Fox and Vixen

by WhiteDevilMGN

An alternative take on Naruto's journey in which an unexpected twist of fate has led to Jiraiya upholding his duties as a Godfather in an unexpecting way. Featuring a strong and smart(er) Naruto and OC. Watch has Konoha is turned upside down on its head as a new blonde arrives to challege Naruto for the position of most unpredictable ninja. Pairings: NaruHina/more pending. Hiatus

7. Chapter 7

This is the disclaimer: I don't Own Naruto. I do own my imagination. Enjoy Chapter

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Chapter 7 :: Genin vs Jounin

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Kurenai lead her team to the designated and her preferred training ground, the fifth training ground.

The heavily forested area was packed with thick foliage and trees that prevented not but the most intense rays of the sun from passing through. Several small clearings existed for taijutsu sparing and where for the most part the only source of illuminate for the deep and dense forest. To the east was rough and rocky plateau that seemed to jet straight out of the earth. Easily two kilometer in diameter the flat peek at the top was home to a vast grassy plain where a lake, situated in the center divided the plateau. The river that extended outward from the lake provided a source of fertility to the lush peak and upon reaching the end of the plateau cascaded into a vast waterfall. If one descended behind the waterfall an entrance into the plateau could be found where an array of natural caves and underground springs dotted the mountains interior.

Out of all the training grounds with the exception of the Forest of Death, the fifth was the most diverse and expansive location within Konoha. Kurenai felt lucky to have been given the priority to use it since she knew her team would have to adapt to many foreign environments and would need the open space.

As the team entered the grounds Kurenai led them to the inner most spot where three logs stood in the ground standing upright towards the vast sky. Turning around to great her team she smiled at them. Kurenai was a little surprised at the three genin following her seemed to relax a bit after seeing her smile. In hindsight her smile was probably a welcome sight after walking through the dark and ominous woods surrounding them. Traveling in such a place in silence would cause any kid to tense up fearing what lay in store for them.

"Alright find a seat and make yourselves comfortable. Before we begin there are a few things we need to do first before you start your journey as genin." She said trying to break the tension up even more as she herself took to relaxing against one of the logs hoping they would relax in a similar manner.

Shino preferring to simply stand where he was showed no sign of movement. A vast contrast in comparison to his fellow teammates. Hinata who was the least tense out of the three having already known Kurenai well, took a seat on the grass in front of her. One could easily mistake her for royalt when she sat down for she did so with the grace and air of nobility that had been expected of her at all times within the Hyuuga clan. She gave the air an almost calm and quaint feeling to those present.

An air that was shattered as Naruto vying for his own method of relaxation fell backwards stiffly, landing on his back between his teammates in a similar manner one would use to make a snow angel. Kurenai chuckled a little at the sight of the conflicting personalities that where before her. A polite princess, an unruly troublemaker, and the quiet reclusive type.

"To start with I'll like for us to introduce ourselves to each other." she said continuing to observing her students carefully.

"Introduce ourselves? What as in our likes and dislikes?" Naruto asked without hesitation.

"That's right. However it's not just our like and dislikes Naruto. Other things like your goals, ambitions, and hopes as well. This way we get to understand you and you will be able to understand your teammates. Not only that but it will give me an indication as to how to train you three both individually and as a team." Kurenai replied pleased to see him paying attention. "Would you like to start us off?"

Sitting up cross legged Naruto nodded confidently. "Sure, I'm Naruto Uzumaki. What I like is ramen. I don't dislike any particular ramen so in general I like all ramen. What I dislike is the time I have to wait before I eat ramen. My goal is to become the greatest Hokage and a strong ninja like Oji-san and the old man. And I hope to one day understand wha- who I am."

When Naruto finished Kurenai smiled to hide the concern his last statement presented. While he did say what his likes and dislikes he also avoided giving out too much information. While that was good thing considering he wanted to be a ninja she couldn't tell if he was just being straight forwardly honest or hiding behind a white lie. His final statement caused her the most concern and triggered her to think back to the Hokage's words.

From his eyes she could tell that whatever caused his 'hope' to be self discovery was a deep wound to his heart. One wouldn't have known he suffered so much considering how brightly his eye's glowed with enthusiasm. Knowing better then to pry and that she would have to earn his trust to learn the cause, continued their introductions. "Shino would you like to go next?" She asked.

The stoic young man nodded as he spoke with literally zero emotion. "I'm Shino Aburame, I like insects and hate pesticides. I aspire to make my name as a Shinobi and dream of finding a new breed of insect."

"You're just like your father Shino." Kurenai thought to herself. Knowing that she wasn't going to get more out of him, Kurenai nodded and turned to Hinata.

"I-I'm Hinata of the Hyuuga clan. I-I like cinnamon buns and well...um..." she started drifting off as she glanced at Naruto who was watching her. Blushing brightly as she tried looking for something else to focus on continued her introduction. "I... um... well... dislike... um... t-those w-who give up a-and d-don't ac-ackn-knowledge o-others. A-and I-I h-hope to s-stand ou-out and b-be a great kunoichi."

Kurenai held back her desire to smile at the girl's stiffness. Despite the stuttering she was definitely forcing herself out of her shell. Sitting next to Naruto seemed to be more then the girl could handle and she was surprised that the girl seemed to have feelings for the boy next to her. Happy that the troublemaker had such a positive effect as motivating the girl made her pleased she didn't refuse to have the boy on her team. In the back of her mind her maternal instincts where screaming at her to keep an eye on him.

Making sure the genjutsu she had placed on them was still working Kurenai reaching into her pocket. The three watched as she pulled out two bells. "Good now that we got that out of the way we can now begin your final test."

"Wait what!? What do you mean test?" Naruto shouted not expecting the turn of events.

Smiling Kurenai replied, "The graduation test is a preliminary evaluation of who can be genin Naruto. However we Jounin get the final say. You see in order to pass, you three must each attempt to get a bell from me, however since there are only two bells this means..."

"One of us will fail and be sent back." Shino answered.

"Well observed Shino. Yes, That is the situation that you three are currently in. There are two bells which logically mean only two of you will pass. However there is the result where none of you get a bell and fail."

"W-what happens if we fail?" Hinata asked.

"Those that fail will be sent back to the Academy. Though if I deem you less then worthy of being ninja, you might find yourselves forbidden from becoming ninja."

Kurenai's harsh words sank in the three genin. Hinata's sat there as her doubts started to overwhelm her. The fear of failing again in the eyes of her elders loomed heavily on her.

Standing up instantly Naruto charged forward surprising everyone present. With a burst of speed he reached out to grab the bells that Kurenai was holding. What he reached for however was the illusion of the bells that was a few inches the the left of his hand.

As his fingers approached the bells the feeling of success was replaced with confusion as Naruto watched his fingers passed right through the bells. At full force Naruto passed through the illusion of Kurenai and smashing headfirst into the log she was leaning against leaving a solid facial impression into the log.

"N-Naruto-kun!?" Shouting out Hinata rushed over to check on the reckless blond.

The illusion of Kurenai stepped back while she took in what just happened. She knew he was reckless but this was something else. All she said was that they had to obtain the bell. Technically Naruto didn't break any rule and if given the situation her guard was down. Naruto clearly didn't notice the genjutsu she had place on the three of them back in the class room but had he done so... Kurenai smiled behind the illusion that her first bell test might be more interesting then she thought.

Snickering slightly Kurenai dangled the two bells before them. "I didn't say you could start yet Naruto though I also didn't say you had to wait either. Either way I'm glad to see you're able to express your desire to pass in such a straight forward manner, but keep in mind unlike that chunin, I'm a jounin which means this won't be easy for any of you. And on that note, good luck you three."

Holding up her hand and forming a hand sign, leaves swirled around her as space distorted her image as the joinin instructor vanished from the trio's eyes. At the moment of her disappearance a flurry of kunai shot towards the three genin signaling for them to begin. Naruto, Shino, and Hinata scattered as they evaded the kunai. The test had begun.

Quickly finding a hiding place Shino dispersed his bugs to seek out Kurenai true location. Hinata not wanting to fail her teammates was filled with determination as she activated her byakugan. She quickly spotted Kurenai off in a not to distance open field. Turning her head she was distracted and surprised to see Naruto within her vision. Charged straight through the woods Naruto was making his way straight towards Kurenai's location. Breaking out of the wooded area charging straight for Kurenai like a thrown kunai Naruto turned into a streak of orange as he went flying towards her.

Kurenai stood in the center of a nearby open field. She stood there waiting behind the genjutsu that overlapped her image. A simple misdirection jutsu but its effects where strong once placed. A Taijutsu specialist like Gai could easily beat her hands down, but its purpose worked wonders by leaving the oppisition exposed to counter blows. Looking towards where she could feel the presence of Hinata, Shino and Naruto she smiled to herself. While the basic's of any ninja is to conceal his or her presence and hide for the opertue time to strike that was not of interest for her right now. Regardless if they knew how to hide or not she would have to teach them stealth from the ground up since the stealth required for reconnaissance was vastly different from attack from the shadows which the academy tought. Sensing one of the genin heading straight for her Kureani was pleased that one of the genin could locate her so quickly since finding the unseen was far more important to her evaluation then mear hiding.

"And so lesson one of shinobi tactics, taijutsu." Kurenai muttered aloud as Naruto shot into view heading straight at her.

Not even making note of what Kurenai had muttered Naruto rushed straight in immediately preformed as series of combo' s that most would call faints had each one not been meant to hit. Dancing and jumping around her Kurenai felt her personal space being constantly harassed by his exaggerated movements. It wasn't a problem for her to avoid his flurry of attacks if not for the consistently odd angles and positions her was performing in. Handstand kicks, Spinning kicks off his back, A back fist in mid air, shoulder strike from a failed forward punch, Kurenai was fascinated as she was actually surprised at how difficult it was to deal with such abstract attacks. Pleased that he wasn't a complete wash in taijutsu and wasn't afraid to engage a stronger opposite. Naruto switching rhythm in mid battle shifted backward into a low stance before launching forward into a quick and straight jab. Grabbing his extended fist as it approached Kurenai easily inhibited his ability to strike her catching him flatfooted.

Before he could break free from her grasp Kurenai kicked his leg up pulling him up and over into a shoulder throw. Adding his own momentum into her throw Naruto was sent flying face first into a tree again, where he fell ungracefully to the ground.

"If you keep this up we'll have to start worrying about finding your face imprinted on all the trees here." Kurenai jokingly stated. Readying herself for his teammates to show up a sudden thought occurred to her. How did Naruto know where she was and get to her so quickly? Both Shino and Hinata had their family jutsu to locate her so by what means did he find her. Looking over her shoulder she could sense Shino and Hinata's arrival. Having just arrived themselves even with their family jutsu, the speed at which Naruto found her was nearly impossible. Sure he could have just picked a direction and gone straight but even Naruto wasn't that brain dead.

Getting back up and once again in mid charge Naruto threw himself at Kurenai who readied to grab him again. Instead of an uncontrolled and predictable charge Naruto stopped just short of her and began another relentless assault this time using his limbs to try and blind her from his actual attacks. While poorly executed, it was cute that he was attempting something he clearly wasn't practiced in. However it did prove one thing, he was thinking and there was intent behind his attacks.

Easily avoided his attacks with her genjutsu Kurenai asked, "Tell me Naruto how do you know that you would find me here?"

Not letting up a bit Naruto simply smiled. "No clue... I had a feeling you where here and so I went this way."

Twisting her body and dodging the barrage of punches and kicks he sent her way Kurenai grinned seriously. "Running off without backup against an opponent stronger then you isn't smart Naruto." She said while internally she was surprised at how quickly his attacks seemed to be adapting, becoming more focused, coming closer and closer to hitting her. Grabbing his jacket Kurenai made ready to toss him again. In mid throw however Naruto twisted his center of mass and spun sharply out of her grasp.

Landing on all fours Naruto looked up quickly realizing he had just destroyed his orange jacket which was still in Kurenai's grasp. "Oh come on, It took me weeks to fix that up."

Kurenai wanted to retort that it wasn't in good condition to begin with but held her breath.

Tossing the orange jumpsuit that remained in her hand aside Kurenai scanned both it and Naruto. The jumpsuit she had was completely torn in half. The missing left sleeve and front zipper was all that remained on Naruto as it dangled loosely off of his arm and shoulder. Underneath his jumpsuit Naruto was wearing a black t-shirt that clearly had seen many years of use. Seeing the range of patchworks range from amateurish to skilled all over his shirt and jumpsuit made her wonder if he was the one repairing the damage it endured. Looking back at the jumpsuit which the boy was famous for upon closer inspection saw that its quality wasn't even bottom shelf. Considering how vigorously he fought and trained it almost seemed impossible for it to still be in one piece even now. Sure it was now missing it sleeve and zipper but the entire thing should have been in shreds instead of two pieces.

Distracted with her observations she barely registered Naruto taking up his third assault as he spawned three kunai from a scroll that had be lashed onto his shirt by some string. Blinded by the puff of smoke she didn't witness him thrown the kunai but still grabbed the first thrown to deflect the other two.

With both kunai spinning in mid air she returned the first kunai aiming for Naruto who had just burst through the white cloud. Nailing him right in the shoulder the boy screamed but kept the pressure on. Taken aback by the recklessness of his engagement Kurenai knew she would have to teach the boy to be more concerned with his own well-being as well as proper protective gear. Stretched her arms out to grab the two kunai falling back down she was caught off guard as they burst into smoke revealing two clones which grabbed her arms. Unable to shake them off she watched as Naruto made his way to cut loose on of the twin bells.

As Kurenai watched this she couldn't help but be impressed. Even if she was holding back a great deal for a mere genin to pressure her this much and demonstrate such tactics and skill was surprising for her. Unbeknownst to her, she wasn't the only one who was impressed with the blonds bold and determined style.

Hinata and Shino watched in amazement as Naruto reach out towards their collective objective. Both where left speechless at the boys relentless pursuit of the bells. Shino in particular stood impressed as he doubted any of his previous classmates would be able to keep up such a relentless assault. Stamina aside Shino knew that against a jounin such actions would never work but that just made him more impressed. Even though he knew that Kurenai was simply toying with them it did little to detract from the display of determination and confidence. If anything Naruto's persistence was only made more admirable since anyone else in his position would have given up against fighting someone who was on such a different level.

Even in amazement Shino wasn't one to waste a single moment and strategically commanded his jutsu. As his Insects slowly encircled the area Shino made preparation to acquire a bell. See clearly that a frontal assault wouldn't work and that genjutsu was probable involved he had to establish a means of keeping tabs on Kurenai's location. Thankfully at that moment despite the fierce battle Naruto was engaging in a female insect had succeeded in landing on Kurenai giving him a sense of where the she was.

As Hinata watched Naruto struggle against the impossible odds she found her own courage to challenge the odds growing inside her. Even if she failed, even if she made a fool of herself, If nothing else she could at least look at Naruto and say she tried her best. Such thoughts began taking root as she began to feel more determined to give it her all.

Sensing the presence of the other two Kurenai decided she had tested and entertained Naruto long enough and decided to focus on testing the other two. While to twin bell test was a tradition Kurenai was only using it as an excuse to see how well the three genin could do and what they would do. Naruto having demonstrated to talent to challenge those stronger then himself had passed her test as a potential vanguard of the team.

Naruto who was in the middle of reaching for the bells wasn't sure what to make of her last words as just before he reached the bell she whispered into his ear, "Lesson two... Ninjutsu"

With a pop Naruto found himself once again in a rather intimate facial position with yet another wooden object.

"Substitution!" both Hinata and Shino thought aloud. Shino quickly sending out his insects to once again search for Kurenai's location Hinata evaluated the environment before making her way to check on Naruto.

"GOD DAMNIT I WAS SOO CLOSE!"

Shouting at the top of his lungs Naruto rolled on the ground clutching his face. Sitting back up only to see Kurenai had made a subtle retreat cried out proudly with a sinister grin, "It's not over yet damn it, I'm gonna win Dattebayo! Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!"

Phasing into existence fifteen clones took form. As the Naruto's lept off into the surrounding forest in search of the jounin one of them kept still for a moment. Trying to get a feeling as to where Kurenai was the Naruto didn't move until a shimmer of light caught his eye. Spotting a bell laying down near the base of a tree he quickly realized it was exactly what it looked like.

"It's one of the bells!" Jumping up and down for joy he rushed over and bent down to pick it up.

"N-no Naruto-kun it's..." Hinata shouted a little too late as she watched him go flying up dangling from a loop snare. "... a trap"

Appearing from behind to tree Kurenai shook her head displeased. Standing below him she looked up at him as the bell at her feet vanished form view. "Genjutsu..." Naruto muttered from the corner of his mouth.

"Come now Naruto, there is a limit to falling for such obvious setups." Kurenai critisized. The sound of a spark and sputtering light prevented her form continuing her lecture as her instincts instructed her to jump backwards.

With a resounding boom Naruto exploded. Hinata having seen Naruto explode nearly felt her chest cave in. If not for what she saw around the cloud of dust she would have fallen in despair right then and there.

Nearly having been caught in the blast Kurenai had to admit she was careless. "Should have seen that coming. Explosive tags combined with a shadow clone, nicely done. However you still haven't gotten the bell."

Turning around she was greeted by the clones that he had dispersed earlier.

"We're not done yet!" they shouted in unison as a black cloud appeared behind them several clones who panicked. "What the?"

"Hijutsu: Mushidama", a stout voice muttered within the nearby shrubbery.

J/N: Hidden Jutsu: Insect Sphere

Having little forewarning the clones where helpless as they were swallowed up in the wave of bugs that made there way towards Kurenai.

Jumping backwards to avoid them Kurenai spun around and had to duck as Shino unleashed a right hook that missed the Jounin by mere inches. Having missed Shino retreated back into hiding as he forced Kurenai away form him with his swarm of insects. As the insects continued to try and surround her Kurenai found herself stuck in a sticky situation as Naruto now no longer bothered by the insects had renewed his assault on her. The swarm of insects alone put her in a difficult position but Kurenai was more surprised by Naruto. Despite them being clones the skill of his taijutsu was still the same as before along with his agility. While he couldn't land a hit on her he was successfully forcing her off balanced and keeping her from countering with any of her jutsu. She had to mentally stop herself from going above the skill limit she imposed on herself.

Proud of Shino's perfectly timed attack Kurenai watched as he used Naruto's 'distraction' to his advantage and was now finding herself becoming slightly irritated with the blond's constant interference. She had wanted to test the other two specifically which was why she bothered with a trap but even then he kept her on her toes. Not only that but even with her genjutsu which was preventing him from hitting her, somehow the blond was still aiming close enough to apply pressure on her. His persistence while admirable only made her wish more that he'd think about working with the other two. Especially considering how well the combination of insects and blond taijutsu was putting a dampener on her test. She was seriously tempted to go all out to move on to test their other teammate.

The though tuned to a mute point as at that moment Naruto pulled back at the same time as Hinata began her own attempt in acquiring a bell. Readying herself for the addition of Hinata in the crazy free for all battle Kurenai reached down subconsciously and noticed that she was already one bell down. "When did..?" she asked herself before recalling Naruto's explosion. Kurenai wondered if it had knocked one of the bells loose.

For a second she thought he had managed to get a bell and was proud of him for successfully acquiring it but guessed that wasn't the case as seven Naruto's reengaged her by charging her from behind.

"I guess I should get a little serious. Lesson three, genjutsu! Magen: Jubaku Satsu"

J/N: Demon Illusion: Tree Binding Death

Naruto watched as trees grew out of the ground and wrapped around him and his clones. Struggling he found he couldn't break free of the illusion.

Kurenai turned her attention to Hinata who had scene through the illusion and was successfully avoiding her attack. "You have to admit the power of the byakugan is amazing." Kurenai admitted as she made her way to engage Hinata personally having distracted Shino's insects and trapped Naruto.

Closing into range Hinata charged in. Having seen through the genjutsu she had no trouble staving off the illusionary limbs. "Nonetheless, if you can't get close enough your gentle fist means little to me." Kurenai contained as she avoided Hinata's initial strikes.

Dancing out of the way of Hinata's strikes she observed her movements. While rough in some places and while a bit hesitant Hinata was quite formidable. "Hinata, once you figure out how to not let your kindness hold you back you're gonna become a great kunoichi." Kurenai thought to her self.

As she smiled at the hope of proving the sick bastard wrong, Kurenai grabbed Hinata's arm before pulling it behind her. Thrusting her to the ground Kurenai held Hinata in place. Finding herself unable to break free Hinata gave up on moving. Finding herself pinned to the ground Hinata looked down in defeat. Why was she so weak. In the end she would always be a loser. As the thoughts caused tears to start to well up she felt the darkness within her heart creap up and shiver down her thoughts.

"GOD DAMN IT! I'm not gonna lose here."

Startled, Hinata straining her neck and watched Naruto struggle from his confines. Why was it he was so strong she wondered to herself. How is it that Naruto could believe he could win even when he was bound like that.

"How the hell am I gonna win when I'm stuck like this?" another of the Naruto's screamed out in it's own frustration. Barely able to move he found himself in quite the pickle. "Think. I suck at genjutsu and have no way to break out... well I do have one method," feeling the the explosive tag in his pocket, "but that way's gonna hurt."

"You three only have two minutes left better do something if you don't want to lose." Kurenai stated observing the sun's decent.

Hearing this Naruto gave himself up to whatever fate his action brought upon him. Pulling out the tag he shouted, "Fine then. If it's the only way I have no choice." Seeing the tag Kurenai became slightly unnerved as she tried to stop Naruto from doing something desperate.

"Just relax Naruto, even if you lose..."

"I haven't lost yet!" Naruto screamed cutting Kurenai off. Lighting the tag in his hand he braced himself as it exploded. The pain of his skin burning of his arm shattered the illusion. From the explosion Naruto dropping to the ground in pain clutched his arm in agony. "S-see. I broke free." He growled under his breath as he pulled himself together. Pulling a kunai out from his scroll he threw it at Kurenai forcing her to break her hold on Hinata.

Seeing her chance Hinata pulled out her own kunai aiming to cut loose one of the bells dangling from Kurenai's waist. Seeing the threat, Kurenai made he way to step out of the girls range but found Naruto waiting for her. Creating several clones Naruto created a barrage a shuriken by transforming them into shuriken while the remaining clones threw kunai into the metallic shower. Shifting enough to dodge them by the skin of her teeth Kurenai was left helpless as the clones that had henge'd turned back into clones. Grabbing a hold of a kunai on of the clones stopped Kurenai's retreat just enough to prevent Hinata from missing.

With a swift stroke a bell tolled and fell before Hinata.

Grabbing the bell Hinata pull free from the chaos as a series of more clones appeared and dog-piled the jounin. As Hinata stood up with the bell in hand she looked at it surprised that she managed to grab it. Turning her head she could hear a buzzer go off form underneath the pile of Naruto's.

Further surprising her Kurenai appeared next to her and shouted, "Alright times up, Shino, Hinata meet us by the three log posts where we began."

Disappearing in a whirlwind of leaves Hinata watched as the pile of Naruto's sudden burst into smoke leaving no trace of the odd scene that had just occurred. Realizing the Naruto didn't get the chance to grab a bell she rushed to the three posts only to find Shino already present and Naruto tied up like a present against one of the posts.

Hinata held back a smile as she watched Naruto who continued to struggle despite the test already being over. Heading over to join them she moved to ask her not to fail Naruto. Kurenai beat her to the punch however when she started praising them.

"Well done Shino... Hinata. Both of you managed to get a bell which means you both pass. And that means Naruto... you failed."

Growling at the ground Naruto would have vented his frustration and punched something if not for having his hands tied. Flailing violently Naruto struggled against his bindings he only half-heartedly listened to Kurenai praise his teammates. Hinata found it slightly cute how he struggled to bite through the bindings tying him up. It almost looked like the rope was elastic as he tried to chew and rip them apart.

"Shino, your timing and strategy of using your jutsu was flawless. Using Naruto as a distraction to have your insects retrieve the bell I dropped and then using this female beetle to track my location afterwards to avoid encountering me was well thought out. You showed exceptional situational awareness and tactical thought, well done. "

Turning to Hinata she continued, "As for you Hinata even after I put you in that hold while you did give up you didn't give up. When given the chance you stood back up and continued to persevere, I am very proud of you. On top of that making the most of your eyes you passed through my genjutsu and making use of your observation skilled to avoid Naruto's attack to retrieve the bell shows great talent and potential within you. I am very proud of your progress, well done.

Hinata blushed at the honest praise Kurenai presented to her. She felt the happy warmth the filled her fade slightly as Kurenai turned to their final teammate.

Taking a breath Kurenai turned to gaze at Naruto as she thought to herself, "Let the test begin." She had saved the best for last and now she would see if everything would work out as she hoped. She felt a it was a little sickening that she was taking a page for kakashi's book with this test but hoped the results would be worth it.

"Naruto Uzumaki. Do you know why you couldn't get a bell?"

Ignoring her question Naruto continued to flail as he tried to wiggle his way free. Even Kurenai had to wonder why the ropes she used seemed to have elastic like properties as the Naruto tried pulling at it like taffy. His attention shot up towards Kurenai when she threw a palm strike just short of missing his face. Glaring at him, Naruto swallowed as he shook his head. Honestly he didn't feel like he failed. He gave it his all, held nothing back, and failed. All he had with him was a few projectiles a couple of paper bombs his transformations, clones, and taijutsu. In the end none of it was enough but he gave it his best shot.

His best shot however just wasn't enough.

"Naruto, your far to reckless and rash. You charged at an opponent many times stronger then you without a plan or a team to back you up. Did you once consider working with Hinata or Shino. Did you even try to discuss with them what your skills where and how best to use them as a team. While the three of you didn't do this, Shino and Hinata where smart enough to hide and wait for the opportune time to strike. You, you charge in head first without a plan or strategy and left not only yourself vulnerable but open to attack as well. In the real world Naruto, you will be the first to die."

Naruto kept quiet as he listened. Everything she said was right. He didn't have a plan, the only reason he charged in without one was because up until then he found that when fighting a tough enemy he was stronger when he relied on his instincts and reflexes. If this had been a real mission with real consequences, he would have died.

"Naruto Uzumaki, I Kurenai Yuhi deem you unfit to be a genin on this team."

"Kurenai-sensei that is illogical." Shino said as he stepped forward. Turning to look at the insect user while pleased Kurenai was surprised he spoke up and not Hinata.

"While what you said is true in terms of skill and ability Naruto is fit to be a genin. Also what you said about him not working with myself and Hinata... what you said is not entirely true."

Turning to look at Naruto he thought carefully before continuing. "While he did rush in which was reckless his actions be no means inhibited Hinata's or my own ability to attack. On top of this fact the two of us are just as guilty of not trying to communicate a strategy with Naruto as well let alone each other. In fact it was Naruto's reckless pursuit against you that enabled myself to retrieve one of the bells. The same for Hinata as well. Naruto's last ditched effort made it so that her blade could reach the bell allowing her to seize victory. Without Naruto neither myself or Hinata would have had a chance to pass."

"That's right." Hinata added as she too jumped in to voice her opinion. "Naruto-kun might have been reckless but when you had me pinned down I had all but given up. If not for Naruto-kun I would have still been held down and never gotten a bell."

Naruto listened with his jaw hanging half open. Did they really believe that his efforts where worth while, that he made it possible for them to win? In truth it made sense but it just seemed unusual for the blind who aside from a few individuals was not acknowledged by those around him.

Kurenai seemed to be fishing along the same lines as she asked, "Do you really believe that? Shino with your skill do you really believe you couldn't have won without Naruto?"

Shino shook his head, "It would be quiet difficult to do so." Kurenai smiled at the insight this statement declared. Unlike the other two it seemed Shino was the only one who realized she was holding back.

Kurenai quickly looked at the three. "Shino, as a ninja you carry unparalleled skills in tracking and pursuit missions. With you ninjutsu you can follow and track any target alive or not regardless of where or how far so long as you have discovered said target.

Turning to Hinata, "Hinata the Hyuuga have long wasted their eyes by focusing them on primarily on combat. While you may have been abandoned by your clan this in itself gives you great opportunity. Because you are no longer bound the notion of being of the Hyuuga Clan you can push your eyes to the limit and expand their potential beyond the limitations that the Hyuuga clan have created. As someone who can see even through walls the ability to gather intelligence and observe enemy movements and patterns is unparalleled in scouting and reconnaissance missions." Kurenai stated with escalating pride. In the back of her mind however she knew that should Hinata seek out other paths such as long range ninjutsu or medical ninjutsu her eyes could open entirely new potentials as well.

"Together the two of you have incredible potential and a bright future in squads specialized in tracking and information collecting such as this one." Kurenai said concluding her evaluation of the potential the two genin had in her eyes.

Naruto had ceased his struggles against his restraints as he too soaked up the words of praise she gave. Thinking hard he asked exactly what he could offer had he passed. Compared to the two of them, what did he have. So what if he was the son of the Fourth, he had nothing to show for it. A few paper bombs and some fuinjustu know how but what else. "You have nothing." his voice said in the back of his mind. Too upset at his own thoughts Naruto didn't question his own voice in his head. Naruto bit down on his lip as his hair blacked out his eyes. Hating his own weakness Naruto had to admit he didn't really have anything he could offer to the team. At least nothing he could think of.

"As for you Naruto," Kurenai started to say as she watched Naruto stiffen slightly at her words. The sight gave her pause as she wondered if perhaps the boys overwhelming confidence really was just that... overwhelming. Could it be that Naruto's confidence in his abilities be how he continues to force himself forward despite all the suffering he endures?

Shelving the thought for now Kurenai focused on telling him her evaluation of his skills. "...Naruto you are reckless and unpredictable. While acting without thinking and without your teammates is foolish it also demonstrates your value to the team."

Her words caused him and Hinata who had been worried that Kurenai was going to scold him to look up in surprise. Even Shino's facade shifted in surprise slightly for a second having not expected this.

Continuing Kurenai said, "The greatest fear of intelligence gathering is getting caught. Getting caught leads to the risk of combat and fighting is where vital information is usually lost and gained. Naruto as a member of this team your a gem without form, you are a talent that is untapped. Your ability to use shadow clones alone makes you valuable as any information your clones gather are sent straight to you upon dispersal. More importantly the number of clones you can make is unheard of for your age. Like in this test, while your chakra control was horrid, you have the potential to be more then one shinobi. You can become a squad, a platoon, or even an army if you work at it. This ability alone makes your potential as the rear guard, the last line of defense for your teammates when we get spotted invaluable. Even as a Vanguard you can force the enemy to reveal vital information for the team."

Taking a breath she let her words seep into the boy. Hopefully if her worries of his confidence where true she could relieve some of the stain. Moving over behind him she preceded to cut loose his bindings.

"But most importantly your greatest skill isn't a skill. Naruto you faced a Chunin and won, and now you faced a Jounin and in both cases where outmatched and outclassed. As a rear guard for the team you will have to face enemies that could both out power you and out match you. You have the power to swallow the fear most would feel and face such adversity head on without hesitation. That is one of your greatest strengths you've demonstrated today." Kureani stated sounding every mount of pride as her voice portrait. She couldn't help but smile at Naruto as she said this as each word seemed to cause the boy to glow slightly brighter. "It really was amazing that he can smile like this", she thought to herself.

"Naruto in terms of combat prowess and ability, you have more potential then Hinata and Shino combined. As such you have the potential to protect and support them so no matter the mission all of you can come back alive."

Naruto stood up as he listened to Kurenai. It was one thing to hear Iruka support him on his path, but hearing the reasons why she believed he could be a great ninja was something else. Naruto knew he was smiling and for once it wasn't a fake smile either. How could it be, Kurenai had just given him a new path in life to follow towards his dream, a decoy.

A decoy... he had never considered it before.

Naruto started to wonder if her words where true, could he really stand as equals to Shino and Hinata. Sure they where weird but both of them stood up for him. Maybe they where really nice and could be an awesome team.

His heart sank as he recalled that he failed the test and would be sent back to the Academy. Even as his thoughts turned dark the grin that plastered his face didn't wain as his mind started to spiral into darkness.

"Now for the results of the final test. Naruto Uzumaki, Shino Aburame, Hinata Hyuuga..."

Calling their names in succession she smiled as she said, "While it wasn't quite the result I was hoping for I believe it will be enough to pass."

Wait...PASS!? Wait you mean I passed!?" Naruto shouted in shock. Nodding Kurenai continued, "Naruto while it might not have been your intention you acted today in much the way I hopped your roll on this team would be. A distraction, a decoy who opens up opportunities for you teammates to succeed. Getting the bell wasn't the requirement to pass, it was merely a goal. Don't give me that look, I am a genjutsu specialist. I simply deceived you into thinking you had to get a bell to pass. To pass all three of you had to prove to me that you had the potential to succeed as a team. And as Team 8 acquire a bell I see no reason not to pass you three. Hehe, Imagine my surprise when your team got both of them."

"Then we pass?" Naruto asked.

Nodding Kurenai watched as Naruto started jumping up and down shouting in victory. Hinata clutched he hands to her chest as she smiled in joy at having passed along with Naruto, though Kurenai wondered which was more important to her, passing herself or Naruto passing. She figured it was the latter considering her present focus. Shino stayed perfectly still but after hearing him say more then she had ever heard his father speak in a single time guessed that like Hinata he had taken to acknowledging Naruto as well.

Clapping her hands Kurenai rested her hands on her arms. Seeing she had their attention she said "Alright Team 8 you have the rest of the day off, use it to rest up. Tomorrow your training begins."

Nodding the members of Team 8 began to leave as kurenai noticed the dangling remnants of Naruto's Jumpsuit hanging off him. "Naruto hold on a second," call out to him.

Turning around Naruto looked at her wondering what his new sensei wished to say.

"Naruto, I want you to meet with me in front of Ichiraku's in two hours. I'll be there shortly." she said before disappearing with the shunshin no jutsu.

J/N: Body Flicker Jutsu

"Wonder what that was about?" Shrugging Naruto decided to worry about it later. "Oh well, hey guys lets go out and eat ramen to celebrate.

-Hokage's Office-

"So all three of them passed then?"

"Yes Hokage-sama." Kurenai answered as she reported the results of Team 8's bell test. Hiruzen was pleased to see that Naruto was able to pass but noticed Kurenai remained in his office. "Is there something else?" he asked.

Nodding Kurenai asked, "Yes there is. During the test something odd happened which I wanted to ask you about. Naruto's parents, was one of them a sensor type?"

Hiruzen looked at Kurenai with a hard look. "What makes you think that? Did Naruto show some sign of being a sensor?"

Kurenai shook her head, "I'm not sure."

Kurenai recalled how when she disappeared the first one to locate her was Naruto. "I'm not sure if it was just luck or instinct but Naruto was the first to locate me during the test. He would have needed to successfully out preform Hinata's byakugan and Shino's kikaichū to do so. In terms of speed both of them found me rather quickly. Which has me wondering when and how did Naruto know where to find me. It was strange, especially since he fell for my genjutsu without any signs of resistance."

Hiruzen put down his pipe as he understood what Kurenai was implying. "You believe that when you started the test Naruto somehow knew exactly where you where even before his teammates had the chance to use there abilities?"

Kurenai nodded unable to say yes. It was absurd to believe that Naruto possessed an ability that could find a target faster and quicker then those of the Noble Clans. Especially the Hyuuga and Aburame Clans.

"Well for starters Naruto has shown no signs of being a sensor as his file states. As for his parentage as far as we can tell neither of his parents could have been sensors." Hiruzen informed Kurenai. As he watched Kurenai walk out the Hokage was left to wonder himself about the young blond as he read Kurenai's detailed report.

Reading the report the Hokage could see the cause of his jounin's confusion. No sooner did the test start did Naruto race towards Kuenai like an unleashed kunai. However the man heralded as The Professor and the second God of Shinobi was wondering himself if there was a chance that Naruto was a sensor. At such a young age it could be possible that such a power laid dormant within the boy. However an ability that allowed him to find his target without activating or demonstrating some form of chakra use had never been heard of before. The perplexing nature of this feat seemed abnormal no matter how he looked at it.

"Well only time will tell." The aged man told himself as he once again braced himself to confront his greatest opponent which toward over his desk.

Kurenai was pleased to find Naruto chatting it up with the proprietor of Ichiraku Ramen and his daughter.

"Ah, there's my sensei. Chatter with you later old-man."

"Come again" Teuchi said as he waved goodbye to his favorite customer. Naruto rushing up towards Kurenai with a big grin on his face.

"Kurenai-sensei you wanted to talk with me?" he asked looking up at her. Nodding she gestured for him to walk with her. Understanding he was to follow Naruto took position beside her as she walked towards the market.

Looking down she asked, "Naruto during the test I noticed your clothing you wore wasn't quite up to the standards a shinobi should wear."

Seeing Naruto tense up she continued observing him carefully, "If your going to be a shinobi you'll need to fit yourself with clothing that won't tear itself apart like your jumpsuit did earlier."

Naruto looked at her confused he looked down. "WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED TO MY JACKET!?

He screamed as he realized the only thing left of his jacket was the sleeve and a scrap of orange holding the zipper down his front which dangled as he walked.

"How was it he didn't notice until now? Didn't he comment on it during the test? How did he forget it was torn up?" Kurenai asked herself.

"Oh man what the hell am I gonna wear now?" Naruto asked himself as Kurenai stopped for a moment as she felt like slapping herself.

"Naruto, is the reason your always wearing the orange jumpsuit because... you don't have anything else to wear?" Kurenai asked a little hesitant to know the answer.

Laughing Naruto replied, "N-no way, It's just that it was my favorite and I like the color orange." Naruto did have plenty of other clothing, what he currently wore was by far the most comfortable and durable he possessed.

While Naruto was telling the truth Kurenai knew a white lie when she heard one. "Naruto I won't be upset but tell me the truth. I know your not telling me everything."

Looking away Naruto kept his smile on but didn't answer. She watched as the boy walked through the Market at a quickening pace. She could tell that he was anxious about something so didn't bother to push the subject herself any further. Looking around she wondered what could cause the boy to be so worried within the village.

As they walked Kurenai couldn't figure it out what was upsetting her student so much. Having made it to the market she noticed that Naruto's pace was now just short of a brisk jog. Grabbing his shoulder for a moment she saw a shadow of fear reflected in his eye as he looked at her.

Knowing something was wrong Kurenai made a suggestion. "Why don't we talk somewhere more comfortable for you, I'll follow."

Thanking her mentally Naruto nodded as he headed towards the Hokage Monument.

Sitting on the the fourths head Naruto clutched his legs as he gazed over the village with his smile.

"You do know technically your not suppose to be up here right." Kurenai teased, sitting beside him.

"I just feel better when I sit here. It makes everything seem so small." Naruto retorted knowing full well that the monument was technically off limits for everyone and he shouldn't be sitting there. Still it helped im calm down a bit though it didn't help that he knew Kurenai knew something was up. He was glad she wanted to help but didn't want to say anything regarding his troubles. Sure she was nice but he didn't know if she would cause more problems are be drawn into his own. Knowing she wanted answers he realized there was one topic he could use to avoid talking about his place in society.

"Kurenai-sensei? When does a lie stop being a lie?"

"Naruto?"

Ignoreing her confusion he changed his question as he looked at her, "You know about me, about 'it', right sensei." His question was more of a statement as he looked out at the village.

"Yes I do." Kurenai answered simply letting him set the pace.

Nodding he continued. "I wasn't lying to you. I do have other things to wear. It's just they weren't as good as my jacket."

Kurenai looked at him slightly shocked. His jumpsuit was barely considerable decent, not even quality goods and it was the best thing he had? "Naruto why don't you just purchase something new, surely you have some money that you can spend on cloths. Now that your a genin you'll also need something sturdy for when you go on missions."

"I do, but the village won't sell anything to the demon and those that will raise the prices so I can't afford to buy from them." Naruto explained. Naruto mind fumbled a bit; Why was he telling her this? He only intended to lead her away from the topic not headlong into it.

While Naruto's mind struggled to figure out why it admitted the truth to his sensei, Kurenai was dumbfounded at the admittance Naruto presented to her. "If that is the case why haven't you told anyone else. Surely you were able to buy that jumpsuit..." she started asking but stopped as he shook his head.

Looking down at the remains of his jacket he showed the first expression of sadness she had seen on the boy. "I got this as a birthday present form Mikon. She sent it to me three years ago for my birthday."

"Then why haven't you informed someone of this. Surely you understand that what those merchants are doing is wrong." Kurenai asked trying to hold off her anger while hoping to gain some insight into the boy's situation. A situation which seemed to be much darker then she had first suspected.

"If I told Jiji it would only make more trouble for him. Besides I've managed just fine on my own so far so its alright." Naruto declared with his usual grin. "I'll figure something out." Something about his sensei was just natural to him. While he couldn't figure it out Naruto felt relieved to explain some of his troubles to another person.

Kurenai wasn't sure which she was amazed at more, the boy's optimism or the village's cruelty. Slowly she was starting to piece together the boys life little by little, and the outline his life was presenting was growing grimmer by the minute.

"I see."

Standing up she looked back down at the smiling boy. "Thank you for giving me your time. Make sure you head home and get some sleep. You'll need it for tomorrow."

Turning around Naruto asked, "Wait Sensei, what was it you originally wanted to talk with me about?"

Pausing she smiled as she replied, "We'll talk about it later. See you tomorrow, eight sharp okay." With a a shunshin she disappeared from his sight. Racing her way back to the market Kurenai contemplated what she had just learned. Originally she had intended to go with Naruto to educate him on what goods where suitable for a shinobi and to get him some clothing that would hold up during missions. Seeing as how shopping was out of the question for the blond, Kurenai felt the need to know more before pushing forward.

While Naruto was forth coming and open, she felt that he only revealed what was on the surface. The true problem was the Kyuubi. As she thought this she wondered if the fox was the only thing that was bothering him.

-Hyuuga Mansion-

Kneeling before her farther Hinata shifted nervously under his gaze. After telling him what happened and that she passed his usual critical gaze wasn't present today. This only unnerved Hinata even more then if he was glaring at her as he usually done.

"F-father?" she stuttered out stiffening as his gaze clamped down on her.

Standing up himself she watched her father make to leave the room. Opening the door he turned around and glared at her with his piercing white eyes, "Don't disgrace the Hyuuga."

Saying no more he left not sparing her a second glance. Hinata stared at the floor fighting the tears she felt behind her eyes. Heading to bed the only thing that kept her together was the fact she passed with Naruto and from then on would be teammates with him.

-Aburame Residence-

Shino stood in his room as he performed his daily routine of feeding the insects he caught. Looking at one particular stag beetle Shino thought in silence about the newest mystery he had encountered.

During his school days Naruto wasn't anything impressive and from what he saw today he wondered just when did his classmate get the strength to do what he demonstrated. Before he had written him off as a troublemaker who made pranks in silence to cause trouble for the adults around him.

Naruto's display of ability however left him wondering just how much he really knew about the blond problem child. Resolving to observe his new teammate more closely he continued caring for his insect collection.

-Hokage Monument-

Naruto laid on the hard stone surround by scrap parchment and ink. He hated when his hands cramped up preventing him from practicing. Looking at what once looked like scribbles to him now made perfect sense. What he once felt was boring and tedious now held the same motivating grip that physical training held. "Dad... I really came a long way."

Raising his hand into the air he grasped an unseen objective in it. He was becoming stronger, if only a little, he was growing stronger. As the ache in his hand became more pronounced Naruto relaxed and laid back on his fathers head. Shifting his head he looked below him. "I still hate you..."

Letting the words escape form him he basked in the sensation of the setting sun and the feeling of his hatred leaving him on the wind. "But one day I'm gonna catch up to you and surpass you. Then... one day... I'll understand why you and mom abandoned me."

Closing his eyes he allowed the gentle embrace of the night air to caress his tired body.

"Foolish human, your parent's sacrificed themselves to imprison me."

Shooting up Naruto was taken aback when he found himself lying in a familiar flooded building. "This is... that place in my dream... back when I was in the hospital."

"Well isn't this a surprise. My human overlord graces me with his presence. To what do I owe the pleasure of this visit"

Turning around Naruto was greeted with the smirking face of the Nine Tailed Fox as it growled in a low hum from beyond his cage. Naruto sat there trembling slightly. "Y-yo...you can talk?

With a sneer the fox laughed, "Yes, I can talk. And it seems the human is capable of of understanding speech as well. You foolish humans, always reacting to insignificant matters."

"S-sh-shut up... I-I just didn't expect it that you could talk." Naruto retorted raising to his feet.

"Then prey, do tell me what you where expecting?"

Naruto wondered for a minute, "what was he expecting?" Looking back at the Kyuubi he realized he hardly knew anything about the fox aside from what the history books said, which in all honesty wasn't much since he couldn't access them like everyone else.

"Well I as kinda expecting to still be lying on the Fourth's head." he answered.

Naruto watched as the fox looked down on him before snickering once more which sounded more mockingly arrogant then before. "So the dumb human is as dumb as is to be expected."

"Hey! Just because I don't know stuff doesn't mean I'm dumb!" Naruto shouted slightly ticked off at being called dumb.

"Well at least your expectation is correct." The fox informed as it laid its large head back down on its front paws.

"What do you mean?" Naruto asked surprised by the foxes gentler tone which still radiated malice.

Looking up the fox gave off a look of boredom before answering. "We're inside the seal. Think of this as a mindscape, a dream if you will. All of this is a mental image visually produce for you by the seal. Your body is still laying down on that accursed man's stone head so you're not entirely wrong in you expectations. Do you understand?"

Naruto nodded as he was able to follow most of what the fox said. "Good, now tell my why your here." the fox demanded.

Shrugging Naruto replied, "To be honest I don't even know how I got here. Though I'm kind glad I am."

Growling the fox shouted, "Are you mocking me!"

Falling onto his ass Naruto watched terrified as the fox's massive paw struck the cage rattling the massive structure. "I'm not mocking you I swear." Naruto cried out. Thinking for a second Naruto realized just what he was doing. "Wow this is really weird I'm talking with whats considered to be a natural disaster.

"If there's nothing you want from me then begone human." the fox stated angrily.

"Hey! I have a name you know. It's Uzumaki Naruto, dattebayo! And I would leave if I knew how to! It's not like a came in here to be mocked by you, dettabayo!"

The Kyuubi looked up in interest at what the boy said. Bracing himself for whatever the fox might do Naruto held his ground not knowing what it was about to do.

"You don't consider yourself a Namikaze? Well at least that makes you somewhat tolerable." the Kyuubi said more to himself then Naruto. Naruto couldn't tell if it was pleased or intrigued. "Why? Do you hate the name Namikaze?" Naruto asked in curiosity.

"Hmph, You'd hate the name of the one who cursed you to an existence as a prisoner within a child. Me the most powerful of the tailed breasts, am now forced to live my final years within a damn child."

"Final? I thought you were an immortal fox with monstrous power that could blast away mountains and stuff." Naruto asked.

"BE SILENT! If not for this cage I'd devour you whole without a second thought." the Kyuubi said lashing out. "If not for your father or that cursed clan I wouldn't be here! You think you can just take my power and make it your own, fine! The moment I get the chance I'll kill you all!"

"I don't even want your power!" Naruto shouted back. This damn fox was blaming him for everything. As Naruto listened all he could recall were the years of torment and suffering he felt and right now the cause was yelling at him and cursing him out.

"All this time everyone hated and ignored me because you where inside me. I NEVER WANTED YOU. You killed my parents and attacked the village. What have I ever done to you, you damn furball!"

Huffing out of breath Naruto stared at the Kyuubi as it glared at him in return. Growling in rage the Kyuubi counter, "What have you done? For 12 years you where my prison."

"Against my will." Naruto interjected. "Why hate me when I never desired you power nor imprisoned you for your power. That was my dad who did it because you were attacking the village! It was your power that hurt Ino my closest friend! Your power that haunts me every day! Haunts the village every day! I never wanted your power in the first place! You want out of me? FINE! I'll learn how to release you kick your ass!"

Out of breath and panting hard Naruto noticed that at some point he had started pointing his finger at the Kyuubi. After releasing all his pent up aggression by yelling at the monster that had haunted him for years Naruto could now see a little more clearly as he looked at the tailed beast.

"Even if you did I'd simply disappear." the fox replied.

"Huh?" Naruto breathed out in confusion.

Irritation growing in its voice again, the Kyuubi explained, "Your precious Fourth Hokage messed up during the sealing process. Using the Fuinjutsu: Shiki Fūjin your father divided my chakra and attempted to seal half of me within you. I killed your parents in anger. I couldn't stand to be sealed inside such a weak and pathetic creature like you. It was bad enough being sealed inside a human let alone a crying brat. However instead of sealing half of me your father failed and sealed my spirit inside you."

J/N: Sealing Jutsu: Reaper Death Seal

"Your spirit?" Naruto asked in confusion.

"My spirit, mind, consciousness, call it whatever you want. The point is the Fourth didn't seal away my core. Without the core, my vessel, my body, I would fade out of existence in a matter of minutes after leaving this damned cage." The Kyuubi stated slightly irritated at explaining something so simple.

Cocking his head to his side, Naruto pondered and reiterated what was said. "So my dad sealed away you mind inside me but not your 'core'. Okay... then what happened to you body?"

"My body is formed out of pure chakra and that was sealed away elsewhere, I have no idea where but my guess would be inside the stomach of the death god or your father. From what I know about that jutsu those two outcomes would be the likely result. You father did succeed at first when splitting me in half he sealed away me within himself. It was after I pierced him through that the ritual was interrupted and he messed up." the fox answered.

"So without your core you can't form your body right?" Naruto asked.

The Kyuubi snorted a laugh out as it said mocking, "Not the most observant human are you."

"What was that!?" Naruto shouted back.

Ignoring his outcry the Kyuubi continued, "If you where looking you'd see that I have my physical form and my chakra back. My core is essentially what makes me the Kyuubi. It's what keeps me my form together, whole. Without it I would be no different from regular chakra. Right now the seal is whats keeping me whole. If I left the seal right now my chakra would scatter to the winds and break down into nothing. While it could take my shape it would be able to hold together for very long. So without a body, my mind would eventually follow as well. For use Biju the closest thing to death up till now was to lose our memories. Now though for the first time a Biju is at risk of vanishing off the face of the planet never to reform. All thanks to your farther."

Thinking for a moment the Kyuubi starting laughing bitterly, "HA! In a way your damn Hokage didn't fail. That damn human will end up being the first human to have successfully killed a Biju."

Naruto sat down listening to the fox's explanation. While he blamed the fox for his hardships he never liked the idea of killing someone. Whats more something felt off about all this. Like something was missing. Looking up Naruto felt a compulsion to ask a certain question. "Why did you attack the village?"

The fox looked down in anger but kept his tone mellow as he asked, "Why ask such a pointless question?"

Thinking carefully Naruto answered, "Well, it just seems odd. You seem to hate humans yet historically speaking as far as I know you rarely appear. If you really meant to hurt humans then wouldn't you have attacked more often? I mean you hate humans but it doesn't seem like you cared enough about us to bother killing us you know?"

The Kyuubi remained silent as he watched the boy carefully. "Interesting..." the fox said to itself. "Tell me human,"

"Naruto!" the boy said interrupting.

"Naruto..." the fox said clearly irritated, "What would you do if you had access to my power?"

"What do you mean..." Naruto started asking before he was cut down by the fox. "Just shut up and answer!"

Naruto thought for a moment sitting down. Seconds turned to minutes as Naruto sat there in thought.

"Well?" the fox asked annoyed at having to wait.

"Honestly I don't know. Personally I wouldn't use it but at the same time I know I can be reckless and impulsive so I might use it without meaning too. To be fair its not my chakra so I don't think I should be allowed to use it." Naruto said answering the large fox.

For the first time, Naruto thought he saw the fox grin with a smile. Watching the fox turn away from him he started to get up to stop it but found himself back up on the Hokage Monument.

"We'll talk again..."

Looking over the village Naruto heard the foxes final words as its presence vanished from his mind. No longer able to feel hits presence Naruto quickly got up and rushed to the Hokage.

There where several things he wanted to ask and something he wanted to know. Not just about his father or the fox, but also about the seal that bound him to it.

Rushing through the village his mind raced as he collected the thoughts within his head. The Kyuubi was an intelligent creature. Not only did it possess hatred but he was sure it possessed sorrow and frustration. However it was a living construct of chakra... how was that possible? And to top it off the Kyuubi within him was just the mind of the fox, the body present something it regained after the sealing process.

"How long did it take to regain its body? How did it regain it? What happened to the Kyuubi's original chakra, its original body? What went wrong with the jutsu that sealed it? Why did the fox appear in the village? Did it really just appear out of thin air?" Naruto asked himself as he ran. Realizing he was running at a full on sprint. He wondered why he was in such a hurry. Sure learning such facts that seemed impossible based on what he had been told was important but something inside him felt more desperate.

It wasn't like he hadn't been lied to before so the information shouldn't have been all that earth-shattering of a revaluation. There was also no proof the fox was telling the truth either. Knowing that if he was going to figure out anything he had to ask someone he could trust. With Jiraiya out of the village the only person with the knowledge he need was the old man Hokage.

Knocking on the door Naruto waited for the old man to welcome him in.

Hearing the knock Hiruzen called out for Naruto to enter. Walking in Hiruzen was surprised to see Naruto so late. "Naruto, what brings you here. If I'm not mistaken you should be reading yourself for tomorrow."

Naruto nodded as he smiled half-heartedly. Normally just seeing the old man would make his have a warm fuzzy feeling that was welcoming and safe. That feeling tonight was overshadowed by the questions and confusion his conversation with the fox brought about.

A state of confusion which Hiruzen noticed on Naruto's face, "Is something the matter?"

Nodding Naruto looked up and asked, "Jiji... can you tell me about the night when the Kyuubi attacked?"

The Hokage was taken aback by the question though in hindsight he should have been. Thinking about it he realized that it wasn't all that surprising the boy wished to learn more about his birth and what happened that night.

Getting up he signaled for the ANBU guarding him to leave and insure no one eavesdropped on their conversation. "Come with me." the aged man said guiding Naruto through the Mansion.

Naruto did as he was told following in silence. The Hokage led him to a room that looked like it was a cross between a dojo and a meeting hall. The room was draped with violet sheets and was empty with the exception of a large desk which had a yellow tarp with the leaf symbol hanging off it. A large Crystal Orb sat on the desk supported by a purple cushion that was the same color as the couch the sat behind the desk.

Sitting down on the couch himself Hiruzen gestured for Naruto to join him. Sitting down he was surprised at how uncomfortable it was compared to how it looked.

"Now then," Hiruzen began, "What do you want to know about that night?"

Naruto thought carefully as he knew while he trusted the old man knew he was the Hokage as well. "Well um... Jiji." Naruto started nervously not sure what to say exactly. "Can everything be kept a secret between us?" Naruto asked earning a raised eyebrow form the old man.

Smiling the Hokage nodded, "Of course, everything between us will be kept as such unless you say otherwise."

Relaxing a bit Naruto took a deep breath before starting. "Jiji, What happened that night? How did the Kyuubi attack?"

Hiruzen wasn't sure what to make of the question so answered as best he could. "Well it was a calm and clear night. The village was prosperous and shining brilliantly and everyone was happy. The Village had just survived and made it through another Great War and everything was fine. However suddenly the air became still and stifling. There was no sign of anything bad approaching the village but for those of us who survived the war we could feel that something was wrong." Hiruzen said telling it like one of the stories he would read to his own grandson.

"It was then that the Kyuubi appeared rising from within the village. It's tails leveled the landscape, its claws ripped apart everything in its path. When it roared the monstrous beast's cry would create a shockwave that left a trail of destruction along its path." Hiruzen proclaimed.

"So wait? It just appeared... like out of nowhere?" Naruto quickly asked interrupting.

Hiruzen looked at the boy questioningly. "Yes it did." he confirmed.

Naruto eyes lit up as he asked excitedly, "How did it appear. Did it like fade into existence of poof like it was summoned?"

Hiruzen realized that Naruto wasn't interested in the night but the Kyuubi itself. For what reason was the boy interested in how it appeared. Trying to figure this out the Hokage side of him was recalling the night itself as he remembered reading the reports. A shocking truth he hadn't considered popped into his head, The Fox was summoned.

Thinking back to those reports all those who witnessed the appearance had described the fox appearing within a white cloud similar to that associated with the summoning jutsu. Staring at Naruto he asked himself and the boy, "Why are you interested in how it appeared. Whats really going on Naruto?"

Naruto shuffled a little in his seat. As the old mans gaze turned more inquisitive and stern Naruto's composure also started to fracture. "I-I.. nothing really... I just had a dream... and well I became curious." Naruto explained.

Hiruzen didn't buy it. "Naruto I've raised you when your parents sacrificed themselves for you and the village. I watched you grow up, struggle, suffer, and become a genin that your parents would be proud of. So please, tell me what the real reason is."

Naruto nodding explained for an hour everything that had happened within the seal. Naruto told Hiruzen about meeting the Kyuubi, that it was intelligent and all the questions he was starting to have about the attack on the Village.

Hiruzen was stunned but listened intently. While internally he was quickly to write off the Kyuubi's words as the sweet promises of a demon seeking freedom as he listened began looking into the attack more carefully.

Comparing the reports and documents he could remember as well as his own partaking in the attack began to form his own questions. At the time the Hokage didn't make much thought about it. Now, many years later, he was able to look at the event from a broader perspective.

Everything Naruto said while couldn't be stated to be true did bring to question the events and how they happened during that night. The autopsy reports of his wife, Minato's decision to seal the Kyuubi into his child, the foxes sudden appearance described within the reports. However the aspect of that night which made him believe there was something more to the event of that night was in regards to his own battle with the Fox.

During the fight Hiruzen recalled the foxes actions and could feel it's malice. The fox's malicious charkra had flooded over the entire village but in the middle of the fight its focus seemed to change for no reason at what so ever. Hiruzen didn't think about it much since normally if threatened it would make sense the beast would change its focus from the village to the shinobi attacking it. However, the more Hiruzen thought about it the more it felt strange... as if the motive behind the beasts actions changed like a switch had be flipped.

"As if it someone lost control over it..." Hiruzen muttered.

"Jiji?" Naruto asked concerned by the Hokage's sudden silence and worried features.

Hiruzen thoughts suddenly started picking up speed. Could it have been possible that someone attacked during Naruto's birth? How would they know about the time period when the seal was weakest? How did they know when to strike and how? Could they have taken control of the Kyuubi and attacked the village with it? No that was impossible, the only people to ever have taken control of the fox had been the First and Madara Uchiha. Both of them where dead so it couldn't be possible... unless.. was it possible someone else could tame the Kyuubi?

If that was true it would make sense then why Minato sealed it within his son. Minato always thought ahead, never acting without reason. Did Minato seal the fox in his son to prevent it being taken by someone else? As a fuinjutsu master he could have sealed it away temporarily then sealed it away within a more practical vessel. Instead he chose his son. Sealing it away using the complex method that he used would ensure the boys protection and make it possible for Naruto to wield the fox's chakra and use it later. The end result, preventing an unknown enemy from acquiring the fox and ensuring Naruto's protection.

It was just a theory but it made sense. Standing up suddenly he walked out of the room gesturing for Naruto to stay where he was. Walking outside he shouted out, "Yuago!"

The ANBU appeared out of nowhere as he gestured for her to follow him. "Gather all available ANBU loyal to me. Have them recover all records and reports connected and linked to that night twelve years ago."

"Regarding the Kyuubi's attack sir?" the ANBU asked.

Nodding Hiruzen continued, "Yes, and everything related to it, damage reports, autopsies, medical records, eye witness accounts, everything related to that night." pausing he turned and said in a much colder voice, "as well as those unofficial records regarding the event in particular. Bring them here." He said re-entering the room he had talked with Naruto.

Nodding to leave Hiruzen gestured for her to wait before saying quickly, "And bring the Scroll of Sealing as soon as possible."

Nodding again the ANBU with the cat mask vanished leaving Hiruzen to sit back down next to Naruto.

Looking at the boys confusion he smiled with a look still grim at the possible revelation. "Naruto, by chance did you plan on asking me if you could see the fūinjutsu that was used to seal the fox?"

Naruto nodded, "Yeah I was going to ask you if I could look at the Fūinjutsu: Shiki Fūjin... if it was possible."

"So he even knows the name of the jutsu," Hiruzen thought to himself. "The fact that you know the name of the that forbidden jutsu only adds credence to the implications that the Kyuubi's words imply."

Naruto tilted his head in confusion. What did that mean? Naruto wondered quietly to himself what Hiruzen meant by his words. Why did knowing about the Shiki Fūjin's name make anything the Kyuubi say any more truthful or acceptable. While Naruto wondered this he felt a strong temptation to ask the Hokage why but stopped as he realized what the aged Hokage had said, "Forbidden". Why was Hiruzen okay with showing a Forbidden jutsu to him? Sensing the sound of shifting robes Naruto pulled his attention to the empty room.

Looking up Hiruzen reached for his pipe realizing he left it in his office. Regretting having left it behind he sighed as fifteen ANBU appeared hold boxes and scrolls filled with documentation in regards to that night twelve years ago. Seeing the Scroll of Sealing as well he grinned grimly.

"In that case, why don't we see what we can figure out in regards to that night, together." Hiruzen said.

Naruto nodded excited at finally getting answers to the questions he had. Looking up Hiruzen watched as the ANBU proceeded to retrive more documents before telling one of them, "Grab my pipe will you."

Watching the ANBU disappear he thought to himself, "This is gonna be a long night."

-Naruto's Mindscape-

The Kyuubi laid in silence withing the damp prison as it reflected on the first official meeting with its Jailor. Silently it cursed as it recalled its fate as a tool for humans. If not for the hopeless situation withing the seal it could have found a means to escape but without a body to materialize itself in would simply perish. Once a powerful force a nature it was now stuck keeping it's prisoner alive just so it could prolong it's own life.

As the mighty chakra beast mulled over its new found fate and its impending death within its host the sounds of footsteps echoed through t gloomy and dank halls. Glancing through the cage the Kyuubi watched as the humanoid figure stepped partially out of the shadows. The child like entity laughed mockingly as black and reddish eyes gazed at the imprisoned fox.

"HheHeE, SoO YOu tOld HiM a LitTle hInt dID yOu. WhAt aRE yoU HoPeINg tO CHaNge By tELlinG hIM The tRUtH of THAT nIgHt. ThE gREaT MoNSteR fOx wANtS to sAvE thE HUmAn HehEHe iS thAT iT?"

Snorting the Kyuubi turned its head away having satisfied it curiosity as to who was approaching. "Begone human I'm not interested in dealing with you."

The child laughed humorously. "Oh cOmE nOW, wE bOTh knOw YoU wOUld hAve lOVeD aNd rAIseD mE WeLL iF It SeRvEd yoU iN EsCaPIng yoUR vIlE pRiSoN cElL. WEll iT doEsN't mATteR If YOu dO oR dOn'T sInCe thIs VilLagE is LiKe a PeTRi diSH fOr mY beINg. WeLl I gUeSs tHis iS thE eNd oF tHe grEAt KyUubi, foReVeR doOmED to HavE alL yOur hAte diE wiThIN tHe bOdy oF a sMAll bOY. HEHehE." While it's words where kind and expressed its appreciation it's voice dripping with vile hatred towards the fox.

"Keep buzzing insect, since you can't serve my purpose I have no interest in you. I will not be used by this brat or the likes of you. Without my chakra you have no strength and so long as I can punish That bastard who doomed me to this prison I don't mind vanishing."

It's laugh echoed sickeningly through the hall. Each note from its joy seemed to stick and fester against the walls of the room as it looked squarely at the demon fox. "I hAve nO nEeD oF YoU. If i wAnt YouR pOWeR I'Ll sImPLy tAkE iT. BUt aS i sAId I dOn'T neEd iT. NaRUtO wILl bEcoME sTroNg oN hIs oWn. ANd aS hE grOwS StrOnGeR sO Do I. AnGeR wIlL brEak tHe sEaL bUt hAte wILl gIvE mE cOnTrOl. So LoNg aS yOuR hErE, hIs fEaR, hIs DOuBt, hIs hAtE wIlL rEmAiN aNd I wIlL gRoW."

"It'S fUnNY," the child continued it's voice wavering between playful and sweet. "HaTe iS LiKe A FirE, It NeeDS FuEl. HAte HaS nO rEal VaLuE uNleSs yOu HavE LoVe aNd HopE To kEEp iT bUrNiNg. ThAt faKe wiLl feAr loOSinG tHoSe hE chArIsheS aNd wilL cOmE tO hAte hiMselF iF nOt yOU, sHouLd tHeY cOmE to SuFfeR. ThaT uNknOwN, tHaT fEAr ShOuLD tHey LeArn wHaT hE reAlLy iS, WiLl GiVe mE A~LL tHe frEedoM aNd PoWeR I WiLl EvEr NeEd."

The child unleashed a sickening grin which reflected on the watery surface of the floor. The crescent shaped smile mimicked its sudden advancement forward. Marching slowly with gleeful steps the child made its way towards the fox, pulling the darkness with it. The Kyuubi's fur crawl as it approached, not a sound echoed from the child. As the shadows encroached the room a deep malice came with it filling the room. The dim room became pitch black as all light seemed to vanish in the presence of the child leaving only the eyes of both parties and the child's twisted smile visible.

"YoU'vE loSt yoUr toUcH KyuUBi. YoU mAy bE cAllEd tHe eMbOdimEnt oF hAtRed bUt yoU're nOthIng bUt a fUrbAll of cHaKra. NoT EvEn WoRthy oF beInG a MoRseL to Me. YoU'rE liKe a mIrRor thAt reFleCtS thE feAr anD AnGer oF tHoSe wHo huNteD yoU dOwn. SuRe yOu hAVe HaTreD bUt iT iS sUch a PaThetiCalLy wEak haTreD. NoW wiThiN ThaT cAGe yOur tRue NaTuRe iS reVeAled. ReMeMbeR thIs wEll, TRue HaTe iS aN aCtiVe foRce aNd siNcE yOu hAvE No MoTivAtiOn tO aCt... hEHehE... I'lL bE doInG tHe aCtIng. ReMEmBeR tHat wEll, KuRaMA."

The Kyuubi stood up, its movements shifted the water violently as it clashed against the cage. The gate which represented the seal rattled violently as the the fox's massive claws threatened to smash through it. "How!?..." The fox roared. Even inches away from it's face the child had not a trace of hesitation, fear, or doubt as it stood there smiling malevolently with a mix of pleasure and playfulness. Childish laughter which shifted to a maturer tone akin to that of a young teen-aged boy responded mockingly to the Kyuubi.

"ThAt'S eAsY, hAtreD bReeDs hAtReD bUt iT aLso LiNkS uS tOgeTheR aNd wIthiN tHe mINndScApE I CaN SeE eVerYThinG. HeHEhE, rEaLly nOW, evEr sInCe NaRuto acQuiRed HuRt ThoSE FrIenDS oF HiS, I hAvE beCoMe sO muCh moRe poWerful, s~O cOmPleTe, mOre So tHen I eVer wOUld hAVe bEcoME haD I oNLy YoU to RelY on. IT's aNnoYinG hoW paTheTicAllY oPtiMisTiC tHat fAkE is DesPite evErytHIng, bUt thAnkS to ThAt I CAn cONtinUE to GrOw. AnYwaY I'vE anNoYed yoU enOugh todAy, wE'Ll talK AgAin- KyUUbi."

As the child left it made no motion a hint of movement, only its smile and eyes fading into the dark. Upon the removal of the child's presence the dense sensation of malice that had suffocated the hall was alleviated. The darkness that had swallowed the room slowly receded, slithering backing into the distant hallway, returning the the sickly yellowish glow to the secluded chamber.

With the child gone the Kyuubi laid back down within the seal. As it lay there in silence a chill that had been present since before the child's departure presented itself to the fox as it crawled up the fox's spine. While it would never admit to being afraid, and while it's pride would never acknowledge them, even the Kyuubi knew to fear the potential of humans and the evil lurking in their hearts.

---

SUPRISE! THATS RIGHT so many revelations in this chapter. Originally this was suppose to be a slow-transition chapter without any real plot droppers. Just the bell test and some development between the Fox and Naruto. B~ut the natural flow of events just came out and Bang there it is.

And YES, It is true, I'm bringing Inner Naruto into the mix way before Shippuden, why? One word, Trauma. The one thing that bugged me throughout the entire series of Naruto. The fact that despite how much Naruto went through he was still completely whole. Hell its the reason why Gaara is my Favorite character, I mean that trauma was pretty cut and paste to see. Not only does it make it more interesting but the discord between Naruto and his past makes more sense if you think about how all his pain is pretty much bunch up inside. Plus I never really seen a Fanfic where people explore the darker aspect of Naruto's personality, his pain, without making him a full blond kill everyone character.

As someone who's struggled and has had his identity rejected by both peers, society, and teachers alike, I know how much that can scare a person and change them. Humans are tough but not all that durable. Fun fact I was designated (called/identified) as the Bubonic Plague as a kid in elementary school. Yup I wasn't even seen as human, ahh good times. (Yes there is something wrong with me, don't judge)

Now two things are different here (Naruto's actions, Doubts) from Canon and why I'm bringing "it" into the story is due to the fact that A) Naruto has had far more bonds then compared to Canon. Jiraiya was there for him, and he had both Ino and Mikon for support. This is important as when you have something you cherish it makes it all the more painful when you loose it.

But WhiteDevilMGN, Jiraiya pretty much showed up and left, how is that him being there for him?

Simple, there is a big difference between having no one and knowing there is someone who cares for you. I would not be alive most likely if that wasn't the case during my childhood. The thought that someone loves you and cares can make a world of difference to a person.

The second reason, B) I'm making Naruto more realistically aware. If you think it's not realistic oh well, I only have my own experiences to draw from since I can only guess/image how others view the world.

Because Naruto has seen what it's like to have friends he now understands the pain of loosing them and the greater pain of hurting them. Two things that have a tendency to haunt people in life.

Anyway, off that depressing road and onto the other revaluations. Why I want to talk about all this, I don't know, I blame my Coka-Cola / Pepsi / Dr. Thunder Caffeine high right now. Yes I drink a lot and still healthier then most my classmates, Alcohol free for life, that's right I drink carbonated products + water only. Where was I, Oh yes, Revelations.

THE KYUUBI IS still a jerk. Or to be more precise is now an unmotivated jerk. I will probably (if memory serves me) go into more details during the next chapter or this one which you just read, last read this chapter fifteen days ago and forgot it's contents. But anyway the Kyuubi isn't trying to break the seal. And yes the Kyuubi is now formless it has its chakra shape but thats only because of the seal itself. Should the seal break... Its dead, Dun dun DAAAAA... (how do you write dramatic sound tracks?) Any case due to technically difficulties, spoilers, and plot reveals in regards to the seal the Kyuubi isn't in any hurry to be breaking out How will this effect the story and Naruto? I got lots a ideas. But yeah, same old grouchy malicious Kyu except now how fluffy fox isn't going to be break the seal up or at least weakening it intentionally.

On top of that Naruto will be having first hand experience seeing the original formula for the Reaper Death Seal. Why did I do this, Four reasons the main one Naruto's no longer an idiot. Reckless yes but not an idiot. Plus with Naruto learning Fuinjutsu he's more knowledgeable about the subject. Two reasons as to why Hiruzen isn't worried about showing him the seal jutsu formula. How will this effect Naruto? Even I don't know completely haven't written that far for glorious details to be spoiled.

Back to my Caffeine high, And finally the Hokage is coming to a realization that the attack on the village was planned by someone. How no one in the original Canon notice the sharingan eye on the kyuubi's eye when it attack is beyond me, that eye is like one 15 teen year old Naruto long and not a single trained shinobi could pick up on that eye.

Anyway Hope you all enjoyed the chapter. Next time Mikon Returns and hopefully I don't change it like this one from it's present relaxing pace.

-White +best