A/N: Whoa, It took me quite a while to finish this chapter, longer than I anticipated but alas, it is done. I probably won't be able to post new chapters as frequently as I have done before because I simply don't have the time to write as I'll like. I'll try to find some time and keep posting chapter when I can so the next few chapter updates will be sporadic at best and there will be couple of hiatus along the way whenever I'm stuck or having a writer's block. However, I WILL finish this story if it's the last thing I do.
Ohh before I forget, there's a time difference between Japan and Britain. Japan is at least nine hours ahead, but in order to made it easier for me there's not going to be a time difference because when I was writing this chapter I completely forgot. So yeah...
Q/A:
To AJ Picard: The reason I picked Itachi over Sasuke is because there's too much animosity between Raiden and Sasuke for them to be in a relationship. Right now, Sasuke hates Raiden because Raiden had a better relationship with his father than he ever did and his father approved of Raiden. Eventually, Raiden and Sasuke will become friends or at least allies but until then Sasuke will resent Raiden. I hope that answers your question.
To ThomasNealy: Most of your comments relates towards the funky timeline in this story because I decided to push everything back two years and of course it will mess with the whole Naruto timeline. The reason I decided to push everything back was because I wanted every future Genin to be ready for anything they'll encounter in their ninja careers. From what I remember, the Academy teaches their students tactics & strategy, how to handle ninja weapons & ninja tools, basic theory of chakra & hand seals, basic Taijutsu, Ninjutsu and Genjutsu skills. Not to mention their core/general classes as well. They would stay in the Academy for two years and then graduate, however I decided to add an additional two years where they'll learn other useful skills, which are optional, a student can choose to take the exam at the end of their second year and forgo the additional two years, or they can stay for an additional two years and then graduate.
For the additional two years, the students are taught Healing Ninjutsu & Medicinal Arts to teach basic healing skills they might need in the future, as well as to scout for potential Medical-nin and orient them. They teach basic Fuuinjutsu and other sealing skills, and Spy & Infiltration tactics to scout for potential ANBU candidates.
Now, regarding Naruto's monologue back in chapter 2 (I think). I mention that Naruto has already managed to fail twice and was already on his last leg before he'll be banned from becoming a shinobi. In this story, Naruto was seven years old when he entered the Academy and decided to take the exam after two years because he wanted to graduate as soon as possible, but he failed. He later was given another chance a week after his pervious exam and he took it, but failed once again. He met Raiden during the summer and became best friends; they trained to together with the help of Inu, Kuma, Neko, and Okami during their years in the Academy. (They stayed for the four years, alongside Sakura, Sasuke, Chouji, Ino, Shikamaru, Kiba, Hinata, and Shino. Neji, Tenten, and Rock Lee took their exam early and got Maito Gai as their Team Captain.)
By now, Raiden is eleven years old turning twelve in couple of days, and Naruto is thirteen until October where he'll be fourteen. All of the key points in the Naruto timeline will happen, but they'll be slightly different than the cannon; such as the Uchiha Massacre.
The Chakra theory is a little old in this story because in order for Raiden to use his Mokuton and Souton, he needed to have Earth and Water affinities but he doesn't. I was going to have him have those, but then I paused and thought how the Jyuubi no Okami would've affected his Chakra affinities. If the Jyuubi no Okami was never sealed within Raiden, he would have had Earth, Water and Wind, but since the Jyuubi was sealed within him, it changed him and gave him Fire and Lightning; replacing the Water and Earth since the Jyuubi is stronger. Raiden has access to his Earth and Water affinities to use his Mokuton and Souton, but they aren't strong enough to use them individually.
The reason I made the Shadow clones seem more like summons is because it would've been confusing during the fight, especially when they were talking to teach other during the fight with Naruto's clones: which is the reason I named Raiden's clones, and gave them a piece of Raiden's personality to tell them apart from each other.
Naruto has the same ability with the chakra chains is mother had, (the chains that she can summon at will) but he hasn't mastered it yet because he just unlocked the Uzumaki Rage. In time he'll be able to use it like Kushina did, but until then, he'll be able to summon them whenever he's experiencing high emotion such as rage, and grief. He does, however, have a set of his mother's metal chains which were forged to help the user imbue their own chakra into the chains
And finally, there's a difference between Sages and Summoners. In this story, there could only be one human Sage per animal contract, whoever will become the sage he/she will go through countless trials and have been seen as worthy by the Animal Elders and Chief to be given the title of being their Sage. A summoner, on the other hand, is a person who has signed the animal contract scrolls and is able to summon whatever animal the contract belongs to. And a person could only hold two or three animal contracts at a time.
From what I recall, Jiraya and Minato were the only ones, beside Naruto, to sign the Toad Contract. Tsunade signed the Slug Contract. Orochimaru, Kabuto, and Sasuke signed the Snake Contract. I know Juugo when to the Ryuuchi Cave to learn how to use his Kekkei Genkai, which is to absorb natural energy, but he failed to use the Sage mode properly which would've meant he signed the Snake contract as well
In my story, Jiraya is the current Toad Sage, Tsunade is the current Slug Sage, and Orochimaru was the Snake Sage until the Snake Elders saw what he was doing and took his title away, he's still able to summon snakes and use the sage mode but it altered his body making him took more like a snake.
Naruto will become the Kitsune Sage and a Toad Summoner, Raiden will become the Okami Sage and a Kitsune Summoner, Sasuke will become a Sake Sage and a Hawk Summoner, and finally Sakura will become a Slug Sage.
I hope I manage to answer your questions/concerns regarding my story!
To Tamashiyuki: I won't be abandoning this story anytime soon and I will finish this; however, there will be times I'll be taking couple of breaks to deal with writer's blocks or I'm simply too busy with life to write. But fear not, this story will be completed eventually.
To Kurayami Kazou Riddle: Yeah I'll be adding their STAT's and I also added another category: Bukijutsu(Weapon Arts such as how to use Kunai, Shuriken, staves, etc…), and the X-factor. These are the Pre-Chuunin Exam STAT's. They are ranked from 0-10: 0 being the lowest in said category and 10 being the highest in said category.
P.S. I'm glad you've been enjoying this story!
Senju-Potter Raiden (Genin)
Ninjutsu: 5
Taijutsu: 4
Genjutsu: 3.5
Bukijutsu: 4
Kenjutsu: 4
Medical- Ninjutsu: 3
Fuuinjutsu: 3.5
Chakra Reserves: 6
Chakra Control: 5.5
Intelligence: 5
Strength: 4.5
Speed: 3
Stamina/Endurance: 4
Hand Stamps: 4
X-Factor: 4
The reason as to why Raiden has high scores all around it's because of couple of different factors. One would be his Mokuton and Souton. The fact that he has two types of Kekkei Genkai; rather than just one would raise his Ninjutsu arsenal drastically compared to others his age. Another factor would be the Jyuubi no Okami, by having a tailed demon sealed within Raiden it has increased his physical attributes (Taijutsu, Chakra Reserves, Strength, and Stamina), as well as expand his chakra reserves exponentially compared to others. The last factor would be his magic, as his X-factor, it'll become stronger as he trains how to use his magic properly.
Uzumaki Naruto (Pre-Genin)
Ninjutsu: 2
Taijutsu: 1.5
Genjutsu: 1
Bukijutsu: 1.5
Kenjutsu: 0
Medical- Ninjutsu: 0
Fuuinjutsu: 0
Chakra Reserves: 3
Chakra Control: 1.5
Intelligence: 2.5
Strength: 2
Speed: 3.5
Stamina/Endurance: 4
Hand seals: 1
X-Factor: 2
Prior to the four years of training Naruto went through with Raiden, his scores were extremely low because he lacks the skills and focus necessary to become a well-rounded Shinobi. He lacked in all aspects with the exception of his Speed and Stamina due to being chased regularly around Konoha by angry civilians, or because of the pranks.
Uzumaki Naruto (Genin)
Ninjutsu: 4
Taijutsu: 5
Genjutsu: 2.5
Bukijutsu: 3
Kenjutsu: 2.5
Medical- Ninjutsu: 1.5
Fuuinjutsu: 2.5
Chakra Reserves: 5
Chakra Control: 3.5
Intelligence: 3.5
Strength: 3.5
Speed: 5
Stamina/Endurance: 5
Hand seals: 4
X-Factor: 3
After the four years of training Naruto went through, his physical and mental ability have increased (Ninjutsu, Taijutsu, Strength, Speed, and Stamina). Naruto has grown as a person thanks to the training and Raiden. His scores are still low because the Kyuubi no Kitsune is still sleeping, but once the Kyuubi wakes up his scores will increase matching Raiden's. Naruto's X-factor is the Uzumaki Rage which will enable him to summon chakra chain at will. He hasn't yet mastered how to use them since he just unlocked them. Also, Naruto's magic is still locked right alongside the Kyuubi no Kitsune.
Uchiha Sasuke (Genin)
Ninjutsu: 3.5
Taijutsu: 2.5
Genjutsu: 2.5
Bukijutsu: 2.5
Kenjutsu: 0
Medical- Ninjutsu: 0
Fuuinjutsu: 1.5
Chakra Reserves: 4
Chakra Control: 3.5
Intelligence: 3.5
Strength: 3
Speed: 3.5
Stamina/Endurance: 3
Hand seals: 3
X-factor: 2.5 (5 after the Sharingan is activated)
Haruno Sakura (Genin)
Ninjutsu: 2.5
Taijutsu: 2
Genjutsu: 3.5
Bukijutsu: 2.5
Kenjutsu: 0
Medical- Ninjutsu: 4
Fuuinjutsu: 2.5
Chakra Reserves: 3
Chakra Control: 4.5
Intelligence: 4
Strength: 2
Speed: 2.5
Stamina/Endurance: 1.5
Hand seals: 2
X-factor: 2
Sakura's scores are relatively low at the beginning because she isn't serious and is taking being a Kunoichi a joke, as a way to be closer to Sasuke. While she may have excellent chakra control, showing promise in Medical-Ninjutsu and she is smart; she's too infatuated with Sasuke to become stronger. Until she realizes there are other things other than Sasuke, her scores will suffer. Sakura's Inner Sakura Mode prevents any sort of mental attack to affect her, making Sakura immune to mental attacks.
Hatake Kakashi (Jounin)
Ninjutsu: 10
Taijutsu: 9.5
Genjutsu: 9
Bukijutsu: 6
Kenjutsu: 8.5
Medical- Ninjutsu: 5
Fuuinjutsu: 7
Chakra Reserves: 6
Chakra Control: 5.5
Intelligence: 10
Strength: 8.5
Speed: 9.5
Stamina/Endurance: 7.5
Hand Seals: 10
X-factor: 8
Kakashi's X-Factor: Kakashi's ability to use the Sharingan eye, it has given him the ability to increase not only his physical attributes, but read, predict, and or copy his enemies move's and jutsu, increasing his own arsenal of jutsu. However, using his Sharingan for an extend amount of time; it will drain his stamina more than usual.
To Mikurocks1234: Raiden will the Seme (Top) of his harem, or at least that's what I have planned. He might have couple of Uke (Bottom) moments, but he'll definitely be the Seme (Top).
["Demon talking to it's host (through a mental link)"]
/ Demon talking by possessing it's host/
'Thoughts'
{Different language}
Chapter Eleven: The Shogun of Japan
July 30th , 1992, 12:30 a.m.
Ministry of Magic, Okinawa, Japan
Kato Ryuichi, the current Minister of Japan and Shogun of Japan was sitting in his office enjoying a nice cup of green tea as he stared at the man in front of him, or should he say, the magical creature in front of him. He knew that the Kitsune in front of him wasn't just any ordinary Kitsune; no, this one was extremely powerful. He could feel the unsaturated magic come off him in waves, power hiding just underneath his skin waiting to come out.
When the Kitsune first requested a meeting with him, he had to say he was surprised. He knew kitsunes usually kept away from humans and wouldn't normally go out of their way to talk with them or wizards for that matter, yet this one asked if he could meet with him.
At first glance, the Kitsune didn't look all that dangerous. The Kitsune in question was in his human form, he stood around 5'8" give or take an inch or two, he's rather lithe and slender with ethereal beauty that surrounded him. His skin was pale white, not sickly white or pasty, but a beautiful alabaster white which would put the precious moonstone to shame. His hair was inky black, which cascaded down to his lower back, kept in a long pony tail. His eyes were almond shaped and dark chocolate brown, his facial structure was soft and delicate, almost fae-like in appearance.
Overall the man was beautiful, and easily could be mistaken for a female due to his soft, curvy figure. But Ryuichi knew better, the man may look harmless and may seem like a delicate flower, but his eyes told another story. His eyes were the eyes of a warrior, someone who've experienced war and lived to tell the tale. He moves gracefully, vulpine-like as he maneuvered around the room, but with wary eyes as he scouted the room taking every little detail in and stored away. It was clear the man was a warrior.
He later learned the Kitsune was named Akitoshi, and the reason he wanted to meet with him was because he was looking for two people in particular, or should he was two clan heirs. Akitoshi explained that he was from another dimension, a dimension where people didn't have magic; with the exception of a few, and instead magic the human had something called chakra. A slight variation of magic, in which a person could bend the five elements at their will; if they possess the affinity to do so, which included: Fire, Air, Water, Earth, and Lighting. Of course, there were other possible nature manipulations, but they were considered rare, such as Ice, Lava, Wood, and etc...
Unlike magic; chakra couldn't bend the laws of natures as magic could, but instead it can be used to alter the human capacities: such as run at unimaginable speeds, or increase raw strength by simply channeling the chakra into the desired body part. He explained how everyone had chakra coils no matter how big or small the coil may be: everything living had chakra coils and how there were two types of people. Those who used their chakra and trained became ninjas at a young age or civilians and never train their chakra coils.
Those who followed the ninja way either became Shinobi and kunoichi over their respective village and were trained to protect their village with their life. They were trained at a young age to become killers, if needed. It wasn't an easy life, but it was a life choice. You cannot be forced to become a ninja.
Akitoshi explained there were certain families who had special skills and/or abilities when were specific to their bloodline, which set them apart from regular Shinobi, making them clans. The clans were similar to their vision of pureblood families, and were respected in their own village, but they also became a target to their villages for their skills and abilities. The clans usually held a large finical and political control within the village, and were part of a council which determined the ongoing on their village, with a single person, a Kage, who was the sole leader of the entire village.
Ryuichi found the dimension quite fascinating, especially considering how it seemed to be a version of feudal Japan. While they didn't have access to most modern conveniences; such as cars, guns, or airplanes. They did have others, which suited their everyday life. Akitoshi mention any technology not native to 'Elemental Nations', as the dimension was called, cannot be brought in or out as it'll be interfering with the timeline of said dimension.
After the lesson, Ryuichi helped Akitoshi with his quest and discovered that the clan heirs he was looking for were actually well-known wizards from Britain. The Kuro heir who he was searching was, in fact, Sirius Orion Black, the man who supposedly betrayed his best friend, James Potter and led Voldemort to their home in hopes to kill Harry Potter, but of course the child somehow manages to destroy Voldemort.
Harry Potter became the Boy-Who-Lived, and is known throughout the entire Wizarding world as the only person who has ever managed to survive the Avada Kedrva, the dreaded killing curse and destroy the Dark Lord whose influences crossed countless boarders. Ryuichi had a huge headache dealing with Death Eaters who manage to recruit some of his people to spread bigotry within the Japan borders, but after Voldemort's defeat they captured all Death Eaters and bounded their magic. The Americans, Canadians and other Eastern nations followed suit, removing all of Voldemort's supporters from their respective countries and bounded their magic. They weren't going to allow them to go free as the British did, they knew better than allow Death Eaters to roam free.
The Ryuusuke heir was a bit more difficult to locate, but luckily with the help of the goblins, they discovered that James Potter and Remus Lupin were in fact twin brothers and were Ryuusuke's heirs Akitoshi was looking for. It didn't take him long to gather their whereabouts and told Akitoshi, but not before asking if he knew where Harry Potter was. He suspected the Kitsune knew where the Boy-Who-Lived was hiding, he heard about how the British were going crazy trying to find their precious Savior, but haven't managed to locate him.
Akitoshi folded, he knew he wouldn't be able to find the heirs without the help of the Shogun and told him that they knew of a boy; who managed to travel into the Elemental Land going by the name of Raiden Senju-Potter. Immediately, Ryuichi asked to meet the child in return for his help to facilitate the retrieval of both heirs.
At first, Akitoshi resisted. But when Ryuichi explained what happened to the Kuro heir, he knew it would be impossible for him to go up there and snatch him. He traveled into the prison and felt the horrible creatures that roamed around, slowing sucking the life forces of the prisoners making them go insane. The prison was powerful and ancient wards that prevent the use of any magic with ten meters from the prison, blocking his magic.
The Kitsune agreed to Ryuichi's terms and left to alert his leader two days ago. And now, he right in front of him was two Kitsune, a masked man, and boy standing who appeared out of thin air within a fire cocoon. He smiled at his guest and conjured four chairs for them
"Please, take a seat. I've been waiting to meet you all." He gestured his guest with a genuine smile. "I'm Kato Ryuichi, the Minister of Japan's Magical Community, as well as the Shogun of Japan. Would any of you like something to drink?" He asked, they all shook their heads and thanked him for offering.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Shogun of Japan. I'm Shinzo, the Kitsune Chief and this is my friend and second in command, Tetsuo. This young man is Raiden Senju-Potter, and the man next to him goes by the name of Kuma, he's here in place of Raiden's Kage; who unfortunately, couldn't join us."
Ryuichi nodded, "It's a please to meet you all. I'm sure you all know the reason for this meet and I rather get to the point and beat around the bush." He stated bluntly, "As I've told your associate, Akitoshi, I wished to talk with you, Senju-Potter- san." He looked directly at the green eyes pre-teen. "I'm to assume you know of the role you played in the downfall of Voldemort, correct?" He asked the emerald eyed boy seriously.
Raiden nodded, "Yes, sir. I remember the day clearly as Voldemort cast the killing curse at me, but rebounded and hit him instead. And I understand I've become some sort of icon, which people saw me as a Savior for destroying Voldemort. Which I might add is a bit too extreme for them calling me a Savior, I simply got lucky." He told the Shogun truthfully. Ryuichi's eyebrows shot up, "you mean to tell me, you actually remember the night?" He asked the boy, surprised and stunned.
Raiden sighed, "I remember everything that happened that night and more, however before I tell you who I know, I think it'll be best if you can ward off this room. The information I'm about to tell you cannot be known outside these walls."
Ryuichi frowned, "It must be something huge… I agree, but what if we made a Wizard's oath as well?"
"Wizard's oath, what is that?" Raiden asked, confused. He looked towards Shinzo and Tetsuo, but they were confused as much as him.
The Shogun noticed their befuddled looks and explained what a wizard oath was. "A wizard's oath or vow is a verbal agreement, or a contract between individuals who are bound by their magic. It stops them from spilling secrets to others, unless they're given permission. If you break the oath or vow, your own magic will punish you and be locked away, stripped from you or worse death."
Taking Ryuichi's words into consideration, Raiden thought it was a great way to ensure everything he told Ryuichi would stay between them. "Okay, how do we make a wizard's oath?" Raiden asked.
Ryuichi smiled, "it's quite simple. All we have to do is shake the person's hands whom you're making with oath and state clearly: your full name, the oath or vow you're choosing to uphold and the person whom you're making the oath to."
Ryuichi took out his wand and extended his hand, which Raiden took. "I, Ryuichi Kato, the Shogun of Japan and Minister of Japan, hereby swear on my magic and life, to keep all secrets of Senju-Potter Raiden to myself, so mote be!" Ryuichi flicked his wand and a light ball of light erupted on the tip the wand before it dimmed and vanished.
Once the wizard's oath was made, Raiden told Ryuichi everything, including the existence of Matsu. Ryuichi sat there and listened intently to Raiden's story and he was shocked to hear the boy's life. He never expected the boy to be abused within the home, which, Albus Dumbledore, personally sent him, telling everyone Harry Potter was in a loving home. Not to mention, it was his own family who abused him. He was glad the boy was smart enough to leave that wretched place.
Hearing that the boy held an ancient demon within him was disturbing, to say so at least. However, the demon seemed to be fond of the boy and clearly has helped him, for that sole reason he isn't going to judge him or the demon. As long as they're not causing any problems, he doesn't care what they do.
Taking a last sip from his tea, Ryuichi cleared his throat. "Clearly, you fully know the position you are currently in, and Albus Dumbledore will stop at nothing at finding you and you aren't too keen of the man, are you?" Arching an eyebrow, he asked.
Raiden shook his head, "No sir, Albus Dumbledore has been planning out my life since he heard a prophecy from the Seer, who basically foretold I would be the one to vanquished Voldemort. He wants to use me as a pawn, a weapon of his own making to do this dirty work; he knows Voldemort will come back one day, thanks to his horocruxes, and he'll need me to destroy them. I would even go far to say he has manipulated other people throughout his lifetime. I know he tried manipulated my parents as well, you know what happened. He was the one who cast the Fidelius charm, and knew Peter Pettigrew was the secret keeper, yet my godfather was sent to Azkaban under false charge and never got an official hearing."
Ryuichi's hazel eyes twinkled brightly, he was glad Raiden is using his brain. He was tired of people believing everything Albus Dumbledore said like mindless sheep they were, especially all of the British wizards and Witches. "That is correct, your godfather, Sirius Black was taken directly to Azkaban with no hearing. He's from an ancient and powerful Pureblood family, yet Albus Dumbledore; the Chief Warlock, who's in charge of the Wizengamot didn't intervene nor pleaded for his freedom. I, myself found it curious as to why he didn't received one. Quite peculiar, if you asked me."
Shinzo and Tetsuo frown from the sidelines. They were angry at Albus Dumbledore, and understood why Raiden got angry when they told him the man was looking for him. It was clear to them Dumbledore was planning on disposing of Raiden when he doesn't have any use for him. However, they were disgusted when they heard of the Voldemort fellow; they couldn't believe the man dared pervert magic in order to make him immortal. Playing with the soul was a crime against magic, one that needed to be punished at the highest degree. Magic is a gift, not a birthright!
"Is it possible to call a hearing for Raiden's godfather?" Tetsuo asked wearily from the sidelines.
Ryuichi glanced at the Kitsune and nodded slowly. "There is, but it's not going to be simple. We'll need to find concrete evidence which proves Sirius Black's innocence. That's going to be the main obstacle we'll have to overcome, your word isn't going to weigh much and it'll put you in the spotlight. In the meantime, I can offer you political asylum in Japan and to protect you from Dumbledore and the British Ministry. They will stop at nothing trying to take you, claiming you need to be protected. As the matter of fact, I can give you citizenship in Japan, if you wished so." Ryuichi suggested. Raiden narrowed his eyes, scrutinizing Ryuichi's suggestion for any ulterior motives. "Not to be rude, sir. But why would you do such a thing?" He asked tensely.
Ryuichi smirked, "Glad you asked. The reason I'm choosing to help you is because we're after the same thing, we both want to bring Dumbledore down a peg or two. I'm tired of having the old geezer messing with our world, is been trying to mess with other countries, trying to make them follow him. If he isn't stop, he'll ruin the entire Wizarding World… And I will not allow my country to follow that manipulative old coot. So what do you say?"
Raiden chuckled, "I cannot agree without informing my Hokage first, as you know I'm a Shinobi of Konohagakure no Sato and my allegiance are to my village first, no matter how appealing your offer is. However, if you allow me some time to talk with my Hokage first, letting him know the situation we can come to an agreement." He rebutted.
Ryuichi nodded, "That's acceptable. Perhaps, I'll be able to meet with your Hokage. I have to admit I'm quite curious about your world." A small smile marred his face. Raiden looked over to Kuma, and the masked man nodded back. "That would certainly be possible, sir."
"Excellent!" Ryuichi clapped his hands, "Now, what about your education? Will be attending Hogwarts this upcoming year?" Ryuichi asked.
Raiden sighed, "Unfortunately, I cannot attend Hogwarts or any other school for the matter. I just became a Genin and I wish to continue the being a Shinobi. Shinzo has agreed to train my magic, but I don't have the time to continue my Shinobi career, undergo my mage training, and go to a magical school all at once. It's just too much for me to handle."
"Actually," Shinzo spoke out, "there is a way." He looked at Raiden, "As I can see, it'll be for the best if we create a golem for you Raiden and have him attend Hogwarts in your place. It will not only keep Dumbledore out of your hair, but as well as give you a chance you continue your Shinobi career and mage training. And if for whatever reason you'll be needed at Hogwarts, you'll be able to switch with your golem."
Ryuichi tapped his chin, "That might work," he commented lightly. "If you're going to go to Hogwarts, perhaps you should head over to England and stay there for the weekend to receive your Hogwarts letter. But, as soon as you have it you'll have to leave. Once Dumbledore knows you're attending Hogwarts, we'll stop at nothing to hunt you down."
Raiden bowed respectfully, "I thank you for your advice, Minister. It has proven to be invaluable, and as soon as I find evidence of Sirius innocence, I'll let you know once we're ready."
" Thank you for meeting with me, Senju-Potter-san"
"Please, call me Raiden, Minster. I'm sure we'll probably be talking quite frequently." Ryuichi smirked, "Only if you call be Ryuichi, Raiden. No more of this Minister or Shogun stuff." He paused, "I wish you the best of luck and know that Japan will always be happy to accept you and stand behind you. I'll be waiting for your Hokage's invitation. It's been a please to meet you all."
"We, thank you for your assistance in our search. If, for whatever reason you ever need anything, know that the kitsunes would gladly help you. Here," Shinzo handed him an obsidian shaped sphere. "This will let us know if you ever need our help, just place your hand over it and pulse your magic into it. It creates a window for us to communicate through the dimension." Ryuichi marveled at the intricate array of inscriptions around the surface of the sphere. He wished he knew what they said and how such an object was crafted. "Thank you, Lord Kitsune."
"No need, you've done nothing but being honest with us and you show goodwill towards my apprentice by offering safety within your borders. He will not have an easy life, not as long as this Dumbledore fellow is trying to use him as a weapon or Voldemort is trying to kill him. Not to mention there are some of Voldemort's minions out for his blood." Turning towards Raiden, he said. "You are not ready to go up against Dumbledore or Voldemort. They are far too powerful for you to handle magically, and politically speaking. It'll be for the best if you keep your head down and do what the headmaster, within reason, of course, act as his golden boy he wishes you to be for now. As the saying goes, keep your friends close, but your enemies closer."
Raiden tried to say something back, but he knew Shinzo was right. He wasn't ready to take either man down if he wished, he wasn't ready. He knew how to protect himself and keep himself safe thanks to his ninja training, but it wasn't enough. With a heavy sigh, Raiden agreed, "I know… I'll not try to go up against them until I finish my training, at least. But that doesn't mean I'll let them roll over me as they please. I'll learn their laws and my rights to use them for my benefit, preventing others from using me. I will not be, nor act ignorant for their sake's" Raiden stated.
Tetsuo guffawed loudly, making the other men in the room, let at him with the exception of Kuma, who snorted behind his mask. "Oh, they won't know what hit them, I kind of feel sorry for them. This brat here is a vindictive to the bone and vicious when angered. He won't let others using him for their gain and he'll fight dirty if he has too, while twisting laws and finding loopholes." He leaned forwards to ruffled Raiden's messy hair, he smiled at the pre-teen, "we should get going Raiden. We need to pick up your uncle."
January 30th, 1992, 10:00 a.m.
Senju Compound, Konohagakure, Hi no Kuni
Back within Konoha, a certain blonde haired teen was just waking up from his sleep. Sluggishly, he rubbed his eyes languidly, trying to fight off his own drowsiness before letting out a huge, jaw-breaking yawn which brought tears to his eyes. His bed covers fell off him, revealing his bare chest as his stretching out his arms, feeling the warm sunlight, heat up his skin as it peaked through his curtains. "Rai," the blonde haired teen called out to his friend, he waited for a couple of seconds for a reply but none came. Jumping off his bed, he shivered as he feet made contact with the cold wooden floor. He quickly grabbed his frog slippers and slipped them on. "Raiden, where are you?" He called out again, but still received no reply.
Not hesitating, he went outside his bedroom and open Raiden's door expecting to see his raven haired friend sleeping, but as he opened the door, Raiden wasn't anywhere to be seen. In fact, his bed was perfectly made as if he never slept on it the night before. He closed the door and ran towards the kitchen expecting Raiden to be cooking; but the table was empty, barren of any food.
Scrunching his eyebrows together, Naruto reached into the pantry and grabbed a box of cereal before taking a milk carton from the refrigerator. He grabbed a bowl from the cupboards and a spoon from the drawers before he sat down on the table and ate his cereal in silence.
He found it odd Raiden wasn't anywhere to be seen. Usually, Raiden would be the one to wake him up, or be cooking breakfast when he woke up. It was something Naruto as gotten used to when he moved into Raiden's home. Of course, there were times where Raiden had things to do and wouldn't be able to wake him up or make breakfast, but he would leave a note for him, letting him know when he was going to be back.
'Huh, perhaps he forgot?' he thought to himself as he finished his cereal. Picking up his empty bowl, he washed it and put everything away. Not thinking much of Raiden's disappearance, 'he's probably has clan business to attend to.' He went back to his room as took a quick shower.
As he was finishing dressing up, he saw his hitai-ate lying next to his goggles and paused mid-step. His eyes widen warily, and remembered what happened last night. He remembered Mizuki's betrayal and remembered what he said to Raiden. He remembered Raiden's shell-shocked expression as he raised his senbon needles and threw them at him, impaling into his chest. He remembered Raiden closed off expression as he yelled in his face, telling Raiden how he wasn't his anyone to him and he could butt out and leave him alone. He remembered how Raiden's face crumbled away from all emotions, leaving a cold shell of his best friend before he left him alone.
Naruto's knees buckled and fell onto the wooden floor realizing what he has done. His eyes start to water, his chest felt heavy with guilt, as if he was a huge boulder is pressing down on him. His body started shaking uncontrollably as wet, hot tears rolled down his cheeks. He pulled at his hair as more memories assaulted to his mind.
He remembered how Mizuki lied to him, made him steal the forbidden scroll from the Hokage's office. He remembered how Mizuki told he had the Kyuubi no Kitsune sealed within him and that's the reason everyone hated him. He remembered how Iruka showed up and told him not to listen to Mizuki and protected him as Mizuki attacked him. He remembered how Iruka got hurt and passed out before Mizuki went after him and backed him against a tree. He remembered closing his eyes, waiting for Mizuki's Shuriken to impale him, yet it never again. He remembered opening his eyes and seeing Raiden smile kindly at him before falling into his arms with two giant shurikens stuck to his back that were meant for him. He remembered Raiden coughing up blood, telling him everything was going to be alright before he passed out in his arms.
Naruto couldn't hold his feeling in any longer, his dam broke and all of his emotions broke free. He was angry at himself for seeing through Mizuki's plan, that his pride blinded him from the truth. That his pride could've possibly cost him his best friend, the only person that's been through thick and thin with him, the only person who's believed him and tried his best to help him when others have failed. He felt sorrow and shame for hurting Raiden so deeply, for cutting deeply into Raiden's own insecurities. For flaying him open. He hoped and longed for Raiden's forgiveness, he knew he probably didn't deserve to be forgiven, but he hoped Raiden would.
His body shook violently as he wailed through his pain, crying for the grave mistake he's committed. Hiccuping, sobbing, and wiping off his tears with his jacket sleeve and steadied himself as he stood up. He walked towards his counter and grabbed his hitai-ate and tied it around his forehead, looking into his reflection; his irritated, azure blue eyes harden with determination as his conviction to make it up to Raiden cemented. "I'll make things right," he promised with strong determination to beg Raiden, if he needed to. He was going to do anything he needed to do to get Raiden back.
Wasting no time, he ran outside the Senju compound and ran towards the hospital. He remembered Raiden was gravely injured alongside Iruka during the fight with Mizuki. It made it to the hospital within minutes and asked the receptionist where Raiden and Iruka were kept in.
The woman took one look at him and sneered at him before she told him where they were located at. He smiled tightly at her and went towards Iruka's room first, it was the closest room. As he entered the room, he saw the tan skinned man was awake and busy reading a book as he lay on his hospital bed with his left leg in a cast.
His teacher heard him entire his room and closed his book he was reading. He smiled at him with his usual kind smile and gestured him to sit next to him. Naruto swallowed, thinking and sat next to the man.
"Good morning Naruto-kun, glad to see you are okay." The man said lightly, his sweet tenor voice wrapped around Naruto in a comforting blanket he desperately needed. The blonde teen tried to contain him from launching onto the injured man and hug him to death.
Naruto smiled tensely, and Iruka noticed it right away. He knew immediately there was something bothering the blonde teen. He wasn't going to pry, so he smiled back. "Yeah, I'm okay… err, I just wanted to thank you for yesterday. You know, for protecting me from Mizuki." Naruto have him a genuine smile this time, it actually reached his eyes.
Iruka blushed lightly; he scratched the back of his head and said. "No need thanking me Naruto, I would gladly do it all over again. You've grown up so much in the last four years I've known you and I see you like the little brother I have had… You heard Mizuki that my parents died when the Kyuubi no Kitsune attacked the village, and let me assure you I hold no grudge against you. I just wished others thought the same." A rueful smile marred Iruka's face. "But, you're lucky you have Raiden looking out for you. Ever since he came, the villagers haven't been so openly vocal of your status as they were before…" He pauses mid-sentence, noticed Naruto's face darkened at the mention of Raiden's name. "What's wrong, Naruto?" The older male asked.
Naruto's fists tighten on his lap, his stomach fell at the mention of Raiden's name. "N-nothing wrong Iruka-sensei," the brunette's frown and worry grew as he heard Naruto's tense voice. He rested his hand on the blonde's shoulder, giving him the support the blonde desperately needed. "Come on, Naruto. You can tell me what's wrong." Naruto's lip wobbled, he bit his lip harshly before he nodded.
Gathering his courage, Naruto asked, "Do you remember anything before you passed out?"
Iruka's eyebrows scrunched together, trying to recall yesterday's event Iruka shook his head. "No sorry, the last thing I remember was someone standing in front with two shurikens on his back that were meant for you… that's when I passed out."
Naruto smiled wearily, his eyes watering a bit. "It was Raiden. He jumped in the way of the shurikens, even after I said some horrible things to him, things which hurt him deeply... You know, he found me before Mizuki tried getting the scroll from me. He tried to warn me and tried to take me to the Academy, but I hurt him. I-I threw him some senbon needles at him and yelled, told him that he wasn't anyone to me and he should just leave me alone, that I didn't need him because I allowed Mizuki get into my head. I-I hurt him s-so deeply, I don't know if he's going to forgive me, but yet he came just in time and took the shurikens that were meant for me and smiled as he fainted in my arms…" A tiny sob escaped Naruto's lips and Iruka pulled into a tight embrace, arms leans arms wrapped around the blonde's lithe frame.
Iruka held onto Naruto for as long the blonde teen needed it. He didn't know Naruto and Raiden had a fight, he always assumed they were also happy together with the way they always acted with each other, but he can understand, everyone had fights it was something normal. But this must've been a huge fight if Naruto is practically breaking down from the guilt from hurting Raiden. He felt for the blonde teen, he really did.
"Shh it going to be okay," he whispered into Naruto's ear, trying to comfort him and assure him. "It's normal for friends to fight, Naruto. Everyone gets into fights, especially between best friends, but they eventually make up. You might have said some hurtful things to Raiden, but he'll eventually forgive you. It going to take time and you need to be patient... It's going to take some time for Raiden to get over things, but I know he'll forgive. Do you know why?" The brunette asked.
Naruto shook his head, "No."
Iruka gave him a small smile, "because he came back for you. He came back and took the shurikens for you without thinking, even though you hurt him. He still cared. He cares about you Naruto." He ran his hand through the blonde's hair, "There aren't many friends who'll do that, you know."
Naruto smiled softly, "I know."
Iruka ruffled Naruto's hair one last, "you should go look for him and apologize. You know where is at?"
"Uhh, the receptionist told me he should be couple room down the hall. I should probably go apologize to him now, huh."
"Yup," the brunette man said. Naruto jumped off his chair, a bright smile broke on his face, "thank you Iruka-sensei! Hope you get better soon!" He yelled as he ran outside. Iruka smiled fondly, shaking his head as he watched the blonde teen exit his room. "Good luck, Naruto" he whispered as he went back to reading his book.
"Oi, Rai!" Naruto yelled, entering the room Raiden was supposed to be resting in, but as he entered as saw the room empty, his face fell. He looked around and saw Akira, Raiden's favorite doctor.
"Umm Akira-san, do you know where Raiden is?" He asked.
Akira looked at the blonde and smiled him.
When she discovered her staff was refusing to attend to Naruto because of the grudge they held over the blonde, she berated them and fired those who've abused their position. She wasn't going to allow her staff to decide who needed their help or not. Nope, everyone was welcome into her hospital no matter who they were. It was their job as medic-nin to heal everyone that needed it.
"You just missed him. He left approximately ten minutes ago." Naruto frowned, "really? I haven't heard anyone walk down the hall; I was talking to Iruka-sensei earlier."
Akira snorted, "Of course not. He decided to take the window as his exit. I swear that boy must hate doors or something, he's always entering and exiting through windows." She shook her head.
Naruto chuckled. He knew fairly well how much Raiden disliked doors, he never understood why the emerald eyed boy but it always made him smile. "Do you know where he might have gone?" He asked, but Akira shook her head, "No, but he should be in bed, resting. His shoulder is still tender and needs time to heal."
Naruto frowned, "Hmm, perhaps he just got back home or something… Well, thank you Akira-san!" The blonde exclaimed. Akira chuckled as she watched the blonde exited the room in haste, she scolded mildly for running through the hallways.
Seeing as Raiden left the hospital, Naruto headed back him in hopes of finding Raiden. He was starting to get antsy as time keeps escaping him and he hasn't yet apologized. Not making any pit stops, Naruto rushed back home, he ran towards Raiden's door and slammed it open only to find it barren of Raiden.
"Kage Bunshin no Jutsu," He cried, making a set of ten shadow clones. He ordered them to search for Raiden and report back to him. The shadow clones quickly saluted him before they left. Meanwhile, the real Naruto laid on Raiden's bed, worrying.
Forty minutes passed and all of his shadow clones reported back, all of them giving him a sad smile, saying they couldn't find Raiden anywhere before disappearing. He left the Senju compound, and headed to the Hokage's office, perhaps the old man knew where Raiden was.
He walked through the Hokage tower with relative ease, not many paid much attention to him or asked him what he was going since they knew he liked to stop by and talk to the Hokage on occasion. "Jijii, have you seen Raiden?" He asked as he stepped through the door.
Sarutobi dropped his pen, pushing his paperwork away in favor of greeting the blonde teen with a soft smile. He gestured at the blonde to sit down, "Raiden you say? Shouldn't be at the hospital resting?"
Naruto shook his head, "Nope," he popped the 'p' nice and crisp. "I check the hospital first, but Akira-san said Raiden was discharged an hour ago and should've gone home resting, but when I go and check he wasn't there. I've spent the last half an hour looking for him, but he's not anywhere in the village."
Sarutobi stroked his beard thoughtfully, "Ahh, yes. I remember, he had to leave the village to handle some personal business. Kuma is currently with him as a guard, just in case he needs it not that he does, but just a precaution. He did, however, leave something for you." Sarutobi reached into his pocket and took out a letter. Naruto quickly grasped the letter and thank the Hokage before he left his office so he can open it in private.
As soon as he returned home, he ran up his bedroom, jumped on his bed and opened the letter with shaky hands. He didn't know was it said and it could be anything. He took a deep breath and opens it.
Naru,
Oh little kit, I have so much to say to you, but it must wait once I return from my trip. I should be back in the village by Monday morning. I'll be gone the whole weekend for some important business I need to handle which needs to be addressed right away, it cannot be postponed any longer.
However, there are some things I want to tell you about what happened yesterday. You've hurt me, Naruto. Not only did you attack me, but you told me I don't mean anything to you… that everything I've done for you were for naught… but Naruto, I don't regret anything I've done… I've done everything to give you a fighting chance… and I don't regret that.
I can understand you might feel I've smothered you and to a certain extent I have, but I thought it was for the best. But apparently, I should've let you learn things on our own and I will from now on. I apologize to you for smothering you. I apologize for, 'babying you' as you said. I promise you, I won't be hover your shoulder twenty-four seven and let you learn from your mistakes.
Go hang out with Iruka and do things you want to do, don't be moping you hear me! I know you Naru, and you'll be feeling pretty guilty right now, and I want you to know I forgive you for what you said. True, it's going to take some time for me to get over it, and I think we should spend some time apart from each other until we make up.
I'm not mad at you, nor will I ever be truly angry at you unless you do something really stupid and get yourself killed before you become the Hokage! I'm disappointed, not only at you, but on myself as well. We both screwed up, and we needed to accept it… but we'll get there.
Oh, and don't you dare leave my compound! If I find out you left I will hunt you down and beat you up! My compound may be mine, but it's our home. It belongs to you as much as it belongs to me, so don't you dare go back to your apartment. Plus, I need someone to take care of my plants and farm.
See you in two days, Naru...
P.S. Congratulations on receiving your hitai-ate little kit. Told you, you could do it… Check inside my closet, there's a present for you…
Naruto finished reading the letter and noticed he was crying from ink blotched that marred the letter where his tear fell. Quickly, he wiped his face with his sleeve and smiled softly clutching the letter. He was forgiven...
It felt as a huge load was lifted off his chest. He wondered why Raiden apologized to him, where it was him who did the harm in the first place. If he didn't allow Mizuki's words get to him, he couldn't have hurt Raiden. He had two days to think of a way to make it up to Raiden and he wasn't going to waste them. He was going to something huge!
But first, there was a certain present waiting for him. He rushed into Raiden's room and went straight to the closet. He took out the nice wrapped package and unwrap it carefully, being mindful of not ripping the wrapping. Old Habits die hard.
He gasped loudly as he took out a new set of wooden Shurikens. Unlike the first set Raiden gave him, these wooden shuriken were made from black wood instead of the light brown ones Raiden made before. Naruto noticed the wood felt different as well; the wood was harder and more durable the previous set, not to mention sharper too. Setting his new Shuriken set aside, he sorted through a brand new standard Genin weapon kit containing everything a Genin might need: kunai, shurikens, smoke bombs, explosive tags, senbon needles, spikes, and other miscellaneous tags which could be useful. He's wanted to buy one, but hasn't the money to buy them, he's been saving his money for Raiden's gift.
Since he's been living in Raiden's house, he hasn't had to waste his monthly allowance he received from the Hokage to pay the excessive rent for his crappy apartment to his grouchy landlord rendering him almost moneyless after paying his rent. Now, half of his money has gone into buying their groceries, some he was quite vocal considering he didn't have to pay Raiden to live in his house and he wouldn't want to freeload on Raiden's generosity.
The rest of his money was either gone to buying ramen, buying manga, replacements for his weapon equipment, or other miscellaneous things that catches his eyes. Raiden has been trying to teach him how to save his money by storing it in the bank, but this was the first time he's ever had money for himself and wanted to spoil himself a little, he promised that as soon as he received his first payment for accomplishing a mission, it'll go directly into the bank.
Aside from all of his new ninja gear, Raiden also got him a new set of civilian clothes. He got three orange shirts with black outline frogs smiling in the front of the shirts, two pair of black pants, and a new pair of ninja combat boots. Not to mention, a new light blue kimono and yukata, which looked expensive just by looking at it, as he touched it, he would feel it was made from pure silk.
Naruto knew everything Raiden gave him was top quality and it must've cost a small fortune. He knew his emerald eyed friend was rich, among one of the riches families in Konoha, but Raiden didn't used the Senju money to buy things. Raiden almost never touched his family bank account if he didn't have too or it was used only invest on other business in Hi no Kuni, he used to work with Fugaku considering he was underage to invest and whatnot, but that didn't stop him.
Fugaku took Raiden's money and invested it into a business that caught Raiden's eye, and took 10% of profit Raiden made from his investments. It was a win-win situation that benefited both of them, plus it certainly helps that whatever Raiden invested on it almost always tripled their money, the elder Uchiha had to admit the boy was damn lucky. All of their money they made was set up at a bank where they later split up their earnings, but considering that Fugaku is now dead, everything now belongs Raiden's.
Apart from his investments, Raiden sold his fruits and vegetables he grew himself to different restaurants around Hi no Kuni. His crops have become quite famous after he began selling them in the village and spark an eye of Fumiko Aizen, a high class restaurant owner who was looking for a new supplier to supply him fruits and vegetables for his restaurant. The man becomes enamored with what Raiden grew and they worked out a fair contract.
Soon after, news spread and countless offers came his way, not only from Hi no Kuni but from the other nations. The Hokage came in and helped him deal with all the legalities, considering they were now dealing with foreign countries'. With all of the business, it opens new doors to foreign countries exports, something the council appreciated greatly.
Raiden had to buy more land to grow everything he needed. That meant about twenty-five acres of land to grow everything he needed just, and Konoha's Organic Farm was born.
Naruto and Raiden would tend the farm themselves almost regularly, with the Kage Bunshin. It was one of Naruto favorite past times, not that the blonde would admit to it, but he loved taking care of plants, and gardening. He would regularly water and tend to his own plant, Mr. Kuku, the first plant he's ever grown himself.
In fact, Naruto gave Raiden a plant on the second day they met, Mr. Buki. It was a test to see to see if Raiden cared about their friendship enough to care over the plant, and much to the blonde's delight, Raiden did. Mr. Kuku and Mr. Buki were thriving within the Senju Compund.
Gathering his presents, Naruto went to his room and put everything away. He checked on the presents he got Raiden and a huge grin appeared on his face. He was sure Raiden was going to love what he gotten him.
July 30th, 1992, 1:00 p.m.
Lupin's Cabin, Yorkshire, England
"Akitoshi, have you found where the Ryuusuke heir is living?" Shinzo asked the shadow elemental Kitsune, cocking up an eyebrow at the man who nodded back "Yes sir," the petite man replied seriously, "The Ryuusuke heir is currently living in a small cabin on the outskirts of Yorkshire; he's living on his own and should be home right now. If we hurry up, we might catch him before he leaves."
"Alright then, take us to him." The Kitsune chief ordered. Within thirty minutes of walking, the quintet arrived at a rundown, shabby cabin, which certainly has seen better days. As they entered the property, they felt something warm caress them as they passed through the magical barrier. When they reached the door, Shinzo knocked twice before it was quickly open by a rather ragged looking man with a trimmed moustache and beautiful amber eyes that seemed to glow slightly. His clothes were baggy and quite worn out, but still usable making it clear the man might be struggling with money at the moment. {"May I help you?"} He asked with a sweet British accent, his voice was warm and soothing to the ear but held a slight demanding tone beneath it.
Shinzo smiled at the man, replying back in English. All kitsunes knew how to talk in any language they needed thanks to their magic. "As a matter of fact, you can, or it's more how we can help you, but before I go into detail I think we should introduce ourselves. I'm Shinzo, and these are my dear friends Tetsuo and Akitoshi, we're kitsunes. The man with the mask is called Kuma and he's acting as a guard for Raiden Senju-Potter, or might know him as Harry James Potter. "
Remus jaw opened widely as he started at the tall boy incredulously, his eyes brimmed with hot tears and didn't hesitate to hug the boy fiercely. He held on to the boy tight against his chest and breathe in the boy's scent, he smelled like home, like the pack he lost. He rubbed his head against the boy's cheek scenting him and his inner wolf howled in joy as Harry rubbed his face against his check right back. His lip wobbled, "H-Harry I-I've missed you c-cub," he whispered tenderly in the boy's ear.
He whined happily as Harry hugged him tightly, "I've missed you too Uncle Moony, you have no idea how much I've missed you and Uncle Padfoot" Remus gasped loudly and Raiden chuckled, "You didn't think I'll forget about you right Uncle Moony or Uncle Padfoot, now?"
The amber eyed man whine in pain at hearing his mate's name. He couldn't tell the boy what his mate committed, now can he. It would break his cub's heart!
"W-where have you been? W-we've been trying to find you, Harry." Remus asked weakly as he hesitantly let of Harry. He took in Harry's appearance and noticed he still had the legendary gravity defying Potter's hair and had Lily's brilliant emerald eyes only a shade or two brighter. But as he looked closely into Raiden eyes, he noticed not only were his emerald eyes brighter than Lily's but it seemed as Harry had golden amber flecks around his iris and his eyes were slightly silted, almost bestial in appearance.
His eyes narrowed as he saw Raiden's elongated canines which seemed to resemble like fangs rather than teeth, even his nails were more claw-like. He sniffed Raiden's scent and noticed there was a feral scent that clung to the boy's body. A wolf musk. He noticed the boy was well taken care of wherever he was living. He didn't seemed weak or feeble, quite the opposite, Harry was a bit taller than James was when they were eleven years old and was stronger as well he noticed the muscle tone body Harry had when he hugged him mere seconds ago.
"It's actually Raiden now I don't go with Harry anymore." Harry… err Raiden said with a smirk plastered on his face. Remus was taken back, but nodded all the same. "Well then, where have you been Raiden?" he asked once again
He watched as Raiden nodded towards the other men who were standing by the door and he blushed lightly. Standing up, he offered a meek smile, "Err, where are my manners, I'm Remus J. Lupin. It's a pleasure to meet you all, please step inside. Sorry about the mess… I wasn't expecting any visitors…" He's cheeks turned a lovely pink as he scratched the back of his head sheepishly. Remus escorted the group inside, making sure to have Raiden within grabbing distance.
As they entered the living room, Remus blushed at the lack of sitting room. He was about to apologize as Shinzo waved it off and conjured a new couch for them to sit on. He sent a grateful smile towards the man, or should he say Kitsune. He has heard of kitsunes before; but, if he remembered correctly, kitsunes are from Japan and don't tend to stray off from their homeland.
Remus knew the three kitsunes in front of him were ancient and quite powerful just by looking at them. However, what caught his eye was the masked man who was apparently acting as Raiden's guard. The man wore a funny animal mask and a gray flak jacket with many pockets on top of black shirt, his pants were charcoal and he wore combat boots. He knew the man was a soldier by the posture the man held. Clearing his throat, Remus nodded towards Raiden. "Err, Raiden are you going to tell me where have you been?"
Raiden nodded sharply, "Yes, but first I need to know something… How much do you trust Dumbledore?" Remus jerked back slightly, he wasn't expecting Raiden knowing of Dumbledore. Narrowing his eyes, he glared at thinking of the man who separated him from his cub.
He trusted the man to keep his cub safe, yet somehow the man lost his cub, and to make matters worse Raiden has placed in the Dursley's care of all people. He's heard countless stories from Lily how her sister hated anything that wasn't normal and her husband was worse than Lily's sister. If Raiden was living happily, the boy certainly wouldn't have run away from home unless things weren't as great as Dumbledore said. A happy child would never run away from a happy home unless it wasn't safe.
According to the Dursley's, Raiden has been gone for the last four years and they didn't care less if he died, in fact they were glad Raiden was out of their hair. As he thought more of the man's actions, Remus remembered how Lily had warned him not to trust Dumbledore so foolishly; even James, told him on different occasions Dumbledore wasn't as trustworthy as he appeared. So no, he doesn't trust Dumbledore. He has lost his faith in the man. Rubbing his hand across his tired face, Remus sighed heavily. "I lost my trust and faith in Dumbledore since the day I heard he lost you. I've tried to petition to him to allow me to take care of you since the day he took you away, but he rejected my offers telling me and everyone else how happy you were living with the Dursley's… I-I wanted to raise you… but I couldn't, not with my umm condition…" He said sorrowfully not able to look up at Raiden.
However, when he felt a pair of lean, muscled arms wrap around his neck, he latched onto Raiden as if his life depended on it. His nose nuzzled into Raiden's neck and he inhaled Raiden scent, calming and making his inner wolf purr happily.
"I'm glad you don't trust Dumbledore because if you did, I'm afraid I wouldn't be able to trust you fully… I'll tell you everything you want to know and trust me, the things you are about to hear are going to bring your world down. Dumbledore… Dumbledore isn't the man you believed him to be he's done some horrible things and ruined countless lives… Oh, and by the way, I know about your furry condition and don't care you turn into a werewolf every full moon."
Remus choked, "H-how do you know!?" he exclaimed.
Raiden snorted, "I'm sure you've noticed something is off about me, haven't you?"
The werewolf nodded tensely, with a frown marring his face. He could feel his inner wolf back down slightly, something it has never done. "Yes, there's something off about your scent, it's almost as if you have this wild, feral scent that clings to you… Whatever it is, it's affecting Moony, making him happy and calm…"
"That's because I have an ancient wolf demon sealed within me, the Jyuubi no Okami. He's has affected my senses, making them sharper similar to that of a wolf, which is the reason for my sharp teeth, silted pupils, and claws-like nails. My hearing, eyesight, taste, strength, and sense of smell as increased drastically. You smell like a wolf, well a sick wolf and pain, lots of pain…" He tightens his arms around Remus trying to comfort the man who desperately needs it.
"How is that possible?" The amber eyed man asked, stunned by what Raiden told him.
Raiden chuckled weakly, "My parents did everything in their power to protect me from Dumbledore and apparently, that was sealing a wolf demon within me not that it bothers me. Matsu, the wolf demon, has been there all my life since he woke up and been helping me survive the Dursley's. He's great once you get to know him, I trust him with my life… he's almost like a big brother I never had…"
Remus nodded very slowly, trying to understand what Raiden told him. But considering how Raiden seemed genuine towards the demon sealed within him by James and Lily, he supposed it could deal with it. Taking a deep breath, he said, "Okay… I want to know how that happened, but he's not hurting you, is he?" He asked.
Inside of his Mindscape, he heard Matsu snorted loudly and ask. ["Hey cub, let me talk to your wolf man."] Raiden snickered mentally and nodded. Slowly, Matsu began taking control of Raiden's body, making Remus gasped as he watches in fascination as his cub began to change.
/"Down boy, I'm not hurting the cub in anyway. I just asked him if I could talk to you and he allowed it… Now, James and Lily made me promise them I would keep their cub safe from all danger, especially from Dumbledore, and I vowed I will protect Raiden with my life, the brat seems to grow on you like mold."/ He ignored Raiden's indigent yell and continued, /"We both share one body, but Raiden has complete control over it, unless he's in danger or does something stupid. We can assess each other's mind and can communicate with each other telepathically./"
/"Now, that we settled that. There's something I want to tell you… Raiden wasn't lying when he told you that you smell sickly, and you need to fix it as soon as possible or you'll die within the next ten years. Your condition or disease as you called it, is a gift and not a curse. You've been gifted the strength, senses, and form of a wolf the sooner you accept your inner wolf the less pain you'll face as you turn and regain your health."/ He reprimand the man in front of him with a scowl.
Remus laughed harshly, "You think turning into a monster every full moon is a gift! You think turning into a mindless killing machine that cannot differentiate from friend or foe every full moon is a blessing! You think killing innocent people or cursing them if they live to become a monster every full moon is a gift!" He yelled back fiercely, veins popping from the side of his throat as he screamed.
Matsu stared at him plainly, / "Are you done bitching, or are you going to continue whining!?"/ He shoots back, cocking an eyebrow. Remus looks at him incredulously, remaining speechless after his tiny rant. The wolf demon shook his head, /"Great now that you're done, let me tell you a couple of things. Since you've been bitten, you've faced bigotry from your fellow wizards and witches because they believe you're an uncontrollable dark creature, too dangerous for anyone. Werewolves, such as yourself, are more powerful than the average wizard or witch, so it makes sense they fear you because they cannot control you. In their minds you are too powerful and they can't have that. You see, werewolves are resistant towards magic, especially in their wolf forms and it takes more wizards or witches to take them down because of the natural magic resistance they possess, making them a treats towards wizards and witches. Not only does werewolf possess a natural magic resistance, but they become physically stronger and faster than regular humans, their senses sharpen drastically, and werewolves live longer than wizards and witches. Not to mention you'll be able to find your soul mate or soul mates, the one person/persons who'll completely fully and won't ever betray you because they physically cannot."/
/"Of course, they have to be able to accept their inner wolf and become one with their inner wolf to gain all benefits, if they don't, their transformation become painful because it's an internal struggle between the person and their inner wolf, and the wolf will always win and becomes enrage going into a frenzy."/
Matsu paused, he noticed how pale Remus was looking and he grinned widely. It seems that he's gotten through his thick skull. He has seen how the European wizards and witches have treated the werewolves with such a great disdain over the last century he's been living on Earth. The Americans and Eastern Nations, however, were more open minded and worked with werewolves and other dark creatures, trying to make their lives easier by either offering them jobs, providing housing, and offering them a section of land where they would run during their transformation.
If Remus doesn't accept his inner wolf, he is going to die or worse, go insane with madness. He's seen werewolves who've gone mad and it's not a pretty sight. He hoped for Raiden's sake, Remus would make an effort and accept the helped they are going to provide.
/"It's not your inner wolf that makes you the monster you call yourself, Remus… it's you not accepting your inner wolf that makes him rampage. The more you struggle, the more painful the transformation become and your health will disintegrate over time, either making you go insane from madness or result in your early death. That potion your taking the Wolfsbane potion is also killing you slowly, it's breaking your inner wolf's mind each time you drink… Please, I beg of you to accept your inner wolf and become one with him… Werewolves aren't beasts or monsters. They're protectors who protect their pack, especially their cubs. Why don't you do it for your cub, do it for your mate, and do it for yourself. Become the man, Raiden looks up to. He's waited so long to see you again and it will crush him you end up dying on him. His life hasn't been easy and it's not going to be easy, he'll need you and your mate to help him…"/
Silence permeated the room, everyone remains quite as they let everything seeped in. Remus especially remained motionless as he processed everything. The amber eyed man swore softly under his breath and nodded slowly. Matsu watched as the man's golden eyes shined with newly lit determination and he grinned wolfishly. He knew Remus was going to do anything that would be required to because he had something to protect now, something to live for and soon he'll understand why he's adamant to make Remus see reason. "O-okay... I-I'll do it..." Remus said softly.
Matsu smiled softly at him and nodded, /"I'll hold you on that or else I'll make our cub beat sense into you. I'll let Raiden take back control now, oh and be prepared yourself what you're about to hear is going to turn your world upside down."/ He smirked one last time before he gave control back to Raiden.
Remus sat on his chair fuming, clutching onto the arms of his chair trying not to jump across the room and grab Raiden and never let him go as he heard Raiden's story. He was beyond enraged with Dumbledore for allowing his cub into an abusive home knowing fully how they were going to treat him and doing nothing about it! And if that wasn't enough, he had the audacity of not just lying to him, but to the entire British Wizarding community! And not only did Dumbledore endangered his cub, but he put away his mate and didn't even helped him. If Dumbledore cast the Fidelius Charm, he knew Sirius wasn't the secret keeper, he knew it was Peter! The elder wizard knowingly puts his mate, an innocent man behind bars without intervening when he had to power to do so!
Oh, his trust in Dumbledore was non-existent. The man was going to rue the day he dared to interfere with his pack and he's going to pay dearly and he was going to help Raiden to ruin Dumbledore. He wasn't going to sit by and allow the man to manipulate everyone's life as if they were just pawns for Dumbledore's use.
Moony was growling and agreeing with him fully. For once in their life they've agreed on something. He didn't liked Raiden choose to become a Shinobi, but he had to admit the he knew how to handle himself, much to his displeasure. Don't get him wrong, it was great Raiden knew how to fight well… too well and not to mention he used dangerous weapons and this jutsus as he called it. It was amazing what he could do, but knowing that his cub was willing to go outside and fight other ninja who have more experience than him and can be quite lethal… it didn't make his heart any good.
He almost had a heart attack when he watched Raiden's battle with Tetsuo! But he had to admit he was proud his cub was a fierce warrior, and it was probably going to help him in the future, so he had to agree it was for the best. But that didn't stop him from cuddling Raiden for an hour or so…. He had to make sure his cub was alright and Raiden didn't complain so it was a win-win.
Moony, on the other hand, was preening and howling in joy as he watched his cub fight like a warrior, the whole was more than proud to know that his cub was strong. He knew Raiden was going to be an excellent Alpha someday.
However, the greatest shock was learning he was related James, his twin brother and he wasn't really from earth or at least he wasn't born on earth. James and him were from the Elemental Nation where Raiden has been living for the last four years and he was from an ancient clan who, according to the kitsunes were one of the noble clans who were mages. So technically, Raiden was his nephew, his blood kin, sort of. Not to mention he was going to start his mage training alongside Raiden, after, of course he works with the Okami to learn how to become one with his inner wolf.
Remus knew he wasn't going to be staying on earth for any much longer, he has had enough. He wanted to explore his birth homeland and start a new life there, Konoha seems like a great place to live. But first, he needed to get his mate, he wants his Sirius.
"Okay, so what now? What are you going to do Raiden?" Remus asked, his voiced wary with a hint of panic just beneath it.
He stared at his cub with worry as Raiden ran his hand through his messy hair, "There's nothing much I can do yet." Raiden sighed weakly, "I first need to find a way to free Sirius from Azkaban. I already have the Minster of Magic of Japan behind me, but I have no concrete evidence that would ensure Sirius freedom. As much as I would love to free him now, I cannot go and demand them to free him. They'll ask how I know and I cannot tell them about Matsu."
Remus nodded. "Yes, but there has to be something we can use… Wait! I know there's a portrait of your parents, they commissioned just week before they went into hiding, it should be in the Potter Castle… or in Gringotts…"
"Potter Castle… don't you mean Potter Manor?" Raiden asked, tilting his head slightly.
"The Potter's are one of the oldest family's in Britain, some speculate they lived during the time of Merlin, but it's not proven; regardless, though out the ages the Potter's have acquired many properties throughout Europe and across the world, one being Potter Castle. According to James, every Potter has a portrait made by the age of 20 and sent to Potter Castle, it was a weird family tradition. I remember when he had it made… However, I don't know the location of Potter Castle… it'll be best if we check your family vaults at Gringotts." Remus sighed heavily.
Raiden tapped his chin, "Do you by any chance know where the Potter Manor is located at?" He asked.
"Yes, why do you ask Raiden?"
"Well," Raiden started off, "Seeing as I'm waiting for my Hogwarts letter, it'll be best if I stay behind the Potter ancestral wards to avoid Dumbledore barging in. Plus, we're planning on staying for the weekend before we go back to Konoha."
Shinzo and Tetsuo nodded knowingly, "We also want to study more in depth of your style of magic if possible, and I have to admit I'm a bit curious how it differs from our magic." The Kitsune chief added.
Remus smiled at the Kitsune, "I'm sure I'll be able to aid you, if you wished. I do have to teach Raiden how to use his Wizarding magic before he starts Hogwarts" Both of the Kitsune smiled and nodded at him. "Hmm, yes still remember, but we'll need your blood to access the wards. They are keyed to the Potter's blood. Only a Potter can open them. "
Raiden clapped his hands, "Great! Shall we go?"
Remus smiled and told the Kitsunes where the Potter Castle was located. Within seconds, the group vanished from Remus house and appeared in front of a huge manor. The three Kitsunes, Raiden, and Remus were able to see the majestic manor whereas, Kuma saw a barren landscape.
Remus ushered Raiden towards the main gate, "Beautiful, isn't it?" He asked the emerald boy who nodded back, speechless. The werewolf chuckled lightly; it was a truly stunning sight.
Pointing at the two lion statues by the entrance, Remus leaned down and whispered into Raiden's ear. "Just place both of your hands into the lion's's mouth. You'll feel something nick your palms." Raiden nodded and walked towards the lions. He marvels that the beautifully crafted lion before he place both of his arms inside of the lion mouths.
As soon as his hands were in, he saw how the lion's eyes opened to reveal two stunning ruby colored eyes, he felt a sharp needle nick his palm and it drew some blood. As soon as his blood made contact with the needle, the lion's eyes turned green and a warmth feeling surrounded his body, almost as if it was caressing him. He felt something pry his mind, he tried to fight it bit the voice spoke loudly in a deep, comforting voice. "Welcome home, Master Potter." The voice said before it retreated.
Immediately, the gates opened and the wards shimmered allowing Kuma to see the manor for the first time. The masked man gasped behind his mask as his eyes widen as he saw the amazing display of magic, never in his life has he anything as spectacular before. He had to admit, magic was amazing.
Raiden noticed it the Potter wards were similar to the Senju-Uzumaki wards back home, and he wasted no time in keying everyone into the wards. The group of six walked through the wards and felt the magic behind the wards, it felt as if they were being welcomed by the Manor itself. It seemed as if the manor itself was semi-sentient, or at least that's what they three Kitsunes noticed.
The heard a small popping noise and a small creature appeared in front of them. The small creature wore a black dress with an emblem stitched to the front of the dress. The creature had large eyes that seemed to bug out just a smidge, its ear was floppy looking, almost looked bat-like and leathery from what they can tell. They watched as a small smile crept onto the creature's face and it said,
"Welcome home, Master Potter."