Journey of a King
11
''Welcome Kazekage-dono.'' Tsunade greeted Gaara as he entered her office along with his two siblings. ''I take it the trip went well?''
''Thank you Hokage-dono and yes, we arrived here without any problems.''
Tsunade nodded as she looked down at the papers on her desk before back towards Gaara. ''My anbu reported that you came along with a blond male, woman and child. Is this true?''
A slight nod was her reply. ''Yes, they asked us to escort them here to watch the Chunin Exams. They are a noble family that settled down in Suna shortly after the war and didn't want anything to happen to them while traveling to your village.''
''I see. Still, for the Kazekage himself to escort them they must be quite important.'' She attempted to prod for more info.
''They are. They have giving us large funds to be able to live safely and even the Daimyo himself wanted for us to make sure they are well protected.''
''Interesting.'' Gears were spinning in her head and Tsunade figured they could perhaps gain a rich client if they would be impressed during the Chunin Exams. Along with that, the Daimyo would allow them more funding in order to stay on top as strongest of the five villages
''Anyway, if you excuse us my siblings along with myself will take our leave. We've been traveling for almost the entire day and wish to rest.''
''Of course, do wish an escort?''
Gaara waved his hand. ''No, we'll be able to find it without any problems.'' Having said that he turned around and exited the office, Temari and Kankuro trailing behind.
''Jiraiya!'' Tsunade called as Jiraiya seemingly shimmered in existence.
''Yes, Hime?''
''I want you to see who this mysterious family is. From the way he was talking there seemed to be more to it than them just a wealthy family.'' Jiraiya nodded his head in acceptance though he already had a good guess who they really were which was why he was confused why Gaara risked it by lying to the Hokage.
''Very well Hime, i'll be out then. Tell Minato and Kushina i'll visit them later if you see them.'' With that Jiraiya walked to the other side of the office before jumping out of the window.
''Do you think that was smart?'' Kankuro asked his younger brother once they were outside. ''Lying to the Hokage like that?'' His voice was near a whisper to make sure no one else was listening in.
''Perhaps. Despite how it looked don't think she believes what i told her, though. I could sense another chakra signature in the office with her, it was hidden quite well but i could still sense it. It was quite large as well, matching with the Hokage herself.''
''We'll see, what are we going to do now Gaara?'' Temari asked.
''Let's check up on Naruto and his family before heading to our hotel.''
Located in the middle of the village, inside of a small shop Yasaka and Naruto watched with amused expressions as Kunou devoured bowl after bowl of the noodle dish that was being served.
The stack of empty bowls growing bigger and bigger as the owner of the stall reminiscing of a young blond boy that was capable of eating this much.
Naruto and Yasaka each had their own bowl, both eating at a much more considerate pace than their daughter who seemed to have thrown any eating etiquette out of the window the moment she had her first taste of the food.
''Careful not to choke Kunou-chan.'' Naruto commented absentmindedly as he finished his own bowl. Looking over to his right past Kunou he saw that Yasaka too was finished eating and was watching Kunou eat. Their eyes met for a brief moment as she directed a smile at him.
''C'mon Ino, we're here.'' A familiar voice reached his ears and he suppressed the urge to twitch.
Yasaka turned to her right as a person took the seat next to her. She was a girl, around 18 she would guess with platinum blonde hair done in a high ponytail. She wore a quite revealing purple outfit which gave much attention to her body. She seemed to be talking to the other girl who sat down as well.
This one had short pink hair which reached her shoulders wearing what appeared to be a sleeveless red dress with white trimmings held together by a black obi. As she turned her head to face the blonde girl she saw she had green eyes and a small purple colored gem on her forehead.
''I'm sorry who are you?'' The pink haired girl suddenly ask causing Ino to turn around, an action she quickly regretted as she was staring at what seemed like the most gorgeous woman she had laid her eyes on.
Golden blonde hair along with matching exotic looking eyes that held slitted pupils. Along with that she had pale, unblemished skin with pink, supple lips that were positioned in a smile.
While Ino wouldn't call it perfection, largely due to not knowing what perfection entrailed, this woman before her was probably the closest thing to said term she had ever seen. Even Tsunade, the woman who was proclaimed as most beautiful kunoichi would not hold a candle when compared to whomever this woman was.
''My name is Yasaka,'' She told both girls. ''Me and my family are here to see these.. Chunin Exams.''
Both girls leaned to the side, allowing the to see the small figure of Kunou who was sitting between her and the blond male who wasn't looking at them. He seemed familiar though yet they couldn't quite put their fingers on it.
They were quite shocked though as they saw the large stack of empty bowls in front of the girl who looked not even old enough to attend the academy here. It reminded them of Naruto who used to devour the bowls like they were nothing.
''Say Yasaka was it, is this your first time here?'' Ino couldn't help but ask, wanting to know more about this blonde woman.
''Yes it is, my husband is born here and I wanted to see it for myself.''
''And your husband…'' Ino trailed off.
Before Naruto could stop her from answering Gaara arrived along with his siblings.
''Gaara-dono, what brings you here?'' Sakura asked the red haired male in the group.
''I'm here to direct them to their place of staying.'' He gestured over to the trio of blondes. ''Are you ready to go?''
''Yes.'' It was Naruto that answered still not looking to either him or the two girls from Konoha. He paid for the food before lifting Kunou up as he stood up himself. Her head covering part of his face so they couldn't see his red eyes which would give him away immediately. He looked at Gaara and gave him a nod in thanks before standing next to his wife.
''Very well. Let us go.''
''Actually…'' Temari interrupted. ''I'm going to see if i can stay with Shikamaru.'' She informed the group who all sans Naruto and his family were aware that the two were in a relationship.
''Fine, be at our hotel early tomorrow.'' Temari nodded before waving them goodbye as she walked off.
''We'll walk you there.'' Ino said before she and Sakura too walked off and quickly catching up with her.
Once there were no more interruptions Gaara began moving to the hotel they would be staying at. The most expensive one in the village to make sure there were rooms free. Not to mention that he knew Naruto would expect nothing less for himself and his family.
As they walked the crowd parted ways for them, more looks were sent their way. Ones they paid no attention to having gotten used to it by now. Suddenly Naruto spotted two blondes and a red haired woman heading into their direction as his fingers twitched just incase something were to happen.
Much to his silent relief they seem to completely ignore both him and the Kazekage as the two older ones seemed to pay attention to something the younger blonde girl was saying, nodding every now and then as she finished a sentence.
Looking at his wife he noticed that she didn't seemed to have noticed them either. As instead she was looking at various shops they passed with barely concealed curiosity.
''We can visit those shops tomorrow if you want, Yasaka-chan.'' He said making her look at him and smile in thanks.
The sound of soft snores reaching his ears caused him to look down slightly. A fond smile made itself known onto his face as he watched Kunou who was leaning into him after having fallen asleep. He carefully tightened his hold on her, watching as she seemed to mumble something with a smile.
A few aws and exclamations about how cute and adorable they looked were heard from women they passed who watched the scene between father and daughter play out.
They arrived at a hotel, an expensive looking one he mused as he noticed the interior. They walked up to the front desk were a young man was sitting, greeting them as they stood before him.
''Can i help you?''
''Yes,'' Gaara replied. ''My brother and i have a room reserved.'' The young man looked down at what Naruto assumed was a registration form before up at Gaara and slowly his eyes widened.
''A-ah of course Kazekage-dono.'' He opened a drawer and rummaged through it before retrieving a key that belonged to their room. ''What about your… friend here.'' He asked slightly uncomfortable under the blond man's gaze.
''I'd like the best room you have available. One that can hold three people.'' He looked back at the blonde woman who stood not too far behind.
''I see…. What is your name sir?''
''Uzumaki Naruto.'' He swiftly replied as the man wrote it down.
''W-wait a minu-'' He was cut off as he had looked up, his eyes glazed over as Naruto was staring right into his eyes. Like a robot that was programmed to do something the young man once more opened the drawer before retrieving the right key which Naruto quickly took from his hands before walking towards Yasaka and Kankuro.
''Let's go.'' He dangled the key in between his fingers before handing it over to her.
Unfortunately due to this world not being up to their own standards when it came to technology they had to take the stairs up for several stories.
''This is our floor.'' Gaara spoke up.
''Hmm, ours is a few more up.'' Naruto commented as he looked to where the number was shown. ''Well, let's keep going. See you around Gaara.'' He waved him off before they continued their walk.
Finally arriving at their floor they searched for their room number which was placed somewhere in the middle of the floor. Unlocking the door Yasaka stepped inside followed by Naruto who still carried Kunou.
The room was big, they both noted. Much bigger than the inn they stayed at before which made sense. Before they could do anything else a knock was heard on their door. Naruto and Yasaka looked at another before he sighed. ''I'll get it. Can you put Kunou in bed?'' Yasaka gave a nod as she walked up to him and removed her from his hands.
''What?'' He asked after opening the door and coming face to face with Jiraiya.
''Nice to see you too.'' Jiraiya greeted him ignoring the expression he held.
''Yea, yea whatever. What brings you here, hm?''
''Tsunade wanted me to check up on you, or the guests that arrived with Gaara.''
''She sent you to spy on me you mean?''
''Well…'' He chuckled nervously.
''Perhaps i should inform Gaara of that order. I doubt he would like to hear that. No doubt he would sent the message to your Daimyo that your Hokage has sent you to spy on an important guest, a potential client.'' He said with slight mockery at the latter suggestion.
''I uh, i see. I'll let Tsunade know when i return then hehehe.''
Naruto nodded. ''You do that. Anything else? Did you manage to hook up with that old hag yet?''
''No… i haven't.'' He mumbled before looking in his eyes. ''I have spoken with your parents however.''
''What of it?'' He asked with an uncaring tone making the older male sigh.
''Naruto… I'm telling, no, asking you to give your parents a chance and listen to them. To their story before making any conclusion. I spoke with them and could tell they are genuinely sorry and wish to properly know you.''
''Jiraiya, i told you before it's too late for them to attempt to form any bonds. I no longer am that lonely child i once was, one that craved for attention. A child that craved for a parents love. No, i'm beyond that now. I'm an adult, one with their own responsibilities which include having a wife and a daughter to take care of.''
''But what about your daughter? Are you not going to introduce her to her grandparents? Does she even know she had grandparents?''
''No, as far as i'm aware she does not know about my parents, her grandparents so as far as introducing them that it's a mute point. And if she does ask about them i'll make something up, perhaps retell one of their ''heroic stories'' while leaving out the part how they damned a child to a life loneliness for the first decade of their life? Their own child, that is.''
''So there is no chance you will be willing to meet them.''
''No, let them dote over my sister or whatever. Since she is supposed to be my replacement she can have all their attention to herself as i am not in need of any that they have to offer. Now, is there anything else you need or are you done. If so tell me so i can go and sleep with my wife.''
''No… i… i am done. Goodnight.'' Naruto watched as Jiraiya turned around and walked off. He sighed before he closed the door and saw Yasaka standing there, looking at him expectantly.
''What?''
''Is that true what you said, about your own parents?''
Naruto walked past her to the direction the bedroom should be at. ''Yes Yasaka-chan, i told you before didn't i? I care not for them. As for Kunou… If she somehow finds out and really and i mean really wants to meet them i might, emphasis on might, let them meet. But only because Kunou wishes for it, not them. Now that i think about it, it probably would hurt them even more to discover i have a daughter and a wife for so long without their notice…'' He muttered the last part to himself but Yasaka still heard him.
Frowning slightly she followed him into the bedroom, her frown quickly turning into a smile as she watched him already lying in bed. Changing into something more comfortable, something which allowed her tails freedom to move around. Lifting up the covers she got into bed with him, slowly moving closer to him till she was pressed against him, his chin resting on the top of her head placed between her ears. Her tails came up from behind her and curled around him. Pleased with herself, she allowed the rhythm of his heartbeat to lull her into sleep.
It was early in the morning as the sun had rose not too long ago breathing life into Konoha. Civilians and shinobi alike could already be seen walking through the streets visiting various shops that did their best to make their store look more attractive for the large influx of visitors that have come to visit Konoha for the Chunin Exam finals.
Sitting at a table in a bar, one that was surprisingly open despite it being this early in the day one would be able to see the current Hokage, Tsunade Senju down bottle after bottle of Sake down her throat. A slight flush covered her cheeks showing she had been at it for quite a while though no one dared to interrupt her in fear of retaliation.
While to others it might look that she was out of it, the reality was quite different.
Her mind was still on what Jiraiya had told her yesterday evening after returning from the assignment she had given him which was to spy on the blondes that came with Gaara. She still hadn't seen them herself but figured it would happen eventually since Jiraiya told her they were here for the Chunin Exams that'll be happening in a few days.
However there were other things that concerned her. The first was that they were able to sense him, Jiraiya a spy master of the highest caliber sensed by a supposed civilian? No, that was simply not possible. Even the average jonin had trouble sensing Jiraiya whenever he was around and this random man, a man who Gaara had said was a noble could sense him with ease? Pff.
But that meant Gaara had lied to her when he told her he was just a civilian. Lying to a foreign Kage about something potentially dangerous could be grounds for war and she knew that while young Gaara was far from stupid. Suna could risk a war against Konoha, especially now they had both Minato Namikaze and Kushina Uzumaki back with them and their daughter, Nami who held a very promising future as a Jounin.
Unless Gaara was counting on Konoha not able to afford war either with how tensions have been for the last few years since the end of the war. No doubt Gaara assumed one of the other three villages would take it as an opportunity to strike against Konoha for past grudges, some that included for being the reason for the fourth Shinobi war happened due to it being caused by two former leaf Shinobi; Uchiha Madara and Uchiha Obito.
She sighed, she really wished she had either Naruto or Sasuke in the village during these times. Their power would no doubt make other think twice about attempting to strike Konoha, after all they had defeated the mother of chakra herself with powers inherited from the legendary Sage of Six Paths himself.
Stopping herself from shaking her head she managed to run through a sequence of handsigns before a green glow surrounded her hand which she promptly pressed against her forehead, immediately feeling it go to work as she felt the effects from the alcohol she had consumed disappear.
Putting down the money for the drinks she had consumed she stood up before making her way outside. The minute she stepped outside she felt something or someone impact her legs.
Glancing down to see who or what it was her eyes promptly widened.
There, having landed on what Tsunade presumed was her rear was a young girl presumably no older than seven or eight years old clad in a white summer dress. The young girl pouted as she looked up at the older woman, an action that made her adorable in her and the surrounding people's eyes, allowing her to see her exotic looking eyes before she helped herself stand and dusted off her clothes. While a few passersby stopped and stared at the scene, Tsunade herself was focused on something completely different.
Her eyes were focused on the piece of jewelry that was dangling around the young girl's neck. It was a necklace, a very, very specific necklace that was familiar to her. How could it not, she was the one who used to wear it before giving it to a certain blond boy. So how? How did this young girl have the necklace that Naruto should have in possession, she could even feel it holding chakra that was so familiar to her.
''How do-'' Tsunade was interrupted as a woman's voice spoke over her own.
''Kunou?'' Tsunade watched as the crowd parted allowing a blonde woman to walk through clad in a expensive looking kimono that hugged her body.
'She's pregnant.' Tsunade noted as she could see the slight baby bump due to the kimono she wore. With a single glance Tsunade was able to see that this woman was the younger blonde's mother as she looked exactly like an older version of her aside from the small differences that most likely were from whomever the father was.
''Are you okay?'' She looked her over to see if she was hurt anywhere. Kunou nodded showing that she had no wounds. ''Mou musume… didn't your father and i say to not walk off by yourself.''
''Sorry Kaa-chan.'' The young girl said as she bowed her head before looking feeling her hair being ruffled.
''It's fine,'' She looked at the blonde woman her daughter had run into. Taking note that she had a similar colored gem on her forehead. ''Are you alright? She didn't hurt you, did she?''
Tsunade shook out of her stupor as the woman addressed her while noticing the calming aura she had around her yet could still feel an enormous amount of power locked within her. Civilians her ass, she scoffed inwardly. One young child who was wearing a necklace that should be in possession of Naruto and now this young woman who she could tell held an amount of power that could match her own.
Now that she got a better look at the younger girl she took notice of her blonde hair that was so similar to her mother's yet held a shade in them she had only seen three times in her life. The first was Minato while the second was Naruto himself and the last was Nami. Aside from that her eyes that were golden, a very uncommon if not outright rare color that held bits of red around the edges. The same shade of red she had seen in Naruto's eyes before he had left them at the end of the war.
Her eyes widened… This woman and young girl… They couldn't be Naruto's.. Could they? The girl looked older than it should if it indeed was Naruto's daughter, even with the time difference between their worlds. Unless he had her before than that, during the supposed training trip when he had already changed. While he would be very young it wasn't unheard off with how short a Shinobi's life span could be. The fact that she was wearing the necklace she had given him only reaffirmed her suspicion.
Blinking, Tsunade noticed that both woman and her daughter had left. The surrounding people having continued what they were doing and made her way to the Hokage tower. She would get her answers either from Jiraiya or Gaara. After that inform Minato and Kushina that there was a possibility Naruto was here, in the village along with his wife and daughter. A small smirk formed as she could already imagine Kushina's reaction when she would tell her that she was a grandmother.
Yasaka watched as the woman wearing a green haori widened her eyes and shrugged, taking it as a sign that everything was okay before walking off while holding Kunou's hand in her own to make sure she wouldn't walk away from her.
Naruto stood somewhat awkwardly looking around not that he cared however as he searched around for Yasaka who had told him she would go look for Kunou despite him offering to do it for her.
After a while he spotted the familiar blonde hair that Yasaka held as she made her way over to him.
''Where did you find her?'' He asked Yasaka as he looked at Kunou who averted her gaze from him.
''Not too far away thankfully. It seems she had bumped into someone.''
''Hoh?''
''Ahuh.'' She nodded. ''A blonde older looking female wearing a green haori and had some sort of purple gem on her forehead like that pink haired girl yesterday.''
Naruto closed his eyes. ''I see.'' Was all he said while not showing any further reaction to her words. Already knowing who it was that Kunou ran into of all people that were inside the village. ''Let's continue since you were interested in seeing some of these small shops.''
Yasaka smiled as they continued looking through several small stores which sold all sorts of miscellaneous items Yasaka showed interest too. Items which he had no idea what their use was but bought them nonetheless to please her.
''Huh…'' Naruto suddenly exclaimed as he spotted something interesting. Yasaka turned to see what he was looking at before having a similar reaction. There placed on a counter not too far from them were nine statues, one of which she quickly recognized as the Kyuubi who's called Kurama. She assumed the other statues next to it were from the remaining eight Bijuu.
''How much for all of them?'' Naruto asked who he assumed was the owner.
''All of them?''
''Yes, all of them.'' He gestured to the nine statues.
''Well, they're 2000 ryo each but i'll let all of them go for 16000.'' The owner said as he crossed his arms looking at the blond man expectantly.
''I'll take them.'' Naruto replied before Yasaka could say anything.
Handing over the money, the man counting if it was all correct before nodding once he was satisfied. ''Do you need any help carrying them sir?''
Naruto shook his head as he walked up to them before grabbing the Kyuubi statue and throwing it behind him. Before the man could ask what he was doing he watched as the statue seemingly disappeared mid-air behind him as a slight glow encompassed them.
''Either of you want anything here?'' He asked both his wife and daughter who both shook their head. ''Let's get out of here then.''
As they walked through the streets Naruto placed his arms around her neck only to quickly retract it as Yasaka winced slightly. ''Are you alright?'' He asked concerned.
''Yes, just have had slight pain in the back of my neck and shoulders the past few days. Sorry Naruto-kun.''
Naruto smiled softly. ''It's alright Yasaka-chan, how about you visit the hotspring later today. Perhaps it'll help you relax your muscles and even if it doesn't you still deserve some time to relax. I can take care of Kunou by myself so no worries.''
''Are you sure?'' She turned her head sideways, watching him nod his head. Leaning up slightly she softly pecked his lips. ''Thank you Naruto-kun.'' In front of them Kunou did her best to ignore her parents interactions, not a fan of their public display of affections.
''No problem. Just have to make sure Jiraiya needs to stay away from there as far as possible while you're there.'' Yasaka sweatdropped as she was reminded of the man's favorite pastime.
Jiraiya gulped as he entered the office belonging to the Hokage. The second he had stepped inside he could practically feel the tension which was only amplified by the look Tsunade was sending him.
Damn did he wish he was at a hotspring right now, peeking on all the ladies from around the nations.
''So uh, what did you call me here for?'' He tried to hide his nervousness which failed spectacularly.
''Oh nothing too important. Just that today a small girl bumped into me, perhaps you know her? Blonde hair, golden eyes wearing a white summer dress accompanied by an older blonde woman… Does that ring any bells? And if it didn't perhaps the fact that the young girl was wearing my grandfather's necklace which i gave to Naruto might make you remember.''
Jiraiya said nothing while inwardly he was almost shitting himself.
''Well Jiraiya? How does that small girl come into possession of that specific necklace? If you're not going to talk perhaps i should go over and take it back myself.''
''W-Wait!'' Jiraiya quickly exclaimed in fear. While Tsunade didn't know and probably thought he was worried about the little girl the truth was completely different. He knew, he knew that if Tsunade would walk over and straight up snatch the necklace from Kunou's neck it would end bad. For her.
There was no doubt in his mind Tsunade would either end up hospitalized or killed depending who was present during the time she would take back the piece of jewelry. Yasaka would probably give her a beating she would remember as Tsunade wouldn't stand a chance against her as he didn't know her like he did. The woman was capable of destroying a hidden village all by herself even with her being pregnant.
As for Naruto… He didn't even want to think what would happen as he had seen first hand how protective he was over those two to the point that he would just straight up eradicate the village to make his daughter happy.
''So you do know more then you let on…''
''Well… yes but i…''
''You what, Jiraiya?''
''I can't.. I promised not to mention what he would do to me if he were to find out.''
''If who finds out what?'' She asked, this time a bit more cautiously upon noticing her old teammate looking to be actually afraid of this person.
''I-i'm sorry Hime but i really can't tell you that myself.''
''I see.'' She looked at Jiraiya while thinking over his words.
Then, she blinked as a realisation came to her. ''You said you can't reveal it but what if i ask you questions which you either acknowledge or deny.''
''That… actually works.'' Jiraiya told her with a smirk that mirrored her own.
''Okay, now, this person whomever it is do you know them?'' A nod was her answer.
''Do i know this person?'' Another nod.
''Is it,'' She swallowed before speaking. ''Is it Naruto?'' Unfortunately or fortunately, Jiraiya gave another nod as she sighed before closing her eyes.
''The woman and child i met earlier today are they…'' She trailed off, a slight crack in her voice which did not go unnoticed.
''Yes, they are his wife and daughter.'' Jiraiya replied softly knowing how it hurt Tsunade to know the person she saw as a younger brother had already a family of his own while not wanting anything to do with them.
''You said wife, that means he got married and I wasn't even able to attend.'' She laughed solemnly at the realisation. ''Did you attend?''
''Yes i did… Heh, i'm telling you Tsunade i never saw him more overjoyed than the day they got married.'' He said while smiling in remembrance how happy he was which his chakra reflected with how warm it was.
''And the girl? The one who's his,'' She licked her lips as the word seemed to be stuck in her throat. ''Daughter?'' Still finding it hard to believe it was real.
''Naruto told me it was an accident that happened during his first time there which was when he should've been with me instead of his clone. Despite that though he truly loves both of them with all his heart, willing to do anything to make them happy... I pity the poor fool who would attempt to hurt either of them.'' A haunting look entered his eyes which she noticed and made her somewhat curious.
''Hehe, imagine Kushina's reaction when she learns she's a grandmother.'' Despite her best efforts she couldn't quite keep the snickers from escaping. Jiraiya joining her halfway in before frowning.
''He doesn't want anything to do with them, doesn't he?'' She asked upon noticing his frown.
Jiraiya nodded. ''Correct Hime, despite what i told him he said he has no interest in meeting them. While he doesn't hate them he's far from loving them either, indifferent i would call it. The only way i would see for Kushina and Minato to meet him, his wife and his daughter would be for his daughter to want it first. Like i said, if it would make her happy he will allow them to meet.''
''Is there a way to make her want to meet them?''
Jiraiya thought for a moment before replying. ''Maybe, Naruto told me she's not even aware she has grandparents so perhaps if she somehow finds out and gets curious there might be a chance.''
''I'll look into it later. Do Minato and Kushina know he's here?''
''Of course not. If they had they no doubt would immediately try to meet him which won't end well as he's here for a vacation. Yasaka, his wife, wanted to see where he had grown up. They'll be staying here till the Chunin Exams are over before they go back home, most likely brining me with them as well.''
''So when you told us if you knew Naruto you lied?''
''Yes but that was mainly for my own safety as Naruto would probably kill me if i would've ratted him out and i'm not even joking. Despite what i'm doing now but i have taken it up to myself to try and reconnect their family.''
Tsunade frowned. ''I see, perhaps you can drop a few hints here and there around Minato and/or Kushina. Nothing too big just enough to for them to understand while making clear not to act on their desire to see their son?''
''Mhmm, that's a great idea. It shouldn't be too hard, perhaps introduce them to his wife first while not letting them know who she exactly is. Anyway hime, i'm going now. The hot springs are calling for my name.'' He jumped out of the window leaving Tsunade all alone in her office. Instead of continuing her work she was busy trying to find a way to meet and talk with Naruto. Even just seeing him would remove a giant weight of her shoulders, to see him doing well.
As Jiraiya headed his way into the directions of the hot springs he was distracted as he noticed Naruto and Kunou from the corner of his eyes, Yasaka nowhere to be seen. Curious, he made his way over to them. Watching as his eyes came to rest on his stature.
''Jiraiya, just the person i was looking for.'' Naruto greeted the man who sweated slightly thinking he had been already caught or overheard talking to Tsunade.
''A-ah what is it that you need me for?''
''I need to you stay as far away from the hot springs as possible.'' Jiraiya's eyes widened in disbelief and got ready to retort only to be halted as an incredible amount of killing intent was forced upon him, making him clench his fist in an attempt to fight against it. ''Let me rephrase myself. I order you to stay away from the hot springs. Yasaka is currently there to relax and if i hear that you were spotted there, peeping on my wife we are going to have a problem, understood?'' His voice was calm yet held a deathly undertone to it and Jiraiya couldn't nod faster.
''Good, Kunou and I will be around but if you think that makes you able to peep you better think otherwise as i'm not bluffing. I will end you.''
''O-okay Naruto, i-i get it i will keep my distance.''
Naruto stared in the man's eyes to search for any form of deceit only to find nothing and nodded satisfied. ''Good, goodbye for now. Perhaps i'll see you around.'' He lifted Kunou in his arms before walking a random direction in the village, Jiraiya staring at his back before an idea popped into his mind.
'Perhaps i can get Kushina to go to the hot springs if i tell her she might receive some hints about her son.' He muttered in thought before nodding to himself and heading into the direction of the home she lived in.
While Jiraiya was doing his thing Naruto walking through different sections of the village with Kunou that they hadn't visited before.
''Who lives there?'' Kunou pointed to a large complex which had a pair of males guarding it, both of them having white, pupil less eyes.
''Oh that? That belongs to the Hyuuga clan, they're one of the more important clans in the village. You see their eyes?'' Kunou nodded. ''It allows them to have nearly 360° field of vision. See structures, people or items anywhere from a few feet to several kilometers away. It also allows them to see through objects or people. If you ever have to fight them make sure they don't touch you as they can shut down your chakra pathway system. A good way to fight them is to have simply so much chakra or any other form of energy which causes their eyes to hurt upon looking at you.''
Kunou listened intently at every word he was saying and before she was able to reply a cold feeling washed over her. She shivered visibly before pressing herself deeper in her father's embrace, something he noticed as he quickly leaked small amounts of chakra to make her feel safe.
Looking for the source of the sudden coldness he was surprised as there, walking towards them, or rather the compound behind them was none other than Hinata Hyuuga. He actually had to do a double take as he didn't remember the her at a first glance.
She wore a lavender colored, sleeveless kimono-style blouse with a purple obi around her waist. Dark colored shorts with thigh-high stockings and black heeled boots. A massive difference from the last time he had seen her. What surprised him the most, other than her appearance was the cold look that she wore, her lavender eyes looking at disgust as she noticed others sparing her glances.
All in all she was completely different from the girl he remembered her as. Quite a looker if he had to say so myself, one of the better looking woman he had come across in this world. Unfortunately for them, there were an abundant of them back home with how the woman looked that were either Youkai, Devils or any of the supernatural races.
She walked past them without sparing them a glance much to his relief not wanting to imagine what would've happened if she would've recognized him and noticing he was carrying a young child in his arms.
As she passed them Naruto began making his way to another district, unaware of the fact that a pair of lavender eyes were focused on his back.
''Byakugan.'' Hinata whispered softly as she stared at the retreating back of the blond man that she had walked past. She gasped, attracting the attention of the pair of guards who stood there, guarding the entrance to the compound. ''N-Naruto-kun?'' She exclaimed in confusion and what seemed like disbelief as she noticed the second source of chakra that the man had in his body, one that only Jinchuuriki had. Her expression quickly changed from confusion into a distasteful sneer. ''But who is that girl you're holding…'' She mumbled to herself before shaking her head. ''Whatever, i'll find out myself. And then when we meet we can finally be together like we were supposed to even if i have to get rid of her.'' The guards glanced at another, shifting nervously upon noticing the heiress muttering to herself, a slightly crazed look appearing on her face.
''W-Welcome, Hinata-sama.'' They greeted her with a slight stutter. Thankfully the girl was focused on something completely else as she passed them without a sparing them a glance. She had plans to make.
Yasaka released a pleased sigh as she sunk down into the steaming hot water, immediately feeling her muscles loosening themselves as she leaned back, the water reaching just above her breast. She was the only one there, allowing her to just close her eyes and relax without any worry.
Her eyes shot open as golden eyes peered at the entrance leading to the hot springs as she could see other people entering. She silently berating herself for not paying attention to the surroundings and forgetting that this wasn't Kyoto but a potentially hostile environment.
The first person to enter revealed herself as a woman who looked to be in somewhere in her early thirties if she had to make a guess. Long red hair not crimson like she had seen Gremory have with violet eyes which looked around before settling on her.
Behind her was a younger girl with blonde hair, the exact shade of blond she had seen in her husband. She too had violet eyes like the red haired woman.
Kushina let her eyes wander as she stepped inside the hot springs. Her violet eyes coming to rest on the young, blonde woman that was already there as the only one. Despite only her face being visible Kushina noticed that she was a very beautiful woman with golden blonde hair and exotic looking eyes which seemed to follow every bit of movement she made.
Was this why Jiraiya wanted her to go visit the hot springs? For her to get a good description of this woman? And he even used the excuse that she would find information about her son according to that pervert. Oh Jiraiya was in for a beating when she would return home.
''Kaa-san…''
''Quiet Nami, Jiraiya said we should go here for more information on your brother.'' She said softly to her daughter. Though she herself was really curious what that woman's connection were with her oldest.
Despite the volume of their voice Yasaka easily managed to catch her words with her enhanced hearing and watched as the two swam over. Managed to hear them speak of a 'Jiraiya' who had sent them here and wondered if it was the same one she knew and if so, why had he sent those two here? She was sure Naruto would've told if not outright threatened him to stay away for as long as she was here.
Yasaka watched as both redhead and blonde took the spot next to her. Sighing in bliss as the hot water surrounded their bodies on all sides with their eyes closed.
''Nice huh?'' The redhead next to her suddenly said. ''I can feel my stress disappearing with every minute. Especially nice when dealing with troublemakers all the time regardless of their age.'' Here she sent a quick glance at the blonde girl next to her but it was enough for Yasaka to understand and nod.
''Indeed. Taking care of children can be quite the chore. Thankfully my husband offered to graciously take care of ours so i could relax.'' Yasaka replied after a short moment.
''Oh, you have a child?'' The woman said with slight shock as she looked at her, surprised as she looked so young.
Yasaka hummed softly. ''I do, she's still young though. Close to seven but can certainly be a handful at times.''
''S-Seven!'' The woman exclaimed in shock. ''But you still look so young?!''
Yasaka laughed. ''Trust me, i'm much older than i look.'' By several decades that is.
''I see… Sorry for my sudden outburst but even myself, someone who hails from a clan praised for their vitality didn't look as good as you when i was at that age. I'm Kushina by the way, Uzumaki Kushina.'' She held her hand out for the blonde next to her to take.
Yasaka raised an eyebrow as she introduced herself, especially her last name. 'So this is Naruto-kun's mother? And i assume she is his sister…' She looked at the younger blonde next to Kushina. 'No wonder their hair color is the same since i guess they got it from their father. Why does he hate them since she seems so nice?'
Giving the woman next to her a smile she shook her hand. ''Yasaka, just Yasaka.'' She kept herself from telling her last name which would undoubtedly bring up a whole lot of questions.
''And this is my daughter, Nami.'' Kushina introduced.
''Pleasure to meet you.'' The girl said.
''Likewise.'' Yasaka said before she stood up allowing them to see her slight baby bump before lowering herself after turning around and and rested her arms on the edge with her head placed on top.
''How many months are you in, if you don't mind me asking?'' Yasaka looked at her, noticing the slight saddening of her eyes before answering.
''Almost three months.'' She smiled lovingly as she brought one of her hands down and softly rubbed her stomach, the action causing a pang of guilt to run through Kushina as she was once more reminded of her own pregnancy with Naruto. ''Anything wrong?'' Yasaka asked. ''I noticed your expression shifting into of of sadness.''
''Oh it's nothing hehe. Just reminded me when i was pregnant with my son… Unfortunately he wants nothing to do with my husband, Nami or myself. He's been gone for little two and a half years yet we never stopped looking for him… I'm not sure why i'm even telling you this.'' She laughed while moving hand up to wipe away the tears threatening to fall.
''What is his name, your son that is?''
An incredulous look was sent her way. ''Y-You don't know?'' A shake of her head was her reply. ''Huh, i'm pretty sure everyone everyone knows about him by now. He is one of the two saviors of this world, even if he didn't want to stay here you know.''
Saviour of the world? Yasaka mused, remembering Naruto telling her about it, a title he had been given after saving each person by defeating a goddess along with another person whom he didn't name.
''Uzumaki Naruto is his name. Someone everyone in the world has been looking for the past few years. Whether it is to help all of us or just their own greed.'' She spit the word out like it's poison. ''Even the Daimyo's wanted him found and brought to him which is quite stupid since he's one, if not the strongest Shinobi of his and older generations.'' Kushina released a sigh. ''Well, while this isn't why i came here for i have to say it was still nice speaking with you. Perhaps you would like to come over during your time here, you can bring your husband and daughter with you if you like. I'm sure Minato-kun won't mind and we're always open to meeting different people.''
''I.. I'll think about it.''
''Great! We'll be going now, come Nami-chan.'' Kushina followed by Nami exited the hot springs leaving her once more by herself and with several different thought running through her mind, most of them revolving around her husband and his mother who she had just met.
Deciding she had spent enough time here she stood up, just as the door once more opened and in walked the two girls she had met the day before. Ino and Sakura if she remembered them correctly.
''Hello Yasaka-san.'' Ino greeted the older blonde before she noticed she was nude as she along with Sakura quickly became self conscious about their own appearance the longer they looked at her body.
''Hello Ino-san, Sakura-san if you excuse me it's time for me to leave.'' Yasaka got out while wrapping a towel around herself and walked past them.
''Damn… i'm quite jealous.'' Ino muttered just loud enough for Sakura to hear who snapped out of her dazed state.
''W-whatever, i didn't come here to feel bad about myself.'' Sakura told her friend who noticed the look of annoyance she sported.
''It's okay to be jealous, Sakura. Even i have to admit her body is close to perfect. Perhaps if you would look more like her Sasuke would've actually returned your feelings…'' A large amount of killing intent was focused on her and Ino looked up to see her glaring at her with a vein close to popping on her forehead. ''Ehehehe…'' She chuckled nervously before quickly entering the water while making sure to keep a few feet between them.
In a less populated part of the village, a park to be more precise Naruto could be seen lying on his back. Red eyes gazing upwards, watching as the clouds moved through the sky at what seemed like a snail's pace.
Lying on his chest, soundly asleep was Kunou. She had fallen asleep after a moment of just lying there, the fact that the only sounds they heard were from the animals that inhabited the area around them helped her a lot. Even Naruto himself was tempted to fall asleep but was saved as he heard the chatter of several people that walked past them, often sparing them a glance before ignoring them.
He had come her a little bit over an hour ago after he had finished walking through some of the more important parts of the village, the ones were the major clans resided before finally arriving here, a seemingly tranquil little area.
The sound of footsteps caused him to look at the source from the corner of his eye only for him to see Yasaka calmly making her way to them, smiling as she noticed both of them.
''Hello Yasaka-chan.'' He greeted her softly as one of his hands ran through Kunou's hair.
Yasaka laid herself down next to him, her head coming to rest closely to Kunou's as she joined him in watching the clouds. ''Are you feeling any better?''
Yasaka nodded, humming softly. ''I do. It was very relaxing and i can feel my muscles having lost most of their tension.''
''That's good… How did you find me?''
She laughed softly. ''It took me a bit but i eventually managed to sense your chakra. While it didn't pin-point me the exact spot it helped reducing the area i should've looked for.''
A calming silence reigned after she spoke.
''I spoke with some interesting person while i was there.'' She started while he stayed silent, allowing her to continue to speak. ''It was a woman, one with long red hair and violet eyes.'' She paused to see if he would give some sort reaction but got nothing. ''She introduced herself as Kushina Uzumaki. She was there with her daughter after someone named Jiraiya suggested her to come. It was quite interesting really, the talk we had. Apparently they're all looking for you, Naruto-kun. They want to see you. You're lucky i didn't gave them my last name you know. That said, she has invited me over while telling me to bring along my husband and daughter.'' She felt him tense slightly under her. ''I didn't give her an answer though as i told her i would think about it.''
Yasaka turned around till her face was just a couple of centimeters away as she gazed softly into his eyes. ''I think you should give them a chance, Naruto-kun. You don't have to like them just hear them out. If anything i really just want Kunou to meet the rest of her family… You know what she would love to know them.''
Yasaka could see several conflicting emotions as she stared into his eyes and understood. She understood that while he told everyone he felt nothing, indifference, towards them it was actually not the case. It was just that he had those emotions buried so deeply that he had to actually try to feel anything when they were mentioned as his subconscious suppressed any sort of feelings he had towards them automatically.
''Just think about it okay. I can see how difficult it is for you but i trust you to know what's best. Both for Kunou and yourself.'' She pressed her lips against his in a soft kiss.
''Thank you.'' He whispered softly as they broke the kiss. Both returned their attention back to the cloud filled sky. But whereas Yasaka's mind was clear of any thoughts Naruto was the complete opposite.
End Chapter.
Expect a small time-skip next chapter i'll be posting.