A couple of years ago

Hiruzen wanted nothing more than to shout and burn Danzo to the ashes. He'd thought he had time. Time hash things with Fugaku. No, he had long concluded the Clan head no longer had control over the masses of his clan. They had boiled and were just waiting to be spilled over. Fugaku he held the lid for as long as he could. Yet, Hiruzen had thought he could change things.

Maybe naïve but he didn't like what has happened.

To be awakened in the night by Anbu. A Uchiha massacre. The entire damn clan dead. Piles of bodies lay in the streets. A bloodbath that should only occur in the night of the war. Not in such times. Hasn't the village even seen enough of horrors already? Tomorrow, the famous Itachi would become a villain. And maybe, he was an Uchiha Tobirama would have liked.

Hiruzen glanced through the corner of his eyes. Staring at the young man before him. He held his hands on his back. Wondering why such a responsibility had to be given to someone so promising.

"Danzo, gave you the order, didn't he?" Hiruzen asked through gritted teeth.

"It was not going to end. My father told me that things had come to a point where he could no longer call anything off."

"I knew that." The Third replied sternly. "There could have been a different way to this."

Who was he kidding? There was no other way. And that was probably why he was not going to have Danzo hanged. But there would be punishment to be dished out. Yes, Danzo would be stripped of his position from the village Council. An elder no more. Even Homura and Koharu would be removed from the village Council. He would have the Jonin commander and Anbu advise him on villager matters.

"I have one request, Sandaime-sama."

"I heard there is one survivor."

"I couldn't kill him. Please, take care of him. Please protect him from Danzo."

"That I will do." Hiruzen turned around, for the first time facing Itachi. "But I also have a request. Naruto Uzumaki. I'm afraid things are not going to get better for him. At this rate, getting him into the academy will only make things worse. Other parents have already told their children to stay away from him. I've run through the teachers, and it appears all of them won't do him any favours. I don't want him to hate Konoha. I want him to grow normally. He is still too young. If he can at least have a normal childhood, then it will be the best I can do.

"You are to go with him. Take care of him. I will delay the search for you until you have gone to safety. Hunter Nin will not look for you until after a week from today."


Naruto blinked, being woken up from his night sleep by an intruder. He would have flinched and then tried to flee but he was too sleepy. He rubbed his eyes. The blurry image of the Sandaime Hokage came to view. Yet he did not smile.

"Jiji?" He said in a sleepy tone.

The Third Hokage smiled. "There isn't much time, Naruto. But I want you to listen to me very carefully."

Naruto nodded.

"Neko-chan is going take you out of the village. You will be with someone who will care for you. I want to apologize for having not being able to protect you. But I want you to have a good childhood. You will learn about your parents while away. You will know why the villagers hate you so much…" the Third put a firm hand on the child. "I'm truly sorry, Naruto. I had wished for a better life for you. But it is not possible under present circumstances."

"What is going to happen?"

"I hope only good things that will make your childhood happier. And hopefully, when you return to this village, you'll be a shinobi we will all be proud of…"


Itachi stared at the child in front of him. Naruto was curled up, presses against the trunk of a tree, face in between his knees. There hadn't been much words said since they arrived at this hideout. But Itachi could understand. Strangers have not been good to Naruto. If it wasn't the case of being tricked into the Forest of Death, it was being bullied by other children and made fun of. A strange world. Yet a familiar consequence for all Jinchuriki.

His mission was a simple one. Or at least Itachi hoped it would be. Naruto had a problem of trusting people. Kindness was alien if it wasn't coming from the Sandaime Hokage. Everyone else, even the kids his age who couldn't define right or wrong have all been wrong. For a fragile young child, anything could have happened. Even a corrupted Danzo could have whispered things that could have painted Naruto's mind with intentions that would have far reaching consequences for the Leaf.

It was now his mission to ensure that this person who could become a great power for Konoha was nurtured properly. Maybe he could do better and teach Naruto the things that he could have taught Sasuke. It wasn't a replacement but a duty he had to uphold for the Leaf.

He settled in front of the blond. Those blue eyes lifted to meet his. It was an unfamiliar expression. The Naruto he knew had always wielded a foxy grin. But to say it was his true expression would be wishful thinking. There had been nothing for him to smile about – nothing to be happy about. Just internal misery while not even knowing what was inside of him.

It was pitiful but just as he was miserable. After all, he had to kill his parents. The mother who had loved him. The father who'd cared for him. Worse, they had not fought but simply took their deaths. An even greater pain was that his younger brother had to shoulder it alone.

For a second, his mask nearly slipped.

"Naruto."

The boy tilted his head slightly. An acknowledgment to his voice. But no word came out of his mouth.

"This is different from how you were usually in the streets. But I suppose that is how you always looked when you were alone."

Did he think it was always like that? Of course not. He bad observed the blond a couple of times when he was with Kakashi. His former captain had taken a keen interest in watching over the boy when he wasn't on duty just to ensure nothing happened. Mental abuses couldn't be stopped but physical abuse could be.

"My name is Itachi Uchiha."

Naruto flinched slightly. It didn't surprise Itachi. After all, the Kyubi rampage was faulted on his clan. They did nothing. But were blamed. Some members of his clan would naturally look at the blond with contempt even though they were in similar situations.

"The Sandaime Hokage entrusted you to me; To care for you and to train you to become a better shinobi, away from the unfortunate situation in Konoha."

And of course ensuring that the blond was loyal. At the rate things were going, it wouldn't have been a surprise if he had fled. He was still young. The notion of loyalty to ones village was foreign. All he knew was that people from his village hated him for no reason.

"You're supposed to tell me your name."

After a couple of seconds, a questioning look settled. Maybe that he had already called Naruto by his name.

"Naruto."

Itachi smiled – a tiny smile despite the burden he carried; the guilt that threatened to bury him even as he walked. He smiled. For this child that the Sandaime had thrown into his care out of the blue.

He held out his right hand. Naruto stared at it for a minute. "It is nice to finally meet you in person, Naruto. I've seen much of you in Konoha but this is the first time we speak."

Naruto did not reply with words but just nodded. After a minute, he took Itachi's hand and shook it.

"Rest for now. We are going to move out later on."

Konoha would be on their tail. He couldn't exactly tell Naruto that much. Either way, staying within the Land of Fire would be risky. No doubt, Danzo would be hounding all corners looking for them. But to stay hidden, they had to be far away from the Land of Fire.

"Where are we going?"

This soft voice, almost a whisper jolted Itachi out of his thoughts. Maybe the child was worried he was going to be led into a slaughter house. Bad things have happened before by allowing others to fool him. He was tricked more often than anyone smiled toward him.

"You do not have to be afraid. The Sandaime trusted me with you. I won't harm you."


A boat – a first trip sailing above the waters. An endless lake that would no doubt swallow him whole if he fell within. Naruto had nervously glanced to the sides when the water splashed onto the boat. For hours, he had been in this journey. Silence. He didn't complain. There was a lot to think about. Konoha. The not so friends he wanted to make. Going to the academy.

But for the first time in his existence, Naruto felt free. There was no one staring at him with hatred. There was no one spitting on the ground as he walked. He was alive. A part of him felt content, even when there was no one to talk.

He glanced at the Uchiha. Those stoic people. They were not worse than the Hyuga who ignored him like a plague. In fact, those people were the worst.

Neko had said he could trust this person. And so had the old man. If it was someone the old man trusted, then there were no reasons to worry. Yet, the heart felt wary. Maybe it was only natural when with a stranger.

When the splashes became stronger, the boat swayed dangerously. Naruto felt a little afraid that they would sink. But Itachi remained expressionless. There were twisting waters. Formations he'd never seen before. Death was certain if they got swallowed. He wanted to ask but bit his tongue.

"We are closer."

He tilted his head slightly in question.

"To the village Hidden In Whirlpools."

Ah, hence what he was seeing. A bigger ship and they wouldn't have had the safety they had. But the small thing could be easily pulled. Naruto would take a deep breath in relief once they returned to land he loved dearly.

It didn't take long. When they did, he jumped out. Threw himself into the ground and hugged it. How he missed the soil. The solid ground in which he could walk.

"Come on."

Naruto glanced at the Uchiha, who was now holding a map. Obviously, he didn't know where they were going and had never been here before. It was definitely remote. Far away from the glares of Konoha. They couldn't reach him here. He could have a good night sleep. He smiled, buried his face into the dust before getting up. He didn't even dust himself up as he rushed toward the Uchiha.

"How long?" Naruto asked Itachi.

"A couple of years."

Naruto frowned. "I won't have to see the old man for that long?" that was sad. The old man loved him. He was the only person who was kind to him, the Icharaku excluded.

"Yes."

Naruto had expected a different response but the Uchiha just crushed any hopes of a visit from the old man. Maybe with a bowl of steaming Ramen. That would make his day.

After walking for about an hour, they finally came to what appeared to be a village. But it was just ruins. There was no sign of people. When the old man had said he would he somewhere he could have a happy childhood, he'd expected to be at a place with people. Somewhere he could make friends and play. But maybe even in another place, the reaction to his presence would be the same. After all, he didn't know if he was just cursed or there was some reason. But it had something to do with the Kyubi. He was the Kyubi brat after all.

He smiled sadly and looked up into the clear sky.

Maybe this would not be so bad after all.

"As I already told you, this is going to be our home for the next couple of years. You will realize soon enough why I chose this land." Itachi said. "For now, stay here. I'm going to check the parameter."

In a puff of smoke, five more Itachi appeared.

"Cool jutsu." Naruto commented, amazed.

"You will learn it. It is a convenient jutsu. Since you will miss the academy, you'll have to study and train here."

"Do I have to study?" He had no problems with training. After all, he could become a shinobi. Wield the headband.

The thought made him curious. Itachi's headband was scratched. "Why is your headband scratched?"

"I'll explain later."

"Well, that is better than you'll understand some day…" Naruto replied bitterly. The kind of answer the old man always tossed to his answering sheet whenever he dished out questions.


After a week of setting up camp, ensuring that there were indeed no other people in the island, Itachi breathed a sigh of relief. They were safe. Nobody was going to come here to look for them. The only suspect could be Danzo. But given how the man thought of him, it was likely he had praised the Sandaime's decision. There was no one better to teach Naruto loyalty to Konoha than him. After all, in the eyes of that man, he had even been willing to kill his clan members for the village. He was a shinobi Danzo could familiarize with.

He glanced toward the blond. These past days, he woke up, walked about the ruins. Sometimes toward the river just away from them to do some fishing. Too young to hunt some wild animals. But he would soon learn. Itachi would also have to make a visit back to the Fire Nation. He had bought enough weapons and clothes. But if they were going to train, they needed more.

That meant Naruto had to stay behind. He had to be able to look after himself while he was gone. If he could fish, then he wouldn't starve.

"Naruto," he called out. When the blond faced him, he spoke again. "Come here."

There were various scrolls the Sandaime entrusted to him. Some secrets he had to tell. The old man told him he would decide when the appropriate time to tell. Itachi debated on the issue and the consequence thereof. He needed to make one thing at a time.

"Have you become comfortable around here?"

"There are no people."

A straight response like that made Itachi smile – a little. "I'm going to start training you. However, I want you to understand a couple of things before we get that. It is also important that you also know why I chose this place."

Naruto nodded.

"This is the ancestral home of the Uzumaki clan. It was destroyed years ago during an invasion. Your mother was born in this village. She was taken up to Konoha to become the Jinchuriki of the Kyubi. Unfortunately, she died after giving birth to you during that night."

The lights flicked on.

"I had a mother…" he whispered.

For so many years running through the streets of Konoha hopelessly, watching other kids play with their parents while he had nothing. No knowledge of his parents. Just the Kyubi brat. The demon. The unwanted child who caused nothing but trouble. The child tricked into dangerous situations by other children because he had no parents. He was Uzumaki Naruto. The child with no parents no more.

He had a mother. Someone who gave birth to him. It no longer mattered why the Sandaime refused to tell him this much. He couldn't understand. But it didn't matter at the moment. He was a person like everyone else. Like the kids at the orphanage. At the playing grounds. His mother was just not alive anymore.

"I had a mother. I had a mother!" He shouted with his loudest voice.

Yes, he was human. Not a demon. Not the Kyubi.

Her name didn't matter. Just that she had once been alive. That the Kyubi didn't give birth to him was all that mattered.

Maybe that soft voice in his dreams was her. Maybe it wasn't just bad dreams born out if wishful thinking.

Itachi gave no outward reaction to Naruto's happiness. Maybe when you've been told you're a demon all your life and the person who you trusted the most refused to tell you anything about your parents, such ridiculous thoughts did sneak in. Naruto was but a child after all.

"Settle down." He said sternly. The blond seemed close to jumping up in joy. "You've always wanted to know why you're hated. That is because the Yondaime Hokage did not defeat the Kyubi by killing it. He sacrificed his life to seal the Bijuu inside of you. That is why people hate you. Many lost their loved ones. When they see you, they see the beast that went on a rampage."

His words immediately killed the mood. Instead of focusing on Naruto, Itachi retreated to his thoughts in the silence.

It was ironic that he felt the need to spill beans for Naruto when his brother was going to be living in darkness and lies because he could not say the truth. He was telling Naruto the truth. For his own future and peace of mind but had allowed Sasuke to be tormented by lies and hatred.

What was remarkable about this child was that he didn't seem to have any hatred toward Konoha.

It was good. It just meant he wouldn't spend too much time having to work on the hatred. But rather, focus on making the blond a better shinobi and making him mentally strong to deal with what would happen when he does return to the Leaf.

"But why did he choose me?"

"A question for another day. I have told you of your mother and why you're hated in Konoha. For now, that is enough."


A Month Later

Naruto threw himself to the ground, mindless of the dust. He was tired. Worn-out. Every day, it was physical training. Itachi said he would teach him a jutsu once he was able to learn some basic Taijutsu style. But that was less fun. Naruto wanted to learn a jutsu. Maybe lightning or Fire. As long as it was jutsu – he was willing to learn.

When a shadow popped up above him, he opened just one eye and then shut it again.

"I'm tired."

"I didn't say you should go at it again. Your stamina levels are high for a kid. You already do more than what I had expected."

Naruto grinned at this. Of course, he wanted to do best and be praised. It was still a foreign feeling for him. He wasn't used to having people say good things to him. Sometimes he just blushed, not knowing what to say before whispering 'thanks.'

He sat up, legs folded and stared at Itachi. He was living with a Beast inside of him. A hateful Bijuu that had threatened to crush him. Itachi had helped him meet the Bijuu. Sometimes, he held his stomach, just wondering how such a huge thing could be inside of him. The beauty of Fuinjutsu, if he remembered Itachi's words clearly.

There had been times Naruto thought he saw Itachi sad. No, it was hard for the Uchiha to even smile. In the time they have been together, the Uchiha never laughed. Naruto was familiar with the dark cloud of sadness. After all, he had carried it all the time with him in Konoha.

"Itachi-san… Itachi…" Naruto corrected himself. "Don't you miss your family?"

"I do." Itachi replied after a long minute. "Why do you ask?"

"You look sad sometimes…" Naruto replied with a slight shrug. "I thought maybe you missed them and I was keeping you away from them."

Itachi shook his head. He was surprised that the blond could tell this much. Then again, having been lonely in Konoha with everyone looking like an enemy, perception was important.

Reality was that Itachi did have a lot to deal with. The memories of his massacre were still fresh. The look on Sasuke's face when he saw everything. He was dealing with the pain. But each day was a reminder of his actions. Yet, as long as Konoha remained standing, he was happy. Even when those who once sang merry songs to his name now cursed him, he was happy he has done his mission to protect Konoha.

"My parents are dead. But I have a younger brother back in Konoha. He is your age. I hope you when you return to Konoha, you'll be friends with him."

"Sure!" Naruto exclaimed before settling. "Is he going to be like you?"

"That is something you'll find out." Itachi replied. "But don't worry. You're not keeping me away from my family. You asked me why headband is scratched… it is because I have become a Rogue shinobi. I cannot return to Konoha."

"Why?"

"One day."

"You always say that."

"But I always tell, don't I?"

"Yes…" Naruto folded his hands across his chest. "When are we going to learn jutsu?"

"Have you finished reading what I told you to read?"

"No."

"Then we wont start." Itachi said firmly. "You have to understand the basics of jutsu. When you execute it, you will learn to fully grasp its structure and learn its weakness. As a shinobi, it is always important to understand how jutsu works in order to be able to counter it." He paused. "It is going to be a little difficult for you."

"Why?"

"Executing Jutsu. You have a lot of chakra. Without good chakra control, learning complex jutsu isn't going to be easy. But we will try it. From tomorrow."


A month later

While floating above the waters, Itachi darted toward Naruto. The blond was in a basic taijutsu stance, shirtless, eyes focused on him. Yet as he flashed in a blur, his right leg swinging swiftly, the blond saw nothing. The kick slammed into his chest, sending him flying away from the water and crashing into the ground on his back. He tried to get up but staggered back to his knees, his breathing labored.

Nobody said training would be this painful. Almost every day, Itachi beat him until he couldn't lift a finger. It was just brutal. He'd complained about it once. But reminded himself he needed to be stronger. To protect himself and those he would learn to love. As Itachi often said, be strong enough to protect Konoha. Although he called himself a rogue shinobi, the man spoke of nothing but love for the Leaf.

Naruto had come to learn, there were two things Itachi loved the most – Konoha and his brother.

"You're improving rapidly." Itachi said as he walked up to Naruto.

He wouldn't compare the blond to Sasuke. They were two different people. Sasuke was fluid. But as expected for someone who would be guided by the Sharingan. Naruto depended on his instincts. Itachi was trying to build into that.

"Yet I cannot even touch you!" Naruto remained on the ground. "Why don't you let me hit you once?"

"You never had training before. We are starting from scratch. It is going to take some time but once you've adjusted maybe you can land a hit," the Uchiha held out his right hand.

Naruto took it.

"Can you walk?"

"I can try." Naruto winced slightly. "You were not exactly being gentle. I wonder if you were as harsh with your little brother," he pouted slightly.

Itachi bent down, motioned for him to get on his back. Naruto just stood motionless for a minute. They spoke about Konoha, jutsu and the life of a shinobi but they were not that close. Naruto had seen older brothers carry their younger brothers after they got hurt at the playgrounds. He had seen it and envied it. He never even dreamt one day, someone would carry him. For a second, he thought of just jumping but held himself.

After a couple of moments, Naruto moved his body with anticipation. He put his hands around the shoulders of the Uchiha. Itachi straightened up. His legs around the Uchiha's waist, Naruto wanted to hold firmly. He buried his face in the Uchiha's back as they started to walk back toward the village.

He had a small sad smile on his lips.

So, this was what it felt like to have someone carry you.


Present time

Jiraiya stared around what could only be called a crime scene. Danzo and the entirely of his Ne agent were dead. Some lay in puddles of dry blood. Someone had sneaked into the village as they slept and caused all these. Or maybe it was many people. But looking at the scene, the way some bodies were cut, it was no doubt a single person who did this. Forget about Danzo for a moment, but someone had done this to the Leaf. It was a chilling message that none of the Anbu noticed this happening until early morning when it was all over.

He came to a halt and frowned deeply. Black flames slowly burning. If he was not mistaken, this was Amaterasu. This was the first time he was seeing the flames. They were indeed real. The blames that couldn't be extinguished by water. He took out a scroll and sealed them away.

It was without question. A Sharingan was involved. And there were only a few people who had those eyes. Just a pair were outside of Konoha.

He turned around, looked at the Third, the Anbu commander and then at Kakashi. The latter had an expressionless look on his face and the Third wore a concerned look. Certainly not for the death of Danzo. Nobody would mourn. Admittedly, Jiraiya was happy they no longer had to deal with the man and he would admit it to anyone who asked. He wasn't going to celebrate it but he wasn't going to be pretend to be shocked about this.

"I guess he died in a way that is fitting for his activities," the Sannin said mildly.

"Concerning is that someone did this and then left without being noticed."

"Village security," Jiraiya nodded. A matter of concern. They had to do better. If this could happen to Danzo, it could happen to anyone. "What do you think?" He asked Kakashi.

The Jonin shook his head. "I can't think of anything. I'm sure there are many who would want him dead."

The last time Hiruzen was here was when he was telling Danzo his Ne was being disbanded. There was never good news in his presence in this place. He had known Danzo was still operating but looked the other way. But never did he think he would be called because of a bloodbath.

"If they discovered his activities." Hiruzen sighed. If they were living in another world, Danzo would've been dead already. "Take care of this. None of it must leak. I want a report as soon as possible." He said to the Anbu.

"Hai."

"You don't look pleased that he is dead." Jiraiya said to his Senei. "This is the same man who once ordered Kakashi to try and kill you."

Hiruzen had dismissed that incident. He quite literally didn't do anything against the man. Even with the Uchiha massacre, he did nothing.

But there were more important matters than celebrating Danzo's death. Hiruzen would never celebrate a death. Human life was important. Admittedly, many who have been caught in Danzo's schemes wouldn't agree to his sentiments.

"I believed he was a necessary evil."

"One that plotted against you at every opportunity he got."

Hiruzen would not admit that he kept the man around because he could also do the dirty tasks that he was not willing to do. "Let's go to my office."


Hokage Office

"The presence of Amaterasu simply means the Sharingan was involved. It is the only doujutsu capable of producing those flames as far as I am concerned."

Those were the words Jiraiya said as soon as they arrived at the office. Hiruzen knew it as well. For all his life, he has known the Sharingan to possess that ability. There were only two people who could have done this though. And that was Naruto and Sasuke. The two haven't met as far as he was concerned. But both could have reasons to murder Danzo. The latter especially. But if it was Naruto, it raised questions. More worrying if it was Sasuke. It would mean he knew. And his next target could be the village itself.

"Yes, that is the worrying part," Hiruzen nodded in agreement. "We cannot hope it is neither. That would be naivety at its best. There is no other Uchiha out there or anyone else who has the Sharingan that we know…"

"If it is Sasuke, it would be understandable."

"Either way, we have to do something."

"What do you suggest?"

"We have already sent word for Hunter Nin to be on the lookout for Naruto. Sasuke is still with Orochimaru. We have to track them down," Hiruzen shook his head. "It is my hope that Sasuke does not end up giving his body to Orochimaru."

That disappointing student of his. Hiruzen would be at a loss. He would have failed not only Itachi, but Minato as well.

"We are overlooking something." Kakashi injected. "If Itachi is dead, then does Sasuke know about it?"

"Good question. But we cannot answer it. Only those two can answer it. But we must be careful." The Third said in a hardened tone. "I'll mobilise a team. Jiraiya will gather the information and Kakashi will lead the team. But if it is possible, you must take care of Orochimaru, Jiraiya."

The Sannin couldn't afford to go away for too long for too far away because of the minor scuffles with Sunagakure.

"The good thing is that we don't have to deal with Danzo." Jiraiya was happy about this part. "At any event, there still lies the bigger problem of what this will mean to Konoha. I am happy that Danzo is dead, but do we just let this slide? There is a security issue that we cannot ignore."

"Especially with what is happening." Kakashi added his voice.

"Are we of the agreement that is one of the two?" Hiruzen asked.

"Yes."

"Then we have to take measures possible to protect Konoha. Today it is Danzo… who is next tomorrow?"


that night

Hiruzen nearly got a fright when he was awakened in the middle of the night. But what made him become on alert was the person standing by the corner, arms holding. There was darkness, but he remembered those eyes of Itachi. The presence wasn't like that of Naruto. Then again, the blond had just been six when he left Konoha. He was still a teenager but by all accounts an adult. In this situation, Hiruzen wished he could smile. To be able to finally see the blond in person. But there was no reason to smile.

There was the question of how Naruto managed to intrude when Anbu where watching him and how he was able to sleep through it all.

"Naruto," Hiruzen sat up straight from his bed.

It was no longer the child he had sent away with Itachi. The person before him was a shinobi. Someone equal to the challenge that the shinobi world brought. But disturbingly, someone who appeared to have no loyalty toward the Hidden Leaf.

"Sandaime-sama."

Hiruzen blinked. Naruto addressed him in a respectful manner. He wasn't expecting that. They had been a little closer before he sent the blond away. But still, given the present circumstances, he didn't expect this. It was one reason to smile.

"It is nice to see you, Naruto. It has been quite a long time. About eleven years to be precise."

"12," Naruto corrected.

"Ah, I see." Hiruzen smiled sadly. It was not the time to ask about health and other superficial questions. There was no time for sentiments. "Anbu?"

"Taking a nap."

"Genjutsu," Hiruzen nodded. "You were the one who attacked Danzo then."

"Yes. I thought to correct a few things. I'm amazed you allowed him to continue living. Then again, it is under your leadership that he was able to give orders to Itachi to kill every member of his clan."

There was no sharpness that slashed across his heart in those words. There was a kind of nonchalance and casualness about them. Hiruzen thought there was steel lacking. For effect. But the message was nonetheless clear. He allowed Danzo to run amok. Even after treason. Even after the Uchiha massacre. It was his spineless leadership that allowed for such events to occur. He could not defend against that. To attempt to justify anything would just be worsening things and maybe Naruto's eyes would turn on him sharply for trying to refute the glaring truth.

"Danzo was working with Orochimaru and is the cause of your problems with Sunagakure. He had Shisui's eye and used it on the Kazekage." Naruto explained with a slight shrug. "But that isn't the reason I came to speak to you."

It didn't surprise Hiruzen. Not even a little. But to think he had Shisui's eyes all this time. Maybe it had been used on him, hence his inability to do anything. No, to simply discharge himself of responsibility and lay the blame of Danzo was simply being incredibly irresponsible. He had to own up to his errors.

He could question that, but the fact that the impasse with Suna could be resolved made him happy.

"But how do we resolve that?"

"Who knows? Danzo's hypnosis was not complete. Maybe you could find a way. Or maybe I am wrong that he used Shisui's eyes. The Kazekage is in a tough situation with his village. An more expressive term is to say he is backed in a corner and most likely think betraying friends in the best option."

For Naruto to know this much, it just meant he hasn't just been hiding but living his life with a keen eye. But for what reason? What was the motive?

"It doesn't explain why he chose this path. Konoha has always been helpful to Suna."

"You are aware that the Wind Lord was sending missions to you instead of Suna."

"Suna charges higher fees." Each village looked for its own interests. He wasn't going to refuse his business. His shinobi needed to eat. "I didn't think I would have such a conversation with you. I thought when you returned, we'd talking about your time away…" he added with a chuckle.

Naruto wasn't going to add on this. He didn't want to think about hypothetical situations.

"You may want to be on guard against your former student. I saw him the other day. And Sasuke. Quite s pitiful child. A little disappointing that he is Itachi's brother," he shook his head, realizing he was talking too much. "But as I said, not the reason I am here."

"Then, why have you come, Naruto-kun?"

"I don't wish for Konoha to be coming after me. I don't want to come back to Konoha. I have another home."

"Which is?"

Naruto shook his head. "Another day."

"Did we do something wrong?"

"You ask me that question? I take offense in that."

Hiruzen nearly slapped himself across the face for asking such a stupid question. Yet, he was curious. What had even happened to Itachi? The events that had occurred were long ago. Naruto had still been a child when it occurred. Was there someone who was influencing him?

"What happened to Itachi? I sent you away with him so that you could grow in a better environment where you were not hated and surrounded by that hatred. That was my only goal. I could not bear to see them treat you with such contempt. I feared what would happen to your mind and happiness. I feared you'd hate us."

Naruto stared at the Sandaime without moving. His stare lasted a couple of seconds.

He really didn't want to think about hypothetical situations. Reality was that he was here. "I came here. This village looked peaceful. But I heard how they spoke of me. How it was a good thing I departed. There were some who even considered I was the reason Itachi went mad," he smiled sadly at the memory.

He has truly seen this as home. He was born here. His parents had died here. But his return was not welcomed. They rejoiced in his absence. He had done right by putting on a mask and interrogating a few villagers. Because he wanted to understand. To reason and experience their view. But it was all nonsensical madness. Evil he could not reconcile. And anyone who dared told him to shoulder it was simply sentencing to live a criminal life.

"I resolved to depart."

"When did you come here?"

"Some years back then. I thought it was best to come back and graduate at the academy. Maybe I could make friends. But reality would not permit it." He shook his head. "We didn't have a lot of time with Itachi. The time was nonetheless good. I learned what it was like to have a brother. But before I knew it, he was lying, bedridden with a sickness that we could not understand. Young and stupid as I was. I searched for medicine, but nothing helped. He died miserably, remarking in his failure to have never had the chance to atone by dying in the hands of his younger brother."

Maybe a mad though did come to him that Naruto could've done something. But judging from his tone, the blond had been quite fond of the Uchiha. Hiruzen felt sorry for Naruto.

"So, that is what happened," he smiled sadly.

"I was mad. When it seemed that life was turning right for me, the rules of the world would not have it. That little bit of world and peace I had formed was ripped away from me and then crushed. I did consider that maybe I was not allowed to be happy. Those thoughts of course and what drive some insane, but I had them." Naruto paused, a long look settled for a couple of seconds. "In any case, that happened. And we are in this situation."

Hiruzen couldn't offer any words of comfort. What made him a little happy was that Naruto wasn't looking at him with contempt.

"You have no intentions of being part of Konoha, huh?"

"No." Naruto shook his head.

"I cannot force you but I would like to try to convince you otherwise. Your father is still the same man who died for this village."

"We are fundamentally different. He died for Konoha, not for me. I have no part in it except being a sacrifice. I will live my life as I see fit. My message to you; stop searching for me. I am not lost."

"Will you at least be open to friendship? I don't want to be your enemy."

Naruto stepped out of the shadow and walked toward the old man. He bowed his head. And then lifted it with a smile.

"I also wanted to thank you for what you did for me. I will not forget it." And like that, he turned away.

"Wait." Hiruzen panicked. Naruto was just going to go. Would they talk to each other again? He had intentionally ignored his question. "Please, Naruto. Come back one day so that we can talk."

Naruto glanced at the old man and then walked back into the shadows before replying. But not to the question.

"Goodbye, Sandaime-sama."


Hiruzen had never felt so overburdened as this day. Not when Naruto had made it clear to him through words and actions that he had no interest in Konoha. Jiraiya had refused believe and accept it. The Third couldn't do much. He too had his own burdens to carry and convictions to reaffirm. Either way, it was now apparent that he was no longer fit to hold this position. He had to give it up for someone. In an ideal world, one of his students would take over. But Jiraiya refused. Orochimaru turned against him. Prioritizing to work on his fear of death while discarding the moral values had had tried to instil. Tsunade was out somewhere, gambling and causing havoc with a large debt following her wherever she decided to go.

There was only one option.

But the Jonin before him had his issues. Kakashi had cared for Naruto. And had watched him whenever possible. In the same manner Minato had done with him. He couldn't do much. But what he did he did. With Naruto gone. Minato gone. Kakashi had no one. He had lost everything. Maybe this would be too much for him. But there was no one in the village who could relieve him of this burden.

He leaned on his chair, feeling its weight burying him while he still breathed. "Naruto came to me last night," he said, taking out his pipe. A quick and small fire jutsu. The pipe lit red.

Kakashi didn't offer much of an emotional response. "So, it was him who killed Danzo."

That meant that the redhead was a capable shinobi. It was good that he could protect himself. It was good. But a little worrying. He'd have preferred it if it was Sasuke. The Uchiha, though his student had displayed some disturbingly dark tendencies. Then again, he was driven purely by hatred.

"Yes."

"And Itachi is dead."

"Yes. Naruto said it was sickness. The worrying part is that he doesn't want anything to do with Konoha. Even when I asked if he could keep connections open, he absolutely refused to respond to it."

"Well, he cannot be blamed for not wanting to do anything with Konoha. We have not been kind to him."

"Yes. But I had hoped… I still do hope that maybe things will change."

Everyone was entitled to hope. Even Kakashi had hopes. But sometimes, being realistic saved you from disappointments. Pain changed people. It changed him. But Naruto found peace outside of Konoha. No sane person would choose to live in a place that made them miserable when there was a choice.

Kakashi was happy the Third didn't try to force things. Maybe the problem was that he was a Jinchuriki. It was troubling. Especially if he suddenly turned against Konoha. The village could lay claim to the Kyubi. And no village would want a power that could be used against it to leave its grasp. But there was no separating it from Naruto without his death.

"Maybe things will change. But if Itachi is dead. What happens when Sasuke finds out?"

"What do you think?"

"He is going to go after Naruto."

"That is a possibility. No, the most likely scenario." Hiruzen nodded in agreement. "We will see what happens. Importantly, I called you here to let you know that I have decided to select you as my successor."

"So soon?" Kakashi asked.

Hiruzen smiled. "I am way too old for this. My views may be getting in the way of the village's progress and it seems no matter what, I make the same mistake. You have time to prepare. I want to sort out this issue with Suna. But your selection will be made known to the Feudal Lord. In case something happens to me, it can only be rubber stamped."

Being Hokage. Kakashi wasn't ready for it. But this was a service to his village that he had to carry out. After all, if he refused, the Sandaime would be forced to carry on. This whole thing with Naruto was weighing on him. And on the side, there was Suna.

Kakashi was just happy that Naruto was alive. He hoped to see the blond. As soon as he could. Maybe they would share a drink.

"In any case, Naruto also said Danzo had something to do with Suna. It is perhaps, important that we get hold of the situation."

"In what way?"

"That is the challenging part. We will work something out. You can leave."

Kakashi nodded. "Do you think there is a chance that he will come back to Konoha?"

Hiruzen put on a stone faced look. "I don't know, Kakashi. I don't know. It does not look like it will be the case. He said he has another home. But would not say where. But as I said, I still hope for things to change."

"You think he joined another great Nation?"

"No. it would cause conflict. But if he has, it becomes another issue. It would be like handing the Kyubi to another rival. Keep in mind, Konoha does not have a good relationship with any other Nation among the Great Five and we would be the only ones without a Jinchuriki."


Outskirts of Konoha

Naruto stopped in his hop through the trees, and landed down, folding his arms across his chest while leaning against the trunk of a tree. He had a deep frown on his lips. Someone was tracking him down. He could've increased his pace and speed away, but that was unnecessary. Nobody was going to make him rush. He had succeeded in his mission, and nobody was going make him change directions. He was in no hurry to go to Kiri after all.

When the person landed, he raised an eye brow. Jiraiya. The legendary Sannin in the flesh. That was two down and one more to go and he would have met all three Sannin.

"I thought it was someone else, but I didn't think it was you."

"Who else would it be?"

"Who knows?" Naruto shrugged indifferently.

Naruto exactly as he was in the picture. He looked a little more intimidating in person. And his eyes didn't seem to have any emotion in them. Jiraiya hadn't thought he'd be meeting the Uzumaki in such circumstances. He would have even liked for the Sandaime to have tried to talk him into staying a little while longer.

"While you're studying me. It is a pleasure to me someone of your status. Maybe one day, I will get to see your legendary power." Naruto stated calmly. "It must state that while the power of your former teammate is great, his arrogance leaves little to be desired…" he paused and then smiled. "Not that there was anything to desire about him in the first place."

Him. Then he was talking about Orochimaru. "Did you engage him in battle?"

"Hardly."

"It is not surprising you have met him."

"I wish I wouldn't have. It is hard to think someone as twisted as him was a student of the Sandaime. It must be a shame to his legacy…"

"Have you also met Sasuke?"

"I saw him before going to Konoha. Worried that Orochimaru will take his body?"

"Orochimaru cannot be allowed to gain the Sharingan."

Naruto shrugged. He really didn't care about. But he doubted Sasuke would give his body to Orochimaru. The again, he was no god. Anything could happen.

"And, what can I do for you, Jiraiya-san? I wish to peacefully continue on my journey. Alone."

The alone was unnecessarily said in a hardened tone. Jiraiya hadn't come here for a fight. He just wanted to see and talk to Naruto. The surprising part was the respect the blond was giving him. There was no mocking. But the disappointment was evident about Orochimaru.

"Sensei said you didn't answer questions about coming back to Konoha."

"And you're probing because you think he is lying?"

"No. I just want to understand." To start saying that Minato was like his son would be making a great mistake. "He also mentioned you have a home. Is it another Great Nation?"

"You're supposed to be a spy master. shouldn't you tell me that?" Naruto asked. "But no, I have not joined any Great Nation. That is all I can say. Is there anything else?"

"Are you an enemy?"

Naruto laughed at the question. "I didn't think the question would come from you. My father was your beloved student. I didn't think you'd make this stance."

"Sensei didn't want to ask but it is a question that has to be asked because you are intentionally staying away from Konoha and have mentioned you have a home. We must thank you for dealing with Danzo, but we must still know where we stand with you."

"Hard pressed. Loyalty to one's village is remarkable. I truly cannot understand this notion. Maybe one day I will," Naruto said, looking up into the sky. "I am not your enemy. But I could be lying. But this much is true: I have no love for Konoha."

"I see."

Jiraiya smiled sadly. What to do now? What was going to happen? He couldn't try to use force. And he hoped the day never came that he had to use force against Naruto.

"Even so, I would like to have an open communication with you."

"You people are too kind. Danzo would have rather kill me than let me go. And it is reasonable. I hold the Kyubi and now the Sharingan. And yet, you're not willing to do anything to me. No village would make this decision." Naruto said in a hardened tone. "If you allow sentiments to get the best of you, you will live to regret it."

"Would you like us if we chained you to Konoha?"

"Do you ask shinobi of their feelings before missions? Shinobi follow the Kage. Their sent to suicide missions. They are never asked if they are happy with it. A mission is a mission. If you allow the emotions to supersede of those of an entire village, you'll be in trouble." Naruto lectured the Toad Sage. "I must depart. But it was a pleasure, Jiraiya-sama. Maybe one day, it can be a pleasant chat under different circumstances."

There was no way Jiraiya could not interpret those words as a stern warning from Naruto. "So, you're saying, you can become an enemy of Konoha."

"Well, I am not a friend of Konoha."

Itachi was going to roll in his grave. If his eyes were ever to be used against the Leaf, it would be sad thing. But as the Kyubi said, the dead had no saying in the living. They lived their life, and he had to live his.

"I nonetheless have no war with you. We can allow the past to be the past." Naruto smiled.

"Something funny?"

"Not at all. It is just that those words are very convenient," he replied with a shake of his head. "Jiraiya-sama… Once again, a pleasure to have met a renowned shinobi as you. It would be an even greater pleasure if I could fight, and I step out of it with my head held high."


Hiruzen wasn't surprised to see Jiraiya return with an expressionless look on his face. He must have met with Naruto. "Not according to what you expected?"

Jiraiya walked toward the window and stared outside. For all his life he has been fighting for this village without question and he would still continue to do so. He hadn't sacrificed much unlike those who have given up the gift of life. But still, so much blood shed. Wars fought. Loved ones lost. For the sake of Konohagakure. Looking at the streets, it looked so peaceful. But they never truly enjoyed this peace. For shinobi, every day was a battle.

"He was different from how you pictured," the Toad Sage said, turning back to his sensei. He walked over and settled in front of the desk.

"I knew him and he knew me."

"Maybe but it was his refusal to commit to friendship that had me worried. But more so when he mentioned that we were too kind for letting him off. He was lecturing me about it, sensei. He said we might regret it one day."

Indeed, they were being kind. But Hiruzen believed it was the least they could do for the sacrifice that Minato made for the Leaf. Naruto had not threatened this home. If he did, it would be a different matter.

"Did you discover his home?"

"He didn't say. But from the way he spoke, he has been Roaming around the Elemental Nations. And he knows what is happening. He also mentioned that he met Orochimaru and Sasuke before coming here. My guess is he received information about Danzo from Orochimaru."

"Those two did work together. I shouldn't even be surprised if they were still working together," Hiruzen replied. "What do you think of him as a person."

"It is hard to tell. I'll need to see more of him."

"But the fact that he came here to kill Danzo along with his men should tell you something."

Where they even letting the blond go for killing Danzo? No, they should be thankful. It was only a matter of time anyway and it saved them the effort.

"He isn't afraid to get his hands dirty. He must have been killing for a while. I heard word that there was someone in Kiri during their transition after Yagura was killed."

"Naruto was still a child when it happened."

"Itachi was still a child when he joined Anbu." Jiraiya shrugged. "That person is not kind as Minato. And he isn't someone to be taken in lightly."


A week later, Earth Country

Boom!

The branch Naruto stepped on exploded with crimson flames. He was forced to quickly jump off, landing to the ground, otherwise unharmed by the flames. He looked around while standing still. There were four of them, all wearing masks.

At this rate, Iwagakure may as well put a bounty on his head. Their shinobi were actively plotting against him. The high risk masked man always had it in him. The good thing was that Iwa would not have this become drawn out in public. Lest it attracts the attention of the Hidden Leaf.

He lifted his right hand, put a hand on the hilt of his sword and then removed it from his back. It in its usual form, its length was normal. He channelled chakra through it and its normal length came into view.

"Earth Style: Rising Earth."

The ground he stood on pulled up into air. Naruto held his sword firmly, looking up as he sensed chakra from above. One man was crashing toward him, right hand encased by chunks of earth. He swung his sword from his feet, cutting in an upward wave to meet the incoming attack. The blade hit the enhanced fist. There was no resistance as the sword cut through it, tearing through the man's arm through his shoulder.

Simultaneously, another flashed from behind. But Naruto expected this attack. He summoned his secondary sword, and stabbed it in a backward back, piercing through the man's throat.

'Hmm?' His Sharingan caught something.

But before he could register it, he sensed chakra from below. He jumped slightly as two hands burst out from the Earth pillar. While still in mid-air, Naruto pulled both swords in front and stabbed them down, piercing into the pillar. A loud scream follow.

Boom!

The scream was shadowed by the sound of an explosion. Right next to Naruto. The flames that burst out sent him crashing toward a free with bruises but he managed to recover his balance quickly and then landed down.

"You should really stop coming to the Earth Country." Kabuto said, walking toward Naruto from behind, dragging remaining shinobi alongside.

"There was business to do…" Naruto shrugged. "I won't be limited in freedom because someone decided to play a cruel joke on me and told Iwa about my existence and Uzushio."

"Why not just appear before the Tsuchikage and clear things out." Kabuto smiled. "But that isn't really why they are after you, is it?"

Naruto snorted as he sheathed one of his swords. "As if that stubborn old man would give up."

"They are not going to stop until you're dead. And it will become a little more problematic if they come to know your other identity."

"I will deal with it then. Admittedly, it will be a pain." At least for now, they didn't include Kiri in their battle with him. Naruto understood this point. Onoki was keeping an eye on Suna and Konoha. If the two went into battle, he was going to insert himself and take advantage of Konoha. Maybe settle scores of the Third War. If Kiri became involved, it became a different issue.

"Why did you decide to go to Iwa?"

"I was testing my skills. I didn't think they would take it so seriously. Worse, my visit coincided with Deidara's madness…" Naruto sighed. "But my identity was hidden. Although young, nothing should have given me away." He stared at Kabuto.

"Orochimaru-sama must have done it after your encounter." There was nothing funny about the humiliation the Sannin faced in the hands of Naruto. In fact, Kabuto didn't even like thinking about it.

"Maybe I went too far. Either way, what is done is done. What is the situation in the border?" Naruto waved his other sword before it disappeared into thin air.

As far Kabuto was concerned, Naruto kept one sword with him. The other was always in a sealed state within its sheath because of its size. But he could still alter its length during battle. The other was kept in a safe place. And in case Naruto needed to run, it was his safe bet. Nonetheless, Kabuto didn't know where this was. It wasn't in Kiri nor in Uzu. He'd tried getting it out of the blond, but he was ignored.

Those swords were special tools. And they were made into this by the various seals within them. If Orochimaru ever came to know the true extent of their abilities, he would no doubt covert them.

But they were still not the only weapons Naruto held.

"Suna hunter Nin still patrol the borders. No shinobi of the Hidden Leaf goes there. And they intercept most mission request the Wind Lord attempts to send to Konoha. In return, the Leaf does not permit Suna shinobi into the Fire Nation. I heard because of this action, the Wind was scheming with one its bordering nations to send missions there as Suna still demands a high price and some missions can't be done because they are not permitted in Fire Country."

"Maybe things will tone down a bit. With Danzo dead to keep the fire running," Naruto said with a shake of his head.

"Things went well in Konoha then."

"Though persistent, Danzo is dead, along with all his men." Naruto replied. "I'm going to Kiri. Don't follow me."

Kabuto adjusted his glasses before asking. "How was it like being in Konoha? Did you take time to wander about? I'm sure it would have been quite an experience."

Naruto turned and faced Kabuto with a narrowed look on his face.

Kabuto quickly raised both his hands. "I'm not trying to pry into your emotions."

Naruto ignored Kabuto and pressed with his agenda. "I want the location of Kiri's swords. I will spend about a week or two in Kiri and then return. It is about time the Mizukage asks of me the favour."

"And if she doesn't?"

"I'll offer my services. I'm interested in Kiri regaining its strength. Nothing more. Even if I must hunt down its lost Bijuu, I will do so."

"The Sandaime will be so disappointed." Kabuto said with a chuckle.

"It would not be first time he is disappointed and certainly not the last."


Days later

"Naruto!" A child cried, rushing toward him with wide arms.

Naruto smiled, and waited for the child to reach him before picking her up. at her loud voice, the others saw him as they played within the playground of the orphanage.

The building that housed them was decent. They were just kids without parents. As he was. But unlike him, they did not suffer from emotional abuse. They each knew the names of their parents and the fact that they were casualties in the shinobi war. He had found this place to help them. Kiri hadn't been in a position to do everything. Yagura had trounced on the village's coffers. And the civil war had made it starved of many missions. In short, there was too much rebuilding to focus on every. The Mizukage could only do what was within her means.

Maybe it was out of sentiments that he build the place. Maybe he didn't want other children to suffer the same way as he did. He knew the feeling of being without parents.

"Sayoko, you're not fair!" another shouted, rushing toward him.

The girl turned and stuck out her tongue.

It was always a fight on who had to be carried when he arrived. The girl had luck. But that was because she was a gifted sensor. She used her abilities to her advantage.

Chuckling lightly, Naruto put the girl down and then ruffled the other boy's hair. "You are growing faster. You're going to be tall as me soon!"

"I eat a lot!" The boy made a fist, a proud look on his face.

"What about me?"

"Growing ever more into a fine lady, Sayoko."

He could spend a couple of moments to see them and play with them. Naruto nodded and then joined the others. He sat down, telling them some made up stories. They always liked to hear some fantasies. But there were some important lessons. The reality of their world. A love to each other. They were brothers and sisters. Of course, with humans, young or old, there were some who didn't like the other. Humans were not capable of agreeing on everything. Some hated the other because of perceived favouritism. Naruto did as best as he could.

But he thought it was a curse. For he too held some envy for the love Itachi held for Sasuke.


Mei smiled when Naruto entered her office. When she first knew him, it was a redhead, quiet and young. But now he was an adult. How she wished he could join her village. But he refused. He refused to be one of Kiri even though he took hostage in the bloody mist and helped to reform the village, ending a bloody reign of her processor. He cared much for the people, but would not join her. He refused to divulge any other information about his identify. But Mei hadn't bothered to ask much. He was helpful and earnest when it came to it.

"Stopped by your place?" She meant the orphanage.

"Yes," Naruto nodded as he walked over to the Mizukage's desk. He settled down peacefully and offered his greetings before adding to his answer. "Wanted to drop off a couple of things."

"You know we can handle it, right?"

"I know but letting go is difficult." Naruto admitted.

Children of the bloody Mist. A reign Yagura made possible. Maybe Naruto was the one who dragged Mei to this position. But if not for it, Kiri would have fallen to its knees and the people would have continued to suffer. The rampant corruption. The policies that discriminated. And an elite of people who sought nothing but to loot and stay in power. It had been ended.

There was a consequence of a push back by those who had no problem with Yagura's reign. In fact, there were people who supported it. It was such people who pushed this village into a bloodbath. But they had pulled through and she became leader. With much resistance, but she still made it. She was still able to twist this village into the right direction.

Parentheses children were a knock off effect. They couldn't do much. But Naruto filled in the gap and helped weed out those who sought to destabilize things for their own end.

"You could still be one of us."

Naruto smiled. She always wanted him to be one of them. Saying, he would make a good Mizukage one day. Maybe that could happen, but Naruto had other operations to run.

"I'm going to stop coming here as much as I do. I suppose that will affect the children."

"I had feeling this subject was going to come soon."

"Unavoidable. I just came back from Konoha. I did never say Konoha was my birth place." Worst, they didn't know he was a Jinchurki. The Byakugan could see the chakra, but Naruto had methods to hide his seal from prying eyes.

"Well, we always did figure out that you were connected to Konoha somehow given the Sharingan. But you're not a shinobi of Konoha."

Mei knew that much. And she really didn't care much but was curious. He had been just a child when be first appeared before them. A little mysterious. Maybe still was, but Mei thought she knew a lot more than she did then.

"No. I was just born there. I left before I even joined the academy. I was never in their books. That is why nobody outside of Konoha knows about me. The village has not made anything public and only a few know that I have been missing. There is a lot that is irrelevant for this moment." Naruto smiled warmly. "I brought some trouble for you with going against Yagura."

Mei shook her head. If he had not done so, what would have become of Kiri? They were fine as they are now. It may be that she earned enemies. But things worked out for her. And Kiri. Which was the important part. At any event, they were enjoying a peace that they have never enjoyed since the very founding of this village. Naruto has never interfered in the way they ran things. He has all but helped when asked.

"It would have happened sooner or later. The village was already on a free-fall. We made a miraculous recovery."

"At some cost. But that is how things are in the shinobi world. When it comes to conflict, it is a natural effect of the uniqueness we all possess. I have learned and grown a lot by coming here. You have also taught me a great deal of things."

"This really does sound like farewell message."

"I'll still come. But I'll be based in Uzu. There are people there that I must protect. At any event, I won't always be doing favourable things."

Mei had always known there was another side of Naruto. Sometimes she even debated whether he was truly a good person. What was obvious was that he cared. He really did care for the children.

That statement now just sent her mind racing. Maybe this was why he never wanted to become part of Kiri. Not to mention, it wasn't everyone who knew his real identity. He was a mask wearing person. In the outside world to people who even hired mercenaries, he was Shinigami. Mei used the infamous mercenary for free. He never even demanded anything from her. When last did she even see him wearing that ugly mask?

"I see…" she paused, watching him carefully. "You'll always be welcome in Kiri. No matter what happens."

Naruto realized she was opting against asking what he would be doing. "I doubt that. But I will consider it one day. Maybe I will come back. You never truly know if you'll stick to your plans. Some circumstances may even force you to shift to a different direction."

"Life is not that predictable." Mei said. "I have one last request. I will pay. I don't have the necessary men to do this. We want to revive the Seven Swordsman, but the majority of the Swords have gone missing. I want to hire you to get them."

"A job. Well, I'm always happy doing a job."

The following day

Mei was slowly walking within a thick mist when her body froze. The murderous intent that pressed against her wasn't what paused her movements, but the sharp blade inches away from her throat. Within a second, the mist dispersed. It didn't take long for her to recognize the blade and the chakra.

"What if you'd cut my throat?"

Mei wasn't going to lie and say she would have dodged the blade. There were too many thoughts running rampant within her mind. For now, she shoved them, to focus on this person standing on her right side.

"I was going to burn your body to a crisp and go back pretending as if nothing happened." Naruto replied with a shrug.

He wasn't looking at her, but that he managed to say those words without any emotion scared Mei. It led her to a few uncomfortable thoughts on whether he could turn on her. He wasn't greedy. Betraying everyone and accepting mission request as long as someone paid. He had his pickings. To say he was loyal to money would be wrong. He was loyal to his thoughts, and even to this day, Mei couldn't say with confidence she knew what he hoped to achieve in life.

"Why do I get the feeling that you'd actually do that?" Mei asked. She noticed his blade still hadn't moved. "When are you going to move this thing?"

Naruto removed his sword and then sheathed it. He glanced at Mei for a second before walking over to a boulder. He settled, knees raised and stared down at the Mizukage.

"Isn't it dangerous for you to be out here alone?"

"I can take care of myself."

"I didn't say you couldn't," Naruto replied. But she wasn't the most powerful. Naruto was debating on who was the most powerful between her and Yagura. No, the former Kage was a powerful shinobi without a doubt.

He smiled. In all his years in this village, not once has he ever used the power of the Kyubi. Not even when he plotted the downfall of Yagura and had to defend day and night against those who had supported his reign.

Secrets, huh? Naruto wondered why he kept some of them. Maybe it was just for the fun of it. It wasn't a matter of trust. Mei was a good person. She would stab herself before she betrayed someone who she considered a friend, or even any other person for that matter.

Maybe she was lost in the world of shinobi. Or maybe he was just extreme in this thinking.

"But this is a dangerous place. I have enemies."

"Of the mask."

Naruto shook his head. "It will get worse when the mask is revealed. But I had a bit of a skirmish with Iwagakure some years ago."

With a mask, the Sharingan did not exist, and he fought loosely with the sword. Without a mask, he hasn't gotten into fights in which others lived to see another day. Even when they fought, he used the Sharingan and kept his sword away. It was remarkable that Danzo failed to make the connection, or maybe he didn't know about the mask.

"Ao told me you have Iwa Hunter-nin looking for you."

Naruto raised an eye brow.

Mei smiled. "You're not the only one who can keep secrets."

"I see," Naruto was silent for a couple of seconds. "But he does not know the reason. And Iwa has not made anything public. It would be embarrassing for them."

"What exactly did you do?"


Not exactly as promised but I worked as best as I could, leaving it to the tipping point where their relationship changed. I hope the "parts" of this chapter did not make it hard to follow.

I'll do more in the next chapter

The Omnipresent Sage