Chapter 17: Conspiracies and Lost Relations
Dinah continued to press her attack doing her best to try and breach Naruto's defenses. He in turn was deflecting, blocking and dodging everyone of her attacks then moved to counter as he blocked a right fist from her, spun, and hit her with a back hand to the face. Before he could press the attack she twisted with the momentum and used a spinning back kick to his jaw sending him back.
The two went back to their fighting stances with Dinah breathing heavily but her opponent still seemed as fresh as ever despite the sweat on his brow.
Kaldur, Robin, and Wally stood watching the two combatants as they sparred against each other.
"Are you still certain of Dinah''s victory." the Atlantean asked Robin.
"Hey she's right up there with Batman in terms of fighting skill. She can still win this." he said though in a tone that suggested that he wasn't all that sure of his prediction.
"I don't know, she's looking pretty tired." said Wally.
The two of them had woken to find Naruto and Dinah sparring against each other. For a while the contest was even. Kaldur had apologized and they were going to take their leave but both of their trainers told them it was alright to watch. Neither of them had declared their sparring matches to be a private thing plus it might motivate them to improve their own skills even further.
The two went at it again and it was close to afternoon. Normally they would stop to a draw or if Naruto would beat her but Dinah was determined today to win her first sparring match with the shinobi.
'Easier said then done.' the heroine thought to herself. She knew from the beginning that this would be an uphill battle. Naruto was very well versed in combat and his stamina was off the charts. She knew that a prolonged battle would not be to her benefit. At the beginning of the match she moved for a quick victory with a series of jabs with a right hook. Naruto stopped her barrage and moved with his own storm of kicks and punches which she dodged for the most part but one or two got through which forced her on the back foot.
Then that she tried to recover by going for a leg take-down to force him the ground but he jumped away when she knelt, indicating that he knew what she was going to try. When she went for the other leg he used a palm strike to her in gut that emphasized the point. He moved in with a right hook which she managed to catch with both arms and tossed him to the ground but he got up too quickly before she could manage anything.
And so it went. Naruto had played to his game plan brilliantly with them striking out each managing a hit but neither gaining an advantage so far in this match.
'And he says he's not the best in taijutsu.' she thought to herself as jabbed several times before going for a side kick to the face. The punches he dodged and blocked the kick moving for a kick to left leg forcing her to back off.
She was getting sloppy and she knew it. Half of it was exhaustion the other half frustration. But she was determined to make this the first time she won their sparring matches if only to say that she got the best of him this one time.
These sessions started with a bargain. Now it was a weekly routine that she relished. Oliver never gave her this much trouble in their sparring sessions. It was exhilarating what they did on a weekly basis but she wanted to go for at least one win in her column.
In a split second after this Naruto charged and grabbed trying to take her down. Dinah used the momentum to flip over him, grab his arm and got him on the ground with his right arm in her arm-bar. She put the pressure on the ligament more so then usual because she knew he could handle it.
Even so Dinah was hoping with the amount of pressure she was putting he would tap out. Instead he lifted his arm a bit taking some of the pressure off and managed to get to his feet. He then lifted his arm and slammed her into the ground. She held though and kept the lock so Naruto slammed her into the ground again harder and managed to get her to loosen the hold. Dinah was on the ground but managed to raise her head to Naruto kneeling with his hand stuck out in front of him.
"Lets call this a draw now before one of us gets seriously hurt." he said taking a small breath shaking his arm trying to get feeling back into it.
Dinah panted and looked a bit frustrated but took a deep breath and nodded.
"I thought I had you this time. But it was a bit desperate I admit using that maneuver."
"It hurt like hell for a moment." said Naruto.
"Dude!" said Wally suddenly. "I saw how much pressure she put on your arm. She could've broken it."
"I'll bet she has broken a few arms with many maneuvers including that arm-bar." Naruto responded. "But pro shinobi are made of somewhat sterner stuff."
"Even so I had hoped it would make you tap." said the heroine leaning on her left arm to look at him since she didn't feel like getting up.
"It did hurt. I would still take a broken arm instead of giving up but that's just me"
The shinobi stood up then and gave a hand to Dinah. She just laughed, took it, and was helped to her feet.
"Anyone know what time it is?" Dinah asked while rubbing her neck.
"Its about three pm." said Kaldur.
"Great." she groaned. "I have a date with Ollie tonight. I'm going to be sore as hell."
"Would you mind turning around please?" Naruto suddenly asked. Dinah curiously did so. The others saw Naruto's hands glowing green and moved them across her back. Almost immediately the pain and soreness she felt from their latest contest disappeared. When he was done he backed away.
"Feel better?" he asked.
"Much." she said with a thankful smile. "Is there anything your chakra can't do?"
"I'll let you know." Naruto joked.
"In any event I better go. Its getting close to when I meet with Ollie for dinner. I need to get ready." said Dinah.
"Of course." he said. "Have fun tonight."
"Thanks." said Dinah. "Personally though I hope you have some fun yourself Naruto. While I think we both enjoy our sparring sessions I don't think that is the only thing you enjoy."
"Yeah man." said Wally interjecting himself into the conversation. "Aside from when you took Dinah, Conner, and M'gann out to dinner that one time you are hardly ever out of the cave."
"My sector of space has kept me busy for two years Wally. Besides, most of the fun I seem to have is on my home world. Whenever I get there that is.".
"Even so there is things to do here on Earth when you have time." said Kaldur.
"Though I would think with a planet full of ninja I doubt you get bored often." said Robin.
"You're not wrong there." said Naruto thinking of his homeworld. It wasn't long after the Gokage had approved of the treaty between Ajnin and Xudar that they took it to the Daimyo to be officially approved. While they had reservations of making such a treaty with another race but ultimately had decided the benefits far outweighed the worry.
The Gokage reminded them that it was only a matter of time before other races became more aware of their world. Especially after Naruto had gained the title of the Hero of the Betrassian Blitz. That along with his deeds made them even wonder why it had taken as long as it did for another race from their sector to approach them.
Naruto was roused from his thoughts as Wally mentioned something else.
"For all we know he's got a girlfriend waiting from him at home to."
"Actually I have never had the pleasure of having a girlfriend." said Naruto. To his surprise that made them all look at him with wide eyes.
"Why are you all looking at me like that?"
"We are sorry Naruto. Its just we kind of find that hard to believe." said Kaldur.
"Why?" Naruto questioned. "I'm more than a little busy as you all pointed out."
"That still doesn't answer the question." said Dinah frowning. "From what I've seen of you, and this is just me pointing this out, you would be quite the catch for any woman in just about anywhere I would think if you stopped and gave them the chance."
The shinobi started to feel his face heat up at how casually she was saying this.
"Don't you have to get ready for you date!?"
Dinah sighed.
"You're right." she said. Naruto breathed a sigh of relief before she glared at him. "But this conversation isn't over. See you later."
With that she walked into the Zeta-Tube and was gone.
Naruto stood there grumbling.
'That is one battle I think even you will have trouble winning.' said Kurama.
'Put a sock in it furball!" said Naruto.
"She's got your number." quipped Wally with a smirk. Kaldur and Robin glared at their friend before suddenly getting some distance from. The speedster looked to see Naruto giving him a death glare.
"Seeing as how you got energy to talk Wally, how about we get some exercises in juking again. You're still lack some finesse with it."
Wally gulped.
It was at this instant that Naruto's ring starting beeping.
"Yes?" he answered.
"Naruto, it's me, Natu." said the voice of the lantern's specialized doctor.
"Natu?" asked Robin.
"A friend from the Corps." Naruto answered. "What is it doctor?"
"I know that this is the time for you monthly visit to your home world. Are you on your way?" she asked.
"I was going to take care of some business first." he glared at Wally. "But I can on my way now and be there quickly. Is there something wrong?"
"Not anything involving the planet but there is something that you need to come home to see." she said. "It something of a time issue."
"I'll be there as soon as I can." said Naruto turning the rings comm off. "Looks like you have your stay of execution for now Wally but when I get back from visiting home training is order."
And with that Naruto transformed into his uniform and flew off towards the nearest docking bay.
"Great." said Wally dreading when the shinobi would return.
(Above Ajnin's orbit)
As Naruto flew above his home world he looked around and scanned the nearby orbit.
'No sign of any ships or species that I know of that would want to do Ajnin harm. At least not yet.' he thought as checked his ring to confirm what he already seem to notice.
'Strange then that Natu would have a sudden urgency for you to make you're visit home.' said Kurama.
Naruto shook his head and flew down to his home planet. As he did so he decided to fly to the hospital and land there rather then just land on the ground. Even though it was still in the morning and people were just now coming out of their beds for work he didn't want to risk being spotted.
'Are you flying there because you don't want to be swarmed by your fans again? More specifically the female variant of those fans?' Kurama joked already knowing the answer as Naruto grumbled.
"Natu I'm here where are you?" he asked not bothering to respond to his partner.
"I'm just going into the hospital meet me there." she said. From there Naruto looked around from the air. Seeing it safe he landed on to the hospital, transformed back into his civilian attire and quickly walked into the building where Natu was waiting for him in the front room.
"Okay doctor what is this about? Not that I don't like to come home but what was so urgent you had to bring me to the hospital?"
Natu to his surprise had a small smile.
"Nothing to be concerned with Naruto. One of the patients here wanted to speak with you face to face." she said.
This confused Naruto more as they moved to one of the room in the main wing.
"Did you bring him dear lady?" asked the voice of an old man as they opened the room. Naruto looked to find the owner of the voice to be an old but well preserved man laying in bed. He had what appeared to be long greyed hair with red streaks wrapped up into a pony tail and had brown eyes. His appeared to be in better shape then most men who from what the shinobi could see was approaching his nineties. Maybe even his hundreds.
"Okay is someone going to let me in on the joke?" he asked.
The old man laughed. "Ha! You didn't tell him who I was did you miss?"
"I wanted it to be a surprise." she said with a now full smile.
"Wanted what to be a surprise?" said Naruto.
"The fact that you have another relative to meet." said the old man. "My name, young man, is Yuudai Uzumaki."
Naruto stood there for a moment as his eyes widened in realization.
"You're one of the survivors of the Uzumaki clan."
"Of our clan. Yes Naruto I am." said Yuudai.
"I'll leave you two alone." she said and she left the room her job done.
There was a moment of silence between them before Yuudai started to cough for a bit. Naruto quickly moved to get a class of water and gave it to the elder Uzumaki.
"Thank you my boy." he said downing the drink. "I'm sure right now that you have many questions."
"That's an understatement." said the young shinobi. "My first I guess is why now? Why come to Konoha after all this time?"
"Why else?" he said incredulously. "To meet my young clan member who has pretty much saved this world from itself and from what I have heard became something more."
He gestured to the ring that Naruto was wearing.
"And I wanted to know what it like? Being up there in the stars seeing other worlds and meeting new people that are not like us."
"There are a lot of people like us out there in the galaxy. And there are those who are not." said Naruto pulling up a chair to sit in next to his long lost clansmen. "There are those who resemble us in human form and those that are so different physically its hard to believe that we are in the same universe. But from I have seen so far many of them want the same things as us. And there are a few that want more then their fair share of the galaxy. As a Green Lantern I protect those who can't defend themselves and try to make peace where I can between neighbors. Not much different when peace was made between the Five Great Shinobi Countries. Only difference is in scale."
"Scale?" the old man asked.
"Instead of countries its worlds. Whole planets could be at war with each other and we as Green Lanterns have to try and stop it. Sometimes we succeed sometimes we don't. We still have to try." said Naruto.
"I get the feeling you've had more successes then failures young one." said Yuudai with a proud smile.
"Maybe." said Naruto. "But success can bring about it own problems. I was sent out of my sector and now am stuck on one planet because of my success on one world and for secrets that I withheld from the Guardians."
"How so?" asked Yuudai.
"My chakra and my power ring have a symbiotic thing going. My chakra gives more power to the constructs I can create and in turn the ring gives more power to my chakra." Naruto explained.
"And given that you are the Jinchuriki of the Nine Tails-"
"Kurama." said Naruto interrupting him. "That's his name."
"Apologies." said Yuudai remembering hearing that the Tailed Beast inside Naruto and Naruto himself had formed an unlikely friendship. "But assuming since you are a Jinchuriki to Kurama I would expect that you're chakra would be far more potent."
Naruto nodded.
"Have you tested the boundaries of you're abilities with the ring?" the old Uzumaki asked.
"Not yet." said Naruto. "We have gone to a certain extent but as for our full power me and Kurama decided to keep that for the dire emergencies."
"Understandable and wise of you." said Yuudai. "But obviously problematic given that our race is new to the galaxy as it were. I'm still trying to process that by the way."
"I've been out there in the stars for two years but its still a mystery to me." Naruto joked.
"And now from what I hear that mystery will be the rest of out peoples to explore." said the old man with smile. He then went into a coughing fit.
"Are you alright?" he asked as the elder Uzumaki's coughing subsided.
"Yes." he breathed. "And no. I'm dying Naruto."
This made Naruto's eyes widened.
"Don't look so surprised. Our clan has always been known for our vitality myself included. I have lived for over two-hundred years. I saw the violence of the Waring Clans era and the formation of the Elemental nations. I saw our clan fall and scatter to the winds. Finally I saw the chaos of the Fourth Great Ninja War, and the new peaceful age our world has finally arrived at. Yet I am not immortal. Twilight is upon me and soon night will fall." said Yuudai.
"But we've only just met." said Naruto seeing how unfair the situation was it seemed. Yuudai placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"I still have some time left. According to your Doctor Natu was it despite my long years I am in relative good health. A year or so before old age finally catches me is what she estimated. Time enough for us to talk when we can." said Yuudai.
Naruto nodded and despite himself smiled at his long lost relative. It was then that the door opened and Natu entered.
"I'm sorry to interrupt guys but I heard coughing and wanted to check in on you Mr. Uzumaki."
"Please its Yuudai young lady." said the elder Uzumaki. "And it was just a coughing fit. Nothing some water and rest can't handle."
"That's good to know." said Natu who then turned to Naruto. "Naruto I should let you know that the Hokage wished to talk with you at your leisure."
"Something wrong?" Naruto asked.
"No but I get the feeling that whatever it is has to do with Ajnin going out into the universe. Which brings me to another subject. An ambassador from Xudar arrived along with Tomar-Tu and his engineering team for Ajnin's first ship. He wanted to meet with you and was rather incessant about it." said Natu with a bit of annoyance at mentioning of this person.
Naruto sighed.
"I will return to talk more with you Yuudai." said Naruto.
"I look forward to it." he said. From there both Naruto and Natu left the room and walked out.
"Thank you for letting me know so I could come early." said Naruto.
"I figured you would want to meet a fellow member of your clan. A clan that I might add that had seemingly died off." said Natu surprising the young shinobi.
"How did you know that?" said Naruto. "And how much time have you spent being on Ajnin?"
"I admit I have been here quite often." said Natu. "Your peoples way of healing fascinates me Naruto. How you're chakra can be used to heal injuries and sickness even I at times thought impossible never ceases to amaze. On top of which the doctors here also ask me for what I do for patients whether its how I use my ring or whatever techniques that I have developed."
"And where do you stay at if you don't mind me asking?" Naruto asked.
"The Hyuga clan compound thanks to your friend Hinata." said Natu. "I also asked to learn a bit about their fighting style."
"But why? Most races don't even have chakra points." said Naruto.
"But they do have pressure points." said Natu in a lecturing tone. "All races have those, and they can either heal or incapacitate. I prefer to end a fight quickly and be able to deal the least amount of damage when possible."
Naruto nodded in understanding.
"As for how I knew about your clan being near extinction I have chatted with Tsunade while having a drink. She explained about how the Uzumaki's where attacked because of their ability with fuinjutsu. This history of the clan which she learned from her own grandmother."
"Mito Uzumaki." said Naruto
"Exactly." said Natu.
"Makes sense." said Naruto. "Sounds like you are having a grand old time here."
"Like I said whenever I can. The council for the most don't seem to like it but my time is my own unless there is an emergency." said Natu.
"In any case I better see to the Xudarian ambassador that came by. Where is he?" asked Naruto.
"In a new location if you can believe it. Thanks to the Hokage the Xudarians actually managed to build a new engineering research center here. Your people don't have a name for it yet but they have managed to start designing for the ship with what you provided them. It's past the ninja tool research facility you can't miss it." said Natu.
"Thanks doc. Be sure to keep an eye on Yuudai when you can." said Naruto as they got outside. From there he flew off to where she told him.
'Natu has come to be really informed about Konoha since she started coming here on her off hours.' said Kurama.
'Yeah makes one wonder though. I don't think she would do so intentionally but do you think the Guardians might be using her for information gathering?' said Naruto not wanting to believe it. He liked Natu and she was great at being a doctor. Not just because of her skill but also for genuinely caring for her patients, her allies, and her friends.
'I didn't sense anything that gave off that vibe. But then I wasn't actively looking for anything negative. Still, I don't believe she would be doing so on purpose nor stupid enough to be tricked into doing so.' said Kurama.
Naruto shook his head.
'I suppose you're right. This whole Light business and trying to find the mole in the team is making me paranoid.'
'Remember though: the paranoid survive.' said Kurama.
'But they don't live.' said Naruto thinking that was the way Danzo and Root were. From there he flew the rest of the way in silence.
(Earth, New York)
"This close I tell you Ollie." said Dinah using her hand in a pinching gesture. "This close I thought I had him."
Oliver smiled as he sat in front of her as she regaled him of her latest sparring match with the young man known as Naruto. They were having dinner at the Gramacy Tavern in New York at his suggestion. They had just gotten their orders and were drinking the Cabernet Franc red wine to which added to their current conversation.
"Sounds like this guy is tougher then most of us when it comes to hand to hand." he said.
"He is!" she exclaimed. "And he even said that he isn't the best of his world."
"Seriously?" he asked genuinely curious now.
"At least in the hand to hand department." said Dinah.
"Well its more than that given what we saw when he fought Amazo. And he even said he was holding back." said Oliver.
It was then that Dinah noticed they were talking shop again.
"I'm sorry." she said. "Here we are on a romantic date and we are talking about work."
He held her hand and kissed it.
"Its how we met Pretty Bird." he said. "I'm glad though that you found another punching bag instead of me."
"Yeah except he can punch back." she joked remembering their first sparring session and how she lead the Emerald Archer into thinking he was winning before trouncing him.
"How about what you guys have done with the rest of team?" he asked.
"Progress is going quickly. They are eager to learn. I especially like how Wally is going with his juking and learning to better utilize his speed. Whatever Naruto said to him must have stuck." she said.
"And your influence as well I'm guessing. You both are good for them." Oliver encouraged.
Dinah just shook her head.
"I think that's enough shop talk."
He agreed as their main courses came to their table. The two were having a good time. They had just left the restaurant when Oliver got a call from his cell phone.
"Just a minute Dinah." he said. Which was fine for her since being heroes they were still on call. However, she could see from his expression that something else was at work as his face went from relaxed to very tense.
"Are you sure?" he asked the caller. A minute later Oliver nodded. "Alright I will be there as soon as I can." he then hanged up the phone.
"Who was that?" she asked.
"Just something I need to take care of Pretty Bird. I'm sorry but could you meet me at home? I will be there soon." said Oliver.
"Sure but if its a case-"
"Its not." he said suddenly catching her off guard. He took a breath to relax. "Its just something I got to confirm. It won't take long I promise."
Dinah could tell there was more to the story but she could also tell when her boyfriend was in defensive mode. She had never seen it with her though which was concerning. But she nodded and decided to respect his wishes.
"I will see you at home." she said kissing him.
"Yes he will." he said with some of his usual swagger back. As they parted though she could still tell that something about that phone call put him on edge.
She just didn't know what it was. More importantly she didn't know if he was going to tell her.
(Ajnin)
Naruto landed in what looked to be a recently made hanger. He could see crew from Xudar, the Ninja Tool Research Facility and from what he could see from the Tazuna's construction crew. The last group surprised him as he entered.
"Naruto!" he heard a voice call out. He turned to see the now young adult Inari with Tomar-Tu and one other Xudarian he didn't recognize.
"Hey guys." said Naruto as they walked to him. "I didn't expect you to still be here Inari."
"I can explain that." said the other Xudarian. "Myself with the Gokage and the Daimyo felt that more than a few of your people would help with constructing your people's first starship with the designs you sent us from Earth. Young Inari here was the fist to volunteer along with others from your ninja tools division."
"And you would be?" Naruto questioned.
"Ah where are my manners." the Xudarian held out his hand. "My name is Motar-Mu. I'm an ambassador for Xudar along with Tomar-Tu."
Naruto shook it. "Pleasure to meet you."
"The pleasure is mine young Uzumaki. To help the people of the Hero of the Betrassian Blitz is an honor that no one should be denied.."
Naruto grimaced a bit.
"I'm sorry?" he asked.
"News has spread of what you did on Betrassus Naruto." said Tomar-Tu. "Even out this far from Frontier space you're deeds from that battle has become something of a legend."
"Great." said Naruto.
"Why so glum about it Naruto?" asked Inari. "You should be proud. You saved that world just like you save ours."
"The young man is correct." said the older Xudarian. "What you did for this sector before hand got our attention. What you did for Betrassus will begin to let other races know of yourself and more curious about your people. Be proud of what might await from your deeds."
"I am proud ambassador. Proud that I managed to save as many lives as I did. I'm also aware that not all that attention will be beneficial to my people." said Naruto.
"That's why we need to move forward Naruto." said Inari. "Like you said sooner or later we will be seen by the larger galaxy. And at the same time we need to start expanding ourselves and this ship is the first step in doing this."
"Which then begs the question." said Tomar-Tu. "Why did you get designs from Earth? Xudar has designs that could be used."
"Because Earth's technology is the closest to resembling ours. I figured it would be a good place to start before expanding to using our own designs." Naruto explained.
"Wise idea." said Tomar-Tu
"In any case I wanted to see the facility and to know what progress you have made on the ship." said Naruto.
"Well we should be finished with making the prototype by the end of the year and the first test flight should be done at the beginning of next year if by the Xudarians we have been working with say. They've been impressed with how quickly were able to pick up things but like you said the designs were from a race that is closer to us tech wise. Anything else is basically on a wait and see approach." said Inari.
"But we do have confidence that you people will get there." said Tomar-Tu.
"Very well." said Naruto. "I would stay longer but Kakashi-Sensei is waiting for me. See you later Inari. Good day gentlemen." he finished gesturing to his friend and the two Xudarians.
"Okay Naruto. Don't be a stranger." said Inari as Naruto took his leave.
Naruto left them to their devices and headed to the Hokage's office flying there but still in civilian clothes.
'Well progress is on the way.' Naruto said to his partner.
'You're nervous.' said Kurama to which Naruto did not respond. 'There's no shame in admitting it Naruto. The people of Ajnin are heading to a very unique period. One that has many treasures heading in its direction but not for the faint of heart. And it is a path that they must follow.'
'You're right.' said Naruto.
'With that said I'm not sure about Motar-Mu. I get the sense that he might be up to something. His emotions were well guarded.'
That statement got Naruto thinking about how the ambassador talked to him and how insistent he was about Ajnin moving forward.
'Even from Tomar?' he asked.
'Yeah.' said Kurama.
'Well that is something we should keep an eye on.' said Naruto as floated in front of one of the windows of the Hokage's office. Seeing Kakashi working on his laptop he knocked on the window. With a jump his old sensei turned to see him and Naruto could see him take a breath as he opened the window.
"Would it kill you to use the front entrance?" he questioned.
"This is faster." said Naruto floating himself in. The hokage just smiled under his mask
"Its good to see you Naruto." said Kakashi.
"Good to see you too Lord Hokage." said Naruto bowing to him in a flourishing manner.
"Please don't. A year has passed and I'm still having trouble with being called that." said Kakashi gesturing to the chair in front of the table.
"So what can I help you with Kakashi-Sensei?"
"Well as you know we are in the process of moving to the stars eventually. But from what I understand you are training your team as I once trained ours." said Kakashi stating the obvious.
"Yes. What is your point?" Naruto asked.
"My point is would you mind adding someone else to help train them?" asked Kakashi. That part caught Naruto by surprise.
"No but why would you want an instructor from this world to help me train the team?" Naruto asked.
"One thing that Tomar-Tu has told us that all worlds have in common is trade. Resources of just about any kind. What is one of ours besides what we have on our planet that most could probably get?"
"Combat." said Naruto answering the Hokage's question.
"Exactly. On top of that we can see what other martial art styles there besides our own. In case of the event we need to fight. Not to say that is our only option just the last one." said Kakashi. "In addition we can show off a bit what we can do."
"So in other words a cultural exchange of sorts." said Naruto. Kakashi nodded.
"Who did you have in mind?" asked Naruto already running the list of people that could assist him and Dinah.
"We are talking about taijutsu are we not?" Kakashi asked. Naruto frowned as his old sensei knew that.
It was then that the possibilities came down to one.
"He can be a bit weird though." said Naruto with a small smile.
"I'm sure you can manage." said Kakashi.
"Where is he?" said Naruto
"At the stadium where we hold the Chunin Exams. He's there with another old friend of yours hoping to settle an old score."
(Chunin Exam Stadium)
Naruto could hear the sounds of battle. As he got closer though he could hear the sounds of something hitting what he thought was sand.
He floated above to see two of his friends as he suspected fighting. One was Gaara of the Sand and the other was Rock Lee. He could also see that they had an audience with Shikamaru and Temari present in the stands.
Gaara was usually the calmest face on the battlefield as far as Naruto was concerned but today he was more than a little frightened. Reason being was his opponent going so fast that he could not see him except for like a green blur.
"Must have gone to the seventh inner gate to move this fast. Especially since Gaara is more powerful than the last time they fought." said Naruto floating down to where Shikamaru and Temari were shocking both of them.
"Damn it Naruto don't just float down so quiet like that!" said Temari. "I've got enough to worry about with Gaara facing Lee without just suddenly appearing!"
"Calm down I'm sorry." said Naruto putting his hands up in a placating manner. "So what are you doing here Shikamaru? Your shadow possession jutsu can't stop Lee's strength."
"I'm here for moral support for my girlfriend." replied Shika. Despite the situation Temari had a small smile from that before the arena shook. The three looked to see Gaara to seemingly cover himself in a ball of hardened sand. Almost like an inversion of Shukaku's shield given the shield like form on the front of it. Before the sand covered him Naruto could see the shell of Sand Armor that always seemed to be Gaara cracked and broken in more than a few places.
Lee on the other end of the shield was glowing green, face red, his eyes white as punched through the barrier inch by inch getting close to the main core.
"Let me guess this was Lee's idea." said Naruto looking to intervene if things got out of control which with Lee was a possiblity.
"Yeah he kept insisting and insisting upon this rematch. Said it would only be a friendly sparring session he said. I kept saying Gaara would not be interested but then he got him alone and my brother being such a polite fellow agreed to the idea." said Temari.
The crack they heard took them back to the battle. Or more accurately its end as Lee busts through the sand barrier that encases Gaara smashing him in the face. The sound of the attack echoing through the arena as the Kazekage is on the ground not quite unconscious but definitely exhausted bleeding from the mouth. Lee then powered down and saw that he was almost if not the same condition except for the fact that he was still standing.
"Gai-Sensei!" he yelled into the air. "You're training has finally allowed me to redeem myself!" he then looked down to Gaara and managed to calm himself down.
"Thank you for this chance Gaara. You have proven to be a most formidable opponent."
"Yes. Now can you please not try to kill the Kazekage. Or yourself for that matter. We don't need a war again after years of peace." said Naruto in a light tone but still some concern with Temari and Shikamaru helping her brother up.
"Its alright Naruto." said Gaara. "Lee has been asking for this rematch for some time. I figured it would be best to get it out of his system."
"Yes and again it is much appreciated." said Lee. "But what brings you here Naruto?"
"You actually." said the Lantern. "Kakashi-Sensei wants to begin a cultural exchange with other worlds. More specifically in this case the planet Earth for starters and you've been picked as the first "exchange student" I guess."
"Good idea but why Lee?" said Shikamaru.
"This is to be a martial arts kind of exchange. One that Lee is obviously well apt in. We can learn about different martial art styles with Earth being a good first place to begin this kind of cultural exchange with us learning from them and they learning something from us." said Naruto.
"Spoken like a true diplomat." said Temari. Naruto turned to Lee.
"So Lee are you interested in-"
"Yes!" said Lee jumping into the air exceedingly before winced and grasped his side from the injuries. "When do I leave?"
"I will come and pick you up when you've been looked at by Natu. And when you're injuries have healed obviously." said Naruto.
Lee then straightened up at the mention of the doctor's name.
"Lady Natu is the one who will examine me?" he asked in a quiet voice.
"You're damn right I am!" screamed the voice of Natu as she landed in front of the group with a thud glaring at Lee and Gaara but keeping her attention on Lee.
"You." she pointed at Gaara. "Are lucky you one of the leaders of your people."
"Lady Natu I can explain..." said Lee while wincing at the pain he was suffering now that the boost of power from the seventh seal of the Hidden Lotus had faded and the long known suffering of his body being pushed so far began.
"Save it Lee." she said surprising Naruto that she was on first name basis with his friend.
'Wonder how many times she's had to patch him after training sessions?' asked Kurama.
'Judging by her glare more than once.' Naruto responded. "You two know each other?" he decided to ask.
"This one was coming back from one of his training sessions in one of the worst states of physical exhaustion and abuse I have ever seen. So I decided to help with healing him. Thank whatever god you people worship that your healing techniques are some of the best I've seen which helped me with his recovery. And now here we are again with you being in the worst state yet."
"I had to push myself though to get through Gaara's defenses and this was the only to do so." Lee tried to explain. "My lady..."
"Save it." she said. "At least it kills two birds with one stone." she then turned to Naruto
"I will do a full check up on him to make sure he is space worthy Naruto. Despite the abuse he puts it through he is usually in good shape so the odds are in his favor."
"That's Natu. Let me know when he's ready." said Naruto. Natu glared as Temari helped keep Gaara standing.
"I will go with you to help Gaara." she turned to Shikamaru. "See you tonight." she then kissed him much to the genius embarrassment and enjoyment. Natu then produced a bubble around the group turning to Lee.
"You're lucky you happen to be a good patient."
And with that they were off.
Shikamaru braced for teasing from the blonde shinobi but all he saw from Naruto was him looking up as they flew away to the hospital.
"When was the last time Lee ever called a woman 'My Lady'?"
Shikamaru was puzzled for a moment before realizing the same thing.
"Well isn't that interesting." said Shikamaru with a smile.
It was then that Naruto's ring was starting to blink.
"I gotta take this." said Naruto looking to his ring.
"Naruto its Ganthet calling." said the voice of the kindly Guardian.
"What is it Ganthet?" Naruto asked worried on why he was being called by him.
"Would it be possible for you to meet with Hal and myself on Mogo?" asked Ganthet.
"Sure but why not Oa?" Naruto questioned.
"It would be best to keep what I have to say out of the council's ears. For now at least." said Ganthet.
"I'll be right there." said Naruto. From their the communication ended. "Looks like another reprieve from our annual game Shikamaru."
"Its alright. Next time." said Shikamaru. "But before you leave I got something from Iruka-Sensei that he wanted you to have back."
Naruto stood confused until he saw what Shikamaru presented in his hand.
"My ninja tool kit." said Naruto grabbing it with both hands. "Not that I don't appreciate the sentiment but my ring kinda covers me in weapons Shikamaru."
"Weapons yes. But what about medications or seals or anything else us ninja need?" asked the young Nara. "I get it, its not going to be you're biggest weapon but you are still a ninja. And you need all the options you can get."
What he said was true Naruto thought as he looked down at his tool kit. And with that thought he attached the took kit to his belt.
"Thanks Shikamaru." said Naruto "It doesn't let you off the hook though. And say thanks to Iruka-Sensei for me."
And with that he flew off into the air and into space.
"So looking forward to it." Shikamaru said sarcastically.
(Mogo)
Naruto was in full uniform as he landed on Mogo's surface.
"Welcome Naruto." said the voice of the planet.
"Thanks Mogo. Good to see you again." said Naruto. Immediately following him saying that he saw Ganthet and Hal Jordan float down to him.
"Hey kid. How's it going?" said Hal.
"Fine so far." said Naruto. "Can we get into why you wanted to meet with me on Mogo instead of on Oa."
"Figured it would be kinda obvious since the Betrassian Blitz that you needed to be away from Oa." said Hal. "The council has been more than a little interested as to how you managed to get there so fast and how you took the whole battalion of them along with two yellow lanterns."
"Hence the need to move you from Oa as soon as possible my boy." said Ganthet. "Unfortunately that might not be enough."
"What do you mean?" asked Naruto.
"Despite assurances the council is still investigating what happened during the Blitz. And I fear sooner or later they will learn out about you're chakra network and more about your own personal abilities." said Ganthet.
Naruto knew with the added emphasis that Ganthet put into his voice he was trying to subtly tell him about them finding out about Kurama and that he is a Jinchuriki. With that another question he needed to ask.
"Why did you really send me to Earth?"
Hal and Ganthet looked at each other.
"To be honest kid from my own and several other's experiences we don't exactly trust the council aside from Ganthet and Sayd. For my own part I don't always want the council to be involved with every decision that I make." said Hal.
"Makes sense. From what I gather it seems almost as if the Guardians, with their lack of emotion, either don't care, have their own agenda, or a combination of the two." said Naruto.
"Hence the reason we sent you to Earth. A planet containing some of the most powerful beings that even we the Guardians have ever seen. A place that could shield you if need be and if worse came worse be at your side." said Ganthet.
"So you wanted me to make allies then." said Naruto to which Ganthet nodded. "No offense Ganthet but the way you are talking makes me think you want me to prepare for war. Against your own kind. That isn't like you."
"I don't want a war Naruto. That's the last thing I want. But if such a day comes I feel better with you gathering your allies on Earth. As Hal said there are those among the Corps that have been suspicious of the council with reason after Scar's betrayal. At the same time there are those among the Corps that still believe in what it stands for and that the Guardian Council still upholds this. And concept that I fear might be vanishing or has vanished with the passage of time since we first founded the Green Lantern Corps millennia ago." Ganthet explained.
'I have to agree with Ganthet here kid.' said Kurama. 'Fact is we need to be prepared if such a time comes when the council might try to dissect you to ascertain your abilities.'
Much as Naruto loathe to admit it they were right. It was at this juncture that Hal touched his earpiece and Naruto could see his eyes widen under his mask.
"What is it?" Naruto asked.
"We need to get back to Earth now. Mount Justice fell under attack."
End Chapter.
I suck at updating. I will freely admit it. I can't stress how sorry I am that these chapters take this long. All I can say to you all is thank you and assure that this story is not going to be abandoned. Even if it takes forever there will be an ending though I'm hoping that it won't take that long. Please know that going forward.
Anyway thank you again for taking the time to read this chapter. I'm never truly happy with it but that's just me and I'm sorry for leaving a cliff hanger but there is a plan in place for the next one. Hope you all had a happy halloween and will see you all next chapter.