I Don't Own Naruto, Any Other Anime/Manga or Its Characters.
All Characters Appearing In This Work Are Fictitious. Any Resemblance To Real Persons, Living Or Dead Is Purely Coincidental.
A Gathering of Leaders.
A/N: I would like to thank all my loyal fans for helping me pass the 100 favourites mark. Thank you for your contribution.
It had now been almost 2 weeks since Tsunade had returned to the village and the Genin were out of the hospital and had gone back home. Neji had also finally gotten out of the hospital and was recovering at home under the watchful eyes of Tenten and Hinata. Hanabi Hyuuga had also returned home and found the atmosphere very different to what she left it.
She also noticed the obvious absence of the Hyuuga Elders and despite many attempts to learn what had happened she was rebuffed with a common response; the truth shall be revealed when you reach the rank of Chunin. What was also weird was that her father Hiashi was meeting frequently with key members of both the Hyuuga main and branch house.
Many of the older shinobi in village could sense a change in the winds; a pattern seemed to be forming within the village. It had been two weeks since the Hokage had arrived and the village stabilized but still the Hokage did not lift the martial law. Only Shinobi of Chunin rank or higher were allowed to roam through the village. What was also odd was that the Anbu presence within the village was obvious. They no longer hid themselves completely. It was if to say: we are watching you.
In the Hokage's office
Tsunade was discussing something very important with Kakashi and some of her Anbu shinobi. "I want to hold the meeting within the Forest Of Death. This must be an absolute secret. I want every precaution taken against eavesdroppers. I want 5 squads of Anbu Shinobi guarding us all. I also want a level eight silencing barrier to enclose us. "Have Naruto and Tenten help you with the seals and barriers. I want the following people in that meeting with me: Ibiki Morino, Anko Mitarashi, Iruka Umino, Kakashi Hatake, Might Gai, Yamato and Kurenai Sarutobi, I also want Tenten and Naruto Uzumaki in this meeting, no one else besides the names i just mentioned are to be mentioned." "Hai Hokage-sama." Have Naruto and Kiba instruct their respective Genin to make the preparations to summon the Matriarch of the Bear clan: Kumasari and the King of Primates: Monkey King Enma. It is now 10 am. I want everything done by 2 p.m." "Hai Hokage-sama."
At 2 P.M within the Forest Of Death
Tsunade had arrived with her Anbu Guard detail at the place where a temporary meeting place had been constructed. It was also coincidently right in the heart of The Forest of Death. When she arrived, she first saw and greeted Monkey King Enma and The Matriarch of the Bear clan: Kumasari.
After that she greeted the rest of her shinobi, she then signalled for them all to enter the large dome barrier that would prevent outsiders from entering or overhearing their conversation. Tsunade spoke only when everyone had entered the barrier. "Monkey King Enma and Kumasari-Dono; I know that you requested a meeting with me to discuss something important, however unfortunately due to certain situations out of my control. I have been advised by my advisors not to meet with any of you privately due to security concerns. I hope you will understand."
Both of them nodded and Kumasari spoke and said "I understand completely Tsunade Matriarch. In times of crisis and war a leader's life and day is ruled by her Generals in charge of her safety." Enma nodded his head in agreement. Tsunade smiled and continued, as you are both aware Konohamaru and Kenpachi are still Genin and as such I have therefore appointed Tenten in Kenpachi's stead and Kurenai Sarutobi in Konohamaru's stead. Is this acceptable to you both?"" I am happy to have Kurenai stand stead for Konohamaru, infact I have been meaning to speak to you my child." King Enma said patting Kurenai on the head. "Asuma was a true shinobi until death, you should be proud to have known him." Kurenai smiled sadly and said "Thank you King Enma sensei, Asuma always spoke highly of the Sarutobi clan."
Kumasari looked at Tenten intently and smiled when Tenten held her gaze then said "I also have no problems, with this mistress of blades making a decision on behalf of my son Kenpachi. I have faith that she will act in my son's benefit." Tsunade smiled and said "as I said before due to time and security constraints I am unable to meet everyone separately and as such the King of the Serpent Clan wishes to speak with Monkey King Enma, Queen Katsuyu of the Slug Clan, the Chief of Toads and me. Will you two allow it?" Enma raised an eyebrow and looked at Tsunade with a silent question.
Tsunade replied silently with her eyes to trust her. Finally Enma thought about it for a full minute and said "very well I shall hear what the serpent clan has to say if Kumasari-Dono approves as well." Kumasari seemed to be lost in thought for a very long time, then finally spoke. "Very well, Tsunade Matriarch I will allow it, however remember The Kuma clan does not take kindly to traps or backstabbing." The Anbu around Tsunade shifted their positions around Tsunade to form a tighter circle upon hearing the implied threat but Tsunade had them settle down. She smiled and said "Thank you Kumasari-Dono for accommodating my request."
Tsunade bit her finger until it bled then performed the hand signs for Boar → Dog → Bird → Monkey → Ram and then planted her hands firmly on the ground. A large poof of smoke appeared within the dome. 3 other poofs of smoke also appeared simultaneously within the dome.
Once the smoke had cleared The Dome had automatically enlarged itself to comfortably fit the Chief of Toads, The Queen of Slugs and The King of Serpents. With their arrival the gathering of leaders had finally began.
Tsunade spoke first "Thank you all for agreeing to this meeting, unfortunately due to time and security constraints I am not able to meet with you one at a time, as fellow leaders I am sure you can understand. I assure you that whatever you say here will be kept in the strictest confidence unless you say otherwise. She then pointed to her right and said "allow me to introduce the shinobi to my right; they are my closest advisors and the new council of Konoha "Kakashi Hatake, Might Gai, Kurenai Sarutobi, and Yamamoto."
Habu spoke for the first time since being summoned "Forgive me for being abrupt Hokage Dono; I had requested an audience alone with you, although I can surely understand why that is not possible, but may we skip the formalities and get to business."
Gamabunta also spoke "for once I agree Tsunade Dono" Tsunade smiled and said "as you wish, Kumasari-Dono, you have my attention, How may I assist you?" Kumasari smiled a feral smile before answering.
"Thank you, Tsunade Matriarch. What I have to say is important; My son Kenpachi is no longer a small helpless cub, he is now a young and strong Bear who will one day lead his own Sloth, however although he is young, he is also headstrong, which is not unusual at his age. It is my opinion that he is now old enough to learn all that his Mother has to teach him. I believe him old enough to learn the Kuma style of taijutsu called: Kuma Karate."
"I am proud of my son that he has managed to learn the first stage of the Kuma style Kenjutsu and is even proficient enough to wield his own Kuma sword in battle. I therefore request that you allow my son Kenpachi to embark on a journey to the caves of The Kuma clan where we will transform this headstrong cub into a confident and full-grown Kuma."
Tsunade was silent for a moment before speaking. "I understand Kumasari-Dono that you wish to teach Kenpachi the path of the Kuma as is his right, but are you sure he is ready for the journey. I do not doubt his skill but I am aware that The Kuma clan's taijutsu style has an 80% mortality rate are you sure that Kenpachi is ready?" Kumasari smiled and said "You are well informed Tsunade Matriarch, it is true what you say. However before I comment any further any further I would like to hear what Tenten has to say."
Tenten looked at Tsunade with a questioning look and after a nod from her leader she spoke. "I am aware of Kenpachi's skills as well as his strengths and weaknesses, although Kenpachi is well versed in Kenjutsu and various weapons his skill in Taijutsu and Ninjutsu although good is not at the level that it can be. Although I am sure that he will learn much by following the path of the Kuma."
"I do not feel he is ready mentally speaking that is, although he is strong he seems to have a bad habit of prolonging a fight to have more fun while battling, he is also very susceptible to his emotions. Although that is not to say that he is not a good shinobi, no infact within him I see much of my old teammate Rock Lee, and although Kiba has proven to be a good sensei I Do not think Kenpachi is yet ready to embark on the journey of the Kuma clan. However I think the best way for not only Kenpachi but for all the genin at this point of time to enhance their skills is to be trained on an individual basis by individual masters."
Tsunade was silent as Kumasari replied "Is this your opinion as his sister or as a superior evaluating the performance of a junior officer Mistress of Blades?" "Both, because in both cases I wish to see Kenpachi reach his full potential and advance. I also believe that Kenpachi should travel down the path of the Kuma however perhaps after. Kumasari was silent for a Minute before replying." "I will not deny that Kenpachi loves to fight and even I have noticed how he sometimes prolongs his fights in order to prolong his enjoyment. However I truly feel that walking down the path of the Kuma is Kenpachi's destiny." With that said Kumasari fell silent as well deep in thought.
Tsunade finally spoke "It would seem we are at an Impasse." Naruto then stood up from his seat on top of Gamabunta's Head and looked at Tsunade and said "perhaps not, permission to speak freely Godaime Sama?" Tsunade was mildly surprised that Naruto had addressed her by her title instead of calling her Grandma, but then she remembered that even Naruto had some manners." "Permission Granted Jonin Naruto."
Naruto looked at King Enma and asked "May I safely assume King Enma that your presence in this meeting today is related to the discussion we had a few weeks ago?" King Enma nodded his head and said "You may assume so Naruto, amongst other things." Naruto smiled and said "Thank you King Enma."
Naruto turned back to Tsunade and said "Hokage-sama I agree with Tenten that our Genin are not your typical Genin, I am proud to say that they have exceeded our expectations, and I speak for the Konoha 12 when I say we have nothing more to teach them.
The battle in Kumo proved this, but that is not to say they have nothing left to learn, although they are high level Genin. However many of them have strengths and weaknesses that we are unable to address. Konohamaru has excellent skills in Ninjutsu and Taijutsu which are no doubt Chunin level if not higher. But his Genjutsu skills leave something to be desired. I think the best way for them to succeed further is for them to find different masters who can cultivate their individual talents further. Just as The Toad Sanin Jiraiya did for me," Naruto said with a hint of sadness.
"Please get to the point Jonin Naruto, what do you suggest?" Tsunade said losing her patience. Naruto smiled and said "It is my recommendation that Genin Konohamaru Sarutobi and Kenpachi Zaraki be allowed to go through the Anbu training regimen to decide whether they are worthy." Tsunade was intrigued at Naruto's suggestion and said "I understand why you might say so for Kenpachi Zaraki but why Konohamaru Sarutobi and worthy for what?"
It was then that King Enma spoke "I will answer that question Tsunade-Dono, one of the reasons for wishing to speak with you was that like his grandfather before him. I wish for Konohamaru to embark on a journey to the Northern Mountains where my kingdom lies. I wish for him to truly learn all that I can teach him I have high hopes for him." Tsunade was shocked and could not keep the awe out of her voice. "Are you serious King Enma sensei? I mean Konohamaru is not even 17 years old and Sarutobi sensei was almost 25 before you gave him the chance to train with you." King Enma smiled and said "I remember it well Tsunade-chan, ah what a talented shinobi he was." King Enma got a faraway look on his face and continued; "I remember how he in the end he was able to master 3 different styles of Monkey Kung Fu: Hou Quan, Piguazhang, and Di Tang. To master even one style took many years of continuous hard work and practice."
I still remember how it had taken me 15 years to fully master the three styles and imagine the shock and pride I felt when he finally completed his training in only Seven years and showed me mastery in these three styles. Later in life shortly before becoming Hokage he had created two secondary styles that stemmed from the original three: Da Sheng Men which was developed from Di Tang."
The second was Da Sheng Pi Gua Kung Fu. This as the name suggests; stemmed from Da Sheng Men and Pi Gua Kung Fu. He later taught me his two secondary styles, which I also mastered." Gamabunta laughed and said "to think that Hiruzen had that kind of talent within him, no wonder Jiraiya always spoke highly of him. I myself highly respected the man."
Kakashi cleared his throat and said "Ladies and gentlemen, we are all aware of how great a shinobi the Sandaime was and although we would love to hear more about his conquests this is neither the time nor the place; please let us get back to the business at hand."
Tsunade recovered herself and said "Yes, you are quite correct Kakashi. Very well Kumasari Dono and King Enma-Dono. I will allow Konohamaru Sarutobi and Kenpachi Zaraki to embark on a journey with you. Provided they are able to pass the Anbu Entrance exam and Anbu training course. Is that acceptable to you both?" Kumasari thought to herself for a few minutes and said "what are your thoughts on this matter Mistress of blades?"
Tenten smiled and said "I agree to the proposition Kumasari-sama, if Kenpachi is able to pass Anbu training I will raise no further objections." Kumasari looked at Tsunade and said "very well Tsunade Matriarch. I believe your offer to be a fair one and I shall accept that. I look forward to hearing the results." She looked at King Enma and said "Many generations ago our ancestors joined forces with a Mortal King to defeat an Evil demon king to free his wife from the demon's stronghold."
"It is said that an army of Bears and Monkeys helped him win the war because of the valour they displayed on the battle field.
I am happy to see that the Sarutobi clan still gives birth to mighty warriors. Tell your son Koenma That the Matriarch of the Kuma clan compliments his valour in battle and that although he is a Monkey he has the heart of a Bear."
King Enma smiled and said "I thank you for your kind words Kumasari-Dono I too have heard the valour that your son displayed on the battlefield. Tell him that The King of Primates compliments him on his Kenjutsu skills. Tell him his skills rival the Bo-jutsu skills of The Sarutobi Clan." Kumasari smiled and said "I shall convey the message King Enma." She looked at Tsunade and said "my business is concluded Tsunade-Matriarch. I shall take my leave." With that said she disappeared in a poof of smoke.
Tsunade looked at King Enma and said "You have my attention, King Enma anything else I can help you with?" King Enma Nodded and said "yes, there is I have a few more things to discuss. First and foremost I would like to Offer Kurenai Sarutobi the chance to sign the Monkey summoning contract."
Tsunade nodded her head "If Kurenai accepts I have no problems with that." Kurenai was surprised to say the least "I am honoured King Enma but before I accept or decline, may I know why you wish to offer me the summoning contract of your clan?"
King Enma smiled before replying "always the strategists aren't you Kurenai-chan? Very well I shall answer your question. any years ago when Asuma had reached the rank of chunin, he was given the chance to sign the Monkey summoning contract, but at the time he declined stating that he wished to forge his own path ahead, without assistance from us.
However he asked me to one day offer our summoning contract to his wife and child should he not be there to protect them. So you see Kurenai –chan I am simply honouring a promise made to a brave young man many years ago."
Kurenai had tears in her eyes but she smiled through them and said "I would be honoured to sign the contract King Enma-Sama. King Enma smiled and made a hand-sign. In a poof of smoke a large scroll with many symbols and runes on the front of it, King Enma unfurled the scroll and laid it on the ground.
Kurenai took out a kunai from her sleeve and cut her right thumb. With the blood that flowed out she wrote her name upon the contract. King Enma smiled and said "Go ahead Kurenai-chan."
Kurenai nodded her head and after biting her thumb went through the required hand signs: Boar → Dog → Bird → Monkey → Ram before slamming her hands down on the ground and said "Ninpou: Kuchiyose no Jutsu." When the smoke had cleared a large monkey of about 8 feet tall body and tail that was covered by jet black fur which protruded from his sleeves and pants. He had long jet black hair that reached into his back and long sideburns and a goatee. He wore a black suit with mesh armour underneath, over which he wears a sleeveless, kimono shirt with black fur, trimmings and markings reminiscent of tiger stripes on it which was held closed by a sash. "The monkey with the jet black fur looked around and saw King Enma standing. He smiled and said: "Hey Kingie how you doing bro, what you call me out her for? We going to bust some heads and kick some ass?" Everyone was shocked into silence when they heard that except for Naruto who was trying to keep himself from laughing and failing. "King Enma meanwhile had a pained expression on his face as he said "My name is King Enma dear brother, it is not Kingie, and I did not call you here, this kunoichi did."He said pointing towards Kurenai.
The Monkey looked at Kurenai and said "Damn girl, you got a lot of spirit, not to mention your easy on the eyes too." Kurenai was dumbfounded not knowing how to reply and risk pissing off her new summon."King Enma, introductions please?" before King Enma could anything the jet black Monkey interrupted and said "oh my, where are my manners Beautiful. My name is King Do-Enma, King of the Southern and Eastern mountains and twin brother of Kingie here. Now tell me dear what your lovely name is." Kurenai smiled and said "My name is Kurenai Sarutobi I have just signed the monkey clan contract." Do-Enma smiled wide and said "oh I know you, your Konohamaru's auntie aren't you?" Kurenai nodded and said "yes, sir" Oh no need to be so formal beautiful you can just call me Do-san." King Enma finally swallowed his irritation and said "Kurenai-chan, this is my twin brother Do-Enma King of the Southern and Eastern mountains and one of the strongest warriors of our clan. As you know my reign extends towards the Northern and Western mountain."
Despite his mannerisms, my brother is highly intelligent and wise, he is also a very good match for you because unlike me, his specialities lie not in Bo-jutsu and the like but in Genjutsu and Barrier jutsu. He is also one of the few in our clan who has mastered all five stances of the Tai-shing Monkey Taijutsu; Drunken Monkey, Stone Monkey, Lost Monkey, Standing Monkey, and Wooden Monkey as well as the ."
"Even I could only master 3 of the Tai-shing Monkey Kung Fu stances and unlike many of our Brethren who wield Bo-staffs my brother is one of the very few in our clan who claims mastery with a Broadsword." He then turned towards his brother and said "my dear brother I am happy to see you again, and it seems you now have a job to do, Kurenai is now your summoner and I wish for you to teach her the Standing Monkey and Lost Monkey Fighting Style as well as the 3 different styles of Monkey Kung Fu: Hou Quan, Piguazhang, Di Tang."
" I request you to inform your warriors of the Southern and Eastern mountains that they now have a new summoner Kurenai Sarutobi and in time her son Zuko Sarutobi." Do-Enma nodded his head and said "you got it Kingie see you on the flip side." He then looked at Kurenai and gave her a wink and a smile before disappearing in a poof of smoke. Koenma turned towards Kurenai and said "No need to worry Kurenai chan, he likes to joke around a lot, but he knows how to handle himself on the battlefield." Kurenai nodded with apprehension as if not entirely believing him. King Enma then turned to Tsunade and said "Hokage–Dono. There is a reason why I have spoken at length about the types of taijutsu our clan practices. I have high hopes for Konohamaru. It is my hope to rebuild the Sarutobi clan and restore it to its former glory so that we may better serve our Village. I will make this very clear right now Hokage Dono. When Konohamaru passes the Anbu entrance exam.
My brother and I will personally train him in the mountains of the Sarutobi clan for Five years and teach him both the 3 traditional styles of Monkey Kung-Fu, the two secondary styles his grandfather created as well as the the five variations of Monkey Kung Fu developed as part of the Tai Shing system, we will teach him all that we know and make sure he becomes a master."
He then turned towards Naruto and said "Namikaze Dono, you are Konohamaru's biggest inspiration and rival, that boy loves and respects you much like you did your own Master. Ensure that when he returns you are worthy of that love and respect Son of the Gama clan."
Naruto smiled and said "I have always thought that Konohamaru will become a better shinobi than me. After all is not tradition for the student to surpass the master?"King Enma smiled and said "indeed it is, Namikaze-Dono. He then looked at Tsunade and said "might I suggest that in order to ensure there is no bias in the examinations I suggest that the Konoha 12 be barred from providing any feedback related to the Anbu examinations and that they also be required to write a report detailing only the skills that their Genin now possess and also I hereby request that Anko Mitarashi, Kakashi Hatake, Ibiki Morino and Yamamoto Taichou, personally design and conduct the Anbu examinations and course.
Tsunade thought about it for a minute and said "that seems fair. I approve, anything else King Enma?" King Enma shook his head and said No, Hokage–dono, although I do wish to discuss a matter of mutual interest with the head of The Aburame clan." Tsunade nodded her head and said "of course, I will also assign an escort to escort you through the village checkpoints." The Monkey King nodded his head and made to leave, when the king of serpents interrupted him. "King Enma-Dono, I wish to discuss a matter of great importance with you, The Chief of Toads and the Queen of Slugs.
However I wish to discuss alone with you three, however considering my clan's history with your village I request that the Hokage allow two shinobi within this Dome to accompany her while the others leave." Katsuyu spoke for the first time since being summoned "you presume much King of Serpents, beware your tone. If this is some plot to harm my mistress I assure you will not live to complete it." Habu looked sad for a moment before replying "I assure you Queen of slugs my intentions are most pure I bear no enmity towards the leader of this village, I have come here on a mission of peace, but I can surely understand your resentment."
Anko was about to say something when Iruka squeezed her hand. "Katsuyu-sama, please forgive my interruption in this matter, however I do not think it fair to judge Habu-sama so harshly."
"I agree that his predecessors have caused much sorrow and grief to our village, however since Habu-sama has ascended to the throne, he has used every opportunity to make up for the sins of his ancestors and I would also like to remind everyone here that had it not been for Habu and Mamushi sama Anko and myself would not be here today, and was it not the Sandaime Hokage himself that said everyone deserves a second chance at peace?" King Enma laughed kindly and said "Well said, Iruka-kun, always the voice of reason are you not? It seems Hiruzen made the right choice all those years ago when he made you an instructor at the academy."
He then turned to Katsuyu and said "My dear lady Katsuyu I certainly understand your hatred for the Serpent Clan however let us hear what the King Of Serpents has to say before we jump to conclusions."
Katsuyu spoke again "Very well King Enma I shall hear what he has to say and then make my decision." Gamabunta spoke last and said "You have the floor King Habu. The shinobi of Konoha will always welcome peace today shall be a new Era indeed, either the King of the Serpent Clan shall die by our hands for the sins of his ancestors or he shall be the King who brought peace to his clan."
Upon hearing this the 25 foot green python bared his fangs and brought himself to full height before saying "I Understand Your hatred for my clan Toad King but remember it is not wise to provoke a sleeping Serpent, for the serpent might awaken and bare its fangs. Tell me does that scar across your face still hurt or have you forgotten the time when the King of serpents sank his fangs into you, perhaps I should give you another one to match the scar above your right eye?" The King of Serpents asked with a sinister smile that showed his multiple rows of razor sharp teeth.
Gamabunta made to unsheathe his Tanto and said "let us see which is sharper your Teeth or my blade, shall we?" Gamabunta sneered and gave Habu a look of intense hatred which Habu held and returned. Gamabunta enough, let the serpent speak, he states he has come on a mission of peace. Let us hear him before you decide to cut him into small pieces."
Gamabunta seemed to have completely ignored King Enma, but then suddenly he grinned and sheathed his Tanto before saying "Did you have to spoil my Fun Enma? Heh well I am happy to see that the new king of serpents does not scare easily and knows how to respond to threats. Go ahead King Habu."
Instead of replying the King of Serpents looked towards Tsunade expectantly and said "will you accede to my request Hokage Dono?" Tsunade looked at Habu for a moment and said "I will accept your request King Habu, however, as your discussions concerns The Toad Chief and the Monkey King, I find it fair that their summoners be present as should yours, as for everyone else I will ask them to leave except for Might Gai and Kakashi Hatake who will be my advisors. Is that acceptable to you King Habu?" The King of Serpents thought for a moment before replying "Very well, Hokage Dono, that is acceptable to me."
Tsunade nodded her head and turned to her shinobi and gave her orders Gai and Kakashi I want you to stay along with Naruto, Iruka and Kurenai. The rest of you may leave." She looked at Tenten and said "Tenten I want you to gather Kiba Inuzuka and Chouji Akimichi along with the rest of the Konoha 12 at the Aburame household. Discuss with them your thoughts about the Genin being taught under the tutelage of new masters. See if they agree that the Genin are in need of different masters to further their growth as shinobi. I will convene a meeting soon to discuss these matters as well." "Hai Hokage-sama." The rest of you are dismissed." The Anbu outside the dome made a single hand sign that allowed the dome to open partially and thus allowing the shinobi to leave.
5 minutes later
Tsunade spoke "you have the floor King Habu. Please speak your mind." The King of serpents nodded and said "thank you, Hokage-Dono. Since we are all short on time I will come straight to the point. In the recent years the serpent clan has not had many summoners, for not many shinobi are willing to sign their contract. This has caused much infighting within the Serpent Clan. However after I joined forces with the Cobra clan the combined forces of the Constrictor, Viper and Cobra clan was enough to stop the infighting and bring peace back to the Serpent clan. As Gratitude to the Cobra clan both my sister and I married into the Cobra Clan to ensure a more lasting and powerful political alliance."
"However we are in need of something more to ensure peace within our clan. You see our clan although tainted by the crimes of our ancestors has much to offer. I speak not only of strength but of Knowledge as well my brethren are knowledgeable in many fields the most obvious being venom and poisons."
" So to be precise what I have come here to request is a chance to prove that not all serpents are treacherous, we do not want war we want peace and in order to do that the serpent clan must change, and the first step towards that is to atone for the sins that my ancestors caused. "
"Therefore I am here today to apologise for the actions of my ancestors and repent for their sins against the Toad, Slug, and Monkey clan as well as to the leader of Konoha." With that said the King of serpents fell silent. Everyone was dumbstruck for a full minute they were expecting many things but this was not it.
Finally Kakashi spoke "Hokage-sama I studied Habu-Dono's behaviour and body language with my Sharingan since he has arrived and both his words and body language suggest that his intentions are truthful. Naruto also spoke and said "Hokage-sama I have every reason to believe that Habu –Sama is truthful and holds no deceit or hatred within his hard, I was able to verify this during the conversation when my clones used Sage mode and Chakra mode to verify what he said.
Gai spoke as well and said "Before any decision is made Hokage-sama may I suggest you ask what exactly does the King of serpents want with us?" King Habu spoke "what I wish for Tsunade-dono is a new summoner. So that we may show that our intentions are true. In exchange the serpent Clan will pledge its loyalty to Konoha. If Konoha is willing to trust us and allow us to pass our knowledge on to new summoners then we will ally ourselves to Konoha. Mamushi and I have already passed on our knowledge to Iruka and Anko and promised them that if they wish for it we will offer our contract to their children. You see the serpent clan is divided into three houses: Constrictors, Vipers and Cobras. Iruka and Anko have signed the Constrictors and Vipers summoning contracts respectively. However there is still one contract that is as of yet unclaimed and unsigned."
"Previously signing the Serpent contract meant being able to summon all three houses, however after the 2nd Shinobi war the elders of the clan decided to split the contract into three parts so that no shinobi may gain too much power, as such Anko was offered the summoning Contract for the Viper clan and Iruka the Constrictor clan. Thus as a peace offering and a gift I offer to Konohagakure the last contract; that of the Cobra clan.
Habu turned towards Iruka and said "Iruka give the Hokage the contract please." Iruka nodded his head and removed a scroll from his pouch and gave it to the Hokage. Tsunade took the scroll from Iruka and said "this is quite a Generous Gift Habu sama however ..." Habu interrupted and said "I know you have already signed a contract Tsunade-dono. This contract is not for you it is for one of your shinobi, or Kunoichi to be exact. I have been informed that there is a promising young Genin within your ranks that hails from the Arigawa clan that specialises in poisons and venoms. I would like to offer this contract to her as I believe she would benefit the most." Gamabunta spoke up and said "you presume much King of Serpents; you present a gift but then dictate to whom it must go."
King Habu sneered and said "I was serious when I said I was sorry for the sins of my ancestors, and that is why I requested the presence of you three. However the decision to accept or decline my offer to join Konoha and the Cobra summoning Contract as a result is the Hokage's not yours Toad Chief."
"The serpent is correct Gamabunta-san" Katsuyu said "Kakashi, Naruto are you both sure that what Habu-Dono spoke is the truth and he holds no enmity within his heart?" Kakashi and Naruto looked at each and said at the same time "Yes, Katsuyu-sama."
Katsuyu wiggled her antennae and said "Toad Chief, Monkey King if King Habu speaks the truth I am willing to co-operate with him." "Thank you kind lady." King Habu said with humility, "Make no mistake King Habu I am willing to co-operate with you because you have personally done me or my comrades no harm, however I still do and will always bear ill will towards your ancestors. Who were responsible for the death of many of the shinobi of this village" Katsuyu said.
King Enma also spoke and said "I do not know you King Habu so I will not judge you, but consider this my only warning. If I find that at any point of time you have even attempted to betray Konohagakure I will kill you on the spot." Gamabunta spoke as well "I will welcome peace if that is what you wish King Habu but remember that I always have loved snake leather."
"That will be enough Chief Gamabunta; I have let everyone have their say while I stayed silent. Now I shall speak and you shall stay silent." Tsunade said in a commanding tone that demanded absolute compliance. "King of Serpents I would like to firstly thank you for your gift and also for your frankness. I also thank you for your offer to join the ranks of summoned animals who wear the leaf Hitai-ate, however I am afraid I am not able to give you a complete answer I can surely understand why you wish for Tatsuki Arigawa to inherit The Cobra Clan's summoning contract, but I will have to discuss this matter with her sensei and most importantly Tatsuki herself."
If she agrees I see no reason she may not sign it. In response to the issue that has been raised by yourself about aligning yourself to Konoha I will have to discuss this with my shinobi before i can let you know, but I expect a quick answer." "After all Konoha will benefit greatly from the wisdom that the serpent clan holds not only in the fields of Martial arts but the field of Medicine and Poisons as well."
Habu smiled and said "I assure you Lady Hokage, that if the village of Konoha accepts our proposal I will personally ensure that the knowledge we hold is shared after all to have a Village like Konoha as our allies the Serpent Clan will be able to avoid much Infighting and pointless wars. I await your response Tsunade-dono." With that said the King of serpents disappeared in a poof of smoke.
King Enma spoke first "well that was interesting. I suppose you want my official vote right Tsunade-chan?" Tsunade smiled at the suffix attached to her name. It seemed that he lapsed into his usual grumpy self once all the shinobi had gone. "I would appreciate it King Enma sensei." "I'll admit the snake was very charming, but I wouldn't trust him as far as I could throw him." Tsunade smiled again and said "I am afraid that doesn't answer my question sensei. "King Enma sighed and looked at Gamabunta and said "what do you say old friend?" "I say let's make some snakeskin wallets and belts. But I guess Iruka would not appreciate that would you kid?" The chief toad asked gruffly. "Iruka smiled ruefully and said "No, Gamabunta-sama I would not. I understand your reluctance but keep in mind that the serpent clan is a very powerful clan and I believe Habu-sama can be trusted."
"Alright kid ill trust you on this one, but listen well Tsunade. If that girl signs the contract ensure she has some Adult supervision around her." "Your advice is noted chief toad. So may I assume that I have the vote of the Toad and Monkey clan?" Gamabunta and King Enma looked at each other and said in Unison. Yes, Hokage dono you have the support of our Individual clans. We stand behind you in this decision."
King Enma nodded his head and said "I'll meet you before I leave Tsunade chan, right now however I want to speak to Shibi Aburame on an important matter. So if you don't mind I will be off." "Of course sensei, anything else?" "Not right now Tsunade chan maybe later, come on let's go Gai." "Hai King Enma" Gai said enthusiastically. "Iruka You may leave as well, as your leaving you will find Hiashi and Hinata waiting on the edge of the forest. Please ask them to join us. Kakashi you may stay." "Hai Godaime sama"
5 Minutes later
Once Hinata and Hiashi had joined them Tsunade spoke "alright Naruto I am all ears." Naruto smiled and said "thanks you're the best Baa-chan. But before I speak anything, the boss wants to say something first." The Hokage nodded and looked at Gamabunta. "I'll be quick and get straight to the point Tsunade. I came here because Naruto being my henchman asked me a favour. I have come to tell you that the Gama clan summoning contract has been altered: by using Naruto and Hinata's blood as the medium our clan's summoning contract has been rewritten so that only Naruto's children and his descendants will be able to summon the Gama clan.
This obviously means that any all Jutsu and techniques that the Gama clan knows and uses will only be taught to Naruto and his children and his children's children etc.
I have also decided to accept your offer of wearing the Konoha Hitai-ate; but on the condition that I will run my Gang the way I see fit.
My first duty as Naruto's Boss is to protect my henchman, and that will supersede all orders I receive, and lastly my clan may reserve the right to wear the Leaf Hitai-ate not on our heads but on our backs, and also I would like to request Katsuyu-san to also consider wearing the leaf Hitai-ate. The reason being is obvious. When our shinobi learn that both the Slug clan and Gama clan wear the Leaf Hitai-ate it will boost their lowered morale, not to mention the political benefits and that is all I have to say."
Tsunade simply raised an eyebrow and said "brief indeed, but why do I feel there is more to come?" "Your right Baa-chan there is more to come, I will now explain further, as I am sure everyone has already figured out I am taking the first steps to create my own clan." His voice turned cold as he continued "I am not blind baa-chan, I know that there are still a few within this village that still see me as nothing more than the Nine-tails fox personified and I am sure their number is sure to increase once the truth about the Hyuuga clan and the Elders comes out." Naruto said
"I have lived half of my life not knowing who my parents are and what is my heritage, I had to live on the mercy and kindness of others. Even when I became a Genin and assigned a sensei I was cast aside and hardly taught anything at all."
"Because my sensei; Sharingan Kakashi only had eyes for Sasuke Uchiha and hardly bothered teaching me much jutsu or techniques, despite him knowing whom I was he ignored me and found me to be slightly more intelligent than pond scum, he was so lost in his own guilt of killing his team mates that he didn't notice anybody or anyone else around him. He knew what ailed me, but yet did nothing about it except to say not now Naruto, I have to train Sasuke."
"Why don't you do some Chakra training and would then disappear. When asked directly to train me he would make an excuse and disappear to train Sasuke Uchiha who ended up betraying the village in the end and would have killed everyone, if it wasn't for me."
There were only two people who actually cared about me and my growth Jiraiya and Iruka, the rest simply saw me as a tool to be used or a power to be feared."
Kakashi hung his head in shame as he heard Naruto's harsh words. He knew that he had never done right by Naruto in the first place and tried to rectify his mistakes when he came back from training.
Kakashi made to say something but Naruto's ice cold gaze stopped him in his tracks. "No need to defend yourself or make excuses Hatake Kakashi I later on saw that you tried to repent for your mistakes. But unfortunately on some nights when I relieve the nightmares of my childhood I ask myself the question why didn't Kakashi sensei who preaches about leaving no man behind and protecting your comrades did not come to my rescue, why didn't he help me."
The answers I receive are not satisfactory remember Hatake Kakashi I may have forgiven you but I have not forgotten my past. Kitsune have long memories. Thus I have decided to form my own clan with unique abilities. So that my children may not face the same mockery and insult I faced as a child, and if they do I promise you this Baa-chan I will not be in a forgiving mood."
Until now the citizens of Konoha have only seen my kindness, but if my family is harmed in any way the citizens of Konoha will face my anger." Gamabunta spoke "hey kid this aint no time to be wallowing in self pity, neither is this the time to be making threats. Let us see the actions before we make a reaction and when we react the village shall tremble in fear for on that day the Gama clan will burn this village to ashes." Naruto closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He opened his eyes and said "I'm sorry baa-chan I have been under a lot of stress lately."
Tsunade nodded and said "it's ok Naruto its normal, you haven't had time to grieve for Sai's death and as a result your grief has turned into anger. However I would be careful if I were you, it is not wise to make threats. " Naruto Laughed a cold and chilling laugh and Tsunade briefly saw his blue eyes flash crimson red as he spoke. "I make no threats Baa-chan, I make promises, and I promise you if my family is harmed by this village. I will personally wreak such destruction and havoc upon this village that not even Kami in all her might will be able to rebuild this village and this I promise." Hinata took Naruto's hand and held it to her heart and said "Shh, it's ok Naruto-kun. Nobody is going to hurt us my love. Calm down; look at how you're scaring everyone." Naruto seemed to have heard her and suddenly the red chakra forming around him dissipated and his crimson eyes turned back to blue. "I'm sorry Baa-chan times like these really bring up bad memories, and sometimes even I fall Immune to them. Thankfully I have Hinata-chan to calm me down." Tsunade nodded her and continued the conversation.
"Now you were saying that you wanted to create your own clan. But as per the rules set down by the Shodai Hokage any shinobi willing to create his or her clan must have at least one martial art or skill that can only be performed by said shinobi. And while having the Gama clan summoning contract certainly qualifies, don't you think it's a bit early to announce your plans. After all you're not even engaged to Hinata yet." "Is the reason you have called us here to announce a kunai wedding?" Hiashi asked Naruto with a stern voice.
Naruto smiled and shook his head and said "not at all Hiashi-sama I assure you Hinata is not pregnant with my child at this moment of time, but that is not to say that she will not be. I am simply informing you of my intent to marry her. Tsunade looked worried so Naruto assuaged her worries. Naruto smiled and said "Nice try Baa-chan but I learned long ago to read underneath the underneath Tsunade Baa chan."
Tsunade smiled as Naruto continued "I know the Political Balance within the village is very unstable right now. But I don't plan on creating a clan right now and even if i wanted to i could not. By my calculations it will take me at least 10 years to get things in order. However as the rules also state any shinobi wishing to form a clan must give the Hokage prior notice which must be witnessed by 2 Jonin rank Shinobi who have held that rank for more than 5 years, criteria which I believe both Kakashi sensei And Hiashi Hyuuga qualify in both aspects."
Tsunade smiled and nodded and said "very well Naruto, however in order for me to make any kind of comment I must have a document in writing stating your intentions." Naruto nodded and removed a scroll from his pouch and handed it over to Tsunade. Tsunade opened the scroll and quickly read it through.
5 minutes later
Tsunade had read the scroll and turned towards Naruto and said "so let me get this straight Naruto, you wish to claim that the Gama summoning contract as well as The Uzumaki clan's Fuuinjutsu scrolls that you inherited from your mother and Jiraiya as property of The Namikaze clan which is the name you wish to give your new clan, correct?" That is correct Baa-chan."
Kakashi however had to ask a question "Naruto you have claimed the Gama techniques as you're own and those of your descendants, but does that mean that all your descendants will also learn the sage arts as well."
Gamabunta spoke "I will answer that question Kakashi; you see when the first Toad elders decided to teach the sage arts to their descendants they realised at that point of time, the amount of power that the Sage Arts held was tremendous, and as a result they made a decree that still stands to this day. The decree stated that in order to ensure peace and fair division of power, the sage arts would never be taught to two consecutive generations. Instead it will skip a generation, i.e. Jiraiya was taught the Sage Arts; but Minato was not and again after Jiraiya Naruto was the second to be taught the Sage Arts. Do you know why?" It is because the sage arts will be taught not to Naruto's children but his grandchildren so as to maintain equilibrium and balance and that to only if they are found worthy by the toad sages the same rules apply to the toads of Mount Myōbokuzan as well." Kakashi looked relieved and said "I see well thank you for the clarification Chief toad."
Tsunade seemed serious and said "I cannot comment on this right now Naruto, give me some time to think about this but I don't expect much issues." Naruto nodded and said "sure Tsunade baa chan take all the time you need, but just remember I have preparations of my own to make." Tsunade nodded her head and said; "well, this Gathering of Leaders has given me a lot to think about."
A/N: finally finished the chapter; sorry if it's a bit long I tried to fit in a lot of stuff. A couple of things; I know I made Naruto sound cold and unforgiving for a while there but I was just trying to show that Naruto was still very deeply affected by his past and that he has not yet had time to process the death of Sai. A Kunai wedding is the ninja equivalent of a Shotgun Wedding.
Also the information that I have written about Monkey Kung Fu is factual information and is the name of an Actual Chinese martial art which I found from Wikipedia. I have tried to put in a couple of hints for chapters to come. As the chapters progress more secrets will be revealed. So don't worries be happy. All is well. Read and Review.
