Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto/Shippuuden.

Chapter 7

Team 7 and Tazuna had just left Konoha towards Wave. Naruto was on high alert, and the only one who noticed was Kakashi. Hinata only guess he was, because she never saw him on high alert. Not once. Kakashi decide to walk up to Naruto. "Naruto, why?"

"He didn't heed my warning. He is after Tazuna. I wouldn't be surprised if this mission went from C-rank to A-rank in a heartbeat." Naruto whispered, though his tone was the same he used when making a threat. It meant he was dead serious about what he was saying.

Kakashi took a moment to figure out what he said, when he remember what he said on the boat.

-Flashback-

Kushina and Kakashi looked at him with widened eyes. "I don't appreciate the fact he went and killed someone who had their heart in the right place, and to make up for me not doing anything I gave him an Ultimatum. That was it, and if I find out he didn't, I will find him, and I will kill him. Simple as that."

-Flashback end-

Kakashi understood what he meant at that point. "Well, we can't up the rank until something happens. Until then, this is considered a C-rank." Naruto nodded.

"I was expecting that from you."

They continued walking, and Hinata was the only one who heard the conversation. She smirked, and looked at Sasuke. He caught the smirk from the corner of his eye. She mouthed the words, "this is an A-rank".

Sasuke started to smirk himself. Kakashi noticed that they all went on high alert, but kept it hidden. They walked past a puddle, and Naruto tensed when he did. They all saw it, and Kakashi dropped his guard for a bit. Hinata noticed, and got ready for a fight. Naruto was already ready. Sasuke knew he wouldn't be as good as the others, but he could help.

That was when two beings came out of a puddle, and went straight for Kakashi. They wrapped a chain around him and squeezed him to the breaking point.

"Hinata! Sasuke! 32D!" Naruto yelled.

Sasuke went for the chain with a Shuriken, and impacted it against a tree. He followed up with a Kunai, and it went through the hole of the Shuriken. Naruto went for a Gravity Cannon and knocked one back, while Hinata went for an Air Palm, as taught by Naruto.

They were both swung around the tree, unable to sever the chain before they knew what happened.

Naruto had calmed down a bit. "Demon Brothers. Kirigakure Rogues. I should've known he wanted you dead this badly. They are Chuunin level."

Sasuke and Hinata looked at him. "What are you saying?"

"Kakashi-sensei, I think it's time this mission goes straight to A-rank. Bounties will have to suffice for what they can't cover themselves... If the bounties aren't enough, we'll take the rest from Gato when he's dead." Naruto said, before Kakashi came out of a bush.

"Well, this mission is off the scope. Tazuna lied to us, so unless we decided to keep going, we're heading back. Unfortunately, that would cause problems with Kushina, and that never ends well. So, we're continuing the mission off the scope, as an A-rank." Kakashi said. Everyone tensed at the part about Kushina, even Tazuna.

Naruto just smirked. His mom came in handy, even when she wasn't there. 'And that's why she's a great mom.'

"True. Although, if she were my mother, I'd freak."

'I don't even want to know.'

"Good, because I wasn't going to say anything on that subject."

Naruto stopped talking to Akane, and they continued walking.

-2 days later-

They reached a boat, and got on. Naruto had sent scouts ahead as The Kitsune Warrior. He left his mask off himself when he did so. That way, he wouldn't cause suspicion.

They reached the bridge and Hinata was impressed. Sasuke looked indifferent, but was a little impressed himself. Naruto wasn't surprised one bit, and neither was Kakashi. Naruto did comment on it. "You know, Tazuna. You probably could have made it a bit bigger. I know you could have with your skills."

Tazuna grabbed his head in a Naruto-ish fashion. "Yeah, about that. We don't have the money to go any bigger, and this bridge is the hope of our country. So, yeah. With my skills I could, but with the resources, I couldn't."

Naruto nodded. He understood the situation perfectly. The rest of the boat ride was silent. When the landed, Naruto dispelled his Shadow Clones. "Damn. 2 others, one of which is a Hunter-nin from Kiri. The other has a Zanbato on his back."

Kakashi looked at him and nodded. Naruto tensed. "Get down!" Kakashi got Tazuna to the ground, while Sasuke and Hinata dove. Naruto jumped over it, allowing it to knick his right hand. Causing a sword to appear in that same hand. It was the same one as when he beheaded Mizuki, and killed the Yondaime Mizukage. His left hand flew over his face, making a fox mask. All this happened in a few seconds. He landed shortly afterwards, the Zanbato hitting a Tree. Someone standing on top of it.

Kitsune, mask on, looked at him. "Zabuza Momochi. And I thought you were loyal to Mei-chan."

The man standing on the Zanbato looked at him. "Oh shit. It's you. The Harbringer of Death, the one who took down the Yondaime Mizukage, Sanbi no Yagura, a Jinchuuriki in his own right, on his own. The Kitsune Warrior. Fuck my life."

"Consider it fucked, Zabuza. First let me ask you this: Why did you go Rogue?" Kitsune stated.

Zabuza looked straight at him. "To find you. I didn't know where the hell you were, and regardless of the fact you are an Uzumaki, I wasn't able to find you to train you like I wanted to. More personal than anything else."

"Okay then, head back to Gato, and tell him The Kitsune Warrior has returned with his warning intact."

Zabuza stared at him. "Pardon?"

"He'll know... If you survive." Kitsune said as he went behind Zabuza. "Also, if I found out you made an attempt to kill Mei Terumi, I will not kill you personally. Instead, my mother will. You know full well who that is." He hit the back of Zabuza's neck to knock him out.

The Hunter Ninja nearby had popped up next to Zabuza. "I am sorry I didn't pop in before you did this, however, I saw no need to. You were..." He was cut off by Naruto,. "I know full well you're on his side. He's lucky I already met him before he went Rogue. His reasoning, though childish, makes sense. However, it does not give enough grounds to go Rogue. I am willing to give him another chance, but when he wakes up tell him to give Gato that message."

The Hunter-nin nodded. He took Zabuza's body with him.

Sasuke and Hinata looked at him. "Naruto-kun, are you sure that was a good idea?"

Kitsune shook his head. "If I did, he would have come with us, instead of back to Gato."

Kakashi nodded. "Gato has screwed the pooch. Before we leave, Naruto is going to kill him."

Kitsune shook his head again. "Kitsune is, Naruto isn't. The two of us may be the same, but no one but those here know that." His sword was still out, but before he could put it back in his seal, the 4 foot long katana started to bring pain to Naruto, since his mask had dissolved.

He screamed in pain. Something he hadn't done in a long time. Kakashi ran up to him, but Hinata grabbed him. "Don't interfere with this. He would drop the sword if he wanted to, but something is up with it."

Kakashi and Sasuke looked at her. The former spoke up first. "What the hell are you talking about?"

"Akane's Youki is being sent to the Sword, but that's not what I'm worried about, since Akane isn't moving herself. The sword is reacting negatively to the Youki, and in turn is hurting Naruto in the process." Hinata stated, calmly. "As much as I want to scream bloody murder right now, it wouldn't help him out one bit. We should stick around, but we can't move him, or force the sword out of his hands."

Tazuna stared at her. "Why is that?"

"That's because Akane has Youki, not Chakra. Youki is normally harmful to Humans. Having Akane within him since the day he was born has given him some resistance to Youki. Using too much could also kill him, though. That's what I'm worried about."

Sasuke tensed up. He felt something was off about what Hinata had just said. "Wait a minute... I don't think the sword is rejecting the Youki." The others present looked at him. "Maybe the Youki is forcing it to... evolve or something. There is that possibility." Tazuna looked at Sasuke and then at Naruto. He squinted his eyes. When he widened them, he noticed something else. He could see how it was going.

"I don't believe it." Everyone turned to Tazuna. "The Youki, as you call it, isn't just being sent to the blade. It's being absorbed. I don't know how I know, but for some reason, I can just feel it."

Naruto's cries of pain, lowered, and his katana started glowing. As the glow intensified, it expanded. It went from a 4 foot katana to a 7 foot Broadsword, that looked like it was in the shape of a fish outline. (A/N: Think Force Stealer from Final Fantasy 7. That's what it looks like, almost exactly. The only difference is this one is more Orange in color.)

"Wielder of this blade, speak your name." A voice said in Naruto's head.

'Akane, do you know who said that?'

"It was the sword. Tell it your name out loud."

"Naruto Uzumaki." He said, seemingly to no one.

"Naruto Uzumaki, eh? I will let you in on a little secret. Your Katana has evolved into the form it is now. You know how to listen to your sword, and this will help you out."

"How so? I don't get what you're saying. And what exactly do I call you? If you evolved from my Uzuto, then surely you have a name yourself, if you're actually talking to me." Everyone looked at him like he had gone crazy... except Hinata. Hinata looked at him, shifted her gaze to his sword, and then back at him.

"Well, I am similar to what one calls the Force Stealer. In fact, I am a brother sword to it. I found little faith in humans, demons or anything of the like. That was when Gonta of the Fiends told me about you. Speaking of which, he's the reason I came around. That damn Madara is going to be the death of us all if he is not stopped. Anyway, my name has been forgotten, even to me. However, if you wish, you may call me Force Stealer, since we are virtually twin swords. The difference between him and me, is that I'm a lot more picky than he is."

"Picky, huh? I guess that means you chose to come to me, instead of me having to find you. I doubt you are sure about me, so you want to see for yourself. Am I correct in saying that?" Naruto stated.

"You are better than I was told, and that's saying something. Yes, that is the case to a T. This evolution was only temporary. If I decide to leave, it will return to its original form. By the way, I already know of the ultimatum you gave Gato, and I agree completely. So until that point, I would suggest you learn how to use my abilities to your advantage. I will go into more detail later."

'Well, at least I know I can count on him. My mother did say that the best swords to have on your side are the ones that choose their wielders.' Naruto thought.

"While that is true, that is not why I'm here."

'Wait, you can hear my thoughts? That's a strange concept... although I have seen weirder.'

"Yeah, I figured as much with Akane being within you. She has changed a bit since I last talked to her."

"You do realize I can hear you, right? I just have my reasons for wanting to stick with him. I'm not going into the details, because if I did, you probably would call it bullshit."

"I see. Well then, I guess things would happen the best the way they are now. I will expect an explanation later on, though."

'You'll get it when you do. Akane doesn't like talking about what happened that day, and get's pissed off easily when she does talk about. Not something I like to see, and she knows it. That's another reason I found another use for the Gravity Cannon. Her temper, like my mother's, is deadly, in the most literal sense possible.'

"Ah, shut it."

'You know it's true. Still, I'm glad you taught me the Gravity Cannon. It helps out.'

"Oh? And how exactly can you use it? The thing is at least 500 feet long."

'Not the way I use it. If you're around when Gato pops out, you'll see it, along with my father's signature Jutsu. He's going to pay for treating this village like trash.'

"Tazuna, take them to your home. I'll be in the forest for a while. I have to take care of a few things, and then I'll head there. I remember where it is, and tell Inari that I'll be there when I can." Naruto told them.

Kakashi looked at him. He was trying to figure out why he wasn't coming along now. "Kakashi-sensei, you're gonna have to give it up. I'm not saying anything yet, because it isn't set in stone, and can change in an instant." He got several nods.

"Don't go after his head yet. Give him some time to let it sink in that he's screwed." Kakashi said.

"I was planning on it. Also, I gave a shock to Zabuza's nervous system when I hit him. It will go away after about a week. He knows he can't beat me, especially after what I did to Yagura. Why else would he tell me "Fuck My Life"?" Naruto asked, before walking off.

-Tazuna's home, 10 minutes later-

Team 7, minus Naruto, had arrived at the front door. Tazuna opened it. "Tsunami, I'm home, and you'll never believe who they sent." A young woman walked in.

"Welcome back, Father. But what do you mean by... Kakashi, is that you?" Kakashi nodded. "Well, I just wish Naruto came back with you. Inari's been... different. I can't get through to him. I think that Naruto's the only one who can right now." Tsunami said.

The entire team, along with Tazuna smirked. "Tsunami, they came as a group of 4, plus me. The other went into the forest, probably to train himself with his sword. He's after Gato, since he didn't listen 7 years ago."

Tsunami looked at Tazuna, and saw something etched in there. Her eyes widened when she realized it. "Please tell me he's got something to say to Inari. I'm not sure what to do right now."

Tazuna nodded. Just then, and young boy came out with a cold face. He saw Tazuna and smiled. "Grandpa!"

"Inari!" They hugged each other. He then looked at Kakashi's team. "What are you doing here? You're gonna die if you go against Gato."

Sasuke was about to do something, when Hinata held out her arm to stop him. Apparently, she was the level headed one. "If anyone that goes against Gato died, then your Grandfather would be dead already. He's not dead, so that means not everyone that goes against Gato dies. I know for a fact Naruto-kun won't."

Inari looked like he was about to break down. "I wouldn't go for the mental or emotional breakdown. If he saw you like that when he gets here, he might slap you. Trust me, they hurt like hell." Sasuke said, grabbing his cheek.

Inari's eyes widened, but not from fear. It was surprise, shock, and happiness. "Where is he? Why isn't he with you? What happened?" He was energetic now.

"He's training with his sword right now. Something that normally wouldn't help him much, but given the fact it evolved a few minutes ago, he had to get used to it." Kakashi said. "And with that ultimatum right after Kaiza's death, I wouldn't be surprised if he went after Gato right here and now."

A voice came from behind them. "I told you, didn't I? I'm planning on waiting until he gets the news I'm back. He'll get a bit more reckless, and probably fire Zabuza, freeing him from killing Tazuna. From there, I'll kill that "cat", and then wipe out his entire legion of thugs. That's the least I can do for this place."

Everyone turned to the voice, and saw Naruto in a chair. "Inari, Hinata is right. And Sasuke, I wouldn't have hit him. If I did, it would kill him. I'm not about to disrespect Kaiza by killing his son. You remember what he said before he was executed by Gato? Live your life, so you don't have any regrets. Protect what you've got with both arms."

Inari looked ashamed. Naruto continued. "I know you haven't been living up to those words. The last words Kaiza said to you, and yes, I could tell they were for you. He lived that way until the day he died. He wanted you to do the same."

"What else could I do? You just left, and not once did you tell me anything about that." Inari sniffled.

"Because I figured you understood what he was saying at that point. Now that I see you didn't follow through with it, I'm here. You need to get your act together, and stop crying about the past. Time doesn't wait for you, and neither will life. Besides, Gato is going to die before I leave Wave this time. His body is going to be crushed under intense Gravity, leaving no trace of him." Naruto stared at Inari.

"Same room as before, Tsunami?" Kakashi asked, earning a nod.

"I'll be sticking to the roof. It's a better place for me. This place needs a hero, just like Kirigakure did when I went there. Meaning, I'll get some practice in on the lower thugs." Naruto said, as he got up. "Think about what I said, Inari. Remember what Kaiza was like. Be like him. You can do it, you just need the determination." He walked out and jumped to the roof.

Naruto started to meditate, so he could get a more accurate reading about the area. He was finding any threat he could at that point. Hinata came up next to him. "Are you okay? I know what happened back there was a little dangerous."

"Yes." Naruto's eyes were closed. "Right now, I have things to take care of. I'm going to need some live practice with the Force Stealer. I know that my skill with a sword won't matter, if I'm not used to it. That's the reason I'm searching for the lower thugs right now. Practice makes perfect, right?"

"Right." Hinata said, as she sat down. "Naruto, I think we need to talk about something, at least while we're here."

Naruto's eyes opened up. "I was wondering when you were going to tell me what you were hiding. You've been hiding it for maybe a week. I've noticed it for that long." Hinata nodded.

"I just didn't think it would be a good idea to have someone else know what I found. You taught me sealing, but what I found was something not even I could understand, until the day before we left the village for this mission. I realized it was something about Bijuu. Akane is a Bijuu, so maybe she could find out what it is."

Naruto looked directly at her. "Well then, we will wait until after Gato is dead. That way, I don't have to get distracted. Is that fine by you?" Hinata nodded.

"I think it would be a good idea to protect Tazuna and his family in groups of 2. You and me in one team, and Sasuke and Kakashi in the other." Hinata suggested.

Naruto shook his head. "I think it would be better if we went in 3 groups. Kakashi-sensei is good enough on his own. I have a lot more experience than both you and Sasuke. This means that I'll be good enough on my own, as would Kakashi-sensei. The reason you and Sasuke would be paired up is because of the fact that he could awaken his Sharingan at any point. The moment he does, it will make the two of you even more dangerous."

Hinata looked in shock. "W-why?"

"I know you love me, and I do love you. However, this is not a question of love. It's a question of tactics. The majority of what I'll be doing is either training with Force Stealer, or Meditating. During meditation, I'll be looking for anything that has any relation to Gato, along with his hideout. You and Sasuke get along quite well, and I know you wouldn't go after him in any way, shape or form. However, if he unlocks the Sharingan, I'll be able to figure it out easily. The same for when you Activate your Byakugan. There is Chakra flow, and that is something I can detect easily, even when searching out people, or ninja. Kakashi is not as good as I am with that particular skill, and I am second only to my mother. I mean, my ability at sensing the Chakra Flow is beyond that of the Byakugan... No offense."

Hinata shook her head. "None taken, I guess. I'm beginning to think something else could happen. Once Gato finds out that you're protecting Tazuna, he'll be after you."

"The only ones to know who I am outside the team or the Rookie 9, are in this house, part of the village Council, and Mei Terumi. She kinda figured it out on her own, though. I'm not worried either. I can handle Kage level opponents, and have done so before. What makes it worse, I was only 5 then. I'm 12 now, and I can only get stronger. That's something I've learned, if not in lessons, in experience." Naruto said.

Hinata nodded. "So, me and Sasuke will be one group, and work on protecting the family, or Tazuna. Kakashi-sensei will be doing the same solo, and you'll be working on your own. Am I right so far?"

Naruto nodded. Hinata slapped him. As he rubbed his cheek he said, "What was that for?"

"You know I love you, and I know you love me. So why not choose the happiness you'd get from working with me?" Hinata was a little angry, and Naruto realized it.

His mind searched for something to say, and he figured, 'Guess I'll wing it.' "Hinata, I know that if I stuck with you I'd be happier. However, I have the experience needed for something like this. You don't, and neither does Sasuke. You're gonna need the strength in numbers. Besides, you know I've got the Shadow Clone Jutsu, and I can make upwards of 1,500 with ease, and not feel tired. Kakashi-sensei also has more experience than I do. However, if you find yourself in a situation you can't handle on your own, someone needs to be there, and I'm thinking about how to do that, even if I'm training."

Hinata was staring at his eyes. "You don't know what to really say at this point, so you're winging it, huh?"

"Kinda, but it is the truth. I'm looking for a way to make it work the way it should, but nothings coming to mind." Naruto replied, inwardly cringing. Hinata wasn't mad anymore. She knew what was going on. He didn't like it either, but he had to do it like this. An idea came to her. "Is it possible to put the Hiraishin seal on a piece of paper and you can teleport to me through it?"

Naruto facepalmed. "You didn't even think of that, did you?" Naruto shook his head. "You know, you may have experience, and you might be smart, but you're utterly clueless when it comes to relationships."

"Naru, get her in here. I got something to say on this. She may not like it, but it's the truth on the matter."

'Why do I get the feeling I'm not gonna like this?

"Because you probably won't."

"Hinata, Akane has a few things to say to you, but she won't say anything to me." Naruto said, earning a frown, and a raised eyebrow from her. She still nodded, and they both started to meditate.

-Mindscape-

Naruto and Hinata were right in front of Akane. "Hinata, I can almost guarantee that Naruto won't like this bit of information, but he inherited his cluelessness from his father."

Naruto just gaped at her. Hinata looked in thought. "You may not believe me, but it's true. Minato was so clueless of his feelings for Kushina until she was about to leave him. I still don't get how the hell it happened, and I hoped he wouldn't be so damn dense, but that just wasn't the case."

"I'd have to ask Kushina-san on that bit of info, but it would make sense. By the way, what really happened here with Naruto-kun? I mean, he did say he met them before, but I didn't think something like this would have happened."

"Naru, it would probably be a good idea for you to work on your training with Force Stealer in here. You may not gain the physical ability, but you will have the muscle memorization. That should help a bit."

Naruto looked at Akane, with a strange look, but nodded and walked off. Hinata stuck around and sat next to Akane. "What is it you wanted to tell me?"

"I said part of it. As for your question, he was here when Kaiza died. You can ask Tsunami what he did to save her. Only myself and Naruto were aware of what he said to Gato before he left. Even though it was only a Shadow Clone."

"So, Gato is the reason Kaiza died. Inari suffered a lot from his death, and with Naruto leaving, it wasn't a good day for him, was it?"

"I would imagine not. Since Naruto used a Shadow Clone, and he gave me access to his memories, I found out exactly what he was going to do if Gato didn't stop there. He didn't, and I can honestly say, he's out for blood. He's able to remain calm and collected, and that's partially my fault. However, even the best of humans snap. I fear one day he will, and that will be his death. If for some reason, he doesn't before he dies, he would have a stronger Will than anyone I've ever seen in my life. And that's saying something. I know that even Deities would have a hard time swaying his will, but if my theory is correct, and so far it has, not even they can sway him."

Hinata looked at her with a different look than before. She was confused. "I see you are confused at that. Allow me to explain, then. How much willpower would it take to resist the word of a Deity?"

"A lot, I would imagine."

"Try an insanely large amount, not seen anywhere, even in the Uzumaki Clan. Their Stubbornness is, or was, their best strength, and greatest weakness. Their will stems from that. His will is far beyond anything I've seen in a human."

Hinata looked at her, any emotions running through her head gone. "I know he has more will than a lot of people, but for you to not see anything like that in a Human? That's just not natural... I kind of like it."

"I wasn't sure you would. However, you still liked him, even when you found out about me, so I can't say I'm surprised. Most humans hate me, and in turn, hate him. They don't show it anymore, thanks to Kushina, but they still hate him."

"I know. I've still been hearing rumors about him in the village. Some of which, though only recently, I know are true. The rest of which, I'm either not sure, or don't believe for a second. A few people went to the hospital thanks to me." Hinata said. "They say something bad about Naruto-kun, and I'm around, their in the hospital for a few days. If not, they lost their sanity."

"Women can be so devious." Akane giggled. "That aside, I'm glad you're on his side. He probably wouldn't admit it, but he seriously loves you. Just like your mother tried getting his father, you're after him. Can't say that's genetic, but I can't deny it seems more than coincidence."

Hinata closed her eyes. "She told me about that, and honestly, I thought the same thing. I asked myself several times if the reason I want him, was because my mother wanted his father. I still don't know the answer, but I'm willing to do anything I can to find out for myself. I know he doesn't like fangirls, so I've been trying to avoid that, but I just don't know what to do."

Akane sighed. "At this point, if you're not a fangirl in his eyes, just keep doing what you're doing. You've already got his heart, even if he doesn't realize how much, and he doesn't. I know one thing for sure. His feelings for you are strong. Stronger than they are for his mother. The decision to split you apart was not his first decision. In fact, it was the third."

Hinata gaped. "Don't be so surprised. However, one day, I hope you will be able to use a gift I'll be giving you one day. Whether it be through him, or on my own, I don't know."

"G-gift? What do you want to give me?" Hinata asked, her stutter returning somewhat.

"It's something that should help you out immensely. However, I think I can give you part of it now."

Hinata just looked at her expectantly. "This gift, can be a curse, or a blessing. Which one it is, I can't say for sure. However, it will hurt like hell. I can promise you that."

"Then why give it to me?"

"Because one day, I feel you will need it. If something happens, and Madara comes after you, it will be a last resort, but you'll be safe for a while. This is my own piece, and Naruto doesn't know about it. Right now, you won't have much control over it, and it will only activate under 2 conditions. One: your life is in danger. Two: Your rage builds up too much, and you explode. Both must be met, and you must realize the first."

"What will happen then?"

"I can't guarantee the target of your anger will survive. However, even if it does happen, you must not let it control you. I can give you a small portion of my Youki, and you could use it as your own Chakra. It's not even at the level of 1-tail, which is far less than 1/9th of my full strength. I won't lose much, but what you get will only grow with time. Do you know what angers you the most?"

Hinata nodded. "The caged bird seal, which hasn't changed, and those who try to kill or threaten Naruto-kun. Other than that, nothing really angers me." Akane nodded at this, but Hinata motioned her to move closer. She whispered something into Akane's ear, and Akane was visibly shocked.

"I take it you don't want him knowing about that yet, do you?"

"Not yet, but one day, hopefully. Also, not many people know this, but I know of another Jinchuuriki in the area. Well, he was one last time I saw. He had the 4-tails, and told me he was just a wandering traveler. I saw otherwise, since his Chakra was similar to Naruto-kun's."

"The 4-tails. That damn Lava Monkey still owes me some money."

Hinata cocked her head, but shrugged. "Anyway, he said that he wanders aimlessly. And this was before I actually met up with Naruto-kun. It wasn't until later that I realized he had about half of your Youki."

"That would be about right. Still, from what I remember, Naruto's mother was one of those who could summon them. I'm not sure right now if he wants Yoko/Kitsune, Lava Monkey, Archfiends, or Toads."

"Toads?"

"His father signed with the Toads. His mother signed with the Lava Monkeys. He has summoned an Archfiend already, and then there's me. He already knows of this, and he has yet to decide which one he wants. His mother already knows of the Dilemma, and it doesn't help that Tsunade wants him to go for Slugs."

"It's a tough choice. If I were him, I'd go with the Kitsune/Yoko, but that's just me." Hinata shrugged.

"Mind if I ask why?"

"You're the reason. People think of you as cruel and vicious, even though you're actually calm and nice. That kind of deception is good, and it would be something that proves that I care for Naruto, regardless of who he is, or what he is."

"Explain."

"I don't really care what he's got in him, or what he can really do. I know he's strong, but he doesn't throw around his power. In fact, he tries to hide it. What's more is, he's not blinded by power, and doesn't give in to the Darkness. He's the light of everything I hold dear, and nothing can change that."

Akane smirked. "I see you finally answered your own question."

Hinata looked at her, seeing the smirk. "What do you mean?"

"She means a question you either ask yourself repeatedly, or asked her." Naruto said, walking up to them.

"It's the former, Naru."

Naruto nodded. "I'm glad you care for me that much. I am a little surprised, but it's not gonna keep me from wanting to protect you any way I can. I have a long way to go to reach my goal, and I know I won't be able to do so easily."

"By the way, you did think about finding a way to use the Hiraishin without use of seals. I think I've found something interesting. I'll fill you in on it later. We won't be able to do so easily, and the consequences could be drastic, so I'll only say it when I know it could be safe. I don't want you dying before you have to, and if that means merging my soul with yours, I'll do that. However, that won't be easy, either."

They both nodded. "Hinata, I'll be meditating in here for a while. I'll need to cool my head if I want to stay sane in a fight. In the meantime, let the others know about the cycles I came up with. I know you don't like them, and neither do I, but it's the best chance we have, in case someone else comes along. Also, if you run into Zabuza again, flare your chakra. I'll know, and I'll come straight to you. Check my pouch, and take one of the Chakra infused Shuriken. Keep it with you at all times, and I'll be there when you flare your Chakra. Deal?"

"Deal." Hinata replied. "Just don't hurt yourself, Naruto-kun."

"He won't. I'll make sure of that." Akane said, shifting her gaze to him.

Hinata nodded and left the mindscape. "Get to work, Naruto. It won't be easy for you to maintain sanity with your Anger."

"Yeah, yeah, I know." Naruto went into the field and started to meditate.

'I still wonder about him. He's different, but I think that's Gato's doing.'

-2 days later-

Hinata was on the bridge, as she was supposed to be. She had taken care of a few thugs on the way, but nothing that needed Naruto's help.

Naruto was in the forest training with Force Stealer. "You're wearing yourself out. You're thinking too much into your movements."

"I know, but it's not easy using an evolved sword. The main problem is the change in weight and size. Once I can accommodate that, I'll be fine for the most part."

"You obviously know why you are training with me."

"Yeah. I need to get used to the new weight and size, and only then can I do what I want to."

"You even know the basics of adaptation. Why aren't you using them?"

"I adapt best in a fight. I'm a winger, mainly. I think on the spot, but if I'm not used to the weapon I'm using, my skill with said weapon is useless... Wait, why didn't I think of that before?" He stuck Force Stealer in the ground, and moved his hands into the original Cross seal. "Shadow Clone Jutsu!" About 100 Narutos appeared, while the original pulled out Force Stealer.

"Why do this?"

"Think about it. I adapt quickly, and learn on the fly. If I use it in somewhat real combat, that should help me out a bit."

"Good. You're actually thinking on how to train."

"Begin!" The Original yelled. 3 came up at a time. When one went down, another took its place. He managed to take them out, thinking less and less on using the blade, and more on dodging and countering. After a while, his thoughts stopped almost completely, and Force Stealer noticed. He didn't call him on it until after he was done.

"I must say, I'm impressed. You learn better in practical application than in theory."

"Yet another reason why I'm considered a winger." Naruto was panting a bit, so he sat down. "I think I need a break for a bit. Besides, Haku's coming."

"I really like you kid. I'm glad I stuck around. However, I'll seal myself into your hand with the previous seal. Later." Force Stealer went poof, and the seal reappeared.

Haku walked into the area. "So, what are you doing out here?"

"Training. I have to get better if I'm going to complete my task. I can't do that if I don't train. Luckily, I just now sat down for a break. Care to join me?"

Haku nodded and sat down next to him. "We let Gato know of your little warning. Needless to say, he was scared shitless."

"Not surprised." Naruto replied.

"By the way, what did you mean by your task? Gato is not that much of a threat to you is he?" Haku asked.

"I wasn't talking about Gato. I'm talking about the reason Kitsune Warrior was born. At least, one of the reasons."

"There is more than one?"

"Yeah. One is to hide my identity from those who actually hate me, and yes there are a lot of people back home who do. Kitsune Warrior is an alias I came up with, thanks to the reason they hate me. Or to be more precise, said reason came up with it." Naruto replied.

"What else? Or should I even bother to know?"

"It is to kill someone in particular. Not many know of my status of Kitsune Warrior, so I'd advise you keep that information a secret."

"Why do you wish to kill someone?"

"A few reasons. The biggest one is he is the reason behind the reason people hate me, if that makes any sense."

Haku was in thought. "So, this man caused an event, which led to another event, which probably led to you becoming a Jinchuuriki, or something. Right?"

Naruto looked at the guy. "You know, you're good."

"Well, I am highly observant. I can't really say you have yet to take a life. Zabuza can't say that either. In fact, I think he's actually afraid of you."

"Wouldn't be surprised. After all, I did take on a fully possessed Jinchuuriki and win. Sure it was the Sanbi, but hey, I was 5." Naruto said, smiling. "What about you?"

"I'm not really for taking lives. I'm more of a last resort for him, being his current apprentice. Although, I think that he believes I surpassed him." Haku replied.

"Given your Chakra Levels, I'd say your almost even. At least from back then. He has increased his a bit since then, but not by much. By the way, how, exactly did Gato react when you told him?"

-Flashback-

Zabuza was in a bed, resting up. A short pudgy man came in. "So, the Demon of the Hidden Mist is defeated? You're just a false advertiser."

"You weren't there, Gato. You have no idea who they are, but I have a feeling one of them, you do know." Zabuza got out.

"Enlighten me, then. This should be somewhat good." Gato replied.

"The Kitsune Warrior was among them." Gato paled. "Aside from that, Sharingan no Kakashi was there. That makes an A-rank shinobi, and a SS-rank shinobi. Why he even let me live is a mystery in itself."

"He did notice that Zabuza was working for you. He did give me a warning for you. He said that he's back, with his warning intact. Do you know what that means?" Haku asked.

"You're going to need more than this to take that bastard down." Gato said, surprising Zabuza. "I'll be looking for someone else to help you out in this. At least try to get along. Tazuna has gone to Second Priority. That Kitsune Bastard is Top Priority."

-Flashback KAI!-

"I take it you rattled him badly back with your little warning?" Haku asked.

"Have you found out who it was yet?" Naruto asked. Haku shook his head. "Figures. I doubt that he would go after me on his own. After all, I did take down a lot of powerful people. He knows of my reputation, and he'd need at least a S-rank Shinobi to take me down alongside Zabuza, and even then it's likely that they wouldn't win. I'm more dangerous now than I was against Yagura, and even then I was holding back. Granted, I was weakened with both summons, but you get the idea."

"Summons?"

"I'm not going into it. If you want an explanation about that particular fight, ask Zabuza. Near as I can figure, he was watching. Just know that I have no comments to make on the day. Aside from the fact I came up with the plan myself... with Akane, which he would say is the fox that was there." Naruto said. "If you'll excuse me, I have to train. You want the story of how I defeated Sanbi no Yagura, ask Zabuza. He should know."

Haku nodded. "By the way, you're not going to believe this, but I'm actually a girl."

Naruto stood stock still. 'Did not see that coming.'

"And you're somehow okay with that?"

'Oddly enough, yeah. I'm not going to chase her around if that's what you're thinking.'

"Didn't say you were."

'You didn't say I wasn't either.'

"Touche."

"Uh, Naruto?" Haku asked.

"Sorry. Spaced out for a second. That last comment of yours was a little surprising. Quick question. Did you and Zabuza... you know..."

Haku blushed deep red. "N-no. W-why would you think that?" Haku was stuttering. Naruto noticed she was embarrassed.

"You haven't, but you want to, don't you?" Haku took that moment to fall on her back with a nosebleed. 'Wow, didn't take her for a pervert.'

"What? You think girls can't be perverts?"

'Never said that. Anko is a bit of a pervert herself, even though she won't admit it.'

"So you noticed."

'Yeah, but she's never like that with me. For that, I'm glad.'

"Let's get to a different section of the forest, and continue to train."

'Sure thing. But first, I think some protection is in order.'

"Come again?"

'You'll see.'

3 minutes later, Naruto was leaving Haku, who was still out of it. There were four seals on trees inducing a Genjutsu and 3 barriers. Haku wasn't able to be noticed the moment that Naruto left the barriers.

'Alright, time to find another spot.'

"About time."

'You want something from me, don't you?'

"Yes, but you wouldn't want to give it. You care for Hinata too much to do that with me."

'You're right, but right now... You know what? I think I can oblige.'

"You mean it?" Akane was suddenly happy.

'As long as you don't mention it to her, she'll never know.'

-a few days later-

Haku and Zabuza were completely rested up. They were waiting for the new help that was supposed to arrive. A man in a Black Cloak with Red clouds on it came in. The man seemed to have Onyx eyes, and Raven colored hair. "So, your the one that's supposed to help us?"

"Yes." The man replied.

"You got a name, brat?" Zabuza asked.

"Yes."

"Can you answer with more than one syllable?"

"Maybe."

Gato came in. "Itachi, you better get along with him. That Kitsune Warrior is a mess waiting to happen."

"The Kitsune Warrior, eh? You didn't say anything about him being the target." Itachi replied.

"You already know who he is, huh?"

"Not who, but what. And that very what is something that my organization is after. However, I need him Mangled and unconscious. Not dead." Itachi replied.

"Whatever. As long as he is dead when your done with him, I've got no problems." Gato said, as he walked out.

"So, your name is Itachi, huh? Surname is Uchiha?" Zabuza asked, to which a nod was his answer.

"That's strange. An Uchiha is guarding the Secondary target, along with Kitsune Warrior." Zabuza stated.

"Male or female?"

"Does it matter?"

"Male means my brother. Female means my mother, both of whom I couldn't find that night." Itachi stated.

"Well, well. Even the biggest rogues have quirks. Yours is that you failed what you were doing."

Haku stepped up to him. "It was a male. There is another blonde male among them. Another is a Hyuuga. This is obvious by her eyes. Among them is Sharingan Kakashi."

Itachi looked at Haku. "The blonde one is my target. The others are useless to me."

Haku and Zabuza looked at him, then at each other. They nodded. Haku left in a Shunshin. "Where is she going?"

"Out. She does that. Why? I don't know, and frankly, I don't care. I doubt she wants to die a virgin, as I'm guessing you are." Zabuza said.

"Hn."

"Well I'll be. You really need to get yourself laid." Zabuza stated.

"Don't even think about it."

-with Naruto-

Naruto noticed that Haku was coming back. "So, Haku. What's the news?"

"The new arrival is here. He is specifically after you. As to why, I don't know." Haku replied, to which, Naruto tensed.

"Black Cloak? Red Clouds on it?"

"Yes."

"Well, back to the drawing board." Haku was surprised at his response. "What's his name? Or did he even tell you?"

"Gato called him Itachi. He is an Uchiha." Naruto tensed up. "He is not a true criminal as most believe. His reason for exterminating his clan was on orders. I know this, because his clan was planning a coup detat. He was ordered to stop it. His brother is here, as well. This won't end good. Not by a longshot."

"What should I tell Zabuza?"

"Give us 3 days, and be at the bridge. Bring Itachi with you." Haku stared at him. He was now looking at her with determination in his eyes. "He will see things my way."

Haku nodded. "Anything else I should tell him?"

"Yeah. Be prepared to face off with a partially pissed off Jinchuuriki." Naruto said. "Now get lost. I have things to take care of."

Haku raised an eyebrow, but walked off. Naruto had shunshin'ed out himself.

-Tazuna's place, that evening-

Team 7 was at the table, with Tazuna, Tsunami, and Inari.

"Kakashi, we've got more problems ahead." Naruto said.

"What could be worse than Zabuza at this point?" Hinata asked.

"Akatsuki." Kakashi, Hinata and Sasuke went pale. They heard of the name, and knew that they'd be after Naruto.

"Do you know who?" Hinata asked.

"The brother of one here." Sasuke tensed up. "No... He couldn't be..."

"He is. Gato hired him, and now he's after Kitsune. Itachi knows that Kitsune is a Jinchuuriki. I'm willing to bet he knows of which one as well." Naruto stated.

"By the way, Haku did tell me the guy seriously needs to get laid." Everyone present sweatdropped. "Her words, not mine. She also said she was a virgin herself. That makes me more than a little suspicious, don't you think?"

Sasuke paled. "I don't even want to know." He shook off any fear he had. "If Itachi is here, he's obviously going after Tazuna."

Naruto shook his head. "The first priority has been changed. As to why, I think Gato's looked at his options, and thinks that I'm a bigger threat than Tazuna."

Everyone stared at him and began wondering how much of a threat he truly is to Gato. "Itachi will need me alive if he wants to take Akane out of me." Some of them sighed in relief. "Thing is, I know the perfect way to stop him from using any of his Sharingan Techniques. Heck, even make the fight between me and him one-sided."

Sasuke's eyes went wide. "You're just going to let him kill you?"

Naruto chuckled darkly. His voice suddenly went deeper. "There is no problem here." The new voice, only team 7 recognized. It was Akane. "I did teach him a Technique, not a Jutsu that will force an opponent into his mindscape, thus forcing him into his own mindscape. Itachi himself will not be able to leave unless Naruto and myself are dead. Meaning his efforts will be useless."

Hinata and Sasuke were borderline ready to faint. Sasuke even more than Hinata. Kakashi just stared at him. "Akane, what the hell do you mean?"

"Ask Hinata what happens to her Byakugan when she tries to activate it in his mindscape. The same would happen to a Sharingan user." Akane paused, so Hinata could speak.

"I activate it, and it shuts off instantly. I can't even see anything with it before it shuts off."

"Exactly. And unless he knows how to anticipate moves from a split second image, nothing will work in his favor. What's more is, Naruto's Chakra levels are virtually limitless in there. The moment he uses any it's automatically back to full. Put simply, while Itachi has his own power source, Naruto's power source is all around him there, so Itachi can run out, and perish forever, while Naruto has a limitless supply of Chakra to use, even if he doesn't draw on mine. The downside to this particular technique is that, even though Itachi's full body is brought in there, Naruto's body will stay, making him collapse. This leaves him vulnerable to outside attack, and death."

"That should be considered a Forbidden Jutsu." Kakashi stated.

"Not when it isn't a Jutsu in the first place. A Jutsu uses Chakra. This uses only one portion of chakra, not Chakra period. It is pure Spiritual Energy that he uses. This is the reason it cannot be called a Jutsu. At least, in my opinion."

Everyone stared at him. Hinata sighed at this. "Akane, what do you think the possibility of Naruto-kun beating Itachi out here is?"

"Honestly? Less than 1% if he doesn't activate that Sharingan of his. In his mindscape, the odds of him winning against Itachi is far above 99%, but not quite a completely decided fight. That's all I can really say on that."

Sasuke and Hinata nodded. "It makes sense." Kakashi stated. "Being in his mindscape basically makes it a home-field advantage. That is one advantage that Itachi could never get."

Everyone stared at Kakashi. Tazuna spoke first. "Kakashi, what do you mean by that?"

"Naruto and Itachi are both from the same village. For that reason, there is no real home-field advantage in this realm. However," Kyuubi paused. "In a mindscape, the owner of the mindscape has full control over it, and has a virtually limitless supply of energy, Chakra, and the like. The only way Itachi could take him down, as far as I can tell, is if Naruto makes too many mistakes. That's not likely."

Everyone nodded. "So, the main thing we have to worry about is if Zabuza decides to take advantage of his limp body? That's a little much isn't it?" Kakashi asked.

"True as that is, a ninja must do anything they can to succeed. Hinata, you remember that little gift I gave you?" She nodded, confusing the others. "That gift will come in handy here. I would rather explain it to you in private, but at this point, I don't think it would be a good idea. Empathy and telepathy are two of the most noticeable features, but only with me and Naruto. Remember that, and you'll be good."

"Wait, what do you mean only with you and Naruto?" Sasuke asked, not really caring what else was going on, instead of what the gift is.

"I think I could tell you what the gift was, but it was only part of it. She didn't explain the rest of it, so I don't know much about it. Now I know something about this, and I think I can understand why she gave it to me in the first place." Hinata replied, a blush on her face.

"And on that, you're right. Just know that Naruto hasn't gotten those particular abilities yet, so it's only a one sided thing for the time being. I hope you get the general idea so far."

"I know what they both do. As to why you're included, I don't know."

"As Shikamaru put it, though we are not the same, we are one. Therefore, I know what he thinks, and if you can tell him something through thought alone, I can hear it as well. Of course, until he can use it himself, if you contact me like that, he won't hear a thing." Hinata nodded, as did Kakashi. Sasuke was still a little confused.

"Uh, why is Naruto-niisan talking like that? I mean, it's kind of weird." Inari asked.

"Because in a sense, I am Naruto, but at the same time, not Naruto. It's confusing for someone of your age, so I won't go into detail on that."

Inari blinked 3 times, and then nodded. "Now I get it. You're not Naruto-niisan talking, but someone else talking through him."

"Did not see that coming." Everyone looked at Akane for a full minute. "What? I didn't expect him to understand it that quickly. I mean, the concept was hard for Naruto to grasp, and he and I shared a mind link naturally for 4 years when I explained it."

Hinata just nodded. "Well, he is extremely dense. Especially in most relationships."

"Nah, he isn't, he just doesn't want to admit it. Through said link I know how he feels about certain people. Everyone here is on good terms, but every now and then, his mind wanders to 2 places in particular. Suna and Kumo, to be more precise."

"Why am I not surprised?" Kakashi asked, though no one answered. "I'm willing to bet that there are people in particular that his mind wanders to in those places?"

"Yes, and I think you know who as well."

"Gaara, Yugito, and Kirabi, correct?"

"Spot on. Still, he knows that Kirabi can handle himself, and Yugito is training under him. Gaara, however, he worries about more, being as he was always alone, and without him, Gaara might have gone insane."

"If something highly traumatizing gets to him, he won't be the same until they meet each other again." Kakashi stated. "If that happens, hopefully they remember that promise they made."

"Kakashi-sensei?" Hinata asked, suddenly curious. "What exactly did they promise each other?"

"I think we should let Naruto handle this one."

"Not tonight. We have 3 days until they strike, but that will be everything. Tomorrow evening, he'll explain."

Everyone nodded. "Anyway, we're going to the roof. It's a lot better than the room, and we both tend to like watching the stars every now and then. I think the trip caused that."

Kakashi nodded, and Naruto fazed out.

"Anyone else bugged by that other person with Naruto's body?" Tsunami asked.

00000x00000

Chapter End

Don't ask me why this ended the way it did. I just got a review saying to post the next chapter, and tried finishing it up. Something I figured would be a good idea, however, I just didn't know where to go, as usual.

So, I just started typing, letting my hands roam on their own. They do that, things turn out better. Still, this one is best worked on during a Paperwork Influx, which unfortunately, or fortunately in my personal opinion, I don't have.

Seriously, that shit is annoying as hell!

At least it gives me a good enough distraction to not focus on the typing, and focus on a boring subject, which kind of gives me an edge. Some say to focus on the task at hand, while I do something differently.

For me, winging it works better than planning things out when it comes to typing. Seriously, though. So you know, the first 3 chapters of this story was typed up in one day. Almost 10 hours, including maybe 30 minutes twice for meals, and I got the first 3 chapters done, thanks to Paperwork Influx.

Take that tidbit of info into account if you wish to criticize my method of uploading. Chapter 5 has a bit less of a detailed explanation, but this story was started on the second day.

I can honestly say that I love to keep myself guessing in my stories. It helps me wonder what's going to happen next, but everything seems to follow a set pattern, that I don't realize until I look back on it, something I don't really like doing, but when I think back, I realize one thing leads to another, and then another, and when I finally realize what's going on, it's already happened.

It's a shame that some don't like a massive update. Well, I just got this to say:

I don't care if the update is big or not. If I can update, more likely than not, I will, unless I'm too caught up doing something else... which is mainly reading.