A/N: I initially thought to hold back this chapter and publish it next week. But, owing to a request for a double update from thepowerfulkira and me feeling awfully guilty of not posting for a long time, I have decided to publish this sooner than intended. This one is a meaty one and there are several things taking place here. I have to say, I honestly enjoyed writing this one. So, here it is.

Before we go further though, few quick answers to the reviews and PMs I got. warsage asked me about the importance of future pairings to Hatorama due to his standing in the village, as of now, I am keeping it pretty open. If there is a pairing, it will come well after the Third Shinobi War. Also, when it concerns Tsuki, he is kind of a foreshadowing. I do not know how many will pick up on him before the reveal is done, but I hope some people do.

Fujita will remain a mystery. There will be snippets here and there to clue in on his psyche, but nothing major will happen - by that I mean I wont give an OMAKE on him. There have been some interesting mentions about Danzo in the reviews which are unnervingly correct about the kind of relationship he and Hatorama shares.

Well, that's it for now. Hope you enjoy this chapter.


Chapter 24 – Misconceptions And Duty

It was yet another messenger run and I was glad that it went smoother –considering we were very close to the border of Kusa, which were the frontlines – without running into any Iwa ninjas. Ever since that first encounter with Iwa ninja, we have been ambushed a couple of times by foreign shinobi. But, nothing too dangerous. A couple of skirmishes here and there seem to sort out most of the difference in our team. Especially with Fujita mellowing out, we had pretty good teamwork in my opinion.

Roku had blossomed into a human tank from a shy little girl. The more she learned to harness her in-born power, the confident she grew into herself. Also, with Fujita refraining from being a dick, her friendship with Fujita has been mended. However, both Fujita and me were still like fire and water (considering our chakra types, it was pretty ironic, truly). Roku was the mediator between us and I didn't mind it that much either.

Despite things going well, I couldn't help but feel that Tsuki sensei still didn't like me. I thought I was making progress with the man a few weeks ago. But, all of a sudden, he began to act coldly towards me like he used to do at the beginning. Even, Roku was confused in regards to this. But, I didn't think about it much to be honest. As long as the man acted impartially and kept our resident psychopath on a tight leash, I wouldn't mind him being cold towards me.

I have begun to notice a disturbing detail about Fujita recently. I don't know if Roku or Tsuki sensei have noticed yet, but it was becoming increasingly evident as time passed. Even for ninjas, his addiction to killing people was beginning to feel strange for me. But, I guess it was my feelings from Before acting up. Considering how I had killed at least half of his kill count, I was in no place to judge it.

All in all, I was content with how peaceful – as peaceful as it could get with a freaking war going on – things have been for our team.

(*****)

But as fate would have it, it wouldn't last long.

We were returning from yet another messenger run – this time a little bit further into the battlezone – when things took a very nasty turn in my opinion. We were just ten minutes away from the border of the Fire country and into Kusa, when fate decided to play with us.

I looked up at signal flare burning high above the treeline, slightly to our left and behind, and groaned internally. Even Tsuki sensei looked tense at the sighting of the signal flare. Anyone with common sense would. But, it can't be said for Fujita. Kami, why did he have to look so eager?

Tsuki sensei motioned us to stop. From my estimation, it would take us five minutes to reach the destination where the signal flare lit up. That was awfully close to our team, and the worst part is we weren't even aware of someone this close to us.

"Hatorama, I heard you were a sensor. Can you give us a brief on the situation?" Tsuki sensei asked in a tight voice.

Fujita snapped towards me as if he didn't believe it.

I let out a huge sigh, "I don't have any formal training sensei. But, I will try."

"You are a sensor? Why didn't you tell us?" Fujita shouted at me.

"Hato kun, you are a sensor?" Roku asked me in disbelief.

"Later," I said to her and crouched down and touched the ground with the tip of my fingers.

Tsuki sensei's eyebrows rose in response to my action. I didn't have any time to mind it. As I concentrated on spreading my senses into the ground and let it ripple through as far as I could get without harming myself from information overflow, an aerial overview – with me at the center and expanding rapidly in a circular fashion - emerged in my head.

I could feel Tsuki sensei, Fujita, and Roku around me. A little behind us from the direction of Konoha, four signatures were approaching us rapidly. Allies – I breathed in relief. And this particular team, I was more than familiar with.

As I spread it further, I grimaced. A lone signature was flickering as if it was on the verge of death. A Konoha Anbu – my mind supplied. I wondered who could push an Anbu to such a state and make his request for help this close to the border.

As I spread it further, I saw a bright signature closing in on the Anbu from the direction of Kusa. My eyes popped out in horror.

"Hatorama, what's the situation?" Tsuki sensei asked in a hurry.

At that exact moment, Minato's team joined our team. Minato took one look at my posture and halted. But, I didn't mind any of them, instead, I spread my sensing further and a cold pit of ice formed in my stomach. I realized that there literally was no time to waste if I don't want to die. I abruptly stood up and began reporting my findings.

"A Konoha Anbu, probably injured heavily and on the verge of death is two minutes away from our location. One signature is closing in on him fast. And I think the Anbu has some very sensitive information if his call for help is any indication with this close to Fire country border."

Minato and Tsuki sensei nodded with a grave face.

"Then, it's easy, there are eight of us here. We can handle one man easily," Fujita snorted not knowing the immensity of the situation.

Minato shot him a disapproving glare that curbed his interruption entirely.

"Oh no, oh no, if only its that simple," I spat on the ground in anger. "We are screwed sensei, if we live from this, it would be a fucking miracle. I sensed almost twelve ninjas completing an encirclement with us in the center."

Tsuki sensei and Minato looked grave.

"Details," Minato said in agitation.

"Ten Chunin and probably two Jonin in the encirclement," I said gravely. "We might have a chance if we hurry before encirclement. But, if we retrieved the Anbu, it would be hard."

"I understand," Minato said gravely. "No time to waste Tsuki san, I will rescue the Anbu. You will lead the others from the encirclement."

"Ah Minato san, I think it would be better if you stall the guy pursuing and Tsuki sensei retrieves the Anbu," I added hastily listening to the plan.

"Shut up, Hatorama," Tsuki sensei hissed at me but Minato stopped him with a gesture.

"Any reasons for that, Hato kun?" Minato asked me critically.

"The one pursuing," I gulped nervously, "feels very similar to Kushina nee."

While Tsuki sensei and others looked at me in confusion, Minato paled as he realized how severe the situation was. They had a fucking Jinchuriki in pursuit. Minato gave a thoughtful look at Hatorama once he composed himself and nodded.

"I understand," Minato said gravely. "But, there is no need for that. Tsuki san, lead them out of the encirclement. I will retrieve the Anbu. And we will be having a talk about things you shouldn't know when I return."

"But, Minato san," I interrupted in a hurry unmindful of Tsuki sensei's angry glare or Minato's pointed look.

This was no joking matter. If Minato wasn't there, I would have told Tsuki to abandon the Anbu and save our skins. I know Minato was strong, but to fight in an encirclement of twelve shinobi and a fucking Jinchuriki to boot was a death wish. Unless…

"Here, take this with you," Minato tossed a kunai to me and I eyed the seal on it.

My eyes widened in recognition, if I was right, then this might help us out of the tricky situation.

"Is this what I think it is?" I asked Minato softly.

Being Tobirama's grandson, I had once glanced upon Hirashin. While this wasn't identical to that, I knew clearly that Minato has done his own personal modification just looking at it.

"It's just a prototype, it's still not complete," Minato smiled at me, "but it will work in a pinch. I hope this works perfectly. If not, just tell her that I loved her."

"You," I spluttered angrily. "You better make it alive. I am not telling her anything."

I growled in reply and took off not waiting for the others. The others eyed us suspiciously but didn't fall far behind us. Tsuki sensei was practically glowering at me. But, I was too caught up in the situation to give a fuck about his glowering. Kakashi's team and my teammates were irritated with me, but as they knew how serious the situation was, they let the matter go.

However, Kakashi was entirely another thing.

"Will he make it out?" he hissed at me as he matched my pace.

"Like the fuck I know, Kakashi," I growled back at him, "he should, if everything works as it is supposed to."

He understood what I was telling, being a child prodigy and all that, but he too cursed softly under his breath. It was so uncharacteristic for Kakashi he knew that Obito almost stumbled before righting himself again.

"Hatorama, explain now," Tsuki sensei growled at last unable to stomach his irritation any longer.

I paid little heed to his words as I once again stopped to sense our situation. It took me only a few moments but I couldn't help but grimace.

"The encirclement is complete," I said gravely. "Four Chunin and one Jonin in front of us. We have to punch through them in the shortest amount of time possible to avoid being ganged up by others."

Tsuki sensei looked at me in anger. However, he nodded a moment later owing to the gravity of the situation. He immediately took off, taking point, to head off the Jonin.

"Roku, stay beside me and under no condition move ahead to engage," I said to Roku who nodded grimly, "you too Fujita," I added to him causing Fujita to bristle.

"Obito, take care of Rin. All we need to do is punch through the encirclement. Do not engage in extended combat," Kakashi ordered to his teammates.

"Oi," Obito began to object.

"Shut it Obito," I hissed angrily. "And you too Fujita. Obito and Fujita will take the rear and ensure the safety of Roku and Rin. Me and Kakashi will be taking point. And I repeat, under no condition engage in prolonged combat. Focus on escaping the encirclement."

Not waiting for them to argue, I pushed off in pursuit of Tsuki sensei.

"But, but," Obito spluttered behind me, "what about Minato sensei?"

"If all goes well, he will make it," I said as I eyed the kunai he had given me.

"But,"

"Have some trust in sensei, you idiot." Kakashi snapped at him causing Obito to grumble.

As we reached Tsuki sensei, he was already engaged in combat with Iwa's Jonin.

"Kakashi, after me," I said in a hurry, "I am a suiton user."

Kakashi was about to rush into battle one of the chunin with his chakra saber, but held back hearing me. At that moment, I finished my hand seals as the chunin as he charged at me. I thanked the gods that Kakashi was smart.

Suiton – Suishoba

A wave of water exploded from my hands and rushed towards the three chunnin rushing towards me. They panicked for a second and only one managed to escape my B-rank jutsu.

"Now," I shouted forming the second set of hand seals.

At that moment, Kakashi injected Raiton chakra into my water wave. The two chunin caught in the wave were promptly electrocuted. They were also hit by the kunais thrown by Rin and Roku. As I finished my seals two water prisons emerged and caught the two electrocuted chunin in a water prison each with a clone standing above it to keep them imprisoned.

The third chunin was promptly blasted with two fireballs in midair by Fujita and Obito.

"Move," I shouted and didn't pause to hold back.

As we passed by the two Jonins, a hail of kunai attacked the Iwa Jonin causing him to blanch and scramble away. Thus freeing Tsuki sensei. Tsuki sensei formed a clone to engage with the Jonin and as me and Kakashi did the same.

Our group went ahead, making the Iwa Jonin curse. I could feel a few chakra signatures catching up to the position where we were engaging the Iwa nin earlier.

"Fujita, Obito, take point," me and Kakashi fell back to allow others to go ahead and we took the rear.

My chakra was already half gone.

"The border station is ten minutes away," Tsuki sensei said grimly. "Hold nothing back, use all your reserves to reach the border station."

We all shot forth, with me, Kakashi and Tsuki sensei bringing the rear.

Just then a huge flair of chakra emitted from behind us causing even Tsuki sensei to be shocked. We all stood stock-still for a moment before I came to my senses and started to urge them to run as fast as we can. If the sensor in the border station didn't pick up this huge flair of chakra, then they were better of dead in my opinion. Immediately, I could feel the chakra signatures following us stop and shoot off in the opposite direction. Probably to encircle Minato.

"What the hell was that?" Obito asked as we sped up.

"Minato san has engaged the enemy," I said in a subdued tone.

"Then, we must go help him," Obito shouted at me.

"The best thing you can do for Minato san is to reach the border station in the next few minutes," I said shooting a glare at him.

"But, but," Obito faltered and looked as if he was ready to return.

Even Kakashi and Rin looked as if they wanted to go back.

"Trust me, we will be more of a hindrance than help," I said trying to calm them. "Minato san has his own plan."

"And you know what he is thinking?" Kakashi asked me coldly.

"Oh, I do," I chuckled gravely, "and Kushina nee is going to skin me alive for allowing him to do that."

Kakashi exchanged a look with Obito. It was clear that they weren't happy.

"You go on, I will go help Minato," Tsuki sensei said, at last, gritting his teeth.

"There is no need sensei," I hurriedly added before he could run back into the encirclement. "Minato san knows what he is doing."

"And what would that be?" Tsuki sensei snapped at me.

"Hirashin" I whispered looking at the kunai in my hands.

Tsuki sensei looked at me and the kunai. It was clear that he didn't understand it yet. However, he understood that there was plan to Minato's madness. Ninjas were usually secretive bunch, so I guess he understood that Minato had something up his sleeve.

Before we could delve further four chakra signatures rushed towards us from the border station. And promptly, Tsuki sensei informed them of what they had stumbled across. As the explanation finished I could feel the newcomers getting angry with. It was clear that they felt that Tsuki sensei should have helped Minato to retrieve the sensitive information instead of helping a bunch of genin escape from the encirclement.

I didn't mind any of this one bit. I motioned Rin to come near.

"You know medical jutsu," I asked sharply.

"Why?" she asked in confusion.

"I have a feeling that you might need to stabilize Minato san," I said gravely.

Rin's face paled and she looked as if she was going to throttle me for answers. However, I paid it no heed and tossed the kunai in my hand into the air under everyone's bewildered gazes. As it flew, I injected a bit of chakra into the Hirashin like a ping.

And just like that, Minato popped into existence out of thin air carrying an Anbu on his shoulders. He promptly vomited blood from his mouth and fainted right away. His body landed with a thud and I could his sleeves were entirely burned, even his eyebrows looked singed.

Rin's scream tore me out of observing his body and I saw Rin scrambling to his side to check on him. Kakashi shot me a vicious glare and I was sure Obito would have fireballed my ass if not for the others present. Tsuki sensei was eyeing me with a hard glare. The others though looked mostly confused. It was not always that one saw a barely alive human being pop out of thin air after all.

"Hirashin," I said slowly, "designed by Tobirama Senju, the Second Hokage. It allows the user to transport between two points. It requires an extensive understanding of Fuinjutsu and talent to grasp the space-time concept. One of the many forbidden techniques he invented."

"Minato san has barely grasped the surface. The seal in the kunai was merely a prototype and if I have to guess it was not yet stabilized. Transporting two human beings with such an unstable seal would cause a severe backlash on the user and the people who are transported."

When I finished everyone was looking at me weirdly.

"You knew there is such a risk and yet agreed to his plan," Kakashi was literally seething.

"It is either that or get ourselves killed," I replied gravely. "I don't know about you Kakashi, I would prefer my head stay where it is."

Kakashi growled menacingly, and I had to note that he almost sounded like a rabid dog, and Obito was almost about to go ballistic. The adults though understood my statement and they nodded gravely. Roku and Fujita didn't have much idea on what transpired owing to the fact that I had only said half the reasons.

"Still, it is a bad plan, Hatorama," Tsuki sensei berated me. "If you have informed me earlier about this possibility, then we could have come up with a better possibility."

"A better possibility," I scoffed in return not bothering to mask my scorn. "You should be glad that this possibility even existed sensei."

"Hatorama, I'm your sensei and I have more experience than you. If I had all the information in the beginning, I could have come up with a better plan. Your propensity to withhold information with your allies has caused harm to Minato san."

A better plan? What could it do against a fucking Jinchuriki? I scoffed mentally.

"This is not the first time. The day I took you in as my student I told you to stop hiding things," Tsuki sensei looked as if he was going to start a rant, however, there were other sensible people.

"Enough," one of the newcomers hollered. "Keep your team troubles for later. Now lets vacate this spot before the Iwa nin catch up. We can discuss things once we returned to the border station."

The other newcomers nodded as they went to pick up Minato and the Anbu. Tsuki sensei shot me a glare and took off with Fujita and a reluctant Roku in his tow. Team Minato looked at me like they wanted to bury me alive. Especially Rin. I didn't know what the status of Minato was, but if her expression was any indication, it was way worse than I had imagined.

Kakashi eyed me coldly before letting out a snort and taking off after others. The rest of Team Minato followed him, leaving me behind with one of the newcomers. He eyed me for a moment as if contemplating what to tell, instead, he let out a huge sigh and followed the others.

All the misunderstandings could be avoided if I informed them that they were just minutes away from Iwa's Jinchuriki. But, that is not an option. After all, the reason I found about it was because of Kushina herself. And Kushina being a Jinchuriki was an S-rank secret that I wasn't supposed to know. It would only lead to more questions. Questions, which I didn't want to answer.

I let out a huge sigh at how thorny the situation was and followed behind.

(*****)

I leapt off the tree branch carrying the Anbu on my shoulders. We were nearing Konoha and I was both thankful and dreadful for it. Thankful that this ordeal was going to end soon and I could have some much-needed peace of mind and dreadful of facing an infuriated Kushina.

Kakashi, who was carrying Minato, and Rin, who was tagging along with us, were rushing towards Konoha single-mindedly, pushing forward day and night without rest. As much as I would have liked a little rest, I knew I was in no position to request some based on how they were not even bothering to look at me.

When we had reached the border station, which was a glorified bunker, Minato and the Anbu had been stabilized. However, they weren't completely out of the danger zone. Minato's innards have been badly injured and his chakra coils overburdened – probably from the backlash of Hirashin. The Anbu was also critical owing to the fact that he had numerous injuries. Hence, it was promptly determined that they would need to be brought back to Konoha.

That created a bit of a problem. Minato's team was en-route to deliver a missive from Konoha to frontlines. With Minato injured, a team without a Jonin sensei would be like a fish on a chopping board if they were to venture into the frontlines. Even though it was only a courier mission, the risks were still there.

The border station was already undermanned to spare any personnel. But, owing to the time-sensitive nature of the mission, our team was asked to do the mission. However Tsuki sensei flat out refused to take his genin – I was certain it was because of Roku – into the frontlines as our team was not yet up to that standard.

After a lot of back and forth, it was decided that Obito, myself and Fujita will be led by Tsuki sensei to the frontlines the next day. Since Rin was a medic-in-training she was tasked with bringing Minato and the Anbu back to Konoha. Kakashi would take lead and travel with Roku to transport the two injured men. Even then, Tsuki sensei refused to let Roku travel back to Konoha without his supervision.

And yet another back and forth started between Tsuki sensei and the people manning the border station. In the end, it was decreed that me, Kakashi and Rin would transport the injured men, while Tsuki sensei, Obito, Fujita, and a Chunin from the station would complete Team Minato's mission. Roku would be in the border station and would be taking over the Chunin's duty for the day.

Once decided, Kakashi immediately took off without any delay. An anxious Rin didn't feel like resting either. However, I was already running low on chakra and found it difficult to keep up with their maddening pace all the way back to Konoha. Kakashi and Rin had alternated between themselves to carry Minato, thus reducing their energy expenditure unlike me. With the added weight, I was lagging more and more behind as the time passed.

Hence, I was very thankful for the ordeal to end when the village gates came into sight. Even though I was dreading facing an irate Kushina, I was sure that I could make her see reason unlike Minato's teammates or Tsuki sensei.

Speaking of Tsuki sensei, I had to admit that the man was becoming more and more hostile towards me as each day passes. For example, the way he behaved just before we set off to Konoha all but confirmed it.

"I will see, brat," Tsuki sensei had sneered, "how you will explain yourself to the Hokage and others of your actions. You have not only withheld information from your sensei – which is subject to insubordination – and also endangered the lives of an Anbu and a respectable Jounin due to your reluctance to share that information. If I have to say, it is grounds for treasonous behavior. Your ancestors would be proud of you, won't they?"

That was yet another headache I have to deal with. All in all, this mission was becoming a total catastrophe.

As soon as we reached the gates, the Anbu stationed in the shadows leapt towards me after recognizing the Anbu on my shoulders. Entry formalities were done in a few moments, allowing us to take the injured men into the village. The Anbu took off with his fellow compatriot towards Anbu bunker. He also took care of the scroll of sensitive information the Anbu and Minato had guarded with their lives, leaving us free to take Minato to the hospital.

Kakashi and Rin shot off without waiting for me. Rather than following them, I took my time to make my way to the hospital. I was on my last legs and I wasn't going to foolishly hop on top of buildings without a proper reason. It took me a while, but I finally made my way to the hospital and promptly collapsed in the reception of exhaustion.

As I soon drifted into much-needed rest, the room darkened around me.

(*****)

When I came back to my senses the next day, I was in a hospital bed. Curiously enough it was my first hospital episode. And if the experience of stale rooms and medicine smells were any indication, I was sure that I would do everything in my power return here. But, that's all for later. For now, I had an angry jinchuriki to calm down.

Kushina giving me a flat stare was not something I wanted to wake up to. I slowly raised myself to sit and massaged my head. Fun fact – chakra exhaustion obviously results in a killer migraine. Oh joy.

"So?" Kushina asked in a silky voice, "my kid brother and my idiot boyfriend decided to test out an incomplete seal that had the potential to rip bodies apart is supposed to humor me?"

"Nee san,"

"No, shut up. I have had enough of both your idiotics. Of all people present there you should be the one to stop that dumbo from that madness. But, what do I hear?" her voice reached a dangerously low level, "Kakashi tells me you knew exactly what he was going to do and you knew that it was a prototype. And yet, you allowed him to do it. Is that what I have taught you in Fuinjutsu?"

I gulped in reply.

"I need a proper answer Hato kun, or else…" Kushina let that threat hanging over my head.

But, before I could reply, a tapping of cane came from the door. I exchanged a glance with Kushina and let out a huge sigh.

"Hato kun," Danzo walked in with his grave voice. "I expected better from you."

And that was the last fucking straw.

"You fools," I shouted angrily causing both of them to back a little. "Do you even have any idea what kind of danger we were facing out there?"

I was basically spitting in anger. And my migraine wasn't helping.

"Hatorama, calm down," Hiruzen voice came from outside as he walked in with Kakashi and Rin in tow, both glowering at me.

"I have received the report of the events that transpired from both Noharu Rin and Hatake Kakashi. Now, I will need your report. I gather from their report that there were few particulars only you and Minato knew. Unfortunately, Minato will not be able to make a report any sooner."

' And so, give your report' my mind supplied sarcastically.

"What about the Anbu agent we rescued?" I asked after a while.

"He is incapacitated," this time it was Danzo who replied.

"Well, alright, but I would like to ask those two to leave," I said unceremoniously.

Both Kakashi and Rin bristled, but they eventually stepped out without making a fuss.

"Nee san, we need privacy seals," I said as I rubbed my temples.

As Kushina's eyebrows rose, Danzo and Hiruzen exchanged looks. Seeing Hiruzen nod, Kushina hastily drew a privacy seal and engulfed the room within it.

"To start it off, I know of your status in the village Kushina nee, the real status," I said looking her in the eye.

Kushina blanched for a second, she maintained the composure. Hiruzen stopped smoking the pipe and eyed me critically. Danzo, on the other hand, looked at me like he was proud. It was weird, to be honest.

"That's an S-rank secret Hatorama. I hope you have a proper explanation for it," Hiruzen's voice was cold.

"Nothing big, actually I worked it out myself. Everyone knows one of bijuu was sealed into Mito Uzumaki san. However, there is no indication as to where it is now. With Mito san dead, there are only a handful of people who can control it. After I started studying fuinjutsu, I learned that Uzumakis were the ideal containers. And there is only one living Uzumaki in the village."

Danzo nodded like a proud teacher watching his pupil perform. Hiruzen was looking at me in consideration. Kushina though was not looking at all. She was looking at her hands on her lap.

"But, I am also a sensor. After spending so much time with nee san," Kushina looked at me abruptly after that last word, "I began to pick up a secondary chakra in her body, very volatile and dangerous."

"I understand," Hiruzen said calmly. "But I don't see how it relates to your mission or the events that occurred during your return trip."

I chuckled mirthlessly in response to that, "The main pursuer whom Minato engaged had a chakra which was similar to Kushina nee."

Both Hiruzen and Danzo looked startled. This was news to them.

"When I sensed, the Anbu was being pursued by Iwa's Jinchuriki. That must mean whatever the information that was in the scroll was really sensitive," I eyed Hiruzen thoughtfully but he didn't give any indication as to what the information was about. "I also saw Minato's team rushing towards our location. But then again, we were also being encircled by ten chunin and two jonin from Iwa. If the encirclement was complete, even with Minato sand and Tsuki sensei we would be badly outnumbered and outclassed. So, the only option was to push through the encirclement before we were ganged upon."

Danzo nodded in the back.

"The initial plan was for Tsuki sensei to lead us to break through the encirclement and Minato san to rescue the Anbu and meet up with us as soon as possible. But, I objected since I knew the chance for Minato san to escape from encirclement with the Anbu after engaging the Jinchuriki would be abysmal. I instead suggested Minato san to stall the Jinchuriki while Tsuki sensei rescued the Anbu. If both came back to help us to break out of the encirclement, at least half of us might live."

Kushina was beginning to look pale as I continued my verbal report. Hiruzen too realized that the presence of the jinchuriki complicated matters further than he had imagined. Danzo too was looking grave. I mostly attributed his look to the probable loss of sensitive information.

"But, Minato san stuck with the original plan. He had developed a prototype for Hirashin," I saw greed glitter around Danzo's eyes. "It wasn't complete. The seal wasn't stable. Even Minato san wasn't aware of the drawbacks. I think it is still a long way from becoming a Hirashin seal. Anyways, Minato san gave me an anchoring point for Hirashin and asked Tsuki sensei to lead us out of the encirclement. I knew that since Hirashin seal was just a prototype there might be some drawbacks to it. So, I also knew that the moment Minato san performed the Hirashin there was a huge chance of him becoming incapacitated. We both knew the risks. That's why I pushed ahead to a safe point to initiate the anchor."

"When I reached the safety of Konoha shinobi, I immediately initiated the anchor to pull Minato san and the Anbu out of the encirclement. I expected that would be some backlash due to the stability of the seal, so I asked Rin to be ready to treat the two. However, I never imagined that the backlash would be this heavy."

"No, the seal was relatively stable, there would have only been minor backlash as the distance wasn't too for," Kushina interrupted me as she explained what went wrong with the seal, "but, since he was also pulling another person with him, the backlash was so volatile that injured his innards and chakra coils heavily."

I winced at that. That was going to keep Minato off his feet for at least some time.

"I could have avoided all the misunderstandings between me and the others if I had explained about jinchuriki. But, then again, they would have pressed me for more information on how I knew it was a jinchuriki. Owing to the fact there was an S-rank secret involved, I felt it was best to keep it to myself," I said at last as a way of explanation to my actions.

"I see," Hiruzen looked at me calmly and just for a moment it looked like he was proud of me, but then it could have been a trick of the light.

"Hiruzen," Danzo drawled from the side, "I don't think there is anything wrong with his actions. Considering the sensitivity of the information we have received, I say it was well worth it. If anything, Hato kun must be commended for his level-headedness."

"We will see about that, Danzo," Hiruzen calmly stated as he patted my back affectionately. "But, I would still like to know why you suffered from chakra exhaustion."

"Ah that," I scratched my head a little, "I created three water clones, two water prisons and performed a B-rank jutsu in quick succession. Once we reached safety, I had to immediately carry the Anbu for the rest of the way to Konoha without any rest."

Hiruzen didn't look too amused with that. He gave me a hard glare. Danzo too looked at me with disapproval. Kushina, though, was looking thoughtful.

"Rest well," Hiruzen informed me, "I expect your team to reach Konoha in the next two days if all goes well. Use this time to recuperate."

Hiruzen and Danzo exited from the room leaving me and Kushina alone.

"Sorry nee san, I didn't know the backlash would be that bad," I said as a form of apology.

Kushina merely eyed me as she contemplated something.

"How long have you known," Kushina asked after some time.

"For a while," I said meeting her eyes.

"And, you aren't afraid?" Kushina raised her eyebrows.

"Why should I be?" I countered in reply causing her to gawk. "Nee san, I am not a brain dead idiot. You are a jailor and a prison. Why would I be afraid of a jailor who keeps a monster in prison? If anything, I only admire you more."

Kushina didn't reply for a long while. Then suddenly, I was enveloped in a bone-crushing hug that left me feeling dizzy. The warmth that flooded into me was so good that I felt content. Even the migraine I felt was not an issue anymore. However, vaguely I began to realize that I will be running out of air soon.

"Nee san…. air… air" I croaked out, at last, causing Kushina to release me in mortification.

I hungrily gulped down a few lungfuls of air before even looking at her.

"As nice as the hug was, I think it would be better if you don't do that again, nee san" I said jokingly.

With tears in her eyes, Kushina chuckled at me. She wiped away her tears and stood up suddenly. I looked at her in confusion.

"You rest," she smiled at me. "I have to go teach some brats to not bully my otutuo."

Watching her marching towards the door, I suddenly felt bad for Kakashi and Rin. While I could understand their anger towards me, I had to admit that their lack of consideration for me during the return trip didn't exactly sit well with me.

Well, if Kushina was going to take care of that tidbit, I was more than happy to let her try.

(*****)

"Oi Senju Baka," I woke to a rude was shouting in my ears and shaking me awake that evening.

As I groggily sat up and rubbed my eyes clear of sleep, Harami's pouting figure came into my vision. We both eyed each other for a second before I groaned and she smirked.

"Well, you do remember that you have to buy Anko and me Dango now, don't you?" Harami said in an overly sweet voice.

There had been a bet between me and the girls. The subject of the bet was what I would be admitted to the hospital for the first time. While there was no doubt that I would be admitted one day or other, but there was always a debate on what I would be first admitted for. Harami and Anko had bet on Chakra Exhaustion obviously.

"Yeah, yeah, alright," I groaned slightly.

"When will you be discharged from the hospital?" Harami asked happily as she saw me nod.

"Hmmm, it's only mild chakra exhaustion. So, I guess I will be discharged tomorrow," I replied.

"Oh, then we can only postpone that for the next time we meet," Harami deflated.

"Why?" I asked curiously.

"I am going on a mission," Harami said eagerly causing me to sit up straight, "my first out of village mission. Its nothing like the ones you have though, I mean it's only to a village within the Fire Country. Still, it would be great to at last step out of Konoha. We are leaving tomorrow early morning. My shishou gave me some time to go pack up."

"Oh, k k," I replied unenthusiastically, "what about Anko?"

"Oh, Anko will be here in a few minutes. I ran into her near the missions desk. She just returned from a mission with Orochimaru san."

'Huh, the snake bastard left for a mission huh. That's odd.' I mused to myself.

Ever since that conversation he had with Hiruzen about remaining inside the village, Orochimaru has been handling mostly administrative duties inside the village. He hasn't taken even one mission out of Konoha's walls. That's why it came as a surprise to me when I learned that he had taken an out of village mission.

"Well, since you will be not able to make it tonight, we can only wait till all three of us are in the village for the dango," Harami muttered in a dejected voice.

"I say it is all your fault," she glared at me angrily. "You are never in the village. At least I see Anko now and then. I haven't seen you in months, you know. Some kind of a friend you are," she huffed.

I laughed weekly to that statement. While what she said was true, it was useless to blame me. Most of the time we were either running missions or having training sessions. Tsuki sensei rarely gave us free time these days. Still, I had to admit that I had been a shitty friend to Harami. Maybe, I could rectify it as much as possible in the future.

"So, what direction are you going towards? Capital? Or one of the borders?" I asked getting up from my bed and throwing the covers away.

"Capital," Harami chirped.

"Hmm," I hummed as I stretched my limbs and searched for my possessions. "That's better, the border has been crazy. I am relieved you aren't going anywhere near there."

"Is it that bad?" Harami asked curiously.

My entire body felt so sore, and the migraine was not helping. I quickly took stock of my possessions and arranged them to my preference sitting on the bed.

"Don't even ask? We were all lucky to come back from the last mission. Even regular courier runs are becoming dangerous these days," I said as I picked up my bow and a quiver full of arrows.

"That bad huh," Harami replied softly. "Oh, by the way, where are your team? I haven't seen them here."

"They are still at the border. Running a mission. I returned to deliver an injured Anbu," I said as I stretched my limbs and heard a mighty pop echo from several of my body parts. "Come, let's go."

"Wait," Harami called in a panicked tone as I perched on the window sill. "What are you doing?"

"Buying you dango, obviously," I replied with a smile and hopped from the hospital window to the outside.

The shriek I heard from my hospital room was reply enough for me. A small smile tugged at the corners of my mouth. I landed smoothly on the ground as I was only on the second floor and performed a roll-up to stem the momentum. I winced a little as my legs hurt since I wasn't using any chakra.

"Wait, you Senju baka!" Harami's shrill shout came first, followed by herself.

There was a huge grin etched across her face.

"What if you injure yourself again, baka?" she shouted at me with that stupid grin still present on her face.

"I'm not using any chakra," I shrugged in reply.

Harami slugged my shoulder hard in reply. Before we could move, two shrieks sounded from the same window I had jumped out of. I looked up in confusion to see a nurse and Anko looking down on us. While the nurse was furious, Anko was looking at us with glee as she rubbed her neck.

"Hatorama Senju, get back to your bed this instant," the nurse shrieked at me.

Contrary to her, "Wait for me," Anko shouted and jumped out of the window.

"Hatorama Senju, get back here," the nurse's shriek echoed in my ears as I booked it.

Harami and Anko exchanged a glance for a moment before following me. As I turned to look at the shrieking nurse, I saw an amused Orochimaru watching the drama with a small smile.

(*****)

The disapproving look Biwako shot me when I entered the compound made me squirm. It was clear that she had me told about my less than stellar behavior at the hospital. Nevertheless, the hug she greeted me with was enough to assuage any of misgivings in returning to a disapproving Biwako. I let her fuss about me for a bit till Asuma came in.

As me and Asuma chatted about our missions – as much as we were allowed to – dinner was prepared. We had a nice family dinner with all of us present including Hiruzen and Orochimaru. Considering how busy those both were, it was a miracle in itself that they had time to attend the dinner.

As the dinner progressed, I began to notice some sort of disconnect between Hiruzen and Asuma. It was becoming more and more prominent that Asuma wasn't getting along with Hiruzen. And it was no secret that I tended to stay away from Orochimaru as much as possible. But, for Biwako's sake, all of us acted civilly to each other.

After dinner, I asked Asuma if anything was bothering him and whether he wanted to talk to me. He looked at me for a long moment before letting out a huge sigh and replied that it was nothing. Without speaking another word he started walking towards his room. I stood silently in the hallway at a loss. While I knew that Asuma and Hiruzen would have a falling out in the near future, I didn't know what it was exactly about. Even though I could guess the reason, there was nothing I could do about it.

(*****)

I stood in the Hokage office with my team. Tsuki sensei and the others had returned earlier that day, Our entire team was asked to assemble in the Hokage's office after two hours. While that was nothing surprising, the surprising part came from the fact that the Jonin Commander Shikaku Nara, Orochimaru The Sannin, Danzo The Warhawk, Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi and his two other advisors were waiting for us. Not to mention the several Anbu, both openly and secretly, guarding the Hokage. Quite frankly, it was an intimidating line-up.

While I was glad that my entire team came back alive – considering the very real possibility that the Iwa Jinchuriki was lurking around the border - the cold shoulders my team was giving me made me a little vexed.

The Hokage eyed us all critically for a long time with his pipe belching smoke constantly. Danzo was squinting his eyes and was giving Tsuki sensei a hard look. And if the less-than-impressed looks the Hokage's advisors were giving our team was any indication, then I could only conclude that we were in some deep shit.

"Tsuki san," Shikaku Nara said with an uncharacteristic brisk voice, "I have called your team to meet the Hokage to discuss the recent events your team had been involved in."

"Hai," Tsuki san briefly nodded that he understood.

"I gather from your report that you aren't pleased with Hatorama's conduct during the events," Shikaku Nara raised his eyebrows.

"With all due respect Hokage sama, I have raised my valid concerns to you. I hope that you can address it impartially," Tsuki sensei said in a tight voice.

"By concerns, you mean, accusing Hato kun of insubordination?" Orochimaru said in a silky voice that made me feel like dunked into ice.

'You have got to be kidding me,' I cursed mentally looking at Tsuki sensei in exasperation.

"Yes, Orochimaru san. Hatorama kun's behavior of late has been becoming more and more unruly. He is withholding information from the team that could potentially get us killed. As evidenced in the recent events, Hatorama's habit of withholding information has put Minato san in hospital. I would be glad to know that this is being addressed impartially so that Hatorama kun could understand the gravity of his actions."

I looked at my sensei in askance. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry at my sensei's stubborn personality. He could have at least discussed with me in private before filing this complaint.

"Tsuki san," the Hokage's calm voice pulled me out of my thoughts, "you have disappointed me."

If anything, Tsuki sensei looked bewildered at the turn of events. I could only pity my stubborn sensei.

"I expected more from an experienced war veteran like you," Hiruzen continued calmly. "I can see that you aren't happy with Hatorama withholding information from you, but your brash actions due to that doesn't suit a Jonin sensei."

"I suggest you remove him from his post," Danzo drawled from the side, eyeing Tsuki sensei with a hard glare. "With his distorted vision, he is unfit to teach."

Tsuki sensei looked as if he had eaten a fly. I could see his hands grip tightly to his sides. It looked like he was controlling his anger. While I agreed with Hiruzen's estimation of Tsuki sensei being brash, I didn't want him to be removed from the post. After all, anybody could make mistakes. And even then, Tsuki sensei was only being angry because I had withheld the information. While I wasn't sorry about my actions, I can't help but feel a little pity for my sensei. If anything, it was his caring for his team that made him act brashly. Removing him from his post was too cruel a punishment for it. And, apparently, Hiruzen thought so too.

"No Danzo," the Hokage spoke after a few moments, "while I am disappointed in him for his actions, removing him from his post would be too cruel. I can see that he cares about his genin a lot."

"Are you sure?" Danzo eyed Tsuki sensei like a poisonous spider. "It doesn't look like he cares for his team equally."

Tsuki sensei's arms trembled in response to that. Fujita and Roku were merely watching the entire thing in morbid fascination unaware of what was actually going on. Even I felt that I wasn't entirely aware of what was going on. There seemed to be some undercurrents here, but I couldn't catch on them.

"I am sure he treats them all with equality," Hiruzen's voice had a hard edge to it which wasn't present before. "And I hope that I am not mistaken Tsuki san."

"No, Hokage Sama," Tsuki sensei replied in a dull voice after a few moments and the entire tense atmosphere vanished.

"Good, then, in regards to the misunderstanding between your team, I have received Hatorama's report and we," Hiruzen motioned to his advisors, Orochimaru and Shikaku Nara, "are sure that Hatorama's actions were entirely justified. I am afraid I can't give you more details than that as it pertains to an S-rank secret that you aren't allowed to know."

Tsuki sensei looked at me with a glance that I wasn't able to determine what it meant.

"Meanwhile, we are also of the opinion that Hatorama Senju has performed brilliantly under stressful conditions without jeopardizing the objective of the impromptu mission and has withheld sensitive information under strenuous circumstances. These qualities exemplify his potential and his mature state of mind. Owing to that fact, we have decided to promote him to the rank of Chunin."

Then the entire room was silent as the last sentence sunk in. Tsuki sensei looked as if he couldn't believe what he was hearing. Fujita looked as if someone has plucked out both his eyes and even Roku looked shocked. Apart from our team, everyone else was sporting a gentle smile. I didn't even know that Orochimaru and Danzo could do that, for Kami's sake.

While I was still in the process of absorbing that last statement, Hiruzen commanded me.

"Hatorama Senju, step forward."

I mechanically obeyed the instruction. When Shikaku Nara handed the chunin vest to my hands and said some ceremonial bullshit, I was still processing the recent turn of events. If I was speaking honestly, I knew I would make chunin soon, but not this soon. The entire event felt surreal and I was still reeling from it when we all exited the Hokage's office.

"So," Tsuki sensei's voice shook me out of my reverie.

I looked up at him with a huge grin on my face, only for that grin to falter as I took in his face.

"So, you are happy then?" Tsuki sensei spoke to me in a caustic tone that made me take a step back in sheer surprise.

"I am sensei, I am sure anyone would be happy to be made chunin," I said politely.

"Chunin," Tsuki sensei sneered. It was a very ugly one. "You think you have earned that vest. Whatever brat, if you try any more of your shenanigans in the future missions, I will personally take care of you."

"Sensei," I was totally confused as to what the man was speaking about. "Sensei, I don't understand."

Tsuki sensei merely sneered at me.

"You all have two days off, meet me at the missions desk on the third day at the usual time," and he was gone.

I blankly stared at the spot he was in, unable to understand what I had done wrong. Fujita brushed past me and sneered before he too took off. I looked at his back for a few moments before turning around to see Roku looking at me nervously.

"Hato kun, congratulations," she said after a few more moments and she too took off after that before I could even reply.

I stood there feeling so confused at the state of affairs that even my happiness about my new promotion was stilted. In the end, I merely shook my head and started walking towards my home. My new chunin vest felt like more of a burden than anything else at that moment.

(*****)

OMAKE

Roku felt like she was doing something wrong. The look on Hato kun's face outside of the Hokage's building was bothering her more than she could admit. She realized that she didn't like that look on Hato kun's face much. But, she didn't know what she should do anymore. It was all confusing. So, she went to the only place she knew to go when she was feeling particularly confused or sad in general.

Obaa san always helped her feel better. When the kids in the academy had mocked her voice it was Obaa san that comforted her. When she was feeling nervous out being placed in a team with two boys who could have been mean like other kids, it was Obaa san that told her not to lose hope. And she also made delicious food and allowed her to eat as much as she wanted. So, it was where she went.

"What brings you here kiddo," Obaa san's kind voice came in from the house as she reached it.

Roku merely shrugged. Obaa san's wrinkled old face looked at her for a few moments before giving an understanding smile. After her Kaa san had died, it was upto her Tou san to look after her. But, as loving and kind his Tou san was, it was Obaa san that filled the gap that Kaa san had left.

"Here, help yourself," Obaa san placed a large variety of sweets for her to gorge on in front of her.

Roku knew that Obaa san's home always contained sweets. It was not only her, but most of the kids would also visit Obaa san occasionally just for her sweets. But, Obaa san was much more Roku – even if she was not related to her by blood.

Roku gorged on the sweets with abandon. She was hungry today. She had been hungry for days so to speak. The last mission had not been that good. She felt like she was not good enough to be on the team. Especially when Tsuki sensei refused to take her for the second mission but took Fujita with him. It kinda hurt her a little.

"What's with the long face kiddo?" Obaa san asked from where she was knitting.

Knitting was one of Obaa san's hobbies she knew. Knitting and baking sweets.

"I don't know if I should be a ninja, Obaa san," Roku said timidly after a long time.

"Oh, why would say that?" Obaa san asked her warmly.

"I mean, I am not good in ninjutsu like Fujita kun. My Taijutsu is only average. And I don't know any genjutsu. Even Tsuki sensei thinks that I am not good enough. Why else would he leave me in the border station, but take Fujita kun along?" Roku asked with tears in her eyes.

"Ha ha ha," Obaa san's laughter was warm, there was no ridicule to it. "Kiddo, if we go by what you say then no one can be a ninja unless they are as good as Hokage sama."

"But, but," Roku stuttered, "I can't even ki…."

"Ah kiddo, is that what's bothering you?" Obaa san put down her knitting needles and moved close to her to give a huge hug that Roku didn't know she needed.

Roku didn't answer.

"Kiddo, there is a general misconception that shinobi are nothing but killers," Obaa san continued gently stroking her hair. "Shinobi are first and foremost protectors. They protect the people, land and other things from people who intend to harm. Yes, I won't lie that shinobi kill. But, they kill to protect. Do you get the difference?"

Roku nodded slowly as she thought over Obaa san's words.

"Its this war, I say," Obaa san clucked in discontent, "If not for it, you won't feel this pressured. Now, forget all these things. Just focus on coming back home. For me. You know that Obaa san loves you right. If you don't come home Obaa san would be very sad. So, do everything you can to come home."

Roku nodded her head determinedly.

"And if you feel that you aren't good enough, then work hard to improve. Ask help from your friends, teammates, your Tou san, and your sensei. Stop worrying about not being good enough. Start doing everything you can to change it."

Stop trying and start doing

Hato kun's words echoed in her mind making her pause in her eating. She didn't know what to do with Hato kun. Hato kun had always been helpful when she felt down or confused, just like Obaa san. But…

"Ok kiddo, what's bothering you," Obaa san looked at her with a stern expression.

"I… I…" Roku faltered. She didn't know how to explain it.

Obaa san took a deep breath and gave her another warm hug that she melted into. She started petting her back and rubbing it in a soothing way. Lying in Obaa san's embrace she spoke. She spoke about how Hato kun had always helped her. She spoke of how Hato kun and Fujita kun never got along and how it was always Fujita kun who was at fault. She spoke about their latest mission and its aftermath. She spoke about Tsuki sensei expressing clearly that Hato kun was not trustworthy during their return journey. She spoke of the meeting in the Hokage's office and how Hato kun had been promoted to Chunnin because of those events.

"…. and when he stood there with a sad, confused look on his face, I didn't know what to do Obaa san. Tou san had told me to do everything Tsuki sensei says. But, seeing Hato kun like that, I feel bad, Obaa san."

Obaa san gently rubbed her back.

"You have been a bad friend Roku chan," Obaa san said after some time. "Hato kun had always helped you, hasn't he?"

Roku nodded her head. Tears were forming in her eyes.

"As a friend, you should be celebrating this good occasion with him," Obaa san said solemnly.

"But, Tsuki sensei,"

"Forget about what that brat Tsuki said," Obaa san shushed her. "You said that the Hokage said that Hato kun didn't do anything wrong, right?"

Roku merely nodded.

"Then, nothing is wrong in being his friend. If even Hokage himself says what Hato kun did was right, then he did nothing wrong. Remember, sometimes as a shinobi, you can't tell secrets even to your teammates, friends, and family. Because, for a shinobi, the village always comes first."

Roku remained silent for a long time. In the end, she queried what had been bothering her a lot.

"But what if Tsuki sensei is not happy with me?"

"Tch," Obaa san snorted. "If that brat Tsuki says not to speak to me any longer, will you follow it? No, right? Understand this, this is your life. Who you want to be friends with and who you want to speak to should only be determined by you. Don't allow others to do it. Hasn't Hato kun always helped you? It is now time for you to help Hato kun. The only question is if you are brave enough to help Hato kun."

Obaa san didn't speak much afterward. Roku was glad for that. She knew she had to think hard on this. But, after Obaa san had spoken, she understood that she had been stupid. If even Hokage sama was fine with Hato kun's actions, who is she to doubt it? Now, the only question was, as Obaa san said, whether she was brave enough to be Hato kun's friend.

And she knew she wanted to be Hato kun's friend. For that, she will try to be brave enough to help him. Because that is the duty of a friend. And Hato kun was her friend.

As Roku came to decision, she cheerfully began to eat all of the sweets Obaa san had given her.