Chapter 23 Revelations and New Beginnings
I'm back! After spending a good amount of time rewriting the previous chapters we're back with the next installment in RotW. As always I don't own Naruto just my own OC. Now let's get this show on the road!
-Present-
Looking up at her father the bluenette looks up at him in awe. "Is that why Itachi-oji's wife doesn't like you?" Tilting his head back as he laughs loud enough to draw the attention of those below the man's laugh barely stops when he looks back down at his daughter nodding. "So do you wanna hear what happened next hime?" Nodding quickly his sweet daughter tightens her grip on him as he takes another breath. "Alright so.."
-1 month after leaving Konoha-
In the month since leaving Konoha the Naruto had been surprised how far they had traveled before Jiraiya had begun training him. Sitting atop a tree within the Land of the Moon he smiled as the smell of the sea was still present. "It's nice here. And Kaito-nii is supposed to visit soon." Hearing Jiraiya call him down for lunch the Uzumaki boy quickly drops down the tree using his chains to swing from branch to branch. Landing lightly on the forest floor he laughs a bit at Jiraiya rolling his eyes. "You're still using your chains like that? You sure you aren't a Sarutobi brat?"
Sticking his tongue out and blowing a raspberry at Jiraiya Naruto sits down on a rock next to their field kitchen. "So Pervy Sage what's for lunch today?" Rolling his eyes Jiraiya lifts a lid off of one of his pots revealing a delicious smelling stew with all kinds of game and vegetables in it. "I've also got some fresh bread sealed up." As the two begin to eat Naruto opens a scroll and lays it out across his side of the table. Looking over his food Jiraiya blinks in surprise before leaning forward.
On the scroll is a series of weapons or equipment with the name of his friends next to each one. Noticing Jiraiya's attention Naruto smirks before pushing the scroll forward with his chains. "Like the ideas?" Looking over it in more detail Jiraiya's eyes widen at the notes Naruto had already added that range from weaknesses his friends have like Lee's lack of jutsu to ways to bolster their strongest areas like seals to further focus Neji's Jyūken strikes.
"This...This is amazing.", smirking a bit Jiraiya looks at Naruto intently much to his surprise, "Who are you and what have you done with my idiot student?" Blowing another raspberry at Jiraiya before taking another bite Naruto emphasizes a spot on the bottom that has notes on his new chakra blade. "I think I could replicate it's effects on my kunai but I'm wondering if that would be worth it." Shrugging his shoulders Naruto finishes the last of his soup and bread before standing to wash his bowl and utensils.
Looking over the scroll again Jiraiya has to hold in a chuckle at the obviously greater amount of work he's put into the plans for Hinata compared to all the others. "Oh he's definitely like his mom." At that thought Jiraiya looks up realizing why Kaito is showing up today so close to his first child's birth. As he wonders how Naruto will take the news he nervously reaches for the small scroll hidden in his haori containing Minato and Kushina's legacies for him.
As the day goes on Jiraiya and Naruto work together on the planned gifts even as the sun slowly dips over the horizon. Watching the setting sun from atop a massive tree the two decide to relax as down below Naruto's clones grumble while cooking for the two of them. When the smell of the barbecued pork and chicken with the fried rice finally reaches the two they walk down the tree even as a familiar shape crosses effortlessly through the seals surrounding their little home.
"KAITO-NII!" Jumping the last few feet Naruto blitzes towards Kaito and nearly knocks him back with a flying tackle even as the older Uzumaki laughs and hugs him back. "So otōto how's your training going with the pervert?" Shouting in indignation Jiraiya throws his hands in the air in feigned anger even as Naruto laughs uproariously at him. "Yeah yeah laugh it up brat. Just remember this pervert can still whoop your as..butt every day of the week."
"Oh my the legendary Sannin Jiraiya of Mt Myōboku can defeat a recently promoted Chunin. Look how amazing he is..." Tossing a empty bowl at Kaito even as he laughs Jiraiya rolls his eyes at the two Uzumakis. "Yeah yeah pick on the legendary sage and sealmaster of Konoha why don't you." Even as the three laugh while sitting down and begin eating their meal Naruto quickly notices both Jiraiya and Kaito seem somewhat tense.
As the last dish is washed and left out to dry by Kaito's clones both men pull out small envelopes. Noticing the familiar writing on one Naruto has to restrain himself from running forward and grabbing it from Jiraiya's hand. "Naruto I need you to promise me you'll sit and listen to all we have to say. No matter how you're feeling, can you do that?" While he's confused by Jiraiya's request Naruto nods even as he looks between him and the envelope with his mom's writing on it.
"First things first Naruto do you know why I was asked to take you on as an apprentice? And why I've come by your clan's place so many times in the last few years?", as Naruto shakes his head Jiraiya takes a steadying breath, "The truth is Naruto your mother and father asked me to be your godfather Naruto." Looking up at Jiraiya Naruto's emotions visibly shift from one extreme to another as he tries to speak. "Bu...But why? And wh...why didn't you tell me earlier!?"
Before Naruto can say anymore Kaito drops the envelope in his hands and wraps Naruto up in a hug to silence him. "Shhh otōto shhh it's ok. We'll explain everything but we have more to tell you. Ok?" As Naruto nods he looks between the two with eyes filled with questions and anger at having things hidden from him. "I already know you're wondering why I was asked and accepted, right?", as Naruto nods again Jiraiya holds up the two envelopes in his hand, "The reason is simple I was your father's sensei."
Eyes widening Naruto looks up at Kaito who smiles and nods at his unasked question. "My...My father was the Yon...Yondaime...I'm Minato N..Namikaze's son?" Nodding Jiriaya holds up the yellow envelope in his hand and turns it around allowing him to see Minato's writing. Before Naruto can say another word Jiraiya hands him the two envelopes allowing Naruto to read them if he chooses.
"I know you have some questions but please wait just a bit longer I...I have some news that may be hard for you to take." Looking up sharply Naruto has to put the envelopes down to keep himself from reading them right then and there. "Yo..Your parents Naruto are not dead...They are.." Before Jiraiya can say another word Naruto shoots up and looks between Kaito and him. "What are you talking about!? Of course they're dead! They died the night m...my Father sealed the Kyūbi within me..."
Rather than speak Jiraiya unseals a small photo from a scroll on his hip revealing a photo of Minato and Kushina laying side by side, and holding hands, with a date on the picture showing it was taken just a few days before they'd left. Ripping the photo from Jiraiya's hands Naruto stares at it as tears begin to well up before they spill down his face.
"Kaasan...Tousan..." As Naruto cries and holds the picture close he suddenly collapses though Kaito manages to catch him before he can hit the ground. Wiping the tears away Kaito looks to Jiraiya before laying him down on his sleeping bag. "He's going to have alot of questions when he wakes up..." Nodding sadly Jiraiya wipes his own tears away even as Naruto tosses and turns fitfully. "Kaasan..." Sighing Kaito sits beside Naruto and slowly rubs his back while humming a nursery rhyme for the boy.
Ever so slowly Naruto begins to call down and his breathing steadies. "I'll take first watch you get some sleep we're gonna have to explain everything to him tomorrow." Nodding Jiraiya looks once more at Naruto with tears in his eyes before laying down. As the night comes and goes Naruto dreams of a life with his parents before he see's them die time after time. Watching the blonde resume his erratic movements Kaito resumes humming his favorite nursery song causing Naruto to calm back down.
When the sun rises once more Naruto slowly wakes up and see's Kaito and Jiraiya sitting and eating a light breakfast. "Hey Kaito-nii and Pervy Sage was last night..." Not even saying a word Kaito holds out the envelopes while shaking his head. "No otōto it was not. Your father is Minato Namikaze and both he and your mom are alive. Can we tell you what happened?" Holding the envelopes close Naruto nods before sitting right beside Kaito who puts a arm around him.
"As you know the Kyūbi was sealed within your mother. And while we don't know how somehow it escaped...Soon after sealing it away in you both of them collapsed. We believe it was their bodies trying to protect them from further strain as both exhausted their chakra that night. Sadly they haven't woken despite everything we've tried..." Pulling out the photo Jiraiya hands it to Naruto who has tears in his eyes as he looks down at it.
"Why...Why didn't anyone tell me?" While both men expected the question neither is happy to hear how empty and broken the boy sounds. Pinching the bridge of his nose to hold back tears Jiraiya taps Naruto's bare forehead. "Because Naruto despite how much they all love you those who knew kept it secret to protect them and You. Tell me how would Iwa have reacted if they knew the man they hate is defenseless and has a child. They did it for the same reason they didn't tell you of your clan's survival. I just hope you can forgive me and the other's for it."
Looking up at the two Naruto's eyes are filled with conflicting emotions before he slowly nods. "I...I guess...But I want to see them when we go back...I wanna hug them." Smiling Kaito nods while Jiraiya holds back a laugh even as he nods too. "Alright brat we will. But you better work hard before we go back." Smiling for the first time since their conversation the night before Naruto seems to be falling back to sleep before jumping as Kaito pokes him hard in the ribs.
"Hey don't go back to sleep just yet. I have a question for you otōto, can you be the godfather of my child? He or She is supposed to be born soon and.." Before Kaito can say another word Naruto jumps up and hugs him incredibly tightly while nodding extremely quickly. "Hahaha yes! I'm gonna be the best godfather in the world!" Laughing Kaito rolls his eyes before prying Naruto off of him even as Jiraiya takes a photo.
"Oh I'm definitely going to want a copy of this picture when we get back Kaito." Nodding the older Uzumaki smiles as Naruto lets go and begins to read the letters from his parents. Laughing occasionally as he reads the letter from his mother Naruto zones out the other two even as he slowly begins to eat. Watching the boy the two men decide to leave him alone and jump up into the tree branches. "So you old pervert how's he doing on the seals and jutsu?"
Looking down at Naruto for a bit Jiraiya can almost see a young Minato in his place before he looks back with a smile. "He's burning through the scrolls fairly quickly. He's already learned to use the Beast Wave Palm with the armored gloves and even his tanto. Though I think he's trying to create some custom equipment for his friends." Surprised at this Kaito looks down at the boy who's laughing at something his mom wrote in her letter.
Raising a single eyebrow as he looks back at Jiraiya with a unspoken question clear on his face. "I think he's doing it for a couple reasons. First to prove he can, second cause he cares for them especially a certain bluenette, and third cause he wants to make them stronger. Think back to his days training in the village his favorite ones were always ones where his other friends were there."
Thinking back to the team's training before the Exams Kaito realizes Jiraiya is likely spot on with his thoughts. "So what's he making them or going to have made?" To Kaito's surprise Jiraiya pulls a small scroll out from under his jacket. "I don't think he'll mind if I show you his work." While the two older shinobi read and quietly improve upon Naruto's work down below Naruto continues reading the letter from his mom.
-Konoha-
-Training Ground 7-
As the sun reaches it's zenith within one of Konoha's more extensively used training areas five teams, their Jonin, and others watch two relatives spar on a level that surprises many. In the center of the field Hinata and Neji Hyūga are fighting but not like the rest of their clan. While Neji seems closest to the clan's standard his Jūken strikes seem heavier somehow shattering the ground while Hinata weaves around them almost as if she's dancing.
But it's when Hinata attacks that her unique style truly becomes apparent as her blows come from fingers coated in navy blue chakra and put small holes in trees, the ground, and occasionally Neji's loose clothing. Jumping back Neji smiles despite his heavy breathing as Hinata falls back into her defensive stance. "Hinata-san why don't we show them the jutsu we have been working on?" Showing a level of confidence she didn't have before Hinata nods and has a smile to match a certain blonde.
"Yes let's show them." Taking a moment to center himself around Neji a eight trigrams symbol seems to appear. "I hope you're ready Hinata-san. Doton: Eight Trigrams Mountain Crusher!" Blitzing forward Neji's hands are coated in chakra even as he's obviously holding back a small bit. "Suiton: Kaiten!" Just before Neji can close the distance completely his blow is met by a sphere of water covered chakra.
As the two jutsu clash a deafening bang is heard causing a massive cloud of dust to arise around the two. Watching from the sidelines Hiashi and Hizashi Hyūga have matching smiles as they look through the dust with their Byakugan active. "Well Hizashi I think we can say they will surpass us one day soon." Nodding at his brother's words Hizashi smiles as the dust clears away revealing both their children bent within a surprisingly large crater.
While Shizune and Sakura look over the two Kakashi whistles at the damage done. The ground around Hinata is scored deeply with cuts while it's shattered where Neji's blow struck. Whistling again a bit more quietly to himself at the raven haired woman quickly checking over the two he smiles when she looks his way. "Who would've thought..." Shaking his head slightly to force himself to focus again nevertheless though the silver haired Jonin can't help but smile under his mask.
When the two finally rejoin their friends and teammates they both bow in acknowledgment of the applause they're getting. Waving goodbye the twin heads of the Hyūga smile one more time as they head off to resume their work. "Brother tell me have you noticed how much more confident Hinata has become since that day?" Sighing in exasperation and causing his brother to laugh Hiashi pulls multiple scrolls and letters out of his kimono's sleeves.
"Oh I do. These are just the one's she'e received so far this week..." Looking at the scrolls and letters Hizashi's laugh grows even louder as he pictures his brother having to reject each and every proposal by himself. "Just think of it this way brother...It's practice for when Hanabi is old enough." For a moment Hiashi freezes before he sighs in defeat realizing that Hizashi is likely right. "Daughters are a blessing and a curse aren't they?" Nodding sagely even as he stifles his laugh Hizashi lightly punches his brother in the shoulder in agreement.
"Yes but I'll save my jokes for another time. Tell me how goes our friends work?" Looking around Hiashi's eyes lighten a bit as he smiles at his brother. "They think they've begun to crack it. And they've begun work on the second project as well." Nodding Hizashi smiles before looking up and whistling a short but happy sounding tune. "That's good. Hopefully we can convince the last few elders before they finish. Speaking of them have you figured out how you'll approach our father on this?"
Looking back up as another two walk forward the two Hyūgas decide to shelve their conversation for later when they see who will be fighting. Standing across from each other Sasuke and Mikoto Uchiha bow even as their Sharingan activate. Looking across at his mom Sasuke briefly stiffens as her eyes focus solely on him. Knowing he can't hide a thing from his mother he draws and throws a volley of shuriken even his mom begins reacting.
While Sasuke's shuriken are each met by his mother's the Uchiha Genin throws wrapped kunai between them. Instead of detonating though the tags release a surprising amount of thick smoke that obscures each other's vision. Hiding within the smoke Sasuke smiles under a small mask he'd pulled up. Taking a deep breath Sasuke slices his fingertip slightly before quickly running through a few handsigns. "Summoning Jutsu!"
As the tag's smoke is displaced by a summon's Mikoto and the others briefly see a snake wrapping itself around Sasuke's left arm. "So he's decided to use his snakes.." Smiling Mikoto readies herself as she hears footsteps moving her way. Judging based solely off the sound the Uchiha Matriarch takes a deep breath before holding up a single hand. "Katon: Great Fireball Jutsu!"
Firing slightly higher than usual Mikoto smirks as her son is forced to quickly duck and slide under her attack. Not giving him time to recover she rushes forward with a kunai ready but she blinks when suddenly the chakra around Sasuke's body seems to go hazy partially obscuring her vision of him. Smiling up at his mom Sasuke manages to knock her blade away before jumping back.
"How are you doing that Sasuke?" Smiling Sasuke stays silent as he rushes forward trying to press his advantage. As he charges forward Mikoto realizes the haze seems to be easier to see through as the distance closes though it's still aggravating. Deftly ducking under a strike Mikoto tries to kick Sasuke away only for him to spin with the blow allowing the snake coiled around his arm to strike.
With her leg wrapped up Mikoto smirks as her son aims a kunai at her heart even as one of her's is just under his arm. "Looks like it's a draw this time Sasuke-chan." Groaning in embarrassment at her comment Sasuke lowers his blade while his summon releases it's hold on her leg. "Good job on grabbing her Hakuja." Tilting it's head in a nod the snake seems to smile before looking between it's summoner and his mother. "It was my pleasure Sasuke-san. Don't hesitate to call me in a real battle though."
Dispelling herself after that last comment the summon misses Mikoto's raised eyebrow before she chuckles at how different the snakes are from each other. "So are you going to tell me what that was?" Smiling Sasuke reaches around the back of his neck and pulls a seal off. "Me and Karin devised this as a way to somewhat counter the Sharingan's predictive abilities and Byakugan's penetrative sight. It works by coating your skin in a layer of chakra that obscures the vision of those two dojutsu. Theoretically you could completely obscure them if you had enough chakra but we haven't tested that."
Looking over Mikoto's shoulder at the seal Asuma whistles at how it is both simple and complex at the same time. "Alright let's clear the ring. Kakashi who's next to spar?" Looking down Kakashi eye smiles before looking up and around before his gaze settles on Mito Kazama. "Mito Kazama and Tenten. Have fun Mito she's learned quite a bit already." Shrugging her shoulders the Kazama matriarch walks forward and bows slightly to Tenten who returns the gesture. "I hope you haven't picked up the Scarecrows's reading habits Tenten-chan."
Laughing Tenten smiles even as she twirls a kunai by it's ring. "You know I wouldn't. My other sensei would call it "unyouthful." Much to Mito's surprise Tenten's kunai begins to spark with electricity as she spins it faster and faster before throwing it. Leaning to the side the Kazama head smirks as the kunai flies past her before responding with one of her own.
Sending the slightest bit of chakra into a few kunai she summoned from one of her pouches Tenten smiles as small bolts of lightning come from each one. Creating a quick barrier with just her chakra Mito is surprised when the kunai easily punch through it even if their charge is spent. "Now that is a interesting technique Tenten. But let's see what else you can d.."
"Raiton: Lightning Ball!" Around Tenten nearly a dozen lightning spheres form before she launches them at Mito. Ducking under the first two Mito barely avoids them as they swing back around. "So her control has reached that point already.." Pulling out two kunai with her left hand Mito quickly unseals and wraps two tags around their handles. Waiting till more of the spheres are coming her way the Kazama kunoichi smirks before throwing both kunai and forming a tori sign.
"Fuin: *Wind Shields!" Before Tenten's jutsu can hit the spheres detonate against two circular walls of green wind creating two large dust clouds. As the kunai fall as the tags run dry Mito blitzes forward while launching multiple volleys of shuriken to hem Tenten in. Responding in kind Tenten smirks thinking she has it handled before freezing as she feels a kunai press against the back of her neck.
Lowering her kunai she mentally kicks herself as the Mito before her bursts revealing it to have been a shadow clone. "Dang I thought I had you that time." Putting away her kunai Mito smiles before removing a small scroll from her back. "You're about twenty years too young Tenten-chan. But you're getting better every day. If you want to learn more seals though I'm sure the contents of this will help you." Taking the scroll Tenten's eyes go wide at the Kazama symbol on it the Uzushio whirlpool within a stylized flame.
As the two walk off the field it takes all of Tenten's will to stop from opening it then and there. Lost in her own world Tenten takes a seat on the ground after responding to her teammates and sensei on instinct. Chuckling at the girl's behavior Guy smiles as Anko and Shikamaru walk forward. Yawning into his hand Shikamaru nonetheless is observant of his part time sensei and shudders at what she'll do during their next session if he slacks off.
-Tsuki no Kuni-
Sealing away the letter from his mom Naruto's hands shake as he looks down at the one from his dad. Shaking even more at the thought of knowing who his dad was the young blonde carefully opens the letter. To his surprise the first thing he see's isn't the letter itself but a photo of his mom being held by the Yon..his father. Shaking his head Naruto smiles at the picture upon seeing how happy his parents are in it.
Putting the photo down gently Naruto begins to read the letter his father had apparently left for him. Chuckling a bit at parts about his mon and Jiraiya Naruto remains in his own little world as Jiraiya and Kaito watch him. "You know Pervy Sage he took this alot better than I expected." Nodding Jiraiya opens a bottle of sake before offering it to Kaito before pulling out a second. "He's a tough kid I'll give him that. He's taken everything I've thrown his way and come back wanting more. I think next month I'm going to take him to Tetsu no Kuni to learn from them. I've got some friends there who can teach him some more kenjutsu. Plus it'll help us lose any spies."
Jumping down Kaito begins cooking a late dinner for the trio while Jiraiya sots above and begins writing in his notepad. As dinner is just about ready Naruto seals his father's letter away before falling back and laying down. "Hey Kaito-nii do you think Tousan would be proud of me?" Not even looking back a chain comes from Kaito's back and not so gently taps on Naruto's forehead. "Yes you idiot. More than anything else that man was excited to be a father. If he was awake I'm sure he would be the proudest man alive."
-Konoha-
-next day-
Sitting in his office Itachi mutters darkly as he looks out the window once more. "I'm going to have that knucklehead on Gate duty for months when he gets back." Running a hand down his face Itachi sighs before he resumes working alongside the clones he'd made earlier. Going over the reports from Konoha's spymaster and his informants across the world. "So Orochimaru's remaining men have scattered but Kabuto still hasn't been seen.."
Looking up as one of his clones rises Itachi is surprised when it places a paper down in front of him. "We located a few of Orochimaru's old bases. Should we send teams in to clear them? We may discover leads on what he was working on and who supplied him." Nodding Itachi mentally begins going over the suspected guards and assigning teams for each base. Pausing for a moment he realizes the northern and southern hideouts will need special attention given their heavier guard presence and prisoners.
"Send word to Jiraiya. Have him join Teams Anko and Kakashi at the North Base. We'll send Kaito alongside Team Ro to the South Base." Nodding the clone heads out to retrieve the teams and send word to those already out of the village. Looking down one more time at the file on the Northern Base Itachi's eyes briefly flash red at the description of them being the source of the cursed seal.
Across the village dozens of teams are mobilized while word is sent to allied villages requesting aid for the mission. Within hours hundreds of shinobi begin moving towards their objectives that range from small isolated camps to rumored major bases for the dead snake's experiments. Leading the strike on the North Base Kakashi briefly eye smiles at his subordinates that range from Genin to Elite Jonin. Steadying himself Kakashi explains their mission's objective even as the group leaves the village in a large group.
-3 days later-
Arriving near the meeting point Naruto and Jiriaya relax slightly when Kakashi enters the clearing. Holding up his palm Kakashi reveals a small but extremely intricate symbol on his palm. Copying him Jiraiya does the same showing his to be a reverse image of the masked Jonin's. "It's good to have you here Jiraiya-sama. Any intel on the base you can share with us?" Nodding Jiraiya motions for those around to join them before pulling a scroll out of his jacket.
Laying the scroll out he reveals a crude map of the base alongside estimated numbers of guards, prisoners, and anything strange in it. "My summons were able to get us this much but there are still areas they haven't explored. Like whatever is behind this door for example", pointing it out on the map Jiraiya shrugs before continuing, "Whatever is in there no one wants to open it. Apparently they can barely tolerate opening the small slot in it to slide in food, water, and occasionally clothing."
Nodding Kakashi looks over the map before smiling as Naruto speaks with his teammates and Team 7. "He seems excited." Nodding Jiraiya smiles as Anko gets Naruto in a chokehold and begins slapping him over the head while ranting about his "stupid prank." Laughing as Naruto tries to wiggle free the two finally call for everyone's attention. "Alright that's enough. Everyone circle around. I'm going to be explaining our mission and your respective roles."
Giving the various teams time to circle around him Jiraiya uses a quick earth jutsu to raise the map for all to see. "This is our objective. It was one of Orochimaru's largest bases hence why so many of you were sent here. Our objectives are simple free any captives, eliminate any of his remaining subordinates, and take all information we can find back to Konoha. To do this we will launch a two pronged attack on the facility."
Turning to the map Jiraiya points out a small access tunnel that leads to it's center. "Teams 7 and 8 you will strike from here. Your mission is to weaken the enemy from within while I lead Teams Hawk, Lion, and Turtle on a attack on their front gate. My first attack will be the signal for you all to begin. According to information my Toads have gathered most of the enemies we will be facing are low Chunin level at best. But there are at least two Jonin level shinobi within in addition to a unknown individual within the lowest level."
Turning back to the map Jiraiya points to a separate location on the map. "This is or was Orochimaru's lab here. According to my intel the traitor Kabuto was here recently. We don't know why but we do know the Oto nin here either respect or fear him enough to have stayed. If you enter this room your main objective is to ensure it is not destroyed by our enemies. Understood?"
-Southern Hideout-
Watching for just below the water Team Ro slip forward without even a ripple before pulling their targets into the water with barely a ripple to show for it. While the rapidly coooing Oto nin's bodies sink the teams of Anbu silently step onto the island. Entering the once hidden base's interior they leave only silence in their wake.
-Eastern Hideout-
Slipping into the base silently Teams 9 and 10 miss the slight ripple within the tank in the back of the room. Unaware of the presence watching them the two teams quickly realize the base is, seemingly, completely abandoned. Watching them from within one of the tanks the presence decides to make itself known to them.
-Northern Hideout-
Moving silently Teams 7 and 8 follow their sensei into the darkened tunnel. Moving quickly the nine shinobi soon reach the entrance into the base and wait. Signing to Hinata to use her Byakugan Anko and Kakashi back away from the door as the veins around Hinata's eyes bulge. With a voice barely above a whisper Hinata looks through the door and wall before them before reporting in. "Jiraiya-san is nearing the gate..And his chakra is different somehow. His intel is right the base most of those within have low Chunin chakra levels and there is only two Jonin level. One of them is near the gate while the other is near the room."
Suddenly Hinata's eyes widen before the tunnel they are in begins to shake as the very earth around them seems to shake. "Jiraiya-sama just blasted the gate back...With a Rasengan..Only it was massive.." Knowing that was Jiraiya's signal the Jonin burst through the door first soon followed by their teams. "The majority of the guards are making their way to the gatehouse...But a few are heading for the door."
Looking at each other Anko and Kakashi both nod. "Anko you and your team head for the door. Make sure they don't open it. Me and my minions will hit the enemy going for the gate from behind." Within seconds both teams are moving as quickly as they can to their objectives while Naruto sends groups of clones out as distractions.
Running past the cells it's all Team 8 can do to avoid those within who are staring at them in desperation. Nodding to Naruto Anko gives him permission to leave more clones behind to help break the people out. As the group closes with the door they hear the Oto nin arguing back and forth as they draw closer to the door. Slowly looking around the corner Anko is surprised to see the "door" looks like it belongs in a bank vault and seems to be coated in sealing tags.
"Whatever is behind that door we can't let them release. Naruto when we attack I want you to blitz past them and place your strongest barrier over it. Fū you target the two on the left, Hinata you hit the two on the right, Shino you and your buddies support them, and I'll take out their leader." Quietly moving around the corner the team explodes forward the moment Anko's left hand drops down.
In seconds Anko is on her target and manages to kick him into a small sideroom while Hinata and Fū easily dispatch their first targets with Shino's support. Using the chaos as cover Naruto seems to weave his way through the fight only slowing briefly to toss Shino paralysis tags. "Make them count Shino!" Stopping before the door Naruto's chains come out as he turns his back to the still raging fight. "You guys better cover me!"
Closing his eyes Naruto begins drawing seals with chakra upon the door and stone around it. Pouring his chakra into the tags he smiles as a golden barrier comes into existence before him. "*Adamantine Barrier." Keeping his chains connected to the seal Naruto turns and faces the others. "This should hold! But just to be sure. *Dual Sea Barrier!" Watching his friends Naruto briefly wishes he could help out before turning back to the look at the massively reinforced door.
"What exactly is behind this though? And why is it sealed off?" Stepping forward Naruto begins examining the seals to try and figure out what they could be holding. "Standard locking and reinforcement seals...But what's this?...It almost looks like a chakra suppressing seal..But it's different somehow." Looking over the seals Naruto almost misses the sounds coming from behind the door.
"What the..Is someone in there?" Reaching his hand through the golden barrier Naruto opens the small slot on it before peering inside. To his surprise all he sees is a mostly bare room before he realizes there is someone in the back. "What the!?" Reaching into his jacket Naruto pulls out a small flashlight before shining it into the darkened room. "Hey are you okay? Do you need help?"
Within the darkened cell a muscular orange haired boy looks up at Naruto. "Please go away. If I'm let out I'll hurt you and the others." Shocked at the man's words Naruto tries to speak but no words come out before he turns as he hears Anko speaking. "Oi Blondie who's in there? And get rid of this barrier already." Turning around Naruto isn't surprised to see the fights have already ended.
"Some guy with orange hair. He says we shouldn't let him out there." Forming a half ram Naruto allows the two barriers to fall while his friends walk forward. "He said he'd hurt us?" Nodding to Anko Naruto steps aside to let her look through the slot in the door. "Hey you!", as the young man within looks up Anko senses something is different about him, "Do you really not want us to let you out? We're here to free my dead sensei's prisoners and end his remaining minions."
Tensing up the orange haired man shakes his head repeatedly while keeping himself curled up in a tight ball. "Please leave me here...I don't want to hurt anyone again..." Lifting one eyebrow Anko shrugs before turning back to her team. "Alright you four begin going through the lower halls and lead the prisoners out. I'll send a snake to Jiraiya-sama. He might be able to convince this kid to come out."
Splitting up the four head off together while Anko summon's a small snake that she quickly sends towards the upper levels of the base. "So brat what's your name?" Looking up the orange haired young man seems confused that Anko is still there. "My..my name is Jūgo.." Looking at him Anko smiles slightly before looking back as the tunnel shakes slightly.
"Well kid my name is Anko Mitarashi. The blonde speaking to you earlier was my former student Naruto Uzumaki who's now the apprentice of Jiraiya." Almost as soon as the Sannin's name is said Jūgo looks up quickly. "Of the Sannin? Isn't he nearly as strong as Orochimaru!?" Narrowing her eyes Anko nods before looking back as she hears footsteps approaching behind her. "I would say he is stronger than my now dead former sensei. But I'll let you ask him yourself."
Out of the dark Jiraiya and the other teams soon join Anko before the door. "So what's behind the door Anko-san?" Pointing to the door Anko shrugs her shoulders slightly. "A orange haired brat named Jūgo. He says he doesn't want us to free him cause he'd hurt us." Raising one eyebrow Jiraiya walks forward and looks over the seals, during this none notice his eyes widening, before he looks through the door's slot. "So your name is Jūgo right?"
Looking up the younger man nods while remaining in the back of his cell. "Yes...Are you Jiraiya of the Sannin?" Nodding the white haired giant looks once more at the seals that coat it. "I am. Tell me brat why do these seals suppress senjutsu chakra? You wouldn't happen to be from that clan would you?" Stiffening slightly Jūgo nods before rising and staring at the older shinobi. "And if I am?"
Smiling slightly Jiraiya reaches into his haori and pulls out a small scroll and tosses it into the cell. "I know of your clan's abilities. I can help you suppress them and maybe the Great Sages can help you learn to control it." Looking down at the scroll Jūgo slowly approaches it and begins reading it. "But...But why? I worked for Orochimaru... Why help me?" Leaning against the door Jiraiya seems lost in thought before he shakes his head and smiles. "Cause you deserve it kid. And cause your clan doesn't deserve to die out."
Looking up from the scroll *Jūgo seems surprised at the older man's eyes. "Ok..I'll come with you...But can you help suppress my powers now.." Nodding Jiraiya begins breaking the seals on the door while directing Naruto to place barrier seals around the area to keep the others safe just in case. As the last seal is broken the hallway suddenly seems heavier somehow as if a great pressure was let loose.
As Jūgo slowly leaves the room he looks around nervously while Jiraiya and the others watch carefully. "Alright Jūgo I need you to sit down right in front of me. And try to keep calm this is going to be delicate work." Nodding Jūgo sits down before Jiraiya walks behind him and begins tracing lines of kanji across his back. "Naruto if he begins to lose control I'll need your chains to suppress him as much as possible understood?", as Naruto nods he allows his chains to rise from his back while Jiriaya briefly looks to Kakashi, "Kakashi you and Sasuke may need to help if Naruto is forced to use his chains. Your Sharingan can help too I believe."
-Eastern Hideout-
Regrouping back in the initial lab they had found Teams 9 and 10 begin sealing away the scrolls, books, and other goods they had found throughout the base. "The base seems to be abandoned. What should we do Asuma-sensei?" Looking around Asuma stamps out his cigarette before walking across the room and standing by before the large tank there. "We know you're in there. Did you think our Hyūga friend didn't spot you?" As laughter echoes from the tank a white haired teen seems to materialize out of the water.
"So you knew I was here but said nothing. And here I thought you Leaf brats were just dumb. So can you let me out? I have a snake to kill and I have to return to Kiri so I can find the Kubikiribōchō." Raising a eyebrow Asuma looks to the side of the tank where a few levers are before shaking his head. "If you want to kill Orochimaru you're too late. He's been dead for awhile. As for the rest how can I trust you won't attack me and my comrades? I recognize your ability as one from Kiri's infamous Hōzuki Clan."
Laughing again the teen smirks cruelly revealing shark like teeth before he moves through the water away from the levers. "Cause you Leaf brats aren't my problem. While I would just love to sever your heads from your bodies I have other things to do. So are you gonna release me or not?" Looking back at Asuma motions for the others to get back.
"Yes though you might have an issue retrieving the Kubikiribōchō as well seeing as last we heard it's being wielded by one in Kiri's rebellious forces. And don't try anything I'd hate to fight someone who isn't our enemy." Groaning in annoyance the Hōzuki teen shrugs his shoulders before nodding. "Fine fine Sarutobi just let me out. It's been way too long since I got to fight anyone and that bastard Kabuto didn't even pay attention to me when he came by weeks ago."
The second he says this the teen realizes he'd said something important as Asuma's hand freezes just before the lever. "What did he do here? We've been looking for that traitor since we killed Orochimaru." Much to their shock the Hōzuki teen begins to laugh before looking over to a large number of empty vials near him. "He took some of the Snake's blood for some reason. I have no idea what he plans to do with it but he was obviously insane. Now let me out already!"
Banging on the glass from within he glares at Asuma who nods before pulling the lever causing the water to begin dropping rapidly. As the water drops Ino and Tenten immediately turn around shouting in surprise as the boy is naked. "Put some pants on you moron!" Laughing at Ino's reaction he rolls his head before rummaging through the drawers before him and pulling out a pair of grey pants, a sleeveless purple shirt, a belt with two water bottles, and a pair of sandals. "Ahh they're still here. Oh and blondie my name is Suigetsu not moron get it right."
Rejoining his comrades Asuma stares at Suigetsu before lighting another cigarette. "If you're done we are going to head home now.", before he turns away Asuma tosses a scroll so it lands on the table before Suigetsu, "That scroll should help you find the rebels. They aren't just going to hand the blades they have over though." Walking out while Neji keeps his Byakugan active so he can watch Suigetsu the teams from Konoha begin heading home.
-Southern Hideout-
Within the hideout Konoha's Anbu leave nothing but dead Oto nin and captured scientists behind them. "Captain the prisoners are being loaded now. And the last of this wretched place's guards have been eliminated. Though we captured two who appear to be from Kiri or another smaller village that have seals similar to the one the Uzumaki said was on Jiro-san."
Wiping her blade clean the Anbu captain looks around the room as the teams begin setting unique explosive tags around it and on higher levels. "Good. Prepare the tags." Leading the Snake's victims and two prisoners up the Anbu ignore the ruined bodies left behind even as two of their number place more tags. "Don't level the entire island you two. I doubt the Daimyo of Nami no Kuni would appreciate it."
From behind their masks the two nod but they continue to place the tags. "Understood captain. I will try to prevent Taku from destroying the island." Rolling her eyes behind her mask the captain simply nods even as the two continue to place the same tags as before. "Quiet Ika. My *Scorch Tags won't destroy the island just this place." Smiling behind his mask the Anbu holds up the tag before placing it down on a nearby pillar. "Will you two quiet down."
Grumbling about overly serious Anbu the two red haired Anbu nevertheless quiet down as they move back up through the base. Within moments the teams and their prisoners have boarded a few small boats and begin moving away from the island. To the eternal annoyance of the others the two red haired Anbu play a game of Janken for who gets to detonate the tags.
Laughing as he wins Ika stands on the edge of the boat and forms the ram sign. "You all might want to hold on. Katsu!" For a moment nothing happens before the sea begins to shake as they hear a growing rumble coming from the island. "Oi Taku I think we used too many!" Before anyone can react beyond going pale the island begins to visibly glow as the stone is heated from below.
Dropping down the observers are stunned as massive gouts of white hot flame erupt from the various entrances into the hideout. Before the flames can even begin to die out the top of the island's rockface detonates and is sent flying high while the stone below it is shattered and begins collapsing in on itself. Rising shakily on the deck the purple haired Anbu captain mutters about idiotic sealmasters. "How many tags do you morons use?"
"I used about twenty three captain." Turning to Ika the captain narrows her eyes at how he seems to be staying unusually quiet. "I used..thirty eight captain." Muttering something that sounds suspiciously like moronic geniuses the captain throws her hands up before walking away. "Forget this. Let's go home. Godaime-sama will want to know what we learned. And I'm sure the other teams are done."
-Northern Hideout-
As Jiraiya finishes the last seal on Jūgo he slowly backs up. "Alright kid you should be good. My friends here will escort you to Konoha where the Uzumaki and some others can help you more. I'll send word once I've spoken with the Elders as well." Channeling a small bit of chakra Jūgo's eyes widen when his mind remains stable and he doesn't feel the urge to slaughter those present.
Almost too fast for the others to see he jumps up and wraps Jiraiya up in a tight hug even as tears pour down his face. "Tha..Than..Thank you. How...How can I repay you? You gave me back my life..." Smiling Jiraiya returns the hug with a smile even as the others smile and come closer as Naruto drops his barriers.
Smiling Naruto stays back a bit before sitting back against the wall while he watches. "He may be a irredeemable pervert but Pervy Sage is still a good man.." Tilting his head back Naruto feels the effects of using so much of his chakra as his body screams for rest. To his surprise he feels a few very familiar presences surrounding him causing him to smile and open his eyes to look up at his team. "Hey guys...Give me a few minutes...And then we can really celebrate." Rolling her eyes Anko shakes her head before sitting down across from Naruto.
"Nah stay down brat even I can tell you're exhausted. Why don't we catch up till Jiraiya-san has us leave the base." Nodding even as Hinata, Shino, and Fū sit down around him Naruto closes his eyes once more. "That sounds nice..." To the other's amusement he's soon asleep and falls over slightly and his head ends up resting on Hinata's shoulder. Trying to keep her face from being too red Hinata looks away as Anko, Shino, and Fū smile and laugh at her predicament. "Well Hinata-san I'm sure you're happy with this situation."
Avoiding looking directly at Shino the bluenette nevertheless nods before looking over briefly at Naruto. Watching from the other side of the hallway Jiraiya chuckles at his godson before clapping his hands together to draw everyone's attention. "Alright everyone it's time we left. Kakashi you place the explosive tags around the base, Anko you and your team are to sweep it for any more prisoners, Team 7 I want you to escort Jūgo here to the exit, and Naruto you're going to seal up anything the others found with me. Let's move."
In only twenty minutes the hideout is swept once more revealing a few hidden caches of scrolls and research data while the rest of the Konoha shinobi watch from the outside. Standing outside the destroyed gate Jiraiya smiles as Naruto places a few of his own explosive tags within the entryway to ensure it's destruction. "Alright everybody clear out! We're going to detonate the tags now!"
Taking cover just over a hundred meters from the hideout's entrance the teams watch before they feel the ground begin to shake. From formerly hidden air vents gouts of flame and smoke erupt from the ground. As the tags nearest the surface detonate the entryway begins to collapse just as Naruto's tags detonate. To the surprise of his friends and the other teams his tags seem to release large amounts of oil before igniting.
"Hey Pervy Sage! My *Toad Oil Tags worked, FINALLY!" As the base falls in on itself the materials within burn fiercely as the oil seeps down into the ruined structure. Facepalming and muttering about idiot students who have no restraint Anko briefly wonders if she should tell Jiraiya to not teach him the Exploding Shadow Clone Jutsu. Sitting further back Jūgo is surprised by Naruto's behavior and turns to look at Sasuke. "Is he always that...excited?"
Laughing at Jūgo's attempt to be nice the Uchiha nods before leaning back against a boulder. "Yeah he's always like that. But he's alright most the time." As the sun sets the teams begin moving back to Konoha while Jiraiya and Naruto head off for the next part of their trip in Tetsu no Kuni. Waving goodbye to his friends and Jūgo Naruto smiles before taking off after Jiraiya.
*-chakra haze seal it works by causing chakra to stick to your skin, partially, obscuring your movements & network from dojutsu users mid B-rank
*-mid C-rank that can be used with or without fuinjutsu
*-the barrier Kushina used when Kurama was sealed in Naruto very strong but very chakra intensive
*-do I need to explain? High B-rank
*-we all know he went with Orichimaru because he wanted him to stop his murderous rages I believe if another offered him that he'd join them in a heartbeat
*-explosive tag with wind and fire chakra in them A+ rank in difficulty & extremely powerful
*-a two part tag that first releases toad oil that the user made or got from the Toad Summons before detonating like a normal tag A-rank