Seeing her brother sitting by himself with an expressionless mask, Temari felt the urge to walk toward him. He was sitting by their kitchen, alone, as he usually was. If he needed to vent, there was no one beside him to listen. Maybe that was why he went on a path of destruction. Those who stood before them in battle were always slaughtered. It became such a familiar experience for her that she no longer even blinked—and worryingly, some part of her had come to enjoy it.
When did she lose herself? In Konoha, she wouldn't have thought twice about brutalizing anyone. But here she was.
Temari sat across her younger brother. His eyes didn't turn to her. Nor did he even twitch to acknowledge her presence. The bowl in front of him was empty—cleaned out as if he'd been really hungry.
This was her beloved brother, and yet, she couldn't find the words to say to him. It was awkward but she was positively sure, Gaara didn't share her emotions. Kankuro wouldn't even make an effort. For now, he was busy enjoying working with his puppets and becoming Lord over those he had to train. At least, Lady Chiyo would straighten him up to ensure he didn't lose himself.
"How are things on your side?" Temari finally uttered her first words. Her voice a whisper, but she was loud enough for him to hear her. Those blank eyes of his fell on her. People usually flinched, but she did not—she held his cold stare.
"Someone was trying to kill me." He seemed amused.
Temari, on the other hand, didn't share any of his amusement. She knew things wouldn't be simple but to think in training, someone would try to kill him. Then again, it was the perfect chance to do it and then claim it was a training accident.
"Who?"
"I don't know his name."
"Did you report to Baki sensei?"
And make things worse? Gaara wasn't an idiot. He wanted to do better. When his assailant had shown his blood lust and intent to stab him through his throat, Gaara had wrestled with demons just to hold himself from killing the man. It would have been simple even. He only had to raise his hand and the man would've become a shower of bloodied sand.
"No."
"You have to. What if you get hurt?"
His invincibility was now a memory. There had been days he thought nobody could defeat him, let alone even harm him. But this was not the case. He could be harmed. Somebody could make him experience pain.
"If I report to him, the shinobi gets punished. The others will be wary and the training will not progress."
Temari frowned deeply. "But allowing such things to happen is just wrong." She insisted sharply.
She would go on to punish them herself if need be. Nobody was going to bully her brother, regardless of the past. That she was a bit unreasonable wasn't lost to her. Gaara was her brother. Being rational didn't fit in the agenda. Sibling love defied logic. But it seemed, parental love was something else. Then again, Temari thought her father had never truly seen Gaara has his son but a failure of an experiment.
"It's better this way." Gaara was dismissive in his response. "Naruto is going to join the training. We will see how things turn out."
As far as Temari knew, there was much the blond was going to fit into. It was like everything would be by his design. Yet, according to Baki, he wasn't really telling him what to do. It was nonetheless clear that if he issued orders, Baki would be forced to comply—and so would they. Whatever he wanted, Suna would gain greatly. She just hoped, it was not a gain to prepare them for hell.
Temari stared at Gaara, trying to figure out what he was thinking. But her mind was just blank. She only succeeded in inviting a headache.
An awkward silence filled the room. She thought the feeling was only known to her. Gaara seemed oblivious to her plight or maybe he just didn't care. Either way, being here was no longer tolerable. Baby steps, Temari reminded herself. She made this effort. The next was greeting each other with a smile in the morning. Then eating together in the evening. Maybe, she would also join his training exercises one day.
Fire Country
Jiraiya didn't need to ask if something was wrong with Tsunade. She looked as if she had a sleepless night. It could be the consequences of alcohol but given that he had a visitor last night, it wasn't without a possibility that something had happened the night before. And it worried him deeply.
The sun was still warming up; it was not the emotion he wanted to experience so early in the morning. The darkness that loomed over the Leaf didn't need anything to compound on it. It was already a threatening hell on its own. Anything that added to it was an overkill.
He glanced at Shizune. She looked just fine. Perhaps Tsunade was just suffering from a hangover.
"I thought you'd be gone by now." Tsunade said in a flat tone. She didn't bother to look at her fellow Sannin but kept her eyes on the table.
"I'll leave today." Report to Danzo and then prepare for the Sound. Without question, the country would be the first to fall. No doubt, Danzo also wanted the many secrets Orochimaru kept. His agents were surely ransacking the bases now before they went in to destroy everything. "You just need to look out because Danzo isn't going to be too happy.
"It isn't like he can do anything about it," Tsunade shrugged with indifference.
"Don't take it too casually, hime." Jiraiya warned in a dead serious tone. "You're not that naïve. You should know what he is capable of. I wouldn't even be surprised if he hires mercenaries to come after you."
"I can protect myself."
Jiraiya shook his head and then let out a sigh of frustration. There was just no winning. He couldn't convince her to love him. And now, he couldn't convince her to return home even when their sensei was dead. Didn't he also want someone who could listen to him? He'd done something their sensei had repeatedly failed to do.
He smiled bitterly and then spoke. "Well, this might be the last time I see you. We're going to be very busy. With war, anything can happen. And I hope you take care of yourself, hime."
Tsunade felt something stir in her heart but she remarkably controlled the emotion. The heavy tone in which her friend spoke made her realize he was dead serious. Truly, there was no guarantee he would survive another war. And it seemed he was certain Danzo was leading Konoha to war. She didn't want to think about it nor face the reality that would be if he too died.
"Tired of living already?" Tsunade settled for saying so, with contempt.
"It isn't that I'm tired, but anything is possible." Jiraiya conceded. Shizune said the next words that blindsided him, leaving him speechless for a couple of seconds.
"Itachi Uchiha attacked us last night."
"What?" His dangerous eyes narrowed toward the black haired woman. He'd sensed something was wrong. Even last night when Naruto spoke to him, his gut had been sending him warning signs. "What do you mean attack? You look just fine?"
"He wanted something," Tsunade said with a slight shake of her head. She did not say what the Uchiha want. "I'm surprised you couldn't tell he was in Town."
"I can't see everything." Jiraiya replied with frustration. "Besides, Naruto was with me last night. I suppose he was keeping me company. I shouldn't trust him," the Sannin said with a nod of his head. "What did he want?"
"Nothing important," Tsunade replied with a shake of her head. "How is Minato's son and someone like Itachi connected?"
"I don't know. But Naruto left Konoha around the same time. He has stated he owed much to the Uchiha," Jiraiya said, eyes peering into Tsunade trying to figure out what the Uchiha wanted from her. "Any person who comes after you wouldn't be after anything aside from your skills…" he said with a deep frown. "Is he sick?"
"Yes."
"But why would he come to you? You wouldn't help him willingly. He is a notorious criminal wanted in Konoha."
"I'm the best there is, apparently," Tsunade said in a tired voice. "If he came here with Naruto and they are working together, don't you think you have a problem with Sunagakure?"
Naruto obviously worked with Itachi and the fact that the blond had turned to Suna could possibly mean even Itachi was involved. The Uchiha was a powerful shinobi and if he joined the ranks of the Hidden Sand, it was just going to cause problems.
"As far as I know, Itachi is a member of the mercenary group called the Akatsuki. At this stage, it is fair to say Naruto is also a member of the organization. If they are the ones behind Naruto's move to Suna, it is a problem." Jiraiya said in a serious tone. "I'll have to dig more about them. There is nothing to conclude they are connected to Suna, but we can't rule out anything."
River Country
It bothered Naruto that Itachi wouldn't tell him what happened with Tsunade. More precisely, how he managed to get her to help him. There hadn't been any flares of chakra last night and if that had happened, Jiraiya would have thrown the bottles he was drinking right at his face and then dash toward the source of the chakra. He wouldn't have complained either way.
Given the Uchiha's expression, it was just impossible to tell if he was pleased or not—nothing changed. His displeasure over Itachi's refusal to divulge the details wasn't hidden bit it was simply brushed aside. As a result, he was forced to stop frustrating himself with attempts to unearth what transpired and just stared toward the direction of the Sand.
He was sitting on a boulder, just in front of an entrance to one of the Akatsuki's hideout. Itachi sat a across him, knee raised, and left hand hanging over his cloak. That expressionless mask of his had returned tenfold. But he appeared to be deep in thought.
"Are you going back to Sunagakure?"
Naruto nodded. "Yes. There is much work ahead of me."
"You're going to help them become a stronger village. Konoha isn't going to allow what happened just be a memory. A battle in the future is given—"
"As long as Danzo remains Hokage," Naruto interjected. "But yes, there is a chance of a great battle between Suna and Konoha. I'm aware it is in conflict with your desires, but if Suna is threatened, I'll protect it. Even from you."
"You sound like you want to become a citizen of Suna."
"Yes… I want to try. You have a home you love dearly. I want to have that as well. I believe, once I have that, I'll feel truly alive in this world." Naruto had a long expression across his face as he replied, his tone a bit thoughtful.
The idea was truly exciting. He contained the blood rush. But he imagined walking along the streets of Suna, people waving at him with happy smiles, appreciating his existence and efforts. And maybe, there would be someone he loved walking beside him. Then, could he truly say he didn't want to depart from this earth. And Madara's plans be damned. Of course, knowing that man, he was going to attempt to bring him despair. Honestly, Naruto dreaded that reality.
"I've misunderstood you," Itachi admitted. He was willing to admit. Naruto was cold, ruthless and had a twisted view of justice. But who didn't? He did wonder if the blond would even be able to understand that kind of love he wanted. "I'm going to go to Konoha and check on Sasuke."
"No, doubt, have a little chat with Danzo."
"How are you going to take Suna's Jinchuriki when you want to belong to that village? Our mission means that we are going to become enemies of the Elemental nations—"
As if on cue, the familiar black vortex materialized Madara in between him and Itachi. The man's body fully appeared out of the pocket dimension and be landed gracefully on the ground. He didn't immediately say anything but just stood still. Maybe he wanted to see if he would be attacked.
"I've been looking for the two of you."
"We're here," Naruto replied with indifference. "Has something occurred?"
"There is going to be a change of plans," Obito said, looking at Itachi through the corner of his eyes. "Once the organization is ready, you two will no longer be partners. I have prepared a new partner for you, Itachi and Naruto's partner will soon be prepared."
"Well, that is going to be interesting," Naruto smiled. "Who am I going to partner?"
"You'll find out when we get ready. Your first target will be Suna's Jinchuriki. But this must be done quietly. We will be then move to hit Kumogakure. Pain will capture the Eight-Tails while you capture the Two-Tails. Sasori and Deidara will move to capture the three tails. Team Itachi and Kakuzu's team will move to Iwa's Jinchuriki. This must be done simultaneously. We do not want to risk them arming to stop us. We will lose valuable members if that happens."
"That would leave the Six and Seven Tails," Naruto said.
"The Six Tails is without a village. And the Seven belongs to a small village. I'll captured it," Obito replied.
Naruto nodded. "It is a pity, it seems I must cherish my time in Suna while it lasts."
"Who is going to be my partner?" Itachi asked, speaking for the first time since Madara showed up.
He replied by activating his Jutsu. A black swirl starting from his right eye formed from thin air, pulling out a huge figure from the space. Within seconds, the figure appeared and landed in front of him.
"Hoshigake Kisame…" Naruto said with surprise. He then laughed coldly. Obviously, Madara wanted to break up their partnerships in case they were cooking something treasonous. And since the man already said Sasuke would be taken from Danzo, he had a feeling the Uchiha would become his partner. Well, at least all the things that were supposed to have been said were said already between him and Itachi. "Ah, it seems you'll be having an interesting journey, Itachi." The blond jumped from the boulder and landed down without a sound. "I must go and prepare for my betrayal. It is going to be such a joy to watch their reactions when I betray them. Well, at least they'll be in a better position." He said that, and walked away from the three.
Kisame faced Itachi and grinned. He thought, he and the Uchiha were not so different. But he did wonder just how powerful his new partner was.
Madara left without another word, leaving just Itachi and Kisame.
"I'm heading toward Konoha. You can follow if you please."
"What are we going to do there?" Kisame asked curiously.
Itachi did not reply.
Sunagakure
The security around the village appeared sufficient. The village's location meant it was also difficult to sneak in, unless you came in through the gates as a civilian. Naruto thought he could pull off something like that. For shinobi, the problem was concealing chakra and having the right papers. If you were suspicious, you'd have people tailing you around until departure.
Even though he didn't go through the gates, nobody really bothered him with questions. A kunoichi with a mask just greeted him pleasantly before walking past him, continuing with her duties. It was now obvious, there was probably no shinobi who didn't know him in this village. Well, it made things easier and ensured Baki wouldn't have a revolt for outsourcing leadership decisions to the outside world.
Naruto went straight to the Kazekage Tower. Baki wasn't in the office. He was told the man was in a meeting. Naruto waited in the office for about an hour. He nearly grew impatient and went away but he held on and the man returned. He looked worn out as if he hadn't been sleeping in days. Even his smile was weary. He slouched behind his desk and let out a long breath with his eyes closed.
"Internal politics," Baki said with a shake of his head. "And now there is the unseen hand of the Feudal Lord…" he stared at Naruto.
Naruto folded his hands across his chest. "That is normal, no?"
"It seems you purposely kept just two from the Council and let everyone run amok just to keep me on my toes."
Naruto laughed. "That's a conspiracy," he said in a dismissive tone.
"You were happy to use your Sharingan on the Council but not on the Feudal Lord." Baki's stare sharpened. His eyes were trying to lift the mask on Naruto but he failed miserably. It made him frown deeply. His inability to read the blond gave him nightmares. Especially, since the blond seemed content with just watching things from the side lines.
"Circumstances permitted it. I couldn't just kill everyone. And those two needed to be witnesses to everything or else there wouldn't be legitimacy. There is no saying the villagers would have begged you to become Kazekage. There are some greedy people who'd have jumped to the opportunity."
"And those people are trying to make my life difficult."
"Part of the challenge," Naruto replied with a small smile. "I envy you, a little. Challenges as this make life a little more interesting and sharpen the mind while helping you discover the true nature of men."
"Men is vile, greedy and self-serving. You don't need to get surprised over anything," Baki said so as a matter of fact. His response elicited a cold laughter from Naruto. He ignored it and spoke again. "How did you get the Feudal Lord to support us? He obviously has his own ideas and wishes to have more influence in the village."
"You don't need to worry about that. The important thing is that taps have opened and you can invest. Missions from the Feudal Lord will keep us busy. And his money means we can do other things," Naruto said.
Once more, Baki sighed. He wasn't satisfied with the answer but he wasn't going to drag the issue. He didn't have the energy nor the desire for it.
"Did you do whatever you wanted?"
"Yes. I can devote my time to helping Suna for the next couple of years. Konoha isn't going to attack us now given its status. We can use the opportunity to grow our strength." Naruto cocked his head slightly. "Have you sent out teams for Intelligence gathering?"
"No."
"Are you serious?"
"Suna doesn't have that kind of people."
"You're a Great Nation. What have you been doing over the past years? No, scratch that, this is the same village that thought it could defeat Konoha simply because Orochimaru dangled a carrot," Naruto said in a cold voice, his face expressing disappointment. "You must have someone who is capable."
"There are a few a I can think of…"
"Disappointing."
True or not, Baki felt he needed to defend his village. "Times have not been kind to us. We've suffered greatly and have been on the verge of economic collapse on a few occasions."
"Incompetence of leaders. Doesn't matter anyway. I'll speak to Sasori and see if he can't offer some of his agents. We need to have people in all of the Great Nations to see what is happening. Being blind will leave us vulnerable."
"I'll arrange things… we do have a budget now," Baki conceded. "I have sent a message to Iwagakure about opening a dialogue with them. We have always had some skirmish with them and are not exactly on friendly terms. I want to keep them occupied and stop them from attacking us in case we have to face Konoha in war."
"I doubt anything fruitful will come out of it. But we shall see." He was saying so, but he knew the outcome because Iwa had no other choice in the matter.
"I want to change the relationship with the River Country. We depend too much on imports to survive. I don't want Konoha sabotaging our trade with the River. We will look to other nations."
"Trade and politics, I don't need to know. You're the Kazekage, do as you please. But if you need help, I'll help. Military power however, I'll restructure and ensure it is at top level over the next couple of years.
"Everyone must prepare. I'll help everyone who needs the help. Even Jonin must improve their strength. We will have war games every six months. While also holding fighting competitions every three months to determine the strongest Genin, Chunin and Jonin. For this, a coliseum must be built. We can sell the tickets to make some money. This shall be in the name of competition and encouraging growth. Once we are were we are, we will hold those games once every year. It will become a tradition for this village. For now, we need them to be motivated and need something to uplift the village."
Baki was impressed. Truly, this was going to herald a new era for Sunagakure. Naruto indeed had ideas and they could work. The blond wasn't some naïve child. He was realistic and had power to back up his words.
"What about the war games?"
"Champion games will have to be friendly, but war games don't need to be as such. I'm thinking of selecting battalions go into the desert for a week long war games. They'll be fighting against each other. Each battalion with a commander. Wars are not simply won by battle powers alone. Tactics win battles. They need hard experience and their minds to be sharpened. You'll need to develop relations with neighboring nations to permit us to do our games in their nations. We can't just prepare in the desert. We must also be familiar with other terrains."
"If we have over two thousand men in war games in the River, Konoha isn't going to like it. The same for nations neighboring the Rock."
Naruto shrugged. "Their problem."
"Unless they start applying pressure on those nations."
"We just have to be secretive about it. By the time they find out about it, we're already in the games."
Baki shook his head. "I've already made some plans of my own."
"I wont interfere with those, but everything I've said must be done. Allowing the small nations to host us improves our relationship with them. And we will attract their business." Naruto became thoughtful. "It is difficult to build roads in the desert because they'll end up being submerged in the sand. But we need to create better routes that makes it possible for merchants and tourists to reach the village.
"I'm mindful, creating such routes will give the enemy an access path. But plans can be made to turn those routes into burial grounds should the enemy opt to use them. We can also use this to create an artificial river bank that flows water into Suna."
"How do you plan on doing that?"
"The I happen to have a good relationship with the Leader of the Land of Storms. Amegakure is surrounded by a huge lake. It is constantly raining, so, there shouldn't be any problems. We can use the Storm and River as feeders. We'll create two dams then run the waters from the dams into small river banks. This will make it possible for farming.
"Earth Jutsu is effective in digging tunnels. For water feeding, we will dig underground water tunnels from the Rain and River country. Both the tunnels were feed the dams. Amegakure has the material to create pipes that can carry the water. But we need to create the dams at places were the storms are less frequent. Creating structures as the ones that surround the village will work out. Routes can be built in similar fashion, but not like tunnels. We'll just dig and create thick walls that can withstand storms."
Baki was silent for a couple of seconds, absorbing everything Naruto was saying. "There is no shinobi in this village who has that much chakra to carry such tasks."
"I'm around. But you'll need money to buy the pipes from Amegakure. If we do this, there will be no shortage of water, and we can farm. Albeit, in few places. But we can still do it."
"The pipes being underground means they are given sufficient protection from sabotage."
"Yes."
"This is something that will take years to do."
"I know. But we can do it. If earth users are available in the village, I can always transfer some of the Kyubi's chakra to them. This will give them enough juice to go by."
The Following Day
Gaara stared expressionlessly at the training field. This had become his hiding place, away from the stares and glares. There was peace in this place. Few people graced his presence. He was the loose cannon people avoided. He was treated as a ticking nuclear bomb. People twitched in front of him as if he would snap. He didn't snap, he just mercilessly buried people with his sand.
But with training, he saw more faces. Some with clear intentions to harm him and a handful with genuine attempts to train. He'd learned, no matter what you did, not everyone would hate you.
Beside him, Naruto was standing motionlessly, staring into the above. They were supposed to begin their training—and Gaara was really looking forward to it. Suna's future depended on his strength. Without his power, the enemies would trample on this village he'd sworn to protect.
"Have you ever fought without Shukaku's power?"
"My entire fighting style depends on using sand." Gaara replied blankly.
"Hmm…" Naruto was silent for a couple of seconds. He would really have to study Fuinjutsu. He wasn't sure he would get anywhere but he still needed to study that forbidden jutsu. "There is a simple Jutsu one can use to cut off the flow of chakra. Your training in earnest will begin that way."
"Is that even necessary?"
"No. I just want to bully you... I want to say. But you must prepare to fight without that Bijuu of yours. You never know what happens tomorrow."
"As long as I'm alive, the power will be with me."
Naruto just smiled. But before he could say anything, five people appeared before them.
When Naruto turned to face them, Hiroshima felt his chest clench and his mouth become dry. It was not a look that welcomed them. In fact, it was the kind of look you were given after disturbing an important meeting. Worse, it was between two Jinchuriki. There had been a tale told within the corners of Suna that Gaara was invincible. And now, there was another Jinchuriki who stood beside him. If Baki were to be believed, the blond was much more frightening than Gaara. No one in Suna would readily believe this. They'd seen Gaara do things impossible. Just being in his presence took all guts.
Hiroshi honestly thought the red-haired was a spoiled child with no self-control. Ironically, the power of that brat was what kept Konoha from invading them. No one in the village was going to acknowledge this fact. It was better to just think of Gaara was an uncontrollable monster that could destroy them one day.
"You're not a famous person," Naruto with amusement, his eyes narrowed toward the corner, looking at Gaara. "I can sense the killing intent from one of them. Hidden, but just barely."
"I've not done anything to be famous," Gaara replied with indifference.
"I suppose," Naruto's eyes took in the group of five. "How can I assist you?"
"We were sent by Baki-sama."
Naruto raised an eye brow in curiosity. "I don't remember talking to him about something like this. I already have a full plate." He sighed deeply. "Why?"
"We're to be trained to become protectors of the Kazekage or any important figures of the village while they are out on a diplomatic mission."
Naruto frowned. He chose these people? Their chakra levels were no more than Chunin. It was a death wish to have such people assigned to such a position. Worse, their contempt for Gaara would mean he had to indulge their emotional throttles. Well, he could use them as an experiment to see if it was possible to put toppings of roses on Gaara's name.
"Naruto." He decided to introduce himself.
"Hiroshi; team leader." He looked just over twenty years old. But his eyes were old. His body was huge, making him a little imposing.
"Daiki, vice leader." He was slim and the tallest in the group. Like everyone, he was dressed in a standard Suna Chunin gear. There was caution in his voice, and his brown eyes were on Gaara. They were not filled with hatred but fear.
Akira was the only female member of the team. She was a beautiful young woman. She couldn't be over twenty years older. She seemed to be just two years older than Temari. Her expression was neutral and Naruto couldn't get a read on her. He figured, she was probably the only first person he would get along with.
Aoi and Haruto were the oldest of the group and they were the ones who were leaking killing intent.
Naruto figured Hiroshi was the leader because of his personality. He seemed like a man who didn't hold back. Daiki was the cautious type who'd think twice before even blinking. Akira was level headed, curious and genuinely seemed like a decent person. The other two didn't seem like good people. In Naruto's eyes, they were bitter fools who were stuck in their ways.
"I'll be with you for the next couple days to decide the kind of training you'll require," Naruto said in a flat tone. "For now, attack me, with everything you have. I want to show you all just how weak you are. And in order to accomplish your missions, you must do better."
Haruto was offended and it showed on his expression.
"We—" He wasn't given an time to speak as Naruto suddenly flashed in front of him in the blink of an eye. A high knee collided with his stomach, bringing sharp pain across his body. He let out a muffed cry. His pain did not stop there as Naruto's right hand, glowing with chakra while flat out in a cutting motion, crashed onto his torso. He was forced to jump back, holding onto his twisting guts.
Akira and Hiroshi flanked Naruto the second Haruto leapt into the air. The former jabbed a kunai toward his lower back while the latter twisted in mid-air, trying to deliver a Crescent kick.
Naruto disappeared from their view in a blur. He moved so fast that neither noticed he was gone until he materialized behind Akira. He gave her a gentle push. The slight movement caused her to fall toward the path of her captain's attack. The kick collided with her temple, sending her flying away.
Naruto used the momentary shock in Hiroshi to lunge at the man. He grabbed the man's retreating right leg, and then channeled lightning chakra through his hands. The chakra coursed through Hiroshi, causing him to cry painfully. Naruto stopped before there could be any damage and allowed the man to hit the ground in a thud while twitching.
He then leapt toward Gaara knowing no one would attack him. His eyes turned to Daiki who hadn't attacked. "You did not move because?"
"It was better to observe. We know close to nothing about your skills." Daiki replied in a measured tone. There was steel in his voice that hadn't been there before. "It would have been better of one or two of us attacked first to see how you moved."
Then his profile of the man was indeed correct. Naruto thanked his experience for being able to tell such things.
"Battles are not only won by power alone. I'm starting to like you," Naruto said with a smile. "I'll give you a two minutes to think of a strategy. I won't use Ninjutsu or Genjutsu. I want you to think of your best… then I'll crush you."
"That's not very encouraging."
"I don't want to encourage you."
Kazekage Residence
Even at nightfall, the soil repelled the heat it absorbed during the day. There was no breeze. He was told, occasionally, a cold one swept through the village. Naruto adopted a 'to see is to belief approach.' The daily rain in Amegakure was tolerable because he immersed in it occasionally. Soon enough, his body would adjust. But maybe he was just peaky about the environment that surrounded him.
His blood was warm but it wouldn't boil. There seemed to be a passing storm outside. The building stood firm. He could just feel the sounds of airwaves crashing into building. Such conditions made it perfect for training Wind manipulation. You didn't even have to exhaust mental capacities for imagination of new Jutsu—nature was an inspiration.
Scrolls were spread across the floor in front of him. The room was empty of any furniture. Some of the scrolls contained village secrets. Baki hadn't resisted with handing over the keys. If he does succeed, this was going to be the biggest achievement in his life. Maybe when he does meet his mother in the after life, she would be proud.
Baki was handling politics and village finances. Naruto would busy himself with military. That was the only game he knew how to play. He could reason with politicians but he was used to murder than simply using his words.
The door crept open. He lifted his head and faced the intruder. Temari wasn't the quiet person. She voiced her opinions with the same lethality of her wind jutsu. She wasn't some weak girl. Naruto thought she was emotionally stronger than her siblings. But of course, it didn't mean intelligence. Gaara was by far the smartest.
"You don't even lock the door while handling village secrets?" Those the first words that escaped from Temari's sharp mouth as soon as she entered the room.
"They are now my secrets. I own Suna."
"You don't own us." Temari replied defiantly.
"How can I assist you, Temari?"
"Your living arrangements, for starters. We need to find a permanent solution for you. But that will be up to your preference."
Naruto was silent for a couple of seconds. He hadn't even thought of such a mundane issue. "For now, I'll stay here. I'll get a house for myself."
"Baki said Suna will pay for everything if you wanted your own place."
"How generous."
"Says the person who just said they own Suna." Temari replied sarcastically.
"I said that in jest," Naruto waved his right hand dismissively. "I'm not that broke. I'll handle my expenses. Anything else?"
"Why does it sound like you're in a rush to get rid of me?" She asked that with an expression that clearly showed she took offense.
"You can see what is in front of me. And tomorrow, I must be early because Baki has piled on something for me. I want to go through everything and make proper plans before tomorrow."
"What is the rush?"
"You're seriously asking me that question?"
Temari had the decency to look embarrassed. But she quickly hid her embarrassment. "What of my training?"
"We will get to it. What do you want to improve on?"
"How far can I improve?"
"Everyone has limits. Chakra is often the limit. But also skill can be a limit. Not everyone can become a Sannin with enough training. But everyone can become hardened like Lee from Konoha with enough training. I told you needed to be able to fight without your fan. For the first year, you will not use it. Forget you even own it."
"That's not going to happen."
Naruto laughed. "I have no problems with burning it. But you have time to think about it. I'll be busy rearranging military ranks. I suppose I shall call myself the Head Ninja, or perhaps Jonin Commander. Unlike other ceremonial ranks, I'll hold actual power."
"You didn't waste time grabbing power."
"No."
Temari glared at him. "The fact that you readily admit that bothers me."
Following Day
Hiroshi was surprised to find Naruto already in the training ground. The appointed time had yet to arrive. The sun had already set, no longer illuminating the sky with a reddish wave. It wasn't windy and didn't seem like there would be dust storms. It made it a perfect morning. A conscious decision had been taken to come in early. If there was anything the blond showed them yesterday, it was just he was brutal merciless. He still felt some aching because of that beating.
But, it was the thing that made it obvious why Baki trusted him. The man was transparent in the blond's role within the village. Perhaps it was an attempt to rally everyone together and ensure there would be no eyes of suspicion that may threaten Suna's future. Unity was fundamental now more than ever for their survival.
"You're in early," Hiroshi commented walking up to Naruto, who sat in a meditative position.
Naruto glanced at the man for a second and then closed his eyes. "It's always best to be early. Once the sun is out in full force, I'm afraid I'll be lazy."
"You'll get used to it." Hiroshi encouraged.
"I wonder about that. But I should. Humans have the ability to adapt," Naruto shook his head and then stood up, facing the men before him. "I have not properly introduced myself. I should do so. We're going to work together. It is much better if we know each other well. Otherwise, this will not reach the potential it should," the blond then fell silent for a couple of seconds, his eyes moving through the group. "Naruto Uzumaki. I was born to the Minato Namikaze and Kushina Uzumaki. As the name suggests, I am of the Uzumaki clan. I am also a Jinchuriki, just like Gaara. We can know other details as we move."
"Understood," Hiroshi replied. They'd already introduced themselves yesterday. He didn't see it necessary to repeat.
Still, who'd thought the son of a man once famous as the Yellow Flash would rebel against Konoha and turn over to them? He really didn't care about it all—he was just happy the blond was on their side. Strength was what they needed. Without it, they would be crushed by other Great Nations.
"We're going to train in the desert. I'll be the with you once a week. Other days, you'll be with my clone. I need to do my own training," Naruto said.
"You're already power." Akira said with a stare.
Naruto laughed. "Nothing compared to powers out there. You will always measure yourself in terms of what is around you. You people have become used to mediocrity. But see nothing wrong with it because everyone is mediocre."
"That's harsh," Haruto said with a stare. He felt insulted by Naruto's words.
Naruto just shrugged. "But the truth. You remove Baki-san and Gaara in this village and there is nothing left," Naruto paused for a moment and then asked. "By the way, what are your thoughts on Gaara," He asked curiously. "I want your honest thoughts."
"A murderous brat."
"Scary."
"He is blood thirsty. I've never seen him smile. He just kills people and glares murderously. There isn't anyone who doesn't fear him… and the thing inside of him. He has lost control many times. We're always afraid he'll go out of control again."
This was going to be a mountain too troublesome. Had he remained in Konoha, he'd been forced to a similar path—soldiering on to try to win the villagers over. If not for Danzo, there wouldn't be a need. No, if not for their stupidity, there wouldn't be a need.
"You're quick to express your thoughts."
"You said you wanted to truth." Hiroshi replied with a shrug—and a small smile on his lips. "You're not going to tell him, are you?"
"Nah," Naruto waved his right hand, grinning a bit. "He heard you… He is right behind you." The five twirled around in fear to look at Gaara but he was no where to be seen. Naruto just laughed and turned away. "Come."
"Nearly pissed myself." Aoi said, his heart thumping. "Where are we going?"
"To the desert. We're going to survive whatever the desert throws at us."
"That doesn't sound pleasant."
Training wasn't supposed to be pleasant. If they were going to change things, they needed to suffer. "Well, be prepared to suffer. We will all suffer for the next couple of years."
Hiroshi felt some discomfort just by hearing Naruto's words. There was nothing sinister in his tone or face, but he still worried they would be put through hell. He winced at the future pain but comforted himself in the idea that this was all for the sake of Sunagakure.
A week later
For the past week and a couple of days, Naruto returned to the house bruised and worn out. Some days, he just bathed and went to sleep. This house was like a hotel for him. She didn't even sense when he left earlier in the morning. She figured, he departed while she rode the train from the dream land. Temari had found herself standing in front of his door on two occasions and each time, she walked away without knocking. What could she say? He hadn't come to her for the training. She'd asked Gaara and there was nothing. He seemed too busy with others and himself that he didn't have time for them.
If a person as powerful as him beat himself up for training, what about them? Surely, there were more powerful monsters out there.
"Should I knock for you?"
Temari was startled. She nearly jumped when Kankuro spoke. She turned to face him as she stood in the passage, once more, standing in front of Naruto's door. This time, she held a plate of food with her.
Seeing a smirk on Kankuro's face, she glared at him to hide her embarrassment.
"Don't look at me like that. I'm just trying to help."
"Do I look like I need your help?" Temari replied sharply.
Kankuro realized this wasn't going to be fun for him if he continued. Temari may as well hurl the plate on his face. He raised both hands. "Good night, sister."
Temari didn't reply to him. He was obviously enjoying his role. She really didn't pay much attention to his training but she heard he was going over the top. With Lady Chiyo around, he was also learning new things.
She glanced the food. She usually left it in the dinner table. Every morning, it would be eaten. He'd only eaten with them once. She considered whether she should return the table. It was late anyway and she doubted she would be welcomed. She just wanted an excuse to talk to him.
While she wrestled internally, the door slowly crept open. There was no one. It only opened partially. She hesitated for a moment before knocking once as she pushed the door open. There was no response to her knock. When she entered, Naruto was sitting in a meditative posture just beside his bed, bare chested. She stared at him for a moment, noting, he kept his eyes closed and didn't even twitch at her presence. Young, but his muscles seemed tone—as someone who did heavy physical exercises.
She turned to her right; there was a small study table. There were three scrolls and papers lined up. She placed the plate there and pulled the chair before facing her housemate.
"Join me."
His words came quick. Temari hesitated for a moment before standing up. She walked over to him and sat down, folding her legs and then holding her hands together in a ram seal, as he did.
"Close your eyes." Temari did not. "I'm not going to attack you sexually."
Temari sneered. "I'd castrate you."
With his eyes closed, Naruto managed a small smile but didn't respond to her threat. "Close your eyes." This time, it was not a request but an instruction Temari felt compelled to comply with. "You've never done this before, have you?"
"No." There was nothing but darkness and maybe some images she'd rather not see. Yet, his presence in front of felt like a bright fire.
"Do you know where your Tenketsu points are?"
"No."
Naruto gave a slight shake of his head. "Open your eyes."
Temari did so, a bit too happily. When she did, Naruto's potent chakra was visible to the naked eye. Its oppressing aura made her want to get up and walk away. It was calmness of it that made her stay rooted to the spot. It quickly disappeared as if was never even there.
"Monks know this better than anyone. Meditation makes you patient and calm. It teaches you discipline and self-control. I mainly meditate for mental stimulation and replenishing my chakra…" Naruto said, his voice quiet. His eyes still did not open.
While he didn't say anything, Temari took it as an instruction to close her eyes once more. "Is this what you do everyday?"
"Yes and no." Naruto replied. "Visualize the chakra inside your body. Feel and sense it. See nothing but your entire chakra path inside of your body."
"Hard to do when you can't see it."
"The chakra pathways are same to all humans."
"I already told you I don't study that." Temari replied with a hint of frustration.
"Just do it."
Naruto didn't say anything else. Even as Temari tried to say something, he just ignored her. She grew frustrated at her inability to do as he said and her chakra started leaking out. She quickly regained control and focused on stabilizing it. That was when it hit her; stabilizing her chakra helped her feel it. She closed her eyes in earnest this time, and shut the world around her. Before Jutsu was done, you kneaded chakra from within and then released it through a certain point. She did that over and over again. As a result, her chakra glowed around her.
Temari didn't know how many minutes passed. Or maybe it was hours. But when her eyes snapped open, and the world around her became alive once more, Naruto was sitting on the edge of the bed, legs folded, looking down at her with an amused expression.
It was on reflex, but Temari glared at him. "What is so funny?"
"Don't mind it. You grew frustrated and then learned to channel those emotions back up. Some people perform mental stimulation by thinking deeply about the things that make them angry over and over again, while performing a logical surgery on such emotions. Some visualize battles against opponents. And some, just think about peace…" Naruto smiled. "This is the sort of exercise that Gaara requires to regain control. How do you feel?"
Temari didn't immediately reply. She tried standing up and winced as her muscle felt tense. She stretched a bit and then walked over to the table. She sat on the chair and then replied.
"Bad," she said mildly. This was the first time Temari was seeing him like this; his hair was a little wild. The golden pieces seemed to be untamed and despite how he looked when clothed, his chest was toned. He obviously did a lot of physical training. He looked human now.
"Unashamedly ogling me." Naruto said with amusement.
Temari looked away while hissing disdainfully. "Yeah, right." She said with contempt. "How are things?"
"So far so good. I've developed a good training schedule and learned of how much time they require to recover. I'm Uzumaki, I recover quickly but they have their own pace. So, I've pushed them to their limits and seen how long they need to recover and adjusted the schedule."
"Then, why did you look so beat when you returned?"
"Oh… I sometimes fight my clones with my eyes closed to build up reflex. Your instinct in battle sees more than your eyes. But such a sense is sharpened through battle and being in dangerous situations."
Temari knew that. Admittedly, it never resulted in the need for training. But when has she ever faced a shinobi they couldn't defeat? They had always thought that Gaara was unbeatable and when Naruto brought him down by simply glancing at him, her world was turned upside down. It shouldn't have been possible. But the reality defying event occurred and she was left baffled, unable to comprehend how it came to be.
"What did you want anyway?"
The question snapped Temari out of her thoughts. At this point, she'd forgotten about the food she brought and really couldn't say what she wanted to say. She racked her brain trying to find something else to say that wouldn't give her away.
"I was speaking with Baki sensei. He said Iwagakure agreed to the proposal to discuss things," Temari said in a hurried tone. She quickly got hold of herself and kept a straight face.
Naruto raised an eye brow in curiosity. "Couldn't that have waited? Do you know what time it is?"
"You're never around. I was afraid you'd be gone by morning."
"Tomorrow is recovery day."
"Do I know your schedule?"
"No need to be so threatening," Naruto said with a wave of his right hand. "I suppose I must partake in it. It is fine. When Baki wants me, I'll be available."
"I'm glad." There was no smile nor happiness in Temari. She said that because she had no alternative response. She fell silent, unable to say anything else.
Naruto wasn't this silent and awkward. He was very chatty whenever they were together and now, he was just silent, not even looking at her. She thought he was making her miserable on purpose.
"I'll leave you to rest." She suddenly said and left in a hurry.
Naruto just watched her and then fell on the bed. 'What do you think she wanted?' he asked the Bijuu within him.
'Do I look like I care?'
'Don't be like that.' Naruto sighed. 'Well, whatever it is, it is something I'll eventually hear. I just hope it is nothing bad. I'd hate to be strict with them. It is better when they feel the freedom to express themselves and do whatever they want. Without this freedom, their potential becomes limited.'
Kurama didn't reply.
End of Chapter