Naruto ducked under a golden chain as it tried to wrap his neck. Rolling left he jumped straight up and unleashed a barrage of Shadow Senbon. The young redheaded girl he was sparring unleashed a short gust of strong wind to blow the blunt projectiles away. Thrusting out her left palm a second gold chain shot out of Karin's new long sleeved purple battle kimono cuff, which the Jinchuriki dodged by substituting with a Shadow Clone; he kept several spaced out for such an occasion. Over the last month the blonde had practiced more with Ninjutsu tactics than Genjutsu. Sparring with Jiraiya was when he brought all his skill to the table; at the moment only Taijutsu and Ninjutsu were allowed.

Reappearing several yard away the boy bit his thumb and summoned Gamakichi; a small orange toad with dark purple lines around his eyes, over his eyebrows, and swirled on the sides of his belly; those particular markings were barely visible under his light blue grey vest. Naruto picked the small amphibian up in his left hand and channeled his Wind Release Chakra with his right. The toad's cheeks bulged before unleashing a massively intense fireball bigger than an average grown man. The Jinchuriki exuberantly called out. "Collaboration Jutsu: Swamp Gas Flame Bomb!"

Karin's eyes widened comically behind her glasses as she ran through hand signs of her own. Opening her mouth wide she inhaled a massive tornado along with her cousin's jutsu as it was reduced back to chakra. "Uzumaki Art; Life Leech Consumption Cyclone! (1)

Feeling her reserves of power fill to overflowing levels the girl made the familiar cross fingered hand sign. "Shadow Clone Jutsu!"

Each clone pulled shuriken and began applying wind chakra. Creating large spinning blades of transparent death, the army of redheads hurled their jutsu to defeat the boy. Naruto, laughing happily, summoned Gamakichi's younger brother, Gamatatsu; a chubby little yellow toad with orange markings around his eyes and lips wearing a deep blue vest. Channeling his wind chakra again the Jinchuriki's summoned toad, held tight to the boy's chest, spewed out a massive amount of water as the Genin cried. "Collaboration Jutsu: Arctic Tsunami!" Both Uzumaki's jutsu clashed and canceled out; Karin's wind blades unable to cut through Naruto's super dense cold wind/water collaboration technique. The girl's Shadow Clones dispersed running out of chakra.

Off to the side Jiraiya, Danzo, and Shomei watched as the two Genin had their jutsu spar. Leaping upwards the three easily cleared the cast off water from Naruto's jutsu as it filled the floor of the underground training area. The older redhead shot the Sannin an aggravated look. "Really, don't think you over did it a little with the jutsu training."

"Hey, don't look at me." The hermit mockingly defended. "All I taught him was summoning. It was Danzo that taught him Wind Release. I may have explained summoning collaboration jutsu, but the gaki was the one that pieced it all together. Just be glad he only understands how to mold with one toad at a time; otherwise he would be applying wind to Gamakichi's fire and Gamatatsu's oil. You don't want to know what that superheated inferno would feel like in these close quarters."

Back with Naruto and Karin, both Genin clashed using wind blades from kunai. Duel swords crossed while baring down on each other, the girl opened her mouth and inhaled a small amount of air. The blonde's elemental blades and shadow kunai vanished as the chakra was eaten. The bespectacled girl continued forward, still holding her real kunai after eating her own wind blade, and tried to capture her cousin. The boy managed to substitute away again as the girl accidentally stabbed his clone. Reappearing at the edge of the arena the boy's blue eyes widened as he ducked a blunted kunai streaking towards his face.

"That was a nice move on Karin's part; both eating the jutsu and following Naruto's escape." Jiraiya commented thoughtfully. Looking towards Shomei he asked with a smirk. "Your doing?"

"Yep." The older Kunoichi smirked. "We were able to invent a Fuinjutsu Tag that works with her glasses. Allows her to trace chakra based movements such as Substitution and Shunshin."

Karin and Naruto once more charged each other; this time with wind coated fists. The redhead didn't bother clashing with the stronger boy as she suckered him in close. The moment the Jinchuriki was in range she unleashed her smaller Adamantine Chains from the bottom of her battle kimono. Wrapping her cousin up tight the redhead moved in to simulate biting his neck to win the spar. The moment her teeth sank into the soft flesh of her opponent the boy began laughing. This confused the Kunoichi as the felt a kunai rest at her own neck.

"That was clever." Karin smirked with prideful admiration as the blonde she was holding vanished in a puff of smoke. "Earlier when I was distracted by the Swamp Gas Flame Bomb, you must have switched out with your Solid Clone Jutsu; right?"

"Yep!" Naruto confirmed happily. "Afterwards Kobachi swallowed me to hide underground. Then it became a waiting game for you to lower your guard."

Karin sighed as the boy dismissed his kunai. Her ability to eat chakra and jutsu had two weaknesses that her cousin exploited. One, only what was immediately inside the wind cone was devoured, and two the Solid Clone was a more compacted jutsu than most; meaning it wasn't as vulnerable. Using Fuinjutsu allowed Naruto to create the thing by compressing large amounts of chakra into the humanoid shape. Because of this the clone wouldn't immediately fall apart under her Life Leech Consumption Cyclone, not unless she waisted time and chakra of her own to press the attack; which gave it a greater illusion of being the real Naruto. (2)

Both Genin looked up when they heard clapping. There Sensei all approached from the sidelines as Naruto's chakra generated water finally began evaporating. Danzo took the initiative and stating. "Adequate, both of you. However I think Naruto-san should take it easy from this moment on. The finals are in two days."

"That would be best actually." Jiraiya agreed. "We can leave and get some fresh air."

"Yay, I can go see Hina-hime in person." Naruto excitedly jumped up and down. "She was hoping I could have dinner with her family."

"Your actually looking forward to dinner with the Hyuga Clan?" Karin asked disbelievingly. "That's going to be a disaster. You'll have to set there silently and act like a perfect….. Can I go too?"

"I don't see why not." The boy smiled happily. "I'm sure Hinata would like to met you."

"Yeah, y'all have fun with that." The Toad Sage rolled his eyes. Giving off a creepy smile he gushed. "I have some research that I've been neglecting anyways. Hehehehe."

Shomei gave the old hermit an angry glare threatening. "If your research brings you anywhere around me, again, I'll force feed you your most prized possession."

"Now Shomei, that was a complete accident." Jiraiya tried placating unconvincingly. "I had no idea you were in the shower."

"It was my scheduled time, you damned fool." The redhead seethed under her breath.

Both Genin looked between the adults questioningly, they still weren't exactly sure what happened. A week ago they had been eating dinner when Jiraiya came flying by backwards wearing nothing but his pants; unconscious, nose busted. The old man claimed he just wasn't paying attention and walked in on Shomei at the wrong time; didn't help he had a bottle of Sake with him.

"Whatever, let's get out of here." Naruto dismissed as he summoned Kobachi again. The brown toad looked up waiting for orders. "Take me and Karin to the surface."

"Hold on." The young redhead questioned. "Why don't we just leave the way we came in at the start of the month. I'd prefer that than being…."

The Kunoichi wasn't able to finish as the toad took her distraction as an opening. With lightning fast speed his tongue wrapped around both her ankles as he reeled Karin in and swallowed. Quickly doing the same to Naruto Kobachi sank beneath the floor.

Jiraiya watched his newest student disappear without a word. The moment both Genin were gone the goofy carefree smile he normally always had vanished. Giving Danzo and Shomei an unreadable look the hermit commented. "There always cute at that age, regardless of talent and power. I look forward to watching them both grow up to be fine Leaf Shinobi, and I sincerely hope nothing jeopardizes that outcome; foreign or domestic."

With that subtle threat the Toad Sage slowly walked off. Shomei watched him go without comment. The second he was out of ear shot she turned to the old mummy and asked. "Do you have need of me Lord Danzo?"

"At the moment no." The warhawk stated as he to began walking off. "Just stay close to your kin and keep a vigil for danger. The Leaf is under threat of invasion and we must be on guard."

….. Training Ground Three …..

Mayako sat enjoying a cup of tea with Kurenai as he Samurai Guards stood ready. Suddenly from the left side came a small borage of small sized stone fists. Each one streaking for the two Kunoichi. The samurai quickly moved to intercept the attack and easily shredded the projectiles with their swords. A follow up came from the opposite side, launched the moment both men moved to stop the first attack, but the elderly Uzumaki parried each stone fist with a folded fan she had been using. Sighing sadly she returned to fanning herself while taking a sip of tea.

The last two weeks had pretty much been this form of training. Deciding on the Fuinjutsu Techniques to graft, Mayako had gone with some basic elemental jutsu for Sakura to use. The young pinkette's natural born element was Earth Release, which was ideal for the jutsu she was currently using; Fuinjutsu Art: Uzumaki Elemental Mimicry.

This technique allowed the user to channel chakra into a seal on top of their wrists to form first affinity constructs that mimicked their hands. If Sakura made a left hand fist while powering the technique and punched outward, than a stone first in the form of her left hand would shoot from the ground. Another seal on top of each hand allowed for a multiplication factor and a seal on each palm allowed for an enlargement factor. Obviously the more projectiles she created, or the larger the construct, the more chakra the jutsu consumed.

The rate of chakra consumption was actually the biggest weakness of the technique. It was an Uzumaki Art only because you needed the clan's unnatural dense chakra to make it work. Sakura had yet to fully master the elemental change for earth, which also added to the chakra drain. The first thing Mayako did after grafting the Fuinjutsu was have the young Kunoichi block a fire ball with two enlarged flat stone palms. The strain of creating the makeshift wall caused the pinkette to instantly pass out; which was the old woman's intent. Grafted Fuinjutsu was an extremely fatal double edged sword as the kanji took whatever power was needed to work, regardless of whether or not the caster had the chakra to spare. If not for Sakura's natural born chakra control Mayako would never have entrusted her with the jutsu; more inexperienced Uzumaki had died from chakra exhaustion as a result of grafted Fuinjutsu than any other training misshape.

Sensing danger the elderly redhead leaned her to the right as Kurenai bent backwards. A stone projectile in the form of two hands with fingers making a pointed cone missed them both by inches. Out of the back, formed by the palms making a cup, was a greenish streak of chakra generating a propulsion force. This was one of Sakura's own discoveries, combining medical chakra with the Uzumaki Elemental Mimicry to creat a makeshift rocket.

Shoichi stood stalk still with his katana pulled sensing outward for the young Kunoichi. He was actually proud of the fact he hadn't found her yet. Over the last couple of weeks the Kunoichi had practiced fighting from the shadows while staying hidden. The man turned as he felt a chakra spike at the edge of his senses. Utilizing the Chakra Blade Pulse Technique he zeroed in on the girl's location. Faster than his younger partner could follow the grey haired man shot twenty yards away and plunged his sword straight into the ground.

"Impressive Sakura-san, this was the longest you managed to remain hidden."

The ground in front of the samurai began cracking before falling away to reveal the young girl. Pouting she glared up with annoyed green eyes as she climbed out of the hole. Under her breath she growled out low. "Baka."

"Come here little Sakura-chan, we need to discuss your positives and negatives." Mayako called out happily.

The Kunoichi sulked over to her Sensei and elder as both Samurai followed. The two men sat down on Mayako's left while the pinkette on her right. Everyone fixed a cup of tea as the elderly Uzumaki explained. "That was very impressive work Sakura-chan. You managed to effectively hide while coordinating a Ninjutsu offensive. Your jutsu work was also well coordinated and thought out. I'm sure you stand a descent chance against Naruto-kun."

"Yeah," The pinkette sulked. Placing her violin case on the ground she studied a new scroll holster on the bottom for quick release. "But it still kind of feels like cheating."

"Why?" Mayako asked somewhat annoyed. "Because I gave you most of your new arsenal? Are you upset you didn't do the Fuinjutsu work yourself That's a foolish way to think, especially for a Kunoichi. Ninja buy Explosive Tags all the time and use them in combat; they didn't create them and no one ever says they cheated to win; mainly because their usual dead. Now granted, what I gave you are more powerful than explosive paper tags but the Shinobi principal still holds."

"Yeah, but when I beat that blonde knucklehead I don't want anyone second guessing my victory." The girl explained with fire in her green eyes.

Kurenai on her tea and gave her student a stern frown. "That's a foolish notion Sakura. No Shinobi would ever call you out on such a thing and you know it. If you beat Naruto he'll be the first one to congratulate you."

The Kunoichi looked away somewhat ashamed as her sensei continued. "Also, we need to discuss other weapons in your arsenal that can give you an edge against Naruto."

"What do you mean by that?" Sakura asked curiously as she turned back to the adults.

Mayako shook her head with a disappointment sigh. "You really need to think about who you're fighting dear. You have several advantages against Naruto than most in the Chunin Exam Finals. Your one of his two Kunoichi teammates. You can play to his chivalrous side and fake weakness; habit's kind of ingrained at this point. Also, he might unintentionally pull his punches because he won't want to hurt you. All of this can greatly contribute to your win."

The pinkette looked shocked and disgusted. "I am not going to fake a sprained ankle or …. tears just to sucker my teammate in for a cheep shot."

Kurenai took a sip from her cup and casually asked. "Sakura, have I ever told you about the time I flashed an enemy so my boyfriend could sneak up and deliver a killing blow?"

"I can top that." Mayako chuckled humorously. "Imagine charging into an enemy encampment wearing only your tool kit and a smile. I was also a lovely young twenty at the time. Hehehehe. You never saw an enemy drop his guard so fast."

….. Hyuga Compound …..

Hinata stood nervously bouncing on her feet. Naruto had sent word via toad that he would be able to have dinner with her family if it was possible. She had eagerly told the small amphibian to inform her boyfriend it was alright, and he could bring his family members if they wanted to come; his Shadow Clones had mentioned Karin a few times over the last couple of weeks.

Turning at the sound of footsteps the indigo haired girl watch as her family walked approached. Hanabi was dressed in a white kimono over her usual gray sleeveless outfit with fishnet undershirt. Hiashi was dressed in his grayish white formal clan head kimono like always; same as her grandfather who the young heiress was surprised showed up. However; it was her older cousin Neji that was truly shocking to see. The tall brunette was dressed in a kimono of midnight blue with light blue cuffs and high collar. His hair was sleeked back in a tight ponytail that looked like it hurt. A silk white cloth covered his cage bird seal.

"Neji-nissan?" The girl inquired bewildered.

The older boy turned to his cousin and spoke formally while ignoring the questioning look. "Lady Hinata, I hope you are well."

The Kunoichi looked to her father and grandfather for answers but only received masks of stone. Her baby sister was glancing up slyly at the well dressed boy while smirking g ever so slightly. It was obvious to Hinata she wanted to laugh out loud but was showing restraint.

Seeing Neji's eyebrows slightly narrow in concentration the girl turned to see Naruto and a redheaded girl approaching. Like her the blonde Jinchuriki was dressed in a clean Genin outfit. The redhead wore a simple long sleeved purple battle kimono over fishnet. The young Hyuga Kunoichi looked but didn't see Shomei anywhere.

"Hey Hina-hime!" Naruto yelled out happily. Running up he hugged his girlfriend and kissed her cheek. He knew better than to try anything else under the watchful eyes of Hiashi Hyuga.

"Naru-kun." The girl blushed. Looking to the new girl she waited for introductions.

The Jinchuriki took the hint and explained. "Hinata, this is my third cousin, also of my family's royal line, Uzumaki Karin. Karin, this is my girlfriend Hinata Hyuga, her baby sister Hanabi, her father Hiashi, her cousin Neji, and I'm not sure how the old guy is but I'm guessing he's a Hyuga too."

The stone face of the elder cracked for a second as he almost gave a scowl. Formally the man introduced himself. "Hyuga Elder, and former clan head, Hyuga Kizaki."

"Oh, you must be Hinata's grandfather then!" The blonde deduced happily. "High, pleased to meet you."

"Likewise." The man managed to scoffed without emotion. Only the Hyuga Clan present caught the offense.

Neji quickly walked forward in hopes of preventing tension. "Naruto-san, it's good to see you again. May I show you and your lovely cousin to the dinning room?"

"Lovely?" The boy pondered with a hand on his chin.

Karin reared back and smacked the back of her blonde cousin's head hard; causing him to face plant into the ground. The redhead then smiled as she walked forward and took the brunette's offered arm. "Thank you Neji-san, I would be honored."

The Hyuga began walking off as Hinata helped her boyfriend pull his face out the ground. Spitting grass from his teeth the irritated blonde grumbled. "Hina-chan, did I miss something?"

The brunette giggled as she led the oblivious Jinchuriki to dinner. "I think Neji-nissan has been ordered by my clan to court Karin."

"What why!?" The boy asked shocked.

"You said it yourself Naru-kun; she's a Royal Uzumaki."

The Genin grumbled angrily as he pouted. "My cousin isn't some damned prize."

Hinata just gave her blonde knucklehead a sad smile and patted his elbow. "What can you do. In case you haven't noticed grownups can be stupid when it comes to who we marry, especially when power is involved. Have you forgotten what Nobuo Yukio tried to pull with you and his granddaughter?"

Naruto refused to comment as they made the dinning room. There the boy saw Hiashi setting at the head of a rectangular table with his father on one side followed by Hanabi then Neji. Karin sat across from the older boy with two seats between herself and the Hyuga Clan Head. Hinata quickly took the chair next to her dad while her boyfriend sat next to his cousin. He wasted no time in shooting the long haired brunette a death glare.

"So Naruto-san, how has your training been going?" Hiashi asked to break the tension. "I've deduced, from the many Shadow Clones transported to my daughter with the use of toads, your working with Lord Jiraiya."

"Yep, Pervy Sage and another man named Danzo Shimura." The boy explained happily. "I've learned a lot regarding Fuinjutsu and Elemental Ninjutsu this month. My personal favorites are the collaboration arts I preform with the toads."

Neji blink a few time before asking. "Pervy Sage?"

"The Sannin, Lord Jiraiya, is an author of sorts." Hiashi explained offhandedly. "Most would call his book series adult oriented."

"Most, they all." The blonde grumbled.

"What's the book series called?" Hanabi asked curiously.

"Make out." Karin smiled at the little girl. "Usually comes in an orange cover; can't miss it."

The little eight year old thought it over with a pout and turned to Kizaki. "Grandfather, haven't I seen you with an orange book before?"

The Hyuga Elder refused to answer as Hiashi quickly pressed on. "So Karin-san, have you been training with Lord Jiraiya as well?"

"No sir, mainly with Lord Danzo on Wind Release alongside Naruto, and another cousin or our's named Shomei." Taking a sip of tea she concluded. "Focus of training has been on understanding my personal Uzumaki Born Abilities."

"Oh, you have more than one?" Hinata caught intrigued.

"Three to be exact, but enough about me." The redhead changed tactics realizing she was revealing to much. "How has your training over the month gone Hinata-san. Naruto mentioned you were into Genjutsu like himself."

Kizaki watched silently as his granddaughter talked with the Uzumaki Kunoichi. It was obvious Hinata understood the clan's intensions but was doing nothing to draw Neji into an interaction. The old Hyuga was forced to lessen as the future clan heiress talked of her bastardized Juken Instruction and Genjutsu Skill; all why his grandson sat there like a useless dolled up log.

"So Neji, you been training this last month?" Naruto asked out of boredom.

"My uncle has been instructing me in more advanced Juken Style Techniques." The brunette explained uncaring. "So far my skills have grown exponentially."

'Another bastardization of Hyuga Tradition and Practices.' Kizaki thought bitterly. Ever since the end of the preliminary matches Hiashi had taken the boy under his wing. Teaching him techniques that were normally known only by the Main Branch, Neji had become a rising star. 'If my son continued with his foolishness the Hyuga Clan will be unrecognizable in a few generations.'

Dinner, consisting of roasted duck, red bean soup, and fried rice, was served by the staff as Hiashi was about to inquire about the Uzumaki Clan. Waiting for everyone to plate their portions the man addressed his daughter's boyfriend. "So Naruto, what is your eldest cousin like?"

"Shomei, she's cool." The blonde shrugged. "Doesn't like Jiraiya very much, Pervy-Sage tried peeking in the bath while she was in the tube. It was funny watching him fly backwards across the training room. I think she'll be working closely with Danzo Sensei from now on; mentioned something along those lines."

"This Jiraiya sounds like a very rude man." Hanabi grumbled. "He sounds like a real jerk."

"Now, now, Hanabi." Hiashi placated. "The man has his quirks, but he's a master of Fuinjutsu and a powerful Leaf Shinobi."

"What would you do if he ever tried anything like that with me or Hinata?"

"I'd kill him." Hiashi said in his usual stock manner. "However I doubt that will ever be the case. From what I heard the man has a no nonsense policy when it comes to inappropriate behavior towards children. The last story I heard regarding Master Jiraiya and a noble lord he personally caught in the act wasn't pretty. The fool was begging fir death long before the Fuinjutsu Master allowed him to die."

The children at the table gulped as Naruto mentally promised to be nicer to the old hermit when he saw him again. Hiashi, trying to lighten the mood, asked Karin. "Perhaps after dinner you and my daughter can spar a little dear? I'm curious to see how her skills measure up to a non-Hyuga combatant."

"I'm ok with that if Hinata is." The redhead explained. The indigo haired girl nodded her head in acceptance as she continued eating.

"So Karin-san, how are you finding Hidden Leaf so far?" Neji asked hoping to break the ice.

"You can drop the san if you like Neji." The girl smiled batting her brown eyes while also forgoing the honor suffix. "The truth is I haven't really seen much of the village yet. I was in a special underground training room all month. Maybe you can take me aight seeing later?"

"I'd be most honored, Karin." The boy answered formally. Naruto's blue eyes darted suspiciously from his cousin to the Hyuga Prodigy. The pout he sported clearly showing his dislike of the idea.

Later found everyone outside watching as the two Genin Kunoichi squared off. Both girls silently sized the other up before Hiashi addressed. "No destructive Ninjutsu or crippling blows. Begin."

Hinata didn't waist time as she charged Byakugan active. Karin countered by unleashing her Adamantine Chains to wrap up the Hyuga's legs. The bluenette easily jumped over them as she came down to deliver a Juken strike to the chest. The redhead allowed the blow to hit and hurried her fist into her opponent's stomach; causing her to fly backwards.

"What was that!?" Hanabi asked amazed. "Big sister's attach had no effect."

"Wind Release: Gentle Breeze Body Armor." Naruto explained. "A technique we both invented after learning the Gentle Breeze application from Lord Danzo. Allows the user to expel a soft amount of chakra laced air from their lungs to do a variety of things. Hinata was using a low powered strike so it had no effect. Had she used a stronger attempt Karin wouldn't have shrugged it off so easily."

Back with Hinata the heiress was mentally figuring her opponent. She didn't want to hurt Naruto's cousin so had held back. It would appear that was a mistake. 'Alright Uzumaki Karin, let's see what your really capable of."

Channeling chakra to her throat in unique way the bluenette began hissing. Naruto was surprised when his girlfriend's body outline became hazy as she split apart into multiple copies that charged at Karin. Each copy was hard to get a fix on as they all appeared blurred around the edges. Utilizing a new style of Taijutsu that reminded the blonde of Anko Sensei, the smaller girl laid into the taller redhead with deadly precision.

Karin, having enough, began covering her palms with the Gentle Breeze. Charging her jutsu to a quarter power she clapped hard. "Wind Release: Gentle Push."

The technique, which was anything but gentle, carried outward in a dense wall of air. Hinata ran smack into the transparent mass and was thrown backwards by the impact. Rolling and bouncing away the Hyuga Princess righted herself quickly and took her basic Juken Stance.

"That was impressive." Neji casually commented. "Both Lady Hinata's use of a duel Genjutsu / Taijutsu assault and Karin's response."

"Yes, the technique Hinata used was actually an Illusion channeled by a snake hissing technique her summons taught her." Hiashi clarified proudly. "The hissing allows her to saturate the air around her body with chakra using a special technique of the snakes, then she generates a basic clone jutsu that reacts with the setup in the manner you witnessed. Even under the Byakugan's sight the jutsu is hard to perceive though because of the chakra saturation. Illusion Art: Striking Snake Dance."

Karin regained her composure as she took a ready stance. The redhead understood this wouldn't be an easy spar. Her cousin had spoken highly of his girlfriend for the last month; so she understood the Hyuga was no push over. However, pressing an attack wasn't in her best interest, especially since she couldn't use he more powerful jutsu like Gentle Breeze: Giant Wind Shuriken, so she would have to rely on defensive tactics.

Curiously Karin watched as the birds on Hinata's wraps began peeling themselves off. The lavender birds circled lazily as the slowly narrowed in. A flurry of feathers obscured the Uzumaki's view as Hinata vanished.

'Interesting, from what I feel my chakra's been compromised. This must be what Naruto was talking about with the chakra compound. She must have infected me when she got in close for Taijutsu. Luckily I don't need my eyes."

Feeling out with her chakra sense Karin easily detected Hinata's movements. Spinning tightly to her left she brushed away a blow aimed for her side while chambering a kick. Unleashing her foot with full force she felt only air as her invisible adversary dodged. A small back and forth occurred between the kunoichi before the Hyuga finally retreated.

"You'll have to do better than that Hinata." Karin mocked as she stared where she knew the girl to be. "You can fool my sense of sight all you want but unless you stop my chakra sensory it doesn't matter. I'll always know where to find you and the attach your launching. I can even gages the intent based on the feeling of your power input."

"Then you should have known I had I desire to actually hit you." An invisible sounding giggling was heard mock echoing from every corner of the arena.

Karin was about to launch her own attack when she felt her body go stiff. Believing it was a Paralysis Genjutsu she tried to get her chakra under control. However, all the Genjutsu faded away to reveal a large whitish gold snake had wrapped the girl tight. The reptile looked the trapped redhead in the eyes and hissed out. "Hello."

"What!? When!?" The Uzumaki demanded.

"The moment I unleashed my Genjutsu Art: Murderous Blind." (3) The lavender eyed girl explained smiling. "You were so busy feeling out for my chakra the presence of an inhuman reptile never registered. It wasn't easy making you unable to hear his arrival though. Luckily Kurenai has taught me a few new tricks this month."

"Alssso dear, I'm a massster mysssself when it comesss to Genjutsu." The snake explained with an awkward shrug. "Using my ssssspecial techniquessss and moving sssslowly, I wasss able to ssssneak up unnoticed."

"Yeah, that was awesome Hina-hime!" Naruto exclaimed as he glomped hugged the Hyuga.

The girl happily returned the hug as everyone gathered round. Neji moved up to Karin as the whitish gold snake let her go. "That was an impressive showing Uzumaki-san. Your skills are truly impressive and do much to honor the legacy of your clan."

Naruto frowned at the pare as his girlfriend's summoning snake approached. "Ssso, you are the young man Lady Hinata hasss sssspoken ssso highly about."

The blonde turned to the snake distracted as the bluenette quickly introduced. "Oh, Naru-kun, this is Lord Eizo Of The Numerous Sage Poisons. Eizo, this is the blonde knucklehead who I've completely fallen for, Naruto Uzumaki; last of the direct Uzumaki Royals and welder of the legendary Yumegan."

"High." The blonde beamed.

"Nice to meet you Lord Uzumaki." The snake hissed out respectfully. "Perhaps, one day, you will honor me in testing the power of the Serpent Sage Genjutsu against the legendary Yumegan?"

"I don't see why not." The blue eyed Genin answered happily. "It'll have to be after the Chunin Exams though."

Hiashi walked up with his usual stone faced expression. "Congratulations daughter, I'm glad to see you have improved admirably. That was also an impressive showing yourself Uzumaki Karin. You do your own ancestors proud.

"Thank you sir." The girl bowed politely.

"Oh, Hinata, want to meet one of my summons; we'll one you haven't met already?" An exuberant Naruto asked.

Not waiting for an answer the blond bit his thumb and ran through hand signs. One puff of smoke later and the flamboyant Gamariki appeared. The light green toad adjusted his large violet bow and happily asked. "Oh Naru-chan, what you summon me for?"

Turning to look at the assembled gathering the light green toad's rich purple eyes landed on an annoyed looking white snake. Face flashing in anger he dropped his feminine demeanor and yelled out. "YOU!"

"Well, if it isn't everyone'sss favorite girly toad plushy."

Hinata looked between the seething amphibian and annoyed snake asking nervously. "Um, I'm guessing you two know each other?"

"No each other!" The toad cried in his deep voice, arms crossed upset. "This little white turd stole my Sage Forged Shield; things indestructible and irreplaceable!"

"You were the fool that bet your prized possssessssion ." Eizo mocked rolling his eyes. "It'ssss not my fault you failed to ssssspecify the rules of the bet better."

"We agreed no Genjutsu; no Genjutsu damn it!" The toad stormed angrily.

"One trick pony just doesssssn't like the fact I can also use Ninjutsssu." The serpent dismissed with a shrug.

Looking to the nervous Hyuga the feminine dressed toad demanded. "You Naruto's girlfriend; Hyuga Hinata?"

Receiving a nod of confirmation as the girl was still to nervous to speak the toad fired again. "You summon this thieving asshole!"

"Y-y-yes sir, he-he-he's my personal s-s-summons."

Gamariki looked from Naruto to Hinata wondering how his summoner could love someone that would work with snakes. It dawned on the amphibian the girl must not have been corrupted yet and quickly made a decision. Blowing a kiss that shot through the air the lipstick shaped lips landed square on the bluenette's right arm. The girl pulled up her sleeve to reveal a toad tattoo in a seal kanji similar to the snake on her left.

Eizo's cocky demeanor faded quickly to be replaced by pure anger. "You damed walking plate of pre-fried frog legs! What do you think your doing! She's my personal summoner!"

"And now she's mine as well." The light green toad smiled triumphantly as he returning to his flamboyant nature. Standing on his hind legs he wrapped an arm around Hinata's elbow while saying. "Come on sweet little Hina-kun, we need to teach you proper summoning strategy before this crawling wallet corrupts your innocent nature further."

As the two began walking off, the indigo haired girl somewhat reluctantly, Eizo turned to follow. "Hey, get back here you walking snack! That's my partner and I don't want you giving her warts."

Naruto rubbed the back of his head sheepishly looking up at Hiashi. "Hehehe, sorry."

The man just gave the boy an unreadable look. Fearing for his personal safety the blonde hurriedly volunteered. "I'll just follow and make sure everything's ok."

Karin watched her idiotic cousin run away and turned to the Hyuga with a polite bow. "Thank you for the lovely meal Lord Hiashi."

Turning to Neji she asked. "Care to join me? We can watch a toad and snake fight over Hinata while Naruto referees."

"Very well." The brunette agreed wrapping the Uzumaki's arm in his own. The young kids walked off leaving Hiashi standing alone with his father Kizaki.

The Hyuga Elder turned to his son. "Your daughter needs to better uphold the traditions of this clan. Not just in her abilities but also her chosen husband. Do you not want to assure your future grandchildren posses the Byakugan?"

"Truthfully father it's not my main priority." The man explained dismissively. "I'm just hoping I don't meet those future grandchildren you speak of any time soon."

"That particular concern is your pore decision in a wife finally shining through." The elderly man admonished scornfully. "I told you Hitomi was far to improper in her behavior. I even warned her personality could appear in future daughters."

The clan head refused to have the age old argument that his stubborn old dad refused to shut up about. Instead he said the one thing the old prude couldn't strike back at. "The characteristics showing up in Hinata and, possible one day, Hanabi do concern me as their father, but I was having to much fun at the time to worry about it; I believe you found me having that 'fun' once in the garden."

The old Hyuga scoffed and turned away embarrassed. "The fact I have such an inappropriate recollection of my daughter-in-law proves my point."

Hiashi lost himself in memory for a moment before stating. "Neji and Karin seem to be compatible. The council should be happy about that at least. Though I am curious how far we want to go with this. That young girl isn't just some Uzumaki Kunoichi but a royal member. If they were to marry, Neji might just take their clan name and all future descendants, regardless of Byakugan or not, won't have to answer to the Hyuga."

"That possibility exists more so with your Hinata than Neji at the moment." Kizaki reminded the man blandly. "Besides, that doesn't matter as much as having strong connection to the future Uzumaki Clan. Over time the Byakugan will fade from the Uzumaki linage and return in full to the Hyuga's possession."

Hiashi sad nothing as his thoughts returned to the past to judge correlations between the present and now. His heart sank the more and more he thought of Hitomi's habitual nature appearing in his daughters. 'Note to self, look in to chastity seals."

…. Haruno Resistance ….

An exhausted Sakura made her way through the front door of her home. After going over hours of strategy with Kurenai Sensei she was feeling very drained. Hoping to eat a quick dinner than take a long relaxing soak, the pinkette made for the dinning room. Unfortunately her plans were destroyed by the presence of the Matsuno Clan. Lady Chou was setting across from Mebuki and Kizaki dressed in a whitish purple kimono of fine silk; her ever present ebony hair bob pristine as always. The pompous Minori sat next to his equally pompous father Bunko. Both men were dressed in deep rich red kimonos. The younger still with his Sasuke-style looks and hair while the older was bald save for a goatee; Bunko was getting plump in his old age.

"Oh Sakura, I wasn't expecting you home so soon." Mebuki jumped up excitedly. The young Kunoichi could easily see through the lie. Her mom was dressed in extremely fine light blue silk and nervously ringing her hands. Kizashi was stoned faced in a thick brown kimono top shirt and matching pants; her refused to acknowledge his daughter.

"High mom, high dad, don't mind me I'll just grab a snack and go take a bath."

"Oh nonsense dear, set down and have dinner with us. The Matsuno Clan can't visit very often and they'd love to talk I'm sure."

Unable to think of an excuse Sakura was forced to set between her parents. Plating some dumplings, salted grilled mackerel, and fried rice, the girl said a quick hello before eating. Everyone pretty much ignored her as they began gossiping about other Civilian Clans. Finally feeling her belly full of the delicious food the young pinkette sat back satisfied and waited for the nightmare to end.

"So Sakura-san, how are your studies coming along. I heard you've managed to make it to the Chunin Exam Finals." Minori managed to ask when conversation lulled.

The pinkette was taken back by the question but quickly confirmed. "Yep, I'm fighting my teammates Uzumaki Naruto in the first round. Odds are stacked in his favor but I have a few surprises."

"That's wonderful dear." Bunko acknowledged with a fake smile. "By chance do you know any other combatants?"

Though curious by the interest being shown the girl explained. "Well there's Nara Shikamaru, Uchiha Sasuke, Aburame Shino from my original academy class. Then there's three Genin from Hidden Sand, Temari, Kankuro, and Gaara, that seem dangerous as hell. Lastly a Stone Genin named Satow Toshio that uses lightning gauntlets."

"What was the line up again dear; please refresh my memory." The plump man asked overly polite.

Sakura's green eyes narrowed suspiciously but she pressed on. "Me vs. Naruto, Sasuke vs. Gaara, Shino vs. Kankuro, Temari vs. Shikamaru; Toshio fights the winner between me and Naruto because will have the greatest rest time. Then the second rounds begin in a basic tournament style ladder system."

"Winner of the first round fights the winner of the second round." The bald man asked stroking his beard thoughtfully. "You could end up fighting the Uchiha Prodigy or this Gaara fellow; or your teammate Uzumaki Naruto."

"Or the Stone Genin." Sakura clarified unsure. Noticing everyone at the table expressing thoughtful looks she asked. "Am I missing something."

"Oh no dear, we're all just wondering about the strength of the Leaf Genin in the exam." Mebuki explained with a nervous laugh. "In a way it's advertisement for the Leaf Village. All our businesses have a vested interest in how well the village preforms."

Looking around the table the pinkette knew her mom was lying. It took only a moment for the young Kunoichi to piece together what they weren't saying; the greedy bastards were fishing for inside scoops to pad whatever bets they placed. 'Oh well, Civilian Lords and Ladies betting was big business for the hidden villages; even if they placing money on a child's future."

"So Sakura-chan, how do you feel regarding your chances to win your fight; or make Chunin?" Minori asked faking an interest.

"Good." Was the Kunoichi's honest reply. "Naruto's going to be tough as hell but I'm hoping to catch him off guard. If I can keep him from taking me to seriously, before he realizes he should, I have a chance."

The kitchen door opened and a server walked out with a pot of tea. Sakura had been so startled she pulled a kunai. Looking at the startled elderly slim man in a chief hat and apron she asked. "Who's this?"

"Put that away Sakura." Mebuki harshly demanded. "This is an employee of the Matsuno Clan; Chef Arata."

The Kunoichi quickly pocketed the kunai and apologized. "Sorry sir, I wasn't really paying attention and didn't sense your presence."

"That's aright dear." The man bowed. Setting down a pot of tea and several cups he left with no further word.

Everyone began making themselves a drink before setting back to relax. Sakura took a sip of her's and marveled at the taste. No doubt it was one of the finest you could get. Looking up at the arrogant child of Bunko and Chou the pinkette asked curiously. "Minori, how has your apprenticeship gone at the capital; the Banker's Guild?"

"Splendidly, as I predicted it didn't take long to reach Senpai." The boy explained slightly throwing his chest out. "I've been placed in charge of the younger students and I'm do to begin a direct apprenticeship with the Daimyo's personal accountant soon."

"Oh, that's wonderful Minori-san." Mebuki smiled. "You do your parents and ancestors proud."

"Thank you Lady Haruno." The boy stated with a polite bow of his head.

Chou smiled smugly at the praise her son received and couldn't resist asking. "Well little Sakura, I know your in the finals but what else has been going on in your chosen career? Save any more puppies lately?"

The pinkette shrugged and explained. "My mission to Bears went off the rails. Ended up saving the whole country from a hostile take over and possibly everted war with Lightning. Not sure if it would have gotten that far but had we failed but it was a possibility. Had to use my medical training to save a former classmate Hibachi Adachi after he was impaled; he almost didn't make it."

"Oh, well dear, that's most impressive indeed." The Matsuno Matriarch stated stunned. She wasn't the only one as neither her husband or son did any better.

Kizashi cleared his throat to gain everyone's attention. "Sakura why don't you go take a bath. I know your tired from training; plus you need your rest to prepare for the exams."

"Ok dad." The girl agreed as she stood up. Minori and his dad stood to bow her out as the Haruno Clan Head stood to follow. Sakura gave her dad an unusual look, waiting until they were out of earshot to ask. "Something wrong?"

"Kind of." The man stated as he ran a hand through his darker shad of pink hair. "I have some troubling news, your mom and Lady Chou have been discussing matrimony between you and Minori; Lord Bunko isn't exactly saying no either."

"Oh hell no." The Kunoichi hissed outraged. "That fool has got be be the most…… I can't think of a name I can say in front of you."

"I'll help dear; asshole." The father surmised deadpanned.

"Yes, that." Sakura agreed as she crossed her arms fuming. Green eyes darting back the way she came the girl thought of going and yelling at her mom; proper adequate amongst guessed be damned.

"Baby, we aren't done just yet." Kizaki smiled vindictively. "That little shit keeps talking about the girls in the capital practically throwing themselves at his feet. He says they're mostly from lower families though looking for a leg up in society. His main interest in you seems to be business related. I also think he's looking at the age difference believing you to more easily controlled."

"How does that help me get out of marrying him?" Sakura asked upset. "I'm about to go with Anko Sensei's most advisable plan; 'find somewhere to hide a body'."

"Calm down and lessen." The irritated father stressed. "That fool is a misogynistic asshole if ever there was one. He won't want to marry a wife that could literally hand him his intestines for dinner."

"I agree with what you're saying dad, but what do you want me to do; kick his ass?"

"No." The man smiled vindictively. "Me, your mother, and the Mizuno Clan will be watching the finals. So, whenever you fight make sure you give one hell of a show. Little Minori's half hearted dreams of walking you down the isle will turn into nightmares."

Sakura smiled up happily at her father before giving him a high-five. The girl skipped away happily heading for her long awaited soaking. Kizaki returned to the dinning room to entertain his guest further. With the young girl gone they opened a bottle of sake.

….. Naruto's Apartment …..

Karin glanced around the small housing space a little put out. While they had trained during the month her cousin explained about his living quarters but she hoped he was embellishing the small size a bit. The redhead was not looking forward to sharing these close quarters with a boy her age. However, she had promised to stay until after the exams were concluded so was stuck.

Hearing the bathroom door open she saw her cousin walk out. Dressed in grey pajamas and a black night cap the boy had just finished a shower. She herself had already bathed and was wearing a pink fluffy bathrobe. Naruto Looked around uncertain before stating. "I'm not used to having people over. Do you want some tea or something? I know I have some bags and a kettle somewhere."

"Yeah, if you have any." The redhead agreed. "Don't worry so much if your out though."

The young blonde boy became a whirlwind as he began digging through his cabinets. "Where is it, where is it, I'm sure I saw it a month ago."

Karin was about to tell him to forget it when a knock came from the front door. Opening the threshold she saw an elderly faded redheaded woman. "Hello, can I help you?"

"Lady Mayako!" Naruto exclaimed running up to wrap the old woman in a hug. "What are you doing here?"

The lady stepped back and smiled down at the exuberant boy. "Your Hokage wrote me about your possible Chunin promotion and the fact a new Uzumaki had been discovered."

"Oh yeah, that would be Karin." The child explained as he pointed to his cousin. "She's a royal like me actually."

The young girl stepped forward and introduced herself. "Uzumaki Karin ma'am; you are?"

"Lady Mayako Uzumaki of The Land Of Bears." The faded redhead stated as she walked in.

Setting down at the kitchen table she smiled at the children. Looking around with a frown she pulled a scroll from her pocket and unsealed a pre-made pot of tea, cream, sugar, and rice cakes. "Go ahead children, dig in."

Both kids fixed cups and grabbed cakes. Naruto didn't hesitate as he took a bite out of his but Karin remained a little cautious; something Mayako didn't miss. "I was hoping to see you both before now, but I was informed you were training in a secret location. So for the last two weeks I was helping Sakura."

"Really, that's great!" Naruto exclaimed excitedly spraying rice cake across the table. "Has she gotten better, not that she wasn't already awesome but …. oh never mind."

"Don't worry Naruto, I know you mean well and just want her to give a good showing for Chunin." Mayako smiled happily. "I would suggest you don't take her lightly though; or she'll hurt you."

Looking at Karin the elderly woman asked. "How has Hidden Leaf treated you so far? The Hokage explained about Hidden Grass and your mother. I was sorry to hear about what happened."

"Thank you Lady Mayako." The young girl smiled sadly. "So far all I've done is train but Hidden Leaf has proven far better than Grass already."

Seeing the downed looks as the conversation began lulling Naruto quickly exclaimed. "Hey Mayako, watch this!"

Producing a Shadow Kunai the boy gently blew on it to coat the blade with wind. Soon a solid looking slab of transparent air was held in the boy's hand. "Neat, huh?"

"Naruto, jutsu aren't toys to be played with." The elderly woman reprimanded. "However, yes, it neat."

Downing his tea the blonde asked mischievously. "So, what neat things did you teach Sakura?"

"Oh no." Mayako cackled with a grin. "Your just going to have to wait for the tournament. I'll just say she's overcome all mental blocks and has regain full Uzumaki Chakra Density."

Karin became thoughtful as she asked. "I've always wondered about that. My mom explained it a little, and I've had my density since I can remember, but I never understood the significance. Does a denser chakra mean it takes less to preform jutsu or something?"

"No, chakra intensity or density have nothing to do with the amount needed to perform a jutsu." Mayako explained thoughtfully. "I know Lord Danzo taught you both Wind Release and so therefore taught you, Naruto, that sword technique. Though Danzo is a natural wind user like the two of you he doesn't have the natural density to make a wind blade that solid. I'm also guessing the two of you can already do things he can't with his own technique. Our special clan density helps with more than elemental jutsu but that's the surface. Far as elements are concerned, wind, earth, and water work best with dense chakra while lightning and fire work best with intense chakra."

"I have a second affinity to Lightning Release." Naruto explained with a curious look. "If lightning was my first and not wind, does that mean I would never be equal strong as someone that had an intense chakra nature?"

"Yes and no." The elder stated while finishing her tea. "Your defense would be greater than someone with intense chakra, but his attacks would be more destructive. It really depends on the individual's skill. Being born with a special advantage can help, but in some cases harm. People become complacent and are easily surpassed by those they believe inferior."

The blonde grew silent as he thought over his elder's words. Karin grabbed another rice cake and asked to change the subject. "Where are you staying Lady Mayako?"

"One of the more elegant hotels reserved for special visitors." The old woman scoffed. "I hate the stupid place."

Giving the girl a thoughtful look she asked. "Where are you staying dear? Surely not in this cramped little apartment with Naruto."

"I'm going to find my own place after the exam." The redhead explained. Naruto gave a frown while grumbling low. "It's not that little."

Mayako ignored the boy and explained. "I believe the apartments next to this one are both empty. Why don't you just move into one of them?"

"Yeah, I didn't think of that!" Naruto exclaimed happily. "No one likes living next to me so they're always empty."

"Why don't people want to live next to you Naruto?" The redhead asked curiously.

"Oh, probably because he's obnoxious." Mayako hurriedly joked.

Karin looked back and forth between her elder and cousin to see the nervousness in the woman's eyes and anger in the boy's. Figuring what was being unsaid she stated. "I know about the the e Nine Tailed Fox. Naruto told me when we were training."

"Oh, that's a relief." Mayako sighed sadly. "I'm afraid it's still a Leaf Village secret so I was trying to protect it."

Glancing at the clock the elderly woman stood up stretching. "I think I'll head back to my hotel. By now my Samurai Guard has realized I've given them the slip. I'm sure they're going into full blown panic mode."

Saying goodbye to her kin Mayako left the tea kettle and plates for Karin; stating they were a house warming gift for her new apartment. Outside she jumped to the roof and found the hidden watcher that stood guard there. Staring at a seemingly empty spot she barked. "You could have come inside and had tea you know."

The air shimmered as a black clocked Shinobi appeared wearing a solid white mask with no features. Mayako's eyes grew cold seeing the insignia of Danzo's private shadow army. "I figured as much but I hoped to be proven wrong. You've traded one puppet master for another; foolish girl."

The Shinobi reached up and removed her mask and hood. The pale face and Uzumaki red hair of Shomei was easily distinguishable in the moon light. "It's lovely to see you Lady Mayako."

"Wish I could say the same." Came the old woman cold response.

Shomei could only sigh sadly as she tried to explain her actions. "It was the only way to protect Karin. There is a darkness in her that Danzo wishes to exploit. I'm trying to give her as normal a life as possible here; she deserves that much."

Seeing the stone face of Mayako weaken a little the ROOT Kunoichi pressed on. "Did Lord Hokage explain about her teammates, how she murdered them in cold blood? In many ways the act was justified by Shinobi standards; if not entirely Civilian. I was worried the truth would get out and jeopardize her citizenship to The Land Of Fire."

"So, to save Karin you made a deal with the proverbial devil." Lady Mayako scoffed. "Tell me child, Danzo controls his followers with Curse Seals; how much power does he have over you?"

"Not as much as he would like nor as much as he thinks." The Uzumaki explained as she placed her mask and good back on. "Truthfully I'm spying for the Hokage while working for ROOT. The future of our clan is all that matters to me anymore."

With that Shomei crouched down and disappeared in the haze of her camouflage jutsu. Mayako leaped away at the dismissive undertone wondering about that very future the girl now defended. 'Three Uzumaki now call Hidden Leaf home, and it's the damed Jinchuriki that seems to be the most stable. How the hell did that happen.'

Author's Note:

Noticed I was spelling Karin with an 'E' (Karen) instead of 'I' (Karin) in chapter 20, think I may have used both spellings actually. Going back to original (I) spelling.

(1)– Changed name from Wind Style: Devouring Vortex to Uzumaki Art: Life Leech Consumption Cyclone; sounded better.

(2)- When Karin devoured the flame bomb the Solid Clone was in the vortex. Any other jutsu of Naruto's( Shadow Clone, Shadow Weapon ) would have also been devoured. The Solid Clone survived and gave the impression it was the real Naruto. Solid Clone is able to withstand Karin's jutsu better because it is a complex creation that requires Fuinjutsu and more solidified chakra; held together by special containment seal if that helps.

(3)- A flock of crows is called a 'murder'. I now Hinata's Wrap Image comes of as basically doves but the name still fits kind of; also sounds better than Genjutsu Art: Birdy Flock Blind or Bird Blind.

(Also)- Don't remember if I wrote this or not but Shomei's outfit is the ROOT uniform now.

(Also) - When Eizo gets angry or serious he drops the hiss.