Hello once again, Blue here for another chapter of my oddly popular fic 'The Nine'. To post so much in such little time has been hell but with your support pushing me on, I'm enduring the pain my hands are shooting at me about it. Anyway, on with business! I don't own 'Naruto' but hopefully I'll get the entire series on DVD and manga. Enjoy!

"Iii" = speech

Iii = thought

Chapter 4: The Decision

For the second time that week, Sasuke Uchiha was staring openly from behind his ANBU mask at what was in front of him. That's Naruto's mother? I knew kitsune were masters of illusion but this is too real to be fake. In response, he'd activated his bloodline trait, the Sharingan to ensure that what he was seeing wasn't some phantasm of some sort. Finding nothing but a flesh and blood woman flowing with blazing red power much like her hair, thick as it was strong, he blinked the special vision away as Naruto stood by waiting for Tsunade to move the meeting forward. Or at least she would have if Kushina wasn't looking about as if she were a child seeing a new room of the house for the first time. It wasn't long before she was looking out the window, her wooden shoes clunking along the flooring in steady steps. Her violet eyes, deep and shining with curiosity, gazed out at Konoha with a look of pure wonderment. "So this is the Hidden Leaf village? It's more robust than I believed. A true marvel of architecture."

Nodding in her direction, smiling regretfully, Naruto spoke up once more. "It is oka-san, but sadly, you're not here to look at the view. We have pressing matters that require our attention."

At that, Kushina's face twisted in a grim look as she turned away from the window to face her son, marring her skin with the expression. "Yes, you mentioned that in your message but said little else. And why is that?"

"You see, Uzumaki-dono, a few weeks ago your son's student and fellow demon weapon wielder was attacked by unknown assailants and was brought here for treatment. We've since contacted your son so best to confer with him on how to proceed to ensure this wasn't the act of one of the villages that may, in turn, lead to war." Tsunade managed to say, her voice strong and firm, an obvious effort of getting over her awe of the new arrival.

When she'd spoken, Kushina had looked at the female Hokage with a level stare, taking each word seriously. After a moment she nodded, snapping her fan shut as she walked back to the center of the room next to her son. "Then you were right to seek me out my son, for this matter sound most grave. How is Gaara-kun?"

Naruto bobbed his head slightly, his own expression matching hers. "Well enough. The Sand-nin did what they could but had to be brought here for more advanced methods of healing. His recovery is slow but I shall see to his return to strength personally."

Again Kushina nodded, tapping her chin with her fan, the wood finish glimmering in the light of the sun coming through the window. "As you should. The Demon Tanuki clan would be most displeased otherwise for our alliance with them is the same as Konoha's is to Suna. It's new and unfamiliar but undoubtedly important to everyone. I'm assuming telling me this isn't all I'm here for."

This time Kakashi answered, stepping forward as he too looked rather grim, his only eye watching the red-haired woman with respect and caution. "No, in fact, from what your son has told us that speaking to you could get us the oni support we need to track these men and discover their intentions. Seeing how this is a joint venture, it's only right that someone of your standing and authority is given the proper knowledge before we move forward."

"You speak true shinobi-san and this does concern me greatly. To know my son and his comrades could be in danger of some group of madmen hoping to start up something the world isn't prepared for is a frightening thought. And my son as one of the targets? News that no mother should ever hear, for any reason be it good or ill." Kushina stated, frowning in true worry at her only child.

Naruto's serious look didn't change as he frowned in turn. "I'll be fine, thanks to what you and father taught me. Distressing I know but it's the truth and I won't shy away from a fight, not when they aim to bring bloodshed down on innocent people who deserve to live free of this scourge."

Violet eyes watched him for a moment before nodding slowly. "Brave words, and ones I'm unsurprised to hear from my child. You give this humble leader a chance to show her pride in her warrior." She stated, her voice lifted some with motherly pride.

"My honor is to serve." Naruto returned, smiling a little as he bowed at her again.

Tsunade stepped around her desk to join the pair, giving Kushina the most sincere look she could muster. Hazel met violet as she spoke, her voice firm and strong. "And ours is giving our aid in this matter, whether these men be human or not. A conflict between our peoples is something we the shinobi wish to avoid, if you'd assist us."

At that, Kushina truly examined the slightly taller woman, her own eyes become as hard as stone, gemlike in their brilliance. "Noble words from a noble woman... and noble promises from a truly honorably and noble village. A bond these filth had best dread 'fore their dying hour." Looking Tsunade in the eye she declared practically to the room. "I, Kushina Uzumaki, give my consent for the Demon Fox Clan to aid in this venture to rid our lands of this danger."

"And I Godaime Hokage Tsunade consent to shinobi of the Hidden Leaf giving aid to any oni operations in relation to this endeavor, and offer a chance for any worthy demon to join in ours when the need arises." Tsunade responded, smiling a little in relief and gratitude that their first meeting had gone so well.

Kushina smiled warmly in response, appearing just as pleased that they hadn't destroyed any relations with pointless fighting. "All I will present to my clansmen and our allies. Our response may take some time but I leave my son and heir here as my envoy. Through him, we shall speak to you. Through him, all shall become law and decree." Turning away from Tsunade, Kushina gave her son a look that spoke heavily of their professional relationship. "Serve us well, and make us proud my son. For this matters, not just to us, but everyone."

Gazing back at her just as coolly, Naruto gave his mother yet another bow, deep and clearly of great respect shown from subordinate to their leader. "You have commanded, and I obey. If it means that safety and peace comes to both sides, I shall die fighting if I must."

"I hope it doesn't come to that for a woman can have many children, but there is only one 'you'. To where do I send any message of progress?" she asked, the moment gone.

Naruto's answer came without hesitation. "The Uchiha district, and home of Fugaku and Mikoto. With them, kindness and honor both."

The red-haired woman smiled once more, as if his response amused her. "Reasons to be grateful to them for housing my son. I shall send word within the week." "Of anything of true import, he shall summon me as he has for this instance. For now, I bid you good day Hokage-sama."

"And to you Uzumaki-dono. May our next meeting bring peace to us both." The blonde woman stated, giving the red-head a respectful nod.

"That it may, though for now we shall see." Kushina said, giving Tsunade a nod in return before turning back to her son. "Five days, my son."

Naruto gave her a sad smile as he raised his hand to release the jutsu, holding off just long enough to respond. "Five days, oka-san."

She smiled just before she disappeared again, the loud pop and puff of smoke quickly ignored in favor of Naruto suddenly becoming unbalanced and nearly falling to the floor. As the closest to him, Tsunade swiftly caught him, the blonde man's blue eyes clouding a moment before clearing again. As he steadied himself, using a hand to rub his forehead, she looked at him with concern. "Are you alright?"

"Yes, I just need a moment. That technique is as unique as it is taxing. Also usually from shorter distances and more time to prepare though I've spent nearly all I saved for this moment." He turned to Shizune, he looked at the assistant imploringly. "Something to eat Shizune-san, if you can find it."

"At once Uzumaki-sama!" the small woman stammered as she was soon out the door and rushing to wherever food could be found in the building.

Once her aide was gone, Tsunade motioned for a chair to be brought over, the blonde man easing into it as the Godaime spoke again. "What will she do now?"

Settling into the chair, nodding his thanks to them, Naruto seemed to struggle with the question before answering. "Speak to our clan on what has happened since news between our peoples doesn't move very quickly. Now, it will spread like a plague, urging many sympathetic clans to arms. Should you get the other villages to agree, so will they to a point. My mother was heir-apparent in her time, same as me, and she's more adept at politics than I. Even if a few of our number refuse to help, you'll lack want for numbers. Our task now is finding the rest of my comrades before our enemy does, as well as speaking to the other villages for aid."

"Do you know where all your comrades are?" Kakashi asked from behind the chair, looking down at its occupant with a mix of awe and concern. As the man's friend, he was worried about his condition, though as a ninja he was impressed that someone so young could perform a jutsu that was clearly quite complex. Something to ask about later, if he's up to it. He thought before refocusing on the man.

Unaware of the jounin's train of thought, Naruto shook his head, answering more clearly as some of his discomfort began to ebb away. "I can dispatch messengers who usually find them easily enough. Where exactly I never truly know, seeing as how I rarely see them much less go beyond the Fire Country's border. Like most things in this, it will take time Hokage-sama. I'm sorry I can't yield more satisfying results at the moment."

"You've nothing to be sorry for. You did what you could and you can do much more later on, when you're rested. I'll get started on contacting the other villages though for now we can count on Suna's support in this. The rest, we'll have to wait and see." Tsunade told him as she sat back down behind her desk, watching Shizune come rushing back in as fast as one could with tea and a plate of dango. Pointing to the snack her aide provided, the blonde woman kept her voice firm with authority. "Get your strength back and send your messages. The sooner your people are warned, the better chance they have of getting to safety or fighting back."

"Wisdom, if nothing else." Naruto responded, accepting the food with a relieved smile before he was frowning at the Hokage again. "After I've done as you ask, I should begin seeing to Gaara's recovery and training. Send what information on the training grounds when it's ready. In the meantime, I trust your apprentice Haruno-san to tell me just what amount of care my student still requires when he's free to leave the hospital. This burden shouldn't be his siblings' sole concern while they're here."

Sitting back in her chair, Tsunade nodded at this. "Understandable and I agree. Alright, I'll send the training ground data when it's prepared but Sakura-san will have to guide you after Gaara's release. That information can't be confirmed until both my medics and I are certain he's in the clear and won't suffer any undue complications."

The blonde demon nodded in turn, eating the dango thoughtfully, the snack balls already bringing his lost vitality back. "A wise move, that I shall respect. As the leader of 'the Nine', I must trust your judgment on this. I shall be notified of changes?"

"Just as soon as I know them myself, same as you." Tsunade promised.

With one last sip of the tea and devouring the last dango, Naruto nodded his ascent to her words for he knew them to be true. "Then it's decided. I shall return to my new lodgings and begin my work, leaving you to your own." Stacking them carefully, Naruto stood back up and handed the dishes back to Shizune, his smile warm and appreciative. "Many thanks Shizune-san. It would be wise to keep more on hand for the next meeting, and not just for myself."

"I'll do my best Uzumaki-sama." The small, black-haired woman promised.

Chuckling a little the blonde man nodded at this. "Knowing your mistress, I know you will. I bid you good day Hokage-sama."

"And you Uzumaki-sama." Tsunade returned just as politely, watching the blonde and his ANBU guards head for the door, followed by Kakashi and his team.

Once out of the office, Itachi was the first to speak up in the quiet of the hallway. "Where to now, Uzumaki-sama?"

Looking back at the masked brothers, Naruto frowned a little as he walked through the curving hallway. "It would be unfair to have you follow me as you have. Go where you like, I plan on stretching my legs and looking about before heading back. I'll feel no insult if your duties call you elsewhere."

"I have a mission I have to prepare for in a few hours, will you be alright Sasuke?" Itachi asked, knowing that the other shinobi knew full well who they were.

Sasuke had to shake his head. "My shift at the hospital isn't for another hour. Besides, Sakura can go with him."

"What? Why me?" the pink-haired kunoichi exclaimed from behind them.

Pausing long enough to walk closer to her, Sasuke explained. "Because you're the only one he hasn't struck up a friendship with. Plus he requested that you give him medical instructions for his friend so getting to know him now could help later." At the woman's uncertain expression he sighed. "Just go with him Sakura. Keep him from getting lost."

"I could go wi-." Sai began to say, only for Sasuke to pull him back, the move silencing the unnaturally pale man.

Even with the mask in the way, everyone knew Sasuke was scowling at the man, speaking quietly so Naruto couldn't hear. "Oh no you don't. I may not know you but I've heard of your notorious language. And since I can't rely on Kakashi to do this, and you'll likely insult him in some way, go find something to do instead."

"But what if I wish to ask abou-?" Sai began to say again.

Sasuke's angered response stopped him. "Say it and I'll kill you right here." Letting the other man go, he openly glowered at him, annoyed by his fake smile. "And you wonder why people get so mad whenever you open your mouth."

"I'm working on it." the innocently smiling shinobi stated, though both his voice and expression seemed to lack the emotional backing, his façade only looking unnerving.

Just looking at it made Sasuke want to punch him but he only bit out. "I bet you are." Instead he spoke louder, tone respectful as he called to his former charge. "Until later Naruto-san."

Sakura looked at him just as Itachi disappeared, taking his cue to depart. "Naruto-san?"

"He insisted." Sasuke explained simply before vanishing himself. At that, Kakashi took his own hint and bodily dragged a confused Sai away in the opposite direction without a word, leaving the pair alone.

Taking it all in stride, Naruto smiled at her in his casual way. "That I did. No point in extensive formality when kinship will soon be obtained. With your guidance, I just might come to know this village as well as I know my own. Shall we go Sakura-san?"

Snapping quickly out of being left behind so suddenly with the man, the pink-haired kunoichi smiled as sincerely as she could to save face. "Of course, let's start by going this way. It would be wise to know where all the shops are should you feel the need to get something." She stated, pointing to their right and towards the merchant district of the small city.

Following her pointed finger, Naruto smiled in agreement. "Indeed, most prudent." Just as they stepped further into the sunlight, Sakura pulled the straw hat he'd given her, the grass-made covering oddly collapsible. As she put it onto her head, the fox demon grinned jovially at her, likely with a sense of pride. "And you still have the hat I gave you! Wise choice, I expect the sun will be most punishing today."

Blushing at him a little, Sakura nodded as she strapped it into place. "Yes, thank you for giving it to me. I was surprised to find I could fold it up though."

"A product of boredom you see." Naruto said flippantly, smiling casually. "You may lose it or it may fall apart but you'll still be able to use the one you have. It's a bit like origami, but with grass and straw rather than paper."

"Really? That sounds amazing!" Sakura exclaimed, honestly amazed at the man's feat.

His own cheeks turning pink for a moment, the blonde man seemed almost bashful at her praise. "It truly is. Naturally it took lots of trial and error but eventually I got it right. Much more convenient than carrying a large umbrella around, when you think about it."

"That it is. Here we are." Sakura pointed out the street ahead, both sides lined with stores and restaurants of all kinds.

As the pair stood at the corner, a woman with long straw blonde hair noticed them and immediately walked over to them, her dark clothes in contrast with the brightness of the day. Pastel green eyes flashed in challenge as she approached Sakura, calling out. "Is that you billboard brow?"

"Hello Ino-pig." Sakura returned with an annoyed scowl, Naruto watching on curiously but not interfering or looking even remotely disturbed.

Sakura's retort had the blonde looking angered but she covered it up well with a smug look that was less than kind. "You're one to talk, finally hiding that massive forehead of yours? And here I thought you'd never give in to your personal shame."

"Says the woman who still can't get a date for longer than a week, no matter what time of year it is." Sakura shot back, earning an angered shout from the woman.

"Why you-! Oh, who's this? Some sap you've conned into hanging out with you?" the blonde woman asked, leaning forward as she eyed Naruto with a knowing gaze. Naruto, much to Sakura's surprise, didn't seem all that bothered by Ino in the slightest.

Grabbing the woman by the shoulders, Sakura gently pushed her back, her voice coming out in an almost panicked hiss. "No he isn't and if you don't keep it together, you're going to inadvertently insult the envoy of the Demon Fox Clan!"

"Demon… Fox Clan?" the blonde woman asked hesitantly, her face turning pink with epiphany and embarrassment, glancing between the two in shock. "Are you serious?"

"Good morning miss…?" Naruto asked, tipping his hat at her and smiling good-naturedly as though she'd yet to say anything.

Taken aback the blonde woman almost couldn't respond. "Ino, Ino Yamanaka. This is my family's floral shop, I work here when I'm not on missions or something."

"Ah so you're a kunoichi along with Sakura-san then?" Naruto asked, ignoring the woman's bashful behavior, acting as though she'd just appeared.

Ino nodded, regaining her confident composure enough to cock her hip, giving him another more thorough once over. "I am. And I'm guessing you're here for that demon in the hospital."

At this Naruto frowned a little but nodded anyway. "Sadly I am. Things have taken a rather grim turn for him and our people. Hopefully with the help of your village, it won't explode into full-scale war." The moment passed and he was smiling kindly again, the expression open and reassuring. "Understandably that's the most I can tell you. Not unless you become directly involved of course."

"Sure, I get it. Did you just come from Tsunade's office?" the blonde woman asked, once again glancing between the two for the answer.

"That we did and Sakura-san has offered to give me a tour of the village so that my stay here will be more comfortable. I'd invite you to join us but I believe you have someone waiting on you." He pointed out, directing her attention back the counter easily seen through the open door of the floral shop.

"Oh, dammit. Just a second!" Ino called to the waiting customer before turning back to the pair, looking to her counterpart. "Hey Sakura, we still on for lunch?"

"Yeah, if I can make it." Sakura said with a nod, waving to her as she turned back to her family's business.

Smiling happily, Ino called with a wave as she jogged through the door and back into the chill provided by the store's natural shade. "Cool, see ya!"

"Until next time Ino-san!" Naruto called in turn, the pair soon walking down the street as he remarked to his escort. "She was interesting."

"Really?" Sakura asked, finding it hard to believe that a guest of the village would take such a sudden interaction in stride like that.

Beside her, Naruto bobbed his head, smiling almost whimsically. "Indeed. Seeing you two fighting reminded me of my cousin Karin. That woman always spins things out of proportion, it's a wonder anyone gets along with her at all. One can hope she finds someone who can handle her… outbursts."

"When did you last see your cousin?"

Glancing at her, Naruto frowned as he searched his memory for the answer. "Karin? Oh… ages ago. At least five years if I recall." He hesitated, as if regretting his next words. "Our relationship is friendly at best."

"And at worst?" Sakura pressed, though gently.

The blonde man's gaze was far off, as if recalling it all moment for moment. "Our parents would yell, telling us not to fight. Cut my arm pretty bad, blood everywhere. It's a wonder our healer could stop it all." He stated casually.

"That sounds horrible!" Sakura exclaimed, shocked that small children, related or not would hurt each other in such a way.

But Naruto waved away her concerns. "It wasn't too bad. We were children and it hurt worse than it was. She still feels bad about it, even now. We write but little else."

Sakura nodded, accepting the information, since the blonde man had yet to lie to her about anything. "But you're still not on good terms with her?"

"Not as good as our parents would like, yes. What's this here?" he asked suddenly, pointing to the large three story building to their right, the familiar sign and yard with the large tree in it making Sakura smile fondly.

"This is our ninja academy. All children who are from ninja families come here to learn their trade. Some come here from normal families if it's discovered they can use chakra and have the potential to be shinobi. The rest go to a different school not far away, go into apprenticeships to learn the trade that interests them." She stated informatively at him, gazing at the tree and its lone swing, easily recalling the memories that came with it and the school.

Beside her, unaware of her musings, the blonde demon smiled with his own level of fondness at the large structure. "Yes, that sounds about right. My people have our own schools, mostly separated by skill level and age. Naturally all are treated the same and with fairness as I see here. I've seen schools like this in one or two of the other villages though and I didn't like what I saw." He frowned deeply, the shade from his hat hiding his eyes. "Some were harsh and demanding, the Hidden Mist especially was downright cruel. To see children treat other children in such a way, just because they were weaker, slower? Made me sick. I'm glad to see that it's different here."

"I didn't mean to remind you of such a place Naruto-san." Sakura soothed after a moment, her own face a sad mask as she knew what he spoke of. Though she didn't need to see the Hidden Mist's school to know it was harsh.

Shaking his head to rid his mind of the memories, Naruto spoke more assuredly when the images were gone. "No it's alright. I realize this village is different from the others. Perhaps, in time, the other villages will do the same."

Sakura smiled, nodding. Such was also her hope for not all the villages could function under the constant need for warfare for much longer. Just as they were about to leave for another section of the village, a small boy ran up to them from the schoolyard where a number of parents and their children were gathered, possibly to take them home. The boy's brown hair and black eyes were separated by old goggled, the green band contrasted only by his pale yellow shirt, dark short pants and navy blue scarf that was longer than he was tall. Pointing his juvenile finger right at Naruto, he loudly shouted for all around to hear. "I challenge you!"

"Huh?" Naruto responded, honestly confused as he looked behind him before looking down at the child, perplexed. "Challenge who?"

"You! With the sword! You're strong right?" the boy demanded, still pointing at Naruto with an all-too-serious look on his small face that looked almost ridiculous.

Once again more than willing to go along with the situation, Naruto frowned at the boy and responded without missing a beat. "One should hope so, else how would I stand up every day?"

Thrown off by his response, the boy glared. "That made no sense."

"Sensei? I'm not your teacher!" Naruto exclaimed, knowing that by now they had an audience, all of whom were trying not to laugh. Beside him Sakura was holding back her own chortles of amusement.

Angered even more, the boy fumed, his face turning red like a tomato. "That's not what I said!"

"Said what?" Naruto asked innocently, tilting his head.

"Quit it!" the boy demanded, his small voice almost a shriek.

Still Naruto kept it up, looking about curiously. "It? It where?"

"Stop it!" by now the boy's scratchy voice was close to shrill.

Naruto scowled, continuing to play dumb with the child. "Stop what?"

"You're making me mad!" the boy declared, once again pointing his finger accusingly at the blonde man.

"Who's dad?"

"Not 'dad'! Mad! Mad, mad, mad, mad!" the child shouted, hopping up and down in place to emphasize his point.

"Why are you shouting?" Naruto asked oh-so-casually, which was enough to have the boy in front of him turning purple.

Just as the boy was about to pop a blood vessel and explode, a man dressed in black ninja attire, coupled with a dark bandanna and glasses, the man came running from the school building calling frantically. "Konohamaru-kun! Leave that man alone!" he said, coming to a halt between the trio, Sakura easily identifying the man as Ebisu, one of the school's instructors. Bowing deeply to Naruto, Ebisu spoke respectfully and with obvious regret over the boy's actions. "I'm so sorry sir, please forgive my student. He can be a bit excitable at times."

Smiling widely at the chunin, Naruto waved away the man's apology. "No, no it's alright sir, this has actually been most amusing. To see such spirit in one so young is interesting." In an instant his face took on an almost hardened edge. "But I see no reason to deny this youngling what he seeks."

Beside him, Sakura's jaw dropped as her response came in a tone of surprise. "What?"

The teacher and student were so taken aback by it, they both responded in unison. "Huh?"

The smile still in place, Naruto once again nodded, somehow still playing it cool. "I accept his challenge, though I think my sword may be a bit too much for him. Instead, I shall simply use my hands."

"You'll regret it, old man." The boy stated, grinning triumphantly.

Inwardly panicking, Sakura leaned forward, her voice coming forth in a shrill whisper, honestly wanting to know what this man was thinking. "Naruto-san, what're you doing?!"

"Testing a future ally and friend. Wouldn't you?" he responded easily, almost perplexed by her response.

"Well yes but not like this!" she scolded, only to find him waving away her concern.

"I won't hurt the child, merely show him he's overstepping himself." turning to Ebisu, he spoke more loudly and assuring to the instructor. "I assure you sir, just think of it as a lesson on humility. Should you feel it's going too far, feel free to stop him at anytime."

"Naruto-san!" Sakura protested once more, only to be ignored as the pair moved into the soft open space of the schoolyard, the blonde using the large tree there as shade while the boy stood in the sun's heat.

Ever confident and grinning, the young boy pulled a kunai from a pouch at his back. He flashed the sharp blade as if to try and intimidate Naruto, who didn't react to seeing the knife in the slightest. Irritated he didn't get the desired response, the boy yelled loudly again. "You ready, old man?"

Blue eyes watching unblinking at the child from under his hat, already taking into account they'd acquired an audience to the child's odd spectacle. Giving the boy a kind grin, the blonde demon nodded at him as he spoke in cool tones. "Seeing as this is your challenge, I allow you to take the first strike."

"Have it your way." The boy stated, flipping the blade around so the metal loop was between his forefinger and thumb as he charged with a might roar. "YAAH!"

Behind him, the various parents and kids gasped in shock that what they saw was actually happening, Naruto not even flinching as the child came at him full speed. Just as the child was about to reach him though, as Konohamaru jumped at him, Naruto merely swatted him aside as if striking at a fly. Sent spinning but not deterred, Konohamaru landed on his feet, sliding to a halt and came at him again. Anticipating him with almost endless patience, Naruto merely spun so that the boy went past him, leaving them back to back. By now the crowd was watching in awe of things rather than fear that one of them could be hurt, only making Konohamaru all the more irritated and thus, clumsy. His long navy blue scarf billowed in his wake as he charged the blonde man once more with an angered yell. Only this time Naruto wasn't playing around. His sky blue eyes flashed as the child came at him, once again spinning around his opponent only this time he used it to his advantage. With a sweep of his leg, the boy was off his feet and in the air, dark eyes wide in shock as the blade fell from his grip, Naruto grabbing it. As Konohamaru's back collided with the ground, Naruto threw the blade to the ground after him but some distance away so not to hit the boy. Stunned, the boy looked at him with wide eyes from where he lay on the ground.

Looking down at him, with neither respect nor contempt, Naruto spoke in the quiet that'd fallen over the schoolyard. "Next you wish to fight, choose those you are certain you can defeat and not those you should know are your betters. If you wish to follow this path, choosing your battles will be key to success. Ignore this, and you shall see what happens to fools who don't think ahead, fools who doom more than just themselves." His face and tone softened after a small pause, the boy on the ground staring up at him in wonderment. "Take heart, however, that even as I beat you fair and square, it did nothing to that spirit that's so vital to this village." At that he turned away, leaving the child where he'd fallen, ignoring all who gaped as he moved.

"Was that really necessary Naruto-san?" Sakura asked as the blonde rejoined her by the fence of the schoolyard.

He frowned but nodded at her question, perfectly serious for once. "Some learn that lesson too late. It's best he learns it now, or he shall not get far." Looking at Ebisu, he nodded respectfully at the teacher. "As I said sir, I wouldn't hurt the boy. Use his energy wisely and he may go further than even you readily believe."

"Ah…right." Ebisu managed to say, bowing at Naruto as he and Sakura turned away to continue on.

"Shall we?" he asked, once again bearing a polite smile to his guide.

"R-right, this way." Sakura managed as she pointed to a street corner some distance ahead of them.

The blonde demon nodded, bidding her take the lead again. "By your leave."

The rest of their journey through the village took most of the day, the two stopping at a small restaurant for lunch before she finally guided him back to the Uchiha district, at which point he dismissed her. Knowing he wanted to find his own way back, Sakura waved goodbye before jogging off to get back to her own work, leaving the blonde to his musings. But rather than making his way back to the house, he instead wandered off to one of the nearby training areas, walking slow but deliberate. Extending his senses almost to their limit, Naruto was pleased to find that there was no one about save the occasional bird. Still moving with casual purpose, the blonde demon walked some distance into the open space, gripping the edge of his hat as he spoke loudly, seemingly to no one. "You can come out now."

Like ghosts out of mist that didn't exist, the two men appeared behind him, gazing at him cautiously. Both were dressed in long black cloaks with red clouds, one with a black hood and odd green eyes, the other bare faced and smiling deviously. His green eyed companion spoke in a low, gruff voice. "You sensed us? Interesting, you must be more skilled than you let on."

"Masking your chakra so close to the home of one of Konoha's prime clans, and in a ninja village no less…. you're either very talented or very foolish." Naruto commented as he turned to face the pair, eyeing them both curiously. "What you do now decides which."

The second man, seemed to be the only one with a weapon, an odd red scythe with three blades on it, while his friend didn't seem to have even a sword on hand which Naruto thought to be very odd. His hard, purple eyes gleaming with ominous glee, grinned a little wider at him. His hair was platinum like Kakashi's but was swept back and lacked the healthy sheen the jounin's own locks possessed. "At least your friend was smart to be scared, knowing he was outnumbered and outmatched."

Surprised at the confession, Naruto blinked but didn't move. Even from what distance there was between them, he could tell these two were bound to be trouble. "That was you? You hurt my friend?"

"Not us per se but we were there, hurt our friends pretty bad getting away. Definitely surprised us. You though? We're ready for you." The green eyed man admitted, his face hidden by his hood and the cloak's high collar. The unnatural orbs narrowed in annoyance. "Give us the sword and we won't hurt you."

Feeling his rage at the pair beginning to boil, Naruto sneered, his eyes already shifting from their sky blue to blood red, the pupil dilating in response. "I will not. I'll not hand over something so valued to someone so base."

That was enough to have the silver haired man glaring and snarling. "What'd the fuck did you say?!"

"Don't get riled by him Hidan. We're here for a job, not your stupid religious crap." The hooded man said to his companion, who only glared at him.

"He called us 'base' Kakuzu, can you at least be a little insulted?" he growled at his partner, already gripping the long red shaft of his three bladed scythe.

Kakuzu didn't seem all that hard-pressed to rise to his partner's demand. "He's the heir of the Demon Fox Clan and he's probably stronger than you think. Rushing in would be foolish." He scolded his partner before turning back to Naruto, once again loudly demanding. "One last chance: give us the sword."

"Even if I did, its power could kill you should you try to use it." Naruto warned, already shifting his feet into a defensive stance but made no move to grab the sword's hilt.

Green eyes, bright and venomous, narrowed once more in growing rage. "We'll take that chance. Now give it to us before this gets ugly."

"Then let's make it atrocious." Naruto stated before bringing a hand up, using the simple hand sign to send a giant wave of power into the ground beneath them.

"Whoa! What the-?" the platinum blonde named Hidan was barely able to say more as more roots came piercing out of the ground at them, forcing the pair to back away. Kakuzu used the protruding limbs to jump and dodge more of them while Hidan's movements were more panicked than skillful even with his huge scythe in hand. Naruto didn't move or comment on this as concentrated another sliver of power into his jutsu, the very earth shifting to obey as he willed it towards his two opponents. Again the pair was forced to move out of the way should the mass of wood and earth catch them, forcing them into retreat.

If all this use of power doesn't signal the village that something's wrong than all this activity certainly will. I have to hold them off until help arrives. They're risking quite a bit taking me on as they have. But they've yet to attack. Why? He got his answer as the hulking form called Kakuzu pointed an arm at him, his gray flesh seeming to come alive as many black tendrils came forth from neat gaps by his elbow. Shocked by this, Naruto knew by then he was in some serious trouble. And that would be it. He thought as he finally moved out of the way of the seeking limb and its many black strings. Using the surrounding earth to his advantage, Naruto willed a wall to come between him and his attacker, a barrier springing up quickly to block the thing's path. Or at least it should've if the almost disembodied limb didn't bust through it first. Shocked but knowing better than to panic, Naruto continued to jump away from the limb as he used more earth and tree roots to try and slow it down. It almost wasn't enough as the limb was forced to retreat in favor of another tactic, a shadow coming from above alerting him to where the man called Hidan had gone. With a wild and crazed shriek of delight, the man came flying down at Naruto with his scythe in hand, the triple blades shining in the summer sun with ominous intentions. Everything seemed to move in slow motion for the blonde demon, giving his mind enough time to spot the odd talisman that'd swung into view, giving him all he needed to know that dodging this man's attack was vital. With another tiny expenditure of energy, Naruto willed the earth enclose him in a barrier against the blades.

The walls of dirt and solid earth were just in time to stop the trio of curved blades from finding their mark. Blood red eyes quickly adjusted to the dark as he began to concentrate, easily ignoring his opponent's loud curses at being foiled so easily. Already he could hear them digging at the barrier between them, the many layers keeping them occupied just long enough for Naruto to prepare his next set of moves, and for help to arrive.

Over a half-mile away, Kakashi was wandering the streets in search of something to do when a wave of energy hit him like a hot blast of air. It had such intensity it nearly made the jounin stumble in surprise, while others around him, mostly shinobi, also jumped at the massive pulse of chakra. One chunin was so surprised, he almost choked on a piece of bread he'd been eating, forcing a friend to help him get it down. Turning to look at the direction it'd come, Kakashi knew without a doubt whose energy it was. Though a bit more concentrated and much stronger, it was undoubtedly Naruto's chakra, having felt it earlier that day in Tsunade's office when he'd summoned his mother for their meeting. As far as he knew, there was no need for Naruto to be expending any more energy, for any reason, immediately raising his suspicions at why the demon would be doing anything that required such power. His back straight and casual demeanor shed like a cloak, Kakashi called to the closest chunin with a cold voice. "You there! Tell every jounin you can find to head for the training sector near the Uchiha district! And have someone get the ANBU mobilized!"

"Y-yes sir!" the poor man responded, moving to act as instructed despite being on break and at lunch. The rest were already moving to obey though Kakashi had yet to address them, knowing that their companion would need help. Ignoring everyone else completely, Kakashi was already on the move, running before jumping up to the roofs and saw he was not the only one making their way towards the chakra signature. Some distance he saw several of his fellow jounin who he knew from his academy days, all of whom were focused on getting to the source of the odd activity. The closest he recognized as Asuma Sarutobi, one of his best friends and son of the Third Hokage before he died fending off an attack from rogue ninja. Dressed similar to Kakashi, Asuma differed mostly with his metal bracelets and sash with the 'fire' symbol around his waist. As usual, the brunette had an unlit cigarette between his lips, the man spotting him quickly and jumped over.

"Hey Kakashi I thought you still had guard duty." His companion's deep voice pointed out, giving his friend a grim smile as greeting.

Beside him, Kakashi nodded, also appearing serious. "I did but he dismissed me for the day. Now I guess that wasn't such a bright idea."

"You know whose chakra that is? It's packin' quite a wallop." Asuma commented as he looked ahead to see a large cloud of dust appear well past the town's edge.

"Yes, it's Uzumaki-sama's. The fact that he's letting off that much power should tell us that something's wrong. He requested training area information just this morning. To go ahead and use one of the sectors so quickly isn't like him" Kakashi stated, scowling at the cloud as if it were an ominous sign.

Next to him, Asuma scowled in turn, a glint in his eye sparking to life at the mention of the demon's name. "Kinda odd to think you'd say somethin' like that. You've only known the guy for almost two weeks and already you're predicting his actions?"

"He's from a noble household, where procedure and rules are a constant. Thankfully he's not stiff and uptight about everything." Kakashi remarked.

At that, Asuma winced, suddenly appearing hesitant. "Wait…which Uzumaki is it?"

"Huh?" Kakashi looked at his friend as if he'd just said something very unusual, which he had. "The…blonde one?"

Once again Asuma winced. "Shit."

"Something wrong Asuma-san?" Kakashi asked, gazing at his friend in confusion.

Smiling in regret, a bead of sweat coming down the side of his naturally tan face, Asuma tried to hold back a nervous chuckle. "This might not go as well as you might think."

Sakura found herself running back the way she'd come just as soon as she felt Naruto's chakra sweep through the village like a tidal wave. It had sent a shiver through her, quickly realizing just whose energy it was, having felt it in close range that morning. The fact that he was letting it off again so soon was warning enough that something was amiss, especially when the wave seemed to disappear once it passed her by. After that, it was almost as if the wave hadn't existed until another one, just as strong and prompt as the first went by before it too faded away, making the pink-haired kunoichi focus on the chakra's source. After half a moment of concentration her eyes had widened in shock at sensing not just one but three signatures, two of which she'd never sensed before. Even as she got closer she could tell the two strangers were unusually strong, making a cold chill run down her spine. A blur of color out of the corner of her eye distracted the chunin kunoichi found she wasn't the only one headed for the training area, but rather every able bodied jounin. Though from a great distance, Sakura was sure she saw a few ANBU as well. Seeing so many on the moved raised her spirits with the thought she wasn't going to be facing these strangers alone. Yet another chill went through her when she saw a massive plume of dirt and dust rose into the air in an explosion of energy and force. In the back of her mind she knew she wasn't as powerful as jounin but being Tsunade's apprentice, Sakura knew that those around her would obey her regardless. "Everyone, it would seem two intruders are attacking our guest, the envoy of the Demon Fox Clan. He's wearing a blue yukata and a straw hat, we must protect him as best we can. It's believed that someone is targeting him and the one in the hospital. Capture the intruders if you can, kill them if you can't. Understood?"

"Yes ma'am." Those around her called out in unison, those too far away given her instructions by those close by. Green eyes hard as stone, Sakura braced herself for a hard fight ahead.

Naruto let out a huff of relief when he saw his attack had worked, though it'd created an uplift of loose dirt and dust between him and his opponents. The silver-haired man named Hidan had broken through his earth made dome barrier after some few moments of slashing angrily at it, Kakuzu standing by almost bored. Once the dome's roof was broken and a sliver of light came through, blocked by Hidan's inquisitive, if angrily glaring face Naruto proceeded to send his next jab through the hole. A ball of whirling air and blazing blue chakra was thrust into the man's face, crushing his nose and sending him flying in a wild spin of limbs and dead weight. The blonde demon half expected the man to simply lay still and his partner would take over but to his curiosity and horror, the silver-haired maniac slowly got up, his face marred by blood and dirt as well as an enraged glare. Naruto glowered in return but said nothing as the man began to yell and curse most foul at him and Kakuzu. Watching both of them carefully from his miniature fortress, Naruto was already planning his next attack. He's clearly very strong and skilled though he doesn't seem all that of an intellectual. All he does is rush in and starts swinging. What's more he barely responds to being injured, fatally or otherwise. Just what one would expect from a follower of that foul cult. The blonde demon thought, brought out of his ponderings by the nagging sensation of many signatures headed right for them. If the two before him noticed, they gave no sign, likely didn't know or simply didn't care. That alone alarmed Naruto, instantly regretting his signaling practically the entire village that something was amiss. Still he did his best to come up with a quick solution, preferably with little bloodshed.

The first to appear were various jounin and chunin that Naruto had yet to meet or had even seen during his walk-through of the village. He could tell a few even recognized him from seeing him around. As expected, he even saw a few ANBU among them, all gazing at the cloaked pair with open caution and hostility. A scuff of shoes landing around and on top of his earthen dome, Naruto looked up and out at the familiar face of Kakashi that spoke to him with honest concern. "Are you alright Naruto-san?"

His face a grim mask, Naruto nodded up at him, thankful the older shinobi didn't question why his eyes were red. "Yes, I've been able to hold them off with little consequence. Have everyone take caution however: the man with the scythe is a follower of Jashin and it will mean certain death for any cut by his blade. Once he has but a small sample of it, he will consume it and any caught in the jutsu is doomed unless you can keep him from drawing his cult's circle. If he does make it before you can stop him, do your best to knock him out of it and the jutsu will fail. Destroy it immediately so he can't step back on it and revive the technique."

"And you know this…how?" a deep male voice asked from the side, from a man he couldn't see but still responded to.

"I've met him only today but I've heard of him and his like. He's most famous due to his excessive devotion to Jashin and its doctrines. I'm not certain of his partner's abilities, but something about him smells rotten though. It seems he's letting him do all the fighting."

"We'll keep that in mind. Can you get out on your own?" Kakashi asked, seeming to examine the hole in the dome that Hidan had made, the jagged opening big enough for Naruto to fit on of his arms and his head through.

Frowning, Naruto just shook his head. "I can but I shouldn't. Their target is me and this cover is useful for giving me ample chance to prepare my more advanced techniques. We must give them something to focus on else they might start killing with abandon. Until a strategy can be devised on how to capture or kill them, delaying them or driving them away are our only options right now. Asking me to leave is futile, seeing as how I'm their goal. Leaving you who are sworn to defend me behind is something I'll never do."

"But Naruto-san, they could kill you no matter what we do!" he heard Sakura declare off the side.

Naruto couldn't help but smile at her concern but the expression died swiftly. "True, but we must devise their intentions for the demon weapons. They may be human but this is also a problem for the demon community. Letting these two and any others they are allied with roam free is an issue for everyone." He stared meaningfully up at Kakashi, how was still looking down at him. "They wish to fight, so I shall."

"That might not be a smart move kid, just go with some of our comrades to safety and we'll deal with them. Your wellbeing is our job, not the other way around." The gruff voice retorted lazily, a voice Naruto was certain he'd heard before but decided to leave it be.

He had bigger things to worry about. "Again, truth but I'll still not leave the field. They have also stirred my wrath."

"Oh? How'd they do that?" the unnamed voice asked, knowing that anyone within earshot was just as curious.

Even though his face was hidden from most everybody, that didn't keep Naruto from glaring at the pair some distance away, fury etched onto his normally carefree features. "They were witness to the attack on my student. As believed, they said their friends were injured because they were foolish. These two have yet to do anything to truly harm me, which means they intended to wear me down to steal the sword I bear or kill me so to take it from my corpse. Either way, allowing them to escape unscathed isn't an option."

"You lot done yakkin'? You're makin' me bored!" Hidan called out in obvious displeasure at the newcomers to the battlefield. The man was also looking more impatient with the changes as well.

Next to him Kakuzu glared but didn't move. "Shut up Hidan, there's no point to your complaints. They may have us outnumbered, but we have them outmatched." Raising a hand, he pointed at someone off the Naruto's left, likely one of the shinobi who'd appeared to assist him in fending them off. "Besides, I recognize that one…he's worth a lot on the black market. A bounty I intend to collect."

Much to his surprise, the gruff voice answered the rogue ninja's call. "Know me do ya? Then I don't see why I shouldn't be your opponent."

Face completely red with anger and exasperation, Hidan snarled at his partner. "Damn you and your constant need for cash! We're here for a job you self-centered fuck!"

Kakuzu's eyes widened a fraction, his voice lowering in his own growing ire at his companion. "Shut your mouth! You have your vice and I have mine. And I plan on getting some real reward out of this. You can do what you want."

"Fine by me. It seems I've got quite a bit of work ahead of me." Hidan grit out before smiling madly at the surrounding shinobi, waving his scythe around at them. This made a few flinch as he taunted them. "Just try and kill me you useless bunch of assholes! I dare ya!"

"You wish to die?" Naruto asked from his miniature fortress, making Hidan look at him with mild puzzlement. Glaring at the irritating man, the blonde demon growled out. "Allow me to oblige you."

What happened next was so shocking, most didn't know how to react to it: rather than sticking his arm out of the hole Hidan had made in his rage, the ground rumbled a bit as what sounded like many blazing orange hands, clawed and made of chakra, burst from the earth. The silver-haired rogue ninja almost didn't move in time, only two of the hands grabbing his leg before he could get too far away. The limbs, bubbling and giving off enormous heat, all moved as one to further snag the man, a few even wrenching the triple bladed scythe out of his hands as they pulled him to the ground. More shot up where Kakuzu stood but he jumped just in the nick of time, darting away as they hands sought him out. Enraged and cursing in loud yells, his words filthy as they were scathing, Hidan struggled as best he could before one set of clawed hands went around his neck and forced him to lie face-down on the earth. Kakuzu retained his good luck by jumping again and again, even using his own tendrils to fend off the seeking hands chasing him so doggedly. But no matter what he tried, the ones he destroyed only reformed and came after him with renewed insistence. Letting out a guttural growl, the hooded man batted away more seeking hands before sending himself soaring towards the distance. Giving them all one last look, ignoring his partner's indignant shouting, demanding he come back and free him, Kakuzu bounded off further into the training area and away from the village. In response, a good majority of jounin and ANBU went running after him, yelling for him to come back and submit to being arrested. Still being held to the ground, Hidan continued to curse and rave as he wiggled like a fish on the ground, his purple eyes glaring defiantly at those around him. When some of the shinobi got close enough, two of the hands extended, holding the scythe for them to take. A smaller hand extended just long enough to break the steel cable binding it to the fallen rogue before they vanished, leaving the ones that still had him pinned.

Letting out a low whistle, Asuma nodded his appreciation at the blonde demon still hiding in his earth made dome. "Nice job kid. Pretty sure it's safe to come out now."

"Most assuredly Sarutobi-san." Naruto stated confidently, giving the older man a smile and a nod as his eyes returned to their natural blue.

Surprise blooming on his face, Asuma's cigarette almost fell from his open mouth, his dark eyes wide. "You remember me?"

Chuckling, Naruto gave his hat a nudge as he spoke. "Certainly! Though it's been many years, the fact that you're still kind-hearted is a relief indeed."

"You know Asuma?" Sakura asked, moving towards them as she looked between the two men in curiosity.

Glancing her way, Naruto nodded in affirmation. "Briefly, as a child but the memory is quite vivid even now. He got lost and ended up on my family's grounds where I would sometimes wander and play in. it's a wonder he got away before my father killed him!"

"Hehehe, a misunderstanding." Asuma said with a nervous laugh, scratching the back of his head with an equally nervous smile.

Letting out another hearty chuckle, Naruto went on. "Sarutobi-san was the first human I'd ever met and made a very good impression. Sadly my father and the guards all thought he was there to kidnap me." He gave the taller man a wide grin. "Good thing for you I was able to allay such fears once you'd gone."

Finally laughing in turn, Asuma finally relaxed. "Yeah I always wondered when your old man would hunt me down. How is he anyways?"

"He is dead." The blonde deadpanned, remaining casual as ever.

Taken aback, Asuma and those listening appeared surprised then regretful. "I-I'm sorry to hear that."

"Though not natural, he felt nothing. I've since settled that issue." Naruto stated with a calm finality that sent a shiver through all those within earshot. Only Kakashi didn't react, having heard the story already.

Regaining his composure, Asuma smiled at the blonde demon. "Did you, now? Seein' how you 'settled' this I don't doubt it." he said, pointing a thumb at the still struggling and cursing Hidan as he was hauled away by a number of shinobi. "Either way we need to get out of here before he or his friend get their second wind."

"A wise suggestion Sarutobi-san, one I'll surely follow once this man has been secured." Naruto said, his expression turning grim again. "Our conflict was brief but something tells me that his companions are likely as strong or much stronger than him."

"All of which we'll find out, for now I'll have some of these shinobi guide you home Naruto-san. Tsunade-hime has likely been informed and will post guards around you and Gaara-san before the day is out." Kakashi said, giving the blonde a calm look. "You've done your part, now let us do ours."

Blue eyes watched the silver haired shinobi a moment before he finally nodded in agreement. "Only on the stipulation that I take over where you fail, should you fail. I'll kill him myself if it comes to that." Looking about him, Naruto raised his voice a bit so those around them could hear. "Until then, I shall trust my protectors to do their duty. I still have work of my own to do. Many thanks to you and your brethren, for your quick response to my call for aid and with such bravery. Knowing now that its reliability, expect further use should this situation arise again."

"Y-yes sir." A couple of them said, some blushing at his piercing scrutiny while others leaned into one another to whisper to one another like students spreading rumors. Ignoring their reaction completely, Naruto turned away to casually wander away, nodding and smiling at his newly appointed escorts kindly as he went. Still he didn't ignore everyone, bidding those who moved to give him passage kind words of farewell and good luck. The walk to the house took all of ten minutes, after which he bid his escorts scout around for Kakuzu and if he was still absent, to take up posts around the house until their replacements arrived. The ninja took to this plan quickly, knowing exactly whose house they stood in front of. If Fugaku Uchiha learned they didn't do their job thoroughly enough while a rogue ninja was possibly roaming around, his was a wrath they didn't want to face. Most especially since his wife was always inside, sometimes Haruka and her son Makoto as well. With swift feet, the various shinobi were off to secure the area surrounding the house as Naruto went inside.

"Mikoto-san! I'm back." The blonde called into the quiet of the large house.

Sure enough, rushing footsteps filled the air as the matriarch of the house came into view, distressed by his appearance. "Naruto-san what happened? You're covered in dirt!"

Looking down at himself, he found her words to be true as his entire form was covered in patches of dirt. Having the mind to appear sheepish, Naruto chuckled lightly. "Yes, so it would seem. Today has been most exciting."

"I saw the cloud of dirt out the back window, looked like a bomb tag had gone off! Also I felt a large energy pass through the house. What happened? Were you there?" the woman demanded, her kind eyes full of concern over him.

"There and in the thick of it. Two of Gaara-kun's attackers came, seeking me out. We've captured one but the other got away. Ninja are already scouring the land for him while others will be posted outside should he return." Upon seeing the woman before him only appeared all the more concerned, Naruto gave her the best reassuring smile he could muster. "I'm fine Mikoto-san, if a little tired and clearly, a bit dusty. But I wasn't so foolish to believe I could take them on my own, hence the energy you felt passing through. Know that it'll occur again should this happen again."

"But you're certain you're alright?" Mikoto asked, wary but at least calmer than she was a little earlier.

Again Naruto smiled at her, the expression bright as he deftly changed the subject so to further distract the woman from her stress. "Quite, in fact I'm also certain I have paperwork from the Hokage waiting for me."

Mikoto blinked as realization bloomed onto her face, smiling in turn now that they'd turn to a less disturbing subject. "Yes you did receive a package and I took it to the other house. I put it on your desk for you to find."

"Many thanks and call me should you require my aid in making dinner. Until then, I'd best clean up and get to work. There is still much to do before Gaara-kun is ready to leave the hospital."

Nodding at this as the blonde moved to walk past her to head for the door leading into the backyard. "Alright, I'll let you off but only because you're clearly not injured. Honestly you're just as bad as my sons, worrying me so much."

"My apologies but sometimes it can't be helped." He said, again having the mind to respond sheepishly before bowing lightly at her. "Until this evening Mikoto-san."

Smiling, Mikoto bowed back. "Until then Naruto-san."

The blonde demon smiled at her, picking his way so not to get dirt all over the place as he headed right for the backyard. Stepping back outside, Naruto crossed the lengthy distance between the homes with ease, though he kept an ear and eye out for Kakuzu or any other wayward attacker bent on taking him on even then. Using a wooden post as leverage onto the wooden deck of the second house, he stretched his senses to cover the expansive space, pleased to find none but himself. Relatively at ease but still marginally alert, Naruto moved through the empty house to his room to see that Mikoto had spoken the truth: a package of scrolls and papers had indeed come for him, all wrapped together neatly by strong bindings of string. Instead of heading right for them, Naruto instead diverted to his bag, pulling out his extra yukata as he headed for the bathroom to shed the dirty one. A few moments later he returned, clean and refreshed, settling at the desk before undoing the knots that held the package together. Nimble fingers organized the various scrolls, reports and papers by subject while his blue eyes scanned each one with equal measure. He had a lot of reading to do before dinner.

Naruto read long into the afternoon, rarely moving save when his legs got stiff or he needed something to drink, maybe to relieve himself. He was so consumed by his work that when Mikoto called for him, Naruto felt surprised at how the day had passed him by. Still he was more than happy to head over to the other house to perform his chore, glad to hear that Haruka and Makoto would be eating with them. With Itachi leaving the village on a mission, having the two over wasn't uncommon, especially when the woman was too tired to cook for herself. True to form, mother and son appeared with Sasuke as an escort, the raven-haired ANBU giving Naruto a long stare before leaving his sister-in-law and nephew in the kitchen. Naruto had stared back but neither said a word, the blonde soon distracted by the young baby that was more than happy to see him again. Moments later Fugaku appeared, his face just as stern as Sasuke's but like his son wasn't willing to destroy the atmosphere the polite demon had created. All three men knew such things could wait.

Just so you all know, my hands are killing me. I just might have to put them in ice this time! So much work but worth it when I get reviews from you, my loving readers. Really hope you're enjoying this so far and be ready for more soon! In the meantime, my teaser:

Next:

Chapter 5: Recovery

After the appearance of Hidan and Kakuzu, Konoha is on high alert as they try to divulge what they and their mystery group are after. While the search continues for the truth, Gaara is finally ready to leave the hospital in favor of much more casual surroundings. Can the normally stoic demon cope with a household full of people, or is this just a recipe for disaster? Watch it all unfold in:

Chapter 5: Recovery!