Disclaimer: Naruto and its characters are the property of Masashi Kishimoto. However, the original characters and plot of this fic belong to me.

Author Notes: To give reader's an idea of how long this story will be, there's slightly less than half left. In other words, there's quite a lot left to do. On with the next chapter.


Chapter 28: An Impractical Endeavour

The rain was being thrown down, the sky cloudy and dark. Sakumo stood at the edge of the balcony, overlooking the village of the Confederation. It had been over a day since Team 7's arrival on the homeland.

He was being sheltered from the cold rain by the glass ceiling. The pattering sound was soothing for his troubled mind. He had made a mistake and regretted it to this day. However, explaining himself to Kakashi would be a hard task. He understood that his son was upset for various reasons, and he didn't want to distance him even more.

"I've been looking for you Sakumo." Hideaki moved the door aside and stepped onto the balcony.

"What is it?" Sakumo said with a quiet voice.

"I've been researching and as extensive as our knowledge is, I couldn't find a method to fix Naruto's seal." Hideaki clasped his hands.

Sakumo was surprised to hear the information, "We still haven't received Naruto's notes. Like Genkei-san said, they may be the solution."

Hideaki smiled grimly, "I hope they are but do you really think he knows something we don't? After all, he went to Konoha because he couldn't find the answer on his own."

"What about strengthening it so we can at least buy some time?" Sakumo faced his friend.

Hideaki stared at the falling rain, "It's possible; if Naruto has indeed been studying his seal, he must have discovered something over the past 2 years in regards to its workings. The problem then would lie with our own understanding of it. We can't spend weeks in figuring out how to help him."

Sakumo understood what he was saying, "Sakura informed me of his condition; excessive sweating, an erratic heartbeat and a body which feels like it's on fire. The Kyuubi is putting on the finishing touches; he won't last past the next few days."

Hideaki shook his head, "It's upsetting to think that the best we can do is delay his death."

"A war which hasn't even begun and we're already losing people." Sakumo gazed at the cloudy sky, "The future is bleak."

Hideaki noticed the ninja's gloomy demeanour, "Things still aren't well between you and your son?"

"Who is there to blame but me? He's suffered because of my actions; I can't make that simply go away." Sakumo could see the ocean from where he was standing.

"If you don't try, you'll regret it. You care for him, don't let such an opportunity to mend your relation pass you by." Hideaki added his thoughts on the matter.

A boat could be seen approaching from the horizon. It was quite large in size and stood out on the empty water. A deafening horn sounded, reverberating throughout the village of the Confederation.

Sakumo diverted his attention to the source of the noise, "It seems like your guests have arrived."

Hideaki nodded, "It's time for me to go." Before leaving, he finished speaking, "Think about what I said."

Sakumo heard the door close behind him before placing his hand out. The droplets of rain fell onto his open palm, but he couldn't feel their coldness due to the glove he was wearing. Sighing, he continued watching over the land.

XXXXXXXXXX

Naruto stood in front of the eighth door unmoving. Its light hit his face but he wasn't disturbed by it. Witnessing the events of his past made him think of a lot of things. He questioned certain actions he had undertaken and also about his future. What was he supposed to do? He didn't know.

"Are you only going to stand there?" Light was a few feet behind Naruto, waiting for him to enter the door.

Naruto sighed, "I'm going." He walked into the passageway, his mind feeling lighter until he felt himself taken away.

Naruto was frantic, searching around the encampment. He needed to speak with a certain individual but couldn't find him. He had now looked over the entire encampment unsuccessfully.

"What are you doing Naruto?" Yuka had her sword in her hand, ready to go and train.

Naruto turned and faced the woman, smiling nervously, "Nothing. Why? Did you need me for something?"

Yuka shook her head, "No, it's just weird seeing you run everywhere." She shrugged and walked off.

Naruto wiped the sweat from his forehead, taking a deep breath. It had been a few months since the scarlet eyed woman had come to the encampment. He was uncomfortable around her even though she was polite to him. Lately, he found it hard to even speak with her. This had made several situations complicated, especially when it came to helping her. He started running towards the only place he hadn't checked.

Approaching the top of the hill, Naruto shouted, "There you are!"

Yuudai was sitting on the edge of the cliff, his legs dangling. He looked up from the book he was reading, "What?"

Naruto advanced towards the man, "Why aren't you in your office?"

"There's no work to do. The missions have been taken care of and everyone is taking a break. What do you want?" He had a questioning tone.

Naruto cleared his throat, "I need your help with Yuka." Yuudai stared at him with a blank expression, causing him to reiterate himself, "You know, help."

"I don't understand what you're trying to say." Yuudai turned back to his book and began to read.

Naruto became frustrated, "I want to be with her." He clutched his mouth, surprised by how blunt he had been.

Yuudai faced him again, "You're a little young for that."

Naruto raised his eyebrow, not knowing what he meant before seeing the book in his hand. "No! Not like that!"

"Why are you asking me for help?" Yuudai closed the book he was reading.

Naruto was speechless for a few seconds, opening and closing his mouth, "Who else do I ask?"

Yuudai stood up, brushing the snow from his clothes. "Yuka?"

"Why would I ask her? The last time I tried something like that, she slapped me. The direct approach doesn't work." Naruto was sweating.

Yuudai was deep in thought, "I don't remember it like that. You were stuttering and incoherent so she slapped you to snap you out of it."

Naruto sighed, "The details don't matter. I can't face her, I keep thinking of that time at the hot springs."

Yuudai walked past him, "I can't help you there. But in the book I was reading, the man gave something to the woman in order to get her to fall in love with him."

"You read these books but you don't understand people. How do they keep you interested?" Naruto was confused.

"Stop asking me questions to which I don't know the answers." Yuudai left the cliff top.

Naruto tapped his chin, "Give her something, eh? What do I give her?"

Light saw Naruto escape the door, "Onto the next one?"

The blonde seemed calm and relaxed as he replied, "Yeah."

XXXXXXXXXX

Lee rushed to the back of the boat, staring at the wall of water which was now closing. He was flabbergasted by the scene, not understanding how it happened. When they had been nearing the tremendous cyclone, he feared for his life. But they had passed through with ease.

Neji slowly walked towards the jounin, "There was something in the water."

"I thought I was the only one who noticed." Lee was now looking intently at the sea.

"It was some kind of beast." Neji's byakugan faded.

Aoba started laughing, "It was a dragon. It's the guardian of this area; he's the one who let us pass."

Shikamaru was resting against the barrier, "You're laughing now but a few moments ago, you looked worried."

Aoba quieted down, "Of course, I don't control them. Only two people in the Confederation can."

Tenten was standing near the Godaime, still excited that she had travelled with her idol. The journey had been long and tiring; they had been running non-stop. Gai was the only ninja who seemed to be pumped up, and ready to go further if necessary.

Jiraiya watched the homeland come into view, "This explains why no one has found them."

Tsunade agreed, "People wouldn't dare go near that cyclone, it looks like certain death."

Konohamaru was leaning over the side of the boat, "Hey, Aoba! Who are the two that can control these dragons? I want to see them."

Aoba folded his arms, "Our leader, Hideaki-sama is one. And the other person you have already met; Naruto."

Konohamaru nearly fell over from surprise, "I knew there was more to him than he let on! He must be so strong!"

Gai supported himself; the boat was beginning to turn. "I never knew dragons existed."

The sandy beach grew further away, as the boat they were on travelled around the island. A huge village came into sight which stretched from the sea to the middle of the island.

Everyone made their way to the front of the boat, the rain splashing against their skin. The boat stopped in the port, while a few crewmen prepared to secure it. The ship had been sent from the Confederation and had waited for the group from Konoha.

Aoba looked through the rucksack he was carrying, making sure there wasn't any item missing or ruined. Satisfied with his successful completion of the mission, he led the way onto the pier.

Hideaki was standing several feet away from the ship, his hands buried in his sleeves. "Aoba, it's nice to see you again."

Aoba grinned sheepishly before handing the rucksack to the old man. "This is what you told me of. Everything he planned, it's in here."

Hideaki looked past the shinobi to the large group, "I expected less people."

The ninja from Konoha remained quiet as Aoba answered, "There were only 3 of us at first, but I thought a few more couldn't hurt considering we were going to travel so far."

Hideaki stared at Jiraiya and Tsunade, "The two remaining of the legendary sannin, it's an honour to meet you."

Jiraiya had a serious demeanour, "You've done well keeping this location secret."

Hideaki smiled, "Aoba, why don't you take our guests to a hotel. Get them cleaned up and give them something to eat. Standing around in the rain hardly does any good."

Aoba nodded and motioned for the group from Konoha, except for Jiraiya and Tsunade, to come with him. Konohamaru witnessed everyone depart but was hesitant himself, "Wait, I want to see Naruto-niichan."

The rain trickled down Hideaki's face, "At this moment in time that will do you no good. Go with Aoba, you'll meet Naruto eventually."

Hideaki turned around and walked away, with Jiraiya and Tsunade following close behind. Aoba touched his hair which was now completely wet, "Listen to him; you're a guest here. Being uncooperative and not listening doesn't send the best of impressions."

Konohamaru sighed, "I understand."

Aoba laughed, slapping him on the back, "The things they're going to talk about; you don't want to know anyway."

XXXXXXXXXX

Sakura wiped the wet cloth over Naruto's body, her eyes showing her concern. The blonde's condition was deteriorating and it was evident. The flashing seal on his stomach sent menacing vibes, it was frightening. She got up and walked towards the bathroom, washing the cloth.

The house was big; there was enough room for all of her team. She had spent her time taking care of Naruto while Sasuke trained in the garden. Kakashi was the only person who seemed to be doing nothing with his time, simply remaining in the house and roaming in his thoughts.

"Is it getting worse?" Sasuke was at the entrance of the room.

Sakura walked towards Naruto and placed the cloth on his forehead, "He's dying." She was disturbed by the scene, "I'm a medic-nin; I'm supposed to help people, but I can't do anything for him."

Sasuke didn't say anything, his own feelings confusing him. He had helped the blonde twice now but he was dying in front of him. What was the reason he let him go? He had wanted him to live without suffering.

Kakashi walked into the room, "Sakura, this isn't a task for a medical ninja. His seal is the problem; it's not your fault."

Sakura sat down, staring at the still body of the jinchuuriki. Her inability to help him kept reminding of her previous failure with Sasuke. It was paining her to see the man slowly lose his life.

The door of the house opened and voices could be heard. "What do you need my help with?" Jiraiya closed the door behind him.

Hideaki replied, "Your student was the one who sealed the Kyuubi. You must know something about the way he made his techniques."

Tsunade took off her wet jacket, "Why do you need to know about that?" Her question was answered when she saw the open door which led to where Team 7 was.

Jiraiya saw the unconscious figure of Naruto, "What happened?"

Hideaki walked towards the jinchuuriki, "His seal is weakening and we don't know how to fix it."

"When did you arrive?" Sakura raised her eyebrow, staring at her mentor.

Tsunade stood near the door, "A few minutes ago." She gazed at Naruto, wondering exactly what she had missed.

Hideaki opened the rucksack, taking out the various scrolls. He placed them on the table, unravelling them, "Helping Naruto is my first priority. After that, I will answer any questions you may have."

Jiraiya was stunned, nodding slowly. It was weird seeing his student's legacy withering away in front of him. Naruto was the last remnant of the Yondaime and what he stood for; he couldn't let him die like this. He walked towards the table and started looking through the scrolls.

XXXXXXXXXX

Their footsteps were the only noise audible in the large expanse of area. The darkness was overwhelming, looming over everything. Light was leading the way to the next door, "What's wrong? You've become quiet all of sudden."

Naruto blew some smoke out of his mouth, "I'm just thinking."

"Do you mind telling me what of?" Light continued walking onwards.

Naruto noticed he had finished his cigarette, throwing it to the ground. "It's about this place; how did I get here? Why am I here?"

Light laughed, "Once we're finished, everything will be clearer."

Naruto sighed as they came to a stop in front of the next door he'd have to walk through. There must have been a reason that he was here; he was trying hard to find the answer but it escaped him. He didn't wait for Light to speak, walking into the passage.

"Why did you drag me here?" Genkei wasn't amused.

The snow was falling heavily, covering the region. The plants, ground and everything in sight was completely white. It was extremely cold and the dragon wasn't fond of the situation.

Naruto trudged through the snow, "I told you; I'm looking for something special."

"In this weather?" Genkei's shout was muffled by the wind.

Naruto was wearing a cloak, shielding him from the cold, "Yuudai-san said that the man gave the woman something in order to make her fall in love with him. There's a rare flower on this mountain."

"Yuudai doesn't know anything about women." Genkei slammed his tail into the snow, blasting it in several directions. A path was made for him, "Try and get in my way!"

Naruto shook his head, watching Genkei speak to the snow. "That was written in the book Yuudai-san was reading; it didn't come directly from him."

Genkei found it easier to walk when he used his tail to clear a path, "Hey, this isn't so bad."

"Why didn't you do this in the first place?" Naruto walked behind the dragon.

Genkei looked at him, "Why didn't you come here on your own? That's right; because you'd probably end up in another world by losing your way."

Naruto didn't make a retort, closing in on the top of the mountain. Upon reaching his destination, he moved towards the tree which stood alone. He bent down near it, looking at the different flowers.

Genkei looked over his shoulder, "What is it?"

"I don't know which one to take." Naruto was deep in concentration, trying to figure out which was the rare one.

"Does it matter? Take all of them." Genkei looked around for a spot to rest.

Naruto plucked the flowers before tucking them inside his cloak. He stood up, noticing a cave close by. He ran towards it for shelter while Genkei destroyed a few branches. The dragon followed his summoner into the cave.

Genkei began to prepare the branches before blowing out flames from his mouth. A crackling sound filled the air as Genkei stood next to the newly created fire. He enjoyed the warmth he was receiving.

Naruto sat down on the ground, holding out his hands and letting them heat up, "When do you think we'll be able to go back?"

Genkei's dark scales were shining, "The blizzard hopefully won't get much worse. We'll probably be able to head out in the morning."

Naruto acknowledged his answer, becoming quiet. He stared at the fire which danced in front of him. After a few moments, he decided to speak, "I'm sorry for dragging you here."

Genkei looked at the boy who was now hugging himself, "Don't worry about it. It's actually been fun with you."

Naruto smiled, "Genkei…"

Genkei moved away from the fire and sat down, "What?"

"We're friends right?" Naruto hadn't taken his eyes off the crackling fire while he spoke.

Genkei was surprised with the words of the young shinobi. He hesitated before replying, "Yeah…we're friends."

Naruto's eyes darted to the entrance of the cave when he felt another presence. He stood up instantly as another cloaked figure appeared. "Who's there?"

"I was sent by Yuudai, he said to bring you back." Yuka walked into the warmth of the fire.

"We won't be able to go back yet." Genkei addressed the woman.

Yuka took a seat near Naruto, tired from her journey, "I know; it's best to wait until morning." She sighed exasperatedly, "Why did you come here?"

Naruto found it odd that the woman was sent by Yuudai. There was no need for that since he would've been able to make his way back with Genkei. He toyed with the thought that his caretaker may have actually tried to help him with winning Yuka's heart. Thinking it over for a few seconds, he inwardly waved away the notion.

Yuka observed the boy, still waiting for an answer. "Naruto?"

Naruto stopped musing and tried to think of something to say, "Uh…"

Genkei motioned for him to say anything, before going back to staring at the fire.

Naruto sighed, reaching into his cloak. He took out the flowers he had come for and handed them to Yuka. "They're for you."

Yuka's cheeks were red from the cold, "For me?"

Naruto moved forward without thinking and kissed the woman on her cheek. He didn't know what compelled him to do such an action but felt like it was the right moment.

Yuka was taken by surprise, staring at the boy. Her blank expression turned into a smile, "Thank you." It was weird having a person go to such huge lengths for her. Nonetheless, it was pleasing at the same time.

Genkei coughed rather loudly, "So, you two should be able to head back on your own tomorrow." He disappeared from his spot, leaving behind a cloud of smoke.

Naruto's cheeks were tinted red as he walked out of the passageway. He was scratching his head, a goofy smile on his face.

"Are you blushing?" Light sounded amused.

Naruto became defensive, "No, it was the snow."

Light had no idea what he was talking about, "Of course it was."

Naruto stared at the steps which seemed to be nearing the end, "There isn't long left now."

"3 more doors; don't give up." Light held his hands behind his head and started to walk.

XXXXXXXXXX

Jiraiya felt like his stomach was contracting. He was seated on a chair, his hands clasped under his chin. He observed the body of Naruto, speaking in a quiet voice, "It can't be fixed."

"That's what I feared." Hideaki was feeling slightly restless.

Jiraiya brushed his hair back, "This seal is complicated and it's essentially been destroyed. Trying to fix it is like trying to make it from scratch. Naruto's notes are helpful but he's missing the core part of the problem. I'm assuming that's why he felt the need to go to Konoha; because he knew he couldn't go any further than he already had."

Sakura was shocked, "Can't any of you help?"

Tsunade placed her hand on the kunoichi's shoulder, "Sakura, they're trying."

Hideaki addressed the frog hermit, "You must be able to strengthen it. You seem to understand some of the mechanics behind the seal."

"I can but it won't stop him from dying. The seal will still eventually break." Jiraiya hated the fact he couldn't help Naruto.

Hideaki closed his eyes, "That's better than nothing. It'll give us time to maybe discover a better solution."

Kakashi was at a loss for words, was this the end? It was disheartening to think that Naruto had ventured to Konoha, in order for a solution to his seal, and he wasn't going to be successful.

Sakura clutched her head in her hands, her heart aching. She didn't know why but it pained her to know that the blonde would die. Even if he tried to annoy her at times, he radiated a type of innocence she had rarely seen. The whole ordeal seemed unfair and tragic.

Sasuke sighed, walking away from the group of people. He made his way through the house and exited into the backyard. He could hear the rain clashing against the wooden roof. He stared at the sky which looked like it was crying. He didn't fully understand why he had helped Naruto. Maybe after all of the mistakes he had made, he was trying to prove that he was still capable of making good judgments. He walked away from the shelter and into the rain, letting it cover him. As the droplets of water trickled down his face, he spoke dejectedly, "What am I looking for?"


Author Notes: Oh no, Naruto is going to die! Or will he? The rest period is over and a lot of things are going to be revealed in the coming chapters along with hints on the future. As always, i look forward to your comments. Laters.