A Change In Konoha
The seal told the tale. The autopsy of the bandit was indeed telling. It was the same seal that Sai had. Sai had only been able to answer questions that they already knew about Danzo. The young man had been unable to move or speak even when asked about Danzo's everyday habits. It had not been bandits that had attacked and kidnapped Naruto. It had been Danzo's Root Anbu that had the taken the Hokage's son.
Tsunade spent the day fuming when she wasn't worried and looking for the Thunderbird's storm. Lord Hiashi had spent a few hours in her office before leaving to take care of his own concerns. In order to distract herself, Tsunade worked and worked and worked.
Throughout the village, life went on. Very little was seen of Naruto's fiancée or Sakura, Sasuke and Takeshi. All those who called him friend were absent from their normal daily activities. After their get-together at the skating rink, none seemed to want be around other people. Normally their presence wouldn't be missed in the village but they were. People were looking for them because unconsciously they were looking for signs of Naruto.
The ninja presence inside the village was also different. Konoha was a hidden village and one of the largest. Most of the time villagers and ninjas mingled with little thought of who was who or the might the shinobi represented. That wasn't the case today. The ninjas weren't at ease. They were wary and on edge. Ninjas roamed the streets looking and watching. Looking for what the villagers did not know but it unnerved them.
When the evening came and those still out and about, many had retreated indoors in case there was trouble, something else upset the villagers. The Hokage walked through the village with Tonton at her side. Lady Tsunade spoke to no one and just barely nodded when she was greeted. What upset them was the fact that she was escorted by six Anbu Black Ops. Most of the time, the Hokage went about the village on her own or with Kotetsu and Izumo or her aide Shizune. The fact that she felt the need to have so many escorts and Anbu at that meant that something was indeed going on.
Tsunade went to his apartment. It was still the best place to feel close to Naruto. The Hinata substitute was best protected on the Hiashi estate so the apartment sat empty. Tsunade wouldn't stay there that evening since Raido didn't think the apartment provided enough protection in case Danzo tried to get to her.
There had been no word from the battlefield. Kaminari's storm had lasted for a few hours then disappeared. Late in the afternoon there had been another great rumble and a fantastic light show then was gone as quickly as it appeared. Tsunade was left to wait and wonder.
"It's so easy to feel him here." Tsunade said as she poured water over a cup of ramen. "Both of them actually. Hinata has definitely made her presence felt." She sat at the small table and began to eat. Tonton rested beneath the table. "I really thought they'd be home by now." Tonton oinked in sympathy while Tsunade ate the cup of noodles.
"That synching they're able to do…I know Naruto was able to respond to them so for the most part his mind is fine. I trust them. I know Iruka and Jiraiya will do whatever is necessary to bring him back but still…the waiting is hell." Tsunade sighed.
She ate the meal for Naruto's sake just like she washed her dishes, put fresh sheets on the bed, tidied the bathroom and made sure the curtains were closed. Tsunade would have done the laundry too but Hinata had taken care of that already. Doing these chores, things that she could have assigned to someone else let her feel as if she were truly doing something for her child. As a teenager who'd lived by himself for the majority of his life, Naruto was very independent and really didn't need his mother to do these tasks for him. "He may not need me for this but it certainly makes me feel better." Tsunade stood with her hands on her hips as she surveyed the apartment. It was clean and tidy and there was no other reason for her to be there.
When she exited the apartment, Tsunade held one of Naruto's black jackets. It was full night now and somewhat cooler. Fall was coming and she shivered. Tsunade threw the jacket about her shoulders. There was a trace of Naruto's smell on it. Accompanied by the Anbu guard, she headed for home.
"Lady Hokage! Lady Hokage!" A young voice called out.
Under the circumstances, Tsunade could have kept walking and ignored people in her supposed grief but the voice that called held its own grief. Tsunade stopped and nodded at the guards to allow the boy to approach her. "Hello Konohamaru."
He blinked up at her breathing hard from running and from emotion. "HE'LL BE BACK!" Konohamaru all but yelled then dropped his head embarrassed. "The boss – no my big brother…Naruto's coming back. I won't give up on him! I'll go find him myself if I have to! We won't lose him!" He moved forward as if his very movements would make his words true.
Tsunade's tears made an appearance. She hadn't shed any since that morning after that despicable meeting with the council and Danzo. Konohamaru had recently become a Genin and wanted to show Naruto but his mentor, his big brother had gone missing. Tsunade knelt and pulled the boy into her arms. "No we won't!" She whispered and felt more tears when the young arms hugged her tight. After several long minutes Tsunade pulled back and wiped away her tears. "Thank you Konohamaru, I needed that hug. Naruto's going to be so proud of you." She stroked his face and she smiled when he looked pleased.
Konohamaru shrugged, now embarrassed as he saw people staring at them but then focused on Tsuande because she still looked sad. "Kages need hugs too. My grandpa did." He gave her a smile then got serious. "…There's something about Naruto…something that makes him a target. People want him or want to kill him." There was confusion on his face but his eyes were hard. "I get it that I haven't been told why. Hanabi said…we needed to be Chunin first but I want you to know something." Konohamaru reached out and put his hands on Tsunade's shoulders. "I don't care what is – I need Naruto. You need Naruto. The village needs him. I'll fight for him, no matter what – I'll always fight and protect him." Konohamaru vowed. "In my grandfather's name and for you the Godaime Hokage!" He stood up straight then and bowed before Tsunade.
She was impressed but then Naruto, when he made friends; they were the best of friends and fiercely loyal. Here is my son's legacy. By just being who he is, he changes people. Tsunade stood. "Sarutobi Konohamaru, your vow is accepted and much appreciated. You do your family name proud. I consider you one of my most loyal shinobi and I will call on you when you are needed for will of fire glows brightly within you." Tsunade touched his shoulder silently bidding him to look at her, she smiled. "Naruto's got some competition in you doesn't he?"
Konohamaru felt ten feet tall. He had been acknowledged by the Hokage. He was a mere Genin but Lady Tsunade had taken his vow seriously and had in turn placed her trust in him. The responsibility was great, the honor greater. "No my lady, I'll take over as Hokage after Naruto. Uzumaki Naruto will be the next Hokage, believe it!" He looked around shocked as the Anbu guard applauded him and praised his words.
Tsunade nodded and wiped away another tear. "I do, I do believe it. Thank you Konohamaru." She touched his face one more time. "Time to call it a day, I'm sure you have some training first thing tomorrow. Goodnight my young shinobi."
"Yes my lady. Goodnight." Konohamaru bowed again then ran off feeling slightly better than when he had just fifteen minutes ago.
"He's a fine young man. The Sandaime must be proud." One of the Anbu said looking up at Hokage Rock where now there were five faces watching over the village.
"I know he is. Just as I am." Tsunade replied then headed for home. The fire in Konohamaru filled her. It was always there but now it was aflame. She would bring her son home herself if she had to! I'll give you the morning. If you haven't returned by noon, I'll come to you. I'll take a leaf from your book Naruto and create a shadow clone if I must. Besides, Danzo may very well be planning to leave soon too. We spooked him with having the body of one of his men. I can't spy on him, his Anbu are as good as my own. I do know that he hasn't accessed the tunnels. At least not the one to Ishita. Damn that old mummy! I suppose I have enough on him to have him detained but I'd rather seal him tight in his coffin with the information Jiraiya finds – if he finds any!
Tsunade arrived home and went immediately to her desk to begin writing out instructions for Shizune in case she left for Ishita on the morrow. The next thing she did was pack some medical supplies. Sakura and Hinata were the only two really versed in medical ninjutsu, Sakura more so than Hinata. If there had been very many injuries, the girls would have over-tasked their chakra trying to heal everyone. Belatedly, she realized that she should have sent Katsuyu along.
At last she tired. The meeting, overworking, worrying and tears had finally taken their toll on her. She got ready for bed then with Naruto's jacket in her arms; Tsunade fell into an exhausted sleep.
She made it to the office on time and in less than two hours cleared her desk. Unable to sit still, she visited the hospital to check on Asuma and Ino. Tsunade felt her tension increase at just the thought of Ino. She was willing to believe that Ino's recently unknown sister had affected Ino's emotions but her actions – that was another matter.
Asuma was making a remarkable recovery. For him at least, Ino not being locked away was like miracle drug. He'd been up walking and eating everything in sight trying to fight his cravings for cigarettes. Tsunade had teased him he'd look like Kurenai soon if he didn't stop! As for Kurenai she was doing very well, the baby too. Tsunade wondered if the Kunoichi would give up the life of a ninja after the baby was born. After being on her own for so long and finally getting a family of her own, Tsunade couldn't really blame her. It's something she wanted with Naruto – time to be a family.
Ino's mother was also very happy and fussing over the girl as if she were a two year old. She looked infinitely better than she had just a day ago. Neither mother nor daughter knew of Seiko and it had been decided that Inoichi would tell them once he returned with his other daughter. Tsunade wondered how that would go over especially considering Ino's past actions. She'd blamed Naruto for things going wrong in her life when he'd been innocent and the same could not be said for Seiko though the girl had in some way affected Ino. And there was another sticky point for Tsunade had no way to know what was true or not. She would believe Naruto but Seiko, Ino and Inoichi well only time would tell. Tsunade only spent a few minutes with them. She obviously made the two women nervous which pleased her secretly. This business was far from over.
Noon was fast approaching so she headed for her office to be sure there was nothing pressing waiting for her and to give Shizune her instructions. From there she would go to the skating rink and use the tunnel beneath it.
"My lady!" Shizune was on her feet, her face pink. "You have someone waiting for you in your office. I was just about to send for you." She went to hold the door open for her.
Tsunade frowned. If it was Naruto or even Iruka, someone would have summoned her, if they valued their life. Hiashi while a close friend, wouldn't have rated the secretive yet excited smile on Shizune's face. She paused her heart beating too fast. Thoughts rushed through her mind, good and bad. "Who is it?"
"Please Lady Tsunade, I promise you'll want to see him." Shizune took her friend's cold hand and pulled her forward.
Tsuande held her breath as she entered the office. It appeared empty but then on her desk there came a soft chirrup. "Talon!" A smile broke out on her face and she rushed in the room not hearing the door close behind her. "Talon! You're okay! Talon – where's Naruto? Hinata? Are they okay?" She laughed as she expected the hawk to answer her but stayed still as he flew around her head then landed on top of it pecking her lightly then hopped to her shoulder and leaned heavily against her head. "Ah my little boy." Tsunade whispered as a tear rolled down her face. He was safe and warm and he was Naruto's. Carefully she went to sit at her desk then gently set Talon down before her. He turned around and on his back was a pouch. "Thank you. Are you hungry?" Quickly she opened her desk and found the tin of dried meat she kept for him but when she put it down, he just backed away. "Umm, okay." She thought that curious but urgently opened the pouch and withdrew two scrolls.
Tsunade opened the one that had Naruto's writing on it first.
'Hey Mama, stop worrying! I'm really tired so I'm going to let Dad finish this letter. We're going to need a response from you so just tell the Talon clone and Tal will tell me. Did you know it was a clone? Ha – I bet it fooled you! I love you Mama.'
Naruto
Tsunade had one hand over her heart. "He's fine…thank God. And you're a clone?" She reached out and tapped the hawk's beak as he seemed to be laughing at her. "Just as bad as your father." She muttered but with a laugh then continued to read.
'Hello mother of my child! Hope that made you smile. There's much to tell, more than I can fit on this scroll. Naruto has already gone back to sleep. He woke long enough to help Talon with the clone and to write that small note to you. His mind is fine but he's exhausted. Seiko is with us. She is indeed Ino's twin. Ishita has been destroyed and Orochimaru is dead, Kabuto too. Yes the snake showed up but Naruto and his brothers killed him. We had another guest, Itachi but I don't know what to tell you about that. He was here, talked to the boys and Hinata then he was gone. They won't speak about it – not yet. We did lose a few men – six in all. Gaara lost some people too. It was…it was an intense battle.
Tsunade we need to know how you want to handle our arrival. We have enough weary and wounded that it's necessary to use the tunnel to return but then what? People think Naruto is dead. Do you suddenly want us to appear with him and what about Danzo? Will he flee or possibly attack if Naruto appears and he knows his compound has fallen?
We took time to let everyone rest but by the time you get this, we're half way home. We'll wait inside the rink for whatever you decide. Take care and be careful.'
Iruka
"Orochimaru and Itachi?" Tsunade looked up at Talon who bobbed his head in confirmation. This was one of those moments when she longed to be able to synch! Whatever it was that those four did to talk or see with their minds – Tsunade would have given Konoha to be able to do it right at that moment! "How did Naruto even manage? All three killed him? Ugh! Iruka you told me just enough to annoy me!" She growled then reached for her sake before rereading the letter. "Itachi…but he's Akatsuki! They're trying to capture all the Bijuu right? Then why did he only talk to them? And why didn't Sasuke try to kill him? It's what he's lived for since the massacre! Dammit – I've learned nothing!" She tossed the scroll away from her barely missing Talon. "Sorry little one. Come here." Tsunade just wanted to stroke him. It didn't matter that he was a clone; he was still Talon and that comforted her like nothing else which is probably why Naruto sent him. Sighing she took another drink of sake before her eyes caught sight of the second scroll. "Oh, who is this from? Jiraiya!" Quickly she unfurled the scroll.
'Hey Boobalicious! How are they hanging? DON'T TEAR UP THE SCROLL UNTIL YOU'VE READ IT! Don't fault me for a little humor Tsunade, not after this battle. Orochimaru is finally dead and neither of us got to kill him. The bastard wanted me to kill him but I let Naruto, Sasuke and Takeshi take care of him and they did a hell of a job. We may have the next Sannin on our hands here! We're bringing back only a handful of prisoners, the few who gave up willingly but like Sai they can't speak on Danzo or his activities. You'll be happy to know Ibiki are bringing back the dirt needed to kill the old buzzard – and that's just the stuff that isn't encrypted. There's plenty more that will have to be decoded. We've been fools not to pay more attention to him. He's protected Konoha truly but in such a way that war could have broken out with every mission he sent his people on. I think it best you lure him into some type of trap or he may very well get away from us. We're unsure of the number of shinobi he controls inside of Konoha. If Danzo even suspects we're on to him it could end up just like things did here in Ishita – Konoha against Konoha.
Tsunade…something's up with the kid. When they brought him out he was…depressed or something. While he was happy to be saved and to see Hinata and his brothers and Iruka again, it was like he'd lost something too. Maybe I'm not explaining things well but I thought you should be warned. Iruka knows but he's waiting until Naruto's home before trying to find out what happened to him.
Okay, that's it for now – loads more to tell you when we get home. Seriously don't take it for granted that Danzo won't try something inside of Konoha because the man just can't be trusted, he never should have been! BE CAREFUL! I want those curves just as luscious as I left them! As a reward for bringing the kid home and surviving the battle…can I kiss them?'
Jiraiya
"He is seriously a pervert." Tsunade said as if she just realized it. "Boobalicious and kisses!" She just shook her head then focused on the rest of the letter. Jiraiya was returning with the nails to seal Danzo's coffin. It was good news, more than she'd dared to hope for but her old teammate was right, things just might get dangerously out of hand before everything was said and done. And then there was her son. "What happened to you baby? Was it Danzo or Seiko who hurt you?" Tsunade's gaze went to one of the many photos she now had of Naruto. "Every time you go away and come home, you change. Your soul grows older, you've been given too much to bear and yet there's still more to come! Naruto…" Tsunade put her head down and wept for him and for herself because there was so little she could do to take away his pain.
Talon moved to rub his small head against her ear after a little while. He was offering comfort but also reminding her that Naruto was on his way home and would be arriving soon. There were decisions to be made. She sat up.
"You're coming home!" Love flooded her heart. Tsunade kissed her fingers then touched them to his smiling face inside the picture frame. "I'll make it safe for you baby, I promise! Okay Talon, help Grandma think and don't you dare tell him I just said that!" She pointed at the hawk and he ducked his head then peeped up at her. Tsunade knew he'd tell because he was too much like Naruto. "Its lucky I love you Featherhead!" She wagged a finger at him.
Itachi had thought he couldn't be surprised anymore, not after everything that had happened since he'd heard those engines rumble beneath his feet. He'd been wrong. He hadn't been able to leave Danzo's compound without making contact with Sasuke, not just Sasuke but the two his brother had claimed as kin. Sasuke had even gone so far as to mix his blood with theirs. That moment had been for them but it had been witnessed by many. He couldn't help but be happy that Sasuke had family again but still it made his already lonely life, lonelier. Itachi had to talk to Sasuke. It hadn't only been about seeing him again face to face but about giving them a warning as well.
Itachi smiled as he tracked blood through the forest. Had any of them been capable of movement his life could have been forfeit right then and there! Sasuke had surely wanted him dead but not necessarily for the deaths of their clan but so that he wouldn't take away Naruto. "Such loyalty and love inside you little brother. You tried to give that to me didn't you? Sorry I couldn't accept it. If you don't believe anything else, know that I am sorry – for all of it." Itachi grew silent as he approached his prey.
He had believed like everyone else that Orochimaru was dead. What person could survive an attack consisting of three chakra powered attacks? It was inconceivable but then Orochimaru had learned much in his years of experimenting. But two things convinced him of the truth that Orochimaru still lived. One being that Kabuto's dead body suddenly began to move. It's not as if he got up and started to run but more that Kabuto crawled along the ground and slowly found his way out of Ishita. The other was that Sasuke's curse mark still existed dark against his pale skin ready to be activated whenever Orochimaru wished. Itachi hadn't been able to follow immediately; first he'd had a little reunion with his brother. Once that conversation was over he left Sasuke behind yet again. Itachi set off to finish what his brother had started and kill the traitor Sannin.
Kabuto's body had stopped moving and lay face down in the fragrant earth. Blood still spilled from his various wounds. His chakra was working at healing his body and it was helped by his master's chakra. Had they gotten away unnoticed, they probably would have lived but even barely conscious as they were, they knew who it was who had found them. Unconscionable rage and despair took them. They'd already gone through this once and thought this life was over. Was it going to happen again?
Orochimaru had reduced his existence to one tiny white snake. He was no bigger than a baby just hatched from an egg. He'd burrowed through the earth as his human body became ash and then headed for Kabuto. That had been his goal from the moment Jiraiya refused him. If he knew his servant, Kabuto would have used whatever chakra he possessed to keep his heart from stopping completely. He'd been right. Orochimaru had slipped inside the wound in Kabuto's shoulder. At first he'd been doubtful of this plan but Kabuto still maintained his senses and together they were able to heal his wounded body enough for them to slip away while everyone was focused on those brats.
Admittedly they hadn't got far but as long as no one noticed they were missing, they would have their chance but Itachi was suddenly there. A soft hiss left Kabuto's wounded body as one eye stared up at the Uchiha.
"My brother killed you. We all saw you die and yet here you are, what – merging with your half dead lackey?" On soft feet, Itachi got closer and nudged the body with his toe. "Can't move any further?" He smiled. Already, Kabuto's face was changing from Orochimaru's presence within him. There were scales along the jaw and his eye was darker, more snake like.
"…I…wi – ll…sssur –viivee…" The men spoke but it was barely even a whisper.
Itachi had crouched down no longer wary of Orochimaru/Kabuto. "No I think not. First you then Danzo followed by myself and finally the Akatsuki. All threats to Konoha will soon be taken care of. I do wish Sasuke, Naruto and Takeshi had the glory of completely finishing you off. Maybe they'll forgive me for taking this from them but I just can't allow you to live. Sasuke and his…brothers chose fire to erase you from this earth and so I will follow their will." Itachi concentrated and stood, his eyes changing to the Mangekyo Sharingan.
"…Sssst – op!" Orochimaru/Kabuto commanded was ignored.
"Goodbye for real this time Orochimaru and you the unfortunate Kabuto." Itachi jumped back several feet as his eye called forth the black flame. He witnessed the opened mouth of the combined men but they hadn't the energy to scream at the indescribable pain he brought to them. Itachi watched to be sure the body was consumed and even sent the flame six feet deep and ten feet wide across the forest floor. This time Orochimaru would not escape.
He is gone now. Nothing escapes the Amaterasu…and there – your mark is gone. You're free now Sasuke. You're free to be with your new family and never fear Orochimaru will take you from them. Take care of each other and remember what I said – the only way to defeat me is to become stronger – all of you. I'll gladly take you all on! Clean house in Konoha then when you are ready, seek me out. I am but a pebble before you; there are cliffs yet beyond me. Prepare for them. …Its time I go. Know that I…wish you well, all of you. Please give Sasuke what I denied him. Goodbye little brother.
Itachi's eyes returned to normal and he inhaled deeply. The grooves under his eyes were wet and he lifted a hand to wipe away the moisture. He blinked when he saw tears. Turning from the bare, blackened earth, Itachi hopped from tree to tree. There was still time before he was to reconnect with Kisame.
"I'm tired. I think I'll find a hotel somewhere and sleep." And think! He didn't believe they would try to follow him. Besides Kakashi, there were few who could stand up to him or any who had enough chakra to even try. In any case, Itachi didn't hang around. He'd spent enough time with Konoha shinobi and his brother today – more than he'd expected or ever thought would happen. For a while it had felt good to actually fight by their side again. He was looking forward to seeing them again – Sasuke and his brothers even though it would mean his death, it was an image he wanted to take with him to the other world – the three of them happy.
Danzo wanted to pace and cursed silently because he could not. Nothing had gone as planned. Iruka was still a sensei at the academy though suspended for a time and absolutely nothing had been done about Jiraiya! Then there were Shizune's words which he'd forgotten but the looks and whispers as he'd walked home confirmed that she had been overheard. People now were saying that he was jealous of the men in Tsunade's life and was trying to cause trouble for the Hokage! And to top it all off – they'd done an autopsy on the body of one of his lost men! Though they knew it not – that seal could be traced directly back to him!
The knuckles on his hand cracked as he clenched his fist. He sat in his office looking out over the village. Rage nearly consumed him as he saw an Anbu sitting in the tree not twenty feet from his window. And that wasn't the only one. He could count eight from just where he sat and while they didn't focus their attention on him or his home – they were there!
"What is she doing? Does she really believe we will be attacked simply because Naruto is not here?" Stiffly Danzo rose, he couldn't stand to watch and be watched at the same time. He moved deeper into Root passing several rooms.
A class was being taught about the battle at the Valley of the End. Danzo thought Madara should have won but if that had happened; he'd now be fighting a fiercer foe than the weak Tsunade for leadership of Konoha. "An army of Uchihas – that would be a sight to fear. But I have something even better than an army – a demon!"
He opened the door to another room and found one of his lieutenants going over a schedule. They planned out their missions weeks in advance. No doubt he was choosing who would go where and how many were needed to accomplish the goal.
"Has there been no word from Sai?" Danzo could tap the boy for inside information. Surely he had gained their trust enough to find out what the Hokage was thinking.
"Nothing Danzo-sama. He has not been seen since the other day at the skating rink. He exited the business but then like the rest of those Chunin, he has stayed out of sight. We checked his home but he was not there. Possibly he is with one of his team. He may not be able to get away from them." The man said from behind his beaver mask.
His good eye squinted. "That may be so but Sai is able to communicate without abandoning his post." Danzo walked over to a bookshelf looking at the many binders detailing his 'children's' lives should someone become overly curious. "Locate him then bring him in. Arrange a training session for him and see that he has…an accident." He looked over his shoulder to be sure the man knew that Sai wasn't to survive that accident. Danzo turned around and made to leave the room but stopped. "I've dallied here long enough. Prepare the railcar, its time I returned to Ishita and checked on the former Uzumaki Naruto." There was a new excitement within his broken body. He had assigned Seiko the job of changing Naruto but even if she failed, there were other ways to tame the beast inside the boy and Danzo half hoped Seiko did fail just for the chance to tame the Nine-Tailed Fox himself!
Danzo retired to his private rooms to rest for the trip. They would be leaving at dusk. He'd eaten a late lunch, read over the reports of recent missions. Some of his people were highly efficient which pleased him but there were still some of the younger ones making careless mistakes. He was making out new training schedules/punishments for those not living up to his standards when there was a knock on his door.
"What is it?" Danzo asked his voice curt.
The door did not open but a voice on the other side spoke loudly. "Danzo-sama, Lady Tsunade has sent you a sealed scroll. It was delivered by the Jonin Raido. He is waiting outside on your response."
Danzo froze. What is this? Does she…know? Does she suspect something? Whatever this was about, Danzo knew he could not afford to ignore it. "Let me see it." He said in his normal tone and watched one of the younger shinobi come in and place the sealed scroll on the desk before. "Wait in the hall." Danzo did not touch the scroll until he was alone. Using a letter opener, he broke the seal and proceeded to read Princess Tsunade's missive. When he was done, he sat quietly for several minutes. It had nothing to do with him but it was very curious. "Come!" The young woman opened the door and stood just inside the frame. "Inform Raido that I will be there then visit Koharu and Homura-sama and tell them I wish to see them this evening. Go." One more day should not matter. I'll see what this business is about then go to Naruto. Perhaps this will aid me. A cruel smile showed on Danzo's face.
Tsunade once again left the hospital with her guards about her. It was almost eight in the evening. She stopped by Ichiraku's and picked up some ramen then with the food in tow, went to her son's place of business. It had been closed since the announcement of his death. Except for the gathering the other night, it had remained shut tight but not out of grief. Inside the rink were four shinobi who were keeping an eye on the tunnel to Ishita as well as watching out for Danzo or his men.
Hopefully I've prevented him from going anywhere. It would be a huge mess if he decided to leave at the same time Naruto arrives home. I can't wait to see them! I wish the Talon clone had been able to stay, having him around made me worry less. Tsunade walked the rink. She was barefoot not wanting to mar the smooth surface with her shoes. Naruto's friends had done a wonderful job building this place and she'd already written them asking them to come to the wedding as well as make some improvements on the skating rink especially since they'd demolished Naruto's office to access the tunnel. "Come on, where are you?" Tsunade whispered and wished Hiashi was there but she didn't want people talking about them anymore than they already were. He was aware of the plan but would have to wait a little longer to see them.
"Lady Tsunade!" Kotetsu's voice was urgent but low. "They're here!"
She ran towards the office still on bare feet, her heart threatening to burst through her ribs. "Naruto…" Tsunade stood with one hand over her breast just inside the doorway.
"We're coming up!" Takeshi yelled. He along with Gaara was one of the few people still moving without fatigue. "Ready Naruto?" His brother's arm was over his shoulder and he held Naruto around the waist.
Naruto blinked several times, emotions fluctuating inside him. With each mile they'd traveled, he'd withdrawn from them. He knew it bothered them; not sharing what he was feeling but Naruto just couldn't help it. He was home but was it really home anymore with everything he now knew? "Let's go. You first Tal." He said to the hawk who had stayed with him the entire journey. The hawk took off out of the darkness and into the soft light.
Tsunade smiled to see Talon soar out and then her son held up by Takeshi. There was a small section of floor left and the two landed softly before her. "Naruto, welcome home." Tsunade held out her arms.
"Mama." He walked slowly forward. "Mama…" Naruto stumbled and went to his knees before her. If nothing else, she was home.
"Naruto!" Tsunade clutched his face in her hands. She kissed his forehead then each tearing blue eye before holding his face against her breast. Tears wet her shirt as she rubbed his head and shoulders.
Takeshi watched for a moment. Things had been…out of sorts from the moment of Itachi's arrival. No even before that but more so after Sasuke's brother showed up. Naruto had tried but his smile just wouldn't seem to stay on his face. I thought maybe if we synched and talked that way but even synched, part of Naruto's mind is closed to us. He doesn't want to share what he went through, what happened to make him so sad. And just because we're home, doesn't mean a damn thing because now we have to deal with Danzo. Nothing can be settled or resolved until then. Takeshi sighed and moved back to the hole. "Not much room up here guys so two at a time okay?" Looking down, all Takeshi was able to see was several pairs of eyes.
Tsunade heard him and knew they had to move. "Come on baby; let me take a look at you. Help me with him." She asked of Kotetsu.
Naruto let them help him into the rink proper. My business given to me by my friends and parents. I was so happy the day we opened and I'm still proud of it but – dammit everything about Konoha is now tainted by the truth, my unfortunate, ugly truth. Suddenly there was a flash and Naruto started a kunai instantly in his hand. "Oh sorry Katsuyu." He blinked. So lost had he been in thought, he hadn't seen his mother summon the slug nor how many people were now inside the rink.
"IT'S ALRIGHT NARUTO. IT'S GOOD TO SEE YOU AGAIN. PLEASE LIE STILL FOR ME." The snail was half her normal size as she snuggled up to his back as he sat cross-legged before his mother. Together they worked to restore his energy and heal any lingering wounds.
Hinata stood with Sasuke, Takeshi and Sakura. It was hard watching this. It reminded them way too much of how Naruto had been after his suicide attempt. She took a deep breath and started to go to him.
"Hinata, help me please." Iruka asked. His leg was patched up but not fully, just enough to keep him from losing all mobility. No one had said much to Naruto or to each other as they traveled back to Konoha but now Iruka wanted to remind Naruto how much he was loved no matter what had happened to him in Ishita. "Jiraiya, you come too." He noticed the older man fussing with his pipe looking sort of left out.
"Mama Tsunade, I've got another patient for you." Hinata made her voice light. She and Jiraiya helped Iruka sit next to Naruto then she gladly took the hug her future mother gave her. Hinata laid her head on Tsunade's shoulder for a moment.
"Feeling better son?" Iruka said reaching around Naruto and pulling his son's head to rest on his shoulder. Naruto willingly lay against him then whistled softly. Talon circled then landed on Naruto's thigh. The family was together.
"Yeah, almost a hundred percent. Still sleepy though." Naruto managed a smile and knew he'd have to do better at least until things were settled with Danzo. "Hey Mama – Takeshi cried for a lot of people so you don't have too many left to heal." There was a real grin this time.
Tsunade blinked at Naruto happy but confused then turned to see Takeshi's embarrassed face then laughed. "Phoenix tears! Wonderful, maybe we should have you work at the hospital!"
"Wouldn't work. Unless it's a dire emergency, having a man cry over you – well, that's just plain awkward!" Iruka grumbled but his eyes were laughing. "See I waited for you – my woman, the extremely lovely female that I share a child with to heal me." His chocolate eyes spoke of secrets between them and Tsunade returned his gaze with the same meaning in them. "Hey!" Iruka glared over at Jiraiya who sat on the other side of Naruto since the man had just smacked him in the back of the head. The grumpy Sannin had spoiled his flirting.
"Your woman? Share Naruto? – he's not from your loins! Watch it boy!" Jiraiya was also going to put forth some effort to make things as normal as possible too but just in case Iruka was serious, he had to put him in his place. "Hey Tsunade, how are you? You look beautiful." His voice dropped to a sexy whisper.
Tsunade blinked again. Okay that's new. He's not being his normal brash self! But there go his eyes! She watched her old friend look down at her boobs. "How is it you even remember my name when all you can do is look at my chest? Do you think that's going to win you any points or that stupid name you wrote in your letter!" She leaned forward and kissed Naruto's forehead then concentrated on Iruka's leg.
"Boobalicious?" Laughter filled the rink. "But it's you! And the reason I know your name is because I learned it before you got boobs." He explained reasonably to more laughter.
Naruto's head went from one to the other and now he looked bemused. "Sweetheart? Are they flirting – Dad and Pervy Sage with my mama?" Yeah he wanted all three of them to have someone special in their lives but this flirting in front of him was kinda too icky for words.
Hinata laughed softly. She was sure this normalcy wouldn't last but she'd take it for however long it lasted. "You don't know the half of it Naruto! Father and Master Jiraiya are -!" A hand pushed her over onto her butt and Hinata's mouth dropped open. "Mama! I can't believe you hit me!" Then she giggled as Tsunade acted like nothing had happened. She just continued healing Iruka's leg.
It was small, his chuckle but seeing his mother blushing and Hinata giggling finally brought forth a laugh from Naruto. He laughed leaning back against Katsuyu then reached over to Jiraiya and grabbed his red vest. "Boob-alicious!" He howled. Naruto turned to Iruka, eyes wide. "You too? Mama's got you hooked too?" He shook as he laughed.
They all stopped to watch him. He'd been missed and yes his crazy, happy laugh had been missed and they smiled but then he started to cry. Naruto laughed as he cried before finally turning his head into Iruka's chest.
"Jiraiya, help me up." Tsunade said all earlier happiness gone. "Hinata…" She didn't have to say a word as Hinata took Katsuyu's place and held Naruto from behind. Tsunade leaned on Jiraiya for support. She turned to look at her shinobi and finally noticed the Suna ninjas. "Forgive me for being preoccupied. Thank you Kazekage, Gaara of the Desert for your help. I'm sorry for those you lost." Tsuande bowed her head.
"The loss was few." Gaara said quietly. "We're fine Lady Tsunade, please…be with your family." He raised a hand towards Naruto. Even he was bothered by Naruto's silence. Yes for most of the time following the battle and part of the way back he'd been sleeping but when he was awake, Gaara recognized something in Naruto's eyes that reminded him too much of his own past.
She smiled at him. "I will be but first I should explain a few things. We need to stay here a few more hours so make yourselves as comfortable as possible. There is food and blankets if you wish to rest. About midnight we'll disperse, our movements concealed by genjutsu. Gaara, I can put you and your people up in my home if that's alright?" He nodded. "Good, good." Tsunade looked at them all, most wore masks and those that didn't were often watching Naruto as much as herself. "Thank you. I'm proud of you all. You're my shinobi but you too are my family. Thank you." This time she did a proper bow before the gathered men and women.
"Our pleasure Lady Tsunade." Ibiki spoke for all the Konoha ninjas. "Okay, you heard the Hokage – rest! Soon you'll be in your own homes and beds knowing you completed an S-ranked mission." He smiled as he moved between them. "Then in the morning you'll write up your reports!" Several groaned.
"Lady Tsunade, could you look at Sasuke and Anko?" Sakura asked. She'd cried when the mark had burned itself away from Sasuke's skin, she'd been so happy but Orochimaru's experiments could have lifelong effects and for her own piece of mind, she had to know that he was fine.
"Sasuke are you hurt?" Tsunade went to him and took his face. He looked tired but unhurt. She rubbed the wrinkles from his forehead; he was worried about Naruto, that was clear.
"No I'm fine; Sakura, Hinata and Takeshi took care of me. But…" Sasuke had to admit; even he wanted reassurance that he was going to be okay. He turned head and showed her his neck. "Is it and what it did to me really gone?" Sasuke asked softly.
"Oh!" Tsunade blinked then smiled before closing her eyes and concentrating her hand over his neck. "I…think so. We should do some blood tests later but Sasuke; yes I think you're going to be fine!" She kissed his neck much to his embarrassment then gave him a quick hug before checking on Anko.
"Told you so." Naruto said. He'd stood up when Sakura had asked for his mother's help. "We owe him that at least." He walked until he stood before Sasuke. "You know it's true whether you want to admit it or not." Blue eyes stared into black. "Some truths can't be denied, no matter the pain it causes." Naruto reached out to touch Sasuke's shoulder. "Something else we have in common brother." He squeezed Sasuke's shoulder for a moment then left him.
"Sai, come on man. Mama he dosed himself with my powder after he'd already been wounded. I'm worried about his eyesight. Takeshi can heal wounds but still…" He helped Sai up from where he sat with his team.
Tsunade had looked to Jiraiya for answers to the cryptic conversation between Sasuke and Naruto but he only shook his head. She walked to join her son then noticed Inoichi and the girl beside him, she paused.
"Mama you can talk to Seiko later, Sai first." He went to her and pulled her along. "You shouldn't stare. Just because she looks like Ino, she isn't. That is Yamanaka Seiko and she's starting fresh here in Konoha with her family. Right Seiko?" Naruto smiled over at her.
"Yes! Yes ma'am – Hokage! I'd like to…live here with…my…family." Her voice had been loud to start but dwindled down to a whisper as Seiko stepped closer to Inoichi.
The girl was Ino's twin or they were each other's twin but this girl despite her nervousness had an air about her and Tsunade recognized it for her son, Sasuke, Takeshi and Gaara all shared it. Seiko knew too much about life because she'd learned it the hard way. Tsunade looked at Inoichi who'd put his arm around the girl. They'd known each other a day maybe but he loved his child no matter what she'd been made to do by Danzo. "We'll talk later Inoichi. Since your family still doesn't know, perhaps you'll want to tell them first before introducing Seiko. She could stay with either Choza or Shikaku." Tsunade finally turned to Sai.
"She can stay with us Inoichi." Naruto said drawing everyone's attention. "Seiko and I know each other, she's comfortable with me. You can stay at Mama's with us until you can go home with Inoichi. Deal?" He smiled tilting his head at her.
"You're a fool Naruto. I tried to destroy you!" Seiko was crying and dashed them away angrily. People were staring at them and she was showing emotion. Her body was tensed as it waited for the hit she would normally get for showing emotion.
Naruto laughed again but without the tears. "So? Some of my best friends have tried to kill me – even my brother the jerk!" He turned to look at Sasuke. "Of course he failed miserably. Too weak." He said in a stage whisper.
Sasuke stalked across the floor to capture Naruto in a headlock. "My little brother is an idiot but what he said is true – those who try to kill him usually end up being his best friends. Isn't that true, Neji? Gaara? We like having him around I guess." He felt Naruto's arm come around his waist and he waited for Naruto to flip him but Naruto just held on.
"That is true. Konoha isn't Konoha without Naruto." Neji said then nodded when Naruto's eyes found his in question.
Gaara moved forward until he was standing next to the brothers. "…He changes people. Naruto…I've never known anyone like him and I'm glad to know him. Naruto." Gaara looked up at him as Sasuke let him go. "You'll survive as you always do and we – your friends and family will help you." Gaara held out his hand.
Naruto stared at Gaara and the outstretched hand. He began to shake as sand curled around his hand and moved it to Gaara's. Naruto clasped his hand. "Thank you." He choked out blinking. "Mama? Do I smell ramen?"
~mg~
The rink was put to use by the returning shinobi. They were making an oral report to the Hokage. Kakashi, Anko, Guy, Yamato, Shikamaru, Gaara, Temari, Kankuro, Ibiki, Genma, Takeshi, Sakura, Sasuke, Jiraiya, Iruka, Hinata, Tsunade and Naruto plus various others all sat on the floor. Naruto ate as the others talked. Each had something to add, a different perspective of the same battle.
Iruka took her hand as Tsunade stared at the floor. "So much horror – fighting the dead. He didn't just kill enemy ninjas but used them in this way and combined them with children? Sacrifices to make the jutsu work?" Her voice didn't get loud but the horror in her voice was well defined.
"It was much like what Orochimaru used against the Sandaime. He brought back the Shodai and Nidaime to make use of their ninjutsu. As much as I hate to say it, I believe Orochimaru's technique was more refined than Danzo's." Kakashi said stretching. He couldn't wait to sleep in his own bed.
"Yeah, he had a whole team of ninjas controlling them or rather keeping them moving. They didn't have much control over the dead." Shikamaru added. "If not for Gaara, things could have gotten much worse. Frankly, I hope we've seen the last of that particular jutsu." He nodded to Gaara acknowledging his part in the mission.
Tsunade also nodded to Gaara then looked at Jiraiya. "Then Orochimaru shows up?"
And so the tale went on describing the separate battles with the Oto Four, Kabuto and Orochimaru. Tsunade blinked often, shocked by what she heard and amazed that her people had handled themselves so well during the crisis.
"I can't say we were the best of friends but at one time were a team." Tsuande said quietly looking at Jiraiya again. "That's something I'll never forget but I can't forgive all the things Orochimaru has done in his quest for power and immortality. So the three of you combined your fire jutsus to kill him? Good job, I wish I had seen it." Tsunade smiled at them as they sat near to each other.
"But we didn't, kill him that is." Naruto finally spoke shocking them with this revelation. "We killed – most of him. Itachi finished him off. Sasuke's curse mark didn't disappear after we killed him and none of us noticed because we were so tired but Itachi did. Hell we didn't even notice Kabuto leave the battlefield! Hinata had killed him too. The bastard. I'll say this for him, his healing skills were amazing." Naruto picked up his third bowl and drained it. He'd said all he intended to on the matter.
"Indeed but without Orochimaru, I think Kabuto still would have died in the end, right where he'd fallen." Takeshi said with his sword in his lap one finger tracing the phoenix design on the sheath. "He or they didn't get very far, both were too injured and Itachi found them quickly. He finished them off, did what we did and used fire – black fire. That's when Sasuke and Anko's marks finally left, burned away. They're free finally." Smiling Takeshi reached over and messed up Sasuke's hair.
It was silent for a moment then Kakashi spoke up. To say he was frustrated would be an understatement. "He? They? Orochimaru's body was beyond toast! Guys please – you're not making sense and you still haven't told us what you talked about or how you even knew how Itachi killed Orochimaru before we found the scorch marks outside of Ishita!" Curiosity filled them all as they looked at the three brothers.
"And we won't, not until we have time to discuss it ourselves." Sasuke looked angry as he replied. It was as if he was daring them to keep asking questions so he would have a reason to cut them off at the knees. "You know what you need to know! Orochimaru and Kabuto are dead!" With jerky movements he tried to fix his hair.
"You see, it's very personal for Sasuke." Hinata said finally. She had been in that talk with Itachi too. "But I think I can say this much. We cannot let Danzo talk his way out of this. His crimes…they're worse than we thought. Itachi wants him dead. He would have killed him himself if he'd been there. I can't say why just yet but I believe him to be in the right and only my and their respect for you Lady Tsunade keeps us from just killing him outright!" Hinata's face showed her anger, contempt and pure lust for Danzo's blood.
Naruto reached out and took her hand from the whip at her waist. "We'll get him sweetheart. We'll do things Mama's way but if he tries anything – we'll kill him ourselves." Naruto faced Sasuke and the two nodded then looked to Takeshi.
"Of course, we are of the same mind. Danzo dies." Takeshi told them and the four held the same expression though none were synched to the other.
The adults all looked at each other and wondered what the hell was going on. None of them were capable of outright murder so either Itachi had used genjutsu on them to convince them to kill or he had imparted some heinous act committed by Danzo to justify them wanting to kill him. That act had to be something above and beyond what had happened to Naruto.
"I don't think the man has a leg to stand on. Ibiki and I brought back some info. We glanced at some of it, the rest will need to be decoded but it's enough Tsunade, enough to have him executed almost immediately with just cause." Jiraiya added hoping that would satisfy Sasuke and the others.
Tsunade took a few of the scrolls and began reading them. Naruto got up and stretched before leaving the group. He walked around looking at people checking on them and saying a quiet thank you to most of them. He went to his office and shook his head and sighed then made a trip to the bathroom where he washed his face then looked at himself in the mirror. "I can live here, can't I? The hate, I don't feel it all the time anymore. Things are different, right?" He asked his reflection before looking away.
Next he went to where the skates were kept. Talon joined him. "Want skate with me Tal? You'll have to hold on tight." He had his own personal skates, black with cobalt and orange stripes and put them on. Walking carefully he went to the rink. There were people here and there but still enough room for him to skate.
Talon squawked a little as Naruto slipped and almost fell. "Give me a break – I've been flat on my back for days!" He grumbled but smiled when Talon clutched his ear with his beak. "I won't let you fall Featherhead." Naruto pushed off with one foot moving smoothly forward. Soon he was steady and sailing around the rink, circling those sitting.
"Naruto!" Hinata in her own lavender skates aimed right at him then laughed with pleasure as he caught her arm and spun them around. They held hands as they slowed to a stop. "Enjoying the ride Talon?" He weaved side to side like he was dizzy making her laugh again. "Not too sure yet hmm? Oh…yes…" Naruto had leaned down to kiss her.
Takeshi and Sasuke had stood to watch. Naruto was skating backwards; Hinata in his arms as they kissed and Talon supervised them. "You okay? That was…intense what he told us."
"Yeah….no, how the hell should I feel?" Sasuke felt a wealth of emotion inside him and he blocked Itachi's words from his conscious thought. Looking at the clock he saw it was nearing eleven. "Naruto's got the right idea; I'm going to get my skates. I'm not ready for this yet Takeshi, I'm just – not." Sasuke stalked off but felt Takeshi behind him. He wasn't angry with his blood brother and his presence actually comforted him since Takeshi was older, calmer and wiser, not mention that Takeshi understood completely.
"Race you!" Takeshi said once they were in the rink. People had moved outside of the rink and were leaning against the railing to watch them. Competitive grins appeared on the boys faces as they raced around. Naruto and Hinata sometimes flew about the rink as well, other times they just held hands and skated.
Anbu placed friendly bets on who would win. Sakura with blushing cheeks pulled Lee who was drunk with happiness onto the rink's floor and skated holding hands. A few others joined in and life was somewhat normal for an hour or so but as midnight approached, skates were put away, trash was thrown out and the rink put back to rights.
Tsunade, Jiraiya, Ibiki and Iruka were grim-faced because they'd spent the time reading Danzo's scrolls. Shikamaru and Temari had worked on a few of the coded ones and they too seemed less than happy with the contents.
"She's walking by now my lady." Izumo informed Lady Tsunade.
"Right. Shikamaru give those to Ibiki, I want you to get some sleep tonight. You can tackle those in the morning if you wish but I insist you get at least eight hours of sleep!" Tsunade informed the young man even as he tried to stifle a yawn.
"He will my lady, I'll see to it." Shikaku told her. "Kiss your woman goodnight son." He slapped his son on back in Temari's direction. Shikamaru growled at his father but did as he was told.
Kurenai walked by outside accompanied by a medical nin, she was being escorted home. Inside various homes and businesses were other ninjas versed in genjutsu. Kurenai was needed to direct them.
The night became overcast and pitch black. Wind whipped around the village, howling when caught between buildings. It seemed a storm threatened. The door to the rink opened and ninjas sprinted away on quick feet staying in the shadows. Most left in two's and three's. A rather large group was heading to the Hokage's residence but they too split up and took different routes to reach their destination. Not even thirty minutes had gone by before all were home and behind closed doors. Kurenai's genjutsu dissipated as she entered her home.
Lord Hiashi had used Kurenai's jutsu to hide his movements as well. He welcomed his children with long tight hugs. Neji felt no shame in holding onto his uncle with all his might. Hinata was lifted high like a small child in her father's arms and kissed repeatedly on her face. She delighted in the love showered upon her and then Naruto was clasped to Hiashi's chest, the lost son was home again.
"It's good to see you son. You were missed." Hiashi said then kissed Naruto's forehead before looking deeply into his eyes. "We'll talk later, hmm?"
"Thank you Father, I missed you too. …Yes, later." Naruto gave him a weak smile then pulled away. He looked around seeing all the people staring. "Umm, Sakura could you show Temari, Kankuro and Gaara's guards to their rooms in the east wing. I'll bring Gaara later. Seiko, you wait for me too." Naruto took Sakura's hug and kiss goodnight knowing she was just as tired as anyone with all the healing she'd done. "Night Sister."
"Hiashi, join us? We'll fill you in on what we discovered then we'll all retire." Tsunade offered and the adults adjourned to another room. Soon it was just Naruto, his brothers, Gaara, Hinata and Seiko.
"Naruto, you wish a word?" Gaara asked.
"If you don't mind." Naruto nodded then looked at his brothers. "Tomorrow." He went to Takeshi and got a half hug then turned to Sasuke. "You need some help sleeping?" Sasuke's mind was probably racing.
"No. Yes, Hinata will give me something thing. Tomorrow idiot." Sasuke said softly cuffing Naruto on the chin. They shook hands for a long moment before Naruto and Gaara stepped outside into the garden.
"Come Seiko; help me fix some tea so that we may all sleep without dreams." Hinata held out a hand to the young woman. She'd sensed something between her and Naruto, nothing romantic at least not on Naruto's part but an understanding. The four of them glanced after Naruto before heading for the kitchen.
~mg~
Gaara said nothing as they stared up at the stars. They sat on the ground amid bushes and sleeping flowers. The scents and smells of dirt, grass, flowers and dew filled their noses and comforted Naruto who had desperately missed nature during his captivity.
"Are you happy now?" Naruto asked suddenly. "Things were horrible for you growing up, much worse than for me. Do you live happily in Suna now? Do your people actually care for you now? No more hate?" Naruto didn't look at Gaara but plucked a blade of grass feeling the moisture on it then brought it to his lips to feel the smoothness of it, to smell it.
"I am getting there." Gaara said watching Naruto. "The people, my people especially the shinobi have all vowed their loyalty to me. Some have even asked my pardon for their previous behavior explaining fear and ignorance. There are still elders who don't trust me and fear me but for the most part, I live a much better life Naruto. I am closer to my sister and brother than I ever thought I would be. To love and be loved, it is a miracle I had given up hope on ever having." Gaara reached over to touch Naruto's shoulder. "What has harmed you Naruto? What threatens your happiness here in your home?"
"I'm simple – I just can't hide my pain can I?" Naruto glanced over at Gaara. "I learned something about my past. The Hokage, the Sandaime who I looked up to, the man I admired, I found out that I wasn't as important to him as I thought. Yes he was one man with a whole village to protect but like Mama said, I was supposed to be his family. Other children, orphans were taken care of. But I was forgotten." Naruto laughed softly. "You'd think a child with a demon in his belly would be hard to forget but he did. And while he did, things happened to me. Things I'd blocked out, I guess to save my sanity! It's done, it's over, it's past and my life too is better than I dreamed but I can't forget – not again. It tears at me Gaara." Naruto stood and paced before his friend. "I want to pack up my family and go – just leave Konoha behind! Hell, I want to turn Kyuubi loose on the village! Destroy it as he originally tried to do!" Naruto gripped a rose bush and tore it out of the ground then ripped it apart. He froze and dropped it appalled the he was ruining his mother's garden and that he'd never felt the thorns tearing at his flesh. Even as he stared the wounds began to heal.
"How do I look at these people and feel safe with them? How can I be happy if the person next to me was one of those who participated in and enjoyed my misery as a child?" Finally he looked down at Gaara.
"You've already done so. You grew up with these people never knowing and found happiness. Your problem now is learning to do it again with this new knowledge. It can be done Naruto, if you want it bad enough." Gaara stood as well and faced Naruto, arms crossed over his chest. "Or you can leave, start over fresh somewhere else. You do make friends of most people you meet." Gaara smiled a full smile. "You could live anywhere, even in Suna. You would be welcome." He moved closer to Naruto. "You'll get through this Naruto for you have strength like no other and I do not mean the Nine-Tails inside you, your heart and will are stronger than the tallest mountain." One finger touched Naruto's chest.
Naruto stared at Gaara for a long time. Then closed his eyes and inhaled. "Thanks, I needed to hear that. And thanks for the invitation, I haven't a clue yet what will happen but it's nice to know I'd be welcome to live in your home Gaara." This time he touched Gaara's shoulder and squeezed. "I'll take you to your room." The two walked side by side. "You've gotten taller; I don't have to look down so far now." Naruto tripped on some sand and the two laughed as they entered the house.
~mg~
"Life must have been horrible for you in Ishita." Hinata said as she and Seiko sat in the kitchen waiting for Naruto. Takeshi and Sasuke had already gone to bed. "I can't imagine how bad. But you have a chance for a new life Seiko. If I know my Naruto, he has promised to help you have that new life and I wish to offer my help as well." Hinata offered a soft smile but then it was gone. "You tried to take him from me. I believe you hurt him as well. I won't ever forget that but Naruto has chosen to let that go and call you friend. It is one of the things I love about him so I will chose to help you because it is his will but I won't ever allow you to hurt him again. Do you understand me Seiko?" Hinata was still as she sat next to the girl who so resembled Ino.
She looked harmless, gentle even but Seiko had seen the woman fight. Hinata would kill for Naruto, Seiko had witnessed that herself. "I understand and…Naruto would kill and die for you. However much you love him, I think he loves, no needs you more." Seiko answered back. She swept back her bangs. "I don't know if I can live here. I don't know that the Hokage will let me live. I'm an assassin. I killed people – have killed many people. But beyond that I don't know if I'm capable of living here." Seiko looked away from Hinata's direct but easy gaze. "You all show your emotions so easily and though thanks to my – twin, I never learned to completely suppress my emotions. It might be too difficult for me to live here – too many expectations that I should be like her, Ino." Seiko shook her head.
Hinata reached out a hand to Seiko. "But you already care for Inoichi. You've acknowledged him as your father and felt his love for you. Yes some will expect a carbon copy of Ino but you're not. I grew up around Ino and it's not just because you grew up in separate places but I can tell you're as different from your sister as your hair color. You'll find your way Seiko and you already have two friends who'll help you do so." She smiled at her.
"Thank you Hinata." It was Naruto who entered the room smiling. "She'll need friends and who better than us?" He took Hinata in his arms as she stood to greet him. "Hey Seiko. I probably should have let you go on to bed but I wanted to make sure you were okay. Things are going to be rough for you, there's no getting around it but you survived Danzo and that's saying a lot. You ready for some sleep?"
Seiko looked at them. She'd seen his memories of them but the real thing was so much more. She was still attracted to Naruto but she wouldn't dream of coming between this couple – here was love. Even she recognized that. "Yes I suppose I better. I'm going to be meeting the rest of my family tomorrow." Seiko shivered and tried not to look nervous. She managed a smile when Naruto took her hand and squeezed it.
Hinata gathered Talon in her arms as he'd begun to doze on the table and the two of them escorted Seiko to a room. Finally they headed to their room here in Tsunade's home. Talon snuggled down on his pillow while they silently undressed. With tender smiles they'd scrubbed each other down and washed away the dirt and blood of the battle. Very shortly they were in the tub soaking in a hot bath. They were silent as Hinata lay back against Naruto's chest, his hands linked with hers over her stomach.
"When will you tell me?" Hinata asked softly. She released his hand to slide hers up and down his thigh cherishing him. She'd missed the simple things like touching his skin.
"Soon, probably not tomorrow since there's so much that's going to happen and we have to deal with the bomb Itachi dropped on us." Naruto sighed kissing her dark head and rubbing his face against the wet silk of her hair.
"…Itachi, yes that was unexpected. Sasuke must be so confused and tortured." Hinata turned around to look at him. Her features were set in a worried frown. "Circumstances just won't let us be happy will they? Not Sasuke – not us! I just want to be married to you Naruto! I want my husband! I want people to know that they can't have you because your mine! Mama Tsunade said we could be married when we got you back but there's all this – crap! It never seems to end… I want us to be happy Naruto not separated and worrying about each other all the damn time!" Hinata began to cry as she tried to shake Naruto. Finally she slipped down in the water emotion taking her over.
Naruto pulled her up to rest on his chest holding her there. "Ah sweetheart…You shouldn't want to marry me, it's like I'm cursed or something and because you love me, it's now your curse too." He stroked her shoulders and shushed her when she would have argued. "I know it's stupid and selfish but I'm glad. I'm not all alone anymore when these god-awful things happen to me. You're already bound to me and you saved me. You avenged me by taking out Kabuto. You don't know how that means to me Hinata." Naruto lifted her chin and kissed her tears. "You want to be married, then let's elope! Let's do it sweetheart! We can go now, wake up a priest and be married before morning! Just you me and Tal." As he thought of it, Naruto began to get excited. They could have this done in a few hours and be together for all time. Nothing would come between them again.
Hinata blinked. Naruto wants to elope! He looked happy about it too. She considered it for several long moments before rising to her knees and cupping his face. "Thank you Naruto. You're my lover and my best friend in the whole entire world Naruto and you make me very happy." Hinata kissed him. "Sorry for – freaking out on you but I want a wedding. I want my father and sister there and to see how gorgeous your brothers are going to look dressed up and Sakura in that beautiful dress you got her and Mama Tsunade cry and my father and Master Jiraiya fight over her! I can wait, I can wait until Danzo is gone from our lives but no longer!" Hinata tapped his chest. "Naruto, can we do all that with whatever's happened to you? Is it really terrible? Can you put it all aside and marry me happily? No doubts? Eek!" She held onto his shoulders for dear life.
Water spilled over the sides of the tub as Naruto surged forward and pushed Hinata down beneath him. Their bodies slid against each other in the hot water as their mouths mated. They kissed under water until neither could breathe. Naruto pulled her up again. He wiped water from his eyes then hers and smoothed back her long hair. "Nothing would make me happier to marry you. I already consider you to be my wife. What's happened – it hurts, I won't deny that but loving you lessens the pain. You make me strong enough to bear it Hinata. I don't have one doubt in the world when it comes to you Hinata – not loving you or wanting to marry you." They were on their knees in the tub holding on to each other.
"Good." Hinata smiled up at him, blinking back happy tears. She ran her hands over his back. "Then I can wait a little longer. Besides I've got to fed you and put you through your paces to get back that hard body of yours! You've gotten soft Naruto!" Her hands roamed over his body, never wanting to stop.
He laughed with delight. "Not all of me! Let me show you." Naruto grunted as Hinata pushed him away then jumped out of the tub. "You're naked sweetheart where are you going to go?" He jumped out to find her waiting for him on the bed, her smile beckoning him. "It's a good thing most of my energy was restored but don't expect me to last long." Naruto said with a smile as he hit the switch turning off the light.
"I'll take it. I'll take everything you have to give me." Hinata said then moaned as he laid her down his leg sliding between hers. "Naruto…"
Talon peeked at them from under his wing then shuffled around to give them a little privacy. His Naruto and his Hinata were back together and happy, what more could a boy ask for?
Tsunade walked to her office with a face etched in stone. She was hiding her happiness. Naruto had come to her room that morning. He lay on the bed with her, close to her side and spoke to her about his wedding. There were other things that needed talking about but for Naruto, this was most important. She wrapped an arm about his shoulder and held him as they talked and made plans. Later they, plus their guests had a huge breakfast and kept the conversations light. During cleanup there was a short discussion on the events planned for that afternoon and finally with a huge hug from her son, Tsunade left for the office.
She gave orders to Shizune and others in preparation. Tsuande cleared as much paperwork as she could then took a meeting with Shiho in cryptology. Not all the scrolls had been decoded but what the girl brought her was plenty. The lunch hour came and Tsunade nibbled at her food, too anxious now to really feel like eating. For the next two hours she mainly went over the information again and again while planning out what she would say and how she would react to various circumstances.
"My lady, its time." Shizune said as she entered the room silently. "Everyone is here and in place." Knowing this event would change things in Konoha forever, Shizune was extremely tense and spoke softly.
Tsunade took a breath, fixed her hair and brushed her hands down her clothes. "Okay, let's do this. Time to air out Konoha's dirty laundry." She picked up several files then with Shizune, Raido, Ibiki and Yamato as her guards, Tsunade left her office ready for battle.
The conference room was full of shinobi. The majority were Jonin and Anbu with a select few Chunin in the mix as well as the other Sannin and the clan lord of the Hyugas. At the front of the room was a table and chairs for the Hokage and the two council members with a third chair off to the side for Danzo. All but that damaged man were on their feet as Lady Tsunade entered the room.
Tsunade took her place before them all. She noted that two Anbu now guarded the closed doors. Her guard lined up behind her against the wall. "Thank you all for coming to this impromptu meeting. I assure you that what I have to tell you is very important. Please be seated." The men and women sat on the floor before her. Jiraiya and Lord Hiashi remained standing next to the only window in the room. Once her people were sitting, Tsunade sat herself.
She felt Homura and Koharu's eyes on her. They'd tried to talk to her last night but she'd refused to see or talk to them. This meeting was as much about them as it was Danzo. Hopefully they too would fall here.
"There is news, good news for Konoha – Orochimaru and Kabuto, two S-ranked missing nin are dead." Tsunade watched as there was cheering from those few who did not already know and shock from the council members. All Danzo did was look down at the floor.
"This is confirmed Lady Tsunade? Are you sure? Who got him?" Homura leaned towards her.
"Yes tell us Lady Tsunade. We need to be sure he is no longer a threat." Koharu looked to her longtime teammate. This wasn't at all what they expected and she wondered if the news was too good to be true.
"We killed him – Konoha finally was able to rid ourselves of a traitor, traitors. Anko, please stand." Tsunade asked of the special Jonin.
She sat at Kakashi's side but rose gracefully then swaggered forward as only she could. "As you can see, the curse mark is gone." Anko moved to each council member exposing her neck then at Tsunade's direction, showed her neck to Danzo as well before turning to face her fellow shinobi. It was then that she grinned at them. "It's gone!" There was more laughter and applause for her as she punched the air.
Tsunade had to laugh too. "Thank you Anko."
"Does this mean that Sasuke has lost his mark as well?" Danzo asked as the room settled down.
"Indeed he has. I checked him myself. Our one remaining Uchiha is free to live a normal life again. He no longer has to fear being taken over by that mark or Orochimaru always chasing after him. He and the village are safe from Orochimaru forever more." There was more applause from the shinobi.
"But Lady Tsunade, as good as this news is, why call a meeting? It could have been announced village wide. I'm sure the villagers would like to know that they are free of the threat of Orochimaru as well." Koharu commented with a frown.
Now Tsunade dropped her head and she laid a hand on the stack of files before her. "Because with good news, there is often bad." She looked at her shinobi. "It has come to my attention that children of Konoha have been…kidnapped." There was a hush in the room.
"That's impossible. We would know if our children were being kidnapped! No parent would keep such a secret! Explain!" Homura slapped the table.
"Unfortunately, they did not know but I have evidence." Tsunade said again tapping the files. She went on to explain that every prominent clan with a specialized jutsu had at one time either had a stillborn child or that their young women had been subjected to rape. The raped women either chose to give those children up for adoption or those babies were stillborn as well. "I've gone over those records, talked to those women – all were healthy and had normal pregnancies. I tested their blood, male and female and found no abnormalities. There was no reason for those children not to be born healthy! So many stillborn children in a village that wasn't plagued by some kind of virus or sickness is highly unlikely! Many of those mothers were not even shown their dead babies – the bodies were taken away and supposedly disposed of. But…I had a few of them exhumed – there were no babies in those coffins – they were empty!" Tsunade's words hung like lead over the assembled shinobi.
There was no cheering and laughter now. There was horror and anger sweeping the room. A few even stood up and moved forward each staring down at the files before Tsunade. They had experienced such births in their own families. They had had a young daughter raped by a stranger never caught.
"…But this is just speculation Princess Tsunade." Danzo said so that everyone would hear him. "You don't have actual evidence that these children were kidnapped and by whom? Rival villages? Wouldn't they boast that they had obtained our jutsus, our children and used them against us? I just don't think…you've thought this out Princess Tsunade. You're scaring and worrying these people needlessly." He spoke reasonably but his undertone questioned her intelligence.
Koharu and Homura also put in their two cents asking to see the files she had before her and why wouldn't she discuss this with them first and conduct a more conclusive investigation. Those now standing in front of Tsunade were unsure of what to think.
"If you're done?" Tsunade said standing and everyone stopped muttering. "Inoichi stand please." She saw he'd taken a seat at the back near the doors. "Inoichi has one child, a daughter Ino. As you also know, Ino has been locked away from crimes committed against Hyuga Hinata and my – son. Inoichi bring your daughter in." Confusion ruled the room as they tried to guess what Ino had to do with the Hokage's claims.
Inoichi nodded then when the doors were opened, disappeared for two minutes before returning with Ino in a wheelchair. She was thin and weak but clearly Inoichi's daughter. The girl looked scared and in shock. She held tight to her father's hand.
"What most of you don't know is that Inoichi and his wife were expecting twins. One survived and one was stillborn. They were shown a baby, blond like Ino and then that babe was buried but not before Ino's mother took a lock of that child's hair." Her shinobi all began to stand as they looked from Ino to the Hokage. "We've tested that hair against Inoichi and his wife. That child was not theirs. What happened to Ino's twin then?" Tsunade looked from one council member to the other wondering how they could continue to argue with her. Were they somehow involved in this too?
A chair scrapped against the floor as Danzo stood. "Again speculation. I think I'll go now. There is no need to listen to this until you have proof! You're subjecting that sick child to these proceedings – I thought more of you Princess Tsunade." He nodded towards Ino then started to walk away when Kakashi blocked him.
"Please stay Danzo-sama. The Hokage hasn't finished yet." He was polite but insistent. Anko and Genma backed him up.
Danzo's eye narrowed as he saw they would not let him leave. He backed up a step and stood still. "Foolishness!" Danzo looked over at Homura and Koharu silently telling them to do something about Tsunade.
"Tsunade!" Koharu reprimanded.
"Hush old woman! Be quiet and listen!" Tsunade yelled tired of pretenses. She gave a hard smile as Koharu's mouth snapped shut. "Good, now Inoichi escort the rest of your family into the room." Tsunade crossed her arms as everyone whipped around to see Inoichi and his wife enter holding hands with a dark-haired, dark-eyed girl. Her hair was up in a ponytail with long bangs. She wore purple and black and her features were a carbon copy of Ino's. "Meet Yamanaka Seiko who has been missing since birth, thought by her parents to be dead when in truth she had been kidnapped and held captive by none other than - Danzo!" Tsunade pointed dramatically at the bandaged man surround by three Jonin.
The man in question looked like the devil himself as he stared at Seiko then horrified as the realization hit him. If Seiko is here…then Naruto…?