Land of Fire: Forest

Gaara now looked at Naruto as he alone walked over. The Genin's thoughts turned to his past. All the loneliness and sadness. How everyone looked at him as a monster instead of a child. Naruto soon stood over him looking forlorn.

"We're a lot a like you and I." Naruto stated. "There was a time that I was alone. Lost in the darkness, but I never gave up. I never let that darkness consume me. Eventually, I met people who saw me for who I was. Sasuke recognized me as just another kid to beat.

Iruka, my teacher, saw me as a student in need of someone who cares. Daichi came along and became my first friend. Hinata followed shortly after. Then Sasuke, Daichi, Hinata, and I became Team Seven with our Sensei. We became comrades.

From there, more people saw me for me. I became friends and/or comrades with so many people. I will do anything to protect them. I'll let you go for today, but if you come back with the intent to hurt them, I will kill you."

Naruto walked back to Sasuke and Daichi leaving Gaara thinking about everything he'd heard and experienced. This was when Gaara's siblings appeared in front of him protectively. Sasuke and Daichi did the same for Naruto.

"That's enough." Gaara calmly stated. "It's over."

Kankuro and Temari looked back at their brother.

"I never thought I'd see this. He's had it." Kankuro walked over to his brother and slung him over his shoulder. "Alright Gaara."

The Sand Siblings looked at the Leaf Genin before taking off.

"We should stick together as we make our way back to the village." Daichi stated. "The forest is likely littered with Sand and Sound Shinobi fleeing from Konoha."

Sasuke and Naruto nodded before all of them jumped into the trees and made their way back to the village.

Konoha, Days Later…

Konoha was victorious; however, the casualties had not been light. Fortunately, The Third Hokage, while heavily injured, was expected to make a recovery. His days of fighting were behind him. The Mizukage, being much younger, would recover quicker and had fight left.

Even though she'd returned to the Mist with her bodyguard, and what remained of the team sent for the exams, there were rumors that the Hokage and her came to a positive trade agreement. Some people even heard Mei had two blood line limits she hadn't trained with them yet.

The Village Hidden in the Sand had found their Kazekage dead after returning home. With this revelation, they had no choice but to surrender. With Konoha coming out victorious, they began the process of rebuilding what had been destroyed.

Orochimaru's Hideout

Orochimaru sat in a throne. He couldn't move or feel his arms at all. The nerves were shot, and the network wasn't transferring Chakra.

Orochimaru angrily said, "That Mizukage…"

"You didn't think it'd be easy, did you? Look at who you were playing with. Not only did you face one of the most renowned Shinobi in the 5 nations, but also the leader of a rebellion which toppled the Bloody Mist. It's amazing you held up as well as you did." Kabuto stated.

"I won't be patronized." Orochimaru angrily stated. "Do you understand me? I'll kill you."

"Forgive me." Kabuto stated. "We may not have completed any of the objectives you set forth, but we did cripple the Hidden Leaf. For some time to come I'd wager." Kabuto stated.

"If only I had gotten a hold of Itachi Uchiha's body." Orochimaru stated. "We wouldn't be in this mess. It's too late now for that dream has died. Itachi is stronger than I am. That is why I pulled myself out of that organization."

The Great Naruto Bridge

Neji walked along the the bridge with his Curse Seal burning painfully; however, he was determined that this not be the end of him. He would not give in no matter how appealing an option that may be. He was going to live.

Shun appeared before him weaving a set of hand signs. "You've done good Neji. Ready to go? I have a place where you can rest comfortably as the pain washes over you."

Neji looked at him. "Hurry."

Shun nodded and placed a hand on his shoulder. The Hyuga and Uzumaki suddenly vanished.

Konoha Hospital

Lee, Tenten, and Hinata had been placed in the same room due to the influx of patients. Fortunately, all three would make a full recovery. Lee was just going to take a little longer than the girls. Currently, their minds had turned towards Neji.

"So, what do we do now?" Hinata asked.

"We heal, get out there, and look for Neji." Lee stated determined. "At this point, I believe he has chosen this path of his own free will, and as his friends or family we cannot let him continue down it."

"We can't leave Konoha to search for him." Hinata stated. "What Neji said may be right, but I don't think the village is a lost cause like cousin does. I'm still proud to be a Shinobi."

"Lee and I agree." Tenten sighed. "As things stand now, I think what we need to work towards is some form of reform and grow stronger. We have no idea where Neji is, and the trail is likely cold by this point. If not, by the time they can search for him."

"Only problem is that none of us have much power to do anything." Hinata stated.

"We don't; however, we know people who do." Tenten stated. "There's no guarantee, but I think a few clan heirs have the potential to ascend to Chunin. They just so happen to become Clan Head due to circumstances after obtaining such a rank."

"Daichi and Sasuke." Hinata stated.

"It is worth a shot." Lee stated. "We should wait for the definite results before bringing this up with them though. That will take a while given Konoha's status."

"Agreed." The girls stated.

Guy, Kakashi, and Karin entered the room.

Karin ran over to Lee's bed as she was most concerned with him. "Lee are you feeling alright?"

"I am fine Karin." Lee chuckled. "Seems as though I won't get the opportunity to show you around Konoha. Maybe we could reschedule and do so once she has returned to her former glory."

Karin shook her head. "I'm not concerned with a date you idiot." She took a deep breath and smiled. "I'm just glad you're okay."

Kakashi walked up to his student's bed. "In less than a month, you're back in the hospital Hinata." He shook his head. "I know it couldn't be helped, but those three boys have been worried for you."

"I'm sorry Kakashi Sensei. I didn't mean to make them worry." Hinata shook her head as Neji entered her mind. "I didn't expect anything that had happened."

Guy stepped into the middle of the room. "That is my fault." He looked at the ground. "I am sorry you three. I was his Sensei and should have seen the signs. If I had…"

Kakashi interrupted. "There is no point in worrying about ifs Guy. What matters now is what you do from here on out. Frankly, you are a great Jonin instructor. Plus, we can't be expected to know what our students are going through unless they are willing to share."

Guy sighed. "I could have pressed harder Kakashi. It is our job to shape these kids into fine Shinobi. Mentally, physically, and emotionally." He looked at Tenten and Lee. "I understand if you want a new Sensei."

"No way Guy Sensei." Lee stated firmly. "You are an amazing Sensei, and I will accept no one else."

"That goes double for me." Tenten added. "I'll admit that you and Lee can get on my nerves; however, your still my team."

Guy cried. "Such a fiery youth you two still have even after your teammate has left."

Kakashi eye smiled. "They had a Sensei capable of teaching them such youth."

Guy stood firm now. "Okay, then I shall continue to teach you both and together we will endeavor to find Neji using our powers of youth. After all, I am not prepared to let him go so easily."

Tenten and Lee nodded. "We're with you Guy Sensei."

Hinata looked out the window.

Kakashi spoke up. "Team Seven will be happy to help. Hinata wants to find her cousin and Naruto is mad he hasn't gotten his match. No doubt Sasuke and Daichi will be eager to help given their teammates' wishes."

Guy smiled. "Thank you, my eternal rival."

The mood in the room was quite jovial after that.

Fusion Clan Home

Daichi was eating his breakfast and thinking what he wanted to do for the day. Likely either train or see where he could be useful in the reconstruction effort if he had to wager. His attention was soon drawn to the door when he heard someone knocking.

He opened the door and was rather surprised who was there. "Sakura? Is there a problem you need help with?" He got a little angry. "Is it your mother?"

"No, mom's been leaving me alone actually." Sakura shook her head. "I came because I'd like to hear about your family." She chuckled nervously. "I know that is likely a rude and/or strange question. I just want to know what made you who you are."

Daichi shrugged. "I mean, you spoke to me about your family. While I don't have anyone like your mother, it is only fair I speak about mine. Plus, talking about family is one of the best ways to keep their memories of them alive." He stood aside. "Are you hungry? I just made breakfast."

Secure smiled as she stepped inside. "I wouldn't mind some breakfast."

Daichi's Kitchen, A Few Minutes Later…

Daichi had finished his meal and was drinking orange juice while Sakura was chowing down. "Wow, this is good. You really made this?"

Daichi nodded. "My mother taught me everything she knew. Anyways, I don't really have a preference, so where would you like me to start?"

"How about at the beginning?" Sakura asked.

"My mom's side of the family comes from Nadeshiko Village." Daichi began. "You know how the systems works there, right?" Sakura nodded. "As for my father's side, that's the land of Iron. My grandfather was a Samurai turned Shinobi."

"Your grandpa was a Samurai?" Sakura asked. "Why did he leave the Land of Iron?"

"He wasn't only a Samurai, but the child of a House Lord. Over the years, he met and befriended several Shinobi from the Leaf. He eventually wanted to become one, so he spent a great deal if time training in their arts. This was also about the time the Fusion Clone ability was developed.

I don't know how it developed honestly. Mother told me I'd find out eventually. With this ability, he began to gain more styles of fighting and Jutsu. One day, he challenged his father and won the right to leave the Land of Iron as a free man.

He immediately made his way to the Leaf where he was accepted as a Shinobi and Clan. He hoped to create a flourishing clan for Konoha and eventually found a woman to marry. While he tragically died, his dream had lived on his descendants." Daichi explained.

"That's why it's important for you to become a Chunin." Sakura stated.

"You're thinking of the Clan Restoration Act, aren't you? "Daichi asked.

"You mean that's not it?" Sakura questioned. "It would be the easiest way to create a clan."

Daichi chuckled. "I intend on finding one and only one to love." Sakura looked at him surprised. "I want to be a Chunin to ascend to the seat of Clan Head. The Clan Restoration Act isn't for me. Just as it wasn't for my grandfather or father."

Sakura nodded in understanding. "I can respect that."

"What about you?" Daichi asked. "What have you decided with your new development""

Sakura smiled. "I just want to be a Shinobi. If Lady Tsunade ever returns and decides to restart the clan, I'd be for joining, but not at the cost of giving my mother any stake in it. If that's the case, I'd refuse to keep her far away."

"Your father is technically a Senju, so it may come down to you joining to limit your mother. After all, you're the Senju with the Wood Release." Daichi nodded. "Just remember, I'm here if you need me."

Sakura smiled gratefully. "Thanks, Daichi."

Third Hokage's Hospital Room

Jiraiya and Kazamae entered and took a seat next to their Sensei's bed.

"Alright old man, why did you call us here?" Jiraiya inquired.

"I can no longer fulfill my role as Hokage. The injury I received would have healed fine if I were a younger man, but I'm far past my prime. My movements are going to slow, and my strength will have depleted." Sarutobi explained.

"Sensei, neither of us are right for the position." Kazamae stated knowing where this was going. "I've never been one paperwork. Plus, there's that long standing assignment I've been involved in. The one that requires some oversight."

"I'm not right for the position either." Jiraiya calmly stated. "My spy network would suffer if I became Hokage."

"Then, who do you suggest I get to be Hokage? If I don't find someone, Danzo will take this chance to seize the position for himself." Sarutobi stated.

"How about Tsunade?" Jiraiya asked.

Sarutobi replied, "I thought about her, but no one knows where she is."

Jiraiya smiled. "I'm sure I could dig her up as well as convince her to come back to the village. After all, we've gained some new information this past year. All you'd have to do is retain the seat a little while longer."

"Very well Jiraiya." Sarutobi thought about it. "I'm making it your mission to find her."

"I do have a request." Jiraiya stated. "I'd like to take Naruto Uzumaki with me."

"Why do you need him?" Sarutobi inquired.

"The kid's become my pupil, and I think now is the right time to teach him Minato's Jutsu." Jiraiya replied. "He'll need to grow if he wants any hope against the Akatsuki."

"Daichi is ready to learn that Jutsu as well." Kazamae looked at Jiraiya. "I'd teach him myself, but I need to go oversee my mission."

"It appears you saved me the trouble of asking to take him along. I think the two of them will learn the Jutsu easier if they're together." Jiraiya turned to their Sensei. "What do say old man? Can I take these two Genin?"

Sarutobi nodded. "You may, but I want you to ensure their safety. I don't like these reports you've been giving me on the Akatsuki. There's a stirring in the air, and they could very well come after those boys."

"Not to worry." Jiraiya stated. "They'll be safe in my hands."

Konoha Streets

Zabuza was flipping through one of Kakashi's Icha Icha books. "This is filth Hatake." He threw the book back to his fellow Jonin who caught it. "Utter filth."

"Come on Zabuza, the books aren't that bad." Kakashi flipped the book open. "Even if it were, you can't deny it's filth with good story."

"I'm not a fan." Zabuza stated.

At that moment, Asuma and Kurenai were walking down the street causing Kakashi to close the book. "Hey guys. You seem to be rather chummy."

Kurenai blushed. "Idiot." She looked away from Asuma. "Anko just asked me to pick up some rice dumplings for her."

"Jeez." Zabuza rolled his eyes.

"You got something to say former Demon?" Kurenai asked.

"First, I'm not a former Demon. Just Konoha's Demon now. Second, we're Shinobi meaning we can die at any time. We don't have the luxury of schoolgirl crushes." Zabuza stated bluntly.

Kakashi nodded. "He's makes a valid point."

"It's none of your business." Kurenai crossed her arms. "My personal life is my business only."

Asuma chuckled and decided to change the subject. "So, what are you two doing here?"

"I needed to buy something to put on a grave and figured this was a good time to show Zabuza around a little." He glanced inside the little shop where two figures in black cloaks with red clouds sat. "I'm also meeting someone. Just waiting on Sasuke."

Kurenai and Asuma glanced inside the shop.

Asuma chuckled. "It's not like you to be waiting on somebody. Is it for Obito?"

"Obito?" Kurenai questioned.

"Yeah…" Kakashi stated. "Kind of."

Sasuke approached the group. "It's not like you to be early Kakashi. What gives?"

"Well, sometimes I am." Kakashi replied.

Sasuke looked inside the shop only to see left food and hot tea. "Let's eat somewhere else. I don't have much of a sweet tooth."

"Is that so?" Kakashi questioned before looking at the other Jonin.

They each gave a slight nod before taking off.

Streets near Water

The two cloaked figures were walking along the streets only to be confronted by Asuma, Kurenai, and Zabuza.

"You guys aren't from around here." Asuma stated. "What are you doing in our village?"

"It's been a long time Asuma and Kurenai." The figure on the left stated. "I see Zabuza Momochi has become a Leaf shinobi as well."

"The fact that you seem familiar with Kurenai and I must mean you're a shinobi formerly of this village." Asuma stated.

The figure on the left removed his hat revealing a tall young man with a fair complexion. He had onyx eyes, which immediately became Sharingan, under which were long, pronounced tear-troughs. He had jet-black hair that was pulled back in a low ponytail.

"What do you know?" Asuma stated. "Itachi Uchiha."

"Those two are friends of yours?" The second figure stated. "What a fortunate meeting since Zabuza is an old friend of mine."

Zabuza angrily scowled at the second figure as he tightly gripped his blade. "Kisame Hoshigaki."

"You remember me, little Zabuza." The second figure chuckled. "I'm honored. I must say, it's quite interesting you'd join Konoha of all places."

The second figure, who was taller than Itachi, removed his hat. Kisame had a distinctive shark-like appearance with pale blue-grey skin. He has small, round, white eyes, 3 sets of curved facial markings under his eyes, gills on his shoulders, and sharp triangular teeth.

"Looks like we three have all the incentive needed to wipe the floor with you two." Asuma stated seriously.

"I'm warning you that you don't want to interfere with me." Itachi stated. "It isn't my desire to kill any of you."

"That's hilarious coming from a guy who murdered his own people." Asuma stated. "Now out with it. I know you didn't come skulking around here, dressed like that, for no reason. What are you after?"

Kisame drew his bandaged sword and smashed the ground. "This one is getting on my nerves. Mind if kill him?"

"I guess we're not going anywhere without a fight." Itachi stated. "Just don't overdo it. Your moves tend to stand out."

Before Kisame could charge in, Zabuza beat him to it. Kisame moved to block the Executioner's Blade with his own blade. The two weapons locked as Kurenai jumped back casting a Genjutsu. Asuma rushed at Itachi with his trench knives slicing at the Uchiha who effortlessly dodged.

"Impressive little Zabuza." Kisame chuckled. "You've gone and become stronger."

Zabuza was pushing with all his might yet getting nowhere. "Not strong enough it seems."

Kisame kicked the Demon back and ran his blade down the swordsman's chest causing the bandages to tear along with Zabuza's shirt, flak jacket, and skin causing him to start bleeding.

"Zabuza!" Asuma shouted.

"You've left yourself open." Itachi stated before kicking Asuma back to Zabuza's side.

"Idiot." Zabuza stated. "I'll be fine. This isn't the first time I've tangled with Kisame or Samehada."

Asuma smiled. "Maybe so, but this time Kurenai's got us covered."

Kisame saw himself sinking into the ground while Itachi was bound to a tree.

Kurenai came out of the tree appearing to be merged with it. "Alright, let's end this."

She made her move only for the Genjutsu to be reversed as Itachi now stood before her, and she was the one who was trapped. "Genjutsu of that level doesn't work on me."

"He used a Genjutsu reflection!" Kurenai thought shocked.

Itachi prepared to stab her, so she bit her lip drawing blood. This got her out of the Genjutsu, and she ducked only having some of her hair removed by the blade. The Uchiha just kicked Kurenai who blocked; however, the sheer strength the Uchiha had knocked her onto the water.

"Kurenai!" Asuma yelled.

"I can hold Kisame." Zabuza firmly stated. "Go help her."

Asuma nodded and jumped onto the water after Itachi. Zabuza gripped his blade and began swinging it at the shark man with as much speed as he could muster.

Kisame easily blocked the former's blade "Come now little Zabuza. We both know you could never beat me."

"Doesn't mean I won't try." Zabuza stated. "Who knows, I could get lucky. Plus, it's been three years and I haven't been idle in that time."

Kisame jumped back and began weaving hand signs so Zabuza did the same. Asuma ran at Itachi swinging his trench knives which forced the Uchiha away from her. Then, two Kakashis, one on the water and the other on the shore, appeared. Each were weaving hand signs of their while having their Sharingan revealed.

"Water Style: Shark Bomb Jutsu." Kisame declared.

Kakashi 1 said, "Water Style: Shark Bomb Jutsu."

"Water Style: Water Dragon Jutsu." Zabuza proclaimed.

Kakashi 2 stated, "Wind Style: Air Bullets Jutsu."

Kisame's water shark met an exact copy of itself causing both to cancel out. The dragon made of water moved in heading straight for Kisame who blocked it by holding up his blade. Itachi avoided bullets of air fired at him from the other Kakashi.

Kisame was shocked. "He used the same Jutsu as I did."

"Not that I'm unhappy to see you Kakashi, but what are you doing here?" Asuma questioned the clone on the water.

The Kakashi clone replied, "I got a little worried when I asked you to take care of these two…"

"…I decided to come see how it was going only to find Itachi Uchiha of all people." The real Kakashi finished.

"I would boast that we don't need your help Kakashi." Zabuza glared at Kisame. "That's before I knew who we were dealing with."

Itachi ignored all of them and focused on looking the original in the eye. "Kakashi… it's you."