Ichiraku Ramen

The four Genin of Team Seven were eating ramen given to them by Teuchi. Daichi had been laden with apology gifts once he left the hospital even though he tried to refuse. He didn't blame the civilians or even the shinobi that attacked him. The one responsible was serving her sentence.

The Fusion member looked at the gifts after finishing his bowl. "Coupons for various stories, more kunai, shuriken, and senbon than I need, and chocolates from my fan girls which I do not want."

He thought about it. "I suppose the projectiles are fine, and the rest could be given to the hospital. Getting something nice might brighten a patient's mood." He finished his ramen and wove some hand signs. "Shadow Clone Jutsu."

4 Daichi's appeared. "Alright, two of you gather the coupons and chocolate. See if the hospital will accept them. If not, hand them out, yet don't be forceful. The other two need to gather all the projectiles and store them in the basement neatly."

All four nodded. "Yes sir."

They then got to work before he looked at his team. "So, you three want to go to tomorrow's festival together or you got plans?"

Naruto finished off his ramen. "Sorry Daichi, but I'm taking Hinata on a date to the festival."

Daichi raised an eyebrow, "Really?"

Sasuke chocked on some ramen. "The Dobe's got a date?"

The Fusion member patted the Uchiha's back.

Sasuke eventually recovered and stood. "I don't do festivals. I'll likely come out to eat, but I'm planning on training." He tossed money on the counter and walked off. "See you three around."

"Sorry Daichi." Hinata stated sincerely.

Daichi smiled genuinely. "Don't worry about it." He put his hands behind his head. "It's bound to be fun regardless." He walked out. "I'll try the various foods and play a few games."

Fusion Clan Home, Next Night…

Daichi removed his sheathe, still had to buy two new blades after the last mission, as well as his other weapon holsters. He then took a single kunai and tucked it away on his person. This may be a fun night in the Leaf Village, but you couldn't be too careful.

The Fusion Member was just about to leave his room, the master bedroom, and head out when he heard a knocking at the door. "Who could that be?" He walked down the stairs. "I'm coming!" He opened the door and found Sakura standing outside. "Hey, what's up Sakura?"

"Daichi, I came because I heard you were ordered to go to the festival by Lady Tsunade." Sakura stated. "If you didn't have any plans, I was thinking you'd like to go with me? I'd pay for the night as a thank you for all you did."

"Huh, you don't have to thank me Sakura." Daichi smiled. "I protect my comrades with my life. That said, I am not going with anyone, so I'd be fine going to the festival with you." He stepped out. "Did you ask Sasuke and he say no?"

"No, I didn't even ask him." Sakura seemed genuinely confused. "I actually came here first."

Daichi looked at her funny. "Would you like go ask him? He didn't seem enthused about the whole festival thing, but you may have some luck."

Sakura looked at Daichi. "Nah, I think my desire to always ask him out came from my mother because he's been moving further and further from my mind as the days go by."

"You never know." Daichi shrugged. "Maybe you need to reexamine what you want without the influence of your mother."

Sakura nodded. "Maybe…"

"Hey, questions of the heart can wait." Daichi closed the door and stepped out. "Let's just get out there and have fun."

Sakura nodded. "Yeah, let's go."

Hyuga Compound

Naruto walked up to the gate of the compound which had a familiar looking Hyuga guarding it. It was that same Hyuga who came to get Daichi a few days back. The same Hyuga with fair skin yet spiky raven hair.

"Naruto Uzumaki." Naruto was nervous. "I'm expected… I think."

The Hyuga nodded with a smile. "Ah, Naruto Uzumaki. Of course, follow me." The Hyuga led the way into the compound and up to the main house only for Hinata and Hiashi to step out. "Lord Hiashi, Naruto Uzumaki is here for his date with Lady Hinata."

"Thank you, Mizu." Hiashi nodded. "You may return to the gate."

"As you wish sir." Mizu stated before leaving.

Naruto stood before Hiashi. "Lord Hiashi."

"Naruto." Hiashi nodded. "As Hinata's father, may I ask what you have planned this evening?"

"Hinata and I agreed to attend the festival together sir." Naruto stated. "Nothing extreme."

"That sounds like a nice night." Hiashi stated. "Now, I know she's a Kunochi, but I'd still like her home by eleven. Of course, I can't legally stop you two from doing anything given your status as Shinobi." He smiled. "That said, you do anything inappropriate with my daughter, and we'll have a conversation that you're not going to like."

Naruto gulped.

Hinata blushed. "Dad!"

"Sorry Hinata." Hiashi genuinely smiled. "Just me being a father. Go have fun you two."

Konoha: Festival Grounds…

Sakura and Daichi had been walking around trying a little of all the food. Daichi currently had one of every dumpling from a stand while Sakura ate some anmitsu.

Sakura was over the moon. "I love anmitsu!"

Daichi chuckled. "It was good, but I'm personally digging these dumplings. The chicken is my favorite."

They suddenly stopped when they noticed Sasuke duck into an alley.

Daichi walked over with Sakura following. "Hey man, what's going on?"

Sasuke looked at him. "Shh. Keep your voice down." He whispered. "I got hungry and decided to come out for dinner. It was a mistake because I was swarmed by fan girls. Now, I'm trying to stay hidden."

Daichi and Sakura looked around noticing quite a few females frantically looking around.

"Don't worry, I got you covered." Daichi passed him the dumplings before weaving hand signs. "Shadow Clone Jutsu."

4 Daichi's appeared and they wove their own hand signs. "Transformation Jutsu."

They each became a Sasuke and moved out into areas where they could clearly be seen.

"What's that Sakura?" Daichi questioned. "You're telling me Sasuke is here?"

Sakura played along. "Oh yeah, I see him over there!"

The various girls looked around before certain girls laid their eyes on certain clones. Those clones immediately ran away from the festival grounds.

All the fan girls shouted. "It's Sasuke!"

The various fan girls began chasing whatever Sasuke they saw first.

"Thank you, Daichi." Sasuke was relived. "I owe you one."

"Don't think anything of it." Daichi happily stated. "What are friends for?"

Sasuke backed out of the alley only to bump into Tenten. "Oh, sorry. Fan girls."

"Don't worry about it." Tenten shook her head. "I never understand how some girls could scream that loud. Let alone over boys." She looked at Sasuke. "You know, I thought you were stuck up, but now I see you've been overwhelmed."

"You have no idea." Sasuke smirked. "You were never like that?"

"No way." Tenten stated. "I wanted to become a Kunochi like Lady Tsunade, and I'm working to make that dream a reality."

"Huh, hey are you doing anything?" Sasuke questioned.

"Not really. Lee and Karin went out for a date, so I came alone to check things out." Tenten shrugged. "I'm not busy."

"Want to walk around the festival together and get a bit to eat?" Sasuke asked.

Tenten got an idea as she smiled. "You know, I hear you're good with kunai and shuriken. Want to see who's better at the toss?"

Sasuke smirked. "You're on."

The two walked off together and Daichi sighed. "Aww, he took my dumplings, and I still had half a plate."

Sakura smiled. "I'll buy you more."

"Thanks." Daichi looked at her. "Are you broken up about Sasuke and Tenten basically going on a date?"

Sakura shook her head. "You know, not really." She walked on. "Come on, there's still plenty of festival to enjoy."

Daichi nodded. "Let's get to it then."

Kakashi was sitting in a tree nearby as he went about observing his students. "So many people would have been proud of their children."

Hyuga Compound

Naruto came to the front gate with Hinata. "I had fun tonight Hinata."

"It was wonderful." Hinata nodded with a smile. "I did to. Thank you, Naruto."

Naruto rubbed the back of his head. "Any chance you'd maybe want to do this again?"

Hinata hugged him tight. "I'd love to."

"Really?" Naruto smiled. "That's great!"

At that moment, Hiashi walked out the front gate causing Naruto to pull back. "Lord Hiashi, sir. I assure you I didn't do anything you'd consider inappropriate."

"I know Naruto. I have my ways of finding out." Hiashi smiled. "I know you were a respectable gentleman, so I will allow you to continue seeing my daughter."

Naruto let out a sigh of relief before looking at Hinata. "Well, I guess I'll see you around."

He ran off.

Haruno Residence

Daichi, upon his insistence, had walked Sakura home.

"You didn't have to walk me home." Sakura stated. "I can take care of myself."

"I'm aware." Daichi chuckled. "Guess I'm a little jumpy after what happened with your mother. Plus, my own mother, in the many things she taught me, made sure I knew how to be a gentleman. Fangirls were the exception in her teachings."

"It was really sweet of you to bring me here." Sakura kissed his cheek. "Thanks for coming out with me tonight."

Daichi was surprised. "Oh, uh… you're welcome Sakura."

Sakura smiled. "I'll see you around."

"Yeah, see you around." Daichi walked off. "Huh… Is it possible I may like Sakura?" He frowned. "Naruto liked her first. Even though she clearly didn't like him, is it right to have these feelings?"

Sakura watched him go with a smile. "I think I may be developing feelings for Daichi." She smiled at that thought as she walked inside. "I at least want to spend more time with him."

Senju Compound

Sasuke had walked Tenten back to her Clan Compound as any gentleman should. Imagine his surprise when he found out Tenten was to become a Senju. Of course, he kept such emotions internalized.

"I'll admit, this was nice." Sasuke stated.

Tenten nodded. "Yeah, you're not a bad guy."

After that they lingered awkwardly.

Sasuke eventually broke the silence. "Hey, would you like to train together, sometime?"

Tenten smiled. "You know, I'll take you on any day."

Sasuke nodded. "Guess I'll see you around."

He walked off.

Council Meeting, Days Later…

Tsunade took her seat at the head of the table while Shizune stood behind her awaiting the vote on the Senju Clan. All the other council members were already there. The Shinobi council currently consisted of 10 clans.

Those were the Nara, Yamanaka, Akimichi, Aburame, Hyuga, Uchiha, Fusion, Aburame, Inuzuka, and Kurama. The council members were Shibi Aburame, Choza Akimichi, Shikaku Nara, Inochi Yamanaka, Hiashi Hyuga, Tsume Inuzuka, Asuma Sarutobi, and Unkai Kurama.

Of course, the recently made Chunin, Sasuke Uchiha and Daichi Ryu, were there as well. The civilian side consisted of 12 prominent civilians which included the three elders. Most prominent of whom was Danzo Shimura, retired ninja and leader of Root, as well as two other elders.

"Everyone seems to have arrived promptly for this meeting." Tsunade stated. "That is good because there is much to discuss. The first order of business I'd like to bring to the table is the proposal to revive the Senju Clan."

Murmurs passed though the councils. Sasuke and Daichi remained quiet until their input was needed on votes. Neither had spoken with the other beforehand, but both had decided to observe. Except for one moment Daichi was to speak.

Shikaku decided to help things along as he was one of the few in the know concerning the Hokage's plans. "What do you mean Lady Hokage?"

Tsunade smiled. "The Senju Clan has never had an established Bloodline Limit. It is a miracle that Sakura Senju such an ability, but it is not the ability of the Senju Clan. The Clan itself has always focused in all areas of being a Shinobi.

As such, we are in a unique position to give Konoha a morale boost as well as a powerful message that all other villages will hear. In these times, a powerful message is what we need to remind other villages, and our people of Konoha's power."

"Tsunade has already adopted Shizune." Danzo was conflicted. "She'll be named Senju Clan Head giving Tsunade another who'd agree with her. On the other hand, there likely won't be anyone who opposes on the Civilian side. I can't oppose this. Especially given the fact that she's right about the protection a revived name can provide."

"I motion to approve Lady Tsuande's request." Shikaku stated.

"Seconded." Every member stated.

"With the motion passing, I've already filled out the proper paperwork for several adoptions." Tsunade stated. "Some into my direct family while others into the clan. If you look at the papers before you, you'll see it's in order. Shizune is my adopted daughter and will be Clan Head.

A Genin named Tenten is another of my daughters. Genin Sakura, Jonin Yamato, and retired Chunin Kai are officially adopted into the clan." She looked at Shizune. "Shizune Senju, you may take your seat."

Shizune nodded. "Yes, Lady Hokage."

A civilian with well-groomed black hair, matching eyes, and fair skin spoke up. "This has been quite fascinating and happens to bring the topic many of us wish to discuss to light more so than before. That is about clan heirs.

Asuma, Daichi, Sasuke, and Shizune need to be married and have children. Especially since Hisashi and Hagane Ryu prove that life is fleeting. Clans are fragile. As it stands, two clans are on the verge of extinction. I insist we come to an understanding on this."

His words clearly rubbed many of the Clan Heads, including those named, the wrong way.

Asuma maintained his composure and spoke up. "The four of us you mentioned are seated on the council, and I believe we can all agree how important it is that any Shinobi consider having children as soon as possible; however, forcing a relationship usually leads to a loveless marriage.

That is no environment for a child let alone a future Shinobi. After all, there are many stresses and trauma that happen in our line of work. We should do our best to limit those. Frankly, if we're making attempts, serious or just beginning, we should be fine."

The civilian looked at the four Shinobi in question. "Are the four of you looking for a relationship?"

Asuma said, "Nothings set in stone, but I'm looking."

"I'm here to be a proper Clan Head for the Senju, so I'll start looking." Shizune stated.

Sasuke closed his eyes. "I'm uncertain if anything will happen, but I've started to look."

Daichi said, "I'm aware of my Clan's unfortunate inability to get off the ground. Rest assured, I'll be looking; however, I refuse to rush into anything."

"I believe we're ready to move on." Shibi stated.

Tsunade nodded to Daichi letting him know that enough time had passed.

Daichi took out a scroll. "I do have something I wish to bring to the council's attention."

Flashback: Tsunade's Office, Couple of Hours Earlier

Daichi and Tsunade had discussed the plan for the council meeting in detail. Once the Council seemed unaware, meaning they got through some unrelated yet important topics, Tsunade would nod at him. The Fusion member was then supposed to issue the duel they'd come up with.

Daichi was worried. "Lady Tsunade, I don't think I can go through with this."

"You already issued a duel against the Hyuga Council." Tsunade stated. "This isn't much different."

"That duel is one that only risks me. The duel you're talking about is one that puts the whole village at risk. From what you've told me of the Foundation, I'm not sure I could beat the opponent they would choose." Daichi explained.

"I'm confident you can beat whomever Danzo throws your way, and it's not the end of the world should you fail. One way or another, I'll gain control of the council. Either way, this route leads to less bloodshed." Tsunade assured.

"You're right Lady Tsunade." Daichi sighed. "I'll make sure to win. Just promise me you will keep everyone out of this fight no matter what. They could claim a win based on interference, and I do not want to see my comrades hurt because of this."

"I promise." Tsunade smiled. "Now you best get to writing the duel up."

Meeting Room

Daichi sat the scroll before him.

"The Konoha Council is divided. The Shinobi Council votes one way while the Civilian Council votes for whatever suits them. In the end, the Shinobi Council can only stall proceedings. That is why I am utilizing my right to challenge the Civilian Council to a Duel."

"What are your terms?" Danzo asked while carefully watching Daichi.

"Should every member of this council agree, we will meet at the arena in 2 hours. I will face any Chunin the Civilian Council picks. If I win, the Civilian Council will be disbanded until Lady Tsunade has new rules in place and hand picks a new council.

If I lose, the Civilian Council will be the only council for Konoha. There are two rules. Your Chunin must be a registered with the village and they can't come from Teams 7, 10, or 8. Winner will be decided by death or knockout."

Sasuke looked at Daichi. "He worked this out with the Hokage, so I'll support him."

The Clan Heads observed the Civilian Council to see what their reaction would be. Every member was thinking that it sounded too good to be true. If they won, they would get their greatest wish granted.

"I agree to these terms." Danzo stated calmly.

With their line of thinking, and Danzo on board, it didn't take long for the Civilian Council to agree. The Shinobi Council were all for the duel because getting a better Civilian Council greatly appealed them. The duel was signed and given to Tsunade.

"With that, we are to halt this meeting until such time as the outcome of the duel has been decided." Tsunade stated.

Every member left the room to prepare for the match that would decide the fate of Konoha.

Root

Danzo waited patiently for the one he summoned to arrive. Just as he expected, he did not have to wait long. A young man, who was 2 years older that Daichi, walked up to Danzo and knelt before him.

This Shinobi had grey hair, green markings on his face, and small red horns on his head. His attire consists of blue and red robes with a belt. The buckle was green and had a dragon on it. He also had a large scroll strapped to his back with a carved dragon's head on one end.

The man spoke with no emotion. "You called for me Lord Danzo."

"Kuroma, the time has come for you to complete your long-standing mission. Be at the arena in 2 hours to face Daichi Ryu."

"Understood."

Naruto's Apartment

Naruto heard a knocking at his door and answered it to see Daichi. "Hey, what's up? Has Lady Tsunade given us a mission?"

Daichi shook his head. "No, I actually need to talk with you about something important."

"Huh?" Naruto stepped aside. "Sure, come on in."

Daichi entered and leaned against the wall. "I've recently issued a duel to Konoha's Civilian Council. I won't go into detail, but I'm going to take on a Chunin." He looked at Naruto. "I need you to give me your word that you won't interfere."

Naruto looked at his best friend before nodding. "I can tell that this is important, so I promise I will not interfere no matter what; furthermore, I will keep the others from interfering as well."

Daichi let out a sigh of relief grateful that Naruto understood. "The fight takes place in about an hour from now at the arena where the Third Exam of the Chunin Exams took place."

Naruto held out his fist. "I know you can win."

Daichi bumped it. "I will do my best."

Daichi left and Naruto went about gathering the other members of the Konoha 12.

Arena Stands: With Rest of Konoha 12, Some Time Later…

Lee, Tenten, Karin, Hinata, Kiba, Shino, Ino, Shikamaru, Choji, Naruto, and Sakura sat together and watched as Daichi walked onto the field.

Choji was munching on some chips. "Does anyone know who Daichi's fighting?"

Everyone turned to Naruto. "All he told me was that he was fighting some Chunin."

"Alright, but what does this match really have to do with Daichi?" Tenten asked before looking at the council. "I don't think the whole Konoha Council would be here unless it was important."

Everyone turned their attentions to Shikamaru since he was the smartest of them. "If I had to take a guess, I'd say this match has to do with the power struggle of the council."

"What does that mean?" Naruto asked confused.

Shikamaru sighed. "Simply put, there are two councils of Konoha. The Shinobi Council and the Civilian Council. They are supposed to work together for the betterment of Konoha, but the current members of the Civilian Council are corrupt.

Daichi has most likely used the rights bestowed onto him as head of the Fusion Clan to challenge the Civilian council. I can't really say what either side gets if they win, but I'd place money on the disbandment of either council."

With the Council

Both halves of the council were sitting apart from each other.

Choza turned to Sasuke. "Sasuke Uchiha, you know Daichi's fighting abilities better than any of us. Do you think he can win?"

Sasuke nodded. "I'd say he has a chance."

The other member of the Shinobi Council relaxed a bit upon hearing that.

Battlefield

Daichi entered the main part of the arena and looked around. He noticed the council members. Then his friends who sat away from them. Finally, he noticed his opponent who was walking towards the middle of the arena.

Daichi looked at the Chunin. "Dark blue robes with red trim, light purple pants that are kept up by a belt with a green buckle. Medium length, gray hair. Yep, this is Kuroma Tatsushiro."

Eventually, the two Chunin stood across from each other and immediately got into their respective stances.