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: There's so much left to write, i sometimes wonder whether i'll be able to include it all. Time for another chapter, enjoy.

Chapter 25: Astounding Reunion

Genkei halted, his scales glinting as the sun appeared. They had been running throughout the night without stopping. Team 7 was tired along with the dragon himself. It had been a long journey but they were finally at their destination; the coast of the Waterfall Country.

Sakura was bent over, clutching her knees, "What now?" She was breathing heavily, "Where do we go from here?"

Kakashi was also tired but he tried not to show it. Team 7 had been active for the past several days and they hadn't got an opportunity to rest. His legs felt like they were burning.

Genkei sighed, "We wait until your friend comes."

Kakashi placed Naruto down, on the sand. The beach they were at was secluded and seemed to be hidden. Along each side were rocks before the forest started. Then to the other side was the rest of the beach.

"He should've caught up by now." Sakura wiped the sweat from her forehead.

Kakashi walked over to a rock and sat down, "We told him the North of Waterfall Country. The coast runs for miles, he could be at any point."

Genkei approached Naruto, noticing that he was sweating profusely. His body temperature was increasing. It was evident that the situation wasn't positive by the flashing seal on his stomach.

"The Confederation exists." Kakashi's voice was blunt.

Genkei answered without facing him, "What you think you know, forget it. Myths and legends don't paint an accurate picture."

Kakashi nodded, "But there is some truth to them."

Sakura listened to the conversation, having heard of the Confederation herself at times. She didn't used to pay it attention though; due to the fact she thought it was silly.

A shadow formed over Kakashi, causing him to look back. On top of the rocks was his fellow sharingan user. Sasuke was visibly weary, much like everyone else. He jumped down from the high position, careful not to slip on any of the rocks.

Genkei was glad that he didn't have to wait long. Without saying anything, he walked into the sea until it covered his legs. He bent down onto one knee and placed his hand in the water. He was covered in a shroud of chakra and began sending pulses through the water. Team 7 didn't say anything, simply watching the scene.

After several minutes, a rumbling could be heard. Genkei stood up, pleased with the results, "It's time to leave."

Sasuke had his eyes on the horizon, where something could be seen rushing through the water, "What did you do?"

Sakura noticed the phenomenon; there was something in the water and it was coming towards them. Whatever it was, it was humongous. "I don't like this."

The shape travelling through the sea vanished for a few seconds before erupting out. Sakura let out a gasp while Sasuke kept his hand on the hilt of his sword.

Genkei waited for the water to fall, getting a better view of the beast in front of him. "Tatsuyoshi, it is good to see you."

The beast was huge compared to the Dragon King, towering over the landscape. His magnificent blue scales blended with the sea while his teeth fell over his lips. "Genkei-sama, it has been some time."

"He answers to you?" Sakura's mouth was open in disbelief. "Look at the difference."

"Silence girl. How dare you show such disrespect to my King?" Tatsuyoshi's voice was gruff and frightening.

Genkei waved it off, "Calm down, I don't have time to hear this. We need to go to the homeland."

Tatsuyoshi observed Team 7, clearly wondering why they were coming along. However, he knew there was no need to ask questions. "I understand."

Genkei walked back to Naruto and picked him up. He proceeded by jumping to the top of the large beast's head and placing Naruto in a comfortable position. Team 7 were slightly hesitant, not wanting to do anything which may cause trouble. Genkei recognised their attitude, "Do you want to come along or not?"

Sasuke moved forward but was halted by Tatsuyoshi's action. The gigantic dragon put his head down in the water and turned around, exposing his upper back. "You have not proven yourself capable of riding on my head."

Sasuke ignored the dragon and jumped onto his back, followed by Kakashi and Sakura. The kunoichi was less than amused, "He obviously doesn't know how to treat a woman."

Tatsuyoshi flattened himself into the sea, his long smooth body stretching out. Within seconds, he was off at a fast speed. Sakura fell over while Kakashi and Sasuke steadied themselves.

Genkei sat next to an unconscious Naruto, speaking in a whisper, "You're nearly home. I'll get you fixed up."

Kakashi watchfully moved along the back of the huge beast, in order to speak with Genkei. Nearing the King, he heard a growl from the beast he was riding. He realised he had gotten very close to stepping onto its head. Tatsuyoshi's eyes were turned back, looking at the Hatake.

Kakashi cleared his throat and remained where he was, joined by the rest of his team. "Where is the homeland?"

Genkei didn't take his eyes off the sea as it rushed by, "You should be able to see it."

Kakashi didn't understand the summon but was patted on his shoulder by Sakura. The kunoichi's face had lost all colour, "It's…"

Sasuke's shock was displayed also. He couldn't believe the scene in front of him, thinking it had to be a mistake.

Kakashi turned his head to face the horizon. He was rendered speechless, seeing a column of water ascending from the water to the clouds high above. It was evidently a dangerous area, even from so far away. The cyclone like structure loomed like the shadow of death; the spinning water an amazing spectacle.

XXXXXXXXXX

Naruto shook his head, trying to get the fresh images of Yuudai out of his mind. It pained him to see the man again, because it wasn't real. Standing up, he turned his back, "I'm not doing this."

"Why?" Light picked up the cigarette Naruto had dropped, "Are you afraid of your own life? You're going to keep on running until you die?"

"What do you know?" Naruto shouted, his teeth glaring.

Light flicked the cigarette out of his hand, "More than you think." He smiled, "Take it one step at a time. Who knows, maybe revisiting some of the better times of your life will help you."

Naruto closed his eyes, "Let me out of this place, please."

"You're the only one who can do that." Light grinned and started walking towards the second door.

"Hey, are you listening to me?" Naruto's voice was ignored, forcing him to follow the young boy. He arrived at the second door, but made sure he wasn't too close to it. "I want to get out of here."

Light shook his head, "I'm sorry; can't help you with that." He nodded towards the door of light, "Now, walk inside.

Naruto was gritting his teeth, staring at the door. The bright light was hurtful; he had tried to escape his past for so long but now he was being forced to confront it. With clenched fists he passed through the door, a tingling sensation overcoming him.

Naruto had finally turned 12 years old, but the day itself didn't mean anything. His last two birthdays in the encampment had gone in a similar fashion. The years were passing and he didn't realise it. Luckily though, he spent the last two years better than he had his first. Ever since the revelation about him having the Kyuubi inside him, he made it an ambition to differentiate himself from the demon. He was his own person, one who didn't need defining by the thing he contained.

He knew no one would approach him about training so he asked them instead. It was hard at first due to many people not having time. However, he soon started helping out around the encampment to make time. He didn't really know anyone since they would be gone after a month, and he wouldn't see them again until it was their time to return from the homeland.

The feeling of loneliness was there but it wasn't as big of a concern now. He didn't have someone to talk to but he did spend time with the various shinobi that would come. His skills had been bettered; basic combat, weapons training and chakra control. He was still a long way from being a shinobi but he was making progress. This fact had made him smile more often.

The thoughts of Konoha were fading and he was beginning to accept his new life. Unfortunately, Yuudai wasn't the most open of people. He would regularly sit around Naruto, reading his book, while the jinchuuriki trained. Days would come and go in this routine.

Naruto was currently practicing his fighting skills, using the tree as a punching bag. He had placed a padding of sorts on its front.

"Naruto."

"What is it Yuudai-san?" Naruto looked towards the new arrival.

Yuudai had his mask on, "Do you want to come with me?"

Naruto raised his eyebrow, astonished by the invitation. He hadn't left the encampment in 2 years and would be more than happy to go somewhere. He hesitated however, "Why ask now?"

"Um, no reason." His voice said otherwise.

Naruto realised that the man was truly terrible at communicating with others. It was as if he couldn't speak about anything normal. "When do we go?" Naruto was excited.

Yuudai put his hand on his sword hilt, "Now."

Yuudai started running, causing Naruto to stumble. The blonde picked up the pace and followed the shinobi. They soon left the encampment and were on their path. Naruto constantly screamed for the man to slow down but he wouldn't. After a while, he was incapable of shouting due to his exhaustion. The hours passed by before they came to a clearing.

Naruto was panting, falling to the ground, "Why didn't we take a break?"

"This will help with your stamina. In the end, it was beneficial." Yuudai stared over the canyons.

"Whatever you say." Naruto spat on the ground and stood up.

Yuudai looked back, "Follow me. We're nearly there."

The ninja jumped off the hill and landed on the hard baked ground. Naruto also jumped, but was struck with something in mid air. He was sent flying, a scream escaping his mouth. Everything seemed to slow down as he watched himself fall into one of the plunges. He put out his hands, scratching against the side of the rock. His hands were becoming bloodied, before he finally latched on. Gulping, he looked down to see the fall. Taking a deep breath, he began to climb.

The sounds of a battle could be heard overhead while Naruto climbed as fast as he could. They had been attacked but by who? His hands were sore after all the climbing as he finally reached the top. He was fatigued, surprising himself by the fact he was able to climb back up. He looked towards the group of people; 4 shinobi were surrounding Yuudai.

Yuudai looked like he was trapped, a sword placed at his neck while someone held him. Another one of the shinobi was holding out their hand in his face and the remaining ninja looked on.

Naruto took off instantly, not thinking of what he was doing. He rushed towards the one who had his hand in Yuudai's face.

"Didn't I take care of that brat?" Nin's voice was full of surprise. "Gen, stop him."

Gen remained in his position, observing the scene, "He's a kid."

Nin held up his free hand towards Naruto. However before he could form any seals, Yuudai grabbed his wrist. Naruto let out a battle cry and launched himself at the man, punching him across the face.

Yuudai quickly took advantage of the situation, kicking Nin in his stomach. The Titan was propelled backwards because of the power. Yuudai followed by taking out his sword from it's cover, slamming the hilt into the woman holding him. He then avoided the blade placed at his neck by ducking underneath it. Rolling away from the Titans, he ended up next to Naruto. But before he could continue, a shout echoed through the area.

"That's enough!" The Tsuchikage was standing with his advisor. The Titans disappeared as Hajin walked towards Yuudai. "I have been expecting you."

Yuudai sheathed his sword, "Does every one of your guests receive such a welcome, Hajin?"

Hajin held his hat to stop it from flying away; a strong wind was blowing. "They were excited to meet you. I have heard you will be leading the encampment in another year."

Yuudai ignored the Tsuchikage, "They nearly killed the boy. Had that happened, you would have been short 4 shinobi."

Hajin laughed, "They can get carried away. Who is this with you?"

Naruto brushed the dirt off his clothes and stood up. He was surprised to hear Yuudai speak up for him. Though he knew he was supposed to be protected, it was weird hearing him say that. He faced the Tsuchikage, "Uzumaki Naruto, remember the name."

Hajin turned around and led the way to Iwa, "I will."

Naruto and Yuudai followed the Tsuchikage and his advisor to the Hidden Village of Earth Country. Naruto was thrilled since he hadn't been to a busy place in a long time. He started running to the sides of streets and eyeing up stalls. He couldn't control himself, happy to be in a bustling location.

Yuudai called the boy to himself, pointing at the man behind him, "He'll stay with you until I've finished some business here."

Naruto didn't get a chance to respond as Hajin and Yuudai disappeared amongst the crowd. The blonde looked at Tenjou, "So…what's your name?"

Tenjou tried to flatten his hair, "Tenjou. I already know yours since you shouted it out."

Naruto grinned, rubbing his nose, "I'm going to be great someday, you should be excited."

"Is there anything in particular that you would like to do?" Tenjou had decided to ignore his boasting.

Naruto got into his thinking stance; legs apart and a finger on his chin, "I wouldn't mind relaxing somewhere." His body was tired from his activity throughout the whole day.

Tenjou motioned for him to follow, "I know just the place."

Naruto tried hard not to get pushed along with the crowd, staying close to Tenjou. His hands were slightly bloody and aching. After several minutes, the duo escaped the rush of the market and ended up in a quieter location. They stopped in front of the opening to the hot springs. Tenjou spoke with the woman at the entrance before taking Naruto inside.

Naruto was led to the men's side of the hot springs. Tenjou stopped at the door of the changing rooms, "Once you're finished, come back outside. I'll be waiting here."

Naruto scratched his head, "You're not coming inside?"

"There is no need." Tenjou handed Naruto a towel.

Naruto shrugged and walked inside the room, quickly discarding his clothes. He wrapped the towel around his waist before entering the hot springs. The temperature took a sudden rise, already satisfying him.

He took off his towel, sitting inside the hot water. He leaned back against the tiles, the warmth surrounding him. He enjoyed the feeling, closing his eyes in peace. It was then he could hear the water splashing. Opening his eyes, he looked in the direction from where it came.

He discerned a wooden gate, knowing it separated the men and the women. He could hear someone washing themselves on the other side of the gate. Suddenly, a tint of red appeared across his cheeks when he realised the woman would be naked. He slapped himself, trying to shake away the impure thoughts. But as much as he tried, the thought was imprinted on his mind. Standing up, he covered himself with the towel.

He silently approached the wooden gate, looking for a hole. It wasn't long before he found one and tried to look through it. He could make out the figure of a woman but it wasn't clear. He moved back, shaking his head and wondering what he was doing. This wasn't like him; maybe the steam was getting to him. He turned around and made a move to leave but was halted.

"Seen enough?" A black haired girl of 16 years was looking at him from over the fence.

Naruto's eyes widened, "Wait, I didn't know what I…"

He wasn't given a chance to finish as the girl dropped behind the fence and kicked it hardly. The wooden gate thundered into Naruto, slamming him into the water. A gurgling sound could be heard before Naruto snapped out of the water. He was breathing heavily, clutching his arm. "That hurt."

The Uzumaki looked around but found the girl was gone. Sighing at his own stupidity, he got out of the water and changed back into his normal clothes. He exited the changing rooms to find Tenjou standing exactly like before.

Tenjou looked back, "You're done?"

Naruto nodded, embarrassed about what had just transpired. He didn't mention anything about it though, "Can we get something to eat?"

Tenjou and Naruto left the hot springs but their plans were cut short when Yuudai was found waiting for them. The shinobi nodded at Tenjou who took his leave.

Naruto watched the Tsuchikage's advisor depart. "Yuudai-san, what's going on?"

Yuudai folded his arms, "I'm done here. We're going home."

Naruto had a disappointed expression, "But we just arrived. And I'm hungry."

"Fine, we'll get something to eat and then we'll leave."

Naruto grinned, "That's better." He walked ahead of Yuudai.

"Naruto." Yuudai's call made the jinchuuriki instantly stop.

"What?" Naruto had a questioning look.

"Back there, why did you get involved?" Yuudai was without emotion.

Naruto shook his head, knowing he was talking of their fight outside of Iwa, "We're a team, right? And you looked like you needed help."

Yuudai stared at the blonde for a while before walking, "That was stupid. If you charge in against everyone you meet without thinking, you'll be dead sooner than later. Next time, don't do anything like that."

Naruto was stunned by the man's words, not expecting such a response. He thought the ninja would have been grateful for some help, but clearly he was wrong. With a heavy heart, he followed Yuudai.

Naruto opened his eyes, realising he was lying on the ground. "It's over?"

"Yes. It wasn't that hard, was it?" Light had his hands on the top of his head.

Naruto sat up, "…I want to see more." He had an urge to relive the past, to see what he used to have. It was more comforting than the reality he actually lived in.

XXXXXXXXXX

Tsunade was back in her normal attire, walking through the corridors of her mansion. She had left the hospital in the morning due to feeling a lot better. She was ready to get back to work and find out the current situation. Reaching her office, she entered without hesitation. She looked around to find no one present, closing the door behind her.

It was still the same it had been since her last visit. Approaching her desk, she took a seat in her chair. Resting her head against the top, she sighed heavily. She had asked one of the attendants at the hospital to find Jiraiya. She was wondering whether she did or not.

Her thoughts would soon be answered with a knock on the side of the window. The Godaime looked to her side to find the frog hermit. Jiraiya stepped onto the floor, surprised by how quick the blonde had recovered. "You really want to know what happened."

Tsunade opened her desk drawer, searching for certain items. She found her personal bottle of sake and a cup. Pouring herself some, she drank it, "I'm the Hokage. It is my duty to know."

Jiraiya observed her actions, inwardly shaking his head, "Where should I start?"

"Just tell me everything." Tsunade didn't want to beat around the bush.

Jiraiya nodded, speaking, "The Tsuchikage has taken the crystal and the forbidden scroll. Naruto was captured but escaped soon after. Right now, Team 7 is on his trail to bring him back."

Tsunade clutched her forehead, "Do you know why?"

Jiraiya sighed, "We don't know anything yet."

Tsunade was displeased with the information, pouring herself another cup of sake. Jiraiya knew she wouldn't ask anymore questions and made a move to leave. "Jiraiya…"

Jiraiya was surprised to hear her call him by his name; something was definitely not right. "What?"

"Do you think your life could've gone differently?" Tsunade sounded grim.

Jiraiya closed his eyes; he was expecting this conversation at some point. "Ninjas don't lead the best of lives."

Tsunade let out an amused grunt, "You're dodging the question."

Jiraiya cleared his throat, "We're growing old. When our time passes, another generation will take over. There's no point lamenting, we should try and give meaning to what we're doing."

Tsunade looked up at the frog hermit, having not expected a deep reply. The novelist would always avoid personal questions and keep his feelings bottled up. But this time, he looked to be speaking from his heart.

"I know what I have to do." He remembered Naruto and his condition, "There is still someone who needs me." He walked towards the window, "And in their time of darkness, your people will need you."

Tsunade sighed, brushing her hair back. She picked up the cup of sake and gulped it down. There was so much she needed to know but where to find the answers.

XXXXXXXXXX

Light questioned Naruto, "Why the sudden interest?"

"Wasn't this what you wanted?" Naruto took out another cigarette and lit it.

They continued walking up the squares of light towards the third door. The young boy was leading the way while Naruto followed close behind.

"It is, but I wonder if you really understand what you will have to see." Light had a calm voice.

Naruto blew some smoke out of his mouth, "I guess we'll find out."

They came to a stop in front of the third door before Light faced Naruto, "Yes we will."

Naruto didn't need any telling, walking into the light of the passageway. He was wondering what he would experience next.

Naruto twirled the kunai in his hand while sitting at the edge of the cliff. It had been over a week since he had returned from Iwa with Yuudai. The nights were hard for him as he kept wondering why Yuudai was so cold to him. He had helped him but received no gratitude. He hadn't seen the man for a while now; he wasn't in the encampment.

"Is this where you always are now?" Yuudai walked onto the cliff top while taking off his mask.

Naruto was always taken by surprise by the shinobi. He would appear at the most inopportune of times. "What does it matter to you?"

Yuudai took a seat on the soft grass, next to Naruto, "I don't know."

"Why do you do that?" Naruto faced the older man.

Yuudai was confused, "Do what?"

Naruto diverted his attention to the horizon, "Always acting like you don't understand others."

Yuudai was silent for a few moments before gazing at the sea, "I'm not acting."

"You don't understand when you hurt someone? You don't know what they feel? Have you been like this with everyone in your life?" Naruto spoke fast.

Yuudai scratched his head, "I've spent more time with you than anyone else."

Naruto was silenced by his words, finding them hard to believe. He hadn't spent a huge amount of time with the man. Sure, he would sit around when he was training sometimes but they hadn't spoken very often.

Yuudai continued, "I'm a shinobi. My duty is my mission…not spending time trying to understand others."

Naruto shook his head, "Don't you feel lonely?"

"It has always been like this. Why would I feel lonely? I've never experienced the opposite." Yuudai sounded amused.

Naruto calmly spoke, "Haven't you ever wanted things to be different?"

Yuudai looked at the boy, "Do you?"

Naruto didn't answer, simply sighing and gazing at the vast sea. How could he explain his feelings to someone who didn't understand his own?

Yuudai leaned back, supporting his weight with his hands, "I've been to the homeland over the past week. The reason I wanted to speak with you was concerning that in particular and your actions in Iwa."

Naruto felt his anger rise, was he about to get told off again?

"What you did was reckless but…it also showed courage. That is why I have requested you for special instruction."

Naruto raised an eyebrow, "I'm going to be trained?"

Yuudai nodded, "Not here though. The training you will be given is rare and few people of the Confederation ever have this honour. For this you will be sent to the homeland, and study under Hideaki-sama."

Naruto stood up, "Really? This is great! What's it like?"

Yuudai looked at the blonde, "It's a 3 step programme to train your mind, body and spirit."

"Huh?" Naruto was obviously confused by his explanation.

"Each of these 3 parts is vital to a shinobi's strength. The mind focuses on a person's emotions and his concentration; using the power of your brain that the majority of people don't bother with. It will help you with many things."

Naruto was laughing, "That sounds so cool. What about the other two?"

Yuudai closed his eyes, "If you are able to pass the first step then the other two will be explained. I'll be taking you there tomorrow."

Naruto forgot everything else, exuberated by the thought that he was finally going to receive some real training.

Naruto walked out of the light, his cigarette burning brightly. He took it out of his mouth, a smile across his face, "I remember that. I was so happy to finally be trained."

Light started walking to the next door, "Not everything you see will fill you with happiness."

XXXXXXXXXX

Tatsuyoshi swam across the sea, his speed incredible. The rough waves weren't a bother to the dragon; he manoeuvred around them. He was completely focused on where he was going. The cyclone like structure was now a lot closer and its size became apparent. You couldn't see past its front due to the enormity.

Genkei had his hand on Naruto, making sure he didn't slip or hurt himself. He had been contemplating a few things in his head, and realised the last chance he would get to speak with Naruto may have already passed.

Sakura was on her knees, holding one of the magnificent scales of Tatsuyoshi, "If we continue, we're going to die!" She was thrown to the side but managed to regain her position.

"Don't worry, we'll be fine." Genkei responded coolly, knowing what to expect.

Sasuke was also having trouble not to be thrown off. He was leaning against the horn on Tatsuyoshi's head. For extra support, he was holding part of the beast's hair. The dragon hadn't said anything, mainly because it was concentrating on the rough journey.

Kakashi stared at the gigantic water structure as they got closer. He was expecting something terrible but what happened next surprised him. The bottom of the cyclone started to spread apart, letting them all through. "What happened?"

The wall of water sealed itself again when the group had passed through. It was calmer on the inside, a stark difference. Genkei kept looking onwards, "That structure surrounds the homeland of the Confederation. The one we are riding on controls it. He is the guardian of this area, making sure it isn't discovered."

Sakura was coughing, her hair wet, "Who would come near this place with that thing there?" She pointed at the wall of water.

"Tatsuyoshi is the one who keeps that up to deter any visitors." Genkei stared ahead.

Sasuke stood up, "So this is why no one has found the Confederation."

"The power of dragons…" Kakashi remained seated.

After several minutes, they could see an island. It's perfectly yellow beaches were a beautiful sight along with the green backdrop. The birds were flying across it, singing in their majestic voices. Unlike on the outside of the cyclone, the sky was free of any clouds. The sun shone magnificently, brightening everything it touched.

Genkei could see a few people waiting for them, "Looks like our arrival was expected."

Sakura straightened her hair, "How?"

Genkei picked up Naruto, "They can sense our presence."

Tatsuyoshi stopped near the beach of the island, "It was a pleasure, Genkei-sama."

Genkei supported Naruto and jumped off the beast, landing in the shallow tide. Team 7 followed the dragon, reaching the sandy beach. "This doesn't look like the best of situations." Hideaki had his arms in his sleeves, greeting the group.

As Genkei handed Naruto to one of the shinobi, Kakashi stood motionless. Sakura and Sasuke both noticed the odd demeanour, looking back at their former mentor. Sakura waited for him to make a move, "Is something wrong?"

The man next to Hideaki stared at the jounin, "It has been a long time Kakashi."

Kakashi was shocked, staring at a person he didn't expect to ever see again. He took a deep breath, his eye displaying his shaken feelings, "Konoha's White Fang…Hatake Sakumo."

Author Notes: The White Fang is alive but for good reason. Remember the guy in the flashback who talks to Naruto when he is kidnapped and wakes up, it was Sakumo. Now that's another thing added for stuff to explain but it'll all be connected. This is also, of course, Kakashi's separate arc so to say. A few more revelations are on the way among other things. Anyways, much left to write and i don't want to spoil, so laters.