Chapter 2 Rebirth

I do not own Naruto but I do own the OC that I create. If you have any ideas for OC content either PM me or just add them in a review and if I like them I'll add them give credit. This is the real chapter 2 I accidentally posted 3 in it's place. Thanks to SomoaJack98 for catching my screw up!

Staring out at a blood soaked battlefield a red haired beauty more allows herself to feel the satisfaction of eliminating more of those who tried to murder her clan. As the kunoichi turns deep within she feels the beast trying to tempt her to use it's power. Shaking her head slightly the woman quickly rushes off to rejoin her comrades. Moving across the ruined landscape her eyes seem both happy and immensely sad over what has been done to it.

Shaking her head a savage smile spread's across Kushina's face as she see's the few surviving Kumo are taken away with chakra suppressing seals upon their backs while their hands are restricted with ninja wire while the few wounded are taken away as well. Looking down at her hands briefly Kushina stifles a sob at how bloody they have become since Hiruzen has allowed her to join the war.

Reaching her unit's camp she's surprised to see a few of Uzushio's *refugees unloading their gear while others are taken off the frontline. "Kano-san I thought you and your kin needed more time to rest." Barely restraining himself from bowing the man has a grim smile as he looks over at Kushina. "They do Kushina-san but me and my brethren must repay the debt we owe to Konoha. So we will fight.."

Over the next few days the Kumo nin within the Land of Rice Paddies came to fear the presence of the lone Uzumaki and her Kazama kin. Facing seals that their betters fell to in Uzushio the forces of Kumo began to retreat. After weeks of constant combat the two sides eventually pulled back as word of a peace treaty reached them much to the relief of the ever greener Kumo teams. Soon after Kushina Uzumaki would join shinobi like Tsunade Senju, Orochimaru, Jiraiya, and Sakumo Hatake in the Bingo Books of the Five Great Nations.

-Konoha-

Looking up at the entrance to her adopted home Kushina trembled as the memories flowed back and forth in mind. Stumbling past the gate the young kunoichi listlessly looks around before freezing as a familiar pair of arms encircle her. "Minato..." Falling unconscious Kushina seems to shrink into the blonde boy's arms as he lifts her up gently. Jumping up to the rooftops the young Namikaze carries Kushina home even as his body screams at him to rest.

Entering Kushina's room Minato attempts to lay her down only for Kushina to refuse to let go. Seeing the tears running down her face Minato lays down beside her and slowly rubs Kushina's back as they both fall asleep. As the day passes them by the two find their first true rest since the war had begun in each other's arms. And while both would soon be thrust back into the war they would do so fully intending to make it back to that bed each day.

-7 yrs later-

Sitting atop the head of the Shodaime two shinobi lie back on a very soft blanket. Holding the love of his life in his arms Minato Namikaze relishes the rare peaceful day he can spend with Kushina. While the two hold each other down below a few who know them look up and smile at their relaxation.

Closing his eyes Minato allows his mind to drift and thinks of ever more creative names for his jutsu before opening one as a shadow covers both of them. Without even looking up Minato sighs and taps Kushina to tell her to get up. Standing before the two is a member of Anbu. "Namikaze-san the Sandaime has called for you." Nodding Minato mentally sighs before rising and stretching to loosen his body up. "I'll be back in a flash Kushina-chan." Rolling her eyes at his same old lame joke Kushina nevertheless gives him a quick kiss on the cheek before stepping back. "I'll be with my kin."

-Hokage Office-

A few moments later Minato enters Hiruzen's office after being let in by one of his guards. To his surprise inside the room are quite a few familiar faces including that of his sensei Jiraiya. Leaning back against a bare spot on the wall Minato occasionally nods to his comrades as they resume talking. Looking around he notices most present are shinobi previously put on standby after returning home to rest.

A few moments later Hiruzen rises with a weary sigh as a Suna Chunin enters the room carrying a scroll. "I see the Yondaime Kazekage has made his decision. Will he aid us in ending this pointless war?" Nodding the Suna nin places the scroll down on the Sandaime's desk. "He has." Opening the scroll Hiruzen smiles for the first time in awhile before putting it down.

"With the aid of the Kazekage we hope to bring Iwa to the negotiating table soon. From now on our forces will primarily focus on keeping Iwa's forces out of our lands and those of our allies. I have also received word from our friends in Takigakure that their forces will be joining us. Shikaku you will be in charge of our strategy, Fugaku and Minato you two will lead the forces sent to counter any attacks, Jiraiya have your spies watch our enemy's movements, and Dragon your men are to focus on aiding Taki and Kusa's forces in holding their lands."

As the Hokage and his head strategist lay out their plans within the Kazama Compound a red haired beauty works tirelessly alongside her kin on a very special seal. Briefly looking down at the seal Kushina smiles sadly at how it may be used someday. "Our clan needs it's head family and with the death of my cousins..." Shaking her head to drive away the melancholy Kushina rolls up her scroll before sealing it within a very elaborate seal. "I'm going for some food Emiko-san."

Waving goodbye with one of her chains without looking up the Uzumaki elder continues her work. "Have fun Kushina-chan. And tell that pretty boy to come by again he's interesting." Laughing at her casual dismissal of one of the Leaf's strongest Kushina waves once more before walking out the door.

Walking through the compound Kushina waves to those she see's from the civilians to the shinobi of the clans. Heading out she smiles as she hears two familiar voices coming from a shop across the street. Hiding on the right side of it's entrance Kushina quiets herself as she waits her two friends to exit the store. When the bluenette and black haired kunoichi exit they immediately turn and smile at their friend before laughing at her small pout.

"Come on how did you know I was there!?" Rolling her eyes Mikoto Uchiha points at the other girl with her thumb even as she sticks her tongue out at Kushina. "Oh come on Hitomi-chan you cheated and used your Byakugan didn't you." Rolling her slightly violet eyes the Hyūga shakes her head at Kushina. "Nope I just sensed your chakra. You'd think being on my team for two years would help you remember I'm a sensor too."

Grumbling about sensors ruining her chance at a joke Kushina instinctively tilts her head back as Mikoto tries to poke her in the forehead. "Yeah yeah Uzumaki cry about having so much chakra most shinobi can sense you. I'm sure you'll get a lot of sympathy from others." Rolling her eyes at Mikoto's joke Kushina nevertheless joins her in laughing at it. "So what are you two up to? And how are those two knuckleheads? Can I beat them up yet?"

Rolling her eyes Mikoto chuckles at Kushina's question before shaking her head. "I'll have you know my Fugaku is the perfect Uchiha man. Stern on the outside and full of passion on the inside." While her friends groan in exasperation Mikoto laughs as the trio makes their way aimlessly across the village. Nudging Hitomi with her elbow Kushina raises a eyebrow as a unspoken question. "Fine Hiashi-kun is great. He has to act all stern in public but in private..."

Sighing Hitomi's eyes seem to be filled with a strange mix of contentment and amusement. "Let's just say he's mine and I am his. And what about you Kushina? How are things going with your quiet golden boy?" Much to Hitomi's amusement Kushina's face soon matches her hair color as the normally brash kunoichi blushes in embarrassment before nodding.

Letting her hair cover her eyes and much of her red face Kushina smiles softly at the thought of Minato. "He's...He's amazing...I just wish..." Knowing where Kushina's line of thought is going her two former teammates and friends hug her from either side. "I am sure they're watching over you Kushina. And I'm sure they they love your golden boy almost as much as you do."

Wiping a few tears away Kushina smiles before a haunting wail echoes through the village silencing everyone before the village's shinobi begin rushing into action. They all know what that sound means the shinobi of Sora no Kuni have come once more to attack Konoha. Creating dozens of clones without a single sign Kushina directs them to help civilians evacuate while she and her friends rush to the wall. As they reach the wall's top it's damage becomes obvious as chunks of masonry, iron, and wood have been torn from it.

Looking up across the surrounding forest the Konoha shinobi prepare themselves as first enemies come into view. "Enemies moving in from the north, north-east, and east. The largest concentration is the northern group!" Pulling out her jian Kushina takes a deep breath as green chakra begins to flow along the blade. "Mikoto get ready to riddle them. Hitomi cover us.* Fūton: Fuijin's Blade!" Quickly slashing her blade in a horizontal arc Kushina releases her jutsu at the incoming shinobi.

While some manage to dive under the strike a large number of them are sliced apart by it. Listening to the screams of some of the victims as their chakra powered machines fail and they fall to the forest below Kushina's eyes are ice cold. "Mikoto now!" Nodding Mikoto quickly throws a number of shuriken before calling out her own jutsu with the tiger seal. "Shuriken Shadow Clone Jutsu!"

With her Sharingan active Mikoto can see as her initial thirty shuriken are multiplied six times over before they begin tearing into the Sora shinobi. Even as her jutsu further tears through their enemies Mikoto and Kushina drop as three of them dive down at them firing kunai. "Kaiten!" Jumping into the air before her friends Hitomi's jutsu easily manages to block the incoming projectiles before ending just as more shuriken and kunai come from either side.

Caught in a deadly crossfire two of the three shinobi are cut down and fall silently but the third can only scream as his craft's wings are torn apart and he begins to fall. To the man's horror the next thing he sees is a yellow flash near his side before he's suddenly on the ground and violently ill before he looks up in fear. Looking down at the man is Minato Namikaze and the usual happy man's face is stone cold as he holds a tri pronged kunai at the trembling man's throat.

"Kushina are you and the others ok?" From atop the wall the man see's the red haired woman look down and shout they're fine. "You are unlucky. I won't be the one dealing with you. I'll let Ibiki handle you." Before the man can even utter a single terrified word he disappears in a flash of light. Looking up from the wall's inner ramparts Kushina smiles before looking across the village.

While it's clear some of the Sora shinobi managed to make it past the wall it's also clear very few also made it back out and the damage was minimal. Sighing in relief Kushina sits back against the ramparts before she begins to shake as the adrenaline crash hits. "Kushina just breathe we're all fine. The new seals worked and their attack failed. That's it take a breath in...out...in...out...are you alright?"

Taking a shaky breath Kushina closes her eyes for a moment before nodding. As Mikoto and Hitomi each reach out a hand to help her rise Kushina smiles at her friends. "Thanks.." Not giving Kushina time to finish her sentence Hitomi grabs her friend and holds her tight. "Let's get back to our stuff and head home. I am sure we all need to check on our families and a drink. Giggling slightly at the usually serious Hyūga saying they all need to drink Kushina smiles and nods.

Making their way down the wall the three quickly retrieve the things Mikoto and Hitomi dropped before they split up. Walking back into the Kazama Compound Kushina let's out a relieved sigh at the lack of damage to the compound. Walking over to Mito she smiles and waves at her closest friend. "Is everyone okay?" Without looking up from the scroll in her hand Mito nods before sighing in relief. "Yeah thanks to the improved seals bolstering the village's sensing barrier we knew they were coming this time. According to our family in the Sensor Corps the Sora nin we faced was decimated with less than 12% making it back out."

Wincing at the thought of an attack suffering such high casualties Kushina can't help but feel slightly sorry for the Sora nin ordered to attack the village. "Why do they do it? They have to know their attacks aren't working anymore.." Shaking her head at the needless deaths Kushina feels a very familiar set of arms wrapping around her waist and pulling her close. Leaning back into Minato she smiles as he holds her tight while he breathes in deeply. "I'm glad you're safe Kushina-chan..."

Smiling Kushina nods before lifting his left hand and kissing the back of it. "As I am Minato-koi.." As the village slowly returns to some kind of normalcy Hiruzen receives a report from Ibiki. Looking down at the paper his emotions go between joy and depression as plans begin to form within his mind. "Get me Shikaku. We have a invasion to plan." Nodding the Anbu operative disappears in a burst of smoke even as Hiruzen continues reading the information taken from the few prisoners taken.

Over the next few days Hiruzen and his advisors send out multiple recon teams towards Soragakure with the intent of confirming the intel. Eventually as the intel comes back reinforcing the information ripped from the prisoners mind Hiruzen calls for his advisors and Jonin once more. Sitting and taking a draw from his pipe Hiruzen taps a button allowing photos of Sora to be shown. "Our target is Soragakure. According to the reports from prisoners and our recon teams the village has nearly bled itself white. We are going to finish it. In a week's time a force of two hundred eighty Jonin, Tokubetsu, and Chunin will strike at our enemies key facilities. The force will be led by Shikaku."

Looking amongst themselves the Hokage's advisors seem divided between optimistic and wary of such a strike. "Excuse me Sandaime-sama but isn't that too small a force for such a mission." Tapping out his pipe Hiruzen looks at Hiashi before shaking his head. "If our goal was to seize the village it would be. But our goal is simply to break their village. Our forces will be targeting the enemies major production facilities and any of their leadership we can find."

Looking over the list of targets Hiashi looks up sharply with a stunned expression on his face. "You realize what will likely occur if this strike is successful right Sandaime-sama?" Closing his eyes briefly Hiruzen takes a breath before nodding much to the shock of those present. "Yes this is a strike that will leave them weak to other villages. Make no mistake this strike will be a lethal blow even if we only hit some of our targets. If we hit them all the village will likely fall apart even without further attacks."

As the meeting goes on Minato looks at those present and sighs when he see's a very familiar silver haired child standing alone. Separating himself from the others Minato moves to stand beside his former student. "Kakashi I thought you were going to come by yesterday." Avoiding looking at Minato the silent child shrugs his shoulders and looks towards Hiruzen. "I was...busy Minato-sensei.." Sighing tiredly Minato places a hand on Kakashi's shoulder and squeezes it slightly. "Well come by today Kushina and me miss you."

Nodding silently the younger man seems to step closer to Minato even as the two resume paying attention to the mission briefing. Over the next two days Hiruzen begins building his force and sending out small groups ahead of the others. As the sun rises over the village on the day of the mission he looks out at the sixty men and women who's arrival will signal the end of Sora. Taking a draw from his pipe he mods to Minato who begins taking the men and women away in bursts of light.

As he reaches the last squad Minato takes a soldier pill before linking hands with Kushina while the rest of their squad places a hand on him. "Hold on tight." Looking up just before he uses his jutsu Minato smiles sadly up at Hiruzen who nods once as they disappears in a burst of light. Reappearing across the continent in a humid jungle the shinobi present struggle to steady themselves for a moment while Minato walks away.

"So when does our strike begin Shikaku-san?" Looking back from just behind the jungle edge the Nara Head looks down at his watch. "One minute...A few of our men are already clearing the section of the wall we're going over while others place explosive tags. Get ready.." Splitting up quietly the Konoha shinobi begin moving closer to the village's small wall while watching for enemy sentries.

Drawing closer a few of the less experienced nin pale at the sight of the dead Sora nin that their comrades killed. Climbing the wall without using chakra the Konoha forces freeze atop the wall as Shikaku raises a open hand and begins counting down. As his last finger drops no one moves a muscle before they hear explosions sounding all across the village's exterior.

Leaping over the wall the Konoha nin immediately go on the attack tearing apart the first few Sora nin they encounter. Throwing one of his tripronged kunai high into the hair Minato flashes away to it just before it begins to drop. Grabbing the kunai he says a silent pray for Sora's people before throwing it further into their village while forming a tiger sign. "Kunai Shadow Clone Jutsu!"

Reappearing by Kushina in another flash of light Minato's normally happy face is grim as he watches his kunai multiply hundreds of times. All across the village the shinobi of Sora pale as they recognize the jutsu and what it means. Kissing Kushina on the cheek as she orders her squad towards the village's seal and jutsu library Minato draws another kunai from it's holster. "Kami forgive me.."

While Sora's forces knew they possessed both a greater knowledge of their village and numbers soon the cold hand of fear would grip their hearts as flashes of yellow were followed by quickly cut off screams of pain and the overwhelming metallic scent of blood. Looking out from his office window the village head's grip on the window seal soon begins cracking it. "Order my son and the youngest of our forces out. This is a battle we can't win or survive. Tell them to head for it."

Behind the man a masked Sora nin nods before disappearing in a burst of smoke. Knowing he's heading to his death the village head leaps over the window seal with a roar only to feel a quick flash of pain on his neck before he see's his body begin to fall without his head. As his vision goes black the man see's a bloodsoaked Minato Namikaze disappearing in a flash of light before everything fades away.

Over the next hour Sora's shinobi are butchered while their jutsu library, headquarters, armories, and supply depots are looted before being blasted apart. As the Konoha forces begin to withdraw Minato looks down at his bloodsoaked hands and clothing and can barely hold back from vomiting. Looking across the battlefield that was once a prospering, if small, shinobi village he sighs before heading for the rally point. While the forces of Konoha disappear in flashes of light in the ruined village center a young man vows revenge on them and the other major villages.

-1 week later-

Waking up once more after a nightmare Minato slowly lays back down beside Kushina who grabs him in her sleep. Running his hand through her eternally soft hair he slowly falls back into a dreamless slumber even as he dreads the coming missions. Over the next week Minato would be seen less and less as he is sent out with a small unit to force the other villages to the negotiating table one way or another.

Because of the pride of others this usually meant the blonde would return home bloody and worn only to head out again soon after. Forced to remain behind due to orders from the Sandaime Kushina can only try to comfort him on the rare days he's home. Finally after nearly a month of nonstop missions the various villages begin to talk of peace even as their forces continue fighting across the land.

-Kazama Compound-

Leading a worn and silent Minato by the hand Kushina pulls him into a section of the clan's fuinjutsu library he'd never been allowed in before. Led deep into the earth he can more sense than see the seals carved into the walls and floor that hide it's existence from others. Cutting her thumb a bit Kushina winces as the door before them draws off a large amount of her chakra before it's lock can be felt retracting. "Come here Minato I want to show you something."

Entering the room Minato freezes briefly as it's contents become visible to him. Across the room images of the biju and other creatures of legend seem to roar out challenges above stacks of scrolls. "Minato...have I ever told you of the duty my family took on in our clan?" Shaking his head Minato steps forward and looks around the room in awe before focusing on Kushina who seems to have shrunk before him.

"No Kushina-chan, besides leading the clan you haven't told me much of them...Why?" Taking a deep breath Kushina's hands fall to her side before she lifts the bottom of her shirt exposing her navel much to Minato's surprise. "Our duty...is...is.." Before she can say another word Minato wraps Kushina up in a firm embrace while he begins running his fingers through her hair in circular motions. "Is to be Jinchuriki of the Kyūbi right? You big dummy I already guessed that...Why else do you think I worked so hard to master sealing beside you?"

Grabbing onto Minato Kushina begins to cry in relief that he won't abandon or hate her for what she carries. Slowly as her tears dry up Kushina looks up and smiles at Minato before dragging him over to the side of the room. To his surprise there are dozens of scrolls on how to seal a biju but also others on how to bolster a person's bloodline if they aren't a full blooded clan member.

Opening a scroll bearing the kanji for twelve he see's portions of a undoubtedly extremely complex seal that combines both the ability to hold any biju and awaken a mixed Uzumaki's dormant chakra chains. "This...This...You're trying to find a way to continue your family's duty and preserve their heritage aren't you?" Nodding for the first time in awhile Kushina seems almost bashful as she tries to avoid looking Minato in the eye.

For the briefest moment Minato is confused before he begins to blush at what she's undoubtedly thinking of. "Oh...please tell me I won't be having a wedding at kunai point soon.." Looking up sharply now it's Kushina's turn to laugh at the obviously frightened face of the famed Yellow Flash. She begins to hug him hard enough to make his ribs creak before she letting up. Shaking her head while keeping it buried in his chest Kushina quietly says not yet. Shaking his head Minato simply holds her close while rubbing her back.

-Tetsu no Kuni-

Within the heated capital city of the samurai the representatives of most village's sit across from each other while in the center Mifune stands with two of his best. "We are all here to end this pointless war. As your Kage, Heads, and Clan Leaders all agreed upon. Now to save your people needless bloodshed do your duty and let us come to an agreement." To no one's surprise the shinobi present keep their guard up and glare at their enemies.

Sighing Mifune notices a single hand being raised by a Konoha nin wearing a hood. " "You there you wish to speak? Then step forward and remove your hood." Nodding the shinobi walks forward before removing his hood much to the shock of those present. "Hello everyone my name is Minato Namikaze though you all may better know me as the Yellow Flash." Smiling in a way that shows only the smallest amount of amusement at the shock and fear present in his enemies face Minato bows briefly.

"Perhaps better than any of you Konoha has the desire and reason to continue this war to it's inevitable conclusion.", at this some of the shinobi look nervously at each other, "Afterall for us it began with the unjust besieging and then destruction of our sister village of Uzushiogakure. Indeed many within my home still wish to see those responsible pay.", again the other shinobi look nervously at each other, "But...my Kage has decided that peace is the route we shall go for. So let me offer you all Konoha's proposal. A return to the status quo prior to the outbreak of this senseless war, a return of any prisoners to all nations, and a return of any stolen Uzumaki seals, weapons, or armor to Kushina Uzumaki and the Konoha branch of the Kazama Clan."

For a moment all present are silent before various shinobi begin to shout at Minato for the last condition. Smiling while keeping his face neutral Minato thinks back to the conversation he had with Kushina, Hiruzen, and one of the hidden Uzumaki.

-1 week prior-

Sitting within the Hokage's office Minato is surprised when he's asked to participate in the coming peace talks. Speaking with both Hiruzen and his various advisors he's quickly brought up to speed on what exactly Hiruzen seeks to bring about peace. It's only when the topic of stolen scrolls, armor, and weapons that Minato is angered by the Hokage's seeming dismissal of the Uzumaki's plight.

As the meeting winds down Minato holds back to try and change the man's mind but before he can speak he hears two familiar voices behind him. Looking back he's surprised to see Kushina and one of her disguised kinsmen standing at the door. "Come in you two. And Minato you may stay for this." As the three sit across from their Kage Hiruzen packs and lights his pipe before gesturing to Minato with it.

"I am sure you desired to stay to try and convince me not to abandon the Uzumaki's stolen legacy right?" Nodding Minato stays silent as Hiruzen chuckles before taking a draw from his pipe. "I said this because our friends wish to lower other's guard. We both know Kumo, Kiri, Iwa, and their friends won't give up what they stole. So after they argue to keep them as spoils of war or however they title it slowly begin to ease off and let them think we gave it up. The Uzumaki here then plan to retrieve their legacy after their enemies have become complacent."

Looking between Hiruzen and the two Uzumaki Minato is at first surprised by their idea before he begins to laugh. After a few moments Minato calms down and wipes a few tears from his eyes before pulling one of his signature kunai from the back of his flak jacket. "If that's the case then here. Have your team use this if they're in need of a quick exit."

As the Uzumaki takes the blade he seems to zone out while staring at the intricate seal on the handle. Tracing it silently as the others roll their eyes and resume talking about the peace talks he suddenly freezes and goes back over the seal mentally before speaking in a whisper. "This is only part of it the rest is below.." It's only when he hears the sound of someone choking on a drink that the man looks up at the other's shocked faces. "How...How the hell did you figure that out!?"

Scratching the back of his head the shinobi smiles before turning over the kunai revealing the bare back of it's handle. "I noticed there was a tiny line here", tracing the nearly imperceptible line the man smiles, "And that the seal was missing a few key parts. So I guessed..." Facepalming and muttering about overly observant Uzumaki even as Kushina laughs at her cousin's resumed focus on the kunai.

Dragging his left hand down his face Minato shakes his head before looking at the man and Hiruzen. "You two need to keep that quiet. That is the reason no one has been able to make my Hirashin work even after retrieving one of my kunai. Plus there are other things hidden that I learned from seeing the copy of the Nindaime's seal your clan used." Nodding Hiruzen chuckles as he and Minato notice that the Uzumaki wasn't even paying attention to Minato.

Smacking her relative across the back of his head Kushina rolls her eyes as he yells at her before she points to Minato. "Next time pay attention to him then Hisoka. This isn't the time or place to lose yourself in a seal." Muttering about mean Uzumaki women he nonetheless puts the kunai away before apologizing to Minato.

-Peace Conference-

Shaking his head slightly to clear it Minato notices with some amusement the other shinobi are still yelling at him. Holding up his hands even as Mifune calls for silence Minato smirks on the inside as he realizes the old Hokage's plan just might work. "I see your feelings are set gentlemen but until my Kage and the parties involved can send me any new words I suggest we shelve the discussion for now." While the others slowly calm down Minato bows once more to Mifune who bows his head in response before rejoining his village's delegation.

Over the next few weeks a peace treaty is slowly and painfully hammered out by those present even as across the nations shinobi continue to fight and die. As the treaty becomes more and more likely though the Kage and Heads across the nations slowly draw their shinobi back. Eventually as the war is brought to a close after nearly a decade and ten of thousands of deaths the sun rises without the ever present sound of battle or fear of an ambush.

Nearly a week later after leading the Konoha delegation back home Minato smiles wearily at the sight greeting them. Atop the wall and along it Konoha's shinobi cheer while the civilians, students, and village's leaders stand around the entrance clapping and cheering for them. After bowing to his Kage Minato's eyes light up as he sees Kushina standing there looking only at him.

Stepping forward on instinct the world seems to fade away for both of them before Kushina suddenly jumps into Minato's arms and nearly knocks him off his feet. Holding her tight despite the cheers and wolf whistles around them Minato buries his face in Kushina's luscious hair before breathing deep. As the cheers continue Minato slowly lets Kushina down but holds her close with a contented smile on his face. "Alright alright you two get out of here! That old monkey wants to speak with you."

Smiling Minato holds Kushina close before disappearing in a flash of light. Laughing at his protégé's actions Jiraiya heads further into the village whistling. Reappearing by the Hokage's residence Minato and Kushina smile as they see fireworks being let off all around the village. Leading her inside Minato smiles as he hears fireworks being set off by the village's shinobi and civilians.

As Hiruzen's secretary opens the door she bows her head slightly to both Kushina and Minato before closing the door behind them. Through the windows the two can see and hear the village's celebration while Hiruzen watches and takes a draw from his pipe. "It's beautiful isn't it?", looking back at the two he gestures to the couch before putting out his pipe, "I'm glad I lived to see the end of this war. To tell you the truth I thought it would go on forever at times."

Nodding sadly Kushina lays her head on Minato's shoulder as the three sit quietly while watching the celebrations. Looking at the two Hiruzen smiles before nodding slightly as he coughs into his hand to get their attention. "I doubt you two realized this but I'm getting old now.", cracking a small smile as Minato chuckles while Kushina rolls her eyes Hiruzen shrugs his shoulders, "Due to that and the stress this war has placed on me I've decided it's time to pass the hat onto another."

Instantly both Kushina and Minato's focus is solely on Hiruzen as he holds the hat above his lap. "I assume you both realize who I wish to hand this over to right?" Holding out the hat to Minato he smiles as the younger man handles it delicately before placing it atop his head. Holding back a laugh at how happy and jealous Kushina seems to be Hiruzen shakes his head. "So I take it you will accept my nomination?"

Nodding his head slowly Minato gently removes the hat and to Hiruzen's surprise offers it to Kushina. "You should get to wear it too. Afterall half the reason I'm the famed Yellow Flash is you..." Blushing slightly Kushina takes the hat and sits it atop her head before posing a bit much to both men's amusement. "That's all well and good but I'll need to hat back. Can't have people thinking you stole it from weak, old me right?" As the two snort in amusement at Hiruzen's joke he smiles before reaching out his hand.

"Alright so I guess I should tell you how this all will go.", before Hiruzen can say another word the room's windows rattle as a truly massive firework explodes above the village and forms it's symbol, "But let's save that for tomorrow when everyone is too hungover to interrupt." Laughing the two nod before rising as Hiruzen dismisses them to head home for the night.

Going along the rooftops to avoid the massive crowds of shinobi and civilians celebrating the two make their way to Kushina's home. Looking down Minato smiles at how the people can finally relax just a bit as the tension from the war drains away. Looking over the blonde man's heart swells as he watches the one he loves laughing and waving to those below.

As the two reach the Kazama Compound Minato is surprised to see almost the entirety of it's inhabitants waiting for them alongside his sensei, student, and others he respects. Holding a chilled sake bottle up Jiraiya silences the crowd with his free hand. "To Minato Namikaze, the man who helped end the Third Shinobi World War, a man beloved by many, a man known for his kindness, and his love for not just the fiery woman", at this Kushina blushes and smiles, "beside him but all of Konoha. Kanpai!" Across the compound the shinobi and civilians raise their own drinks alongside Jiraiya.

For Kushina the moment is both humbling and hilarious due to Minato's shocked expression. Laughing Kushina lightly taps the side of Minato's headband causing him to shake off his shock and smile gratefully at those around. "Thank you all. But I wouldn't be the man I am today without a few people. Please raise your drinks for Hiashi and Hizashi Hyūga alongside their wives, for the Kazama present who helped teach this golden boy a bit of fuinjutsu", at this much of the crowd laughs at his depreciating joke, "for my perverted but still honorable sensei Jiraiya, and to the woman who captured my heart all those years ago and has made me the happiest man alive Kushina Uzumaki."

Winking to the now completely red woman beside him Minato smiles even as the crowd around them laughs and shouts at him to get a room already. Pulling Kushina in close Minato smiles as Jiraiya hands them both their own bottles that they raise together. Intertwining their arms the two take a drink from their love's bottle even as those around them smile or take a drink alongside them.

Smiling at how happy Minato is Jiraiya decides to let his joke go just this once before chuckling at how the two are so different yet so similar. "If anyone deserves it he does.." Drinking the rest of his sake Jiraiya pulls the two close before wrapping them up in a tight hug. Laughing due to the sake and Jiraiya's over the top actions Kushina reciprocates even as Minato rolls his eyes and laughs. "Sensei what have I said about drinking..."

Winking at his student Jiraiya reaches back without looking and snags another bottle that someone holds out. "To do it as often as possible right?" Sighing at the expected response Minato nonetheless joins Jiraiya in taking another drink. Over the next few hours the celebrations across the village would ebb and flow as those within the Kazama Compound left and returned at random to share the joy.

Sitting atop the rooftop of Kushina's home Minato smiles and lays back while using his jacket as a pillow. Closing his eyes Minato simply allows himself time to relax and give not do or think anything. After laying there for a few moments Minato opens his left eye as he senses his sensei sit down beside him with a bottle for each of them in his right hand. "I take it you're having fun sensei." Chuckling at the blonde's feigned disapproval Jiraiya smiles before laying back beside him.

"Yeah kid it's been too long since we could celebrate like this. And you deserve quite a bit of credit for it...But don't let it go to your head I can still beat you like I did when you were just a newly minted Genin with a not so secret crush." Groaning even as he smiles Minato lightly jabs Jiraiya in the side at the reminder. "Don't remind me you old pervert...But you can't blame me, can you? I mean look at her..."

Nodding without even looking the two continue to relax and occasionally take a drink though Jiraiya notices that Minato seems nervous. Deciding to give his apprentice all the time he needs Jiraiya begins to channel a small amount of fire chakra before breathing out a small fireball. Firing off more Jiraiya scowls briefly as he realizes he messed up slightly. While of a small image of the Toad Boss isn't bad he clicks his tongue in annoyance at forgetting his blade.

"Nice work sensei. Though Gamabunta won't be happy you forgot his sword...again." Punching his laughing apprentice in the arm the Sannin shrugs his shoulders before closing his eyes. "Yeah yeah laugh it up you brat..." Laughing even harder Minato is soon joined by Jiraiya as the two spend some time just talking like they used to. Finally after nearly thirty minutes though Minato sits up sharply before laying back down just as quickly.

"So sensei do you remember that talk we had a few years back?" Thinking back Jiraiya suddenly stiffens as he looks over at Minato with small but very meaningful smile on his face. "Is it the one connected to our favorite force of nature disguised as a stunning woman?" Nodding Minato for the first time in years feels like a teen again as he looks away nervously.

"Y...Yeah it's connected to her...And you." Taken aback by Minato's words Jiraiya looks over at him and raises a single eyebrow in place of speaking. "You know how I want to marry Kushina-hime right?", nodding Jiraiya's eyes widen as he connects the dots, "I..I was wondering if you could..stand in for my father at the wedding..." For a second Jiraiya is silent and unmoving before he grabs Minato and pulls him close.

Hugging his apprentice close Jiraiya nods and smiles at the honor offered to him. Too emotional to speak Jiraiya and Minato fail to notice someone walking up until they cough into their hand. Looking up quickly both men relax slightly as they see Hiashi Hyūga smirking down at them. "So I take it you finally asked him Minato-san?" Nodding Minato keeps one arm wrapped around Jiraiya as the two rise.

"Of course. Now I just have to ask Her...And I think that's more terrifying than any battle I've been in." For a moment both Hiashi and Jiraiya are silent before they begin to laugh to the point both men have to sit down to keep from falling over. Grumbling about annoying friends and sensei Minato nevertheless smiles and sits beside them as they look up to the stars. "You know despite all it's flaws this word truly is a greater place isn't it?"

For the rest of the night the three men sit side by side just talking and reminiscing about their lives while remembering fallen friends and even a few honorable enemies. Finally as it nears dawn the three stumble to their respective beds and crash knowing the coming day will be hard but not regretting it. The last thought in Minato's head though makes him cackle at the thought of any of his future children falling for and marrying one of Hiashi's. "It'd serve him right hehehe..." With that thought Minato falls asleep holding Kushina close.

Hours later Minato is awakened by a very familiar laugh followed by the slightest kiss atop his head. "Get up sleepy head. The old monkey wants to talk to you remember." Grumbling due to his hangover and lack of sleep Minato buries his face in what he thinks is his pillow before he freezes. Looking up he realizes Kushina had at some point turned around and that his face was no longer even with the top of her head.

Blushing something fierce as he remains still somewhere in the back of Minato's mind a side of him he fervently denied existing celebrates. "Go...Good Morning Kushina-hime..." Blinking a few times the blushing kunoichi does something surprising and kisses Minato's forehead before smiling. "Morning Sunshine, so do you like your pillows?" For a moment Minato's eyes widen before he disappears in a flash of light and reappears above his clothes.

For a moment Kushina just looks between where he was and is before she begins to laugh so hard she begins to roll on the bed. Blushing hard enough to match Kushina's hair Minato tries to speak but all that comes out is a high pitched squeak before he closes his mouth with a audible click. Still laughing Kushina can't help but smile on the inside at how easy it was to mess with him. Sighing audibly Minato walks forward before pulling Kushina into a tight hug.

Unable to move now it's Kushina's turn to blush as Minato lightly bites her left ear before kissing it. "I loved them hime. Can I use them again sometime soon?" Eyes widening Kushina tries to squirm out of Minato's grasp before burying her face in his chest. "Yes..." Smirking down at her Minato looks over at his jacket laying across a chair near the door.

Before either can do anything else though a loud knock is heard from the bottom floor of the house causing both to start. "Minato-san the Hokage has called for you and Kushina-san. He said you have thirty minutes to shower and eat." Grumbling about missed opportunities he steps back and kisses Kushina on the top of her head. "I'll use the guest shower. And you better get ready too hime." Nodding the still blushing kunoichi raises a shaky hand to her ear before rushing into her private bathroom.

A few moments later both of them disappear in bursts of smoke before reappearing near the Hokage's residence. Staying on the rooftops neither speaks even as they constantly glance at each other and blush again. Nearing the building Minato cracks a small smile befire chuckling as he looks over at Kushina. "Sooo...this morning sure was something...different right?"

Looking away Kushina nods before looking back at Minato with a smile. "It sure was..." Taking Kushina's hand Minato leads the way into village's heart before knocking on the Hokage's door. "Come in." Opening the door Minato is surprised to see Biwako Sarutobi alongside Hiruzen's two advisors sitting in the room. "Ahh the conquering hero returns. It has been too long Minato." Bowing to Biwako Minato smiles before nodding to the elders. "That it has Biwako-sama", waving away Minato's title the Sarutobi matriarch waves to Kushina, "Hopefully that can change soon."

Nodding the older kunoichi kisses her husband on the cheek before saying goodbye to him and the others. After the door shuts Koharu snorts in amusement at how Hiruzen is staring at the door even as Kushina and Minato quietly laugh. "You know if our enemies knew she was your weakness we'd be screwed you old monkey." Smiling shamelessly at Minato Hiruzen shrugs his shoulders before sighing. "I'm sure Kushina has just as much an effect on you brat. But regardless let's get back to work."

Nodding Minato takes a seat across from the elders as Hiruzen looks out at the village. "Koharu and Hamura I have chosen the one who will succeed me as the Yondaime Hokage." Immediately looking at Minato and Kushina the two elders eyes narrow before they both nod. "He is...acceptable Hiruzen. But why not one of your own students say Orochimaru? Or Jiraiya? Surely those two have the power and ability to be the Yondaime."

For a moment Hiruzen appears deep in thought before he shakes his head. "Jiraiya is the head of our intelligence network. If he were to become Hokage their performance would drop significantly. And Orochimaru...while he undoubtedly is strong enough I have my doubts of him. He's becoming lost somehow.." Taking a draw from his pipe Hiruzen breathes out a small cloud of smoke.

"Minato though is their equal in many ways without the...baggage of either of my students. Plus given his recent actions I an sure when we take this public many of our shinobi would request him." Nodding Homura seems to accept Hiruzen's reasons even if he doesn't fully agree. "I can accept that Hiruzen." Nodding towards Homura the man's teammate smiles and nods in appreciation.

"And what about you Koharu do you agree?" Looking at Minato, and slightly at Kushina, the retired kunoichi nods before looking at Minato. "I agree though I fear he may be too young. How can we expect our enemies to fear him when he's barely a man?" While Minato and Hiruzen both manage to keep their faces neutral at the insult Kushina's eyes narrow as she reaches into her jacket before tossing out a familiar black book. "Page 79 should show you how ridiculous that statement was oh esteemed Elder."

When Koharu refuses to even touch the Bingo Book Kushina snorts before having one of her chains flip the book open. Looking down at the page Minato holds back a laugh at seeing his own entry in the book. "I would say the "Flee on Sight" order from Kiri, Kumo, and Iwa show they already fear Minato." Staring at the Uzumaki Koharu's bored expression changes into one of anger.

Before either woman can say or do anything Hiruzen coughs loudly into his hand to get their attention. "Alright that is enough. Now seeing as my advisors agree with my choice let's begin the process officially. Homura please send word to the Daimyo I am sure he would like to be present during the meeting with the Council", as Homura nods Hiruzen looks over to Koharu, "Koharu can you alert the Council. I am sure that they would like to speak with Minato before voting as well."

Bowing their heads slightly the two advisors rise and leave the room while Minato and Kushina stay behind. Pinching the bridge of his nose Hiruzen takes a deep breath before looking at Kushina's, still open, Bingo Book. "Forgive my teammate Minato-san. She can be...judgmental at times." Accepting the apology with a nod Minato flicks Kushina on her forehead much to her surprise and Hiruzen's amusement. "Kushina-chan you could've left that to me...But thank you hime."

Grumbling about stupid old bats Kushina turns her head away from Minato with a pout. "If you were really thankful you'd take me on a date tonight." Nodding wordlessly Minato wraps Kushina up in a one armed hug much to Hiruzen's amusement. "Minato I think I've said this before but you two act like a married couple already. So why not make it official? I'm sure her clan and your sensei would approve."

Nodding while trying to keep his face somewhat neutral the blonde has to keep himself from reaching for the ring in his pocket. "Oh I'm sure they would. But who know's how she'd respond to me asking? Knowing Kushina she'd think I was joking and then blush up a storm and hit me again when she realized I was serious." While Hiruzen laughs at Minato's words Kushina turns red and mutters about "it only happened once."

Leaning over Minato kisses the top of Kushina's head before whispering a quiet apology. Laughing even harder at Kushina's red face Hiruzen dismisses the two before pulling out the crystal ball created by Mito and Hashirama. Molding his chakra with just a single sign he smiles at the sight of the two walking home hand in hand. Deciding to take a early lunch before the next meeting Hiruzen smiles when he sees his wife walking his way.

Over the next few months Minato's education as a potential Kage takes up more and more of his time before he's forced to ask for a break. After clearing it with Jiraiya he and Kushina depart for Tsuki no Kuni for a well deserved vacation. As the two make their way to the isolated nation by ship Minato smiles at the gift Jiraiya had handed him. A small but well equipped *house on the island's northern coast for them to stay in without having to worry about others.

For the first few days the two spend much of their time relaxing on the beach or visiting the land's more iconic locations. After the first week though the two decide to just relax and soak up their last few days off at the beach together. Relaxing on a towel Minato whistles to himself as he looks over at Kushina laying back on her towel. Noticing his attention Kushina smiles before slowly turning over onto her stomach and motioning him over with a finger.

Letting him walk over Kushina pulls a small bottle from her bag and holds it out to him. "Would you mind putting this on my back anata. I just can't reach it.." Stretching in a way that makes Minato blush scarlet from head to toe Kushina smiles as he quickly nods. Trying to speak only a barely audible squeak comes out before he slams his mouth shut and nods some more.

Trying to ignore his own...risque thoughts Minato takes a knee beside Kushina and applies a liberal amount of the cool oil to his right hand. Warming it just a tad with chakra the blonde smiles as he begins to slowly spread it across Kushina's sculpted legs in a way that leaves her blushing. Trying to focus solely on the skin below him Kinato freezes when he sees Kushina untie the back of her bikini and wink at him. "I don't want a tan line there Minato-koi."

Gulping audibly Minato's hands begin working their way up Kushina's back even as he straddles her back...

-Present-

Noticing his daughter's blush and how she's poking her fingers together the blonde man freezes before he facepalms. "I should not have said any of that...Want me to skip ahead in our story hime?" Nodding even as her blush begins to fade away the bluenette snuggles up to her father.

-Konoha-

Walking into his house Minato sighs wearily as he hangs his cloak and hat near the door. To his surprise Kushina doesn't meet him at the door for the first time since their small wedding. Walking into the house he see's a note from Kushina on the entry table saying she's with Mikoto and Hitomi. Shrugging his shoulders Minato heads into their kitchen to make a early dinner.

Whistling to himself and smiling at the memories of their vacation, wedding, and honeymoon Minato looks up when he hears the door open. "Okaeri." Still mixing the fried with a small bit of soy sauce Minato walks into their small living room. "Tadaima." Looking up Kushina soon has a truly happy smile on her face as she looks at Minato. "...was your day with Hitomi and Mikoto-san?" Looking up Kushina realizes she's zoned out when Minato begins to chuckle quietly.

"Oh sorry...um I didn't spend much of the day with them.", seeing Minato's slightly worried and confused face she smiles, "Don't worry it's good news. Just give me a minute to put away some stuff." Smiling Minato nods before heading back into the kitchen while Kushina heads into their bedroom with a slight smile. "So what did you do today hime?"

Walking out of their room with a hand on her stomach Kushina smiles before taking a deep breath. "Oh nothing special, I just went to the hospital and found out I'm pregnant with your baby." Almost instantly Minato leans back into the living room with a shocked expression. "Huh...A baby..?" Smiling brightly Kushina takes a step forward as she nods. "I'm going to be a mother, ya know!"

Pumping a fist Kushina's smile is beyond just being happy. The newly wed is ecstatic and quickly her excitement and joy spread over to her Minato. "Imagine that. I'm going to be a father.." Laughing a bit Kushina nods before wrapping Minato up in a tight hug as Minato joins her in celebrating. Forgetting about dinner the two sit down on the couch with Minato resting his head on Kushina's navel as he whispers to his unborn child much to Kushina's delight as she runs her fingers through his hair.

-1 month later-
-Hokage's office-

Sitting in his chair Minato smiles tiredly at the young man before him. "I am going to need to place you on a special assignment Kakashi." Stiffening slightly the young Anbu agent and former student wonders how much blood will soon coat his hands. "Kushina is pregnant!", eyes widening behind his mask Kakashi smiles slightly for his sensei and his wife, "So I would like you to protect her." Nodding slightly Kakashi disappears in a burst of smoke much to Minato's slight disappointment at how withdrawn the boy still is. "Hopefully this will be good for him. Ever since that mission he's been scared to open up..."

-October 8th-

As the sun begins to go down Minato walks tiredly into his home to see his obviously pregnant, and still very beautiful to him, wife sitting and rubbing her belly on their couch while a unmasked Kakashi cooks dinner for them. Chuckling a bit at how Kushina has basically adopted Kakashi and forced him to walk with her openly Minato smiles at both before giving Kushina a kiss. "Kakashi that smells absolutely winderful. You know what they say women love a man who can cook."

"I'm sure Minato-sensei..." Sighing wearily at Kakashi's continued refusal to open up Minato briefly considers ordering him to live with Maito before shaking his head with a amused smile. "Nah that'd be mean even for me. Maybe my son will help open him up." Grabbing a cup of water Minato is surprised to hear someone knock on their door at this hour. "Come in!" Again to his surprise it's Hiruzen and his wife who enter the home and their expressions are rather tense for some reason.

"Excuse me Yondaime-sama but me and my husband need to speak with you two.", as she says this Biwako looks over at Kakashi who nods before saying goodbye and walking out, "It's about your child's delivery..." Immediately both Minato and Kushina stiffen before motioning for the two to sit down across from them. "What about my son? You assured me he was perfectly healthy. What coul.."

Placing a hand atop Kushina's Minato quickly calms her down by pulling her close. "Your son is perfectly healthy Kushina-chan...It's just given your condition", at this both Namikaze's stiffen slightly, "the Elders believe it wise for the birth to be carried out outside of the village. And please wait before you demand to know why. As you no doubt know your chakra maintains that seal but what you may not know is that as your pregnancy has gone on more of that chakra is being used to protect and nurture your child. Lady Mito warned us that a female jinchuriki's seal is weakest during 's why she and Hashirama-sama only had two children despite how much they loved each other..."

Eyes widening Kushina momentarily seems to zone out before she shakes her head and sighs in frustration. "They're right the seal is getting weaker. I doubt it could get out but it's a real risk." Grabbing Kushina's hand Minato squeezes it slightly before looking at the Sarutobi couple. "Alright so where will we be delivering our child? Because with Jiraiya-sensei out of the village I will need to be there to ensure the seal remains stable."

Nodding Biwako pulls out a small map of the surrounding area and points at a isolated area that seems empty. "Mito-sama had a house built here for such an occasion. I've made sure to keep it off the village's records and update it. Myself, Kushina, and a few Med-nin I trust will go there tomorrow. Minato-sama we will alert you the moment she goes into labor. Is that acceptable?" Nodding the two smile sadly before inviting the Sarutobi's to stay for dinner though the two say they can't and soon leave.

-Oct 10th-

As the village prepared to sleep none knew of the horror that was about to be unleashed. It all began with the sudden appearance of a masked and cloaked man in front of the village gates. As the shinobi on guard moved they were both ruthlessly cut down with a pinpoint volley of kunai before the man turns to look away from the village. "He's escaped with her...I guess I'll have to miss the start of the fun. Summoning Jutsu!"

Within the village's barrier and sensor headquarters the shinobi on duty suddenly screams in pain as a massive spike of chakra is senses suddenly at the village gate. Before any of his comrades can react a massive cloud of smoke appears at the gate before the gatehouse is shattered and a terrifying roar is heard across the village. To the horror of those shinibi near the gate the dreaded Kyūbi no Yoko barreled it's way into the village shattering homes and sending people flying.

With Minato apparently gone Hiruzen begins to lead his village's forces in a desperate fight for survival against a biju that is said to be capable of ending nations. Appearing in a flash of light atop his own face over the village Minato struggles to keep his rage down. Sensing him the masked man directs the Kyūbi to fire a bijūdama at the man to shatter the village's precious mountain and it's leader.

Staring down the Kyūbi's attack from Minato's feet kanji erupt before the stone below him seems to absorb the attack and seal it away much to his enemies fury. Just before Minato can move to help his people he feels the tug of the unknown enemy's strange jutsu on him and flashes away. Reappearing in a swirl seemingly from nowhere the man tilts his head at Minato who has one of his kunai ready. "Hold on Kushina..."

-10 minutes prior-

Holding his wife waves of anguish surround Minato as he lays his wife down with their son. "Min...Minato...please don't.." Gripping his wife's hand tightly Minato struggles to hold back tears as he looks down at his love. "I have to hime...We have to reseal the Kyūbi and you know what that means..." Looking over at his son Minato wishes there was another way before he looks up sharply at his wife. "Kushina could that seal work on me? We could spare our..."

Before he can say more Minato is silenced by the tearful shake of her head. "No anata it will only work on someone who is of my clan..." Before she can say another word the door behind them bursts open and Mito Kazama and a Uzumaki elder rush into the room. "KUSHINA!" Quickly brought up to speed the two begin desperately working to save Kushina or even just delay the inevitable as Minato rises and grabs more of his kunai. "I will teleport it away from the village. Kushina can you help me tie it down... Our son will need to be the Kyūbi's new jinchuriki..."

Ducking under another strike Minato shakes his head slightly to focus on the fight and not what he has to do. "You're Madara Uchiha aren't you?", as the man removes his hood Minato's eyes narrow, "No that's impossible he's long dead." Tilting his head the other way the man seems to consider Minato's words. "I wonder about that." Pulling his kunai up Minato's chakra seems to still even as his muscles tense.

"At this point, it doesn't matter who you are. But why are you targeting Konoha?" Keeping his eye on Minato the man tilts his head back slightly as if he's playing a game instead of fighting a Kage level shinobi. "I could say I did it on a whim, or that I planned it, or that it's war, or that it's for peace." As the man says this a black chain fall from his left sleeve.

Pulling his kunai up Minato stares down his unknown foe before looking in the direction of the village. "I'll have to finish this fast.." Not giving the man a moment to move as he latches the chain to his left wrist Minato throws his kunai directly at his head before drawing a second and following it in. To his shock though first his kunai and then he himself simply go through the man.

While Minato's mind tries to process what just happens he feels the chains begin to wrap around him. Disappearing Minato reappears right beside his first kunai and turns to face his enemy. "So he can make himself tangible and intangible at will. So whoever strikes first will when this fight.." Narrowing his eyes Minato once more throws his kunai and follows it in with his right hand out as chakra begins to swirl over his palm. To Minato time seems to slow as he watches his kunai go through the man's head while the man's right hand draws ever closer to him.

Just as the man begins to grab him Minato disappears before he reappears above the man and twists himself to drive his right hand forward. Before the masked man can react a Rasengan forms in Minato's hand and is driven into his back forcing him into the ground as he coughs blood up into his mask. Leaping away Minato briefly hopes the blow was a fatal one before he clicks his tongue in annoyance as the man rises.

"Did you like that? It was my Hirashin Step Two." To his shock a white substance seems to fall out the man's left sleeve and his hand seems to be falling bloodlessly off of his body. "So this is what was meant by elusive. To think you managed t.." Before the man can utter another word Minato seems to instantly cross the distance between them and stabs him in the gut with his kunai while his right hand slams into the man's chest causing a seal to appear. "A Contract Seal!"

Going intangible the man reappears away from Minato even as his left forearm falls from his sleeve without any blood. "So you've separated me from the Kyūbi. But it is no problem I will claim it one day." Seeming to disappear into his right eye the man's voice echoes before fading away entirely. Taking a deep breath Minato quickly takes a soldier pill before focusing on the seals he'd placed in the village. Disappearing in a flash of golden light he reappears atop the Hokage Residence and throws his kunai high into the air.

"Summoning Jutsu: Food Cart Destroyer!" To the shock of the village the Toad Boss Gamabunta suddenly appears over the Kyūbi and slams down atop it forcing the beast to fall down. "Minato!" Before Hiruzen can say another word the Toad Boss, Bijū, and Minato disappear in a flash of light before he senses a massive surge of chakra as a golden barrier forms in the woods. Leaving a clone to direct his shinobi Hiruzen rushes out of the village with some of his personal Anbu towards the barrier and the Kyūbi he can see within it.

Within the barrier the bijū barely has time to realize it's moved before golden chains erupt all around it and hold it down. Roaring as it tries to escape the chains the Kyūbi stares down hatefully at Minato and his barely standing wife. "Kushina we have to seal it away. The man who freed him escaped...Is it ready?" Holding back tears Kushina nods before she summons a altar and places her son on it. "It is Minato..." Nearly collapsing Kushina suddenly coughs up more blood before she can feels more chains wrap around her.

Looking down Kushina quickly looks over at a retired Uzumaki kunoichi who smiles at her before lines of kanji spread across her *chains and onto Kushina. "Alina-san please stop. I'm not worth it!" Even as the woman seems to age years in mere moments she smiles at Kushina. "Kushina-chan you have to live to protect your son. Please tell my grandchildren I'll be watching over them with their parents." Nodding Kushina can't keep the tears from running down her face as the old kunoichi falls bonelessly with a smile on her face.

Wiping her tears away Kushina turns to face the Kyūbi before dozens of chains begin shooting out of her back and join those holding it down. Forced down the Kyūbi can't even growl or open it's mouth as Kushina's chains continue to tighten and pull it down. "Minato now! We can't hold it forever!" Nodding Minato bites his thumb and wipes his blood across the seal activating it. "*Twelve Trigrams Seal!"

From the seal around the crying Naruto first one white and gold chain soon followed by eleven others fly out and wrap around the Kyūbi. Barely able to think let alone move the biju is slowly dragged into the whirlpool that spreads across Naruto's stomach. Even as the beast is dragged in though both Minato and Kushina begin to collapse as their bodies finally begin to feel the effects of the fight.

When the last bit of the Kyūbi is sealed away once more Minato collapses next to his son smiling at him while Kushina barely manages to crawl over. Holding Naruto between them the two fall unconscious while their chakra levels plummet. Even as the surrounding Uzumaki rush to them Kushina's barrier collapses allowing Hiruzen and his men to join them.

The sight they see is a bittersweet one two loving parents holding their newborn son together even as their bodies desperately begin to heal. Calling for Anbu med-nin Hiruzen is relieved the two at least are alive even as they and their son are gently lifted and taken back to the village. Looking back Hiruzen finally allows his tears to flow as he looks down at the ground in grief.

Schooling his face after a few moments the broken man puts the partially crushed wedding ring back into his jacket above his heart. Knowing he has no time to mourn Hiruzen rejoins his men even as word of the night's events quickly begin to spread. For days Konoha and her people bury their dead and slowly begin the rebuilidng process even as Minato and Kushina remain comatose.

Sitting in what is once more his office Hiruzen with a empty voice calls in his next appointment. Smiling weakly at Mito Kazama and Emiko Uzumaki the tired Kage motions for them to be seated. "So still no word on when they could awaken?" Shaling her head Mito barely manages to hold back her tears as she thinks of her Kushina and Minato lying there dead to the world. "Sorry Hokage-sama but no...Nothing we've tried will wake them...What should we do? The people are questioning where the Yondaime is..And our clans mourns for the loss of Kushina."

Giving the young woman time to get it all out Hiruzen looks out at the damage the Kyūbi was able to do. "I believe we should lie and say they died..", holding up a hand to silence both women he turns revealing a pained face, "Whether we like it or not they have enemies. If Kumo and Iwa knew that they were alive but comatose they would stop it nothing to kill them. Can your clan hide them Emiko-san?" Nodding slowly the older Uzumaki sighs regretfully at the thought even if she agrees.

"We can. But what about young Naruto-san?" Tensing just briefly Hiruzen closes his eyes and takes a deep breath before releasing it and opening his eyes. "I believe he should be a ward of.." Before he can utter another word Hiruzen is literally forced back by a surge of chakra from Mito and Emiko who stare disgusted at him as they respond simultaneously. "No." Pushing back with his own chakra Hiruzen is stunned to see neither woman back down before he nods.

"Alright fine. The Kazama and Uzumaki Clans can raise him...But his father's lineage needs to remain a secret.", not giving either woman time to speak he holds up a hand, "For much the same reason the world must think his parents are dead. The boy will already have a target on his back for being a jinchuriki. When he is old enough we can tell him who his father is and the truth of his parents. If they don't awaken first..."

*-Uzumaki hiding as Kazama of course
*-picture a very large blade of wind chakra launched from one's weapon, or hands if they're skilled enough, that can tear through most defenses like a razor
*-it's canon he's loaded so *shrug*
*-the end result of a Uzumaki who has healing abilities like Karin. It works much like Chiyo's reanimation jutsu
*-a much improved version of Naruto's seal in canon full details to come later

Finally done with the rewrite & polishing up for a second time lol. Hopefully y'all like the addition of our friends from Sora & the other minor villages. Now back to the start of the timeskip!