Chapter 21 – Hostile Territory
Beta: Dreetje
Three months passed since the last mission to capture Sasuke, but not much happened. Sasuke got a larger punishment because of what he did and lost his status as a shinobi from the Leaf Village. Sure, those against it, protested for a while, but they couldn't do anything, simply because the last Uchiha escaped not once but twice.
There were even those who tried blaming Naruto for the sake of him being the scapegoat, but by doing so, the lone civilian member of the council would be implying that Kakashi, Asuma and two Anbus elite were lying and that was a heavy offense. Also Karin, the only survivor of the team from Sound was interrogated for important information regarding Orochimaru, before being released from lack of relevant information regarding the treacherous sannin, of course at the condition of never stepping inside Fire Country again.
After that mission, the missions severely reduced in Konoha at least that was Naruto's thought. After the mission to capture Sasuke, Naruto was called in for a couple of low B ranked missions here and there with several different shinobis. However, while it was nice for Naruto to get to know different people and work with them, the blond couldn't help but grow bored from the lack of a good fight once in a while. Sure, Kakashi sometimes volunteered to ease Naruto's urge, but they wouldn't go beyond a certain point, being better described as a advanced spar between two jounin. Anko also stepped in for help, even if it was in a different scenario. Naruto even had good memories of said battle as a single drop of blood fell from his nose. But while his girlfriend helped him in that area, he was left unattended in the shinobi department.
Nevertheless, this time allowed Naruto to better improve his Tsuinken-ryuu style of fighting and he also managed to improve his iron manipulation to a point of adding a new technique to his arsenal. Doton Tetsu no Kasui (Earth Release: Iron Spikes Jutsu) came to him when he saw an Iwa ninja doing the regular version in one of his missions and when he came up with the idea to Aoi, the bastard had the nerve to say that once again he already know the technique. It was irritating for Naruto, simply because the man could simply tell how many techniques there were to learn regarding iron manipulation, so that Naruto shouldn't bother asking him about it in the future.
It got worse when Aoi would just laugh when Naruto expressed said situation. Naruto knew, though, that the man couldn't stop talking about his team of genin who, by the way were coming along nicely under his command and that Aoi was expecting them to attempt the Chuunin exams very soon. Regarding his new technique, though, he could use it on his original doton technique (Doton Supaiku Ouchi – Earth Release: Spiked Pit Jutsu), since now he could create iron spikes instead of the regular ones, making it more deadly.
Lastly, regarding the last two elements (raiton and katon), Naruto was humble enough to admit that it would take a while to learn even the simplest techniques, let alone master these two elements. He was reading every piece of material available in Konoha's library, but so far he just couldn't grasp what needed to be done.
Kakashi did explain that learning an element which happens to be the opposite of the ninja's affinity, was next to impossible, at least without the sharingan, but no matter how annoyed Naruto was because of it, he would kill himself before wishing he had the accursed eye, of course, he didn't mean any offense regarding Kakashi as he tried to explain a couple of times upon seeing the man's dejected face. Naruto remembered Kakashi's story about how he obtained the sharingan and he explained to Kakashi, that Uchiha Obito was the family's exception. The silver haired jounin accepted the answer since Naruto was praising his friend because of the heroic act towards their teammate at the time.
Naruto stopped wondering about things for a while and focused on the opponent in front of him. Uzuki Yuugao came knocking on his door earlier today in order to practice some sword fighting and of course, chat some gossip with Anko. Naruto saw how close the women were, by the level of intimacy being displayed. Anko didn't object to Yuugao's request of renting her boyfriend for a kenjutsu spar, but she just couldn't keep her mouth shut at the time, so she let out the famous joke about them meeting together later for a threesome.
Of course, both Naruto and Yuugao were used to the fact that Anko often used sexual terms in order to make other uncomfortable and she could laugh at their faces. That was why when she finished talking; neither Yuugao nor Naruto changed their facial expressions, showing that Anko's plan was ruined.
"Focus Naruto, or are you thinking about what Anko-chan suggested earlier today, you pervert" - Joked Yuugao, earning a smile from Naruto. The blond thought about using the spell against the sorcerer, but thought against it in the end. He didn't know how Yuugao would feel, even if he was just kidding.
"Nonsense, Yuugao-san. But I can't help but imagine how many people she already spoke to about it; I would imagine some of them having to hide their bloody faces afterwards" - Smiled Naruto, earning a nod from Yuugao.
"Knowing her, I'd bet the entire male population in Konoha. She would use this joke line both with me and with Kurenai-chan in order to get a rise at the men, some were successful, a lot actually and very few of the male population didn't like it, but as Anko said at the time, we couldn't know if they were gays or straight with a good conscience" - Said Yuugao, still in position to strike Naruto any time.
"Huh, I wonder what Kakashi-sensei would say to something like that?" - Asked Naruto, also ready for the attack, but for his surprise, Yuugao said Kakashi was one of the exceptions, however, at the time, the man was all focused on Anbu missions.
Instantly, Yuugao charged Naruto with her ninjato with a quick attack coming from below, before Naruto pairing it with his two swords, before using his foot to deliver a front kick on Yuugao's chest, being, however, unsuccessful since Yuugao evaded and came from the right once again. This time Naruto parried the strike with his nodachi, thus holding Yuugao's ninjato while freeing his katana to get in position for the killing blow.
Being an Anbu, Yuugao positioned her sword as to get loose from Naruto's nodachi and parry Naruto's katana, before doing a back flip followed by some shuriken throwing, surprising the blond for a moment. Gathering his focus once more, Naruto positioned his two swords and analyzed the shurikens approaching. However, Yuugao wouldn't let him as she charged once more with a forward attack.
Focusing chakra on his feet, Naruto jumped high in the air and landing on a tree branch, thus evading both the shurikens and Yuugao's attack.
"I thought you said straight out kenjutsu?" - Asked Naruto, before seeing Yuugao smile deviously at the blond's misfortune.
"Since when do ninja abide by the rules Naruto? You cannot survive out there by playing fair; the enemy will surely use every means possible to win the fight" - Explained Yuugao, before seeing Naruto smile while closing his eyes. He immediately jumped to the ground and began to fight for real by focusing wind chakra to his feet. The woman was referred to as being Konoha's best sword fighter, but the minute she saw Naruto bending his body for the attack; the man vanished and appeared in front of her in less than a second.
She tried paring Naruto's katana, but she wasn't fast enough to position the weapon effectively, thus losing her grip on the ninjato. The weapon was sent flying towards an incoming tree where it stayed lodged. The woman looked at Naruto's nodachi which in turn was positioned mere inches in front of her jugular, leaving her no other alternative then to yield. Naruto, then, returned his swords to the holster and offered a hand for Yuugao to get up to which she accepted.
"Quite impressive that last move, what was it?" - Asked Yuugao as she went to grab her ninjato.
"Fuuton chakra has several uses once the ninja learns to control it. I happen to release it from a certain tenketsu which will provide enough propulsion for me to charge against my enemies or even evade an attack that would surely hit. It's extremely taxing from the chakra control necessary, but the results are worth it." - Explained Naruto as he heard Yuugao taking her sword and placing it back inside the holster.
"I'll be sure to remember that the next time we spar. Now, though, it seems I must present myself at the Anbu, Naruto. I'm looking forward for our next fight" - Said Yuugao, earning a nod from Naruto who in turn placed his sword back on the holsters, before seeing Yuugao vanish via shunshin.
Naruto was about to leave the training ground when he sensed a couple of familiar presences.
"Naruto-sensei, how are you doing?" - Shouted Tonari, as he landed on the ground next to his friend Tonari.
"Tonari, Kaito where have you been all this time?" - Asked Naruto.
"Tsunade-sama assigned us a long-term mission. We were supposed to investigate some disturbances near Marsh Country. In the end, though, it revealed to be a group of low level missing-nins causing some sort of havoc. It was kind of boring, but at least we managed to get some training done. Tonari and I sparred at least twice a day and our skills improved a lot. So, words on the street are that you made Jounin, congratulations Naruto-sensei" - Smiled Kaito as he saw Naruto's darker vest, before looking at the smiling blond.
"Yes, I managed to pass in the exams held not so long ago. Hey, what do you both say we grab some lunch, my treat?" - Asked Naruto, no doubt receiving shouts of appraisal from the two Chuunin. Both Tonari and Kaito enjoyed ramen as well, plus the fact that they didn't have the chance to eat the precious noodles from being on the long-term mission.
Along the way, Tonari was admiring Naruto's newly acquired nodachi and also expressing his desire to have a spar against Naruto in Kenjutsu, to which the blond smiled and liked the idea, saying that if neither one of them had any missions, they could spar at any time, to which Hayate's nephew nodded. Within minutes, they arrived at the ramen stand, before placing their orders.
===At the west gate===
A woman was found approaching Konoha's west gate. Her face was similar to that of Tsunade, but her outfit consisted of a black dress, completed by some fishnet clothes on the shoulder area. Her long red hair was enough to attract a few stares from the two Chuunin that were near the gate, performing guard duties. From looks alone, they couldn't see a headband that showed from where she came from, however her belt showed the Kirigakure (Mist Village) insignia, so they focused on the duty at hand.
"Hello there, I wish to have a conference with the Hokage?" - Asked the lady, while looking at the silent Chuunin in front of her not muttering a single word. One of them, being the older, decided to respond.
"Who might you be and what do you wish to discuss with Lady Tsunade-Sama?" - Asked the Chuunin, however instantly two Anbus appeared in front of the lady with hands close to their ninjato.
"What business do you have in Konoha Kirigakure noAisuotome (ice maiden)" - Said one of the Anbus. The Chuunin, for their part, wondered about the level of care in which the Anbu were treating the newcomer and wondered about her. They didn't find anything special with her, except the fact that she wasn't fazed in the least by the Anbu's presence. Nevertheless, the name was familiar somehow, but they couldn't place it.
"I prefer to be called by my real name Aisu Keiko, now I really need to speak with the Hokage about a matter, don't worry about me attempting anything, Kirigakure is already deep in our own situation without having to deal with Konoha" – Said Keiko, before seeing the Anbu look at each other, before nodding.
"We'll go talk with Lady Tsunade to see if she authorizes your passage, meanwhile my partner will remain here watching you" – Said the Anbu with the monkey face before he vanished within leaves, leaving the woman and the Anbu along with the two Chuunin that happened to be on a mission to secure the gate. It didn't take long until the other Anbu returned with the proper authorization, before issuing Keiko to follow him towards the Hokage's building. While walking, Keiko was receiving looks by everyone. The reasons though varied, of course. The civilian men all looked with drool on their faces and the civilian women looked at her with disdain (hidden jealousy). The shinobi part of the population had their eyes focused on Keiko for the same reason, although some just couldn't stop staring at the woman's beauty. However for those who knew her from the bingo book, they sure knew to keep their distance and worry in case of any sudden involvement with Mizugakure.
In ten minutes, the group arrived in front of the Hokage's building.
===At the Hokage's office===
After the Anbu left with the authorization, Tsunade became apprehensive. Kirigakure was in a bad situation with their civil war and now the one person who's responsible for maintaining a strong hold against the Mizukage's efforts wants to talk to her. What reason could she have with Konoha? Would she try and persuade the leaf to aid in the battle? All these questions appeared in Tsunade's mind and the truth was that she felt a bit cornered.
Whatever this Keiko girl came to discuss, Tsunade had two answers to choose from, either yes or no. That was the issue, since in both ways, Konoha would get involved in the manner. If she said yes, then she would portray Konoha in a wrong way to the other hidden villages and if she said no, then Kirigakure could come back against the Leaf in the future, once the war is over. Of course, she knew that the second answer would be the best choice, because when push comes to shove, Konoha would be doing nothing wrong.
Tsunade stopped thinking once she saw the woman walking inside her office while escorted by two Anbu shinobi. After studying the newcomer, Tsunade could conclude some positive aspects about Keiko. Her posture demanded respect and the way she walked showed no fear whatsoever. Tsunade knew somewhat about her fame in Kiri as one of the leader of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist, so the situation must be dealt with care.
"Greetings Hokage-sama, I appreciate you taking your time to hear me out" - Said Keiko, before seeing the hokage nod.
"You came a long way Keiko-san. I wonder, though, what do you wish to discuss about" - Asked Tsunade, as she eyed Keiko's smile with a certain level of suspicion.
"As you know Hokage-sama, a civil war was declared in Kirigakure close to five years ago after Momochi Zabuza's failed coup against the Mizukage,. Since then, we've been able to hold ourselves against his troops. What you don't know is that my position is vital to our side's survival." - Explained Keiko, earning a nod from Tsunade who absorbed the information for a moment.
"Words out there suggest that the Mizukage's forces are being reduced and that your side was on the offensive. I'd imagine that, being so important to the cause, you would be close to them so as to lead your men, what are you doing in Konoha?" - Asked Tsunade, earning a nod from Keiko as the time for the proposal finally arose.
"The Yondaime Mizukage is no fool and by now he realized I'm not in Kirigakure. He knows that killing one of the seven would cause a major victory for him, hence why I believe I can't simply walk through Kiri's gates like I do here in Konoha. So Hokage-sama, I came here to hire Konoha for an S ranked escort mission, one of your best jounins to escort me safely to Kirigakure" - Requested Keiko, before studying the Hokage's expression for a moment.
Tsunade couldn't help but be surprised at such a humble request, although she knew never to fully trust someone from another village. Never before had a ninja hired services from another hidden village and Tsunade very well knew that should the mission be successful, Kirigakure would be in great debt with Konoha, hence why she tried to understand why Keiko would place her village in this position.
Also, the lady Hokage was a little bit relieved at the request, since she feared that Keiko would request Konoha's assistance in the war and that would create problem to the village. Tsunade didn't have to say anything before Keiko opened her mouth.
"I also came to negotiate a future alliance between Konoha and Kiri, once we overcome the Mizukage" - Said Keiko, dropping the bomb to Tsunade. The Sannin would bite her nails in anger if she was alone after being cornered just like she feared before.
"Please explain better Keiko-san, because by offering an agreement, you'd be subjecting your village into something that may not be to your advantage. Plus the fact that you don't have a kage's authority to propose such a thing" - Said Tsunade, with her eyes facing Keiko's facial expressions, while trying to understand her reasons or even know if the girl would lie about it.
"That may be true Hokage-sama, I don't in fact have the authority to propose a settlement between hidden villages, however ever since the war began, the village I grew up was transformed into a war zone. People are dying as we speak and when the war is over, I'm afraid that we won't have the needed supply for reconstructing the village, hence why the need for this treaty, however my first request still remains. Before we even consider discussing a treaty, the Mizukage must step down" - Said Keiko, earning a nod from Tsunade who agreed with the mission request.
"I'll grant your request Keiko-san, under one condition. By placing one of my best Jounin on this mission, you must agree to tell me every information deemed necessary for the Jounin to know, in case of an ambush and that consist of information about the Mizukage's army of those he sent to kill you once you arrive in Kirigakure" - Said Tsunade, before waiting for Keiko to agree.
Tsunade's conditions may be counted as bit excessive, since Keiko would need to reveal a village's secret and it constitutes act of treason by doing so, however Tsunade hoped the girl understood Konoha's position in order to send a Jounin to a hostile territory. To her surprise, though, Keiko smiled but now in a affectionate way, demonstrating trust to Tsunade.
"I understand your position on this manner Hokage-sama, and the one who will send to aid me wouldn't carry his or her headband, so as to not reveal the village he belongs. I agree to reveal the information your Jounin needs to know" - Said Keiko, earning a nod from Tsunade who agreed with the terms, before hearing the information.
===With Naruto===
After having lunch and talking with Kaito and Tonari, Naruto was left with nothing to do as he was walking casually throughout the village streets. Anko was sent on a mission and wouldn't be home until tomorrow. Aoi's team was also sent on another mission and the Hokage thought best to send Kakashi as well for reinforcement.
So, Naruto was left with nothing to do as he watched the village population conversing with each other without a care in the world. The blond remained walking until he reached the training grounds of the village, filled with ninjas from every rank trying their best to learn new techniques and master the ones they already learned. Amongst them, Naruto recognized a few who performed missions with him and happened to wave their hands in a greeting gesture to which Naruto gladly returned, before walking further down.
Naruto was walking for a while until he saw a familiar team practicing what appeared to be advanced Taijutsu. Gai, Lee, Neji and Tenten divided into groups with Lee fighting Neji and Tenten with Gai. Naruto decided not to interrupt their training so he continued on his way; however he stopped once he heard Lee shouting his name from afar.
Still with his hands on his pocket, Naruto approached the team.
"Greetings everyone, I didn't want to stop your training so I was just passing by" - Said Naruto, but Gai only smiled.
"Nonsense Naruto-kun, someone as youthful as you wouldn't interrupt. It would be interesting, though, to see a display of your abilities. You see, our Tenten here, has been short of a partner for Kenjutsu practice, would you mind stepping in?" - Asked Gai, before seeing Naruto look at the bun haired girl who in turn was smiling.
"I don't mind at all, it also gives me a chance to better improve my sword skills. Weapon of choice, Tenten-san?" - Asked Naruto, before seeing her face frowning in confusion. Instantly, he showed his back and explained that he could either fight with a katana or a nodachi, or even both if she so agreed.
"You can fight with both of them Naruto-san, I happen to focus nowadays on my twin nodachi style" - Smiled Tenten, earning a nod from Naruto as both prepared for the battle by drawing their respective swords from the holsters or in Tenten's case, the big scroll strapped to her waist.
Both were standing in front of each other, while assessing each other's position and body expressions in order to determine any possible actions. Naruto could ascertain that while Tenten wasn't near the level of swordsmanship that Yuugao displayed, she wasn't a pushover. He just feared that just like Yuugao, Tenten would use other attacks in the midst of a Kenjutsu battle, just like before. Meanwhile, the audience was focused on the battle; well at least Neji was with his byakugan looking at Naruto's chakra signature, while Lee and Gai were talking about the reason why no one attacked the other yet.
Neji was studying Naruto's chakra signature in contraction to Tenten's chakra and he found something very interesting about a real Kenjutsu fighter. Tenten's chakra is slightly agitated which is quite normal considering that she will have to use it in this battle, but Naruto's chakra, although Neji could see the extreme amount, was flowing so peacefully, that the Hyuuga couldn't stop wondering which chakra usage would be best for this fight. Gai, on the other hand, looked at Neji's perplexed face and smiled, knowing his student's wonderings.
"Neji, what is on your mind?" – Asked Gai, calling his attention before he turned to face his sensei.
"While Tenten's chakra is agitated as in ready to be used, Naruto's is flowing normally, though. I wonder why? I would imagine that just before a fight, one's chakra would have to be tuned for immediate use when needed" – Said Neji, earning a nod from Gai, as he turned to watch as Naruto and Tenten remained staring at each other.
"That's the way of a true swordsman, Neji. Tenten is proficient at the skills, but she doesn't focus entirely on it, hence why she can't control her chakra the way Naruto does. You said that Tenten's chakra is agitated hence why I believe she'll commit the most dangerous mistake in a sword fight" – Said Gai, before seeing his student's dumbfounded look. "Perhaps, it's best for you to see and draw the conclusions yourselves" – Said Gai as his students turned to see the fight.
Tenten for her part was watching Naruto with nothing akin of understanding it. Her abilities didn't focus much on sword fighting, so she couldn't understand why he didn't attack first or even made any indication of such. The girl was focusing her chakra so much, that waiting to attack was proving to be harmful to her peace of mind and a lone sweat drop fell from her left cheek, landing on one of her swords. The waiting alone was already staggering, but she could very well see that Naruto wasn't suffering at all, in fact if she focused her sight, she could see the blond smiling like nothing was bothering him at all.
Naruto was something of an enigma to everyone, since he decided to change from his usual self a couple of years ago and Tenten was beginning to feel something that she long lost in people from the other gender; respect. Usually, the girl would only respect kunoichi who strived and overcame the obstacles and prejudices that men are stronger than women, but this time, she was actually finding herself admiring Naruto's abilities as a swordfighter. Just by seeing his posture, she already knew the outcome of the fight. However, she wouldn't go down without at least trying.
Focusing chakra in her feet, Tenten charged Naruto with her kodashi ready, but Naruto remained steady only waiting for her to approach within a certain range. Once she was right in front of Naruto preparing her attack, Naruto used his katana to parry both kodashi in the middle, before using his free kodashi inches from Tenten's jugular, making her sweat even more in fear of the possibility of Naruto actually finishing her. She knew that this was practice, but the way Naruto positioned his sword, sent chills to Tenten at the brutal efficiency of the possible kill.
Naruto, however, smiled and placed his swords back at their holsters.
"Good match Tenten-san. That attack of yours was very efficient" – Said Naruto, as Tenten was recovering her breath while looking at the smiling blond.
"How come? You didn't need more than two seconds to beat me" – Retorted Tenten, not sure if Naruto's observation was accurate, but Naruto negated with his head.
"Not all Kenjutsu battles are time demanding, they can end with just one swing of the sword, but that doesn't mean the opponent's skills weren't good. Your stance was from one of high skills and the attack would render anyone useless if you managed to control the flow of your chakra slightly better" – Explained Naruto.
"What do you mean, controlling the flow of my chakra?" – Asked Tenten, highly interested in Naruto's ideas for improvement, a thought that she would laugh at three or four years ago, before Naruto explained.
"In Kenjutsu, the one who attacks first must be able to cover every spot of the body so that the opponent can't strike back and ruin the attack. When you tamper with your chakra before the fight, your muscles become too rigid and tense to be used, hence why you weren't able to attack me effectively. Only when you attack, should you focus on using chakra, not only for more effectiveness but also to store as much as possible to be later used in another situation; you can practice this with Neji, with his byakugan; he can see the flow of your chakra and give you tips on how to control it" – Tutored Naruto, earning a smile and a nod from Tenten in appreciation from the lesson.
Suddenly, Naruto felt a hand on his shoulder and he saw that Gai was giving him thumbs up in appraisal.
"Such youthful explanation Naruto-kun, I expect nothing more from my rival's student" – Shouted Gai, earning a sigh from his students, but Naruto only smiled at the friendly rivalry between Gai and Kakashi-sensei. The blond couldn't help but wonder about the expression 'friendly rivalry' and frown upon remembering that he considered the Uchiha as his rival. Passed waters, Naruto concluded. Sasuke was not the same high skilled shinobi from before and Naruto could even say for sure, that in Konoha they were tons of better skilled ninja who didn't have a huge advantage like the Sharingan. He looked at Neji who, despite having a Doujutsu, didn't grow arrogant and self-centered. The Hyuuga was conversing with Tenten while Lee and Gai were shouting about fire of youth and absurd challenges to one another.
"Hey guys, I have something to do right now, so I must get to it, Tenten-san I appreciate the fight and hope we can have more in the future" – Said Naruto, calling the team's attention before he saw the girl smiling and nodding at him, as well as Gai giving one last thumbs up with the goofy smile on his face. Neji said his goodbye as well and Naruto turned to leave the training grounds. He didn't have an appointment per se, it was just that he found that a visit to an old friend was a must and the time couldn't be more perfect.
===At the Academy===
Umino Iruka looked at the next crop of shinobi wannabes as they left school together with their parents. It was a satisfying job, indeed, he reasoned. Of course, they were times the man missed the missions rush, but when he saw the results of his teaching, his heart was filled with joy and the mission urge disappears without a trace. Iruka, then, turned to head back to class with a smile on his face, since he needed to gather some documents. However when he reached his classroom, he was surprised with a much amusing sight.
There he was sitting in the last chair while looking at the window sent wonderful memories to the Chuunin teacher. Well, the memories were filled with Iruka reprimanding him from making a scene in class, but they were like brothers.
"I remember that you always used to look outside when my class bored you Naruto" – Said Iruka, earning Naruto's attention as he turned to meet his old teacher with a smile on his face.
"Yes, I remember that as well, maybe if I paid more attention to it, besides goofing off, I would have improved my skills earlier. How was I supposed to know, though, that paying attention to your bored explanations would help me?" – Said Naruto, as he looked up in wonder, before hearing a warm laughter coming from Iruka.
"I guess, it all worked out well despite it all. It's good to see you Naruto. At least one of my students comes to visit me every now and then. Care for a walk, I was heading for the Hokage to drop some papers and then we can have some tea and talk?" – Invited Iruka, before seeing Naruto nod and get up from the chair, before joining Iruka for his walk.
"You know, I'd believe that at least another one would be visiting you from time to time. I know Shikamaru enjoyed your classes, even though he spent half of it sleeping" – Said Naruto as the two walked away from the academy, heading towards the Hokage tower.
"Indeed, Shikamaru spoke to me once when he picked up his cousin from the academy and Shino did too, but coming here without need to, only you so far" – Said Iruka as he smiled to Naruto in appraisal. "Sometimes, I wonder if by doing what I do, the students remembers me, but at least I get to see their enthusiastic faces once they manage to graduate and bet set up for a Jounin sensei. Speaking of which, how is your life now that you attained the rank?" – Asked Iruka, before Naruto turned his neck to face Iruka.
"It's been good so far, I've had the opportunity to work with some outstanding shinobi and even became friends with a few. I managed to improve my skills under Kakashi and Aoi-sensei and have the heart of a lovely yet sadistic kunoichi, live is going well so far, yes" – Said Naruto, earning a smile from Iruka.
"On top of that, rumor has it that you are on your way to become one of Konoha's elite Jounin, I think congratulations are in order" – Said Iruka, as he realized that his destination was close.
"I wouldn't say elite, I've only just became a Jounin. You're talking as if I'm close to rival Kakashi-sensei or Gai-sensei's skills, its bit exaggerating" – Smiled Naruto, since modesty was a characteristic that he shared and Iruka frowned at that.
"It's not good to underestimate yourself Naruto, sure Kakashi and Gai are on a level superior to yours, but they have close to ten years more of experience than you, I know they agree with me when I say that you may surpass them in maybe a year or two. Now, wait right here, I'll just deliver these papers and be right back" – Said Iruka, to which Naruto nodded and found a bench to sit on while he waited for his sensei. He bended one leg on top of the other as he watched the population roaming freely around the streets; however his eyes landed on someone he actually didn't want to meet. It's not that Naruto loathed this person or anything, but ever since that faithful day, the last drop of friendship ended between Naruto and Sakura.
Sakura for her part eyed the blond with a sad expression. She remembered a mission she went with him a couple of days ago when he had to escort her to a village to attend a very sick civilian who was being targeted by some thugs. On the way, neither of them said a word to the other, outside of the ones regarding the mission at hand. Sakura remembered the good old days when Team 7 was united and couldn't help but loath the path that the team followed. Sasuke was arrested for defecting the village and Naruto choose to part ways. In the end, the team was disbanded and each went to separate functions. Sakura got to spend more time at the hospital and Naruto became a Jounin doing A and B ranked missions for the village with other shinobi.
Naruto, she reasoned, lost that goofy smile of his ever since she used him to vent her frustrations about not being able to return Sasuke to the village and now Sakura knew that Naruto went from a teammate/friend to a stranger. With nothing to say, Sakura continued her path, never bothering to look back, since she knew that Naruto wouldn't even bother talking to her. However, on pure impulse, she turned to see if he was watching her back, just to be disappointed once more as she saw the blond leaving with Iruka-sensei right next to him.
Back to Naruto, he was conversing with Iruka as they reached a restaurant to get some tea.
"So what happened between you and Sakura?" – Asked Iruka with a serious tone, but inside worried that Naruto didn't even look down or even displayed one slightest sign of sadness.
"Long story short, we went on a mission to encounter the Uchiha and try to bring him back. We fought against Orochimaru and he escaped, we followed him to their hideout before we found Sasuke. We couldn't do anything and in the end, he escaped. On our way back, Sakura decided to blame the mission failure on me. Since then, I no longer speak with her, nor should I ever, outside of missions of course" – Explained Naruto as he had another zip of his tea. Iruka, though, fixed his gaze at the blond, but Naruto didn't finish. "I guess she thought that I would accept the blame and that she could use me as punching bag to vent her frustrations on.
"It shouldn't be like this, although from your story, she did have some fault. Still, at least you're professional enough to do a couple of missions with her, as I heard" – Said Iruka as he zipped some tea and then looked at Naruto. "So you intend not to speak to her or what? After all, you do share some level of history" – Asked Iruka.
"One considerably short history at that; we were part of the same Genin team for no more than a year after I left with Jiraiya for the training trip. After that, I did two missions with Sakura and you know the rest. I'm not saying that I'm angry at her or something like that, it's just that whatever bond we shared, now vanished" – Explained Naruto, earning a nod from Iruka who in turn finished his cup of tea.
"I see, well sometimes it happens that the team falls apart, in time everything will fall into place and both of you will lead your separate lives, now tell me about Anko, how is going between you two?" – Asked Iruka before seeing that smile on Naruto's face as he began explaining.
===At the Hokage's office===
The sun was quickly setting down and the sky was already displaying that orange hue. Tsunade was deep in thought after Keiko told her everything that whoever performs the mission must know.
"As soon as you step foot outside of Konoha, your enemies will see and try to kill you and if you're right, then you'd be outnumbered severely. You'd need someone with high chakra capacity and experienced on fighting against multiple opponents at once. I can tell you right now, that not many in Konoha manage such a feat on their own. We have a teamwork policy, better functioning as a team than individually." – Wondered Tsunade out loud, while Keiko was nodding about everything. "Well, Keiko-san it won't do any good to travel at night, so I'll advise you to rent a hotel room and then come back here tomorrow morning to know the jounin that will be escorting you.
"You're right; I'll leave you be, then Hokage-sama. I appreciate what Konoha is doing for Kiri and please note that should our side wins the war, Kiri will be in debt with Konoha" – Said Keiko as she followed the two Anbu to a hotel, thus leaving Tsunade alone to think as she looked outside her office window. Instantly, a list of Jounin appeared in her mind, but none of those fit the criteria necessary for the mission to Kiri. Kakashi would be one, but he was sent on a mission with Aoi's Genin team and wouldn't be back for at least another week. Gai was restricted to doing team missions since he's more of a Taijutsu specialist and Asuma just didn't have the necessary chakra to face the Mizukage's forces. Tsunade knew only one person that matched the criteria, although she surely didn't want to choose him. As much of a chakra powerhouse, he also had experience with fighting multiple boogies.
===With Naruto===
After saying goodbye to Iruka, Naruto headed to his apartment to end the night. He was somewhat tired from the heavy training in the morning and the fight against Yuugao. He, then, took off his clothes and went for a quick hot shower in order to relax his muscles. The hot water would cleanse every strain he accumulated today and also the feeling of the hot water hitting the skin was something that everyone enjoyed after a long day.
Ten minutes later, Naruto put on some sleeping clothes and settled on his bed as he grabbed one of the books he borrowed from the library. It consisted of an introduction to fire Ninjutsu and even had an explanation aimed at those with a different affinity. Naruto already learned that most fire jutsu begin inside the ninja's lungs and then exhaled the heated air to form the jutsu; however wind jutsu were similar, so Naruto just couldn't focus fire chakra inside his lungs, instead only getting wind techniques. It was frustrating for Naruto that he wasn't able to perform fire techniques.
The blond was reading a chapter of the book when suddenly he heard a voice inside his mind. If fire is what you wish, then its fire you'll get. When the blond realized, he was standing in front of the gigantic creature in all its glory, instead of just the big eyes and teeth. "It's been some time since we've spoken kyuubi-teme, but since today was just about meeting old acquaintances, maybe it would be a great idea to make a visit and what a lovely home you have here, if I can say so myself" – Joked Naruto, before hearing a snort from the fox in response.
"So it seems that my jailor does not fear my presence, like the little brat from before. It's been a long time since you asked for my help, now you finally realized that you're nothing without me and came once again" – Laughed Kyuubi, but he saw that Naruto wasn't fazed at all.
"Actually, I didn't come here to ask for help, other than wanting to know about a way for me to be able to use fire techniques in battle without me ending up using Fuuton jutsus instead" – Explained Naruto, before seeing the fox deep in thought.
"The reason is pretty simple, brat. Fire and Wind are dead opposites, to learn both are almost impossible. However, you have an advantage that other doesn't; me. By using my chakra, you can use my affinity which is of course, Katon. However, I can't guarantee you'll be able to use both at the same time, but at least you'll be able to complete four elements instead of just three" – Said Kyuubi. "Nevertheless, I know how stubborn you are when asking for my help, so I'll try and explain how you can use fire jutsu. Since you already learn the theory behind it, the only step left is to learn how to ignite the chakra inside your lungs. Hand seals are able to do that, you must end the sequence with the tiger seal, that is akin to the fire element, this seal is directly responsible for igniting the chakra inside your lungs, enabling you to do fire techniques. However, it will demand a lot of your chakra for the simplest techniques, since you don't possess the affinity and you don't wish to use mine" – Explained Kyuubi, earning a nod from Naruto as he remembered reading this on the book's introduction pages.
And so, Naruto began to practice a fire technique called Katon Goukakyuu no Jutsu (Fire Release: Grand Fireball Jutsu) under the tutelage of the Fire Demon Lord, while sleeping in the real world.
===The next day===
Nine o'clock in the morning and the alarm went crazy on Naruto's ear. The blond practically slammed the snooze button and got up instantly as his eyes were just adjusting to the sunlight. Images of the gigantic fireball being exhaled from his mouth brought a smile on his face and he really thought about thanking the damn furball for aiding him in discovering what was missing in his attempts. Naruto felt a bit sheepish about not discovering that the whole problem was caused by a wrong choice of hand seals, a mistake that a Jounin level ninja must never do.
As Naruto got up, a sudden noise alerted him as it came from the kitchen. Grabbing his kodashi, Naruto approached the door when he opened it slightly to see who was inside his apartment. He smiled, though, when he saw his girlfriend with only fishnet clothing making what appeared to be some eggs.
"Morning Naruto-kun, I returned yesterday but you're already asleep, I didn't want to wake you up" – Said Anko as Naruto hugged her from behind and kissed her cheek with affection, earning giggling from the woman who in turn was now used to being loved by someone.
"So how was the mission?" – Asked Naruto as he grabbed two plates from the armoire as well as products at the refrigerator to make some coffee and milk.
"Nothing special really, I was sent to investigate some disturbances, but it turned out there was just some thugs causing trouble. Dealt with them quickly and came home. So, how was your day yesterday?" – Asked Anko as she placed the fried eggs on Naruto's place, before sitting on the other chair, before fixing her some coffee and milk.
"Training most of the time, I've got to spar with Yuugao and met both Tonari and Kaito, they were a part of my Genin team to attempt the Chuunin exams. Afterwards, I found team Gai and stayed with them a little bit, ending the day visiting Iruka-sensei and having some tea with him. Ah, I have great news. Remember the trouble I was having with Katon Ninjutsu" – Said Naruto, earning a nod from Anko issuing him to continue. "I feel asleep yesterday and ended up in the kyuubi's cage. In the end, he was the one who pointed out why I wasn't able to do the technique, which was using the tiger seal at the end of the jutsu" – Explained Naruto while scratching his head in embarrassment upon seeing Anko lifting an eyebrow, like she wasn't believing that this was the reason.
"Well, then, you already know four elements then, congrats indeed. How many techniques you know using fire?" – Asked Anko as she was eating her egg.
"One actually, the grand fireball technique was all I managed to learn, it takes too much chakra taxing to do it, so I'll just stick to this technique. After all, I prefer using Fuuton and Doton techniques in battle, so Katon will serve as a backup plan…" – Said Naruto, but was interrupted when he heard someone knocking on his door. Upon opening it, he saw an Anbu outside, before taking a message scroll from Tsunade. After grabbing, the Anbu vanished and Naruto returned inside while looking at the message.
"What is it?" – Asked Anko, while Naruto was reading the message.
"It appears that the Hokage wishes to see me in an hour, wonder why, though?" – Asked Naruto as he placed the message on the table.
"A mission, maybe; you're complaining that you weren't able to get an exciting mission. Tsunade-sama could be sending you in one" – Reasoned Anko, earning a nod from Naruto.
"I guess you're right, anyway I must get ready then. Will you accompany me to the shower Anko-chan? It's been a while since I felt your lovely skin and…."- Said Naruto, but stopped once Anko suddenly kissed him passionately for a moment.
"Say no more Naruto-kun, Also if by chance, your mission takes too long, we won't be able to have our time" – Said Anko as she stripped bare naked and used a sexy voice for Naruto to join her and wash her back.
===At the Hokage's office===
An hour later, both Tsunade and Keiko were inside the Hokage's office as Tsunade was explaining to the Kiri kunoichi about the shinobi who will be escorting her back home.
"I assure you Keiko-san; I selected a Jounin that fits the category you searched for. He is well-versed in fighting multiple enemies and also possesses very high chakra reserves, he should be arriving anytime now" – Said Tsunade, earning a nod from Keiko, when suddenly both of them heard someone knocking on the door, before Tsunade smiled and gave the authorization.
"Greetings Hokage-sama, you reached for me" – Said Naruto as he entered the office and closed the door. However, Naruto saw another person inside as well as the Kiri insignia strapped on her belt.
"Konoha no Kiroi Senko (Yellow Flash)?"- Stuttered Keiko, earning surprised looks from Naruto for a while, before he smiled, but it was Tsunade who laughed and corrected the Kiri kunoichi.
"No Keiko-san, this is Uzumaki Naruto, the Yondaime Hokage died a long time ago, although Naruto sure has a very uncanny resemblance to the Yellow Flash, he's not him" – Said Tsunade, before seeing Keiko nod at her explanation. She, then, turned to Naruto for the mission explanation.
"Naruto, this is Aisu Keiko, in other words Kirigakure no Aisuotome. She is hiring us for an escort mission to her house in Mist Village and you were selected to escort her back. This is S ranked" – Said Tsunade as she began explaining the mission to Naruto, who was nodding with his head, but inside, Naruto was wondering about the mission. As a Jounin, Naruto was required to understand about other villages and he damn well knew that Kirigakure was locked itself in a civil war. Also, the name Aisuotome was familiar as Naruto was studying about the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist and their influence in Kirigakure.
The blond couldn't help but snort at the situation. However, he found himself remembering that he wished for a tougher mission yesterday, and now he got one which appeared to be quite suicidal. Oh the irony of the situation, he mused as Tsunade finished explaining the situation and scheduling the mission beginning in half an hour, since Naruto needed to purchase some warm clothes because of Kiri's cold temperature and also rid himself of anything relating himself with Konoha, which meant his vest and hitai-ate.
AN: That's it for the chapter. Tell me what you all think, this new arc of Naruto will involve the end of the Kirigakure's era of tyranny by the Yondaime Mizukage. However, great danger and lots of action awaits our hero and Keiko on the way back to Kirigakure. Let's see how the blond fairs against Kiri's elite.