Guess what! I just watched Road to Ninja in English sub! It was awesome! It gave me insight on how the counterparts act in general! It was really helpful!
Alright, also, I finally made deviant art under SaitoUzumakiReborn. There isn't much on the there but it's enough for now and stuff. Anyway, lets get to the next chapter.
Chapter eleven
Metallic pupil-less silver eyes gazed down at the village hidden of the leaves. The owners face was emotionless as he gazed at it before he sighed and stood.
As he was about to leave, the a gust of wind blew, yet he stood still. Though, his attention was on the few grains of sand that landed on his hand. A small smirk adorned on his face before he vanished.
Hokage's office
Tsunade sighed as she sipped slowly on her sake. Shizune stood behind her with a usual nervous/worried look, while Jiraiya sat on the window sill and her sensei sat in a chair in front of her. The Godaime had a tired look on her face as she sipped.
"The Mizukage is still coming correct?" Tsunade asked. Shizune nodded in response, telling her he would arrive in a week. That made Tsunade sigh.
"What are we going to do about Naruto? He is way different from three years ago." Hiruzen stated. Tsunade and Jiraiya gave a nod while Shizune was a bit confused.
"What do you mean? Isn't he the same?" Shizune wondered. Jiraiya spoke up to answer her question.
"Not really. He is more sociable than what he was three years ago. If you watched him, he interacted more with his peers instead of giving them the cold shoulder. But if anything, he seems more…lax." Jiraiya stated with narrowed eyes as he gazed at the village.
Hiruzen nodded, taking note of that as well. Shizune and Tsunade were quiet, both a bit confused even more now.
"I agree. Young Naruto seems more willing to…work with us more than he was three years ago. Back then, I don't think he would be so…obliged to explain his techniques. He willingly told us about his strongest technique yet, the Kyoka Suigetsu. That technique…is…."
"Frightening." Jiraiya finished, earning a nod from Hiruzen.
"To be able bend someone's reality with such ease, is a very powerful tool. Imagine how that can work against enemies, armies! With that technique we could be near unstoppable." Hiruzen stated with a power thirsty look in his eyes before he took a deep breath to calm down.
"But what you are not thinking about Hiruzen, is the danger of the technique. The wielder." Danzo stated as he walked into the room, earning a glare from Tsunade though she didn't say anything.
"The wielder of this technique, who can only be Uzumaki, can be a danger to the village if he is not watched over. For all we know we could be trapped in a genjutsu right now, but we wouldn't be able to know. We could be playing into his hands with ease…"
"Naruto wouldn't do that!" Shizune stated earning stares from everyone in the room. She shrunk a little before she continued to speak. "He wouldn't. As cold and uncaring Naruto seems to be, he still loves this village and those within. He could have easily just left and never come back, but he did. I believe Naruto wouldn't be a danger to us, not to the village." Shizune stated.
Everyone was quiet before they turned away from her in silence.
"I guess you don't know Naruto really well. Hell, we all don't Naruto that well. For now I say we do keep an eye on him, so just in case things turn south we can solve the problem." Hiruzen stated.
"Sounds plausible. But who can we trust can really get the job done? Naruto is most likely the strongest ninja in this village." Tsunade stated, taking another sip.
"We could use Ino. Not only is she close with him, but she can sway him. Not to mention she is loyal to Konoha." Jiraiya stated.
"That won't work." Danzo stated, earning looks from everyone.
"While I agree what you are saying Jiraiya, we don't know who the Yamanaka girl is more loyal too, Konoha or Uzumaki." Danzo stated. This earned nods from Hiruzen and Jiraiya.
Though, Tsunade and Shizune were a bit annoyed by that statement. They both trained and grew close to Ino, so the fact that they questioned her loyalty to her village irritated them.
"Then what would you suggest?" Tsunade asked, already regretting that question. In truth, she wanted to trust Naruto. She wanted to trust that he had Konoha's best interest at heart, he was the one she wanted to pass the hat on too. But he seemed so distant and different that she was unsure whether too.
"My suggestion would be much better if Uzumaki was still a genin, but since he isn't it won't matter. Team 7 is essentially disbanded, due to both the remaining students being Jounin, and the third dead. Why not create a unit?" Danzo stated.
"Elaborate." Tsunade stated, glaring at Danzo with an impassive expression. The look unnerved Danzo a bit before he shook it off.
"Why don't we create a unit for Uzumaki? One that can not only learn more of him but keep an eye on him as well." Danzo stated and Jiraiya raised a brow.
"You mean like a genin team?" The Toad sannin asked and Danzo shook his head.
"No, more of a jounin unit. We can pair him up with two or three people that can go with him on missions and such. This will not only watch Uzumaki closely, but be able to see his capabilities, skills and such. We all can say…"
"We don't really know Naruto. After the first period of time he disappeared so many years ago, things were different due to the mask he wore. Then during the exams for sure we know nothing of the boy except a couple of things." Hiruzen sighed.
"He hates Senju with a passion." Tsunade stated blandly.
"He hates Minato and I with his very being." Jiraiya sighed.
"He is the grandson of Madara Uchiha." Danzo muttered.
"And he is strong as hell." Shizune finished with a small fan-girlish smile. Everyone gave her look before she looked away nervously a blush on her face.
"Anyway Danzo," Tsunade started as her eyes left Shizune. "Who do you have in mind that can actively watch Naruto, since Ino is out of the question." Tsunade said a little bitterly, though Danzo ignored it.
"I already have a few people in mind." Danzo said, a small grin on his face. Tsunade and Hiruzen kept their eyes on Danzo while Jiraiya still gazed out the window.
"I figured you would." Tsunade stated. Danzo gave a small chuckle in response.
"Who I have in mind are…"
But before he could continue on, the door was busted open by a woman who was from the message hall. She was out of breath with a little bit of sweat dripping down her forehead.
"Hokage-sama urgent news!" The woman stated, causing everyone to look at her in wonder. Once she was sure she got her leaders attention she spoke. "We just received word that Sunagakure was attacked and the Kazekage has been captured!" She told them.
Tsunade and Jiraiya's eyes were wide, Danzo opened his single hardened eye and Hiruzen and Shizune were silent.
"They have asked for assistance." The woman finished. Tsunade sighed as she finished her sake. After taking another breath she looked towards Shizune.
"Shizune! I want Jounin Sakura Haruno, Naruto Uzumaki, Kakashi Hatake, and minister Sabaku in my office in ten minutes." Tsunade ordered. Shizune nodded and left to go do that. The Hokage then turned to the messenger before giving her orders as well.
"And you, send our fastest bird back to Suna telling them help is on the way." Tsunade ordered. The woman bowed before running off. Tsunade gave another sigh as Danzo spoke.
"If you really are sending Uzumaki to help Suna then this could be the perfect opportunity too…" Danzo paused as Tsunade held a finger up and shook her head.
"While this idea is…pleasant, now isn't the time. The Kazekage needs our help as soon as possible. Adding new people so quickly will probably cause tension and we don't need that. Hence why I'm sending team 7 to go, since they were a team and know how to operate around each other. When they get back, we can go with it." Tsunade stated and Danzo nodded.
"Do you think it's Akatsuki?" Hiruzen asked and Jiraiya nodded.
"There isn't any doubt. Three years have passed and it's time for them to move." Jiraiya stated. They all remained silent before Tsunade spoke.
"What are we going to do about Naruto though? Though he is most likely stronger than all of us combined, I don't think he will be able to take on more than three members by himself. And it is only a matter of time before they come after him." Tsunade reminded.
"Uzumaki himself is an S-rank shinobi. I'm sure he can handle three, but I hear what you are saying princess Tsunade. I say we keep the Kyuubi Jinchuriki out of the village, so that way if they do come for him, Konoha will not be endangered." Danzo stated.
"It doesn't matter in the end. Our job is to protect Naruto, and any other Jinchuriki if we can. If the Akatuski get their hands on all the Jinchuriki in the end, then the villages are doomed." Jiraiya stated as he sighed.
"For now we should just keep Naruto close and on a leash. As time passes Tsunade do you think it was Akatuski who destroyed Taki?" Hiruzen wondered. The Godaime just gave a shrug.
"No information has come up yet. My network is still clueless to who the culprit is. But I need to do some investigating on a whole 'nother subject." Jiraiya muttered, mostly to himself.
"And that is?" Tsunade asked. Jiraiya was quiet before he answered.
"Not that long ago in the east, one of my informants told me there has been mass killings. At first it wasn't important, mostly bandits and what not, but now it seems small towns and villages are being invaded, leaving nothing but a pool of death." Jiraiya explained, his eyes glaring towards the mountain side.
"Strange." Hiruzen muttered to himself. He remembered tales like that when he was younger, around when the Shodaime and Nidaime were still among the living. There were constantly mass killings in certain areas, but at different times. It later turned out to be the Ichibi no Shukaku. Hiruzen was sure that it couldn't have been that Biju, as it was sealed within the Godaime Kazekage.
Besides the only Biju roaming free should be the Sanbi, but it likes to be alone and to itself…in water. Strange indeed.
"Well you figure that out Jiraiya and I'll inform you of the details of this mission once you return." Tsunade stated and Jiraiya nodded. She then looked towards Danzo, her eyes going cold a bit.
"And I'll be discussing this Naruto unit with you on a later yet sooner date." Tsunade informed and the old war hawk nodded before he left.
"No matter what, something about him still puts me off." Tsunade muttered. Hiruzen and Jiraiya nodded as she took a swig of sake from her bottle.
Naruto's apartment
Lightly snoring in his bed, sapphire eyes with slit pupils opened as soon as he heard knocking on his door. He blinked the sleep out of his eyes before groaning as he sat up and stretched. Naruto also took a peek at his clock, reading it to be 3:36 a.m.
"Ugh, who the hell is knocking on my door at this hour." Naruto muttered to himself in a half daze. As he got out of his bed, shirtless and only a pair of black shorts, he looked at his bed to see a half naked Ino in his bed.
She was wearing a purple laced bra and panties, her lips slightly apart as she slept. Naruto gave a small smile before he heard the knocking again. With a quiet groan he walked to his door and opened it to see a panting Shizune.
"Eh, Shizune? What do you want, do you know what hour it is? It's too late for a booty call." Naruto muttered, his eyes half drooped. Shizune's eye twitched in annoyance as she shook her head.
"Baka, I'm not here for that, nor will I ever will be. I'm here because Tsunade-sama sent me. You are to report to her office at once, it's an emergency. Sakura and hopefully Kakashi are already there. Hurry up and get dressed." Shizune ordered him as she left.
Naruto sighed as he closed the door and ventured back to his room. He contemplated on laying back in his bed. The blond didn't care if he was late. Hatake was late all the time, so why couldn't he be just this once? But he didn't feel like hearing Tsunade's bitching later so he headed into his closet.
When he came out he was wearing grey sweatpants with a tank top shirt. His tired eyes also caught Ino on the bed nearly fully awake wearing one of his robes.
"Where ya headed off too?" She asked curiously. Naruto sighed as he scratched the back of his head and answered.
"Tsunade wants me to go to her office. It's an emergency, Sakura and Hatake should be there right now." Naruto informed her. Ino nodded before throwing in her question.
"Could this be about Gaara's capture?" She wondered. Naruto shrugged in response.
"Most likely. Well I have to go, be back in like twenty minutes." Naruto stated as he kissed her lips before heading out.
Ino sighed as she licked her lips a bit with a smile. She laid back in the bed and closed her eyes once more, waiting for her Naruto to come back.
As Naruto walked down the streets of Konoha with his hands in his pockets, he wore an impassive face. For 3 something in the morning the streets were busier than what he thought it would be. But it was mostly shady people and prostitutes that left the red light district. Others were Shinobi.
By the time he arrived at Tsunade's door he noticed Temari was entering as well. She didn't touch the doorknob yet, but her eyes instantly met with his. Naruto gave her a small nod and she gave one back before entering, him right behind her.
"About time you two made it. I thought Shizune told you to hurry with haste." Tsunade grumbled as Naruto stood by Sakura and Temari next to Kakashi who stood on Sakura's left.
"What the hell is the emergency that you call us here at three thirty in the morning?" Naruto asked with an irritated glare. Tsunade ignored it before she spoke to answer his question.
"We just got word from Suna that Gaara, the Godaime Kazekage has been captured. Most likely by Akatsuki." Tsunade told them, earning different reactions.
Naruto's eyes hardened, Sakura seemed surprised, trying to cover a gasp, Kakashi looked up from his book, and Temari…
"What the hell you mean captured?! You mean they took my brother?! Is the village alright?!" Temari demanded, stepping forward.
"It's exactly what I mean. The Kazekage has been kidnapped. Whether Suna is in need of repair or not is uknown to me. But the letter was urgent and they need you back yesterday. You three are to travel to Suna and give them any kind of help they need." Tsunade said, giving the three Jounin a look.
"Tsunade-sama, why is just the three of us? Can't you send another person with us? We might need the extra help if were going against Akatuski." Sakura stated and Tsunade shook her head.
"I can't do that, not at the moment. I would send one of the members of team 10 but it is not right to do that as you three are more experienced and work great together. Team 9 is out on a mission, Shikamaru and Chouji were sent to check something out and team 8 was sent out earlier today." Tsunade informed.
"Understandable Hokage-sama." Kakashi stated. Tsunade nodded as she gazed at team 7.
"Listen here you three. Even though you all are jounin, I'm putting Kakashi in charge. Naruto I would suggest you but you just got back and don't have much experience to lead in crisis yet. Is this understood?" Tsunade demanded and all three nodded.
"Good move out." Tsunade dismissed but before anyone moved Naruto spoke.
"That isn't such a good idea, Tsunade. During my time away I've spent time within in Suna and the desert to know when it is safe to travel. Now is not such a good time. A storm is most likely in the making and by the time we reach the border it will already be happening." Naruto explained.
"I suggest we pack up our supplies and leave at sunrise, that way the storm will already be settling. Plus it's about four in the morning, and it would be best to finish our rest, if we get any left." Naruto muttered the last part a bit but they all heard him.
Tsunade sighed before giving a nod. After everything was established they left to prepare, and wouldn't meet at the gates till 6 a.m.
Later, Konoha gates
Sakura landed on the ground with a silent thud, fully prepared. Just to make sure was alright and ready, she tripled checked her self. Kakashi arrived with Temari a few minutes later, now the only one absent was Naruto.
"So Kakashi-sensei, what is the plan once we reach Suna?" Sakura wondered, and Temari paid attention to him as well. The jounin opened his book as he spoke.
"Well since we don't know Suna's condition, there will most likely be casulties. And since your our only medic, I want you to help out those in dire need." Kakashi stated and Sakura nodded in understanding.
"Naruto will watch over the village while I and my ninja dogs will go scout out for any clues to find Gaara." Kakashi finished. Temari and Sakura nodded before the latters attention was given to Naruto who finally appeared.
He switched his high collared orange shirt for a dark fishnet tank top and a loose orange kimono top, a black sash tied around his waist. Attached to his back was his large Gunbai.
"Alright, we ready to go?" Naruto asked. The other three nodded before they all took off for Suna.
It was quiet amongst the group as they travelled, their thoughts kept to themselves. Temari and Sakura were even with each other in speed, with Naruto way in the front, and Kakashi in the back.
Sakura realized that Kakashi was a bit too far to hear their conversation, as well was Naruto, but you could never tell with him and his sensitive ears. The pink headed girl turned to Temari to see the blonde girl's gaze was focused on Naruto's back, a far away look in her eyes.
The konoha girl raised a delicate brow before turning forward.
"So how long have you two been together?" Sakura wondered. Temari blinked in confusion before she looked at Sakura.
"Excuse me?" The girl asked. Sakura glanced at Temari then nodded to Naruto.
"You and Naruto-kun. How long have you two been seeing each other?" Sakura repeated. Temari was quiet before a small smile crossed her features.
"We haven't been together at all." Temari stated. Sakura furrowed her brows in confusion.
"Really?" She asked. Temari sighed and shook her head.
"Well that's not true. We have been together but, not too long. We never really dated or anything, it was just a fling." Temari muttered and Sakura raised her brows more, her expression telling the older girl she wanted to know more.
Temari chuckled in response before she began speaking.
"You see, a few years ago, after Suna invaded Konoha, Naruto approached Gaara and I. He wanted us to join him in his quest," Temari paused glancing at Sakura who nodded in understanding. "Well not to long after when he was training with my mother and I, I sorta developed feelings for him. We went out on a couple of dates, but then one night…I took it too far." Temari stated.
"What do you mean took it too far?" Sakura wondered. She had an idea, but the girl wanted to be sure.
"I mean we had sex." Temari stated bluntly and Sakura blinked. "It was my first and….it was nothing short of spectacular. I wanted more, so much more of him. I was ready to give all my love to him but…" Temari sighed as she remembered those times.
"What happened? He turned you down?" Sakura asked in wonder. Temari shook her head.
"No, I turned myself down. I was willing to give all my love to him and I knew he was going to love me back but…I didn't want to share him. I didn't want to share him with anyone else, I wanted him to be mine and mine alone. He understood, but wouldn't do that, as much as he wanted to love me as much as the others, he couldn't. So, we broke it off." Temari gave a bitter laugh.
"Breaking it off with Naruto-kun is one of the worst mistakes I made. He was willing to do anything for me, but I turned the chance down because I wasn't willing and still not willing to share." Temari grumbled.
Sakura turned back to look at Naruto's back, her eyes filled with love and sadness.
"Look on the bright side Temari, at least you had a chance to experience what it would be like to be with Naruto. I will never have that chance. I hurt him way to much in the past. As much as I'm sure he will see past that, I can't. The closest I can get with being in a relationship with him is being close friends, and I can barely handle that without feeling guilty." Sakura confessed.
"Its strange, how the same guy everyone used to ridicule, mock and put down all the time, is the same person who holds nothing but power, and has a large harem of girls to love him and give him what he needs. If you told me four years ago that Naruto Uzumaki would be how he is today…." Sakura gave a bitter smile, along with a bitter laugh.
"I would laugh so hard and say 'No you are mistaking the Baka with "Sasuke-kun".'" Sakura spat out the name like a bad taste. Temari was silent as she watched Sakura, before speaking.
"Seems were passengers on the same boat. We can have Naruto, but can never keep him." Temari stated and Sakura nodded in agreement. They both stopped as they realized Naruto stopped as well and landed on the ground floor. Curious, the others fell to the ground as well.
"What's up Naruto?" Kakashi asked. Naruto looked around before nodding to himself and turned to the others.
"Time for a break, I believe at least. We just crossed over to wind country, so I think it would be a better to move and regain energy. After this we continue to head straight for Suna, no breaks." Naruto stated. The two girls nodded while Kakashi gave an eye smile in agreement which Naruto ignored.
"Good, twenty minutes then we leave to save Gaara." Naruto told the group, all nodding in agreement.
Suna desert, near Land of Rivers
Flapping was heard, next to the sound of something dragging against the sand floor. The makers of these sounds was Deidara, "The Mad Bomber" of Akatsuki and Sasori of "The Red Sand". Deidara was currently riding on one of his giant clay bird creations, which was making the flapping noises.
"Ne, Sasori-danna, why is that I have to carry this load? I mean can't you carry em too hmm?" Deidara asked with a small groan. Sasori sighed irritably, giving his partner a side glare.
"Because, the Ichibi is your assignment, and you took to long to finish him anyway so therefore you carry him." Sasori answered in a deep rumbling voice. Deidara sighed in response.
Things were quiet between them till Deidara spoke again, much to Sasori's irritation.
"Ne, Sasori-danna, what do you think is up with Itachi-teme? He's been more on edge and grouchy these last few weeks hmm." Deidara mused. Sasori was silent as he thought about the organization's only Uchiha member.
"What ever is wrong with Itachi is none of my concern." Sasori grumbled in response, which made his partner huff.
Unknown to both of them, trapped within Deidara's clay birds mouth, Gaara was opening his eyes, though slowly. Sand was constantly falling off his body, revealing his true body.
The red head gave a silent groan of pain, though it would heal soon. Everything was still according to plan. After a few minutes of just resting, the Kazekage focused minute level of chakra to form his all seeing sand eye. After that was done he kept it behind Deidara and his partner to watch everything that happened on the outside around him.
However there was a difference between this eye he just created and the ones he created on the regular. This eye was a metallic silver with a pattern of ripples and three tomoes.
This eye was a way to connect with Naruto, whenever he needed too.
'I hope this will end soon.' Gaara thought to himself as he continued to rest.
With Naruto
As the blonde was resting against a tree he opened his eyes, his doujutsu active. He was able to see exactly what Gaara's eye was seeing and made mental note on whom the two Akatsuki members were.
'Very good, Gaara.' Naruto told himself within before he closed the connection and rose to call his group. Once everyone made sure things were set, they headed out for Suna.
The rest of the way was silent as they traveled through the desert. It wasn't until the group reached the gates that they were forced to stop.
"Halt!" The guard stated. Temari immeditatley stepped forward with a stoic look. The guard's eyes widened in surprise before he bowed.
"Temari-sama, my apologies. Welcome back." The guard greeted. Temari nodded as they walked passed the guard to run into Baki, who nodded to the shinobi.
"Baki what's going on? What happened?" Temari demanded in a worried tone. Baki sighed as he scratched the back of his head.
"Late last night, Gaara spotted something unusal in the air. My guess is he followed it to find out it was Akatsuki." Baki stated, earning narrowed eyes from Naruto.
"My question is how did they even get into the village? The wall should have watchmen at all time." Naruto inquired earning a nod from Baki as they walked.
"And it was, however, after the attack, a group containing Kankuro and I left to go get back Gaara. When we arrived, there was nothing but blood and dead bodies littering the floor and walls. There was also explosive traps, which killed some more men." Baki reported.
Hearing her other brothers name, Temari demanded to know Kankuro's situation. Baki just sighed in response.
"Instead of waiting for a unit to come back him up like I suggested, he went out alone. By the time we found him he was unconscious and poisoned. We currently can't find an antidote." Baki explained.
"Don't worry about that, I'm sure I can think of something." Sakura said, speaking up for the first time. Baki nodded in understanding as he took them to Kankuro's medical room.
The sight the group came upon was a profusely sweating Kankuro, who was still unconscious, although barely. Doctors and nurses surrounded the room, looking confused.
Sakura sighed as she tied her hair up in a high ponytail. She walked in the room, checked Kankuro's temperature before she started to bark out orders to the staff. They were silent and confused at first before Baki stepped in.
"Do what ever she says, until you hear otherwise, Haruno-san is in charge of this room and paitent, you would be wise to listen to her." Baki stated. With that said they all started doing what Sakura told them to do. The pink headed girl nodded to Baki in thanks before giving a small wink to Naruto who just chuckled.
"While Haruno-san handles this, I think Karura-sama would like to see you." Baki insisted, earning nods from everyone as they followed him to the Kazekage office.
The sand jounin knocked on the door and waited till he was given permission to enter the room. Once he did, he walked in with the others behind him.
Sitting at Gaara's desk was Karura who didn't look a day over 24, due to Naruto reviving her. She was currently finishing up the paperwork Gaara left unattended.
She looked up from her paperwork to see the two Konoha ninja in the room. Her eyes lingered on Kakashi, curiousty embedded within those eyes. Though when the switched to Naruto, they lit up in joy.
She pratically jumped over the table just trying to get to him.
"Naruto-kun!" Karura cried in joy as she held Naruto who gave her a slight hug back. Temari sweatdropped at her mothers reaction to seeing the blonde teen.
"It's been so long since I've seen you." Karura stated, earning a sweatdrop from Naruto now.
"Karura, it's only been two weeks. You act like you haven't seen me in months." Naruto stated with a blank expression. The woman gave a shrug as she stepped back.
Kakashi gazed at her beautiful figure with a blank look in his eye, though within he was soaking up her image. She wore a grayish kimono that was similar to Temari's.
However, unlike Temari, Karura's kimono stopped just right above her knees. She also had a red sash wrapped around her waist. Her kimono was partly open, revealing some cleavage. Karura also wore ankle high boots, similar to Sakura's, though in black.
Despite her sexy shinobi appearance, Kakashi could feel the power radiating off of her. Not to mention he saw the large fan that was sitting in the corner by the desk.
This woman wasn't one to be trifled with.
"Well I suppose we should get to business then." Karura sighed as she sat on the desk casually. Naruto and Temari's eye twitched in slight annoyance.
'I swear, she is just as flirty as Mei-chan.' Naruto thought to himself, while Temari had different thoughts.
'Why does she insist on wearing that? Does she not realize she embarrsess her kids?' Temari thought.
"Alright, so I'm sure Baki has filled you in about Gaara's kidnapping and Kankuro's current situation?" Karura asked with a serious tone. The three nodded in confirmation.
"Good, right now, stablilty within the village is our first priority. Which means, Temari, I want you to check so see if things are alright. Baki I want you to find a team that is strong enough to scout the area's without being killed in a single moment." Karura stated.
The two nodded.
"And you two, I requested help from Konoha to help save Gaara. Which means, I want you guys to track anything you can to find him. I'm afraid time is not on our side at the moment." Karura stated, earning nods from the two.
"Alright then. Naruto, I'll be right back, I'll have Pakkun and the gang help with the search." Kakashi stated, earning a slight nod from Naruto.
Once he left, Karura sighed.
"How is?" The woman asked, gazing into his eyes. Naruto walked towards the window that gazed over Suna.
"He's resting. I still have current information on his location right now. But as you said before, time is not on our side. It's only a matter of time before they start the process." Naruto muttered. Karura nodded in understanding.
"I better go, I'll catch you later Karu-chan." Naruto smiled before he left the room, leaving her shaking her head, a fond smile on her face as well.
On the way out the Kazekage office, he came across Sakura who smiled upon seeing him.
"Kankuro is now stable Naruto-kun." She informed. Naruto nodded as they walked down the hall together.
"Good work Sakura. Ino told me how you were a great medic but I don't think she gave you enough credit. There someone I want you to meet in the near future. I think she will be able to teach you more than Tsunade could." Naruto told her, earning a grin from the girl.
"Sakura-chan, what can you tell me of Tsunade's standing towards this Rokudaime Mizukage that is visiting Konoha soon?" Naruto wondered. Sakura looked a bit surprised before she began her answer.
"Well, Tsunade is on edge really. She seemed to trust Mei a bit more than this one. The reason she is even trying to start an alliance is to maintain the alliance, or even strengthen it. As you know Kiri and Konoha haven't really been friends, but they haven't been enemies either." Sakura informed.
Naruto nodded. Pondering on this new development even more now.
As they walked out of the building, they were greeted by Kakashi.
"Good you're here, beats me going to go get you. Now, Pakkun found out that they are headed to land of rivers." Kakashi stated.
"Good, then lets go get him." Naruto stated only to receive a shake of the head from Kakashi.
"I understand your haste to go save Gaara Naruto, but we need to rest and come up with a plan. Tsunade-sama has already send back up that should be on their way." Kakashi stated.
"Look Kakashi, there is no point in waiting around. It would be better if we rendezvoused with whatever team she sent, on our way to the land of rivers. I can handle myself against two Akatsuki members, and I'm not tired at all. Either way, I'm going to save Gaara." Naruto stated with a tone of finality.
"Then I'm going with you!" a voice said from above. The three looked to see the elder lady Chiyo, who jumped down from the building to land in front of them.
"Lady Chiyo you can't be serious!" Temari stated as she walked out of the building with Baki and other Chunin.
"That I am, it's been awhile since I laid eyes on my adorable grandson. I feel it's time to pay him a visit." Chiyo stated. Naruto grunted.
"Whatever, as long as you can keep up." Naruto stated as he started walking away.
"I'm coming with you!" Sakura stated as she walked to catch up only to be stopped by Kakashi.
"Sakura don't go, not yet. It's better too…"
"Kakashi-sensei, you told us that those who abandon the mission are trash, but those who abandon their friends are lower than that. By not helping Gaara I'm abandoning Naruto-kun, who is my friend." Sakura stated as she walked off.
Chiyo followed the two young jounin. Temari was going to go as well but Baki told her not too. Kakashi sighed before he left to follow his two students.
Once Naruto and the gang reached the gate, the blonde took off running, top speed. Sakura was right behind him with the other two lagging behind.
As Naruto ran his eye brow raised, he looked back behind him, gaining the attention of those behind him. But he wasn't looking at them, but through them. His eyes narrowed before he turned forward again.
After about twenty minutes of running through the desert, the group was tree hopping, Naruto still in the lead. However he had more than Sakura's gaze on his back. Chiyo and Kakashi were both looking at him.
"Ne, Kakashi, why is it that boy cares so much for Gaara? He is not even from the sand?" Chiyo asked. Even though she has met Naruto before, she never really got to have conversation or get to know him. So, she was really wondering why the boy would go so far for people not from his own village.
Kakashi was quiet for a few moments before he spoke. "I can't really tell you. Three years ago, when Suna attacked, it was Naruto who defeated Gaara. Back then, Naruto wasn't as passionate about things how he is now. My only guess is because of their bond of being Jinchuriki."
"I'm not sure about Gaara, but Naruto definitely led a lonely life for 13 years. They both experienced loneliness together, so they forged a bond." Kakashi shrugged.
Chiyo nodded in understanding.
Akatsuki base
Within the cave that served as their base, the Akatsuki just started to remove Gaara's biju chakra, which to him was very painful.
"We have company on the way. A total of four." Zetsu stated. This earned a looks from the other members, before they looked towards their leader.
'Who are they?' Leader asked. It was Black Zetsu who answered this time.
"Leaf ninja, Sharingan no Kakashi and Inari." This earned narrowed eyes from the leader of the organization.
'Inari? As in the Kyuubi Jinchuriki?' A nod of the head was his answer. The leaders Rinnegan eyes looked at Itachi's Sharingan eyes, he then spoke. 'Itachi, I want you and Kisame to go slow down these ninja. Use that jutsu to do so. Deidara, Sasori, prepare for a fight soon.'
The two Akatsuki members that were present physically nodded, while the other two who weren't fazed out to do their job.
Rocky Mountains
"So now is your chance to confront him, are you ready, Itachi?" Kisame asked with a shark like grin. Itachi was silent, as he already started the jutsu. Kisame in turn just chuckled as he also started the jutsu.
With Naruto
The Konoha group finally made it out of the clearing after ten more minutes. Naruto landed first and noticed Itachi standing not to far away from him with an impassive gaze.
"Itachi Uchiha, been awhile." Naruto smirked. Itachi merely gazed at Naruto who walked forward a bit, Sakura and the others appearing behind the Uzumaki.
"Naruto Uzumaki. Before we start, I want to know. Is it true?" Itachi demanded in his monotone voice. Naruto raised a brow before chuckling.
"You mean Sasuke?Yup, I killed the little bastard. He was a traitor and threat to Konoha so I eliminated him, you should be proud of me, Itachi." Naruto smirked.
Itachi glared at Naruto before he lunged at him, going in for the kill. The man didn't even get that far before he exploded in black flames.
Naruto's silver doujutsu was activated, as he glared at Itachi's downed form. The others were surprised at the swiftness Naruto used to simply killed Itachi.
The blonde walked forward passing the body. But before he could fully pass, a hand gripped his ankle, making him stop. The teen looked down at the body with no remorse.
"Next time, I expect a better fight." Naruto muttered. Before he looked away though, Itachi's lips moved. He was saying something in silence. Due to his doujutsu still being activated, he was able to read his lips.
Naruto gave a slight nod before he moved on, as the flames finally turned the body to ash.
"Lets go we're wasting time." Naruto stated before he continued on. Without waiting for a response, he started his run to the Akatsuki base, Sakura right behind him.
'Naruto, how strong have you become? Could this really have been Itachi?' Kakashi asked himself as he inspected the pile of ash. Chiyo was silent as she also stared at the ash.
'That boy had the Sharingan, could he have been the one who massacred his clan? If so how did…' "We better keep moving Kakashi, or there won't be any Akatsuki left." Chiyo chuckled before moving on.
Kakashi nodded before he followed soon after.
Akatsuki base
The leader of the group glanced over to Itachi and Kisame who re-appeared.
'Status report.' The man ordered. It was Kisame who spoke up first, humor in his voice.
"Well it seems there are four more right behind the first four; A Hyuuga, a girl, a weird kid in a spandex suit, and that infernal green beast. All Konoha ninja." Kisame reported. The leader nodded before looking at Itachi.
"I didn't get much done. The Kyuubi Jinchuriki saw me, we exchanged names, then I was a pile of ash. But I could tell he did have Sakura Haruno and Kakashi hatake as his backup, along with an old woman." Itachi finished.
Sasori was silent as he narrowed his eyes.
"Well the Kyuubi Jinchuriki won't stand a chance against my art, hmm." Deidara stated. Sasori rolled his eyes with an annoyed sigh.
Before anymore words come out, an explosion rocked the cave. Everyone looked to the entrance to see a silhouette of a man.
"Nice work, Sakura-chan." Naruto's voice praised, as a second silhouette of a woman stood by his side. Naruto soon walked into the save and met eyes with each and every Akatsuki member, his eyes lingered on Itachi's before meeting a pair of Rinnegan eyes.
Naruto blinked before he started chuckling, then full blown laughter.
"You! With the Rinnegan, I take it you're the leader of this round about of S-ranked thugs?" Naruto asked with a smirk. The man narrowed his eyes at Naruto before speaking.
'Yes, and you are?' The leader of the group asked. Naruto's smirk widened, as he gave a mock bow.
"My name is Naruto Uzumaki, also known as Inari, the Kyuubi Jinchuriki." Naruto introduced himself with a chuckle. The leader of the Akatsuki glared at Naruto before he spoke.
'I am Pein, leader of Akatsuki, and God.' The now identified Pein greeted. Naruto raised a brow, his smirk still in place.
"God eh? Well I guess I'm not one to talk, considering my Moniker. Well it was nice meeting you, Pein-sama," Naruto mocked. "But I believe you have someone I want back." Naruto stated, his smirk a little smaller.
Without moving his arm, or any part of his body, Gaara's body was pulled out of the chakra bubble he was in, and came towards Sakura, where he was set gently on the ground.
Without saying a word, Sakura set to work on checking Gaara's health. Naruto studied each Akatsuki member before he noticed someone was missing.
"Excuse me for asking, but where is Tobi?" Naruto demanded, his smirk gone, replaced with a frown. Each Akatsuki member besides Pein, Itachi and the woman looked confused.
'There is no one named Tobi here, you are mistaken, Kyuubi.' Pein stated with a glare. Naruto however was unconvinced, his attention was then given to one of the members.
'Enough of this talk! We have the Kyuubi right in front of us! We should hurry up and sacrifice him to Jashin-sama!' The member yelled. Naruto gave a small smirk.
'Shut up Hidan, we can't do anything anyway.' Another member next to Hidan stated.
'Fuck you Kakuzu!' Hidan retorted angrily. Naruto was simply amused by this whole thing. Sending out a chakra pulse, he was aware that Kakashi and were only two minutes or so behind, along with team 9.
"Listen here Pein. I'm going to let Sasori and Deidara escape today. Why? Because you all amuse me, and I have been rather bored lately. A war is on the horizon, and I want you and your crew to participate. However, don't think I won't kill any of you if I see you later on." Naruto informed.
He glanced to Sakura who nodded. Naruto made a fist, and channeled chakra into the fist and the cave. Pein who sensed the chakra, widened his eyes from the familiar feel of it.
'It was you! You're the one who destroyed Taki!' Pein stated with a tone of surprise. Naruto smirked, his eyes owning a dangerous glint.
"That's right, and you two have 5 seconds before you go kaboom." Naruto stated. Deidara immediately formed a clay bird, that picked up Sasori. Throwing a clay bug onto the ceiling, he made it explode, before he and Sasori left.
"Boom." Naruto muttered, releasing his hand, causing the cave to be engulfed in light. Once the light faded, there was nothing left of the cave except for the ground floor, there wasn't even rubble.
Sakura uncovered her eyes to see the sight and was amazed. She never seen anything like it before. And she figured this wasn't even close to a fraction of his power.
'Naruto-kun is cool!' The girl thought with a smile before she and Naruto turned to Kakashi and the others who just showed up. They all stopped mid step, looking completely baffled.
"Yo." The Uzumaki greeted with a lazy wave. It was Kakashi who spoke first.
"Naruto, what happened? Where are the Akatsuki?" Kakashi wondered.
"Hmm? Oh them, I killed them, I think." Naruto shrugged.
"And the cave?" TenTen wondered. Naruto shrugged again.
"Blew it up. Well it doesn't matter now, we have Gaara back. Sakura-chan?" Naruto asked the girl. Sakura nodded before she gave a report on the Kazekage's status.
"He's fine, just needs rest. I think we should get him back to Suna though." Sakura suggested. Naruto nodded as he slung Gaara over his shoulder.
"Lets go then." Naruto stated as he took off, Sakura nodded, right behind him. Seeing a competition, Lee followed after them, right before Neji and TenTen sighed, going after their teammate.
"Kakashi, do you really think Naruto did this?" Gai asked with a serious tone. Kakashi shrugged as he gazed over the land that used to be a cave.
"I don't know. I remember Jiraiya-sama telling me that Naruto summoned the Kyuubi during the mission to bring back Tsunade-sama. If he can summon the Kyuubi, there is no telling what he can do after three years." Kakashi explained.
"We should inform Tsunade-sama of this." Gai suggested, earning a nod from Kakashi. The two were ready to go when they noticed Chiyo's still form.
"Lady Chiyo?" Kakashi called. The old woman shook her head before going after the teenagers. The two seasoned Jounin gave each other a look before following as well.
It didn't take long for the group to head back to the desert on the way to Suna. Naruto was still ahead, Sakura just feet behind him. The blonde was thinking over his decision of including Akatsuki in the war, when something caught his attention.
'This feeling again.' The blonde thought to himself with narrowed eyes. Naruto stopped in his tracks, causing everyone else to stop too. Naruto ignored everyone's questions in favor of activating his Rinnegan and scanning the area.
His face hardened once he found what he was looking for. He turned to Sakura, telling her to hold Gaara.
"I want all of you to head back to Suna, top speed, no more lagging around." Naruto ordered. They all looked confused.
"But why? We have Gaara, so the mission should be over no danger right?" TenTen asked, only to get a shake of the head from the blonde.
"There never isn't any danger. Just do as I say. I'm right behind you." Naruto stated. Shrugging their shoulders, they all continued to make their way to Suna.
However, they felt something move…from underneath. Naruto's eyes widened as something burst from the sand. It was a giant gargantuan fish, covered in a thick, web like exoskeleton.
"What the hell is that?!" TenTen screamed in horror. Naruto cursed, he didn't expect a demon as big as this one to just appear out of nowhere. Or maybe, it was always here?
"All of you stay back!" Naruto ordered as he rushed at the giant demon that was able to swim in sand. Naruto jumped into the air, using one hand sign.
"Blaze release: Great Fire Annihilation!" Naruto roared, expelling a massive wall of black flames at the beast with a wide range. The beast roared in pain, however it shot a beam of yoki at him, causing him to dodge it.
Naruto unstrapped his Gunbai and flew down at the fish in top speed. He slammed the fan against the fish only to hear a crack from his fan.
'This exoskeleton is harder than I thought.' Naruto thought to himself. He strapped the Gunbai back to his back before jumping off the fish, finishing his hand signs as he did so.
"Wood Style: 1000 pillar holding jutsu!" Naruto yelled. Surprising everyone who was watching, thick wide, wooden pillars shot out from the sand and wrapped around the demon. The pillars succeeded, but it wouldn't be long before the demon was able to bust out.
"Hurry and go!" Naruto barked. The Konoha nin nodded before running past the demon fish. They all came across it's field of vision, which made it go crazy, wanting to eat them all.
'Of all times, a demon wants to show up, especially when I can't kill it without revealing some of my abilities.' Naruto sighed, his attention was soon given to the demon that broke out of it's wooden confines to rush at the group of Konoha ninja.
'As much as I'd hate to do this…' Naruto grumbled before he transported right in front of the fish.
He cocked his fist back before punching it in the face, sending it flying elsewhere. Naruto smirked as he transported again, to appear right above the beast.
Naruto had his palm in front of him, as he channeled chakra into it. A black strings of chakra started to weave together and condensing, forming a black sphere of spinning chakra. Adding some more chakra, a spinning ring formed around the orb.
"Dai Rasenringu(Great spiraling ring)." Naruto whispered as he dropped the sphere. It floated down at a mid pace, making it's way to the demon fish.
The fish was finally able to help it's self up, however it was too late; considering the orb just made contact with it.
The Konoha shinobi flew forward, hitting the ground due to the shockwave that just happened. Sakura and Kakashi looked back to see the explosion that just took place. Everyone else looked as well, and figured it was Naruto.
The blonde teen softly landed on the ground, not to far away from the group. He gazed at the spot where the demon was, waiting for something. After a few moments he nodded and was about to leave, when he stopped and dodged the swipe at his head.
He turned around to see a large fish like humanoid creature. Naruto was positive it was the same demon, except in a smaller and more agile form. Naruto grunted in annoyance.
"I don't have time for this." The blonde muttered. Not even a second later, his doujutsu activated once more. But that wasn't it, as a manifested dark green chakra ribcage and skeletal arms surrounded him.
The hands snatched at the demon. The left hand held it's body, squeezing it tight; while the right hand formed a spiritual katana. The arm raised before bringing the katana down on the demons head, causing it to roll off. Once that was done, the body and head was engulfed in black flames, reducing it to ash.
Naruto huffed before deactivating his doujutsu and technique. He walked over to the Konoha group and took Gaara from Sakura. He ignored the looks of wonder and awe that were directed towards him.
"Lets go, we've wasted enough time." Naruto stated before he walked off, Sakura by his side as usual. The Konoha group blinked before following Naruto to Suna.
Not too far away, watching the battle was a demonic Sasuke Uchiha. He wore the same outfit as he always did since he became a demon, but this time he didn't have his wings, due to Naruto forcibly tearing them off.
The Uchiha, glared at where the demon fish died. Naruto was easily disposing of the giant demons now. His power made him envious, he could say that Naruto could actually erase him from existence now and that bothered him greatly.
With a silent huff, he called upon a hell gate. Once it formed he walked in, making sure the connection closed behind him. The Uchiha walked down a hall that was lit with torches. After the 2 minute walk of silence he came across a large door, to which he opened with both hands, pushing it forward.
The room held darkness to which Sasuke walked into. He got on one knee and bowed his head.
"I have returned, my masters." Sasuke greeted, his tone humble and filled with respect.
"What news do you bring us?" a booming demonic voice demanded from the teen. Sasuke remained calm as he gave his report.
"The Zabacraw that was born 80 years ago has been slain. It has been slain by the heir of Juubi, Naruto Uzumaki." Sasuke informed. There was silence before another voice different from the first spoke. It was also just as booming and demonic.
"Did you confront him?" the voice asked. Sasuke shook his head in response.
"No milord. His power exceeds mine at the moment. If we fought I would have been killed." Sasuke stated, bitterness in his voice.
"Ah, so you admit you are weaker than Juubi's champion do you? That will change shortly, young one." The first voice stated. Sasuke nodded, staying silent.
"I can feel a bloody battle coming soon, my brothers. Even though Juubi's champion tries so desperately, the gates of hell will be unleashed. We must continue to prepare the army, Sasuke, you are of no longer use to us outside of this realm." The first stated, earning a slightly surprised look from the teen.
"From now on you will stay with us and continue to train, and train till you are stronger than Inari will ever be. We will count on you, Sasuke, to slay Uzumaki so he won't be able to free Juubi, am I clear?" The first demanded.
A dark grin appeared on Sasuke's face as he listened. "Crystal, milord."
"Excellent. Now before we resume your training, do what you must to ensure an army of our own. You have 72 hours." The voice stated. Sasuke nodded as he stood and bowed within the darkness.
Without another word, Sasuke left the room, leaving whatever was in the darkness to themselves.
"Do you think it is safe to not keep an eye on Uzumaki?" A third voice wondered.
"No, not at all. But at least, lets hope Uzumaki doesn't get much stronger before he releases Juubi, as we train young Sasuke. I can tell that young Sasuke and Uzumaki are fated to battle each other to the end. Juubi has her champion, why can't we?" The first voice finished.
"Agreed." Was the chorus of 7 more voices.
Sasuke walked down some more halls till he came upon a room which he opened. Within the room were a number of cells. Sasuke walked over to one of the cells and waited to be acknowledged.
Within the cell was the body of a man, he laid against the wall wearing rags for clothes. His straight black hair covered his face and his arms were under the rags for warmth, considering it was freezing cold in here which was just strange to Sasuke.
"What can I do for you, Sasuke-kun?"
"Once again, thank you all so much for rescuing Gaara-chan!" Karura thanked, mostly Naruto with a tight hug, which earned annoyed eye twitches from Temari and Sakura.
"It was no problem at all, able to get a work out actually." Naruto said with a sheepish laugh, as Karura continued to hold on to Naruto.
It was two days after Naruto and Sakura, mainly, rescued Gaara, and the Konoha group were now standing at Suna's gates, saying their goodbyes to Suna.
Gaara was dressed in his Kazekage robes, sighing as he watched his mother snuggle into Naruto's chest. After a few more moments, Karura let go of Naruto, allowing him to say goodbye to Gaara.
"Well see ya later Gaara." Naruto stated with a grin, giving his friend a handshake. Gaara nodded, a smile on his face as well.
"Hopefully I'll see you soon." The redheaded teen stated. Naruto nodded, a certain gleam in his eyes.
"Right. Lets go gang." Naruto ordered, saying his goodbyes to everyone else as well.
"YOSH! Let us race to Konoha at top speed!" Lee stated, fire within his eyes. Gai nodded with a megawatt grin.
"That's the spirit Lee! Let us show off our youth!" The eccentric jounin agreed. Neji and TenTen sighed in annoyance, while Kakashi simply shook his head. Sakura was to busy waiting for Naruto to walk beside to care about everything else.
Once everyone was ready to go, Lee and Gai took off running.
"There they go again." TenTen muttered earning a nod from Neji.
"Ne, Naruto-kun?" Sakura called, as she walked beside her friend. Naruto looked at her from the corner of his eye, wondering what was on her mind. "When we get back to Konoha, why don't me and you go somewhere to catch up? We never really got the chance." Sakura suggested.
Naruto pondered it for awhile before nodding with a smile. "Sure Sakura-chan." Naruto agreed, earning a small blush from the girl. She then mentally chastised herself for blushing.
'Shannaro! We can't act like a blushing school girl in front of Naruto-kun! Can't have another relationship like Sasuke.' Sakura told herself.
Naruto simply chuckled at the girl as he watched her facial expressions. He then turned forward, his mind on the demon he fought two days ago.
'That was no ordinary demon. What is going on? These demons have started becoming bigger and bigger. Next time I'm going to have to handle right when I sense it.' Naruto thought to himself.
Konoha, two days later
"Excellent job team 7." Tsunade praised as she listened to the report Kakashi, Naruto and Sakura gave. In truth Tsunade was really impressed with how quickly Naruto handled the mission, however she would love to gain more insight of his abilities.
Kakashi was keeping quiet, waiting for the other two to leave to talk about that strange creature they encountered a few days ago. Naruto's power was really starting to worry him. It wouldn't be much of a problem…if he knew where his true loyalties lie.
"Naruto I will want to talk with you later. Dismissed." Tsunade ordered. Naruto and Sakura bowed before leaving the room, only leaving Kakashi and Tsunade alone.
"Something you wanted to talk to me about Kakashi?" Tsunade asked with a raised brow. The jounin nodded.
"Hai, Hokage-sama. I wanted to speak with you about another major detail, both Naruto and Sakura left out during the mission. It mainly concerns Naruto." Kakashi told her.
This gained Tsunade's full attention, really wanting to know what Kakashi had to tell her.
"Go on Kakashi." Tsunade ordered. The man nodded and began to speak.
"While we going through the desert to deliver the Kazekage a…" Kakashi was interrupted however when Shizune busted into the room, gaining the other two's attention.
"Tsunade-same urgent news!" Shizune stated, earning a scowl from the Hokage.
"What is it now Shizune?!" The woman demanded, really wanting to find out what else happened on the mission.
"It's the Mizukage, Tsunade-sama. The Rokudaime Mizukage is here, in Konoha!"
And done! Whew! Another chapter finished. So hope you guys liked this chapter! I've decided to make them a bit shorter, cause it takes way to long to time 73 pages and such.
Anyway, onto the next! REVIEW!
OvO
