and now she didn't know if she was going to see the child again; she was now at a loss on how to make it up to the child for her actions.

The little pig TonTon began squirming in her arms and she glanced down at the little pig, watching as the pig struggled to free herself and follow the adorable child that had saved her.

Shizune felt a strong pang of guilt as she recalled the look on the child's face, it was so … empty and from that singular look, Shizune could instantly tell that the child had suffered a great deal of pain in her short life. Then there was what that Ninja Guardian Member – Asuma Sarutobi if she recalled correctly – had said … why did he mutter about everything leaving? Did this have something to do with why she and Lady Tsunade had been summoned to the Imperial City on threat of death?

It was certainly something that didn't make sense to Shizune, but she just had to find that child and apologise. Shizune was so deep in thought that she failed to notice the return of Tsunade until she coughed from behind her. Startled, Shizune dropped TonTon and she watched the little pig chase after the child. She turned to Tsunade with a defeated look on her face and upon noticing the questioning glance from her mentor and mother figure she finally spoke.

"L-Lady Tsunade! I … uh … is there something wrong?" Shizune stuttered nervously 'I hope this doesn't ruin our deal with the Daimyo.'

Tsunade raised her eyebrow in question while her lips quirking upwards in amusement. Seeing her usually calm apprentice look so flustered was a rare moment to witness, but she refrained from embarrassing her poor niece by poking fun at her, so instead she spoke calmly.

"What's happened Shizune and why the hell were you holding a pig wearing a red vest?" Tsunade asked incredulously, she coughed slightly to cover her disbelief of seeing said pig, in said red vest … it was dare she say cute.

Shizune sighed deeply before retelling the events that led to the very moment of their conversation.

"Let me get this straight … you tried to save a … a pig, whose name is TonTon but when you couldn't, the Daimyo's brat stepped in and saved said pig … and then, instead of following your emotional control training, you blew up at said child in anger, only for her to give you the pig in question instead of fighting back?" An exasperated Tsunade reiterated.

Tsunade tried to hold in the unladylike snort but ultimately failed when Shizune nodded softly in embarrassment and shame.

"And then that Ninja Guardian Ninja – Sandaime-sama's son … mentioned something about everyone leaving the child," Shizune whispered pathetically.

Tsunade blinked before the pieces fell together, all the rumours of a failed assassination by Kumo and the mysterious circumstances that surrounded the fate of the Daimyo's concubine/wife Yuki Kaguya-Shinji must've been true. If the Daimyo's child was there when the attack occurred and witnessed said attack; then that would explain the dead look the girl had written on her face when she first spotted the child.

There was another suspicious detail missing though.

As if it wasn't enough, the closer that Tsunade got to the child, the stronger that feeling of familiarity resonated within her. It was something that caused her to pause and consider rethinking the deal completely.

That child … there was just something off about her.

Tsunade found herself frowning, ' Nothing about that child makes sense … perhaps it's time to have a word with Jiraiya.'

..::..

TonTon was devastated with the outcome of what had occurred earlier. True, she wanted to be with the black haired lady, but the pretty child was the one who had actually saved her. It was curious to her that the child could actually understand her on a basic level, unlike other humans and she could tell the child's heart was pure, despite the pain clearly evident on her face.

It was a pain that she had now contributed to, and that was unforgivable to TonTon.

She hadn't thought much of her actions until she saw the fake smile that had appeared on the child's pretty face. That smile was just so wrong on the adorable child's face, and the moment TonTon saw that fake smile, she wanted nothing more to jump back into the child's arms and apologise profusely.

She glanced up at the nice lady and began struggling in an attempt to convince the lady to release her: it was so she could go after the child. TonTon had her chance and seized it when the nice lady was suddenly startled by another lady that smelled of slugs. Once free, she bolted down the same hallway that the child had disappeared in to. TonTon ran as fast as she could, as she looked for the child and the child's guard. She just had to set this situation straight and make it right.

She was startled by a sudden crash near the window to her right and froze when a particularly large brown cat, with the strangest red ribbon on its ear stepped forward. After making its presence known, TonTon shrunk into herself and stepped back slowly … only to realise too late that the large cat was boxing her in … it would've worked too, but she escaped back down the way that she had come from.

The cat was hissing aggressively towards her and TonTon had no choice but to flee … she would have to search for the child later, so oinking in defeat she made her way back to the nice lady.

If she'd looked back, she would've seen the cat huff triumphantly before swiftly turning and walking towards Naruto and Asuma.

..::..

Tora sat on her window perch, idly watching as her tail swished gracefully back and forth in boredom. Since the Monkey Clan smelling spawn took Naruto away to the market place, she had to contend herself with watching the Palace, and did just that for most of the day … though hunting for that mouse for lunch did amuse her slightly.

It was later in the afternoon when her 'Kitty Senses' activated and she bolted towards the main entrance room. True to her sense's feelings, there was her sweet little kitten … and the tobacco smelling monkey entering the Palace. She was about to jump forward and make her presence known, when she noticed a pig … a PIG of all things in her kitten's arms.

At first she was irritated and went to show said irritation to her kitten, when she found her view blocked by that Slug Clan woman's apprentice.

Oh she knew of Tsunade alright; her mother, also named Tora, gave the brat a real challenge as a Gennin and had told her of the 'Tora Family Tradition,' that had begun shortly after the Second Hokage's death.

What people didn't know was that Tora was affiliated with the Neko Clan, a clan that had their very own Summoning Scroll, though they'd had no master since the late Second Hokage. Ironically – like their master and his relationship with the Uchiha Clan, their rival Neko Clan was affiliated with the Uchiha Clan and while they could talk the human tongue, they'd given up on all of their other skills to do so … they'd degraded their once esteemed Clan, to the point where they were essentially just talking cats with a few humanlike quirks.

Her family had taken it upon themselves to honour their late master by testing the new generation of shinobi by use of a mission that was constantly put forward: The Tora Retrieval Mission.

While in Tora's case she desperately wanted to escape the vile clutches of Madam Shinji, it was still her allocated mission to test the new generation like her mother before her and her mother's mother before her and so on and so forth; so what better way to do so then to observe their patience, teamwork, tracking and trapping skills.

These skills were by far the most respected by the Neko Clan, sure there were many other skills that were just as respected but she was under orders to test the noted skills by her Clan.

Snapping from her reverie she witnessed the black haired woman shout at her kitten. Tora was exceptionally pleased to see the tobacco-monkey taking a defensive stance in front of Naruto, but after a few moments the air was cleared as the pig, TonTon was her name … seriously? Well, she woke up and squealed at the lady.

Tora saw the flash of pain in Naruto's eyes and was instantly in 'Mother Cat' mode; she watched as her precious Naruto fled with the monkey in tow, before she silently observed the humans and pig that remained. That pig would have to stay away from her kitten, or she may just spoil herself with pork for dinner.

Tora crept out of the room, keeping to the shadows and found a perch that overlooked the entrance to the room that Naruto had gone into and waited for the right moment. It wasn't long at all before she saw the little pig break free from the black haired woman and begin running in her kitten's direction. After briefly debating as to whether or not to allow the pig TonTon to go further, she decided to make her presence known. She jumped from her perch and landed in sight of the pig and hissed. She revelled in the fear that radiated from TonTon, as she hissed and advanced on the pig, manoeuvring the pig into a corner, ready to strike … but sadly, before she could pounce, it turned and bolted.

Tora smirked triumphantly before she trudged back towards Naruto and Asuma's location … maybe Naruto would pet her later.

..::..

Fire Daimyo Masahiko Shinji slammed his fist down onto the top of his desk as he finished reading a missive from Konoha, it seemed Hiruzen and the esteemed Council were demanding his presence … demanding that he simply hand over his son because they wanted him to?

Masahiko gritted his teeth in sheer fury and frustration … did Hiruzen and his Council really believe that they had the power to command him: the Fire Daimyo and ruler of the Land of Fire? If they did then his sense of rationality going to start wavering and very quickly. He could just wipe out a few of the council members to remind them of their place … call it a day, and then when Naruto was older and trained a little bit further; he could finish the job.

It was an awfully tempting plan.

His vindictive thought process was interrupted by the hesitant knock at his office/throne room door and he smiled, there were only two sets of people who did that … the new servants or his son. It proved to be the latter as Naruto poked his head through the slightly opened door and looked around curiously.

"Do you have a moment to talk Tou-chan?" Naruto enquired softly and he smiled his angelic, soft smile once Masahiko nodded. Naruto stepped inside and waited for Asuma and surprisingly enough, Tora, to enter before closing the door and picking Tora up.

"What's wrong Naruto?" Masahiko asked him gently.

Naruto, who had started petting Tora, glanced at Asuma for a moment before standing a little bit straighter and nodding to himself. This was new, Naruto held himself far more confidently than just yesterday and the Fire Daimyo found himself smiling proudly.

"Yes Tou-chan … I-I wanted you to know that I found a girl who agreed to be my personal attendant and before you say no …" Naruto hastily answered after seeing his father ready to interrupt, "She has two younger sisters that are relying on her for support!"

Naruto paused and took a breath before continuing, "For some reason, since … since I awoke the Kongō Fūsa, I can tell when people are lying to me and she was genuine Tou-chan. Just … just please trust me on this, Asuma-sensei knows and he'll tell you."

Masahiko was raising a brow one second and then he was choking on a breath the next … Naruto could now tell if and when people were lying to him? Hesitantly he looked over to Asuma, who was chuckling nervously.

"Is this true Asuma, did he find such a girl in the Markets?" Masahiko enquired sharply.

Asuma instantly straightened his posture and responded, "Yes My Lord, we discovered the young lady selling fabric. Upon discovering the fabric was suitable for shinobi training clothing, we purchased the material … it was then, that Naruto asked her for the position sir. The girl is 16 years old and did indeed show signs that she was genuine in her claims."

"She originally believed Naruto was lying and teasing her for wanting to purchase fabric from her and explained that she had younger sisters that she supported. Once the truth was established Naruto couldn't just stand there and do nothing." Asuma finished.

Masahiko took in the story/report before sighing in exasperation after another minute or so of silence.

'Trust Naruto to go out for fun and come back with people in need instead of trivial items of childish interest,' Masahiko sighed with a slight grin.

"Very well," Masahiko replied, "I'll have her shadowed until tomorrow and if anything negative shows up by the time that she arrives, I'll have her escorted away … understood Naruto?"

Naruto let out a breath of relief … for a minute there he was certain that his father was cross with him.

"What is her name Asuma?" Masahiko enquired, "I'll need a general description of her as well."

Asuma blinked and glanced to Naruto, who then raised a delicate eyebrow before answering the question for them both.

"Her name is Maya Senna Tou-chan," Naruto provided and licked his lips before continuing, "She's 16 years old and has two younger sisters that are twins; the twins are both 8 years old and are named Mimi and Momo Senna."

Naruto paused before continuing, "If you approve of her Tou-chan, she'll need to live in the servant's quarters with her two sisters but …"

Here he stopped and Masahiko raised a brow in question while Asuma knelt next to him and put his hand on his shoulder in support.

"She has one request … she hopes that her younger sisters can continue their education. She'll gladly work all day, every day for the rest of her life if they could get that … please Tou-chan."

Masahiko's eyes softened, "Of course Naruto, we have many servants and workers at the Palace that have families, and we happily provide education and healthcare to them for no extra cost to their pay or their own health, she won't have to work herself to death to care for her sisters."

Masahiko smiled and finished with, "You should know that I'm very proud of you right now Naruto."

Naruto tilted his head adorably and adopted a look of confusion, "I-I don't understand Tou-chan."

"What I mean Naruto, is that you're thinking like a brilliant leader. You've shown that you genuinely care for people without discriminating about their class or station in life. I couldn't be any prouder of you than right now!" Masahiko beamed at him.

Naruto blushed cutely under the praise of his father.

"Now why don't you run along to your etiquette lessons with your mother while Asuma gives me her description okay?" Masahiko suggested.

Naruto happily nodded and with a comfortable grip on Tora, he left the room so as to not be late for his lessons. Once Naruto had left the room Masahiko turned to Asuma and gestured to continue.

"Well she's about five and a half feet tall, she has dirty brown hair, though I'd wager that once washed properly it wouldn't look as dirty, and she possesses a fair complexion topped off with matching brown eyes … she wears no makeup either." Asuma reported.

The Daimyo nodded his head and proceeded to write a temporary pass to allow her and her sisters entrance and signed it with a flourish, "Thank you Asuma, before you go … how is he coping?"

Asuma internally debated as to whether or not to mention the incident with the chains or the fact that Naruto addressed them as 'Kaa-chan' but …

"There is one thing My Lord." Asuma responded and at the Daimyo's nod he continued, "You are aware of the Kongō Fūsa? Well … they appear to be sentient and Naruto has mentioned that they respond to 'Kaa-chan', conversely he doesn't have any resignations in addressing them in such an affectionate manner but I'm concerned by this My Lord."

Masahiko pondered Asuma's statement and stewed on an appropriate course of action, he needed to speak with Kurama anyway and perhaps she knew something about these issues … as it stood Tsunade was demanding to give Naruto a check-up before the first unbinding of seals and he was starting to have serious doubts about the presence of the two Sannin under the same roof as each other and his family.

"I understand … thank you Asuma," Masahiko replied after a few moments, "I shall speak with Naruto later as I need answers from Kurama anyway … thank you my friend, you are dismissed."

Asuma bowed and left hastily to catch up with Naruto, after all he had dawdled for too long. He caught Naruto glancing suspiciously in the direction of the servant's quarters, the wind around them blowing just a little bit stronger as well.

Seconds later, Naruto muttered a, "It must've been a bird," before they both bustled off to Naruto's lessons.

..::..

Jiraiya, despite his extreme perverted nature was for once, not peeping at the women at the bath house; no instead he was watching the adorable little girl that was bustling through the Palace … heading towards her etiquette lessons no doubt.

Jiraiya was unnerved by the child, there was something that wasn't visible but it called to him nonetheless and that was why he was using his various spying jutsu to watch over the child. Though he was sure the kid might be a sensor as the kid had looked in his direction, and he was sure the wind had picked up for a moment but that was crazy … right?

A Messenger Slug suddenly appeared in front of him and passed the message that Tsunade wanted to talk with him about the child. Jiraiya instantly responded affirmatively to the request and informed the Messenger Slug of a private safe house he had in the Imperial City. It was there, that they could talk without interruption.

Not 30 minutes later Jiraiya found himself sitting at the table of his safe house staring at an angry Slug Sannin … with a sad looking Shizune standing behind her now holding an equally depressed looking pig named TonTon.

"There's something going on here Jiraiya." Tsunade began, "Masahiko is hiding something and the whole thing revolves around that child. I've already requested an examination before removing the seal … it will let me properly observe the child."

"Tsunade-hime, aren't you overthinking this?" Jiraiya countered smoothly, "Yes there is something going on, but it could just be the care of a father towards his child after a traumatic experience."

"U-Um … Tsunade-sama … I have to agree with Jiraiya-sama on this," Shizune interrupted quietly, "We shouldn't just assume that the Fire Daimyo is hiding something from us … and if he is then I'm sure it's for an important reason."

Tsunade listened to the sound argument from her ex-teammate and her niece and pondered the situation … was she overthinking this? No, of course she wasn't, after all … she had sensed something familiar from the child. It was the Senju Blood deep within her bones that cried out to her, and that was not a coincidence: that child was more than she appeared!

"Perhaps you're both correct," Tsunade spoke before licking her lips and continuing, "But the Senju Blood within me resonates with the child. Something like that is only possible if the child had Senju Blood, even just a slight amount running through her veins."

Jiraiya pondered Tsunade's comment and Shizune gasped softly at the revelation.

"B-But you're the last Senju. If that child resonates with your Blood, then that means that the child has to be related to you. The only possible way for that to be true is if the child was related to your … your son!" Shizune stuttered before a harsh glare from Tsunade stopped her.

"You don't think I don't know that Shizune?" Tsunade hissed, "The only thing I can think of that makes any sense is my son … but by the time I realised my mistake it was too late, he was gone after an attack on the Orphanage and I never could find him again."

Tsunade hiccupped at the end of her statement and tears began to form in her eyes. Shizune hugged her mentor but it was then that Jiraiya said something that would forever change his ex-teammate's life.

"I-I know where your son went." Jiraiya didn't bother sugar-coating his tone as it was a serious moment, "He became well known during the Third Great Shinobi War, where he decimated over a thousand Iwa Shinobi with a single jutsu … he was my apprentice and his name was Minato Namikaze!"

Tsunade and Shizune both gasped before Jiraiya found himself planted into the wall behind him with a terribly furious Tsunade standing there with her fists clenched so tightly, that she was bleeding. Despite the circumstances, Jiraiya never lost the serious expression on his face that had now seemed much older than five minutes earlier.

"WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME JIRAIYA … why?" she shouted before whispering the last part in a broken tone, "D-Did he at least know of his heritage?"

Jiraiya calmly removed himself from the wall and stood in front of his ex-teammate, staring her down.

"… Yes he did, the Daimyo ordered a blood test done and my spies intercepted the results before they were delivered to the Daimyo," he spoke softly, "When I informed Minato he just smiled and responded with an 'I had my suspicions'."

Tsunade broke down into tears once more and fell listlessly to the floor, Shizune reacting immediately and moved to comfort her mother-figure.

"W-why Jiraiya … why?" she whispered, "Why did you keep this from me?"

"I was under orders of the Third and Fourth Hokage not to reveal this information to you," he responded in a business like tone, "My orders were received as a SS-Class mission."

Shizune sucked in a breath and glanced nervously between the two Sannin, the Third Hokage knew? Why the hell would he keep this from Tsunade? He wouldn't have … unless he wanted to use the information as leverage later on.

"B-Bastard!" Shizune muttered and Tsunade looked at her in surprise at her language, "The bastard was going to bribe Tsunade-sama with this information, wasn't he?"

Jiraiya turned his head and shifted his gaze in guilt, but nodded nonetheless and Tsunade felt her hatred for Konoha return stronger than ever before.

"He won't get away with this," she growled menacingly, "I WILL beat the living shit out of him for the crimes against the Senju Clan!"

Jiraiya began to sweat … was she seriously going to pull the Senju Blood card? She had never taken much stock in her blood, despite being considered the last of the Senju Clan, but this was something that he never expected.

"N-Now Tsunade-hime …" he began and faltered under her angered visage, "Don't do anything foolish. Remember what we've been promised … at least wait until we've completed our tasks here so that we can't be branded as Nuke-nin."

"We? There is no we Jiraiya!" Tsunade hissed but she sucked her breath in moments later as an equally angry Jiraiya now stood before her, exuding a level of power that had been unseen since the last war.

"Yes, we Tsunade …" Jiraiya breathed out in a tone of frustration, "I was deceived just as much as you were! I was told that Minato's child had died during the sealing and I will be DAMNED if an old man … Third Hokage or not got away with it!"

"T-Then …" Tsunade licked her dry lips, "Then we are in agreement; first we discover if the child is my Granddaughter and your Godchild … and if so … then we burn the old monkey alive … deal?"

"Deal …" Jiraiya replied immediately before he paused, "Wait …you said Granddaughter … but Minato and Kushina were expecting a son!"

..::..

Kurama laid her weary head down on her front paws/arms … ever since the breaking of the curse of that infernal Genjutsu she had been feeling continuously tired and lethargic. She knew instinctively that this was happening because her Chakra was fading and becoming her hosts', and that meant that she didn't have much time left with her dearest Naru.

She wasn't wallowing in self-pity though, she instead wanted to try anything to extend her time and spend said time with Naru … but she was losing the battle with her body. It seemed that everything that she tried had failed and she decided that it might just be best to give up … but it was then that she felt a pulse. The pulse of a Chakra signature that she hadn't felt in years … the signature of her previous host and … yes; her husband's signature was there as well, now if only she could summon them to her.

Concentrating on their signatures, Kurama tried to discern how their signatures could be present in her seal … it was then she smiled. Typical Kushina, teaching her husband how to imprint chakra-echoes into her son's seal … she just needed Naru to come to her now; so she pulsed her chakra and spoke to him.

"Naru-chan I need you at once!" she called.

..::..

Naruto was happily learning etiquette from his Kaoru-kaa-chan when he felt his Kura-nee's chakra pulse and his eyes widened in fear … was something wrong?

"Naru-chan I need you at once!" he heard from his mind and he turned his attention to his Kaa-chan.

"Kaa-chan … I need to go," he told her urgently, "Kura-nee is in trouble."

"Go to her Naru-chan," Kaoru told him kindly, he smiled and thanked her profusely before closing his eyes in meditation and appeared in his mindscape.

Naruto immediately ran towards Kurama's cage and burst into the area in a frantic manner, he spotted his nee-chan tiredly wheezing in the corner of her cage and ran to her side.

"Kura-nee? Talk to me Kura-nee!" Naruto cried hurriedly, "What's wrong … it's not time for you to go is it? Please don't leave me."

Kurama smiled tiredly at Naruto and moved one of her tails to hug the frantic child and calm him down.

"Just relax Naru-chan," she whispered soothingly, "I'm not leaving just yet but I do need you for something."

"Anything!" Naruto urged whilst accepting the hug, "What do you need Kura-nee?"

"I have a way to extend my time with you … albeit only slightly; but still an extension," she replied tiredly, "If you remove the Shiki Fūjin or Dead Demon Consuming Seal from the cage, then I suspect that it will summon two people who would very much like to meet you. In doing so, it could grant me an extension past Tsunade removing the Blood Suppressant Seal. It might only be for an hour or it could be for a few days but I will still get that time with you."

Naruto absorbed the information given to him and wasted no time in instantly sprinting to the cage door and trying to jump to reach the seal. Kurama giggled and let him use her tail as a ladder, moments later, Naruto removed the Seal. There was an instant result as a hand instantly materialised to try to stop him … though the hand was suddenly pulled aside by a Golden Chain, the second the hand was restrained was just enough, as the seal was completely removed.

Naruto whipped his head around and stared at the Golden Chain in front of him before whispering a quiet, "Kaa-chan?"

The woman nodded fearfully, before Naruto ran at Kushina to hug the woman. Kushina was instantly in tears and ran up to Naruto, pulling him into a tight hug and whispering apologies over and over again.

..::..

Minato Namikaze and his wife Kushina Uzumaki-Namikaze just knew something was wrong. Their chakra-echoes were weakening, as was the Shiki Fūjin, and it concerned them both. They felt a gentle tugging and Kushina smiled softly … it appeared as though the Genjutsu had finally been lifted from Kurama but if that was the case then Kurama would be fading, and if she was fading then so was her precious child. She so desperately wanted to appear before them but was restricted by the seal. The only thing that she was capable of doing was controlling the chains that her little Naru-chan had awoken … it was purely coincidence that he started calling the chains 'kaa-chan' but it filled her with a sense of warmth each and every time he did so.

Minato had been able to observe his son's life since the seal had been placed upon him and he was so disappointed in Konoha. He loved his home, but if he were alive then he would gladly watch Konoha burn for their crimes against his son. The only frustrating thing for him was that he was unable to see who placed the Blood Suppressant Seal or Heritage Seal on his child but HOW DARE THEY DO THAT TO HIS CHILD?

If he knew who did it then he would gladly deal with the Shinigami to take everything of his, every single lingering piece of his soul and chakra to have revenge on those who had hurt his son.

They were both startled when Minato felt the Shiki Fūjin pulse and he gasped, "Naruto's removing the Seal Kushi-chan!"

They both felt the pull and appeared before Kurama's cage but as Minato proceeded to stop Naruto from completely removing the seal, Kushina summoned her chains and stopped him … thus causing the seal to be completely removed.

Her sweet little boy whipped around, a glance of recognition passed across his face at the sight of her chains, and he whispered a question that filled her with both fear and hope.

"Kaa-chan?" Naruto whispered in question.

Kushina nodded, the feeling of fear pulsing in her heart proved unnecessary as Naruto bolted forward to meet her in a hug, a hug that Kushina gladly returned. Tears ran down her cheeks as she whispered apologies over and over again to her son.

..::..

Kurama watched the scene with teary eyes, as the family that was so tragically ripped apart was finally reunited. She couldn't be any happier for her dear Naru-chan but they needed to get to business before their chakra-echoes faded completely.

"Kushi-chan ... Minato-san, I am happy for your reunion but there are pressing matters to attend to," she hesitantly spoke, she didn't want to spoil their moment but … "I had Naru-chan remove the seal so that we may have this meeting, I'm sure you've noticed both of your chakra-echoes failing and my own presence fading with you?"

Minato grimaced but nodded all the same, "Yes we had noticed, but I must admit that I wasn't expecting Naruto to actively want to break the seal. That being said, I can also understand the necessity in doing so, furthermore, I expected to meet you one day … just not so soon."

Kushina nodded sadly and hugged Kurama's still present tail, "T-Thank you for watching over our boy Kura-chan, it means the world to us."

Kurama nodded before she let her chakra spiral around her and taking her human form, so as to communicate better with the family.

"Minato-san … Kushi-chan … I'm dying and Naruto will die with me unless we remove the seals that are hindering him. I'm sure that you're both aware of the chain of events that I have set into motion with the Fire Daimyo?" at their nod Kurama continued, "Well I admittedly don't have a lot of time so to extend the time I do have, I'm going to ingrain the knowledge that I possess into Naru-chan's mind … thus giving us time for other things other than training. What I want to know is, if you are willing to do the same."

Of all the things that Kurama could've asked of them, they certainly didn't expect this and it dawned on them that after this meeting, they'd never be able to communicate with Naruto ever again. Especially due to the fact that because Minato's soul was inside the Shinigami's stomach, he couldn't be summoned via the Kuchiyose: Edo Tensei or Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation created by the Second Hokage: Tobirama Senju.

In other words: this was their only chance to pass on their knowledge and skills as, at the times of their death, both Minato and Kushina were in the process of transferring that knowledge into scrolls for their child. With Minato's responsibilities as Hokage and Kushina being pregnant whilst simultaneously holding Kurama's powers at bay they just didn't have the time.

In fact the only people alive that could pass on some of their knowledge and skills were Hatake Kakashi, Jiraiya of the Sannin and Kushina's Kenjutsu student Gekkō Hayate; Jiraiya as Minato's Teacher, Kakashi as Minato's Student and finally Kushina's Student Hayate.

This made a short list and in the end … all these people could really teach their son was the Rasengan and a bastardised version of Kushina's Kenjutsu style. So in the end their minds were made up; instead of just fading, they would pass their knowledge to their child directly and with Kurama being there, she could sort that information out so that Naruto could utilize their skills with training, well … a LOT of training.

"I trust that means that it is best to give you your Yin Chakra back Kurama?" Minato replied after a heavy silence, "Is that wise … will Naruto be able to handle that much power and chakra?"

"Usually no, but because I've already imprinted on him as my successor as Guardian. For that reason: yes he will be able to handle the power … but he won't be able to use it until the Blood Suppressant Seal has been removed from his body by Tsunade … who I might add might be getting suspicious, as I believe that she may have sensed the Senju Blood that you passed onto him." Kurama responded, "Your teacher Jiraiya must be suspicious as well, as by now, Tsunade would have informed him of her suspicions … but I would have to have my Yin Chakra back before she removes the seal."

Minato nodded and looked to his wife, she was still hugging Naruto but showed that she had heard and understood what it was that they had to do.

"Naruto … my son," Minato spoke first, "I am ever so proud of the person that you've become and growing to become. You've not been blinded by hatred, remember that the cycle of hatred is ripe in the Shinobi Word but it takes just one person to break that cycle … and I believe that person is you Naruto; so goodbye my son and grow up to be strong"

With that Minato flashed through handseals at an amazing speed before touching one hand to Kurama and the other to Naruto's forehead. Naruto was suddenly assaulted by memories and knowledge that he couldn't even begin to comprehend and after 15 minutes of pain, the process was complete. Minato turned to Kurama and bowed before returning to face his wife and child, he gave his wife a chaste kiss and petted Naruto's head before laying a kiss to his forehead.

"Grow strong my son … and stop the cycle of hatred," and it was with those parting words that Minato faded from the world.

Kurama felt life enter her once more, she had missed the feeling of being complete and now she would have the power to transfer everything over to Naruto on the time of her departure. She smiled sadly as Minato passed on … she would never forget the man that had earned her respect.

Kushina turned to Naruto and grinned a very familiar fox-like grin, though it was laced with sadness and pain. Naruto knew that smile as he had smiled the very same smile often in the past but he turned his complete attention to his mother.

"It's time for me to depart as well Naru-chan," she whispered softly, so as not to upset the mood.

Naruto clung to her dress and looked to her, pleading for her not to go but she smiled sadly once more, "I will always be with you my child, whenever you use my chains and whenever you feel your Uzumaki Blood pulse with power, that is the remnants of our people and the proof that I am with you … so as your father said: Grow strong and break the cycle of hatred."

With that Kushina herself followed her husband's example and gracefully flowed through handseals with amazing speed. She completed the sequence and kissed Naruto's forehead, once again Naruto felt memories and knowledge flow into him, but there was something different with this knowledge … it flowed and assimilated much quicker than that of his fathers. Perhaps it was the Uzumaki Blood? Nevertheless; Kushina slowly removed her lips from her son's head and whispered a final goodbye before she too, departed to join her husband.

Kurama watched on with a teary expression as Naruto wept softly to himself. She never wanted to cause her Naru-chan more pain but this way he could take his parents with him forever more. Naruto didn't weep for long as he suddenly stood and turned to face Kurama with a burning inferno of power reflected in his eyes; Kurama gasped as she hadn't ever seen such resolve in anyone since her father.

"Kura-nee … teach me … teach me everything you know as I will not let my parents down!" he spoke with such resolve that Kurama smiled and nodded, just as resolved to the comment.

"Believe me Naru-chan … once I pass on my knowledge to you it will be up to you to uphold all of our legacies but I believe in you and I know you will do us all proud!" Kurama spoke seriously to him.

"I'll make you all proud Kura-nee … I swear it." He replied.

"You already have Naru-chan, but I believe the little surge of Chakra has drawn the attention of Asuma-san." Kurama replied with a smile.

Naruto 'eeped' in a not so manly fashion before adopting an adorable look of concentration and soon enough; he vanished from his mindscape leaving a blissful looking Kurama behind muttering about cute little brothers.

She snapped from her daze and immediately started on Naruto's mind. Within minutes Naruto would know everything his parents knew, he'd still have to train his arse off … but the knowledge would be immediately accessible.

..::..

Asuma had been standing outside of the room where Naruto was having his etiquette lessons with Madam Shinji when he felt an insanely strong pulse of chakra come from his destination, fearing the worst he burst into the room prepared for combat, only to see Naruto in his state of meditation with a frazzled looking Madam Shinji watching on. He had to stifle a chuckle at her appearance as whatever had happened with that surge had obviously caught her by surprise and caused her to be pushed back and now her appearance was dishevelled and messy.

Asuma carefully observed Naruto, looking for any anomalies that may be present and he got a surprise when Naruto opened his eyes.

Naruto right eye, instead of its endless blue colour was now a deep amethyst colour, reminiscent of his mother, Kushina's eyes and Asuma was unable to stop himself from gasping at the sight. Naruto now had two tone eyes … one endless blue that would make the sky or clearest ocean jealous and the other, an amethyst coloured eye that seemed purer and richer than even the most expensive gemstone.

He faintly heard Naruto whisper a goodbye to someone and hesitantly approached the child still seated in front of him.

"Naruto … can you hear me?" Asuma asked the unresponsive child, "Are you okay Naruto?"

Naruto glanced up to Asuma with his piercing gaze and spoke with a rather subdued tone, "Asuma-sensei … I would like to begin training the moment that I'm finished with Kaa-chan's lessons."

Asuma could only nod blankly and turned to Madam Shinji, who was still awestruck by her adopted son's new eyes … they were beautiful and added something that she couldn't quite place to his appearance.

"Sure Naruto but before we can start taking your training seriously … you need to be checked by Lady Tsunade." Asuma replied, "Once she's given you a clean bill of health and removed the seal then you can start training properly."

Naruto deflated slightly before perking back up moments later, "Then where is she? I wish to see her at once … please Asuma-sensei."

Asuma sighed but did so with a smile, "Very well, let's see your father after your lessons and see if she will consent to her check-up sooner."

Naruto smiled a truly beautiful smile at the two other people in the room before switching his gaze firmly to his adopted mother with anticipation shining deep within said gaze, his gaze had honestly startled Kaoru but it ignited something from within her and she began to teach him with a little more enthusiasm.

However, what Naruto didn't know was that now Kurama was complete, the pheromones that he was gaining control over had struck back with a vengeance, leaving a dazed Asuma to watch over the lesson.

..::..

Jiraiya, who had been spying on the pretty child's lessons on etiquette was trying to recover from the strain from his sensor technique that he had trained onto said child. All he knew one second was the child entering an impressive state of meditation, and then his whole body was exploding in pain the next … he had never felt such intense Yin Chakra before and with his technique active it caused him to feel as if his head and heart were about to explode.

There was definitely something going on if the child possessed that much chakra and he intended to find out what it was. He shuffled towards where he knew Tsunade was located, she needed to know that the child of interest wanted her appointment early.

..::..

When the Daimyo asked Tsunade if she minded moving up her schedule to provide medical assistance to his child, she was more than eager to start; especially since the revelation that the child possessed Senju Blood had become known. So it was with a bounce in her step that she entered the room where a slightly nervous child sat on the medical bed with an ever watching Asuma Sarutobi observing her every move.

Tsunade planted a soft smile on her face and gestured to the black haired woman who the child instantly recognised and flinched slightly, "My name is Tsunade Senju and this is my apprentice Shizune Kato … I'm sure that you're aware of the reason why we're here?"

Tsunade heard the sad sigh that escaped her apprentice and niece, she would've spoken up about it but the child started to speak, though whatever the adorable child was about to say was interrupted by a squealing, pink and red missile that impacted with the child's chest and caused said child to fall backwards.

"TonTon? What are you doing here … this is a medical area. Could you please not surprise me like that next time … and please get off of me." Came the voice of what sounded like an angel and Tsunade and Shizune both found themselves intoxicated by the sound.

The child sat up with a grace not seen in many and tilted her head softly to the side.

"If this is an official medical evaluation," the bell like voice chimed softly, "Then why did you bring TonTon Kato-sama?"

Shizune was mesmerized with her voice before she shuffled awkwardly and responded, "I'm sorry … uh; what is your name?"

Naruto blinked before remembering his lessons and bowed to both of the women gracefully, "I'm terribly sorry for my rudeness Kato-sama … Tsunade-sama … my name is Naru Shinji."

Shizune struggled but successfully supressed the urge to hug the child and continued, "I'm sorry Shinji-sama but when TonTon discovered that we would be evaluating your health … well she refused to stay back at the room, I think she wanted to see you again."

"I see … well, I mean no offense when I ask if we could please begin," Naruto responded, "It is my wish to be trained in the Shinobi Arts and I need your evaluation and those seals removed so that I can do so."

Naruto had looked directly into Shizune's eyes and she jumped before she realised something.

"Weren't both of your eyes blue this morning?" she asked with confusion lacing her tone.

"I'm afraid that my eyes have always been like this," Naruto lied, not very convincingly but Shizune seemed to buy it, "It must have been a trick of the light earlier."

Tsunade grumbled about being ignored and Naruto apologised before she started the procedure, whilst Shizune observed and documented her mentor. The dietary plan provided by the medics usually employed by the Imperial Palace had actually done a good job of fixing the malnourishment that was affecting Naruto's growth, but it wasn't good enough for Tsunade's tastes.

She explained that her chakra would now scan 'her' body to check for any irregularities and Asuma tensed in his corner of the room.

Needless to say both the ladies soon discovered that Naru was a boy and despite the oddity of the situation, continued as if nothing was wrong … but internally it was a different story.

Tsunade was overjoyed, her chakra had immediately resonated with the child's chakra and that cemented the fact that the child was in fact her Grandson. She would wait though, and confront the Daimyo after she had healed the poor boy, but there was something else going through her mind at the time.

'H-He's s-so … CUTE,' her inner fan girl screamed, 'I just want to hug him and … and …'

Her thoughts were cut off but it didn't stop her inner fan girl from having a nosebleed. Meanwhile Shizune could be seen wiping her nose on a nearby tissue … it wasn't commonly known but Shizune had a weakness for ALL things cute or adorable and Naru had it in spades ... she squealed in her mind, she was so lucky to have such an adorable relative.

Tsunade continued to scan and monitor Naruto's health for a further hour before finishing writing her analysis down and turning towards Asuma and Naruto.

"It appears that apart from the seals hindering you … you are well on your way to a complete recovery." She spoke happily, "But I would like you to meet me every morning after breakfast so that I can use a technique that I developed on you … it's just something to aid in your body's ability to absorb the nutrients that it's receiving … okay?"

Naruto nodded and smiled his soft smile before bidding them goodbye and leaving with Asuma, he had just reached the door when he turned slightly and asked when she would remove the seal (on Kurama's advice of course).

"Tomorrow night would be best so your body can sleep off any unpleasant side-effects," she responded after a moment's thought, "I'll also inform the man that will be removing your other seal of the same thing … understand?"

Naruto nodded and relayed the message to Kurama; once she was informed he; once again bid them goodbye.

..::..

Kurama pondered on the information that she had just received, the answers meant that she had until tomorrow night to summon Kami and the Shinigami to get their judgement and ruling for her destination … whether that be freedom (with catches) or punishment eternal.

'Well … no time like the present,' she thought quietly, resigned to her possible fates.

"I summon Kami and my Jailor Shinigami for my judgement regarding my fate." She spoke clearly and not a moment later both of the Deities appeared before her, both in an entrancing display of light and power.

Both Deities stood before her with a discernible expression adorning their faces. Their bodies weren't discernible as they were garbed in cloaks that made it impossible to see through and aside from the Shinigami's mask like face, it was impossible to gaze upon Kami's face.

"Please don't speak … j-just g-give me your verdict," she spoke humbly.

Kami regarded the submissive ex-guardian before her with an expression of sadness and the Shinigami with a look of bitterness … like a petulant child that had been reprimanded before they appeared.

"You … Do. Not. Make. Demands. From. Us!" Came the gravelly voice of the Shinigami, "I. Am. Not. Pleased. With. My. Sister's. Ruling."

Kami shifted a warning gaze to her brother and once she saw his cowed expression she spoke.

"My dearest Kurama … you lost your way for some time didn't you?" spoke Kami in her beautiful voice, "Fear not for your fate … your actions were not of your own control and the actions towards your host and his family have been taken into account. You are hereby sentenced to die in your current form."

Kurama blinked … her current form … what did that even mean? Kami must've expected the reaction so after a fluttering giggle she continued, "Your punishment is to die in your current form … but your reward and my gift to you is being granted leniency to return to the Kitsune Clan as a Kit though it will be with next to no power at your disposal. I know what it is you want … that you wish to stay with your host, however do not fret … your soul is bound to Naruto Uzumaki-Namikaze and as such … you have the opportunity to become his familiar once he summons for the first time."

Kurama began to cry, her tears of gratitude clear on her face but Kami was not done.

"A gift to young Naruto … our soon to be Guardian shall be for you to keep your memories … Naruto Uzumaki-Namikaze is in a fragile moment in his life and needs you now more than ever … guide him Kurama into being a true Guardian and in the words of his father … to 'end the cycle of hatred' on the physical/mortal plane."

"T-Thank you Kami-sama … Shinigami-sama." Kurama cried out in teary gratitude and aside from a snort of annoyance from the Shinigami, who'd otherwise been silent the entire time.

"We must be off Kurama … we have to deal with other affairs after all." Kami spoke softly and as Kami and Shinigami left all that could be heard was the joyous weeping coming from Kurama.

'I won't waste this opportunity … I swear it' Kurama thought to herself.

..::..

The time that passed by was far too quick for Naruto's tastes and soon enough it was time to remove the seals from his body. A comfort to the boy was that the Shiki Fūjin was no longer visible as it had dissolved after he had absorbed both of his parent's knowledge.

Since the previous day's examination, he had gone to Tsunade after breakfast and found her to be pleasant company, thus they'd bonded slightly during the time it took for her technique to finish and they'd promised each other to bond further as he was required to see her every morning for the next week or so.

Another pleasant change was the appearance of Maya Senna who 'checked out' according to his father. She was formally employed moments later, though she almost fainted when she found out that her 'angel' was in fact, a boy. It didn't deter her though and she worked hard … it was clear that her 'working mode' was not just for show and as such, her responsibilities were taken care of in a respectable and timely manner.

She did cry once Naruto informed her that her sisters could live with her in the Palace's servant's quarters and that she would not be charged to give them an education, nor would Maya have to pick up extra responsibilities as payment for her sisters staying. The only stipulation for them staying was that they behaved themselves.

After taking care of business with Maya, Naruto had bumped into a strange and oddly dressed man with long white hair. He introduced himself as Jiraiya and Naruto recalled the memories of his father in regards to the man; it was then Naruto understood that it would be this Jiraiya that would be removing the Heritage Seal off of his person.

Jiraiya seemed pleasant enough, though a bit perverted according to his father's memories but since he hadn't technically met the man personally, Naruto refrained from drawing conclusions from first appearances thus he was polite and courteous to Jiraiya; the man seemed to blush a lot around him though.

After that he had meditated and spoke to Kurama, who informed him of her fate. They both shared a joyous moment hugging each other as he was told that he could summon her … he then wasted no time and signed the Kitsune Clan Summoning Scroll with his blood. Naruto then painfully endured the transfer process of Kurama ingraining ALL of her knowledge to him. Shortly after recovering from the strain he was hugged by his elder sister figure and he bid goodbye to Kurama, who had decided to 'pass on' sooner, rather than later. It meant that he could summon her and be together physically and not just in his mind far quicker.

Soon night was upon them and Naruto walked into the prepared sealing chamber and sat in the centre of the Sealing Circle, as his mother and father's memories provided him the required procedure. Jiraiya and Tsunade entered not long after and wasted no time in preparing for the unsealing. At first Naruto thought that Tsunade seemed to freeze at the sight of blood but she seemed to resolve herself and powered on through writing the seal with her blood that was enhanced by her chakra. What Naruto didn't know was that it was he, himself that caused Tsunade to get over her fear of blood … she would NOT let her Grandson down.

Jiraiya watched the entire process with a hawk-like gaze, not intending for anything to go wrong with the proceedings for his Godson and once he was satisfied with Tsunade's work he proceeded through handseals and he sealed the room.

The Seals glowed a violent shade of red, the same colour as Tsunade's glowing blood, and then darkness took him.

..::..

Naruto woke feeling very groggy and stiff as he sat up, he noticed that he was in his bed. So the unsealing was a success then … the first thing he noticed was that his body felt much lighter than it had felt before, like his bone structure was different and that his hair had grown once more.

His hair had grown to about knee length if he guessed right and while long hair used to bother him, it was now Kurama's shade of blood red while it also just so happened to be the same length of his mother's hair as well … and with his mother's memories he didn't feel the need to want to cut it, in fact … if anyone dared to try to cut it then he would hurt them … very painfully.

Naruto spotted his mirror at the corner of his eye and struggled to remove himself from the confines of his blanket, making his way over he instantly spotted the fact that his skin had turned a shade lighter and was softer than before. His nails looked manicured and the previously light whisker marks were now completely gone.

His two toned eyes now glowed with a power of their own, and he found himself slightly upset that his eyes hadn't taken on Kurama's slitted look. His eyes now gave him even more of a 'cuteness' factor.

Naruto pouted to himself … why couldn't he look manlier and less girly?

His thoughts were interrupted by a gasp and a crash. He spun as quickly as his sore body would allow and came face to face with a shaking Maya, she was standing there with what appeared to be the remains of a basin that had been filled with warm water and a cloth.

"Y-You're awake!" Maya gasped.

Naruto was about to reply but found that he was too slow, as she'd already sprinted out of the room screaming that he was awake. Naruto blinked before he assessed his surroundings the room was now decorated with medical devices of many shapes and sizes, they beeped on occasion and it brought his thoughts to Kurama. Naruto's eyes widened and he did a quick check on his chakra.

'There should enough chakra.' Naruto reasoned.

He performed a quick check of his surroundings and after finding the size of the room suitable, he went through the memorised handseals.

"Kuchiyose no Jutsu (Summoning Jutsu): Kitsune Clan Leader," he cried and soon enough he found the room filled with smoke and a deep though feminine voice rang out throughout the room.

"It has been too long since I was summoned to this realm," spoke the voice, "Oh … you must be our newest summoner; Kurama-chan told us of you once she returned to our den."

The smoke cleared and sitting there gazing into Naruto's eyes was a Kitsune that he would later learn was actually in a shrunken form as to fit comfortably in the room, her true size would be about half a size bigger than Gamabunta. The Kitsune was a pure white colour with orange war markings on her face and possessed only a single tail but it looked like it could crush a mountain with ease … she reminded him of an Okami; just a fox instead of a wolf.

"I am called Kora young child and I am the current leader of the Kitsune Clan," the now named Kora stated, "I have already accepted you as our official summoner and as such you will be expected to learn our Ninja Arts along with the skills that we so excel in such as Seduction and Deception; until next time little kit but remember to summon Kurama … she has been worried these last 14 days."

"W-What … 14 days? I've been out that long?" Naruto stuttered and it was then that he noticed that his voice was even softer, and far more delicate than it was before … for that he cursed his luck but was interrupted as Kora nodded and disappeared in a gigantic puff of smoke.

Naruto immediately went through the same handseals and moulded his chakra; which again he noticed was calmer and more controlled, "Kuchiyose no Jutsu: Kurama."

In a smaller puff of smoke Kurama now stood before him although much smaller than their last meeting. Kurama was now about four feet tall standing on her paws and about identically wide in proportion to himself. The moment the smoke cleared completely he found himself tackled to the ground with Kurama licking his face like crazy.

"S-Stop K-Kura-chan, that tickles." Naruto giggled.

Kurama quickly stopped and looked to Naruto expectantly.

"Naru-chan you had me so worried," she replied softly, "I was so concerned after the first week of waiting but I couldn't come to your side without your summons."

"I'm so sorry Kura-chan, but I didn't know that it'd take that long to recover. After all, you never told me just how long it would take in the first place." Naruto murmured to Kurama, "Still I'm awake now and you're my familiar, not just any old summon. I remember you telling me that a familiar can stay in this world because you're bonded to me as my familiar … right?"

"Yes Naru-chan, I stay by your side as your summoned familiar unless called away on Clan business." Kurama replied, "Think of me as an Inuzuka Clan Nin-ken … just able to be summoned home in emergencies. Speaking of which, I have to go back for a Clan gathering that was postponed until you awoke … you can summon me back tomorrow okay Naru."

Naruto nodded happily and bid goodbye to his familiar … it filled him with a sense of joy that he was bonded so closely to his big sister figure.

It was at that moment that a group of people burst into his room with Tsunade at the forefront with her hands already glowing green, indicating her use of a medical jutsu. In one swift motion he found himself picked up and back into his bed with Tsunade vigorously scanning him, searching for even the smallest of problems. He pouted softly at being forced back into bed, he revelled in the gentle and warm feeling her chakra gave him but he waited for Tsunade to finish her examination.

She nodded confidently to herself and turned to the rest of the group and repeated the gesture, it seemed that he checked out and there were no problems.

Masahiko and Kaoru were first and they asked every question regarding how he was feeling, despite Tsunade's earlier confirmation that he was fine. Then Tora chose to be next when she simply bowled straight into him and purred loudly as she sniffed and licked at his cheek … showering him with her cat version of love. That was then interrupted by a joyously oinking TonTon who butted her head to Naruto's hand, showing her concern as well.

He smiled softly and informed them that he was feeling fine, perhaps he was just a little groggy though. They seemed to settle down and left him open for the others. It appeared that while he was asleep, Jiraiya and Tsunade had confronted his father about his true identity. They weren't upset with his adopted father but with Konoha.

Asuma and Chiriku, the latter just returning from scouting potential recruits, wished him well and were relieved that there were no complications with the unsealing and Shizune just muttered to herself about adorable relatives with a small trail of blood leaving her nose … unnoticed to her of course.

Tsunade and Jiraiya though had informed him that during the sealing, Kurama had explained the circumstances and that they no longer held allegiance to Konoha but to the Fire Daimyo directly and as such would protect him with their lives, though Jiraiya explained the necessity of maintaining his Spy Network and leaving a false trail for Konoha to follow.

It was then they explained the gruelling training that they, along with Asuma would put him through.

"Bring it on," was Naruto's reply, before he paused, frowned and then turned his gaze to his father.

"What about Yuki-kaa-chan?" Naruto asked softly, "What news is there about her condition?"

Masahiko and Kaoru shared a glance, then they both glanced to Tsunade – who glanced back to Naruto.

"W-Well … you see Naruto …" Tsunade fumbled awkwardly, "Yuki was grievously injured by the attack, in fact she only survived that because of your actions … I don't know if I can heal her."

Naruto turned his gaze down, struggling to breathe as tears threatened to escape, but anything he could say was interrupted by Tsunade's further statement.

"I said that I don't know if I can heal her," Tsunade reiterated, "But I know who can!"

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And there we go peeps … another chapter of the rewrite complete. I do apologise for leaving it on a cliff hanger but if I didn't, then those that read the original wouldn't have been satisfied with the result. I included various new scenes and re-edited others. I hope it makes more sense now.

Please be patient with me. I've only just escaped the hospital six to seven days ago, and I arrived home to find that my laptop has decided to die. Not completely of course, but I can only get about an hour of work done before it overheats and turns itself off.

This has obviously led me to complete as much of my work as possible, and its left me with very little time to write.

The next story to be updated as soon as I can.

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AS ALWAYS: PLEASE READ AND REVIEW!

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\^o^/