With Team 8's Genin: In the Forest

The three Genin were taking some time off from training and spending time together. Kiba and Akamaru were jumping from tree to tree with the dog marking them as they jumped, Shino was collecting bugs, and Sakura was simply enjoying the forest.

Shino was about to collect a bug until Akamaru's pee caused it to fly away. "Is that any way to walk a dog? No, I think not. I can't gather specimens this way."

Sakura smiled. "Chin up Shino. Remember, this trip isn't about gathering bugs. We decided to come out here to be together as a team."

"That may be the case; however, I'm aware you'd much rather be somewhere else right now." Shino stated.

Sakura looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "What are you getting at?" She smiled. "I'm here because I enjoy being on a team with you guys."

"That last part is true enough." Shino looked up at Kiba and Akamaru. "Recently, I've seen you outside of the Fusion Clan home hoping he's returned while you've visited the Uchiha less than people would expect."

"What are you getting at?" Sakura asked confused. "I'll have you know I've visited Sasuke plenty."

"Must be my mistake then." Shino admitted. "She'll come to realize it herself."

The proctor of the final exam appeared on a branch. "Shino Aburame, the Third Hokage request your presence in his office."

Kiba and Akamaru stopped on a branch. "Just Shino?"

"Just Shino." The proctor stated.

Shino looked at his teammates. "You two stay here. I'll come find you after."

The Academy

The students had been eating lunch, but now they crowded around Konohamaru and Udon. Konohamaru had his training staff out while Udon had his training sword drawn.

"Alright Udon, let's find out who's Bukijutsu is superior." Konohamaru smiled. "Just so you know, I won't be going easy on you."

Udon shot back "You say that everyday Konohamaru, yet I stand by my statement that swords are the best weapon."

"No, staffs are better." Konohamaru firmly stated.

The two immediately charged at each other. Konohamaru swung his staff only for Udon to block with his sword. Udon then lept to the side and moved in to strike his friend. Both boys had fan girls of their own these days; however, Konohamaru managed to have a larger following.

Both groups were arguing which of them was the best. Konohamaru and Udon continued their fight as their weapons collided several times. They jumped back and charged one another only for Iruka to appear catching both weapons. This was how their fights ended every time.

"I"VE TOLD YOU BOTH A MILLION TIMES TO STOP THESE FIGHTS DURING LUNCH HOUR!" Iruka angrily yelled.

Everyone scattered except for Udon and Konohamaru who were now being dragged away by Iruka. They were crying fake tears.

Hokage Tower

The entire group, Naruto, Daichi, Tonton, Tsunade, Shizune, and Jiraiya entered the tower.

"What are we doing here?" Naruto questioned. "Sasuke and Kakashi Sensei need help."

Jiraiya said, "That's the next stop Naruto, but we must see the old man first."

Naruto grumbled to himself, but it was clear he was just worried.

Jiraiya knocked and a baffled Third answered. "Come in."

The group entered to see the room packed with all the proctors from the Chunin Exam. Shikamaru and Shino both stood before the Third's desk. It was quite a surprise for many of them to see Tsunade.

"What's going on?" Naruto questioned.

The Third ignored his question for the moment to address the slug Yonnin. "Tsunade, it is good to see you again."

"It's good to see you to Sensei." Tsunade replied with a slight smile.

"Unfortunately, we are in the middle of something important. Would you mind attending to the injured in the hospital? That should give us enough time to finish up here" The Third asked.

"Alright, come on Granny Tsunade! Sasuke and Kakashi Sensei need your help!" Naruto exclaimed.

"I'm not that old you brat!" Tsunade yelled.

"Hold on, I would like Daichi to remain since this concerns him as well." The Third stated.

"Right." Daichi addressed Naruto. "If I'm not there when they wake up, tell Kakashi Sensei and Sasuke that I'll be over to visit them shortly."

"You got it." Naruto stated.

Daichi came to stand next to Shino while the others filed out of the room.

"So, you were just about to tell us what this was about Lord Hokage?" Shikamaru asked clearly bored.

The Hokage smiled. "I must say that it's a welcome surprise that you're here now, Daichi. It is customary for those who have attained the rank of Chunin to accept their jackets at the same time. Even though one of you still couldn't be here, and we cannot hold off for him to recover."

Shikamaru sighed, "What a drag."

Daichi was both surprised and happy. "I passed the Chunin Exams? That means I'm finally the Clan Head of the Fusion Clan!"

"Lord Hokage, I can understand how these two became Chunin, but I did not make it to the final exam." Shino stated.

"I'm well away Shino; however, the Chunin Exams were cut short due to the invasion." The Hokage shook his head. "Many fine shinobi lost their lives. This has left the ranks of Chunin without enough manpower. As such, we had to take much into consideration.

We shall take this opportunity to promote those we felt could fill the role well. In this decision, all Leaf Genin were considered based on their records from day one. In that, we found 4 shinobi who could fill the role. Daichi Ryu, Shino Aburame, Shikamaru Nara, and Sasuke Uchiha.

With this promotion, Shino Aburame and Sasuke Uchiha's statuses will be temporary. Their records shall be reexamined in 6 months. If mission reports speak positively of their actions, their statuses shall be made permanent like that of Daichi and Shikamaru's."

"I understand sir." Shino nodded. "I will do my upmost to prove that I am worthy of permanent Chunin status."

The Third nodded and Izumo and Kotetsu presented them with their Chunin flak jackets. They immediately put them on. Izumo held out another jacket to Daichi.

The Fusion member looked to the third. "That is Sasuke's jacket. See that he gets it and fill him in on what's happening." The Third then addressed them all. "You'll still be part of your teams, but with recent times being the way they are, you may be paired up for a mission or lead Genin."

Daichi nodded and took the jacket. "Right."

"From this day onward, I hope you'll all strive for a level of excellency worthy of your head bands and tittle." The Third sat back with a proud smile. "Congratulations, for you are now Chunin of The Village Hidden in the Leaves."

Outside the Hokage's Office

"I can't believe I'm finally a Chunin." Daichi smiled. "I honestly though no one was going to get promoted after the exams were interrupted."

Shikamaru sighed. "I suppose I should go and tell my team."

"I told my team I would rejoin them in the forest." Shino stated. "Seems like the perfect time to tell them."

Daichi had gotten so caught up in his promotion that he'd momentarily forgotten about his teammates. "I have to go guys!"

Daichi ran past his Chunin, but Shikamaru shouted. "Hey Daichi, why don't we play some Shogi later?"

Daichi yelled back. "I'm game!"

Shikamaru walked out of the tower with a slight smile. He had been impressed with the Fusion member and wanted to see if he was a worthy enough opponent in the game the newly made Chunin enjoyed.

Sasuke's Room, Earlier…

Hinata was visiting Sasuke when the door opened. She turned to see Naruto, Tsunade, and Shizune. Jiraiya had left them once they reached the hospital. Most likely to go off and do research.

Tsunade walked into the room. "May I come in?"

Hinata was surprised and immediately bowed to the Yonnin. "Of course, Lady Tsunade."

"Hey Hinata!" Naruto smiled as he ran up to his teammate. "There's no need to worry because Granny Tsunade's going to make everything okay again."

Hinata bowed again. "If that's true, then please save Sasuke and Kakashi Sensei."

Tsunade smiled. "I'll see what I can do."

Daichi rushed into the room. "Alright, I made it!"

Hinata and Naruto saw what he was wearing.

"You're a Chunin!" Naruto shouted. "Is that what the Hokage had to talk with you about? Are Shikamaru and Shino also Chunin? Why are you carrying an extra vest?"

Hinata smiled. "Congratulations."

"Thanks, Hinata." Daichi then addressed them both. "I'll tell you everything once Sasuke and Sensei are better."

The three Genin turned to Tsunade who laid her hand on Sasuke's head. Her hand glowed green. After a few moments, the Uchiha's eyes slowly opened. This caused his teammates to smile.

"Sasuke." Naruto said

Hinata said, "You're up."

"It's good to see you awake." Daichi stated.

The Uchiha sat up only to suddenly be hugged by his teammates. "Hey, get off me! I don't do hugs!"

Tsunade stood back and smiled. "Now that's a close team."

Shizune smiled as well. "Ah, that's sweet."

Kakashi's Room, Sometime Later…

Sasuke still had to rest, so Naruto, Daichi, and Hinata walked into their Sensei's room without him. Kakashi had just been awoken by Tsunade.

"Disgraceful." The Yonnin was now scolding him. "To be taken out of the game by two low life punks. I thought you were supposed to be among the best."

"Sorry… to disappoint you." Kakashi said sounding weak.

"I don't think that's a fair assessment Lady Tsunade. Those two are S rank criminals. Not to mention the fact that one of them is an Uchiha while the other is an ex-Seven Swordsman of the Mist." Daichi commented.

"Yeah, those two were crazy strong." Naruto added.

"You two may be right." Tsunade conceded. "Anyways, you three should leave your teammates to rest." She smiled at them. "They'll be fine."

Hinata nodded. "She's right." The Hyuga turned to her teammates with a smile. "We got to celebrate a job well done."

"Just so long as we don't celebrate mine and Sasuke's rise to Chunin until everyone's better." Daichi stated.

"Sasuke made Chunin, but I didn't!?" Naruto hung his head. "That's so unfair."

"I'll talk about It while were out on the village." Daichi ran out of the room. "I'll meet you two at the entrance."

Sasuke's Room

Daichi entered the room and found Sasuke fast asleep. He moved over to the table and left the vest there before finding a paper and pen. He wrote out a quick note explaining things before leaving his teammate to rest.

Streets of Konoha

As they walked, Daichi explained what happened in the office.

"…I'm officially a Chunin now." Daichi explained.

"That's really cool Daichi." Hinata stated proud of both teammates for making Chunin.

Naruto smiled. "I'm happy for you but why did the Teme get Chunin when I didn't?"

Daichi shrugged. "Don't ask me man."

"So, where should we eat?" Hinata asked.

Naruto happily stated. "Let's get Ichiraku Ramen."

Before anymore could be said, a Hyuga appeared before them. At least, Naruto and Daichi thought they were a Hyuga. They had the fair skin and wore the robes of a Hyuga; however, there eyes seemed more Uchiha like. In addition, they had long, raven hair that was spiky.

"Daichi Ryu, the Hyuga Council wishes to discuss matters with you once again." The Hyuga stated.

Daichi honestly thought he'd have a little time before being forced to meet with the Hyuga elders. Not immediately after becoming Chunin. Appears luck wasn't on his side today. At least he could finally initiate his plan to get them off his back and help Hiashi.

"I have to get something from my house. I'll be a long in a bit." Daichi stated. "In the meantime, can you take Hinata and get Hiashi for a pre-meeting in his study? I have an urgent matter of my own that I must discuss with them before meeting with the elders."

"As you wish." The Hyuga turned to Hinata. "Lady Hinata, will you come with me?"

"Yes." Hinata turned to Naruto. "Sorry Naruto, something important has come up."

"No worries… either of you." Naruto nodded. "I'm aware of the problems the Hyuga can cause for Daichi, so if he needs you, go."

Daichi smiled. "Thanks man." The Hyuga had Hinata follow while Daichi walked towards his home. "Feel free to order whatever and put it on my tab."

Hyuga Compound: Hiashi's Study, Some Time Later…

Daichi entered the study and first noticed all the books along the walls, a desk with chairs on both sides, and that the desk was filled with paperwork. He then noticed the two Hyuga, that he wanted to see, sitting on a couch. Daichi immediately took a seat on the couch across from them.

"I'm sorry the Hyuga elders have brought you here once again Daichi." Hinata stated.

Daichi smiled. "It's not yours or Hiashi's fault Hinata. Honestly, I knew this was coming."

"So, what's this pre-meeting about Daichi?" Hiashi asked.

"This." Daichi took a scroll out. "I want to issue a Duel against the Hyuga Council and wish for your permission to do so."

"What is a Duel?" Hinata questioned.

Hiashi answered, "A Samurai tradition that Hisashi, Daichi's grandfather, integrated into his clan upon establishing it. A Duel is where one person can challenge a certain person or entire group to a match much like the final exam of the Chunin Exams.

Both sides must agree to the terms and sign a scroll declaring the Duel. The scroll itself contains the time the dual is to take place and what both sides wager. It's also worth noting that should a side back out of this agreement, the Hokage will step in to enforce it."

"Exactly." Daichi nodded. "If I win, the Hyuga council is disbanded, and the head of the clan gains full power; however, he must pick advisers to help guide the clan into a better future. Finally, the Caged Bird Seal must be removed from the Branch Members." Daichi stated.

"What happens if you lose?" Hinata asked worriedly.

"The Hyuga Council gets what they've always wanted. I marry into the Hyuga clan and give them every Jutsu my clan has ever had." Daichi stated. "That said, they have no right to restrict my clan or prevent me from dating anyone until they win."

"Your father was willing to do the same, but I talked him out it. To this day, I'm not sure it was right things to do. Now, this would be a huge step in uniting our clan." Hiashi thought about Neji. "You have my support."

"Thank you Hiashi. Rest assured, I've put in clauses which prevent them from making Hinata or Hanabi my wife." Daichi then looked to his teammate. "Hinata?"

"I don't know Daichi." Hinata was clearly worried for him. "I know you're strong, but there's always that chance you'll lose. I don't want you to regret this."

Daichi smiled. "First, the Duel won't take effect until the day I become a Jonin, so there's plenty of time for me to get stronger. Secondly, the only way I could ever regret taking this action is if you said no. and I went behind your back. You and Hiashi are my friends.

Win or lose, I won't regret this because I'll have done everything in my power to help my friends, your clan, and Konoha as a hole. Having a untied Hyuga Clan can only make us stronger. News of this should ease the minds of the Branch family after Neji's departure."

Hinata smiled. "Then I'm in favor of your plan Daichi."

Daichi stood. "Look like it's time I meet with the elders then."

Hiashi and Hinata followed him as he left the room.

Hyuga Main House: Dining Room

Daichi took a seat at the table and immediately dived into the scroll. He explained every part of it to the elders before coming to the parts he hadn't shared with Hinata or Hiashi.

"My opponent cannot be Hiashi, Hinata, or Hanabi. Besides the fact that Hanabi or Hinata can't be my wife, I get to choose a Hyuga bride on the condition that you win this Duel."

The elders discussed the Duel before coming to a consensus.

An old man stood. "Daichi Ryu, we accept."

Daichi signed the scroll and passed it around for every Hyuga, including Hiashi, to do the same.

Once Daichi triple checked that nothing had been altered, he stood. "I'll be taking my leave."

Sasuke's Room

Sasuke opened his eyes and looked around. He noticed the Chunin vest and note on his table. He sat up and grabbed the note reading over all the information. He saw Daichi had signed it at the bottom.

When he was done, he laid down and looked at the ceiling. "Daichi… Naruto… they've both become stronger." He brought up the hand he uses to hold the Chidori. "Have I grown stronger as well." He remembered Itachi. "I need to know."

Streets of Konoha

Daichi felt relieved. Until he became a Jonin, he should have no problems with the Hyuga Council.

"Hey Daichi!" Sakura shouted.

Daichi turned and waved. "Hey Sakura!"

Sakura ran up to him. "Wow, you really did become a Chunin." She smiled. "Good for you. You deserve it as well as the role of Clan Head. They both suit you."

"Thanks Sakura." Daichi nodded.

"Have you eaten yet? Got any plans?" Sakura asked.

Daichi shook his head. "No to both."

Sakura began dragging him by his jacket. "Great! I'm taking you out to eat. A newly made Chunin should get a good meal, and I won't hear of you backing out now."

Sakura was in a cheery mood, so Daichi figured he'd just go with the flow. Plus, he didn't mind this girl dragging him around like he thought he would have. That was odd as he knew for certain he'd mind others doing the same.

Daichi happily said, "Hey, I won't turn down the meal."

Shino had observed this with a sweat drop. "They'll realize it at their own pace."

He walked off the other way.

With Lee and Karin

Lee and Karin were doing some sparing to get the Uzumaki into Genin shape. Turns out the Village Hidden in the Grass hadn't really trained her at all. Currently, the girl was panting while Lee was full of energy.

"You are doing well Karin." Lee complimented. "In no time, you will be able to join Team Guy. Then training really starts to pick up."

"I hope so." Karin smiled. "Anyways, I hear there's going to be a fifth Hokage. What if she doesn't allow it to happen like the Third would?"

"I do not think you have anything to worry about." Lee nodded. "The Hokage of the past have been great people. If they do not let you join, Guy and I will try to convince them."

Tenten ran into the training grounds. "Guys, Lady Tsunade has returned to the village." She was so happy. "It's really her!"

"That is great." Lee stated. "If she is staying, you should ask her for training. Getting a Yonnin's help would do wonders for you."

Tenten nodded. "That's exactly what I was thinking. Maybe I can't learn everything she'd teach me, but I'm certain she can at least give me some direction. I'll wait a few days to ensure she's staying before approaching her."

Hospital: Sasuke's Room, A Few Days Later…

Sasuke was alone with his thoughts until Hinata, Naruto, and Daichi entered. Naruto held a bag of apples, and each of them were eating one. The three of them were in a jovial mood.

"Hey Sasuke." Daichi stated. "You're looking like your almost back to yourself."

Naruto removed an apple from the bag. "Here, Daichi bought this whole bag of apples for us." He threw it. "Enjoy."

Sasuke caught the apple before looking at Naruto and Daichi with a series expression and crushing the apple in his hand.

Hinata was concerned. "Are you okay Sasuke?"

"I'm fine." The Uchiha was still focusing on them. "Naruto and Daichi, I must fight you."

Naruto asked, "What are you talking about?"

Sasuke clenched his fist and looked at it. "I need to know how strong you both are. How strong I am."

At that moment, Kakashi entered the room. "Well, if you must you must." He was rubbing his chin. "We'll do this once your better and separate the matches to ensure you're always at a 100% against them. I wouldn't want you to use not being at full power as an excuse."

"I accept those terms." Sasuke declared.

Daichi nodded. "I'm game for a fight that test all our abilities against each other."

Naruto nodded. "Just make sure you wear your forehead protector and vest." He smiled. "It's the ultimate sign of respect and the only way I'll fight you."

Daichi nodded. "Good idea. Even if our vests are destroyed, we can get new ones." He thought about it. "Though, I'll likely switch back to just head band after this. Got to let my clan pride show."

Hokage Tower: Hokage's Office

Tsunade sat behind the desk and Sarutobi, now in simple robes, stood before her. "I suppose I've given you all the useful advice I can. As of now, you are acting Hokage. It will take a few days before it's official, but you have nothing to worry about in that regard." Sarutobi stated.

Tsunade replied, "I hope you'll agree to have a drink with me from time-to-time Sensei. I would like to be able to consult with you if any major problems arise."

"Getting together and having a drink would be lovely though keep in mind that I can't drink too much, or I'll be rubbish when it comes to training my grandson." Sarutobi stated with a smile.

He then left the office and Tsunade turned to look out the window at the Hokage Monument. "Life sure has a funny way of working out, doesn't it grandfather?"

She heard her door open and turned to see Tenten. "Lady Tsunade may I speak with you?"

"You are free to do so." Tsunade smiled. "My door is as open as my Sensei's was."

Tenten walked up to the desk and bowed. "Thank you, Lady Hokage. My name is Tenten and when I was growing up in the orphanage, I heard stories of your exploits. How you were the strongest Kunochi ever. You're my hero and the reason I strive to be a Kunochi.

Unfortunately, I'm not great at medical Ninjutsu nor Chakra control like most Kunochi; however, I have a desire to improve myself. There are goals I wish to achieve, and I feel learning some Taijutsu from you would help improve my Bukijutsu."

The village does need strong Kunochi. This one seems eager to learn." Tsunade put her hands on the desk. "Here's what we'll do Tenten. The village is going to need a lot of my attention with my recent instatement to Hokage and the recent attack

I can get you started learning from my apprentice, Shizune. She'll be instated as a Jonin soon enough. Once I have more free time, I'll take a more active role in your teaching and see what you can learn from me. Does that sound alright?"

Tenten smiled and bowed. "Thank you, Lady Tsunade. It means a lot that you would even consider training me. Let alone actually agree to do it. I promise I won't let you or your apprentice down."

Tsunade couldn't help but smile and decided something then and there. "Tenten, I was about to go out to lunch with my apprentice. Would you like to join us? It would be an excellent opportunity for us to get to know each other."

Tenten was not about to turn down lunch with her hero. "I would love to Lady Tsunade."

Streets of Konoha, After Lunch…

Tsunade quickly grew attached to Tenten. She reminded Tsunade a lot of herself when she was younger. Both seemed to be one of the few, competent Kunochi in their generation. She seemed like a nice girl who was on Might Guy's team. It was a miracle she hadn't gone crazy.

Spending time with the orphaned girl had brought what Daichi said to mind about the Senju Clan. Getting such a Clan, once integral to Konoha, up and running would be a huge moral boost. Maybe… just maybe… it was time to start the process of moving on.

So, as Tenten walked on a head, Tsunade spoke with Shizune. "Shizune, I'm think it's time we bring the Senju Clan back."

Shizune was surprised. "Lady Tsunade… Are you really going to use the idea Daichi offered?"

"It's logical. The Senju Clan is the only clan that could pull off such a thing given what we were known for. I wish to adopt you and Tenten into the clan. More than that, into my immediate family as daughters. I've always thought of you as such and Tenten needs a family."

Shizune smiled. "Honestly, I've taken a liking to the girl myself. It'll take time to reinstate the Senju Clan as there are other pressing issues, but if you think you're ready, I'm in agreement."

"This means I'd be entrusting you with the tittle of Clan Head." Tsunade stated. "As the Hokage, I cannot fulfill both roles."

Shizune nodded. "I'm willing to fill the role ma'am."

Tsunade's Office

Tsunade sat at her desk, Shizune stood next to her, and Tenten stood across from them.

The Genin bowed. "Thank you for lunch Lady Tsunade. It was a true honor to get to know both you and your apprentice." She smiled. "I had fun."

"We aren't done Tenten." Tsunade stated.

"Oh, is there more you'd like to discuss with me ma'am?" Tenten asked.

"As you know, I'm one of the last remaining Senju and the Senju Clan is important to Konoha. Rebirthing the clan would be a boon to Konoha even if we no longer have the bloodline. Not fully at least. To that end, I'm going to request the adoption papers for Shizune.

I've always seen her as a daughter. She'll become Clan Head and take the last name Senju. Now, I find myself liking you girl, and wish to adopt you into the clan as well. So, what do you say? Want to join my family?"

Tenten went from shock to tears forming in her eyes at Tsunade's words. "My hero wants to adopt me. I'd have a mom and sister. A family. Tenten Senju." The Tears freely flowed now as she bowed low. "Lady Tsunade, I'm honored. I've always wanted a family."

Shizune immediately walked forward and hugged the crying girl joining her. "It's okay Tenten. We're here for you now and please call me big sister."

Tsunade sighed and shook her head. "I got some real emotional daughters." She got up and joined the hug. "Alright, for now neither of you are Senju until I sign the proper paperwork as the last Senju.

I promise I'll start working on it as soon as possible." She stepped back. "Shizune. Take Tenten to the Senju compound. Just because she isn't a Senju doesn't mean she can't start settling in. Keep in mind that when a Council meeting happens, this will be a topic of discussion."

"Yes, Lady Tsunade." Shizune stated before walking towards the door. "Come on Tenten."

"Right behind you." Tenten stated with the biggest smile.

Tsunade sat in her chair feeling good about this. She'd have to start looking into other members for the clan. Not her immediate family, but a Clan was always filled with more than one family.