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

Author Notes: I'm proud of how this chapter went and it has ended up being the longest one by far. Also, i wanted to address the issue of the pairing in this fic. Yes, it will be NaruSaku and unlike my previous effort, it's going to be a more slow, detailed building of their relationship. As i've been promising you all, the storm's beginning is here and the fic will pick up in multiple ways with this update. Enjoy.

Chapter 16: Hope And Vengeance

Naruto stood in awe at the amazing sight as the lights illuminated the massive hall, the chandeliers only adding to the beauty. The floor was covered with marble as columns, enriched with patterns, supported the ceiling. Naruto's crimson eyes seemed to glow before he turned away from the door, closing it.

The jinchuuriki was in the preparation area which was quite large in itself. There were many groups gathered, all producing their meals. Naruto had never seen anything like this, as the sound of the festivity travelled into the kitchen. He had decided to change his outfit for the day because of the event, and to make himself more comfortable.

An orange shirt covered his body while black shorts hid his legs. He was feeling eager and nervous for the end of this day. It had been a long journey for him for the past 2 years, from when he first discovered his condition and then trying to somehow fix it. The forbidden scroll of Konoha was his last hope and he hoped everything would go well.

He walked towards Ayame and Teuchi, who had already unpacked the flour. Naruto spoke in an uplifting tone, "We're finally here."

Teuchi grinned, "Yeah, but don't slack off now."

Naruto stood next to Ayame, looking at what she was doing, "Shall I cut the ingredients?"

Ayame shook her head, "Afterwards. First, help us make these noodles."

Naruto nodded as he picked up some dough and began to batter it. The method of creating noodles was easily picked up by him; nevertheless he was always weary of messing up since he hadn't been doing it very long. His extra carefulness only served to make Ayame and Teuchi more pleased with his work.

Teuchi started to boil a pot of water and threw some vegetables inside, "Naruto, this is going to be your last day with us then?"

Naruto concentrated on what he was doing as he responded, "Yeah, I guess it is."

Ayame put aside the first batch of noodles she had shaped, "I'm going to miss you."

Naruto had a sly smirk as he nudged her, "It doesn't have to be the last day for us."

Teuchi had a suspicious look on his face as Ayame laughed. The woman leaned into his ear and whispered, "You can't help but flirt with everyone, eh?"

Naruto nervously laughed, "Yeah, I should get that checked." He had a more serious demeanour, "I wasn't always like this."

Ayame listened keenly, "Really?"

Naruto wiped his forehead with his arm as he finished making some noodles, "There was a time when I used to be afraid of even speaking to women."

Ayame began to cut the noodles into the right size, "It seems you've changed a lot from who you were."

Naruto let her words travel through his head, 'I've changed…'

"You two can talk later; concentrate on your work now." Teuchi had an authoritative tone as Naruto and Ayame instantly stopped talking, and began to make the noodles at a faster pace.

XXXXXXXXXX

Sasuke sat at the table alone, examining the hall of people. His presence was ordered as he wouldn't have shown up of his own accord. He didn't like the celebration as the sounds of everyone having a good time passed though his senses. Every time Konoha held such an event, he felt like an outsider who was trapped in a cage.

His eyes wandered to the door of the kitchen, behind of which Naruto stood. Sasuke had never let himself get involved with people often and kept his thoughts concealed. The situations and predicaments of others generally didn't bother him. However, he was curious as to where Naruto would end up. He didn't know anything about the blonde but remembered him from his past.

Whenever the Uchiha was seated on the pier, thinking about the tragedy of his family, he would see Naruto walking past. A lot of times, the Uzumaki would turn his head in aggravation. But just as many times he had seen the blonde frown at him, he had also seen a smile. Ironically, the last instance he would see the boy before he disappeared would be at that same pier. Sasuke had realised there was something different about him on that occasion; a lack of determination. He wondered whether Naruto remembered who he was.

He could hear a laugh as he moved his head in the direction of the biggest table in the vicinity. The Tsuchikage and the Godaime were seated there, amongst other people. Sasuke put his hands on the table, waiting for the day to come to its inevitable end.

"Sasuke-kun, why are you sitting here all alone?" Sakura had an enquiring tone as she was dressed in a pure white kimono.

Sasuke closed his eyes, "What is it that you want, Sakura?"

Sakura felt a little disturbed with his reply. She had adored the Uchiha when she was younger but now she respected him as a dear friend. Although he was back in Konoha, things seemed to be different. She and Kakashi didn't know what to do and how to boost his mood. "Why don't you come and hang around with us?"

Sasuke brushed his hair, "Thanks Sakura, but I'll pass. I'm not fond of these things."

"But you're here so you might as well take advantage of it." Sakura had an optimistic character.

Sasuke was about to respond but halted as he saw Jiraiya arrive. The legendary frog hermit was dressed in his usual attire as he turned his attention to Sakura, "Leave us alone."

Sasuke observed the novelist, noticing that he was slightly perturbed. Amazingly, since his return to Konoha, he hadn't ever talked with the old man nor had any contact with him.

Sakura sighed before slowly walking away from the two men. Jiraiya sat down on a chair before staring at the Uchiha, "I have a few issues I need to talk to you about."

Sasuke didn't say anything, remaining calm and speculating as to what this could all be about.

XXXXXXXXXX

Naruto inhaled the smell of the ramen, a pleasant feeling running through his body. The food was nearly cooked as the ingredients had all been prepared and were now boiling in the pot. He was vaguely covered in flour as he picked up a cloth and began to wipe himself.

Ayame was taking out bowls to put the ramen inside as Teuchi cleaned the dirty dishes. Naruto placed the cloth down as he began to help Ayame, "That was hard."

Teuchi laughed over the sound of the water, "I warned you yesterday, didn't I?"

Naruto nodded as he answered, "You did." He analysed the rest of the groups in the kitchen who were also finishing up. "How long before we have to start serving?"

Ayame turned the fire down under the pot of ramen. She wore some gloves and grabbed the pot, taking it to the tabletop, "Another twenty or so minutes."

"Naruto-kun!" The screech was unexpected as it resonated throughout the kitchen.

Naruto froze upon hearing his name shouted. Footsteps coming to a stop behind him, the jinchuuriki turned around, "Lee, what are you doing here?" He looked at his attire; a simple green shirt and trousers.

Lee grinned, his teeth ostensibly spotless, "I came to see what my good friend was doing. Have you finished cooking the food?"

Naruto was surprised to hear himself being called a friend. He replied calmly, "We're about to put it into the bowls. There's still some time before we have to give it out."

Ayame started to pour the ramen into the bowls with the help of her father, "Where are the rest of your friends, Lee?"

Lee looked at the woman when she addressed him, "They're outside; Tenten was with Sakura, Gai-sensei was searching for Kakashi, Neji…he wasn't doing anything." He turned his attention to Naruto, "I wanted to thank you for your help the other day."

Naruto rubbed his nose, proud of his achievement, "No problem."

Lee started tapping his foot, "It's really made an improvement. I showed the book to Tenten and she said it was a lot better. She could actually stand to read it this time."

Naruto felt his stomach rumble as he took a seat. "I'm hungry."

Ayame finished pouring the ramen and began to put the bowls onto separate trays. Upon completing her task, she placed 2 bowls in front of Naruto, "There you go."

Naruto raised an eyebrow, "Both of them?"

Ayame laughed at him, "No, one of them is for Lee."

Lee sat next to Naruto and got ready to eat. Teuchi observed the other groups exiting the kitchen with their meals as he spoke, "Once you've ate, we're going to take the food outside."

Naruto nodded as he began thrusting down the ramen, savouring the spicy yet sweet taste. The ramen began to disappear gradually as he continued on his eating rampage while Lee stared in bewilderment at the display.

XXXXXXXXXX

A cold feeling engulfed her hand as she gripped the crystal, making sure it was still with her. Tsunade couldn't explain it but she was uncomfortable with what was happening. Her hand was in her pocket, tightly wrapped around the smooth stone. She looked at the people surrounding the table; Shizune, Kakashi, her advisors and the Tsuchikage. She picked up the glass of wine in front of her, taking a tiny sip. As she placed the glass down, she was met with a stare from Kakashi. The jounin looked the other way upon being spotted as Tsunade remained silent.

"You really know how to throw a party." Hajin's voice was as serene as they had come to expect. The man never seemed to show any anger or excitement.

Tsunade observed the people in the hall; the dancers gliding across the floor as if there was no resistance, men and women laughing whilst they engaged in conversation. She sighed, "Celebrations keep the shinobi of this village happy. It gives them a break."

Hajin leaned back in his chair before taking off his hat, revealing his long red hair, "Indeed. After all, the job of a Kage is to keep their people happy and protect them."

Kakashi paid attention to the man who was older than him; he appeared to be very different from his predecessor. The Hatake was involved in the war which took place between Konoha and Iwa 20 years ago. The war was initiated by the former Tsuchikage as he had wanted Iwa to become the strongest shinobi power. Konoha didn't stand down and accepted their challenge, but this lead to many people grieving for their lost ones. In the end, it wasn't Konoha or Iwa that had decided the war's outcome.

The Tsuchikage had been found dead and the war was declared over. Remarkably, the person sitting next to him was also involved in the war. Hajin was a young man at the time, no more than 25 years old. It was him who took his father's position as the leader of Iwa when he was discovered dead.

Kakashi wasn't sure whether the cause of death for the former Tsuchikage had been established. If it had been then there was only one man who would know, and he was the current Tsuchikage. The jounin wasn't one to fear anyone but he was cautious of Hajin since he had witnessed him in action. He had seen his mentor, the Yondaime, strike fear in hundreds of shinobi and defeat just as many with ease. However, he remembered the occasion when he wouldn't be capable of finishing the job.

The Yondaime had fought Hajin during the war and though it was a long battle, there was no victor or loser. Instead both men retreated and took their squads with them. Kakashi conjectured as to how strong the man would be now, but knew that he was beyond his league undoubtedly.

"You seem so silent, Kakashi." Hajin spoke to the masked shinobi.

Kakashi kept his lazy demeanour, "There is no need for me to speak."

Hajin laughed, "Certainly, a man of few words."

Tsunade turned her head as she saw various serving parties arrive at their table and set down food. She looked at all the delectable items as she felt her appetite grow. The serving parties continued to other tables when they were finished with the crucial one. The Godaime finished her glass of wine as a tray of ramen was placed in front of her.

"This is the real main course. Forget everything else." Naruto grinned at the blonde woman.

Ayame placed several bowls of ramen in front of the different people surrounding the table, as Kakashi intensely observed the Uzumaki. Naruto handed out tissues before picking up the bottle of wine and filling the Hokage's glass to the brim.

Tsunade was shocked with his actions, "What are you doing?"

Naruto had an innocent look, "Enjoy your meal."

He turned around and walked a few feet away as Ayame finished and joined him. The truth was that he wanted Tsunade to get drunk, so he would have an easier time with her later on. Ayame prodded the man, "Do you think they'll like it?"

Naruto stared at the kitchen doors where Teuchi could be seen, "I think so, but your father's going to need some reassuring."

Ayame waved it off, "We're free to enjoy the party now."

Naruto began scanning the hall before his eyes stopped on two particular individuals. He observed Jiraiya and Sasuke as he saw them conversing, while the legendary frog hermit seemed to be uneasy. Naruto realised what it must be about, as he ardently stared at Jiraiya, "That's him…"

Ayame was confused as she heard the man, "Huh? What did you say?"

Naruto watched Sasuke stand up and leave the hall to the balcony as Jiraiya looked to be more comfortable. He turned his attention to the ramen chef, "Ayame, I'll meet up with you later if I have time."

The Uzumaki started walking towards Jiraiya as Ayame shrugged and went to search for something to do.

XXXXXXXXXX

Jiraiya clasped his hands before supporting his chin on them, the encounter with Sasuke giving him a sense of contentment. The frog hermit had wanted to talk with the Uchiha about their past for a long time now, except that he was afraid to. He was glad to know that Sasuke didn't blame him for what had happened to him.

Jiraiya had thought for a long time that he may have been able to prevent the sharingan user from leaving if he'd trained him. However, what Sasuke had said to him moments ago cleansed his mind of any qualms. He felt as if the Uchiha had matured more than he could have imagined. Jiraiya perfectly understood what Sasuke was saying but he felt remorse for the position he was in.

"I don't blame you or anyone. I chose this path knowing what I was getting myself into. In reality, I wanted the end to be different; I had that hope."

Jiraiya moved his hands from the table as food was placed down. He wasn't very hungry, seeing as he had already eaten before coming to the celebration. Sighing, he poured himself a glass of sake and began to drink.

"So, he's the one?" Naruto stared in the direction of Sasuke as he spoke.

Jiraiya stopped the cup of sake at his lips, looking at the man before resuming. Placing the cup on the table, he answered, "What are you on about?"

Naruto pulled a chair towards himself and sat down, "He's the one you regret not training."

Jiraiya was briefly surprised, wondering how he must have come to that conclusion. He didn't bother asking since there were many things he didn't know about him. "Yeah, he is."

Naruto had a curious expression, "Do you really believe you not training him was the only reason for him leaving?"

Jiraiya gave a weak laugh, "Of course not. A lot of things happened which resulted in his departure."

Naruto picked up some salad and ate it, "Like what?"

Jiraiya finished his cup of sake, "During the chuunin exams, his team mate was killed. Soon after that, his brother returned to Konoha and he ended up on the receiving end of another traumatic experience. Ultimately, it was these things which made him leave for power."

Naruto had a sympathetic mood, "If you had trained him, he still would've left this village in order to find his brother. Only, it would've happened after he gained that power."

Jiraiya stretched his arm, "Maybe, but I guess we'll never know."

Naruto stood up, giving a despondent sigh, "It's odd the amount of mistakes that will occur, yet people refuse to learn from them." He smiled, "Someone once told me that our history is there to teach us a lesson. Nonetheless, the only pages being added are those written in blood."

Jiraiya agreed with what he said, wondering whose care he was brought up under. It appeared he had turned into a fine man but the frog hermit didn't know who was responsible. He quickly spoke as Naruto was about to leave, "Why do you have an interest in Sasuke?"

Naruto turned his back, "I have my reasons." He walked away from the novelist as he entered the centre of the hall.

Looking towards the ceiling, Naruto paid no attention to the bright lights as they shone on his face. He didn't expect much when first coming to Konoha but he had made a friend and was also interested in other individuals. This wasn't a good thing as he couldn't afford any distractions whatsoever. He observed the many people as they laughed and glided across the dance floor. He was entranced by the spectacle as the floor beneath him glistened, enhancing the already beautiful scene.

"Ino, don't even try and do that!" Naruto was alerted as he heard the shout of the kunoichi. Sakura was speaking to her friend as they walked in his direction while Tenten quietly followed.

Ino laughed, "Why not?"

Tenten scratched her head, "Sakura, you sound jealous."

Sakura stopped; addressing the weapon's specialist in a defensive tone of voice, "I'm not…what do you care?"

Tenten shrugged as they all reached Naruto. The Uzumaki wasn't his usual bright self as he just stared at them, confused, "What?"

Tenten raised an eyebrow as Ino spoke in a luring tone, "Can you dance?"

Naruto scratched his head, "I've tried it once." He noticed the displeased expression on Sakura's face.

Ino grabbed his hand, "Would you like to?"

Naruto stared at Sakura momentarily, unknowingly attracting her attention. The pink haired woman retorted in an angry voice, "What are you looking at me for? Do you want my approval?"

Naruto snapped out of his daze instantly, "Huh? No!" He was embarrassed with his actions but quickly thought of a good reply, "Two women are always better than one."

Sakura was speechless as Tenten grabbed her and took her off the dance floor, before she showed her frightening rage. Ino waved at the two kunoichi leaving the dance floor. She turned her attention to Naruto, "Shall we?"

Naruto placed his hands on the girl's hips as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Ino placed her head on his shoulder, relaxing herself. She liked the firm touch of his body.

Naruto enjoyed the fragrance emanating from the blonde beauty. He guided her through the dance as the music was slow in rhythm. The touch of Ino's skin sent a wave of pleasure down his back as he held her a little tighter. The response was a congenial groan as the jinchuuriki smiled.

The band playing the music seemed enthralled in their own personal magic as they began to augment the pace. The strikes on the violin could be heard getting more rapid and louder as the couples on the dance floor separated slightly.

Ino moved back as she clasped her hands with Naruto while he rested his free hand on her hips. Naruto liked the dance as he was expecting no such thing when coming to the festive event. He grinned at Ino before twisting her, but was caught unaware as he saw Yuka in her place.

The twirling of black hair and scarlet eyes gazing back at him made him stop the dance completely. Ino was shocked by the sudden action as Naruto began blinking. He sighed as he shook his head, "I'm sorry."

Ino felt minutely disturbed with what had happened, "Is everything alright?"

Naruto took a deep breath before noticing the Godaime rising from her seat. He saw the Tsuchikage also stand with her, as they began to make their way to the exit of the huge hall. The only other person going with them was Tsunade's assistant, Shizune. Naruto turned to the gorgeous woman with him, "I'm going to have to call it a day. I loved it while it lasted."

Ino nodded, not saying anything in return as she saw the man leave the dance floor and out of sight.

XXXXXXXXXX

Sasuke looked into the water below, its still presence humbling. The green plants breaking the surface were like speckles, as the moon and star's reflections were visible. He brushed his hair before placing his arms on the stone barrier, the cold surface sending a shiver through his body. He ignored the feeling as he moved his head upwards and stared at the moon. Jiraiya's words had made him think a lot about where he had ended up. He had never blamed the novelist and was shocked to find the man feeling regret. In the end, the Uchiha wanted to keep his burden to himself.

There was an undisturbed silence where he stood as no one else was present. He enjoyed the soothing atmosphere as the glass doors behind him were opened. The sound of the celebrating people was short lived, as there was a creaking sound and the doors were closed again.

Naruto slowly walked to the barricade, his footsteps penetrating the quiet air. As he reached the carved stone barrier, he rested against it. He remained quiet, not saying anything. Instead, he enjoyed the sound of the water below.

Sasuke was surprised to see the blonde, but kept his thoughts to himself as he began to stare at the night sky again. Naruto started to laugh, causing the man near him to gape at him. His laughter continued until it became uncontrollable. Sasuke was in disbelief and didn't understand why he was laughing so much.

Naruto finally stopped, "Its funny, isn't it?"

Sasuke eventually answered, "What are you on about?"

Naruto's crimson eyes held the reflection of the moon, "How hate can affect someone."

Sasuke directed his attention to the water again and remained silent. He didn't feel like striking a conversation or participating in one.

Naruto's tone took a more serious turn, "When I was younger, I had no one. A person is weakest when he doesn't understand who he is…what his purpose is…why everything is the way it is."

Sasuke continued listening to the man as the water below seemed devoid of life.

Naruto sighed, "I used to question why I was in so much pain. Why was it that everyone else had a chance to be happy except me? Why was I the only one alone? It felt as if my existence was my poison."

Sasuke gritted his teeth as he controlled his temper, "Why are you telling me this?"

Naruto looked towards the man, "At that time, you were the one who made me feel better about myself." Sasuke was speechless as he heard him, "It felt good to know there was someone else like me…but at the same time, it was troubling that more people had to feel what I was feeling."

Sasuke shook his head, "Are you finished?"

Naruto put his hands in his pocket, "I looked up to you. I wanted to be like you; to have everyone's respect, their admiration…their acknowledgment." He walked to the side of the balcony and jumped on top of it, "I used to see you all the time at that pier. I felt that was when I really saw the true Uchiha Sasuke." He spoke in a tranquil one, "You probably don't even know what I'm talking about."

Sasuke kept himself from speaking, a confusing feeling running through him. The truth was, he did remember the incidents at the pier and he fully understood what he was trying to say.

Naruto said his last words, "I know what you did…I don't hate you for it." He jumped to the grass below before vanishing.

Sasuke sighed as he registered what had just happened in his mind. He couldn't explain it, but he felt a little more comfortable with his position. Staring back into the unmoving water below, he was taken by surprise as a fish jumped out before splashing back down.

XXXXXXXXXX

Yuka wrapped the cloak around herself. She stared through the window of Naruto's house as the snow continued to drop. The land was enveloped in the cold particles. Yuka touched the window, a cold feeling running through her fingers. She stared at the white sky, "It was a day like this…"

Flashback

Yuka ran onto the field, shivering from the cold. She had been asked by Naruto to meet her at their usual place as the snow continued to fall on her. She had been training and didn't bother using a coat or jacket. She stopped as she saw the back of Naruto, slightly panting. It had been about a month since the Uzumaki had been rescued from Akatsuki. Unfortunately, the death of Yuudai was still hard-pressed on his mind.

Naruto turned around as he heard Yuka arrive but was surprised when he saw her. Her arms were exposed to the harsh cold and her cheeks were red. He quickly took off his cloak before placing it around her, "Why did you come here like this?"

Yuka grinned at him before kissing him on his cheek, "I was in a hurry."

Naruto's body went through a great change as it felt the cold after being warm for so long. He moved away from Yuka, towards the edge of the cliff top, "I have something important to tell you."

Yuka hugged the cloak as it brought her warmth, "What is it?"

Naruto held out his hand to her, waiting for her to come to him. Yuka walked forwards and placed her hand in his as he spoke, "I can't be with you anymore."

Yuka's eyes showed her surprise as she heard him utter those fateful words. Her heart seemed to be breaking as she looked at him, "Wait…"

Naruto shook his head, a tear in his eyes, "Please don't…it's hard enough as it is."

Yuka sighed, "So, I can't even ask why?"

Naruto turned around and stared at the snow falling to the ground, "I promise you, there will come a time when we're here again."

Yuka was confused by what he was saying, "If you still love me, then why are you doing this?"

Naruto gave a dejected sigh, "I don't want to hurt you…"

End Flashback

Yuka opened the door and walked outside; she understood everything now. Naruto must have found out about his condition during that time. She couldn't believe he tried to fight it on his own without even asking her. She would have been willing to help him to the best of her ability.

She made sure she had everything as she was planning on leaving for Konoha. The snow continued to drop as she walked through the encampment. As she reached the base of the hill whereupon so many memorable events had occurred, someone shouted out to her.

"Yuka-san!" A kunoichi appeared in front of her.

Yuka looked at the woman, recognising her as one of the squad members who was sent to Wave Country, "You're back?"

The kunoichi nodded, "The rest of the group is resting but I had to report to you right away."

Yuka acknowledged her disposition, "What did you find?"

The woman gripped something in her hand tightly, "We checked the mine like you ordered. It was demolished, no one survived."

Yuka's eyes widened, "Do you know who did it?"

The kunoichi nodded, "One of the perpetrators was caught in a rock slide. We retrieved his forehead protector." She handed the item to Yuka.

Yuka turned the forehead protector in her hands before observing the insignia engraved into it. She felt her heart skip a beat as a terrible foreboding entered her, "Iwa…"

The kunoichi replied, "We were surprised too. Something's not right, I feel as if we're all in danger."

Yuka closed her eyes as she spoke in a firm tone of voice, "I want you to personally return to the homeland and inform Hideaki-sama of this. Before that, I need you to tell every one to leave this place. I feel we're not going to be alone much longer." Yuka gripped her sword hilt, "He hasn't changed; he still wants revenge."

The kunoichi nodded before asking one last question, "Do you really think Iwa would attack us?"

Yuka turned her attention to the woman, "Hurry up and carry out my orders! Don't just stand here!"

The kunoichi instantly vanished as Yuka feared for the worst, knowing she wouldn't be able to help Naruto now. Her duty lied with the encampment and this was the time where she would be able to judge for herself; whether she was a good choice for being a leader or not.

XXXXXXXXXX

Kakashi continued searching through the hall, not capable of finding Naruto. He stopped walking as he wondered where he could have gone. The Tsuchikage and Hokage had already left, along with Shizune. The Hatake wasn't sure as to why he had such a weird feeling within him, but he was desperate to find Naruto. He was usually not the one to make mistakes, though it seemed to him as if he had overlooked something.

"Kakashi, my rival!" Gai grabbed the man from his shoulder, "I have been looking for you!"

Kakashi didn't pay any attention to the enigmatic man, "That's great Gai."

Gai stopped himself from stumbling before folding his arms, "You look to be occupied."

Kakashi spotted Sakura as he began making his way towards her while Gai followed him. The jounin wanted to gather this team and find Naruto, since he didn't like the fact how most of the shinobi were congregated in the hall for the celebration. The best opportunity to attempt something would indisputably be now.

Sakura didn't notice her former teacher walking towards her. She had, for the most part, enjoyed the celebration as it was a welcome break from the normal duties of a ninja. The most amusing occurrence had been when she found her friend left on the dance floor by Naruto. She didn't like the fact they were dancing but she enjoyed the outcome.

"Sakura…" Kakashi looked around the hall as he addressed the woman.

"Yes?" The kunoichi had a polite tone, a trait she showed rarely.

Kakashi had a serious demeanour, "Have you seen Sasuke?"

Sakura shook her head, "Not for a while."

Kakashi seemed to be deep in thought as Gai realised his strange character, "Something's wrong."

"We'll have to leave him; let's go Sakura." Kakashi felt the need to be as quick as possible.

Sakura refrained from following, "What's going on?"

Kakashi looked back, "We have to find the Godaime and Naruto."

Gai raised an eyebrow as he heard Naruto's name mentioned, interested in the situation. "I'll gather my team too."

Sakura nodded as she followed Kakashi while Gai headed in the opposite direction to collect his team.

XXXXXXXXXX

Naruto climbed the wall, making sure he was incapable of being seen as he jumped towards the ledge of the window. He looked inside and entered, seeing as no one present. He sighed, "Where are you Genkei? I can't find these rooms by myself."

"You called?" Naruto nearly jumped as he heard the dragon.

"You're here." He felt anxious and nervous, "We need to get the scroll first. It was in a library."

Genkei nodded, "I have the scent of books."

The two ran spontaneously ran down the hallway. The building seemed deserted as they ascended a floor. Naruto realised it must have been because of most ninjas being at the celebration. They came to a halt in front of large doors which Naruto was familiar with.

"This is where it's coming from." He looked towards Naruto for confirmation.

Naruto nodded, "Yeah…this is it." He walked forwards and pushed the doors open, the sight of numerous shelves of books and scrolls coming into view. He smirked as he entered and turned to where he had seen the forbidden scroll. His face changed from one of hope to utter disbelief and shock, "No…no…"

Genkei turned to the stand which he was staring at to find nothing there, "Don't tell me…"

Naruto had a pained look on his face as he rushed to the stand and looked around it, "Where is it?" His worried state caused him to trip the wires in place.

The blonde began observing the shelves of books as he jumped towards them and started throwing them out. He continued piling the books on the floor as Genkei felt a wave of guilt and remorse cloud his mind. The dragon hissed as steam exited his nostrils, "We're not giving up yet. Come on Naruto, let's go get that crystal. We'll make them tell us where the scroll is."

Naruto landed on the ground as he clenched his fists, "Shit!" He looked at the stand a second time, noticing the dishevelled wires, "There's going to be a horde of shinobi here soon."

XXXXXXXXXX

Tsunade walked down the corridor towards her office as Shizune accompanied her, along with Hajin. The Godaime wasn't feeling well and left the celebration earlier than she had initially planned. She had liked the food at the event, especially the ramen which was luscious. Her hand in was in her pocket, holding the recently acquired crystal tightly.

"Tsunade-sama, are you sure you're feeling well?" Shizune had a concerned voice. She also didn't like how they were being followed by Hajin.

Tsunade spoke in a slightly delirious voice, "Of course…" She was feeling a little dizzy but she was sure that she hadn't drunk too much sake.

Hajin spoke in a calm manner, "It was a good event."

Shizune laughed forcibly, "It was very entertaining."

Hajin closed his eyes as he continued walking, "The greatest surprise always happens at the end."

Tsunade didn't like the way in which the man spoke as Shizune turned around, only to be met with a hard strike in her neck. The woman slowly collapsed to the ground as Tsunade prepared to defend herself.

However, she was too late as Hajin slammed her into the wall before tapping her on her forehead, "Shinsoushinri Fuuin!"

A black seal flashed across the woman's forehead as her eyes turned white and she fell to the ground. Hajin bent down and took out the crystal from her pocket. He stared at it, mesmerised as it began to glow. "This is the crystal of legend." He smiled before noticing the necklace on the Godaime's neck. He grabbed it, observing it for a brief moment, "It has lost its power."

Hajin stood up before taking off his hat and brushing back his red hair. He put on his hat again as four shinobi appeared near him. He looked towards them as they silently made their way closer to him.

"Have you got it?" He talked to the Titans of Iwa as one of them nodded, showing him the huge scroll on his back. Hajin had a pleased look on his face, "Excellent."

The five ninja's disappeared from the corridors of the mansion as Tsunade and Shizune lay across the ground, motionless.

XXXXXXXXXX

Naruto and Genkei rushed through the passageways of the Godaime's mansion, their footsteps thunderous in sound. As they ascended a flight of stairs, Naruto felt as if he was going to be sick. He had waited for this moment for 2 years and it couldn't have been going worse than it already was. He began shooting through the hallway at an extremely fast pace before two bodies became visible.

Genkei came to a stop in front of the Godaime and Shizune. He analysed them before speaking, "They're alive."

Naruto looked at their fragile states, wondering what could have happened. "Why is everything messing up?"

Genkei looked at Naruto, "The crystal?"

Naruto was put into action by the dragon's words as he crouched down next to Tsunade and checked her pockets. As his hands grasped nothing but air, he gritted his teeth. He tried his hardest to not let any tears to fall from his eyes but was unsuccessful, "I don't believe this."

Genkei looked at the forehead of the Godaime, noticing the seal, "It must have been Hajin…" The dragon was puzzled as he was sure it could have only been him. However, he didn't understand what was happening and why.

Naruto paid no attention as he punched the ground, his tears splashing on the cold, hard surface, "That was my last chance!" He let out a roar of anger, "MY LAST CHANCE!" A red chakra began to seep from his body.

Genkei noticed the delicate condition of his friend as he quickly spoke, "Control yourself!"

Naruto bit into his lips with his teeth, drawing blood as he felt a sickening sensation in his stomach. He let out a gasp of pain as blood fell from his mouth to the floor. An overwhelming pain engulfed him as he rolled onto his back and clutched his stomach. "I can't take this anymore!"

Genkei observed the condition of the jinchuuriki as he ran to his side and grabbed his hand. Naruto's shirt was ripped as there were claw marks on his belly, no doubt from him attempting to claw his own stomach out. "Don't give up…not now."

Naruto stared into the eyes of Genkei as he could feel his body becoming numb. The ceiling of the corridor seemed so far away, as it became distorted and started to twist into all fashions of shapes. The tears on his face slowly trickled down to the ground as he felt his heart aching, like someone was clutching it with all their strength.

He had discovered the fact he was losing himself to the Kyuubi 2 years ago and had made it his life's ambition to kill the demon fox. In order to do that, he would first have to cure himself. His dreams seemed to become distant as he wondered how much further he would be able to resist Kyuubi's influence and stay alive.

Genkei noticed Naruto's eyes slowly closing as he quietly spoke, "Don't lose to him Naruto, you hear me."

The words of Genkei seemed to bounce off the invisible walls of Naruto's mind, as they repeatedly passed through his senses. Everything vanished as the world turned black.

Shinsoushinri Fuuin - Psyche Seal

Author Notes: What did i say? Also, this is only the tip of the iceberg as far as plot goes. So many questions must be on your mind; why did Hajin do what he did and what does he hope to accomplish? What's going to happen to Yuka and the encampment? What the hell is the homeland of the Confederation? What's going to happen to Naruto? And when are you going to reveal his past? All this and more. You will find out soon enough, the answer to some of these questions. I will see you all again next time.