Chapter 27 A Unexpected Event

As always I don't own Naruto just my own OC. Now let's get on with the show! Oh & this will be the last chapter for the time skip.

-Border of Hi no Kuni-
-1 month before return-

Within the woods near the border three teams move with abnormal speed as the words of their Kage echo through their minds.

-1 day prior-
-Hokage's Office-

"Get Teams 7,8, 9, 10, 11, and Kaito Uzumaki here now!" Stunned at their Kage's tone the four Anbu disappear almost without a trace as Itachi's Sharingan spins to life as his emotions rage. Unable to stop himself as the crumpled scroll opens slightly his eyes nearly change as he rereads the end of the message. "…Naruto is gone. Send help now. -Jiraiya." Struggling to hold his emotions in check Itachi closes his eyes and breathes deeply before opening them as someone knocks on the door. "Enter."

Unsurprisingly the Teams and Kaito seem worried at the Anbu's summons and the expressions of Hiruzen and Kosuke's faces. "Close the door. I need you for an immediate A-Class mission. Are there any here who think they shouldn't be sent? No record will be kept and it will not be reflected on your records." Looking at their fellows all of the Genin, newly promoted Chunin, and Jonin nod before Kaito steps forward. "If you have a mission for us we will take it Godaime-sama."

Nodding slightly Itachi signals for the door to be closed before activating a series of seals to ensure the room is secure. "Naruto Uzumaki has disappeared…" Before Itachi can say another word the others in the room are nearly sent flying as Kaito's chakra surges to frankly worrying levels as his chains whip around him scoring the floor, roof, and slicing the couch and table apart. "Let. Me. Out. Now."

Sharingan spinning Itachi forces the Uzumaki to settle down before holding up the crumpled scroll. "I will but listen first Kaito-san." Barely holding in his anger and worry Kaito nods as Itachi stands. "We know it was not the Akatsuki. Jiraiya-sama believes he knows who did it and when. And if he's right your otōto is not in danger. He thinks it's Nadeshiko Village." For a moment the room is silent before Kaito walks over to the left wall and begins smacking his head against it again and again.

Coughing loudly to draw the others attention back to himself Itachi sighs. "From what Jiraiya-san has said it may be them trying to force him to fulfill his oath. But just in case your teams are heading out to rescue Naruto. Before they force him to marry one of their own." For a moment the group is stunned into silence, except for Kaito muttering stupid every time he impacts the wall, until Hinata clenches her fists hard enough for her knuckles to pop audibly. "Hokage-sama, please allow us to leave immediately so we aid our teammate.."

Surprised at the usually nervous Hyūga's stern response Itachi has to hold back a smile while Anko has to bite her bottom lip to keep from laughing. Nodding Itachi unseals the room and nods to the combined teams. As they rush out Itachi has a smile small while from the shadowed corners of the room muffled laughs echo. "Someone order a new table & couch. And send for Tenzō." Turning he watches the teams rush across the village's rooftops before quietly chuckling. "Oh Naruto…I hope you aren't in a ceremony when they arrive cause she just might murder someone for that."

-Cha no Kuni-

Jumping quickly from tree to tree Naruto looks back in a panic as yet another volley of kunai and shuriken come his way. "You're not gonna catch me! I refuse to marry anyone cause the Pervert made a deal!" Cursing Naruto leaps to the side as more kunoichi appear before him cutting him off once more. "Give up kid. You will marry Shizuoka-san and fulfill your master's oath."

Looking around in a panic Naruto pulls his tanto out while a chain of his wraps itself around his arm. "Nope. Not now. Not Tomorrow. Not Ever! You're crazy lady!" Ducking under a kunoichi trying to tackle him Naruto kicks the girl away before charging straight at their line. "You only caught me last time cause I was exhausted. Let's see you try it now. Multi Shadow Clone Jutsu!" Before the Nadeshiko kunoichi can react a massive horde of clones bursts through the smoke before they crash into the thin line.

Unable to do anything but fight the kunoichi can only watch as three large groups of clones push through the gaps and head away from the fight. "Send word to the village! Hunt him down!" Knocking away three clones with a single spinning kick the oldest kunoichi almost curses fate for saddling her with this mission before she sighs internally. "Destroy the clones! Once they're gone hunt down our blonde target and his bodyguards."

For nearly a hour the sound of combat rings throughout the woods as more and more kunoichi flood the area to destroy Naruto's clones and capture him. Finally as the sun begins to set Naruto is cornered and disarmed before he's dragged back to the village. "Let me go! Let me go! I refuse to marry some girl cause that stupid perverted Godfather of mine!" Pinching her nose in annoyance the oldest kunoichi walks up behind Naruto and knocks him out with a blow to the back of the head. "Finally some silence ridiculous..I thought he'd never shut up. Take him to the hospital. They'll keep him sedated till the match can occur. And send word to the scouts Konoha won't simply let us take a heir to a clan of theirs."

-2 days later-
-Nadeshiko Village-

Watching the village Hinata's normally soft eyes are cold as she watches the Nadeshiko kunoichi going about their day. Closing her eyes she groans before rubbing her forehead and deactivating her Byakugan. "They're holding him in the central keep. There are around three Jonin level kunoichi, thirteen Tokubetsu level, fourty five Chunin, and nearly one hundred Genin level chakra signatures with many more Academy or below levels."

Nodding Shino and Kiba join her as they pull back towards the campsite their teams had set up in the hills near the village. As the trio enter the hidden camp they notice Kakashi, Kaito, and Jiraiya have returned and are looking down at a map of the village. "We should be able to sneak in but getting to the center keep won't be easy…Their roving patrols are random and they know the ground.."

For a second Kaito looks back and forth between the map and the village in the distance. "What if we didn't sneak in?", before Kakashi can speak Jiraiya motions for Kaito to continue, "What if we gave them the loud, frontal attack they're expecting with most of us while a smaller, quieter team goes in through the back?" For a moment Jiraiya looks over at the other Jonin before he nods once. "That's not a bad idea. Myself, Kaito, Team 7, 9, and 11 will carry out the diversionary attack. Team 8 you'll save Naruto. And Team 10 you'll help cover them. We'll strike at 22:30. Team 8 and 10 you move in once they're drawn away. Understand?"

Nodding the Jonin split up while Kaito places down a few seals before summoning a large green and blue octopus. "Kotaro-sama, my idiot otōto decided to go and get captured. I politely request a small sample of your nonlethal poison." Looking down at the Uzumaki the octopus seems annoyed at his request before it pulls a small bottle out before biting it. As a sickly green pours into the clear bottle Kaito bows before unsealing a large pike fish and handing it over. "Do not waste it Kaito."

As the octopus bites down on the fish it disappears in a burst of smoke Kaito sighs in annoyance and relief. "That's one mean octopus…What's his issue?" Shrugging his shoulders Kaito pulls out packets of senbon and ever so carefully begins dipping them into the bottle before using a small wind jutsu to dry them before putting them down. "He's always been that way. He's a old summon and even the elders say he was like that at a young age." Chuckling Jiraiya nods before walking to his tent and begins his preparations.

As the sun begins to set Jiraiya leads the teams closer to the village before they stop. "Alright remember these people aren't our enemies. So no killing." Nodding the teams begin moving into their positions with Kaito and Jiraiya slightly ahead of everyone else. Stopping a few meters from the village's outer most patrol group Kaito smirks as the quartet moves closer.

Letting them get directly in front of him the Uzumaki suddenly lunges forward with his chains out. "Give me back my otōto! Multi Shadow Clone Jutsu!" Putting enough chakra into his jutsu so even regular shinobi can sense it Kaito laughs madly as the quartet's eyes widen at the sight. Quickly tackling the leader he laughs even harder as the kunoichi's comrades are brought down by clones before they can aid her.

Placing Paralysis and Chakra Supressing seals on the kunoichi his smile only widens as more appear atop the wall. "Give me back Naruto Uzumaki and I won't have to tear your village apart." Not giving the kunoichi time to respond Kaito blitzes forward soon followed by Jiraiya and the others. Taken by surprise the Nadeshiko kunoichi raise the alarm before they're quickly driven off the wall and forced to fight within their village.

Watching from the forest edge Hinata nods to her team and Team 10 as they begin to circle around the fortified village. "Most of the Nadeshiko kunoichi are heading for or already at the wall. Only three seem to be near Naruto.." Scaling the wall the two teams quietly slip between the buildings before stopping as they reach the structure Naruto is being held in. "This isn't the prison…" Nodding Anko pulls out a set of lockpicks before unlocking a side door and leading the teams in. "Choji, Fū, and Hinata you're with Asuma at the front, me and Lazy here will take the middle, and Ino you're with Shino covering our escape."

Slowly the two teams move through the structure keeping to the shadows and watching for traps. As they near the room Naruto is in they freeze and listen. To their shock they hear Naruto seeming to beg someone to stop. Enraged Hinata rushes forward before Anko or Asuma can stop her before shattering the twin doors lock and slamming them open with a single Jūken strike. "NARUTO WE'RE TO RESC…What is going on here?…"

Before Hinata's eyes instead of some vile torture she see's a shocked Naruto sitting up with one arm across his stomach while across the table two kunoichi, one Naruto's age and one older, are reaching for weapons that aren't there. "Oh…Hey Hinata-chan…What's going on?.." For a moment the group is silent before everyone starts yelling back and forth while Naruto looks between his friends and the two kunoichi in the room. Tired of the needless noise Anko whistles loudly shutting everyone up before walking forward and grabbing Naruto.

"Naruto, why are you joking with the people who kidnapped you? And why didn't you return if you're not a prisoner." Eyes wide Naruto holds up his hands but before he can speak the older Nadeshiko kunoichi coughs into her hand and stands up. "That would be our fault. We did..kidnap Naruto to try and force him to marry Shizuoka-san here.", as the women says this she motions to the teen to her left, "But when he defeated us and a man who sought to force Shizuka-san to marry him we let him go. We sent a hawk…But you arrived before it reached Konoha I assume.."

Looking back to Naruto who nods Anko sighs before dropping him and pinching her nose. "Someone go tell the other teams….I don't think Jiraiya-sama will follow his own orders if the fight drags on long enough." Nodding Team 10 head out alongside the older Nadeshiko kunoichi. "So Naruto are these your friends?" Nodding Naruto sits up but doesn't stand up when Anko and Shino glare at him slightly. "Yep this is Team Anko. This scary lady is Anko Mitarashi", noticing Anko's stare Naruto's voice goes up a few notches, "and she's the best Jonin ever! The green haired girl is Fū she's great too", waving Fū holds back a laugh at Naruto's expression, "The guy with the is Shino Aburame. He's one of the coolest guys from our class. And the bluenette.."

As Naruto goes to point at Hinata he realizes she's sitting across from Shizuka and glaring at her not so subtly. "Is Hinata-chan…Hey Hinata why are you glaring at Shizuka like that?" For a moment Hinata turns her glare on Naruto who gulps at the unexpected look of anger on her face. "I wanted to see what's so special about her Naruto…She must be someone special if her village wanted her to marry you." Raising one eyebrow Shizuka seems annoyed at Hinata's words before she smirks.

"I am the leader of Nadeshiko. Tokiwa-sama, the woman who left with your friends, and myself are the students of our previous Matriarch. I was named her successor and by our laws I must be married. So we sought to fulfill the oath made by Jiraiya-sama to my sensei." Narrowing her eyes Hinata doesn't notice the amused looks on her teammates while Naruto puts his arms out between the two girls. "Alright take a deep breath both of you..Please." Sighing Hinata nods before rising and moving to sit beside Naruto, who blushes in surprise, while Shizuka holds back a laugh as she feigns acquiescence.

For a few moments the group sits quietly before they hear someone running towards them. Looking up Naruto goes pale as he see's Karin and Jiraiya both running full speed his way with looks that promise pain. "Oh no…" For the next few minutes the two take turns yelling at Naruto and occasionally hitting him over the head before Karin grabs him and pulls him in tight. "Don't ever do this again otōto."

Nodding slowly even as he rubs the top of his head Naruto smiles when the others are escorted into the room. "Alright what's going on? Why is one of Naruto's kidnappers escorting us to him?" Smacking Kiba across the back of the head Kurenai resists the urge to groan under her breath before looking between Shizuka and Tokiwa. "While I disagree with our Genin's words I have to ask the same thing. Tell me did you somehow get Naruto to marry your kunoichi?"

Shaking her head Tokiwa smirks as her younger leader pouts slightly. "No he beat me and then helped free me from a trap laid by a as…annoying man who wanted to marry me." Laughing Naruto nods before his laugh falters as he looks at the others faces. "Oh come on it was a hilarious fight. His technique was interesting but rudimentary at best."

Reaching into his jacket, that Karin notices has a few recently repaired tears in it, Naruto pulls out a tag before unsealing a small piece of metal vaguely resembling a bolt. "Apparently he based it on Suna's Puppet Jutsu but it was meant for living people. He was a jerk.." Nodding Shizuka shivers slightly revealing a few marks on her pale skin that match the bolt like object. "That is a understatement…But let's move on to happier subjects please. And can I assume you will be staying for the night?"

Looking over at Jiraiya the younger shinobi smile as he shrugs his shoulders and nods. "Yeah just don't try to make any of our genin stay here, alright?" Laughing Shizuka nods before calling for a few aides to escort them to a few spare rooms. Watching Hinata go the Nadeshiko kunoichi waves and grins at her still stony expression. "She's got it bad for him..Not that I can blame her though.."

Stretching Shizuka heads for bed with a smirk on her face as she hears the Konoha teams heading to bed. As the sun rises the next day Shizuka smiles as they join her and a few of her fellows for breakfast. "So Jiraiya-san what's your plan now? Will you all be returning to Konoha or will you and your apprentice continue your training?" Putting down his tea Jiraiya seems to contemplative for a second before looking over at Naruto who's talking animatedly with his team. "We will continue our training. But I have a question.", motioning for him to continue Shizuka isn't surprised to see most of them looking between the two, "How did you tear his undershirt? It's reinforced by seals."

Laughing at Naruto's annoyed muttering Shizuka holds up her hand before channeling chakra into it. To the other's shock wind natured chakra quickly begins to swirl around it much like Naruto's *Drilling Hands jutsu. "I used one of our own jutsu to do it. Though I have to say your jutsu is far stronger Naruto-san even if I haven't mastered it yet. Seeing as you managed to deflect many of my kunai despite them being coated with chakra." Grumbling a bit more Naruto sighs before shrugging his shoulders and a sly smile spreads across his face.

"Like I said before the fight I don't plan to marry you. So I had to win…Though it was a fun fight. Pervy Sage here doesn't know many Fūton jutsu so fighting someone with them was interesting." Taking the compliment with grace Shizuka bows before looking up at the others around the table. "What about the rest of you? We surely have some time before you have to leave? Would anyone else like to spar with me?", looking across the room Shizuka focuses on Hinata, "What about you Hinata-san? I have heard quite a bit about you from Naruto. Would you like to have a friendly spar with me?"

For a split second Hinata's eyes harden before a almost too sweet smile appears on her face. "Oh course Shizuka-san, I would love to spar with you after we finish breakfast. But before I agree let me ask my Jonin leader if that is allowed.", before Hinata can even ask Anko is nodding repeatedly with a similar smile, "Since she is approving then I accept your invitation to spar." Suddenly spurred on the rest of the Leaf teams quickly finish their own meals while Tokiwa and their Jonin watch in amusement. "You know Hinata is the Heir of the Hyūga right? She won't go easy on your girl."

Nodding Tokiwa slightly lifts her shoulders before standing. "Oh you might be surprised Shizuka is one of our better kunoichi. She's managed to master moves that even some of her elders still struggle with. Though I doubt she can beat the Jyūken." Following Shizuka the teams are led to a walled off area of the compound where a packed sand spar spit rests in between a dojo and small garden. "So Hinata-san how would you like to do this? Simple taijutsu or should we include jutsu of C-rank and below?"

Stretching slightly Hinata looks around for a moment before answering. "Taijutsu only. I would not want to be responsible for damaging your garden." Nodding Shizuka smiles before going to the opposite side of the pit from Hinata. "Tokiwa-sama would you mind starting and calling the match? Let's say first to disable or strike what could be a lethal blow wins. Is that fine by you Hinata-san?" Nodding Hinata finishes stretching before falling into her clan's customary starting form.

Nodding to each other the girls fall silent as the Tokiwa raises her right arm. "First to disable or strike what would be a lethal blow wins. No jutsu allowed. BEGIN!" As soon as Tokiwa's arm drops Shizuka is moving forward with chakra coating both her hands. To Shizuka's shock Hinata simply slips around her attacks with almost unnatural grace before going back to her initial stance in the center. "Oh now that's unusual..A Hyūga who isn't rigid like the earth."

Smiling a bit too sweetly Hinata nods before taunting Shizuka to come at her again. "Of course. What else do you expect of a teammate of Konoha's Number Knucklehead." Laughing at Hinata's little joke Shizuka blitzes forward and this time Hinata is forced to block as Shizuka feints with her right before going for a kick with her left as Hinata attempts to dodge.

Knocked back by the blow Hinata uses the force of the strike to back flip and nearly manages to kick Shizuka in the chest in return. "Again deviating from your clan's strict style interesting…Wait don't tell me you've learned from our mutual interest?" Fighting down a blush and scowl Hinata simply nods before falling into her own stance. While her legs remain bent like before her right arm is brought higher while her left is palm inward at her stomach.

"We created a new style of Jūken. Instead of the Gentle Fist this is the *Jyūsho or Gentle Step. Would you like to test yourself against it?" Nodding with perhaps a bit too much excitement Shizuka blitzes forward with chakra covering her forearms while pumping chakra into her legs to strengthen them. Much to Hinata's surprise instead of striking with her fists Shizuka launches herself in the air before more chakra covers her right leg. "Hardliner Revolving Cut!"

Coating her hands in chakra Hinata deflects the blow away to her left while jumping right. As Shizuka's foot slams into the packed sand it sends a shockwave through it while a small cloud forms around her. Giving the sand a moment to fall Hinata charges forward with her Byakugan blazing. "Jyūsho: Sixteen Palms!" Frantically jumping back Shizuka nevertheless can't stop Hinata from striking her left leg twice and her right once.

Landing roughly due to her leg's tenketsu being closed Shizuka raises her hands before Tokiwa can even call the match. "Man shishou wasn't kidding you Hyūga hit hard. I give up I can't fight you like this." Nodding Hinata smiles before walking forward and reaching out her left hand that begins to glow green. "I can heal it if you'd like. That way you aren't partially disabled for the day." Nodding Shizuka sighs in relief as Hinata unblocks her tenketsu and begins healing her.

"You know I really need to learn more medical jutsu. Or have some of my sisters learn it. Think the famed Tsunade will train some of them?" For a moment Hinata is surprised before she begins to laugh before helping Shizuka rise. "I think she'd be delighted to train more med-nin." Hugging Hinata Shizuka smiles and laughs a bit at her stiffening in shock before relaxing and hugging back.

As she lets Hinata go Shizuka smirks one more time as she looks over the bluenette's shoulder at Naruto before speaking in a quiet voice. "Don't forget to invite me to the wedding Hinata. Seeing you become Hinata Uzumaki will surely be a memorable sight." Eyes widening and cheeks blushing Hinata can't even get a coherent word out in response before Shizuka winks once before walking past her. "Well Naruto, you certainly weren't over exaggerating about your friend. But that doesn't mean you can forget to take care of her."

Blinking in surprise Naruto looks between the two kunoichi before looking over at his friends and shrugging. "Of course I won't forget. Hinata-chan is important to me…" Almost as soon as Naruto says this his eyes widen before he looks away much to the amusement of those watching. "Alright alright. Unless anyone else would like to spar with our esteemed host I think it's time we headed back home. Jiraiya-sama is there anything you'd like us to take back for you?"

For a moment Jiraiya closes his eyes before opening them and nodding. "There is some news I think he should hear. Give me a few minutes to get my reports and I'll meet you at the main gate." Nodding the teams head back to their rooms to retrieve their gear and clothes before Tokiwa and Shizuka lead them to the village's gate. Sitting with his friends Naruto sullenly toys with handle of his tanto before sighing as Jiraiya arrives.

Looking up he smiles sadly at his friends before his eyes widen as Hinata wraps him up in a close hug before she's joined by Karin and the others. "We'll see you in a month Naruto-kun." Hugging back Naruto smiles before letting go as Anko calls for everyone to move out. Waving goodbye to his friends Naruto keeps waving till he can't see them anymore before his hand drops as Jiraiya lays a hand on his shoulder. "You'll see them soon enough Naruto. Now let's go grab our things. There is somewhere I want to show you before we head home."

-2 days later-

Walking through the woods Naruto suddenly perks up as the smell of the sea is carried through the forrest. Freezing he looks over at Jiraiya who nods before motioning for him to follow him. "Are we where I think we are?" Nodding Jiraiya begins walking up a sheer cliff face that stands tall amongst the thinning forrest. Reaching the top he points out to sea where the famed whirlpools of Uzushio can be seen and heard even from miles away.

Dropping his bag Naruto walks to the edge of the cliff before sitting down and just staring towards his clan's lost home. "What was it like? The elders told stories but you visited it didn't you? Before the Fall…" Smiling sadly Jiraiya sits down beside Naruto and points at a ruined wharf that can barely be seen along the shore. "I visited Uzushio twice…It is difficult to describe beyond being incredibly beautiful and peaceful. Your clan, the Kazama, and the others of Uzushiogakure treated each other and all who visited like family."

Leaning back Jiraiya reminisces before not so gently punching Naruto in the shoulder. "But your clan…They wer…Are something else. Even amongst Uzushio's famously kind people they stood out. Your grandfather Ashina Uzumaki was alot like you excluding his vibrant red hair of course." Laughing Jiraiya smiles sadly as Naruto tries to quietly cry for all those he'd never get to know. "It's alright…Let it all out Naruto…I'm sure they're watching and cheering you on from the Pure Lands."

Pulling Naruto in close Jiraiya gives him all the time he needs for his sobs to slow and finally stop. Wiping his eyes Naruto has a sad smile on his face as he looks up at Jiraiya. "Thanks Ojisan…And sorry about your shirt.." Flicking Naruto right between his eyes Jiraiya laughs at his surprised expression before responding. "Don't worry about it brat. Even the strongest shinobi cry sometimes. I know your mother and father did a few times.." Nodding Naruto looks back out to sea as the sun slowly dips under the horizon.

As the light fades Naruto's breath catches in his throat as the village's whirlpools glow a faint red as the seals from below light up the sea. "It's beautiful…" Reaching out as if to grab the whirlpools Naruto falls into a trancelike state as he follows their movements with his right index finger. "Did they always glow like this at night? Or is it because of…" Shaking his head Jiraiya lays down before responding. "No they always did. I like to think it's how your clan came up with their symbol after splitting off from the Senju."

Rising Jiraiya motions for Naruto to stay seated before walking away from the cliff. "Don't stay up too late Naruto. We've gotta one more place to be before heading home." Nodding Naruto sits and watches the whirlpools for what seems to be an eternity before he realizes he's not alone. One moment he's sitting on the cliff by himself and the next a hooded stranger is sitting beside him.

To his own surprise he doesn't react to the man's appearance as he feels familiar somehow despite his hood covering much of his face. "It's beautiful isn't it?" Nodding Naruto leans back slightly before looking over at the man. "It is. I wish I could've seen it before the Fall." Nodding the man's blonde hair shades his eyes as he looks at Naruto with a brilliant smile. "Well why not rebuild it little Uzumaki?"

Looking between the man and the distant islands Naruto's eyes widen before he smiles. "That's not a bad idea. But how'd you know I'm a Uzumaki?" Pointing behind Naruto the man chuckles when Naruto realizes his chains are out and waving lazily. "Your chains is how. What's your name kid?"

Pulling his chains back in with an embarrassed grin Naruto sticks out his hand to the man to shake. "My name is Naruto. What's your?" Grabbing Naruto's hand and shaking it firmly the blonde man smiles before releasing it and laying down much like Jiraiya did earlier. "The name's *Taisune Uzumaki." Instantly Naruto looks over at the man with wide eyes before looking back towards Uzushio.

"Wait you're a Uzumaki!? How come I've never seen you in Konoha before?" Looking over at Naruto Taisune seems confused at Naruto's words before looking up again and shrugging slightly. "There is a man I have to kill before I can settle down. He killed my wife…" Instantly Naruto's expression drops as he looks down and away from the man. "Oh I'm sorry…If you don't mind me asking what was she like?"

Punching Naruto in the shoulder Taisune smiles up at him before patting the grass beside him. "Lay back and I'll tell you about her." For the next hour Taisune and Naruto trade stories about their lives before Taisune rises suddenly. "It was nice talking to you Naruto. Keep at it and I'm sure you'll be the best Uzumaki Clan Head and Hokage ever. You've got the guts and grit for it. Oh and take this I'm sure your friends will like them" Tossing Naruto a small stack of scrolls the man seemingly pulls from nowhere Naruto is shocked to see they cover medical seals, various taijutsu forms, and other shinobi arts.

Looking up in surprise Naruto is once more confused at how familiar the man looks and acts. "Thanks Taisune-san." Waving goodbye Taisune heads off away from the sea as Naruto finally heads towards the campsite Jiraiya had set up without him. Looking back one last time Naruto smiles at Uzushio's whirlpools before whistling as he heads to bed.

Many miles away from Naruto Taisune smiles as he senses Naruto finally going to sleep much happier than he was before. "You know he almost figured it out right?" Nodding Taisune smiles at his longtime companion as he removes his hood revealing a face that would make many in Konoha look twice in shock. "Of course he was. This Naruto is like many others not the brightest when it comes to books but he's still smart in other ways." Looking back at distant Uzushio once more Taisune smiles as the two disappear in a shining portal.

-Shinima no Kuni-

Within a decrepit bar a hooded figure stares down his contact who gulps nervously. "I understand your anger Kabuto-san….But I can not find what you're asking for. None of my contacts have been able to find the intel you want." Slamming a palm down atop the table Kabuto reveals his arm now pale much like his former master. "Look harder. Your contacts cover much of the world. I know what I'm asking for exists. I just need you to find it. Do it or you can join your competitors in the dirt."

As Kabuto says this a pale bone knife slides out of his left hand. "Am I understood?" Nodding frantically the information broker almost falls backwards as he rises and nearly runs out the building with nary a glance sent his way. Smirking Kabuto motions to the bar's host to send in the next man a shinobi wearing the headband of Ame. "Tell your god I would like to meet with him. I believe I have talents he could find useful." Keeping his thoughts to himself the Ame nin simply nods before rising and walking out without saying a word.

-Kiri-

Outside of Kiri a battle rages as shinobi loyal to the Mizukage and shinobi of the rebel forces battle for control of their nation. Wielding his former master's blade Haku cuts down yet another Kiri nin with a sad expression on his face. "Just give up already! You have lost this war! Stop fighting for that tyrant and lay down your arms!" Shouting incoherently a Kiri Anbu charges at Haku with twin kamas out. "Die DEMON!"

Almost before the man can even blink Haku cuts through his blades and chest with Kubikiribōchō leaving yet another body at his feet. "I am no demon. And neither are those like me! The Mizukage is one! He has ordered the deaths of innocent women and children for simply existing. He will answer for his crimes today." With a single seal Haku forms dozens of mirrors across the battlefield as he places his blade across his back. "For Kiri."

Stepping into the mirror behind him Haku seems to be everywhere at once as he disables Kiri nin with senbon or locks them down with ice shackles causing his allies to cheer as they surge forward. But even as the rebels push further into their home a greater battle rages near it's center as the Mizukage and Mei fight. "Damn you Yagura! How could you betray our people!? You brought hope only to cut it down! I can never forgive you for that!"

With a disturbingly blank face Yagura duels with his former subordinate and friend trying to take her life. But for some reason refuses to use his biju's power even as it becomes apparent he's outmatched. For what seems like hours the two fight across the devastated land leaving coral, puddles of acid, and ruined craters everywhere. Watching from the sidelines Mei's personal elite stare in awe at the power the two wield.

-Yugakure-

Sitting within a natural hot spring Naruto sighs in relief as he and Jiraiya finally relax after nearly two weeks of constant training and movement. Sinking into the water till only his nose and eyes are above it Naruto smiles at the thought of returning home. Watching with a relaxed smile on his face Jiraiya sips his chilled sake slowly before motioning to Naruto. "So brat it's almost time to go home. Think your friends and clan will be surprised at all the new stuff you've learned?"

Rolling his eyes Naruto smiles nevertheless before laying his head back against the edge of the hot spring. "Yeah they'll be surprised I lasted so long with you Pervy Sage!" Laughing at Jiraiya's annoyed but amused expression Naruto stretches before standing and getting out of the water. "I'm gonna go check out the village. It's not every day we go into another shinobi village."

Nodding Jiraiya waves Naruto off while telling him to be careful before his eyes get a familiar twinkle as the sounds from across the divider once more reach his ears. Almost instantly he's by the fence and giggling perversely without even the slightest bit of shame even as the other men present seem to not notice. "Finally!"

Outside the resort Naruto stretches a bit before picking a random direction to walk. Looking into the various stores as he passes Naruto smiles and waves at the occasional civilian and Yu-nin that pass him by. Stopping at a intersection Naruto looks around and notices a small shinobi store across the street. Deciding to enter on a whim he's surprised to see the store is relatively well stocked for such a small village.

Waving to the clerk Naruto walks through the aisles picking up a few small boxes of kunai and shuriken to restock his seals with before he stops before sets of shinobi armor. Pulling his sleeve up to reveal his underarmor mesh shirt he whistles in appreciation at it's quality before looking around. "Hey where'd you guys get this mesh armor it's really nice." Smiling at the compliment the clerk walks over before motioning to motioning to the sign above the armor.

"One of our retired kunoichi makes it with her two apprentices. If I remember right she learned how to make it years ago from another village. Why would you like to buy some?" Looking over at Naruto's exposed mesh armor the clerk's eyes widen as he walks closer almost pushing Naruto into the shelves. "Wait where did you get this? The only armor I've seen like it is the set the kunoichi wears." Putting his hands up to push the man away slightly Naruto looks down at his armor with a shrug.

"My clan makes it's own armor. Do you know what village she learned her skills from?" Nodding the man almost runs back to his counter before grabbing something from behind it. "Here this should answer it." To Naruto's shock the man reveals a worn Uzushio headband on a black cloth. "So she learned from my clan or another from Uzushio. That's awesome!"

For a moment the man is confused before he notices the symbol on Naruto's right shoulder strap. "You're….you're a Uzumaki!?" Nodding Naruto smiles before turning and revealing his family crest upon his back. "Yep. So tell me does this kunoichi do custom orders?" Nodding slowly the man almost falls as he backs up before calling for someone from the back of the store.

"What is it boss? And who's the blonde?" Waving off his worker's questions the man tosses him the Uzushio headband. "Sato go get Miki-san. She'll understand if you show her the headband." Shrugging the young man walks out as Naruto looks on in confusion. "Why's he going to get the kunoichi?" Motioning for Naruto to join him at the countertop he points at Naruto's right shoulder. "Miki has always felt bad that our village never helped yours. Ever since word that your clan survived the attack she's asked me to call for her if one showed up here."

Nodding Naruto simply waits and looks around the store before looking up as the door slams open and a elderly woman almost sprints across the room at him. "You! Are you really a Uzumaki!? What branch are you from? Why do you have blonde hair? What's your name? Why are you here?" Holding his hands up Naruto chuckles nervously at the woman's attention before she backs up slightly. "Yes I'm a Uzumaki, I got it from my dad, name's Naruto Uzumaki, visiting and I wanted some more supplies, and I'm from the Head Family."

For a moment the woman is silent before she wraps Naruto up in a sudden hug much to his shock and confusion. "What the hell lady!? Lemme go!" Almost as soon as Naruto says this she lets go and steps back before bowing. "My apologies Uzumaki-san it's just…I thought I'd never see another of your Clan again…I was despondent when our elders refused to join Konoha in attempting to break the siege of your home." Nodding Naruto struggles to find a response before focusing on the mesh undershirt the woman is wearing that is visible on her forearms.

"I…I'm sure those who knew you wouldn't hold it against you or Yuka..But I have to ask why did you travel to Uzushio to learn how we make our armor? It can't be that good can it?" Looking at the polished and well maintained mesh armor the former kunoichi chuckles before poking Naruto in the chest and pointing at his tanto handle. "It is true there are villages that make better armor and blades. But your Clan made them easier to enhance with seals."

Pulling her sleeve up the woman reveals a small seal with the kanji for Strength in it's center. "This seal when it had chakra made this old armor the match for all but the best made armor. And it did so without adding weight from segmented plates or heavier rings. And I bet your's has even better seals on it, right?" Thinking about the five seals that went down over his spine Naruto nods absentmindedly. "So tell me young Uzumaki why did you call me here?"

Pointing to the armor along the walls Naruto smiles. "I would like to make some pieces for three of my friends. I'm returning home soon and would like to have some gifts for them. Think you could help me with it?" For a moment the woman looks between Naruto and the armor she's made before she nods very rapidly and repeatedly. "I'd be honored. What exactly do you have in mind?" Leading Naruto into the back of the store the woman quickly hashes out the details with Naruto before accepting a down payment of him refilling her armor's seal.

Over the next week Jiraiya spends some time polishing up on the various skills he had taught Naruto. Counting down the days Naruto grows ever more excited to return home especially as the last of the gifts for his friends is finished. Finally as the sun dawns on their last day in Yugakure as Naruto and Jiraiya seal up their belongings and begin the short trek home. Waving goodbye to Sato, Miki, and Issei the duo quickly reach the border and are easily waved through by the samurai guards.

Leaping into the trees the two relax slightly as they leap from branch to branch. Breathing in deeply Naruto relaxes even more as they reach the first village they'll stay in and sees two Konoha shinobi across the village's small market no doubt on their own mission. Heading for bed Naruto dreams of his friends, family, and of Konoha but most of all he dreams of his parents.

-Ame-

Within the talkest tower of Ame Kabuto Yakushi moves slowly as a small but obviously trusted guard of Ame nin escort him towards a pair of large black doors. Stopping before the doors the lead Ame nin approaches the doors before knocking three times and stepping back. "Pain-sama, Lady Angel we have brought Kabuto as ordered." Stepping back more the man turns away from the doors as they open ever so slowly. "They are inside. Me and my men will be here when you return."

Entering the room Kabuto raises a eyebrow at the unusual decor with a large face with piercings through it's nose, ears, and eyebrows staring down at him. "So why do you seek to join the Akatsuki? Your former master betrayed us and fled." Raising one eyebrow Kabuto pushes his glasses up revealing his right arm and bottom half of his face to be the same color as Orochimaru's was. "Simple I find your group…interesting. But if you don't want me you can have this back."

Tossing a ring across the room Kabuto smirks as Pain and Konan stare down at it. "I am sure you'll be able to find me if you change your mind." Turning around Kabuto nearly laughs at the faces of the Ame nin as he walks out so soon after entering. "So he does have the Rinnegan…I must know more about this Pain and his plan." Escorted out of the village Kabuto begins to laugh only when a small black snake winds it's way up his leg and onto his right hand.

Walking northwards Kabuto looks back with a satisfied smirk as the snake regurgitates a small scroll into his hand before disappearing. "Hanzo, Kimimaro, and the Sound Four who else should I take from?" Unbeknownst to Kabuto in the trees above him a lone shinobi watches the former spy with a look of pure disgust.

-day before return-

Setting up camp for the last time Naruto looks over at Jiraiya before chuckling as he grumbles while looking down at his notepad. "Oi Pervy Sage what's the matter?" Looking up at Naruto's smug and amused face Jiraiya barely restrains himself from throwing his godson into another canyon. "Fine I'll tell you brat. The test group loved your version of my glorious book more than mine. Apparently it's more "romantic" and "realistic" BAH!"

For a moment Naruto is confused before he thinks back to the bet they made and begins to laugh so hard he falls back before his numerous clones join him. "So you've gotta share the profits from it now!? HAHAHAHAHA! Oh this is rich!" Rolling around as he laughs Naruto only stops with a shout when Jiraiya tosses a scroll at him hitting him just above his headband. "OW! What was that for Pervy Sage!?" Rolling his eyes Jiraiya sighs before pointing at the scroll. "Just read it and sign. From now on you'll get 20% of Icha Icha Tactics profits. You happy?"

For a moment Naruto considers rejecting the deal before he thinks back to the one time he'd seen Jiraiya's accounts. "Awesome! I'm gonna be able to buy so much ramen and sealing supplies now!" Smiling even as he rolls his eyes Jiraiya smiles as Naruto signs his name on the contract. "Just remember brat if you ever wanna make a penny from the future sequels you'll have to help write them too."

Sticking his tongue out Naruto feigns being sick at the thought before he and Jiraiya both begin to laugh before sitting down across from each other by the small fire. "So we'll be home tomorrow. You excited Naruto?" Nodding Naruto lifts his right hand before forming a Rasengan in it before he begins changing it's size randomly for fun. "Yeah it's been alot of fun training with you Pervy Sage but I miss my friends. And I know you miss Tsunade-baachan."

Before Jiraiya can play it off with some perverted comment Naruto tosses a pillow at him with a smirk. "Don't even try it Ojiisan I know that look you get when she sends a letter or I talk about her." For a second Jiraiya is surprised at Naruto's perception before he looks up sharply. "Just wait a minute who do you think you are calling Me the Legendary Jiraiya Ojiisan!? I'll have you know I'm not that old you brat." This time Naruto rolls his eyes before the two of them once more laugh though Jiraiya seems happier.

"So you pervert what are you gonna do when you see her? I'm sure Obaachan missed you too." Trying hard not to keep a hopeful and surprised expression off his face Jiraiya shrugs feigning ambivalence before he looks at Naruto with a twinkle in his eyes. "I don't know or care…But what are You gonna do when you see Hinata again? I trained your dad and knew your mom. You've got the same look for that shy Hyūga as she had for him." Chuckling as Naruto tries and fails to hide his blush Jiraiya in the back of his mind wonders if the knucklehead is right about Tsunade missing him. "Well I guess I'll see in the morning…"

*-can't remember if I've used this jutsu or not but essentially it covers the user's hand/forearm with wind chakra that both protects, long as you're not hit by fire lol, & can be used to pierce through defenses
*-since I couldn't come up with a more unique name I'm using the fanon usual lol
*-it's the same Taisune from Crossoverpairinglover's story Mysterious Power I've always liked that story so I wanted to use his character, with credit and permission, for a bit

Finally done with the timeskip. I both can't wait and am dreading the arcs/fights planned for Shippuden. As always thanks for taking time out of your day to read my story guys and girls! Peace