Chapter 28 Home Again

As always I don't own Naruto just my own content & such. Now onto the show!

-Hokage's Office-

Sitting behind his desk Itachi has to resist the urge to strangle the genin before him while his left eye barely twitches. "So you caught Tora but only after chasing her all across the village. And you want higher ranked missions?" Nodding Konohamaru sits down in a huff much to the embarrassment of his team and hidden amusement of his grandfather beside Itachi. "Yes, afterall how can I grow stronger and become the Nanadaime Hokage if all we do is chase that stupid cat?"

Raising one eyebrow Itachi appears amused as he looks down at the young Sarutobi. "Nanadaime? Not the Rokudaime?" Shaking his head Konohamaru smiles before looking up at Itachi and Hiruzen. "No that's Naruto-niisan's spot. I'll be Hokage after he retires." Chuckling Hiruzen can't help but see a familiar face over Konohamaru for a split second.

"Forgive him Godaime-sama, I will be sure to correct his behavior later." Nodding Itachi dismisses the team before cracking a small smile as he turns around and looks out upon the village. "Hard to believe it's been three years..They should be back any day now.." Shaking his head Itachi dismisses Hiruzen and his guards as Izumi enters the room carrying two bento boxes that smell absolutely heavenly to him. "Anata if that's what I think it is Sage bless you."

Laughing Izumi rolls her eyes before tapping the seat next to her. "Come on koibito." Removing his hat Itachi smiles before rising and moving to sit beside his wife while outside Team Ebisu run into Sakura and Shizune. "Hey Sakura! Got any news about Naruto-niisan?" Shaking her head Sakura isn't surprised at the question or the expectant look on the three genin's faces. "Sorry not today. But he should be back soon. Would you guys like to go with me to get today's logs from the Main Gate?"

Looking back to their sensei the three cheer as he nods before dismissing them and telling them to meet at the same time tomorrow. "So Sakura, Naruto's-nii should be back soon. Do you think he's gotten alot stronger since he left?" Thinking back to the few times she'd seen him during his extended absence Sakura nods. "He's probably still an idiot but he's gotten stronger for sure…Though his use of his chains to swing around is so weird.." Walking through the village the four wave and say hi to the various civilians and fellow shinobi who they see along the way.

-Main Gate-

Sitting in their usual spots Izumo and Kotetsu sigh in boredom before sitting up quickly as two figures wave and walk past into the village. "Was that?" Nodding Kotetsu smiles before writing their names down quickly before sighing once more as they disappear into the village. "Well at least the village won't be so quiet anymore right?" Chuckling Izumo nods before waving as Sakura walks up them with the three genin. "Hey Sakura, you just missed him. He walked into the village not even ten minutes ago."

Confused for a second Sakura's eyes widen as she looks down at the log and two names are on it. "Finally!" Sealing up the papers she takes off into the village with Konohamaru, Udon, and Moegi right behind her. Taking the corner so fast she nearly runs into a civilian Sakura rushes through her apology as she sees a familiar blonde atop a light pole. "Naruto! Is that really you?"

Looking down from the top of the pole Naruto smiles before jumping down only slowing at the last second with a burst of wind chakra from his feet. Laughing at the others expression Naruto gives Sakura a quick hug. "Hey Sakura! How's it been since that mission?" Rolling her eyes Sakura wipes the dust off her clothes before realizing she has to look up at Naruto now. "Hey you're actually taller than me now. You used to be a shrimp what happened!"

Grumbling a bit Naruto smiles when Konohamaru punches him in the shoulder lightly. "Hey Boss check this out! Sexy Jutsu!" Before Naruto can say a word Konohamaru is wreathed in smoke before revealing he's transformed into a rather curvaceous woman with smoke barely covering her just enough to be on the edge of indecency. Before Sakura can throttle the genin Naruto sighs, but not before flashing Konohamaru a thumbs up, and motions for him to end the jutsu.

"Konohamaru I'm not a kid anymore I don't use that jutsu anymore", in the back of his head he prays Jiraiya doesn't mention the other ones, "But I'll teach you some of my new ones if you want otōto." Nodding Konohamaru, Udon, and Moegi smile before Naruto looks up and waves. "Yo neesan, how's..Oh Crap!" Jumping back Naruto barely avoids Karin's chains as she lands beside him with a annoyed expression. "Naruto you are supposed to be heading to the Hokage not taking your sweet time talking."

Stepping between the Uzumaki Sakura holds up her hands to stop them both. "Sorry Karin that was my fault. I wanted to talk to this knucklehead. But she's right Naruto you have to go." Shrugging Naruto waves to Konohamaru and the others before he and Jiraiya resume heading for the Hokage's office. Waving to a few civilians and shinobi they pass along the way Naruto smiles as the Hokage Rock becomes more visible. "One day my face will be up there with Jiji's, Tousan, and Itachi.."

Entering the building the two are quickly allowed to pass through by the various staff members before Jiraiya knocks on the door to Itachi's office. "Enter." Opening the door Jiriaya and Naruto both wave to Hiruzen who's sitting to the left of Itachi and Izumi to his right. "Ah Jiraiya-san and Naruto. I'm glad to see you're both back. Tell me Jiraiya did you teach him all that you planned to during your training?" Nodding Jiraiya ruffles Naruto's hair a bit before flicking his eyes towards the right of Itachi.

"Oh I have. I bet he could even give your brother there a truly memorable fight." Smiling slightly Itachi isn't surprised to see Sasuke ending his jutsu with a smirk matched only by Naruto. "Yo Sasuke, I see you've gone the Anbu route. Gonna start reading Icha Icha in public like Kakashi too?" Nodding Sasuke's eyes briefly flash red as he looks Naruto over. "I see you've finally gotten taller. Guess you're no longer our class's shortest member."

Holding up a hand to stop the impending argument Itachi has to restrain a laugh at how easily the two can get under each other's skin. "Much as I would enjoy such a fight for now you two can't. But I do have someone for you to fight Naruto." As Itachi says this the door to his office opens as Shikamaru and Temari enter the room. "Hey Shikamaru and Temari!", as the two turn towards Naruto they smile and wave, "Wait are you two my opponents?"

Shaking his head Shikamaru almost seems to deflate before he points at Temari with his right thumb. "No I'm helping organize the next Chunin Exams and helping Suna's representative here too." Rolling her eyes Temari offers Naruto a hand before smiling at the ever tired looking Nara. "While I'd like to spar with you Naruto I've gotta work with lazy ass here." Nodding Naruto suddenly ducks as a rolled up piece of paper flies just over his head. "ANKO-SENSEI!"

Turning Naruto is quickly face to face with the laughing kunoichi who's sitting on the window sill spinning a kunai on her ring finger. "Hey Blondie, glad to see you're back. Did Pervy Sage try to corrupt you?" Laughing Naruto nods alongside the others while Jiraiya mutters about annoying brats. "So are You my opponent, Anko-sensei?" Nodding Anko motions for Naruto to turn around revealing Team 7 and Team 8 entering the room. "Not just me but the Scarecrow too. It's gonna be you and the rest of my glorious team versus me and him."

Looking between the two Jonin a very familiar glint appears in Naruto's eyes one that makes Kakashi nervous as it reminds him of Kushina. "So when do we spar? I wanna show you guys my new jutsu and seals." Looking back at Itachi the two Jonin smile as he nods before they turn back to Naruto. "Meet us at Training Ground 7 in twenty minutes. That's all the time you have to prepare." Before Naruto can respond the two disappear in bursts of smoke. "Alright let's go by my house real quick guys. I've gotta drop off my bag."

Dismissing Team 7 and 8 Itachi smiles as he turns and watches the two teams quickly make for the Uzumaki Compound. "Should we watch from here or in person?" Looking over at Hiruzen already rising the young Uchiha chuckles before sending word to a few others in the village. "Might as well call all his friends right? I'm sure he'd like to show off in front of them all." Lighting his pipe Hiruzen takes a deep draw from it before joining Itachi in walking out the office and towards the training ground. "That he will.."

-Uzumaki Compound-

Quickly rushing past his kinsmen even as he says hello Naruto bursts into his home leaving the two teams standing awkwardly in the living room. Before they can decide on whether or not to go after him Naruto returns with three additional small scrolls in his left leg holster and a large one on his hip. "Alright we've got ten minutes should we plan here or there?"

Motioning outside Shino seems to take command causing Naruto to shrug as he and the others follow him out. "I believe it would be wise to arrive early. Why you ask because Anko-sensei and Kakashi-san may use the time left to trap the training ground. And so we can familiarize ourselves with it as no doubt Kakashi-san knows the ground well due to him using it frequently."

Nodding Sasuke and the rest of Team 7 seem to agree. "So why are you guys going? If it's just me, Hinata-chan, Fū, and Shino who are going to be fighting them." As one Team 7 points at Naruto who nearly stumbles at the sight. "Obviously we want to see what you can do moron. Me and Akamaru spent the last three years training like crazy. I wanna see if you did the same." Smirking Naruto channels chakra into his left hand causing multiple seals to light up along his sleeve.

"Oh trust me Dog breath I have." Landing at the edge of the training ground Team 8 quickly head for the center while Team 7, soon joined by others wait on the sidelines. "Oh look Scarecrow our victims showed up a bit early. Are you really that eager to lose Blondie?" Matching Anko's smirk Naruto allows his chains to slowly come out of his back. "We're not the ones losing today Anko-sensei."

Chuckling Kakashi shakes his head before pulling his mask down while keeping his eye closed. "I have a feeling I'll need this. So Anko how is this going to work? Would you like to use my bell test on them?" Shaking her head Anko twirls a kunai on her ring finger before pointing at her team. "Oh no Scarecrow, my test is easier. I want these four to capture for their test. If they can do that they've proved themselves in my book."

Behind Team the other teams arrive with their sensei and sit in the trees while Itachi, Jiraiya, Tsunade, Kaito, Harue, and their baby boy sit on some chairs Kaito brought. "That ok with you four?" Nodding Team 8 prepare themselves as Anko raises her left hand. "You have till sundown to catch us…Begin!" Before anyone can move the two Jonin disappear in bursts of smoke revealing themselves to have been clones the entire time. "Alright like we planned. Hinata and Shino see if you can find them, Fū you're on overwatch, and I'll handle any traps. Multi Shadow Clone Jutsu!"

Before the smoke even as time to clear dozens of Narutos are rushing out from the quartet occasionally tripping, even less often disabling, traps left by Anko as the four advance behind them. "Anko-sensei is in a clearing fifty meters to our south-west. I can't find Kakashi-san Naruto." Nodding Naruto wordlessly creates more clones that form a seemingly haphazard sphere around the four.

Watching from the treeline Jiraiya raises a single eyebrow in surprise. "He's using his clones to form a delaying force for when Kakashi strikes clever….Let's see how effective it is." Speeding up the team enters the woods even as from below they are watched by another. Reaching the clearing the four suppress their chakra as much as they can even as half their clone guards rush into it attempting to flush their sensei out. Just before the clones reach the center where a large green snake sits another dark red and orange one bursts out of the ground.

Easily dispatching the clones the snake adds it's own smoke to the mix as it ends it's summons revealing Anko standing with a obvious smirk. "I know you guys are watching so why don't you come out to pla.." Rolling aside at the last moment Anko smiles as Fū just barely misses her. "Nice try there Sparkles. But I.." Once more dodging at the last second Anko seems surprised when she sees it was Shino who tried to strike. "Oh come on Shades you couldn't let me finish the…"

With a annoyed huff Anko leaps straight up before landing atop her snake as golden chains pierce the ground she was on. "Hahaha getting me annoyed then striking from below. Nice try Blondie." Without a single warning Anko drops down and mule kicks Hinata who appears from nowhere behind her. "Nice try Hinata. But you're still somewhat predictable."

Rising out of the ground before the snake Naruto smirks up at Anko before more chains rise out of the ground suddenly and bind her summon. "Hey Anko-sensei, wanna see a trick I learned with Pervy Sage? *Fūton: Wind Dragon Bullet!" Eyes widening Anko barely dodges the attack even as it dispels her summon and shreds the bottom edge of her jacket. "Oh now you've done it brat! Hidden Shadow Snake Hands!" From Anko's sleeves nearly a dozen large snakes appear and nearly manage to ensnare Naruto before Hinata leaps in front of him.

"Protecting Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms!" To the other's shock Anko's snakes all are quickly dispelled as they strike the sharp blades of chakra between them and the two. "Thanks Hinata. Shino Fū now!" Once more hearing the buzz of insect wings behind and above her Anko twists her body showing inhuman flexibility as a massive beetle barely misses her. But before she can escape Fū slams into her at high speed sending the Jonin into the ground below with Fū barely pulling up in time.

"Oww Sparkles…I think you cracked a rib there…And took you long enough Kakashi." Rubbing her side while on one knee Anko looks over at Kakashi who's standing beside her with his Sharingan visible. "Anko you get out of here. I'll handle these four." Blitzing forward Kakashi doesn't give Team 8 a chance to disable their sensei by keeping the pressure on each of them. Weaving through Naruto's chains Kakashi smirks before dropping down as Shino's swarms attempt to cover him.

Keeping a somewhat smug look on his face Kakashi rolls aside as Fū craters the ground with a single heel strike. "Oh I see Sakura and Hinata weren't Tsunade-sama's only students…But you're much too slow." Disappearing in a burst of smoke Kakashi attempts to strike at Naruto from behind only for a massive swarm of insects to rise upon behind the Uzumaki and nearly catch him.

Disappearing once more Kakashi appears at the edge of the clearing smiling through his mask. "You four are good. But you haven't won yet." Leaping back into the trees Kakashi quickly disappears even as the four regroup. "Shino did you manage to tag them?" Nodding Shino opens his hand releasing two small swarms of insects that fly up and away from everyone. "I've marked them with the pheromones of a female Newman beetles. Those males will find them and given their prevalence in the village they should not seem out of place. But who is our first target? Anko-sensei or Kakashi-san?"

Looking up and rubbing the back of his head Naruto thinks for a moment before snapping his fingers and smirking. "Anko-sensei. She knows us better than Kakashi-san. Plus I have a trick to make sure we beat Kakashi." Visible just over his sunglasses one of Shino's eyebrows lifts momentarily at the claim before he nods wordlessly. Releasing more of his insects Shino takes off to the east with the others right behind him. "She's moving. Naruto-san do you have any jutsu aside from your chains that can slow her down or stop her?"

Nodding Naruto smiles before reaches into his jacket and pulls out a single sealing tag. "If you can distract her and hold her in place I can use this barrier to hold her in. But we'll only have three minutes to take her down." Nodding the three move slightly ahead of Naruto as he slowly begins channeling chakra into the tag. As they draw closer to Anko Hinata's hands become shrouded with lion shaped shrouds of chakra that almost seem to roar as she moves.

As the trees momentarily open up Hinata and Fū dive down at their sensei as she is moving forcing Anko to leap back. Rolling aside as she hears the rustle of clothing Anko laughs as Shino tries to strike her with a black blade made of chitin. "Where's Blondie, I know he's not dumb enough to take on the Scarecrow alone…Ohh he's working on a seal right? So predictable. But let's see if you three can cover for him!"

Drawing her curved kunai Anko feints towards Shino before striking towards Fū. To her shock though Fū blocks the strike with her forearm that's now covered in a extremely hard, blue chitin. Before Anko can react Hinata manages to strike and close three tenketsu in her side causing her left leg to go numb and slowing her down. "Nice one Chomei! The lucky seven!" Pulling her right hand back Fū smiles as it too becomes coated in the same blue chitin as her left forearm. "Let's do this Chomei!"

Ducking back Anko shows more of the flexibility those who summon Snakes are known for as she leans almost inhumanly back. With her back almost parallel to the soil as Fū's shocked face and fist are above her Anko smirks before using both her hands to stabilize herself before spinning to knock Fū off her feet. Seeing the attack but unable to get fully above her sensei's strong legs Fū is sent back and rolls while Hinata easily leaps over the blow. "Suiton: Kaiten!" Still in mid air Hinata's chakra forms with a sphere of water over it slamming Anko into the ground.

Landing lightly Hinata's eyes narrow as "Anko" falls apart revealing herself to have been a Snake Clone. Keeping her arms up Hinata nods as Fū takes to the air while Shino stands beside her. "Is she still here Shino?" Nodding the Aburame smiles behind his jacket as their sensei rises out of the ground before them. "Using your elemental Jūken against me Stutters I'm honored. But you're still a bit too hesitant. So where's Blondie I don't…Oh crap."

Attempting to jump back Anko groans as a golden barrier erupts around them all. Feeling the earth with her chakra Anko grimaces as she can feel the barrier cutting her off from below as well while Fū covers the sky. "So what barrier is this Blondie. Even I can tell it's a hell of alot stronger than the ones you've used before." Stepping through the barrier to Anko's right Naruto smirks at his sensei. "It's one of my mother's own design. She called it the Adamantine Barrier. Isn't it great?"

Looking around Anko has to suppress a shudder at the power the barrier gives off as it is obviously far stronger than Naruto's usual barriers. "Why not give up Anko-sensei? Even Pervy Sage couldn't break this barrier." For a moment Anko considers it before shaking her head as a white snake slithers out of her left sleeve. "No can do brat. I've got a reputation to keep as Konoha's Snake Mistress and the senior Snake Summoner."

From her summon's mouth a elegant looking tanto appears before the snake dispels itself as Anko grips the hilt. "I'm surprised I have to use this on you. Aoda-sama says I need to master this blade before I can use the Kusanagi or give Sasuke permission to use it. Let's see how you handle it." Blitzing forward Anko smirks as her blade is blocked by Naruto's tanto. "Oh you stopped me. That's a surp.." Before she can fully jump away Anko freezes as golden chains burst through the soil below and wrap around her legs and lower half of her torso.

With her chakra stilling Anko laughs as Naruto sighs in relief before he places a sealing tag on her right arm. Pushing his chakra into the tag Naruto only releases his sensei as kanji spreads across her arm and the rest of her body. "Finally…" Releasing his barrier Naruto almost stumbles and falls backwards before Fū grabs him. "Jeez brat how much chakra did this barrier need if it leaves you winded?"

Smiling Naruto raises his left hand just above his waist before shaking it back and forth. "Enough that it's usually made by multiple Uzumaki not just one. But I'm getting better at it." Steadying himself Naruto rolls his shoulders before pointing at the treeline across from them. "You might as well come out Kakashi. I smell you hiding there."

From the treeline Kakashi steps out with a chuckle as Team 8 form up before him. "So your senses can be heightened like the Inuzuka's can. But did Jiraiya-sama teach you enough to beat me?" Nodding Naruto has a very smug smirk on his face as he reaches into his jacket pulling out a small green that instantly gets Kakashi's attention. "Oh I think he did. But why do that when I could just burn this Limited Edition, and signed, first print copy of Pervy Sage's newest book Icha Icha Tactics."

Almost as soon as the words leave Naruto's mouth Kakashi appears before him via a seamless Shunshin before he leaps back with the book in hand. Protectively holding the book Kakashi is about to put it in his jacket's top right pocket before he freezes. Spreading out from the book and onto his body are multiple lines of kanji which causes Naruto to laugh hysterically. "Oh I can't believe that worked! Hahahaha…The look on your face Kakashi….Hahahaha…" Walking forward even as he laughs Naruto places the back edge of his tanto next to Kakashi's neck even as Itachi and the others jump down to join them.

Grabbing the book Naruto erases the seal before releasing the book. "Consider that a gift Kakashi-sensei. Pervy Sage offered it to me but the books are boring." Grumbling about impudent blondes Jiraiya smiles as Naruto and his friends talk and laugh. "You did good you worthless pervert." Looking out the side of his eyes Jiraiya smiles at his former teammate's half insulting compliment before looking over at Tsunade's apprentices. "And for a no good drunkard you trained those three quite well too."

Chuckling the two wave off Naruto's invitation to dinner stating they plan to drink and catch up. After a few more moments the other sensei and elders join them leaving Naruto, his friends, and Kaito with his family alone. "So otōto I noticed you have a blood sealed scroll in your pouch. What's in it?" Pulling out the scroll Naruto gives it a extravagant flourish before sealing it away in his glove with a grin. "You'll see after dinner Kaito-nii! But come on let's go eat!" Leading his friends and family home Naruto visibly relaxes as his home comes into sight surrounded by his extended family.

-Kaze no Kuni-

Deep within the desert two men in black and red cloaks walk slowly across the dunes towards Sunagakure. While one is tall and slender the other seems to be a malformed hunchback with a serrated tail rising up from under his cloak. Lifting his wide brimmed hat the shorter one stares in the direction of Suna.

-Uzumaki Compound-

Sitting in one of the clan's lesser used dining rooms Naruto alongside his friends and family celebrate the blonde's return home. Holding his baby cousin Naruto smiles as the baby laughs at how Naruto's golden chains randomly poke over his shoulders and head as if in a game of peekaboo. Chuckling Kaito smiles while keeping his arm around Harue's waist before motioning towards one of Naruto's friends and whispering.

Holding back a giggle Harue leans forward and taps on Naruto's arm causing him and her child to look over with simialr confused looks. "Hey otōto I know you missed alot but why not let someone else hold Otoya-kun. You can't monopolize one that cute." Nodding Naruto looks around the table and is relieved the others seem content with not holding the baby Uzumaki before he looks at Hinata beside him. "Hey Hinata-chan wanna hold Otoya?"

From in Naruto's arms Otoya let's go of the chain that he was suckling on and reaches out to Hinata babbling. "Nata! Nata!" Smiling Hinata takes the baby boy from Naruto's arms and begins rocking him ever so gently as Naruto watches with a unreadable expression on his face. "Hinata would make a good mother…" Unbidden Naruto's mind turns to the future and he sees a flash of a older Hinata playing with another blonde baby with him.

Blushing at the thought Naruto looks away and shakes his head though not before a few others see the look on his face and smile sweetly. After a few more moments Otoya falls asleep in Hinata's arms causing the others to quiet down before Harue gently takes him and places him in their stroller. "So Naruto, what's in the scroll? You haven't stopped looking at your palm.

Smiling Naruto whistles and motions to get everyone's attention before standing. "I'm glad you all are here tonight, yes even you Sasuke, and to commemorate my glorious return.", at this some of the others laugh and roll their eyes, "I've got you all something I think you'll like." At this the others look up in surprise as a few clones of Naruto bring in a long table and set it down. "So without further ado I'll unseal your gifts and explain a bit about them."

Walking to the table Naruto unseals the scroll before opening it out revealing each person's name written above a seal. "Starting with the most arrogant one of you Tem…I mean Sasuke." Pushing his chakra into the seal Naruto reveals a simple yet elegant Chokuto within it's sheath. Mostly white with a black strip going down the center with the only other color being a Uchiha crest near the blade and one at the base of the hilt sitting atop two silvery Fūma Shurikens with the kanji for fire in their center.

"The sword can be marked by you so you can summon it and same for the shuriken. The kanji near the center though is really cool. I know your clan has a thing for fire so if you push your chakra into that seal the shuriken will alight without losing any of the steel's tempering. Plus they were forged in Tetsu no Kuni so you know they're high quality." Eyes widening Sasuke almost seems to teleport before the table before reaching out and taking the blade.

Trying to keep the smile off his face Sasuke looks over at Naruto before bowing his head briefly. "Who are you and what did you do with Naruto?" Resisting the urge to retort Naruto nevertheless smiles as Sasuke seals his gifts up in a small scroll laying before them. As the others congratulate Sasuke on his gift Naruto walks down the scroll to another name. "Now for the hardest working and strangest guy I know. Rock Lee."

As the night goes on Naruto unseals more and more gifts for his friends much to their gratitude and enjoyment. Finally reaching the last seal Naruto realizes he's left his own teammate for last with a soft smile. "And last but not least for Hinata." Pushing a bit more chakra into the seal Naruto blows away the smoke with a breath revealing a silvery set of mesh armor with forearm guards upon it.

Whistling in surprise Kaito looks over Naruto's shoulders the armor and forearm guards paying special attention to the seals on them. "So otōto who helped you with this? I recognize some of these seals as ones used by our Priests." Motioning for Kaito to quiet down Naruto smiles as Hinata picks up her gifts blushing scarlet as even she can tell they were made different from the others.

Sealing up her mesh armor Hinata gives Naruto a quick but meaningful hug before going back to the table with the others. Sitting down she's immediately the center of attention even with the other gifts still out. Picking up one of the vambraces Karin's eyes widen at the seals on the leather palm. "Hey hey Naruto what is this seal? I don't recognize it. Where'd you get it?" Smiling Naruto sits on the table his clones brought before pointing to himself. "I made it. Hinata-chan told me about how her new taijutsu works and I made a seal to help with it. The seal there increases the conversion of standard chakra into water natured chakra by about fifty percent. Cool right?"

Looking down at the seal's Hinata's eyes widen at the knowledge even as the others stare in shock at the blonde. "How did a nimwit like you make such a seal?" Blowing a raspberry at Sasuke Naruto points to all of their gifts. "I designed all of the custom gifts, repaired ones like Tenten's new staffblade, and placed the seals on all the others. If you look closely you'll see my initials in the central seals."

Lookign down the other's quickly notice the initials before looking up again in surprise. "So the seals on Choji's bō staff?", nodding Naruto forms the seal with his chains, "Neji's vambraces?", again Naruto nods and forms the seal, "Shino's new bottles?" Nodding Naruto forms four different seals behind his back with a satisfied smirk on his face. "Naruto-san I must thank you very much for the improved staffs and vambraces! They will help fan the flames of my youth even higher!"

Bowing Rock Lee quickly wipes a tear from his eyes before taking Yakumo's hand once more. "And thank you for the chakra infusing jar for my paints Naruto. I am sure they will help with my stronger genjutsus." Bowing her head Yakumo holds the sealed up gifts close as one by one the others again thank Naruto for their gifts. Smiling Kaito sits down once more and pulls his wife in close before raising a hand to draw everyone's attention. "Alright now that everyone has thanked Naruto. I'm sure we're all dying to know. How did you afford all this Naruto? Especially things like Sasuke's blades, Tenten's staffblade, Choji's rare cuts of meat, Shino's insects and guides on them, and all the other gifts. They can't have been cheap."

For a moment Naruto's face goes blank before he smiles and makes a zipping motion over his lips with a smirk. "Can't tell you Kaito-nii. But let's just say I made some good money during my time outside the village." Raising a eyebrow at Naruto's surprisingly cryptic answer Kaito shrugs his shoulders before standing. "Alright everyone while I'm sure you'd all like to stay over longer it's late. I'm also sure this knucklehead will see you all more in the coming days but it's time for bed for us all."

In ones and twos the various shinobi and kunoichi say their goodbyes before heading home. Unsurprisingly the last to leave are Naruto's teammates with the exception of Anko who left earlier muttering about her "boy toy." Looking outside Shino gives Fū a subtle sign to leave Naruto and Hinata alone. Saying goodbye the two step outside and sit on a simple stone bench and quietly wish Hinata good luck.

For a moment the two look away awkwardly before trying to speak only to interrupt each other. Three times they try to let the other speak only to again interrupt each other. Finally Naruto covers his mouth and signals for Hinata to go first with his eyes. Giggling for a bit at Naruto's expression Hinata smiles at her first and closest friend before taking a deep breath.

"Thank you again for the gifts Naruto-kun. I really do love them b…", refusing to let her courage fail her Hinata closes her eyes to take a deep breathe, "but I was wondering..If you would like to co..come over to have dinner with me..and my family. I am sure Hanabi-chan missed you and Tousan and Ojisan would like to see you again." Praying internally that her momentary slip up wouldn't be noticed Hinata smiles as Naruto nods enthusiastically.

"Definitely Hinata-chan! I would love to have dinner with yo..your family again. Should we try to plan it for this weekend?" Nodding Hinata once more looks down at her gofts with a smile before looking up as the sound of a object being unsealed suddenly comes from Naruto. Looking up she's frankly astonished and amused at the surprising sight as nearly twenty small boxes have unsealed from a overloaded scroll on his hip.

As Naruto frantically begins grabbing the boxes and putting them in a neat pile Hinata's eyes narrow at the sight of a lone purple box amongst the various red and gold. Briefly tempted to take a peek at what's inside Hinata slightly shakes her head as it and the other boxes are taken away. Before it can get awkward again Naruto closes the distance between them and gives Hinata a tight hug which she quickly returns.

For a few moments the two stay like that till a discrete cough from further in the house tells them both it's time for them to end their hug and head for home or their bed. Sighing Naruto waves goodbye to Hinata as Shino and Fū escorts her home before turning as he hears Karin step around the corner. "So what's in the purple box? Got a special gift for a special someone?" Blushing Naruto looks away before nodding once causing his cousin to laugh before she says goodnight and walks further into the house.

-Kaze-

As the moon rises deep within the Demon Desert two men sit before a small fire finalizing their plans for the coming day.

-Konoha-

Even as the sun barely rises over the village some shinobi can be seen training or heading off for missions around or outside the village. Within the Uzumaki's Compound Naruto waves to his various relatives as he heads for the clan's blacksmith. Entering it Naruto knocks on the counter grinning as he hears the same old cursing and complaining from the back. "Oh come on sofu! I know you're not that decrepit!"

From the back door a weathered and obviously retired shinobi steps through with a grin. "Ah if it isn't the knucklehead himself? What are yah here for Naruto?" Rolling his eyes Naruto removes his tanto from his belt before placing it on the counter. "Kaida-oba told me to have you look over my blade. And I was wondering if you could help me with something private..", Looking around the smithy Naruto smiles, "Could you place a gem into a necklace for me?"

Pulling out the purple box Naruto opens it revealing a small orange gem with a smaller purple one at it's center. Reaching out his hand the older Uzumaki whistles in appreciation at the gem as he looks it over. "That is a *chakra crystal isn't it?" Nodding Naruto looks away embarrassed at man's knowing smile. "Alright you blonde knucklehead I'll do it. Do you know what design you want? Or should I pick that too?"

For a moment Naruto blushes before smiling slightly. "Can you put it within a clasp that looks like our symbol? Or is that too much?" Shaking his head The older Uzumaki ruffles Naruto's hair before taking the box with the gem with a smile. "I'll have it done as soon as I can but no promises brat. The nature of the gem will make things a bit harder, ok?" Nodding Naruto smiles before taking off for his first real day of training with his team in years.

Running through the village Naruto waves to the various shinobi and civilians he passes before taking to the rooftops. Leaping across a wide intersection he smiles as he see's Shino and Fū up ahead. "Oi Shino Fū! Good Morning!" Waving to their hyperactive teammate the two fall in line beside him as they make for their team's usual training ground. "So do you guys like the gifts?" Making a fist Fū nods as the glove's white exterior turns green with her chakra flowing into it. "Oh yeah these are great! Maybe I can match Tsunade-sama's strength now."

Repressing a shudder at the thought Naruto nevertheless smiles at the excited kunoichi before looking at his quiet friend. "And what about you Shino? You like them?" Nodding Shino holds out his left arm as two new insects crawl out from under his jacket. "Me and my clan thank you for the gifts Naruto-san. Though so far I have only managed to figure out how to use the *Denkimushi and the *Astenus but the clan has already begun looking into the others you have brought."

For a moment Naruto and Fū are silent as they look over at Shino who visibly raises one eyebrow before Naruto starts to laugh before shaking his head. "Shino I think that is the most I've ever heard you I've known you since we were kids…" Looking at Naruto Shino surprises him again by shrugging his shoulders before smiling. "You are not the only one to have changed Naruto."

Shrugging his shoulders Naruto smiles before jumping down to the pathway leading to their spot. "So Naruto, how'd you afford all the gifts? Did you do some missions while away?" Shaking his head Naruto makes the motion of locking his lips together before smiling at his friends. "I'm not telling you Fū. It's a secret." Rolling her eyes Fū whistles as they enter the training ground and see Hinata sparring with Anko.

Ducking under a strike from Anko's blades Hinata counters with a blow that barely stops before Anko's heart. Looking down the Jonin seems surprised at Hinata's move before she sheaths her blades and begins to laugh as she hugs the girl close. "Oh that would be a vicious move Stutters! I'm so glad you're on my team!" Spinning Hinata around Anko doesn't stop laughing as she notices the others but instead holds Hinata tight to her side.

-outside Suna-

Atop Suna's fortified cliffs Chunin and Jonin watch the surrounding desert. Near the single entrance one Jonin sees movement just a few dozens meters from the entrance. Focusing on the two figures the Jonin's eyes widen as he notices the red clouds upon their black cloaks. "Contact Captain Yura immediately." Turning to his comrade his eyes widen as he sees his superior is already beside him.

"Captain Yura, some of the men from the organization have showed up!" Pulling at his mask Yura seems strangely calm as he stares down at the two. "I know. Do not worry it will all be over soon." Motioning to his men Yura leads the Suna nin into and atop the opening as the two draw ever closer. As they reach the entrance the two are met by a bloodstained Yura who stands before the bodies of men his men, many with shocked expressions, as they stop.

"Good work Yura.", as the hunched over man looks up at the scene before him his face seems almost too still, "Do you remember me?" Going to one knee Yura seems unfazed by the bloodstained sand below and around him. "Yes, Sasori-sama." Smirking the taller of the two seems amused by the sight while his partner Sasori seems once more a bit too detached. Walking through the entryway soon the two Akatsuki see the entirety of Sunagakure laying before them.

As the two stop the taller one opens his left hand revealing a mouth that opens revealing a small white, clay figure. Tossing the figure onto the sand before him the taller Akatsuki smiles as it's surrounded by a burst of smoke before it's revealed to have grown many times it's original size. Jumping atop the bird the man removes his hat revealing blonde hair and a scope over his eft eye.

"What do you think of this artistic display hmm?" Glaring up at his partner Sasori's seems annoyed at the question with his eyes narrowing. "Do not make me wait too long, Deidara!" Laughing as he directs his clay bird to take off Deidara seems to ignore Sasori's threat as he flies high above the village. "One-Tail, the Jinchuriki of Shukaku, Gaara of the Desert hmm?" Looking down at the village Deidara's seems amused at the coming fight. "Now then I wonder what he's like?"

-Konoha-

"Hey you three! Took you long enough." Rolling his eyes Naruto waves to both before joining them alongside Shino and Fū. "So what's the plan for today Anko-sensei?" Twirling a kunai on her ring finger Anko seems to think before she stops the blade and points it at Naruto. "Since we already had fun sparring why not go back to our usual method of working alone or together on jutsu and such. I'm sure your knucklehead self still needs help."

Rolling his eyes Naruto smiles before reaching into his jacket suddenly. "Oh yeah Anko-sensei, I found this while with Pervy Sage." To her surprise Naruto pulls out a small box and opens it revealing snake pendant earrings. "I thought you'd like them."Tossing the box Naruto smiles as his sensei checks out the earrings before putting them in her jacket. "For a brat you've got good taste Blondie."

Rolling his eyes Naruto shrugs before rolling his shoulders slightly and looking around. "So anyone wanna spar?" Shaking her head while smiling Anko isn't surprised in the slightest at Naruto's question but she is surprised when Fū of all people agrees before Himata or Shino can. "Alright so Naruto versus Fū. What about you Shades? You wanna spar with Stutters or work on something else?"

Again to no surprise Shino shakes his gead as more of his hive comes out and he moves to the edge of the field. "Well Hinata, I guess you can take a breather. Maybe work on that jutsu of yours after though." Nodding Hinata sits down and opens a small meal for herself while Anko practices on her own. Near the back of the field Naruto and Fū stand across from each other.

"So what do you wanna talk about Naruto? I know you'd rather be working with Hinata on whatever it is you two were working on through your letters." Looking away slightly Naruto fights down a blush before taking a breath and looking back at Fū. "I need to talk to someone who understands a certain problem of mine. Me and Pervy Sage tried everything during our trip but nothing worked…It's still overwhelming.."

Instantly understanding Fū nods before closing her eyes before she opens them again but this time the kunoichi's eyes seem to be a darker shade of orange. "You're wondering how to reach a level like ours right?" Nodding Naruto blitzes forward and is met by a equal charge from Fū and Chomei. "Any advice on how to reach your…sibling…I guess.." Shrugging Fū's shoulders Chomei seems to think for a bit even as the two continue to spar. "He's always been a…abrasive one…Unlike me the Lucky Seven Chomei!" Smiling through her jinchuriki the biju chuckles as she can feel her fellow's annoyance at her statement.

"My advice you'll probably have to kick his butt first and THEN try to forge a real friendship. I think his past experiences with humans has left him jaded to say the least. I wish you luck little Uzumaki but I think you'll reach him one day." Nodding Naruto blocks as Fū's eyes return to normal and her movements momentarily stutter. "You two had a good talk. But what now?"

Instead of answering Naruto smiles in a way only a Uzumaki can before grabbing Fū's right arm and flipping her over him and pinning her to the ground in a sudden strike. "Now I win." Rolling her eyes Fū winces slightly as Naruto helps her up before stretching and letting her wings out briefly to blow the dust off her back. "That was mean…You sure Anko-sensei didn't train you these last three years?" Laughing Naruto smiles before shrugging his shoulders.

"Pervy Sage can be a tricky opponent when he wants to be…Now if only he wasn't a pervert he would've been a nearly perfect sensei." Laughing Fū smiles before joining Naruto in jogging back to the others. "I see you two had a good spar. I think it's time we get some lunch. Any ideas", before Naruto can say a word Anko looks over at him, "And no Ichiraku. Unless you're paying for us all."

For a moment Naruto weighs his desire to get some Ichiraku with the bill he'd have to pay before smiling. "Alright I'll do it. But afterwards can we come back? I wanna show you guys something cool." Raising a eyebrow Anko shrugs before she and the others nod at Naruto's expectant smile. "Fine brat but next time we're going somewhere else." As the five leave the training ground Naruto smiles contently as they head for Ichiraku Ramen.

Reaching the stand Naruto is surprised to see it's grown a bit in the last few years. Lifting the cloth with a chain Naruto smiles as his friends head in and take a seat right at the front. "Hey Old Man Teuchi, you still remember me?" Looking up Teuchi stares for a moment before a very big smile spreads across his face. "Naruto! Is that really you!?" Walking out from behind his counter the ramen chef gives Naruto a hug as his daughter joins him in the front.

Looking up slightly at Naruto Ayame ruffles Naruto's hair slightly before telling him to sit down. "So you've finally come back eh. How was your training with Jiraiya-sama?" Smiling Naruto shrugs his shoulders before telling the two about his time outside the village while Teuchi prepares his friend's orders. Placing a large bowl of miso ramen in front of Naruto Ayame rolls her eyes at his over the top reaction to his first taste. "Oh calm down you knucklehead. I'm sure you had plenty of place's ramen outside the village."

To everyone's surprise Naruto shakes his head even as he continues to eat. "Oh now that's a surprise. Blondie not eating ramen while we came here occasionally." Looking up from his bowl Naruto seems surprised at the news before looking at Teuchi and Ayame who nod at his unasked question. "Yep they came here at least once a month. Same with your other friends. In fact one of them best your record of 23 bowls Naruto."

Looking up in shock Naruto looks between his team and the two behind the counter quickly before smiling. "Well looks like I've gotta challenge them to see who can eat more." As Ayame and the others laugh Hinata tries not to draw Naruto's attention even as Anko winks at her. Letting the five resume their meal and talks Ayame and Teuchi smile as Naruto tells them about his time away.

Nearly a hour later Naruto pays the bill before waving goodbye and heading back to the training ground laughing and joking. As they enter the training ground Naruto motions for everyone to stand back before pulling out a single explosive tag. "Notice anything different about this?" Handing the tag over the others look it over before Hinata and Anko look up at him. "It's filled with elemental chakra, but why?"

Smiling Naruto takes the tag back before using a chain to place it amongst a few straw targets further out. "This is why. Kai!" To the other's shock the tag detonates and a massive blue fireball with a white center explodes outwards incinerating the targets and leaving a near molten crater in the center. "You guys know the story of how Pervy Sage and Tsunade-baachan got their titles as Sannin right?" Nodding Anko's eyes widen as she realizes what he's implying.

"You copied Hanzo's use of elemental chakra in his tags but replaced Fire with Wind. Right?" Nodding Naruto pulls out another tag before putting it down on a stump between them all. "When the pervert told me about how effective Hanzo the Salamander's tags were I had to make my own. But I had to design my own to work with my chakra. Cool right?" Nodding Anko briefly wonders how the knucklehead is so gifted with seals before shrugging slightly. "I think it's time we call it a day. Meet here tomorrow at the usual time. We'll train for a bit before going on a mission. Understand?"

As the four nod Anko looks at the still smoking hole Naruto's tag put in the ground before chuckling. "Oh and Naruto don't use that kind of tag in the village anymore. I doubt Itachi-sama would be happy with you." Nodding Naruto shrugs slightly as he expected the rule before he and his team head back into the village before separating. Stopping with Hinata at the corner she has to take to head home Naruto tries to speak twice before taking a deep breath.

"Hey….Hinata-chan…I was…I was wondering would you like to go out to eat with me this..this Saturday?" Eyes widening Hinata nods quickly even as she blushes scarlet even as Naruto blushes while looking away. "I…I would lo…really like that Naruto-kun." Looking at Hinata Naruto soon has a brilliant smile on his face and he quickly envelopes Hinata in a tight hug before saying goodbye.

Laughing slightly at Naruto's reaction as he takes off along the rooftops Hinata's eyes widen as she realizes what just happened. Purely on instinct the scarlet faced heiress walks home with her face covered. Responding robotically to the clan's guards and her sister she misses the small smiles on their faces and their active Byakugans. Laughing quietly the guards and Hanabi soon spread the word around the compound. As this occurs Naruto lands in his clan's compound and almost seems to teleport into Kaito's house.

Sitting in their living room Harue sits with a single raised eyebrow as she rocks her sleeping toddler as Naruto seems to almost vibrate as he sits. "Otōto what's gotten into you?" In what feels like five seconds given how quickly Naruto tells her everything Harue's face goes from confused to happy to amused. "So you asked Hinata on a date?", as Naruto smiles and nods Harue gently puts her baby down, "About time. So where are you going to take her? And please don't say Ichiraku's." For the next hour Harue helps Naruto plan his date before both say hi as Kaito walks in covered in dust.

"I'm back anata!…Oh hey otōto what are you doing here? And why are you shaking like that?" Telling Kaito of what happened Harue laughs as Kaito acts just as excited as Naruto typically does and wraps him up in a tight hug before he suddenly separates and facepalms. "Oh shot! I forgot to tell you. Kaida wants to see you with the Elder's. Just let me wash up and I'll take you there. Sorry Harue-koi.." Understanding Harue offers to grab him a change of clothes as Kaito runs into their bathroom and quickly begins to wash off.

Within fifteen minutes Kaito has showered and changed before he nearly pulls Naruto out the front door much to Harue and Otoya's amusement. Heading for the Clan's primary hall Naruto and Kaito talk as they move through the compound. As they near the building Kaito pulls two tags out of his jacket's inner pocket and fills them with chakra. "You'll have to learn this seal later. It serves as the key." Momentarily confused Naruto's eyes widen as he begins to realize just what he may be seeing.

Knocking on the Elder's door Kaito and Naruto are quickly called in and before them sit the clan's Elders, Kaida it's regent, and Tsunade. "Ah Kaito you didn't forget good. Now Naruto, I assume you can guess what we're about to show you?", as Naruto nods Kaito places both seals on the floor before activating them, "Needless to say this is a secret you must not share without express permission."

Gesturing to the floor Kaida nods as the seals activation causes the floor to seem to flow back revealing a staircase with tags covering it's walls while small lights begin to shine. "Tsunade you can go with. It's nearly time for their check-up anyways." With a sad smile Tsunade leads Naruto and Kaito down the stairway while behind them the floor seems once more to flow back into it's original position.

Looking at the sealing tags placed throughout the stairway Naruto is surprised at both their level and variety as none are below B-rank in difficulty. "The clan built this soon after buying the land under the Kazama name. The Priests and Elders worked fir nearly a week straight to secure and hide it. Originally it was meant to be a bunker but things changed with the Kyūbi's attack…"

As they reach the bottom Naruto is surprised at the scale of the room they enter as has dozens of triple layer beds alongside crates of preserved food, multiple large jugs of water, and medical supplies. "This is the main room further back we have a small hospital ward…And it's two patients." In a almost dazed state Naruto begins to walk towards the center doors even as Tsunade and Kaito decide to give him a bit of space and privacy.

Pushing open the doors Naruto momentarily stares at the curtains separating two beds from all the others. Barely able to keep his legs from shaking Naruto steps forward and with a shaking hand pulls back the curtain before walking in. Side by side he sees them laying there as if they're sleeping peacefully holding hands while the machines around them beep quietly.

Without conscious thought he steps forward till he's in between them and sits in a chair he doesn't remember grabbing and shakily places his hand over theirs. "Hey Kaasan..Outosan…" Near the stairwell Tsuande and Kaito wipe away a few tears as they barely make out Naruto crying before they faintly hear him speak to them. Giving him all the time he needs Tsuande only enters when the sounds die off and smiles sadly as she pulls back the curtains revealing him sleeping with his head on the nightstand while still holding their hands.

Using her chakra to put Naruto into a deeper sleep Tsunade motions for Kaito to take Naruto back before going on with her own checkup. In the back of her mind she swears she can hear the two celebrating at meeting their son again as she uses medical jutsu to make sure they're still healthy. "He'll be alright…And I'm sure he'll find a way to wake you two…Someday…"

-Suna-

As the sun dips below the village's natural walls three small explosions sound even as a pale white bird with a figure atop it dives down at the Kazekage's Tower. As Deidara looks up he's surprised to see Gaara standing before him with his arms crossed as he looks down at the Akatsuki member. "That's as far as you go." Even as Gaara says this around him grains of sand begin to rise up around him alongside darker and more reflective materials.

*-a wind jutsu much like the usual dragon style jutsus with the only change being it's typically has a light green or bluish tint to it A-rank
*-it's canon that some shinobi form crystals out of their chakra tho they aren't of a really high quality
*-real Japanese nickname for a hairy caterpillar that has chemicals on it's hairs that make it feel like you've been shocked I'll give yah one guess to how it can be used lol
*-a type of beetle from Indonesia with toxic blood again you get one guess for it's use lol

As always thanks for reading! And I'll see y'all again in the next chapter where we get to see the first real arc of Shippuden RotW plus a bit of fluff lol. Below is a list of the gifts Naruto got everyone since I didn't want to leave people in the dark for long.

Gifts in case y'all wanna know and yes I'll expand on the more unique gifts in future chapters/fights
Team 8
Hinata-Seal enhanced armor and vambraces that help boost her elemental taijutsu plus the special gift
Shino-specially crafted bottles that are far larger on the inside than they appear to be plus new kinds of insects and how to care for them/potential use
Fū-gloves that are far stronger than they appear and capable of handling Chōmei's chakra
Team 7
Sasuke-blade like he had in canon just with the added benefit of a summoning seal and the seal enhanced Fūma Shuriken
Sakura-scrolls on medical fuinjutsu, genjutsu, medical jutsu, and armored gloves kinda like she had in canon just with a symbol shaped like Sakura petal on them
Kiba-clawed gauntlets for him, light armor for Akamaru, and a taijutsu scroll
Jūgo-books on meditation, gardening, and about his clan
Team 9
Neji-armored vambraces and scrolls on various styles of taijutsu similar to Jūken
Tenten-a seal enhanced Staffblade & high level scrolls on fuinjutsu
Rock Lee-metal half staffs that can be combined & have seals for absorbing/releasing chakra plus scrolls on various forms of taijutsu
Team 10
Shikamaru-various strategy games & chakra absorbing blades that can work with his clan jutsu
Chōji-ironwood Bō staff enhanced with seals that can not just make it heavier/lighter & rare/expensive cuts of meat in a specially made scroll that keeps them fresh
Ino-books on the mind, jutsu similar to her clan's, & expensive perfume
Team 11
Yakumo-jars that can infuse paint with chakra so she doesn't have to for genjutsu & a scroll on a evasive style of taijutsu
Yama Fūma-specially made Fūma shuriken kinda like Sasuke's only enhanced by lightning & seal enhanced kunai
Karin-the medical scrolls he got from Taisune, jutsu based around sensory skills, and rare perfumes