Here is the next chapter in this little tale; This is the longest one I have written thus far. Over ten thousands words in honor of recieving my one hundreth review from the last chapter. I also would like to remind everyone that next chapter is the infamous fifth chapter and it will focus on other events that you wouldn't normally get in the main story. If you have any requests about characters you would like to see in it or maybe to learn a little bit about how thier lives have changed since Hinata and Naruto dies let me know in a review. I will work them in and develop thier stories a little more.
Shout Outs:
dragonball256: It was bound to happen some time. But there will be some extenuating circumstances that may delay the knowledge. You will have to wait a few chapters before that happens though.
Chewie Cookies: Feel bad all you like for her. But you shouls also play close attention to her, there are some drastic changes in the future with that character that will give an outcome you wouldn't think of normally. I wouldn't worry for Neji and Tenten yet, the one to watch is Kushina.
Kingkakashi: That pairing really interested me and most people never think of it. Half of the reason for it is because he was once a jinchuriki and would have the greatest understanding of how Naruto was. Unfortunatly she has issues with her former teamamate that keeps that at bay.
Naruhinalover: The inclusion helps round everyone out. Although I must admit I never planned on it happening as such but I was thinking about so much stuff that the two events collided.
With that, let the story begin. I do not own Naruto but I am currently in the process of buying Hinata, I just hope the wife doesn't mind (drool)!
Two Weeks Later
Paper was piled high along all the edges of the desk. This had to be the bane of all Kages. There were order forms, and mission requests. Sometimes you would find an official invitation to some event that wanted the Kage's presence to add a little flare. Rules, regulations, and politics all seemed to be at the forefront of this blasted paperwork. There was never any end in sight as soon as they were approved or denied another pile would occupy the newly vacant spot. "I swear, these papers never piled up on Hinata-chan's desk," Naruto said to his new foe. He knew his wife was very efficient but he never realized how efficient she really was. Just about the time Naruto had thought of using a Futon: Rasenshuriken on the indomitable foe there was a knock on the door.
Looking up in a questioning manner as he wasn't expecting any visitors this afternoon he promptly stated, "Enter". A young girl full of energy entered the office and quickly ran to the front of Naruto's desk. She bowed lightly and Naruto spoke once more, "Ai, it is good to see you. How is your mother doing?"
"Uzukage-sama, she is doing fine. In fact, she is the one that sent me here," Ai said in a speedy voice.
"Is there something wrong at the port?" Naruto said with a sense of curiosity. Not a lot had happened as of late and there even seemed to be fewer reports from around the island of people trying to sneak into the village.
"Not that I know of, but there is a group of people there that have requested to see you," she said with more excitement than Naruto thought would have been appropriate.
It was not unusual for people to request to see him, and he often did do so, but there was just something about the way Ai was acting that said there was something more about these visitors than she was telling him. "How are the visitors Ai?"
Putting her finger to her chin and tilting her head slightly Ai tried to describe the people that were waiting for her to return with instructions for the newly arrived. The first person that stuck out was the one in pink. "There is an older girl with pink hair and she has a dark pink dress on with a slit down the side and stops at her side. She seems kind of quiet though. Then there is a blonde girl with several ponytails, shes looks a little mean though. She has a huge fan on her back, what do you suppose that is for?" Ai looked at Naruto for an answer, but the only reaction she received was Naruto's eyes slowly getting larger as the information was being processed. Ai decided to continue, "There is also a guy with short red hair and a funny tattoo that says 'Love' on his forehead. I wonder why he has a tattoo there. He has a large jar on his back, or is it a gourd? Anyways, it is a funny shape. Then there is Shikamaru-kun".
Naruto's mind was racing a mile a minute. It took him a few minutes before he shook his head and came back to reality. When he looked across his desk he could see Ai standing there leaning against the desk looking at him, waiting for a response. From the brief descriptions Ai gave him he could only assume that the visitors were Sakura, Gaara, Temari, and of course as she said Shikamaru.
That is the reason she was excited. During Shikamaru's visit he played with her one afternoon. It was a game of hide-and-go seek, but she used her Kekki Genkai. Still with the great disadvantage Shikamaru was able to find her with relative ease. Ai had taken a shine to him and nearly never left his side.
Thinking back to the problem at hand, it was too early for the others to know as of yet. Naruto would have to inform the others immediately of their friends being in the village, and needed to stall the meeting that was requested. Naruto quickly took out a few pieces of parchment and started to write on them. When he was done he lifted his head and addressed Ai once more. "Ai, give this one to your mother," he handed her the first folded note. Naruto then put his seal to the four other pieces of paper and handed them to Ai. "These are for the visitors. Now, about the red haired man, I want you to show him the same respect you show me, ok?" Thinking quickly he withdrew his last statement, "Scratch that, show him even more respect. He is the Kazekage of Sunagakure, and a very important person," Thinking about how informal Ai can be.
Ai's eyes widened, "You mean he is like you Saisei-sama?"
"Yes he is, and don't get the pink haired girl mad, she can be kind of scary," Naruto thought. "Now hurry along and don't let them wait any longer".
Ai bowed slightly and started to run out the door, "Ok Saisei-sama, I will go as fast as I can," and with that she disappeared, running down the hall.
Naruto quickly got up from his chair and went to the door. He promptly shut and locked it, then turned around to look at the office. At least I won't have to worry about paperwork considering the recent events, he thought to himself. Taking a deep breath there was a flash of white and then the office was empty.
At the Docks
With the guard post for the docks in sight Ai put a little extra speed into her step. She saw her mother standing with the four visitors, mainly talking to Shikamaru, while the others stood there looking around at what they could see of the village from where they were. Sliding to a stop at the desk and panting slightly Ai looked to her mother, "The Uzukage told me to give you this mother". Ai handed the folded note to her mother then walked excitedly over to Shikamaru. "Shika-kun, can you play hide-and-go seek with me again. You won't be able to find me this time".
Shikamaru looked over at Temari who giggled and mouthed 'Shika-kun' to Sakura, most notably to tease him later. He leaned down and ruffled the young girl's head which prompted a shriek from the girl, "If I get a chance on this trip I would love to give you that opportunity to try." He had taken a liking to the girl when he was here during his initial visit as she too liked to stare at clouds when she had nothing to do either.
Ai handed Shikamaru one of the notes that her Uzukage had given her. She then handed one to Temari, and one to Sakura, whom she was careful to keep a little distance from. Sakura looked at her strangely, as it appeared the girl was scared of her. Ai then stopped in front of Gaara and when she did she bowed deeply, holding out the note for him to take. "From the Uzukage, Kazakage-sama," she stated politely and with respect.
Gaara looked at the little girl bewildered, wondering how she knew of his title as he had yet to give it to anyone. With a gentle bow he took the note thanking her and proceeded to open it, reading the contents.
To Whom This Note Is Presented To:
The bearer of this official notice is a guest here in Uzushiogakure at the request of the Uzukage. If presented with this notice please treat the bearer with all the due respect that you would to me and give them your finest hospitality. If the bearer wishes to purchase goods or services: to include food, lodging, souvenirs, or supplies please seek no tender and bill the amount to me personally. Whatever the bill may be I will be personally responsible for it. You may contact me for any questions, and the authenticity of the notice is hereby given from the affixed Uzukage seal. Thank you for your understanding and taking care of our special guest.
The Uzukage,
Minato Saisei
Gaara looked at the note with a puzzled expression, wondering why a Kage would give such luxuries to people he'd yet to meet personally, with the exception of Shikamaru. Thinking to himself he wondered if Shikamaru had actually made such an impression on the Uzukage, and if he did then the hopes of negotiations would be a lot smoother than originally anticipated.
Just as Gaara had finished his thought the lady who had received the first letter stepped out from the post counter and walked up to them. She stopped in front of Gaara and bowed, "I'm terribly sorry for the delay Kazekage Gaara-sama. My Name is Ami and I would have tried to get things done more quickly had I known such an important person as you was visiting".
Deciding that the cat was out of the bag, and he didn't know who let it out, he decided to resume his role in his humbled tones. "No reason for such an apology Ami-san. We had failed to notify your village ahead of time of our arrival and we are sorry for doing so. As for me being the Kazekage, it is true, although I did not wish to make such a fiasco with my presence".
Standing straight again the woman smiled at the Kazekage's words. "My Uzukage wishes to extend his regards with your presence here in Uzu. He has also informed me that he regrets that he will not be able to see you today but does wish to have a meeting with you in the morning if that wouldn't be a problem."
"Think nothing of it Ami-san. I too know of the duties of being a Kage and the many demands that one may have," Gaara shivered a little at the thought of the paperwork that would be waiting for him when he returned to Suna.
"I have also been instructed to lead you personally to the inn where you may rest from your long journey. Everything has already been arranged and it is at the Uzukage's request that if there is anything you need all you have to do is present the notices in your possession and your needs will be taken care of". Ami turned toward the village and started walking. "You may leave your travel packs as they will be delivered to your rooms, and you may follow me".
"Are you sure it is ok that we have free reign to spend the Uzukage's money as such?" Shikamaru asked. "My wife can rack up a bill at any resta…" he was stopped from continuing that thought with an elbow to the kidney. Shikamaru looked to Temari to see the smile on her face that he knew could send the deadliest demon running with its tail between its legs.
"It is quite alright," Ami explained as they walked into the village. "It is unlikely that the Uzukage will receive any bills from where you eat or stay. Most of the villagers give the young couple anything they think they will fancy. The Uzukage's wife was in the market place a while back and she had spotted a dress she took a shine to. The owner of the store took notice, but when she didn't purchase it, the owner took it from the rack and boxed it up for her anyways. The next day I heard the Uzukage's wife exited the compound to find the package with the dress with it. This has happened many times and they started to try to return the items but they could never get the shop owners to take back the items. Often they would donate the items to those in need".
As they neared the inn, Shikamaru noticed how the place had grown. The inn now had three stories to it, more than likely to accommodate the extra travelers and traders coming from the boats. When they entered the building they were greeted at the desk and Ami asked Gaara for his notice. When he handed it over Ami presented it to the inn keeper and began to explain. "These people here are guests of the Uzukage. Their luggage is still at the docks next to my post and they will need your three best rooms".
After reading the notice and looking at the seal, a smile spread across the inn keepers' face that, one would have thought stretched to the back of her head. She clapped her hand getting everyone's attention that was behind the counter, "Daiki, there is luggage down at the docks next to the guard post, bring it here immediately," she started to command. "Aoi, please go to the third floor suites and ensure that they are ready to have guests. I need three rooms ready before our guests reach the top of the stairs. Daisuke, I need you to go to the market. I want welcoming baskets for our guests. They better be of the same quality you would present to the Uzukage himself". The elderly inn keeper then turned to a small girl who was sitting in the corner looking kind of dejected. "Asuka," the little girl's eyes brightened at the idea of being given an assignment, "I need you to go to that restaurant that I like so much. You remember the one right?" The little girl nodded her head. "Please tell the owner that he needs to make a reservation for four for this evening. He needs to keep the time open and the table available. Inform him it is for the guests of the Uzukage and they will be dinning at his establishment tonight". With her orders the little girl took off through the front door and made her way through the village. The inn keeper turned back to the guests, "If you will follow me I will take you to your rooms," and she began to lead them through the inn while Ami took her leave.
As Temari entered their room all she could do was whistle. "A girl could get used to this type of living," she said while looking around. The room was a large suite with separate sleeping and living areas. There was a large bathing area rather than having to use the public baths. There was a hot spring bath on the first floor if they wished to use it. The suite also had a spacious kitchenette with a small eating area that seemed warm and comfortable. The bedroom was well decorated with a large four poster bed with a hanging deep blue canopy. The last catching feature was a large walkout window that led out to a balcony spanning the length of their suite, leaving only a few feet between one balcony and another. She stepped out onto the terrace and looked at the view to the south, overlooking the ocean. Temari gasped at the view before her thinking of how romantic it would be in the late afternoon as the sun was starting to set. Looking to her right she noticed that her pink haired travel companion was across the way on her own balcony. "Now this is the red carpet treatment," she said to Sakura.
"You're telling me. What type of Kage is this, who treats visitors that show up unannounced with such extravagancies?" she said in return.
"I don't know, but he has bonus points in my book," Temari said with a giggle.
Shikamaru joined Temari out on the terrace and sighed happily at the view. Looking to the sky in the south he could see a few sparse clouds dotting the blue backdrop thinking of how relaxing it would be to lay out here above the village and allow the day to pass him by. He moved in behind Temari and wrapped his arms around her waist, leaning in he kissed her gently on the cheek. "Think of it as our second chance at a honeymoon".
Leaning back into his embrace, trying to get rid of the ire that shot to the forefront of her mind over their first attempt of a honeymoon, "I still haven't forgiven Lady Hokage for her horrible timing". The day after their wedding ceremony Shikamaru was called to the Hokage tower for an emergency mission that kept him away for a week and a half. Temari had stormed into the Hokage's office with the intent of giving Tsunade a piece of her mind, that was until she approached the door only to see someone fly through the now splintered pile of shrapnel and imbed themselves into the wall across the hallway. Temari had turned around immediately as the Hokage stepped into the hall looking to finish the job on the middle aged man that lay there unconscious. She started to shiver as Lady Tsunade bellowed to her assistant to attend to the man's wounds so she could have another go at him.
She shivered a little and felt slightly sorry for the man, bringing her back to reality. She looked back to Sakura, "Hey, why don't we go to the market for a little souvenir shopping? After all the Uzukage did give us until tomorrow for the meeting".
"That sounds great. I can pick up something to wear for the dinner tonight," the pink haired kunoichi responded.
Troublesome, Shikamaru thought. "Go easy on the budget. He may have given us the ability to purchase whatever we want but we don't want to take advantage of his or the people's hospitality".
"We won't. Maybe just a light snack out and then a little window shopping, I want to see what makes this village so prominent in such a short amount of time." Temari turned in Shikamaru's arms and kissed him gently before walking back into the room to get ready.
In a Training Field
Panting could be heard in the center of the open field as the lone person who was training there was sweating at the exertion being put into her daily routine. Large patches of torn up dirt littered the field and kunai were imbedded into training dummies, all meeting their mark with pin-point accuracy. Off to one side of the training field, a side that held no damage sat another young woman who was on a blanket playing with a small baby with pale blue eyes and blonde hair.
Going through the motions of her own developed style of her family's famed taijutsu with vigor, she was hoping that her cousin would finish with his work early so he could help her train this afternoon. Lost in the concentration of her training, she turned quickly at the sense of the chakra signature that suddenly appeared behind her. Without realizing who just made an appearance she lunged with her right hand forward, powered with her chakra, aiming for where the heart would be on the newcomer. He caught her hand by the wrist with ease, unmoving with a smile on his face. "Naruto-kun!" she said in surprise.
Naruto released her hand and leaned down to kiss the forehead where the veins were prominent with her bloodline ability activated. "Hinata-chan, we have a problem," he said righting himself with a little concern ion his eyes.
Thinking it was another piece of paperwork that was giving him some trouble Hinata stood up straight and held out her hand waiting for the paper he was sure to hand to her. "Well, give it to me," she said in a teasing tone, knowing how much Naruto hated being teased over doing the paperwork of the office he held.
Naruto looked down at her outstretched hand with a look of bewilderment on his face, "Give you what?"
"The request or form that has you stumped?" she said in a questioning tone.
He shook his head signaling it was a little more serious than that. "Not the blasted paperwork. We have visitors, and it is of the variety of a personal sort".
Now curious she said with concern, "Who would visit Uzu from our past without making themselves announced first?"
"There are four of them actually. From the description that Ai gave me it sounds as if Sakura, Shikamaru, Temari, and Gaara have all come to pay us a visit," he said with concern.
Thinking quickly seeking a reason for the unexpected visit she responded, "It must have been a trip for Suna. They have made several requests for extensive trade agreements, all of which I had intentionally ignored because of some of the details for the arrangement. We were able to work around those with Konoha by requesting Neji-nii and Tenten-chan to come here and be representatives for the Land of Fire. We would not have that luxury with Suna though".
"That would explain Gaara's appearance, but what about the others. Even Temari should be a kunoichi of the Leaf if she is married to Shikamaru by now," Naruto said in a contemplative tone.
Taking a moment to think about the other three, "More than likely Gaara had requested assistance from Tsunade in the process. He more than likely requested Shikamaru to act as a person who could introduce them to us considering his previous visit here. It would seem that Temari and Shikamaru are married as they are traveling together. As for Sakura, she may have been sent with the party to act as a personal liaison for the Hokage, along with possibly meeting with Neji-nii and Tenten-chan for a personal review". Naruto was shaking his head as his wife made it all sound so reasonable. "You don't think they know do you?" Hinata asked.
"I doubt it. If Sakura is with them and she knew, there would already be trouble in the village as she would likely be tearing it apart to find and pummel me," he said with a slight shiver. "What should we do if it is for nothing more than a trade agreement and treaty?"
"It would not be a problem and I'm sure they would understand, if they knew about the truth of us," Hinata spoke trying to think about the best approach.
Naruto shook his head, "I don't think that is a good choice right now. I want to keep the people that know of our existence down to a minimum. I don't want to deny a trade agreement that would help both lands, but I cannot allow an agreement that would give our identities or vital information to anyone at this point in time".
Looking at Naruto with admiration for how far he had come in the game of politics, "That only leaves us with two solutions then. The first one is to deny any form of agreement, that would likely lead to some form of hostility. The second would be to amend an agreement to only divulge the most basic of information. I'm sure that wouldn't be ideal, but it would be better than nothing".
"That would probably be for the best. The meeting is for tomorrow morning. I have set them up at the inn until then," he said while moving close to Hinata for a tender embrace.
Hinata leaned into his chest, always cherishing the way it felt when he held her. "I guess I will get ready for tomorrow then".
Naruto shook his head once more, "No, I will handle this one on my own. I don't want to raise any suspicion, and with both of us there it may be a little more noticeable that Minato and Suki are not who they say they are. You just concentrate on your training and taking care of Kushi-chan. You also need to be careful around town as they are likely to spot you if you are in the same area".
Nodding her head in agreement, "I will be," she breathed in his scent.
Naruto kissed her on top of the head, "Don't train too hard either. I don't want to pass out in my bowl of ramen again". He thought back to a few weeks ago as Hinata pushed herself too far in her chakra exertion and drew upon his as well. She had pulled so much chakra from him that he had passed out during lunch with his head landing in a nearly empty bowl.
Hinata giggled at the memory of the scene the stand owner had described after it happened. With miso broth dripping from his face and noodles in his hair, he awoke trying to figure out what had happened to him.
With a playful sneer and a chaste kiss he vanished from sight, more than likely to get lunch and return to the office to complain some more about the paperwork that was sure to be consuming his desk. Hinata turned around and started to walk to where Tenten and Kushina were playing on the outstretched blanket to inform her about the recent events.
In the Marketplace
Sakura and Temari were walking around the marketplace, carrying a few bags when they sat down at a table in an open eatery. People were walking about the market, traversing from store to store while the two kunoichi looked at the bustling crowd. They had stopped at a couple of shops and bought a few things. At first they had planned on spending their own money to make their purchases, but word had traveled rapidly in the market places of their description and of them being important guest of the Uzukage. Even upon entering the first shop they were treated far above what their normal role in society would dictate. Once they were recognized any money they had tried to offer for payment was denied and they were often given more than what they asked for.
They had both purchased more formal attire for the dinner they were going to tonight, along with shoes and an actual purse to complete the outfits. Each had also picked up a few trinkets to adorn their places back in Konoha as a reminder of the trip here in Uzu. Waiting for their food to arrive, just a light snack until supper, they chatted about everything they had seen and experienced since their arrival.
Temari was trying to figure out how the Uzukage knew of Gaara's status as the Kazekage of Suna. She left the question open for Sakura to answer but when no answer came she looked to her pink haired friend, "Sakura, did you hear what I said?"
Sakura's attention was pulled to the end of the street and she had watched a slender woman walk across the road. She had long dark black hair that seemed to have a blue shimmer to it. Wearing attire that would befit someone who was a kunoichi, with a tight but un-constraining deep purple top, and loose lavender pants, the figure reminded her of a ghost from the past. From what Sakura could make out she had a motherly smile, and it was only accentuated by the small blond child she was carrying. Temari's voice pulled her out of her trance and back to the real world. Shaking her head lightly to clear the cobwebs, Sakura then resumed the conversation with her company.
Later That Evening
The four had returned to the inn and were currently making their way to their rooms. The dinner had been exquisite. It was some of the finest food of the local delicacies that the village had to offer. Sakura and Temari had insisted on dressing for the occasion and had worn the dresses they purchased earlier that day. Temari had worn a short dress that was dark blue and complimented a hair accessory she had also picked up. The dress stopped mid-thigh and had a shimmer to it that went back and forth to a dark green as if you were looking at the changing depths of the nearby ocean. At certain angles the dress even matched her eyes while hugging her body tightly. Being a strapless dress it accentuated her chest and often drew attention from other men that passed them by. The only person that didn't seem interested in the blonde's outfit and defined figure was her husband. That is what one would notice if they didn't know who Shikamaru was. Temari could tell though that her husband was taking quick glances and his eyes would often drop to her thighs that were half exposed. He always paid attention to her well defined legs and would often lie in bed caressing them after they made love.
Sakura had worn a long ankle length black dress with spaghetti straps. It had a split that ran along the right leg and stopped high on her thigh, where it hung loose from there down. From the thigh up it hugged her body as if it was painted on and moved with her. At the bottom of the dress was a decoration of small cherry blossom petals that appeared as if a slight breeze was blowing them across the hem.
They came to Shikamaru and Temari's room and bid them goodnight. The next room they crossed was Sakura's and the remaining two came to a stop. As Sakura started to bow and bid goodnight to Gaara he stepped forward and kissed her gently upon the lips. Giving in a little she returned the light kiss and pulled away quickly afterwards. Looking down a little she apologized, "I'm sorry Gaara-sama, but, it is still too soon".
"Please, would you just call me Gaara? You have more than earned that privilege," he paused. "You loved him that much?" it was more of a statement than a question though.
She shook her head, "That is the strangest part. It is not that I loved him, but I still love him," she said in exasperation. "I still cannot get rid of the feeling that he is going to return someday. I know it sounds childish, like a lost hope of a dream, but I cannot rid myself of this feeling".
"I feel like I understand," he said with a nod. "He was my first and only friend for a while. I began to think of him as my brother. His loss will undoubtedly be felt for decades in the hearts that held him close. But that does not mean that we should put our lives on hold because of his passing. You know him as well as I do, if not more, he would not want that".
"I know he wouldn't, but that still doesn't do me any good for the way I feel. In time I'm sure it will pass, and when it does I will let you know by returning your affection for me. If you cannot wait that long I will understand, but if you find that you can, please be patient with me," she said with a hint of remorse for the situation she had placed the young man in front of her in.
He lifted her head to look into her eyes, seeing tears welling there. "As you wish," he said with all the affection he could muster. "I will wait for that day". He placed a kiss on her forehead before stepping back. "Until then, goodnight Sakura-chan," he stated before turning and walking toward his own room.
Sakura walked into her suite and as the door closed behind her, she leaned against it with a sigh. The thought of what had just transpired while the voices of the past played through her mind like a waking nightmare. Slowing she crossed the living area to the large door that led out to the balcony. Opening the door and stepping out she leaned against the railing facing out to the night sky and the darkness of the sea. "So Naruto, what do you think? I know you would want nothing more than my happiness, as you always stated while we were growing up. I cannot shake off this feeling that you will be back some day though". She let out a long drawn breath at how funny she sounded. "Sounds like a childish dream doesn't it? I thought you would like to know I'm in Uzushiogakure right now though. Lady Tsunade gave me a quick briefing before we came here and a little bit of a history lesson. Did you know this is where your clan and family came from? Bet you never even knew you came from a clan. Supposedly they were one of the most powerful clans of their time. They even ran this whole village before it was destroyed". Sakura was speaking with a little more excitement as if she was really talking to the blonde about something she was interested in. "Many villages and clans feared their power, and that is why they were targeted," she said in a somber tone. "But now there is a man here that has taken up the mantle of your forefathers and rebuilt the village. From what we can tell he is well liked, and has treated us well while we have been here".
"You would love the view of the village at night. The lights are bright and there are people still out enjoying everyone's company and shopping. If I was not a citizen of Konoha, I would love to live here. It is truly a special place". She turned from the view and her cheeks were moist from a few tears that had fallen during her conversation with a ghost from the past. She walked back into her suite and made her way to her bedroom. Carefully she removed her dress and packed it away in her baggage while getting out her night clothes. After getting ready for bed she crawled beneath the covers and closed her eyes, wondering, if she would have that dream again that often accompanied her sleep. A dream where there was a happy Naruto still alive and married, to Hinata. They were having a baby and he would depend upon the pink haired friend in an emergency, that he trusted her wholly.
Out on the roof of the inn stood a man in a flowing while cloak that was decorated with waves and the symbols of the village of Uzu. With his blonde hair waving in the breeze of the ocean he listened closely to the voice of the pink haired woman standing on her balcony. When he heard her step back inside and close the door behind her he started to walk away, "Good night Sakura-chan," was all he said.
The Next Day
Naruto was in the office early as he wanted to set things up for the guest that would be arriving for their meeting. Two extra cushioned chairs were brought in to accommodate four, a plate of treats were set out to snack on in case the meeting drew out later than anticipated, and a kettle of water was on a plate warmer to keep it hot for tea. Much of this was done for appearances, as Naruto would have chosen to just sit at the local diner, eating and talking amongst themselves. Today on the other hand, he had to play the role of Uzukage and keep up appearances. He even went as far as taking most of the paperwork, that seemed to breed like rodents, and placed then on Hinata's desk.
Teach her for leaving me here to handle this by myself while she is off training in one of the training grounds again, he thought to himself. He wasn't sore about it, he had requested that she do so, as it would be harder to maintain the illusion if they were both present. People might ask more questions than they could keep straight on the spot. It still wouldn't stop him from teasing her about it though.
Naruto was sitting at his desk going through some of the paperwork and either approving or denying requests made by those around the village when Akane gently knocked on the door. "Uzukage-sama, your guests have arrived".
"Please show them in Akane-san," he responded shortly. It was now or never and he gritted his teeth and hoped for the best. Less than a minute later four people entered the office and walked up to his desk. Naruto stood and addressed them all with a slight bow. "Welcome honored guests. My name is Minato Saisei and I am the Uzukage of Uzushiogakure. It is wonderful to have you all here to meet me today".
Shikamaru stepped forward and Naruto could clearly tell that he was trying not to smile or chuckle at the formalities that were on display, especially since it was the blonde knucklehead that was going to keep up the façade. "It is a pleasure to see you again Uzukage-sama. I would like to introduce my travel companions that have come here to speak with you". Gesturing to Temari, "This is Temari Nara, my wife. Standing next to her is her brother Gaara of the Sand, and Kazekage of Sunagakure, and next to him is the protégé of the Lady Hokage, Sakura Hurano". Each person bowed at their introduction and waited to be asked to be seated.
"Please be seated. With the formalities out of the way, we can get right down to business, that way you may be able to enjoy your stay here in Uzu". Naruto noticed each person had a strange look on their face as it seemed as though they were trying to take in as much detail about him as possible. Naruto was not forthcoming with it either, as he wore his mask and kept his Kage hat on and low. "I trust you have been enjoying your stay so far?"
Gaara finally spoke up, "It has been a most wonderful experience. Your village has such a lively and vibrant feel Uzukage Saisei".
"Please you may all call me Minato if you wish. I was never one for titles and the excessive honorifics may go to my head, as my wife has been so happy to point out". Naruto didn't know why, but he felt a little funny having his friends speaking to him in such a manner.
Sakura had been studying the Uzukage since she had entered the office. There wasn't much to take notice from what she could see. He wore a mask similar to the one her sensei Kakashi wore and his hat remained low on his head. This only really revealed his piercing blue eyes. There was not much to make out from his clothing either as most of it was covered from the Uzukage robe that he wore. "Speaking of you wife, I was hoping we could meet her as well," Sakura spoke up inquiringly.
"She is out in one of the training fields right now. We have recently had a child and she has been spending a lot of her time there getting back into shape," Naruto stated dryly.
"I would like to discuss with you the possibility of a trade agreement between our two villages, and the reasoning behind the lack of response for such request that my village has made," Gaara interjected getting the meeting underway.
Naruto had noticed the change in tone in Gaara's voice, becoming serious. Naruto had wondered what caused the change and if this meeting for a trade agreement was that necessary to Suna. "Ah yes, we have received letters from Suna. But I am afraid you have come all this way for nothing on that matter".
"Why is that Minato-san? I made sure I proposed nothing more than an average agreement for trade interactions," Gaara said in disbelief.
"Along with your trade agreement is a request for very sensitive information and a treaty we may not be able to comply with considering the young age of the village," Naruto returned.
Gaara was unsure about what this additional information was as all he asked for was a simple trade agreement. "Let's see if we can come up with a compromise then, shall we. What are the requests in the letters that you received?"
Naruto pushed around some papers that still remained on his desk until he found what he was looking for, "It says here in an official form, that the treaty you seek is an unconditional assistance treaty. That would be to include support by our village to yours in any military action that you may ever be involved in. That would be to include any actions that the people here or myself deem inappropriate. That would put us in a precarious situation if you would say, have a dispute with Konohagakure who is also a trade partner with us as well".
Gaara was at a loss for words. That form of treaty was not typical in the least. He would have never sent that request. "May I see the letter you received?"
Naruto passed the request to Gaara so he may look over it again. While he did so Naruto continued, "There is also a request for information that is really concerning. The request is for vital information that includes information on all of our trade partners and the capital generation that comes from those agreements. There is also requested information on all of our available resources present here and on the island. A request for such information leaves the motives for such an agreement in question. There is also no give on the part of your village, Suna, for any such information. Along with that there is no such availability of guarantees of an equal trade benefit for both villages".
Gaara had done something he had not done in many years; he hung his head in shame. He realized, after reading the missive, what the Uzukage was talking about. The requests that were made were done so on the behalf of the Suna council. Those were topics of conversation while he delegated with the council to form an agreement. He had shot them all down as possible hindrances to a trade agreement that Suna needed so badly. The council had included them in anyways in their own effort to garner a more favorable advantage for his village. They had humiliated him in front of another Kage, and directly disobeyed his wishes when finalizing the draft. Inside he was furious and he would deal with them strictly upon his return.
"I am truly sorry for this Minato-san. This was never my intention when I met with my council to draft a trade agreement. I would greatly appreciate if we could forget that these documents ever existed and here and now we can formulate an agreement between our two villages".
Thinking for a moment about what would change he agreed. "Consider it done. From this point on we will start anew with an agreement we make here".
Gaara let out a sigh of relief that there would be no permanent damage from the council's greed for power over the new village. "I am happy to hear such generosity, thank you. Shall we begin with the possibility of a peace treaty then?"
"The treaty in and of itself should not be all that difficult. What we are willing to offer is the same we laid out on the table for Konoha. A simple non-aggression treaty agreed upon by both sides". In all reality Naruto wish he could offer more in the way of a treaty, but currently that was not possible. "As you may have noticed, despite the village being restored, or population is still low and we are currently finite on available forces. To be called upon for assistance for any large scale action would leave us nearly defenseless".
"Surely you would wish for something more though. If your village was threatened in any way, would you not want assistance?" Gaara said, offering a hand.
"With our current forces and abilities we are capable of defending the core of the village without outside assistance, even if we had several teams away on missions. The offer is a generous one, but I am afraid we could not reciprocate should the need arise. Uzu has already fallen once, and although I happened upon my current position by chance, I will not allow it to fall again while I still breathe," he said with pride and resolution.
Gaara could feel the resolution in the Uzukage's words. There was a determination there that so few people had. "I know the feeling of wanting to protect your village as I have developed a sense of home within my own. I can agree on that part of the treaty as I see you would not put any undue stress on the safety of your citizens. I would like the opportunity though to allow our lands to work together through a means of mission requests though. I feel that having that option on the table could greatly benefit both villages considering the distances between us".
It was an offer that he had left out of the treaty signed with Konoha, but it was a great offer now that the village forces were increasing. Having the extra revenue stream would do well for the coffers. It would also benefit his shinobi by being capable of doing missions outside of the island with increasing frequencies in mission requests. This would give them a greater understanding of the world around them that they never had before.
"It would make a wonderful opportunity for us as well as for you. This would be acceptable, but I must also speak with those in Konoha before this measure can go further, as for us to do missions in each other's lands I must get permission for my shinobi to cross the Land of Fire," said Naruto. "That should settle about all there is in the way of peace treaty for now and the details can be fine-tuned later. Now, let us move onto the negotiations of trade".
"I was looking to have a delegate who can handle trade negotiations placed within your city with the approval of the agreement. They would be able to speak for Suna in matters that involve our economies".
Naruto shook his head, "I'm sorry, but that is not an option at this time".
"Am I wrong in assuming that Konoha has two such delegates here in Uzu for just such a matter?" Naruto shook his head again. "Then why would we be denied the same courtesy?"
"There are extenuating ties between Konoha and Uzu. If you have noticed that the shinobi wear our symbol on their uniforms," Naruto stated. Everyone was looking to Shikamaru, who just shrugged his shoulders. On his shoulder was a white swirl pattern, and everyone was trying to figure out the significance to this. "That symbol there belongs to the Uzumaki clan, who were the founding force of Konoha".
"The Senju clan is the one that founded Konoha, along with the Uchiha clan," Sakura piped in remembering her lessons from the academy.
"That may be what they taught you but it is far from the truth. It is true that the Senju and Uchiha clans were the first two clans of Konoha, but they did not have the resources to build a village by themselves. The Senju extended a hand for assistance to their cousins, to the Uzumaki, for assistance. In the beginning the Uzumaki provided materials, financial support, and the security. For doing so the Uzumaki clan was honored with the addition of the Uzumaki patch to the uniform". Naruto remembered his lessons as well and was very disappointed at the lack of truth being taught. It was to hide Naruto from the world when he was young and was removed from teaching after the third Hokage's law was passed.
Thinking about this Sakura wondered why something so important was kept out of their studies. "But that was over a century ago. What does that have to do with today? It is not like you owe any loyalty to the Uzumaki. There are no more alive".
"Who says they are all dead? Why would you assume that I am not a descendant of that clan," Naruto stated.
"I watched the last Uzumaki die," Sakura said quietly, with tears threatening to well in her eyes.
"That still does not mean that I could not be related som…" Naruto went quiet and the sky outside seemed to darken. He turned his attention to the window and everyone did the same. Outside the sun seemed to give off a little less light, there was a developing pink hue to the sky.
Guren, Naruto thought. Something was happening and with that signal it could be very disastrous.
Naruto looked back at his four guests and smiled under his mask, "Excuse me please." In a white flash Naruto disappeared from sight, leaving everyone baffled at how and where he had gone.
On the Edge of the Village Outskirts
Guren was standing out on the outskirts looking to the north, waiting for any signal that the invaders were getting close. To her left Naruto appeared and removed his kage hat and mask.
"Guren what is going on?" he asked quickly.
"There are reports that four people are invading the island from the north Minato-sama," she was in disbelief at the information.
Thinking it strange to warrant such a defense for four people trying to sneak in the village, "Then what is with the crystal dome? Four people should not give us a lot of trouble".
Shaking her head with a little fear in her eyes, she remembered the look in the eyes of one of the intruders as he slaughtered people on the battlefield. "The description in the reports leads me to believe it is Sasuke Uchiha".
Naruto's jaw dropped, he never expected to see Sasuke on the island. "Get the villagers to the main part of the village. I will seal it when everyone is inside. Do not have anyone engage them. I will handle them myself". Naruto flashed away again, leaving Guren to follow his orders.
At the Training Field
Hinata was resting a little after practicing her taijutsu forms. Naruto appeared just as she took notice of the crystal dome overhead.
Naruto had a worried look on his face and Hinata adopted the same one. "What is going on Naruto-kun?" she asked.
"Sasuke is on the island. I don't know if they discovered us or if they are here for something else. It is time to end this once and for all though".
Hinata could see the determination on his face. Deep seated concern crossed hers, "Is there any other way to handle this Naruto-kun?"
"No, I'm afraid there isn't. This has been a long time coming. Even if there was, we would have to face each other eventually". He kissed Hinata deeply, hoping she would understand. "Hinata-chan, I need you to tell Neji what is going on and have him meet me at the northern outskirts of the village. After that take Tenten-chan and Kushi-chan and go to the vault. You know the drill".
Hinata nodded, "Just be careful ok, Naruto-kun".
Naruto nodded and disappeared in a flash.
A short while later after informing Neji of what Naruto had said they arrived inside the Uzumaki main house. Hinata Kneeled down in one of the offshoot rooms and pricked her finger. Putting her hand to the floor and pumping some chakra into it the floor slid open revealing the entrance to the underground vault. She led Tenten down the stairs, as she was holding Kushina. Tenten gaped in wonder as she had never seen this before. Hinata took Kushina hugging her tightly and kissed her forehead. Handing her back to Tenten she spoke quickly.
"Tenten-chan, there is enough food down here for months and there are rooms to rest down the hallways. If no one has opened up the sealed door in five days, take this," She handed Tenten a vial with a red liquid in it. "Put this on your hand and place it to the doorway. Put a little chakra to it and it will open. Run as fast as you can back to Konoha and let them know what has happened". Hinata hugged them both once again and ran back out the entrance sealing it once again. Tenten stood there in awe and shock over what was happening. She knew this was best, but she couldn't stop the tears in her eyes, for not being able to help her friends.
In the Uzukage Office
The four visitors had been sitting there for some time since the Uzukage disappeared. They were talking amongst themselves about what had just happened, concern on their faces, hoping everything was ok. In a white flash the Uzukage appeared behind them. Everyone turned in their seat to look at the man behind them. Gaara, Temari, and Sakura all gaped at Naruto with disbelief in their eyes.
"I know there is a lot of explaining to do, but now is not the time, we have an emergency. Gaara, your request for a treaty has been approved and the trade agreement with your delegates will be approved as well. I don't see a need to hide the information anymore as my enemies will surely know I am still alive after what transpires here today".
Barely able to process what was said Sakura shouted at him, "You're supposed to be dead?"
Sighing deeply he held up his hand and his fingers started to glow with a faint purple light. Placing his hand upon her head, "Release!" he said. With that Sakura collapsed into the chair. "Gaara, can you please pick her up. She will be fine in a few moments, and we will need her help".
Gaara shook his head and did as Naruto asked. "I hope you have a good explanation for what has been going on my friend. I would demand to know now, but it seems something has happened that will have to put that on hold".
"Sasuke is on the island and he is heading this way. He has his team with him and that could only spell trouble for the village," Naruto responded quickly. "Now everyone hold hands, and try not to throw-up". When they did so Naruto clasped his hand on Gaara's shoulder and in a flash they were gone from the office.
Northern Outskirts
The group appeared near a large stone at the northern edge of the village. Naruto released the group and they began to wobble as they tried to get their bearings. He looked around and saw Hinata running toward them with Neji right behind her.
"Hinata-hime, you are supposed to be in the vault with Tenten-Chan, and Kushi-chan," he said with a sour tone.
Hinata came to a stop in front of him shaking her head. "I will be by your side no matter what Naruto-kun. I will not leave you alone to face him by yourself".
"But if something were to happen to the both of us, it would leave Kushi-chan alone," he remembered his childhood of being alone and wouldn't want that life for anyone.
"You were alone when you were born and you are the greatest man I have ever known. Not all things can be bad even in the most dire of circumstances. If she turns out anything like you than she will be just as great". She stood defiantly.
Realizing Hinata was not going to bend, he embraced her, "At least she will be just as beautiful as you". He kissed her gently, just as they heard a gasp. Naruto looked over and saw Gaara helping to steady Sakura onto her feet.
"Naruto and Hinata are alive," she looked around as the memories came flooding back. She saw the young couple in an embrace and pointed to both of them, "I was there! I saw you give birth, I helped! Neji was there also, along with Tenten. Hinata, you died, and Naruto brought you back". Sakura brought her trembling hand to her lips and touched them softly. Quietly she whispered, "I kissed Naruto".
Hinata let go of Naruto and embraced Sakura, "Thank you so much for what you did. If it wasn't for you I would not be able to be here for my family. I owe you a great deal Sakura-chan. I will keep my word and you do not have to worry about kissing Naruto, you get a pass on that". She leaned in close to Sakura's ear and spoke so only she could hear, "But do not make the same mistake twice, as I will not be forgiving again". Hinata giggled lightly as she pulled away to stand next to Naruto. Sakura in awe and the promise that Hinata's tone carried, could only nod.
Naruto had his eyes closed and was concentrating, pushing out the things that were happening in front of him. When he opened his eyes, he had undergone a transformation. His pupils had horizontal slits, and orange rimmed the outer edges, Naruto was in sage mode. He quickly summoned up a few shadow clones, and they jumped off into the distance. Naruto turned around and saw Guren standing there. "Are they all inside?" he asked.
"Yes, Naruto-sama." She reported plainly.
"Get the women, children, and elderly down to the docks in the event there needs to be an evacuation". Naruto saw her bow and turn to follow his orders. When she was clear of the area Naruto slammed his hand near the large stone and symbols started to appear, covering the stone. In an instant light shot from the stone and began to wind its way through the streets of Uzu. When all the streets were alight, a large circular dome appeared around the main center of the village, protecting the people inside.
Naruto turned back around and began to give instructions. "There appear to be four of them that make up Sasuke's team. They have split up one has gone to the east and another to the west. Two are coming down the center to this exact spot. More than likely the two other males are the ones that are flanking the village. Do not underestimate them. We will separate into three groups I will stay here and face Sasuke, while the rest of you besides Shikamaru go to face the other two. Hinata, you, Sakura, and Neji will go east, while Gaara and Temari head west. I will try to finish him off quickly and then I will back you up as quickly as I can. If I sense you are in danger, I will send Shikamaru as back up."
"Sasuke's here?" Sakura shouted. There was look of dread and horror in her eyes.
"Yes," Naruto said. "I guess I will fulfill my promise to you after all Sakura. Unfortunately, I don't think he will be alive when I return him to you," Naruto said with a smile.
Sakura nodded with a great amount of sadness in her heart. Not that she still loved Sasuke any longer, but because her friend was going to have to be the one that would end their old teammate's life.
Naruto looked around his group of friends and smiled, "Please be careful everyone. Do not make any reckless moves and watch each other's backs". He kissed Hinata one last time. "Everyone head out!" They all took off into their respected directions to face their opponents.
Shikamaru walked up behind Naruto, "It sounds like a sound plan my friend. Are you sure we can do this?"
Believing in his friends abilities is all he had at the moment, he nodded. "We have to; there is no other option at this time. Shikamaru, more than likely the girl is accompanying Sasuke. Engage her; do not attempt to make a move on Sasuke though. Keep an ear out also for me. If something happens to any of the others do not hesitate in going to them and leaving me here to face both of them alone".
Without a single word shared between them, there was an agreement made, that Shikamaru would do just that. Naruto wanted his friends protected beyond himself. They stood there waiting for their opponent to come into view.