KG: Good day everyone. We're back with this story and with some news. It seems that…oh sorry I'm just choked up right now. It seems that the voice of our very own, Kisame Hoshigaki has passed away a few days ago at age fifty or so. Tomoyuki Dan, what a great guy! May he rest in peace!
KG: Now then, onto more news. Some people asked how I will be moving Naruto and Chiku around all the time and what this incident is. Some asked if the Fourth Great Shinobi War will have an impact on it. I'll say…it will, but not in the way that you're expecting. Also the Fourth Great Shinobi War shouldn't be your focus people. Just gonna leave that.
Music of the Week: Crann Na Beatha( Tree of Life) by Adrian Von Ziegler.
Quote: "Just know, when you truly want success, you'll never give up on it. No matter how bad the situation may get." by Unknown.
"You heard me Uzumaki Naruto. You are hereby required to turn in your headband immediately," Danzo said as stoically as possible. Chiku narrowed her eyes slightly before turning to Naruto, but somehow never having her eyes leave Danzo's form. It surprised her that Naruto's face hadn't even changed. She didn't know what to make of those words. How could the council have seen it fit to end the career of Konoha's Hero? Chiku had heard the thousands of shouts of praise to Naruto for him defeating her former self. Chiku took pride in her abilities as much as Nagato did. Anyone would could defeat her was worthy of praise and she respected them for it. She just didn't understand this, but the young woman decided not to voice her opinions. She wouldn't do that in front of Danzo. The fact that she held a deep resentment for him aside, Chiku just also found it wasn't her place. She would however voice it when she and Naruto were alone.
Speaking of said young blond, Naruto's blank expression belied the swirling storm of thoughts within his head. He felt like his entire world had come crumbling down into a vast sea of fire. Naruto had fought for his village, killed for it, lived for it, did everything for it. He defeated Akatsuki's leader for it! Kakashi said that he was called their hero. He finally had the people's appreciation that he so desired. Now he was just supposed to give it all up like all that work meant nothing to him. If he turned in his headband then he wouldn't be a ninja. He wouldn't even be Hokage, the one thing that he strove for his entire life. The thing that kept him pushing himself to the very edges of his limits and beyond. This…Danzo told him to discard his very dream like it was an order?! "Be ready to leave the village at 0300 tomorrow. Say your goodbyes, pack your things and during that time you are to leave. No earlier, no later," Danzo said spinning on his heel and heading for the door.
"Stop! What are you talking about?! Why do I have to turn in my headband?! Why do I have to leave the village? What am I even doing? All the things I just did don't count for anything now?" Naruto asked slamming his hands to the desk in front of him. Chiku frowned towards Danzo hoping for him to elaborate on this as well. She didn't hold an allegiance to Naruto's village in the slightest, but Naruto held a connection to it. That meant that the orange-haired woman would stay with the blond in Konoha for however long he wanted. It didn't matter to her if he stayed or left. As Chiku said, she wouldn't leave his side unless it was a dire situation to do so. This wasn't that so she wouldn't leave.
Danzo did indeed stop and gave a small sigh of his lips, but controlled it so that neither heard. Was he not clear enough? Naruto Uzumaki wasn't the brightest person in the village, but even this boy here should know when to follow and order, explanation or not. "It is like I have told you Uzumaki Naruto. Turn in your headband to the nearest jonin. All jonin are being notified of this anyway. Most likely the person to take your headband will be your sensei," Danzo said, but he and Chiku noticed Naruto ball his hands into fists. "But why?! What am I supposed to be doing? Why can't I keep my headband?" Naruto asked and Danzo took a step forward.
"That is quite simple Uzumaki. I will be blunt. This wasn't Konoha's decision. Well, it was, but we were swayed to be that way for two reasons. One is a thing you should know right now, without the Hokage in ready position the shinobi population is still wary of you. Those alive felt the power you used. Because you lacked discipline you nearly released the Kyuubi and would've allowed the beast to roam free causing much more damage than Pain ever could have. They are scared that you have gotten too strong. So the council agreed with this to calm the population as well as see that another objective is completed. Because of the times we didn't feel that it was important, but the Daimyo requested to see you. We were not told of the purpose, but we don't have the power to deny him what he wants. It is your duty as a Konoha shinobi to think about the village instead of yourself. Do not misunderstand. You will come back in due time, but not till I say so. Also because your resignation will be a surprise for the other nations then we hope to make things more comfortable. At least until we know their weak points. With you out in the world then for us that will instill the fear that should any of the nations attack us then they won't know where you are and you could very well lay siege in retaliation once word is brought to you. A fitting idea don't you think?" Danzo asked while Naruto growled lowly.
"So why don't YOU do it then? You're strong. You're obvious strong what with the power I feel behind those bandages of yours. Why don't you do this?" Naruto asked and Danzo replied with a small snort. "Please boy, I am far too valuable to the village to be out in the world. I did my time and now it's time for you to do yours. I assume that there will be no problems. Konoha will keep in touch with you via messenger bird. We will expect you to reply to any and all messages sent to you. Is that clear?" Danzo asked having a small glaring match with the young blond. Naruto's nails dug into his skin and Chiku could feel his chakra rising in portion to his anger. She knew Danzo could feel it as well. She looked back to the elder for a little bit until closing her eyes. Chiku slowly placed her hand on Naruto's shoulder getting him to stare coldly at her. Chiku slowly shook her head and she noticed the smallest of water near Naruto's eyes before he shut them tightly.
"Fine. Let's go Chiku," Naruto said walking down from the desks as Chiku followed him. Obviously she chose the wise thing to stay silent and acquiesce to his desires this time. "Ah I had forgotten Chiku-san. She will be staying with us. With you or not she is still to be held for trial against the village; However I find the village to be rather foolish. Just think of a young generation with the powers of the Rikudo Sennin. Konoha will indeed grow strong," Danzo said glaring at her. Honestly he wasn't thinking about giving the Rinnegan to anyone, but a way to see if he could splice the cells of a Sharingan with a Rinnegan. The greatest Dojutsu, even more powerful than the Eternal Mangekyou Sharingan.
"You're really pissing me off old man. I'll do whatever mission you want, but you'll keep your hands away from Chiku. She stays with me. You might think you're stronger than me, and you might even be stronger than me, but I don't think a fight with me is what you need right now, is it?" Naruto asked and Danzo stopped looking at Chiku to stare at Naruto. "You'll do the mission regardless boy," Danzo said and Naruto stepped forward.
"No, the times where I was ordered to do something or get pushed around are over. If you, or whatever the hell your organization is called, lay a hand on Chiku then I'll expose all the things that I've seen about you. You couldn't bear to handle that could you?" Naruto asked and Danzo gave a low growl. "Choose your next actions wisely boy. I will not take you threatening me lightly. Now get out of my sight before I have you arrested and detained," Danzo said. Chiku soon felt Naruto grab her hand and bring her with him towards the door.
"With pleasure," Naruto said opening the door then slamming it shut leaving Danzo in the room alone. The old war-hawk glared at the place that Naruto was just near and turned around. He couldn't stop the small smile on his face as he did so. It seems he had underestimated the blond just a bit. Maybe, just maybe if Danzo played his cards right then Naruto could bring the other nations to Konoha's knees begging for mercy. All he had to do was be patient.
-With Naruto-
Naruto slammed the door, to the outside, open alerting the anbu as one of them dropped to the ground. The scene they all noticed was Naruto dragging Chiku by the arm leading them away with the female former path still very much confused about what had happened. She glanced back to the masked shinobi that they had just left. Chiku didn't know what to say so she just let Naruto drag her along. She didn't care either way. She was less than pleased with Danzo's suggestion. Actually she wouldn't lie. She didn't know if she could have children or not. She had died, but then she was revived. So maybe she could, but she doubted that she would. It wasn't like she cared to have something inconsequential like a relationship. She had better things to do that chase off some foolish fantasy that was barely existent to begin with.
Naruto stomped with Chiku right behind him until they came up to his apartment room. Naruto suddenly stopped and panted heavily showing just his frustration in the matter. The sun was already beginning to show signs of the end of the day. "Yeah say goodbye to my friends. How the hell am I supposed to do that with the little time that I have left?" Naruto asked himself until he felt a pat on his shoulder. "Uzumaki, it would be good if you reigned in your emotions. You must think about these things rationally," Chiku said and she was confused when Naruto showed confusion on his face.
"Chiku? When did you get here?" Naruto asked and Chiku blinked multiple times before finally answering. "You grabbed my hand and dragged me along for the past half hour," Chiku said and Naruto raised an eyebrow to her words before ultimately sighing again.
"Oh, sorry about that. I guess I was too lost to realize it. I didn't hurt you did I?" Naruto asked and in response Chiku shook her head left and then right. "You did not. So what will you do?" Chiku asked and Naruto gave a sigh opening the door. Both walked through the door and Naruto casually threw off the top of his jumpsuit letting it land to the floor not really caring.
"What else can I do? The Daimyo is an important figure and if he wants to meet with me then I don't see any problems with it," Naruto answered. "However true that might be, I am curious as to why they don't provide you with an escort. Something to make sure that your mission went well. You would reply via messenger bird, but then it is concerning. Remember to keep your guard up. Even I can't tell you what we're dealing with," Chiku said and Naruto nodded.
"Yes, you're right. I really don't have a choice. I thought it would be difficult for me to be ready for…whatever it is that's coming if I couldn't freely move around like I wanted, but I didn't think it was going to be like this," Naruto said. Chiku acknowledged his reply, but she didn't know what to say to make him feel better or if she did then she wasn't going to say it. Why she didn't know. She was sure that he would bounce back just fine. After all, that's all she could remember him doing with the fight between him and her former self.
Silence reigned between the two for a few minutes until Chiku said Naruto walk over to a couple of scrolls that he had. He quickly pocketed those and then began the process of sealing leftover kunai, shuriken, and clothes into his things. "If anything this means that we travel lightly," Naruto said to her. Chiku looked down at his work until she nodded as well. "I agree with you. I would think it wise for you to learn proper speaking. If I am to be blunt then I will say that you don't seem to be able to speak as proper as you should. There is only so much that I can teach you myself, but I think this would be appropriate. I will not force you. This is merely my understanding in the matter," Chiku replied back. Naruto hummed to himself as he thought over her suggestion. He admitted that he could hardly hold a conversation with someone of importance without his occasional smartass remark. That was one of his faults and he wouldn't deny it. He wasn't perfect and Naruto knew this. He didn't try to appear perfect either. He hated to admit when he needed help though.
"Well I think you're right. I do need some help," Naruto said and Chiku quickly agreed offering her consent. She and Naruto stopped what they were doing. Both sat in front of each other. Naruto sat on the back of his legs instead of cross-legged to show that he figured this was how important people sat. "It appears that you have the correct posture. That makes things easier. We will begin," Chiku said, but unfortunately that had to wait as a loud banging came to the door. Naruto sighed to himself and pinched the bridge of his nose.
"We can pick this up when you're done," Chiku said and Naruto nodded with a slight thank you to his partner before jumping to his feet and walking towards the door. He opened it and noticed Sakura in front of said door huffing violently. "Naruto! Did you hear the news?!" Sakura asked and Naruto raised an eyebrow.
"What? What's the matter Sakura?" Naruto asked and Sakura brushed the side of her face. "They want you to turn in your headband. Nearly all of Konoha heard the announcement from the council members. Can you believe it?" Sakura asked and Naruto frowned.
"I was told already," Naruto said and Sakura sadly widened her eyes while looking at the only teammate that she had left in the village. "Well you're not going to do it are you? Refuse them Naruto! You can't leave! Where are you going to go by yourself?" Sakura asked and Naruto sighed.
"I can't tell you that Sakura. It's very important," Naruto said and Sakura had enough. This was too much. She knew something was going on with Naruto, but she wouldn't let him leave too. "What's happened to you? Why are you so different? It's like you're an entirely different person. You're acting like…Sasuke," Sakura said effectively making Naruto narrowed his eyes.
"I am nothing like Sasuke! I'm doing this for the village. I can't tell you what it is Sakura. I'm sorry, but I'm going to be gone and I don't know how long it will be," Naruto said and Sakura looked past him and she noticed Chiku calmly waiting for him to finish with his conversation. "I see. So that's why you're leaving. She convinced you to go. Is that it? You're going to decide your future because of just one woman?!" Sakura shouted at him. Naruto looked back to Chiku for a second. He saw her calmly meditating, but he was sure that Sakura was loud enough for Chiku to hear her.
"This isn't Chiku's doing Sakura. Don't talk bad about her when you haven't been with her for that long," Naruto said and Sakura scowled. "You're going to leave us too. Neji, Tenten, Lee, Kiba, Shino, Ino, Shikamaru, Chouji, and…Hinata. She risked her life for you and you're going to disregard it like she's meant nothing to you?!" Sakura asked.
"Of course not! I care about Hinata a lot. I care about everyone a lot. That is why I'm doing this. You wouldn't understand," Naruto said keeping the last part to himself. "Then why won't you stay?! You have to stay. Who's going to be there for us if you're gone? Who's going to be there for the people of Konoha? Who's going to be there for . . .me?" Sakura asked while Naruto frowned. He quickly grabbed Sakura's shoulders getting her to look up.
"Sakura, you're strong. You don't need me. I want you to rely on me. I've always wanted that, but learned that you need to depend on yourself. No one is going to completely make your problems go away. Only you can do that. It's not like I'm going to be gone forever, but you need to understand that I'm doing this FOR Konoha," Naruto said while Sakura held her head down. She balled her fists before turning around.
"Fine, whatever. Don't expect me to watch you leave tomorrow. I think you're being selfish," Sakura said walking off. Naruto narrowed his eyes as he watched her leave until she couldn't be made out in the darkness. Naruto held his head down and looked at his feet. He said nothing nor did anything for several minutes prompting Chiku to stand behind him. "Before we leave…take me to the one named Hinata Hyuuga," the orange-haired young woman said and Naruto turned to glance towards her. He could see a bit of longing regret in her eyes and he slowly nodded. He didn't question why she wanted this, but he gave her the benefit of the doubt to know that she wouldn't bring more harm.
Settling down, Naruto reappeared in his room and closed the door. Throughout the night Chiku taught Naruto as much as she could on formal speaking, formal posture and respectful speaking. It was suffice to say that they didn't get much sleep what with Naruto messing up nearly everything Chiku explained to him, but they were pressed for time so they had to rush. They only got about four hours of sleep that time.
-Sundown, Next Morning, Medical Tent-
It was still very much dark. The sun had yet to rise over the fields and bring the new day for Konoha. Naruto and Chiku stood side by side. The blond had once again allowed Chiku to borrow his clothes for the sake of her not having any and she didn't mind sharing it either. It was out of necessity after all. "Here is her tent," Naruto said with a rather tired yawn, but Chiku could understand that. She was still really half-awake, but one couldn't tell with the stoic expression on her face. "Thank you Naruto. I will be out in just a moment," Chiku said. Naruto merely nodded. He leaned against a tree while he noticed Chiku go into the tent.
Chiku noticed no one was inside. Only the medium-sized frame of Hinata Hyuuga was there sleeping soundly. Chiku looked over her for a second before sitting next to her. She could see Hinata's chakra circulating through her body for a little bit before. Chiku closed her eyes for a second and then opened them back up. "I will not ask for forgiveness for what I have done, but I will hope that you bear no hatred towards me or my former self. I am here to help Naruto Uzumaki against something that will break these nations in two. I heard of your confession to him. He was lucky to have a woman like you supporting him. I will support him at my very best for your sake, for his sake, and for my sake. I…am sorry for what I have done to you," Chiku said softly getting to her feet. She slowly walked out of the tent and noticed Naruto lean up from the tree he was leaning on.
"Done?" Naruto asked and Chiku nodded. "Hai, let's be on our way Uzumaki Naruto," Chiku replied. "You know, Naruto is fine," Naruto said as he and Chiku walked away.
"I was indeed aware of that," she said and Naruto's eyebrow twitched. He just settled for a strained chuckle that he knew Chiku heard. Did she say something funny?
It wasn't a long walk to the outside rim of the village, but Naruto and Chiku only made some light conversation since they were going to be with each other for a long time. For some reason, Chiku didn't mind speaking with Naruto as while she rather liked the quiet time she didn't mind the rabble of certain things that Naruto said which would catch her interest. Plus she felt it was rude to not reply to him if he spoke with her. She was sure that he had his moments of quiet too. Who knows?
Both soon made it to the outer rim and Naruto was surprised to see everyone waiting for him. He narrowed his eyes before giving a small sigh. "It's late. What are you guys doing out here?" Naruto asked and everyone glanced to each other. "We could ask you the same thing," Kiba said and Naruto closed his eyes.
"You're not going to stop me," Naruto said to them all. "Troublesome. You think we're here to stop you? Please if Sakura couldn't even do it then what chances do we have?" the lazy genius heir of the Nara clan said to the young blond Uzumaki. Naruto noticed Kakashi come forward. The two shared a look before Kakashi finally spoke.
"Naruto, I am a jonin," Kakashi said and Naruto nodded instantly. He chuckled to himself mirthlessly. Taking one hand, he slowly brought it up to his headband. The wind swayed in the breeze of the night air. Naruto unwrapped his headband. With a quick slip it fell from his forehead and into his hands. Everyone narrowed their eyes at the sight, but none moved to stop him in the slightest. Kakashi held out his hand and Naruto looked down at it. The blond gave a small sigh before placing it in his former jonin-sensei's hand. "Whenever you're going to come back, this will be right here waiting for you as will we," The one-eyed jonin said clasping Naruto's headband tightly and letting his arms fall to his side. Naruto's hair shifted slightly from the lack of something to keep it up and nodded.
"Thank you, Kakashi" Naruto said as he and Chiku moved through the group. "Stay out of trouble baka!" Ino said cheerfully and Naruto nodded. "Taste lots of food for me Naruto!" Chouji spoke. Naruto once again nodded as he and Chiku passed through the group.
"Find me lots of weapons! Train hard! Do your best!" Tenten, Lee, and Shino encouraged. Naruto came up to Neji and patted the Hyuuga jonin's shoulder. "I swore that I would change the fate of the Hyuuga clan and I promise that I will. Be patient with me," Naruto pleaded. Neji merely closed his eyes and nodded.
"I will hold you to that promise then. May you have success on your journey to wherever you go Naruto," Neji said and backed away. "Naruto…keep the lady happy. Women crave attention," Kakashi said with an eyesmile. Naruto's eyebrow twitched involuntarily before looking down at Chiku. She looked up at him for a good second before casting away her gaze to the road.
"Naruto Uzumaki, let's be on our way," Chiku said and Naruto nodded firmly. "Yeah, you're right," Naruto said and having passed his friends and his sensei, Naruto stepped to the other side of the boundary of Konoha that would've been considered the Great Gates of they were still up.
"Kuso! Why does Naruto get to travel with a hot chick like that?! He's so damn lucky!" Kiba grunted out while the other's laughed. "Oh it's simple Kiba. Just defeated an S-rank shinobi, be claimed a hero and then the ladies won't stop falling in front of you," Ino teased. Kiba growled, but said nothing.
"Things were troublesome, but with him gone they're going to be boring. I guess Sakura didn't come huh?" Shikamaru asked and Ino shook her head. The young Nara sighed with a nod before turning back. "Yo Naruto!" Shikamaru shouted making Naruto and Chiku turn around. The sight Naruto saw couldn't stop a smile from appearing on his face. Hell, Chiku couldn't resist giving an unnoticeable one as well. Both saw the rest of the group, plus Kakashi and Gai give Naruto a thumbs up, nice-guy pose, etc.
"Be sure to come back. Konoha's not enough without you!" Ino shouted and Naruto just held his hand up in a light wave. Chiku gave a small bow before the two disappeared into the darkness, never making another appearance. "Kakashi-sensei, that woman who was with him; she has the same smell as…," Kakashi placed a hand on Kiba's shoulder while simultaneously placing a finger to his mask prompting for silence.
"Trust Naruto, Kiba. If she's with Naruto then we can rest assured that she does not mean harm. She will watch out for him. I know she will. Though they should really think of a different name for her. That one was a little too…obvious," Kakashi said and Kiba nodded. Neji and Shikamaru nodded as well, but they didn't comment on anything.
"Well since we're all still awake, how about a 300 laps around the crater of Konoha? What do you say Kakashi?" Gai asked while Kakashi yawned. "Sorry Gai, did you say something?" Kakashi asked while the others snickered.
"Curse you Kakashi and your hip attitude! This is the time Lee and I get up anyway!" Gai said and the others sweatdropped, especially Tenten and Neji. "And do what, dare I ask?" Ino asked while Lee gave a thumb up.
"Swimming exercises Ino-san," Lee said while Shikamaru sweatdropped. "The water is below freezing during the night," he commented while Lee and Gai laughed outrageously. "That's the fun part!" Gai and Lee said together. Everyone just chose to walk away back to their bunkers for the night leaving the two large-eyebrow men to…whatever they were doing. Still, no one was looking forward to telling Sakura that Naruto was now gone.
-With Naruto and Chiku
Naruto and Chiku nearly an hour into their walking, reached the top of a large hill and Naruto suddenly stopped. Chiku turned to him for a second and noticed him turn his head. She saw Naruto move into the direction of the village. The blond's eyes peered into the large crater and a true testament to Pain's power. Naruto couldn't even see the building that lied within the crater. He only looked out to the direction of it and Naruto gave a short smile. "Are you having second thoughts?" Chiku asked and she took notice of Naruto's smile as the blond shook his head. "If I am there is nothing that can be done about it now. You know that. Well at least I won't be alone," Naruto said and Chiku folded her arms.
"Hai. I will stay at your side," Chiku said and Naruto wasn't sure if she said that because it was her mission or because she wanted, but he took it well all the same. "Thank you," Naruto said turning back around to the road in front of them and the two walked off. Their first destination was…oh yeah, they didn't have a map. Well…shit.
-Later that morning-
Naruto and Chiku's feet trudged along the dirt path. Both had been walking for a long time. They had just taken a small break twenty minutes ago. The Sun was finally coming to view and the area around them was springing to live with the moist feeling of condensed water around them. Naruto turned his head and looked at the ground seeing the wet dew on the grass as it always was this early in the morning. "Naruto, what will be our first destination?" Chiku asked alerting Naruto as he turned to her. Placing a finger to his chin, Naruto thought for a few seconds. He took a small sigh before finally answering his supposed companion. "The first town I can remember should be Tanzaku Gai. Up the road from there are five split-ways. One of those will take us to the Daimyo. I suspect that the council already sent him a message that I accepted. There are a couple of towns I know between Konoha and Tanzaku. There we can get you some clothes, get ourselves some more weapons, ink, scrolls, the sort of things that we need for what we do," Naruto spoke and Chiku easily agreed.
"You are right in that regard. I believe it would be prudent for you to foster more relations with other people. It would be wise to bolster yourself with allies. I do not mean to sound blunt or disrespectful, but you and I will not be enough. Neither will Konan or Ame," Chiku said and Naruto agreed. "I know you're not being disrespectful. I had thought about that too. Actually I have a few places in mind, but don't forget that you should foster relations with people as well. I know you tasked me for this mission, but if we're going to stand a chance then I'm going to need you to have that too," Naruto replied to her. Chiku closed his eyes, but never lost her pace with Naruto as their feet kicked up dust continuously. Chiku could see what Naruto meant by that. Just from judging Chiku on how she reacted to Sakura then the orange-haired woman could see why Naruto was telling her this. Chiku couldn't always be interested to start conversations. She have to have them even if they weren't going to be interesting. She had told Naruto that she didn't mind, or have any problems with, talking to people, but she could see why he was concerned. So to dispel that concern, Chiku opened her eyes and nodded.
"If you believe that will be best then I will agree with your method. However, speaking of clothes, do you have any money for that?" Chiku asked and Naruto rummaged through his scrolls for a little bit. He pulled out his frog wallet, and ten medium-sized bags. "This is all the money that I own right now. If we're lucky then this will tide us over for the next six or seven months. More than enough time to find some stable mercenary work if we need it," Naruto said. Chiku seemed pleased with that.
"And what about the three people behind us?" Chiku asked with narrowed eyes and Naruto pinched the bridge of his nose. "Looks like Danzo doesn't trust me. Well I wouldn't expect him to. Actually Chiku, come with me. I need to go see someone who might be able to help us," Naruto said taking a turn into the woods from the dirt road. Chiku instantly followed him and they walked through the grass before coming to an open area. Naruto bit his thumb and quickly slammed the ground.
"Kuchiyose no Jutsu," Naruto called out pushing his chakra and then a loud poof came. Due to the moisture in the air the cloud of smoke quickly faded and showcased a familiar face that Naruto knew all too well. How could he not? "Good morning Ma," Naruto said. He had summoned one of his great friends, teacher, and ally, Shima, one of the elder toads of Mt. Myōboku. She was the wife of another elder toad, Fukasaku. Both toads had been there when they helped Naruto fight against Pain. Very good friends they were.
"Oya? Weill if it isn't Naruto-chan. Never had I thought that you would summon me. What can I do for you this fine morning?" Shima asked and Naruto gave a small grin. "Nice to see you too, Ma. How is Pa doing?" Naruto asked referring to Fukasaku. Shima slightly raised an eyebrow when she got a clear look at the blond in front of her.
"He's changed. I don't know how, but he's really changed a great deal. That look in his eyes. It's like he has come to an understanding entirely out of his years. It's only been two or three days. How could one change so much?" Shima thought to herself before getting back to Naruto's question. The purple-skinned elder toad smiled widely before answering.
"He is recovering well. Still in the bed, but I've been looking after him with much intensive care. Now what are you doing calling an old woman out here?" Shima asked and Naruto stood to his feet. "Ma, I need to see the Elder," Naruto said and Shima raised an eyebrow.
"Is there a specific reason for this Naruto-chan? A visit to the Elder isn't something one can do every day," Shima said and Naruto nodded. "Well, see the problem here is that…," before Naruto could finish Shima turned and widened her eyes when she saw Chiku appear from behind Naruto. It was suffice to say that had Shima not been as strong as she was then she would've had a heart attack.
"Naruto-chan, you do know who this is, don't you?" Shima asked dangerously, but to her surprise Chiku merely placed her hands together and bowed. "Greetings Shima-sama," Chiku responded and Shima blinked while Naruto gave a friendly and disarming smile.
"Ma, this is Chiku Shōdo-san. She's traveling with me," Naruto said and Shima looked at Naruto in shock. How had things changed this much? Had Naruto really forgotten just what she had done to the village? No, he couldn't have. There had to be something that she was missing here, but for now the person was friendly so Shima would be reasonable at least. "Alright then. So why is she traveling with you?" Shima asked and Naruto sighed.
"That is why I need to see the elder. I promise that she won't be a problem," Naruto said. Shima glanced to the woman next to him and the two shared a look before Shima finally resigned with a small sigh. "Very well Naruto-chan. I'll take you, but I expect you both to be on your best behavior," Shima said. Naruto gave her a nod of thanks and Shima quickly reverse-summoned Naruto and Chiku to Mt. Myōboku. The three followers dropped to the ground confused. Great, now what were they supposed to tell Danzo. They had effectively lost Naruto already.
-Mt. Myōboku-
Naruto and Chiku poofed into the sacred land of the Toads while Shima turned around. "I will go and seek the Elder. Both of you wait here," Shima said hopping off as they watched her go. In the meantime, Naruto sat on the ground and closed his eyes. Placing his hands together he waited while Chiku stood next to him. "You need to relax Chiku. Or at least stop tensing your shoulders like that," Naruto told her. Chiku turned to him wondering just how he knew about her slight plight, but passed that off as his abilities.
"I'm not worthy to be here Naruto. Doing what I did I don't feel…adequate here. I feel out of place," Chiku said and Naruto frowned. "Why is that?" Naruto asked and Chiku shook her head.
"I do not know. Hopefully the answer will come to me in due time," Chiku responded and in another five minutes or so, Shima returned to the two teens and nodded. "Naru-chan the elder will see you now. He will also see the woman with you. I'm sorry, but given your history then two guards will be in the building. Is this alright?" Shima asked and Chiku merely nodded. So, Naruto clapped his hands and walked off with Chiku not far behind him.
It took the two some time, but they finally made it to the Grand Hall where Chiku noticed a large toad in front of her and Naruto. She had to actually slightly widened her eyes at the scene in front of her. The chakra she could see exuding from him was some of the most powerful that she had ever witnessed. However Chiku would be more impressed if he Great Toad Sage wasn't…sleeping. Naruto sighed while Chiku offered a deadpanned look. Shima face-palmed before she hopped forward.
"Jiji-sama! Naru-chan and his guest are here!" Shima yelled snapping the Great Toad Sage awake. "Aya! Is that so? Sorry, sorry. Oh it's you two. Eh…what was your name again?" He asked and Naruto sweatdropped. Chiku blinked before tilting her head to the side. Okay so maybe the respect had dwindled down just a tad after that question.
"Uzumaki! Uzumaki Naruto-chan!" Shima shouted while the wise toad rubbed the back of his head. "Oh if it isn't Naruto Uzumaki. What are you doing here?" He asked. Chiku turned to Naruto and saw the slight irritation on his face. It told her that this had happened before. When she didn't know, but she could tell that it was something to probably look into for later.
"He's here for your help! Along with his companion! They came here to see if you could help!" Shima shouted before finally having enough. There was no point to this. If there was then it would have happened by this time, but it didn't so she just gave up all hope of it. "Hmm this girl next to him…what is your name?" The Toad asked. Soon all eyes were on Chiku as she slightly stepped forward before giving a bow.
"My name is Chiku Shōdo. I am traveling with Naruto Uzumaki," she said professionally though the atmosphere in the air didn't really dictate such. "Hmm I see. So Chiku-chan is your name. Come closer Chiku-chan. Let me get a better look at you," The Toad said and everyone widened their eyes, but Chiku kept walking until he could see her and he smiled.
"Mmhmm a warm spirit. Full of regret, but promise," He said before abruptly holding out his hand. Chiku flinched, but didn't move until she was surprised to feel his fingertip on her forehead. Soon the Elder was assaulted with visions that came from Chiku's head. The dream that Nagato had during his time and what it meant. The Elder could see it all very clearly until he took his finger away from Chiku causing her to back away. Chiku lost her balance and nearly fell back, but she found that she was caught by Naruto who was looking at her in surprise. "Chiku, what happened?" Naruto asked while Chiku touched her forward.
"Nothing, sorry for worrying you," Chiku said and Naruto just slowly nodded not totally convinced, but letting it go for now. "Naruto Uzumaki," Naruto turned forward to see the Elder no longer squinting his eyes like he usually did, but saw them fully open staring down at the blond. Naruto held Chiku up.
"I have seen what Chiku has told you. I am afraid that I have nothing to help you with. Whatever it is that's coming to the nations will be your biggest trial. I have nothing to give you, but this. I saw something, one way out for you to hope. Naruto-chan, there are two roads for you. There will be a decision in your life. It is this decision that will determine if you succeed or fail. It is this decision that will determine whether you take one path or the other. Naruto-chan, you must go to your place of origin, discover the thing closest to your heart and there you will find the answer. Also, no matter what, keep Chiku with you. She is the one who will hold you to the correct path," the Toad said while Naruto narrowed his eyes. He looked down to Chiku and they shared a glance before Naruto allowed her to stand.
"I'll have a choice to make? I wonder what he's talking about. What choice am I going to have to make? What did he see from Chiku?" Naruto thought to himself before he noticed the Elder grin widely. "Ahhh and…sleepy time," he said before closing his eyes the drool already evident on the side of his face. Naruto sweatdropped and resisted the urge to growl. What was he supposed to get from that?
Sighing, Shima turned around. "Well Naru-chan that appears to be all the time we have here. Sorry he couldn't be of more help. Would you like me to send you off now or would you like to stay for dinner?" Shima asked and Naruto grimaced. Chiku saw Naruto's chakra flare in fear and she felt him lightly shivering. "N-No dinner Ma. Chiku and I are just going to go now. Thank you for the offer though," Naruto quickly said and Shima sighed.
"I see. Well I wish you the best luck on your journey Naru-chan. Look after him Chiku-san. He's a handful, this one," Shima said and before Chiku could nod to her, both poofed out in smoke leaving the toads alone with their sleeping Elder.
-Plains-
Naruto and Chiku appeared back in the plains where they had been before. Quickly standing to his feet, Naruto pressed for the road and Chiku quickly followed after him. "Do his words concern you?" the orange-haired woman asked to her blond companion getting Naruto to turn to her for a little bit before looking forward. Naruto narrowed his eyes and he turned his head up to look at the clear sun. "I won't lie and say they don't. I just wonder if he told me to go back to Konoha. That's the only origin that I know of, but I can't go back there. At least not without probable reasons and Kami if that old war-hawk allows me to," Naruto said and that brought up something for Chiku to bring with him.
"Speaking of that, where did you learn that information? I never told you about Nagato's encounter with Danzo," Chiku had spoken and she tried to remain neutral, but Naruto picked up on the hints of sheer curiosity in her voice. "That's something that I hoped you would answer for me. I don't know either. I don't know what's happening to me, but I feel more…capable if I had to answer you. It feels good. In any case it won't do us good to worry about that prophecy now. I'm going to be making lots of decisions so we'll just have to be careful. Come on, let's head to Tanzaku Gai," Naruto said walking away. Chiku nodded and walked off with him.
-Hidden Location, One Week Later-
"Shut up Madara. I do not take orders from you. I will never take orders from you. I'm leaving and that's final," came the cold voice of someone that had just walked past Tobi, known to others as the general idiot in Akatsuki, to others just another random person, but to the young man in front of him, a dangerous person, but one who wouldn't get in his way. His name was Tobi, but that was only an alias. His real name was Uchiha Madara and he just watched as the former teammate of Team Seven, former student of Orochimaru, and killer of Uchiha Itachi, Uchiha Sasuke walk through the halls. "Remember that I saved you Uchiha Sasuke. You have a debt to me and I will make sure that it is repaid in full. Whether you like it or not you will do what I have assigned for you. Itachi was never on my level. Don't think that just because you could defeat Itachi that you can defeat me," Tobi said and Sasuke glared back at him hatefully.
"Don't you dare talk about Itachi like you know him!" Sasuke growled out while Tobi snorted behind his mask. "Face it Sasuke, who do you think you're telling? You always spoke of Itachi that way. Now that he's dead you choose to respect him. You're not threatening anyone, least of all me, with your tone," Tobi replied back while Sasuke balled his fists. He turned back to Tobi and glared hatefully at him, but found that he didn't have the room to retort, so he just settled for walking away.
Coming into a room, Sasuke took notice of the three members on his team. On the right was a young woman with vibrant red hair, classes and the standard Akatsuki cloak. Check, Karin. One the left was a white-haired young teen with jagged teeth and the sword of Zabuza Momochi, the Kubikiribōchō, to his side. Check, Suigetsu Hozuki. In the middle was a taller teen with orange hair much like Chiku's. He wore the same Akatsuki cloak as the others. Check, Juugo. All checks were there. "Sasuke, you're alright!" Karin said, but Sasuke shrugged her worry aside for a 'never' time.
"Good, you're all here then that makes this simple. Sasuke, you and your team are going after the Hachibi jinchuuriki. He's from Kumo. This should at least be a way to seal your debt to me," Tobi said while Sasuke lightly turned towards the man. "Hn," Sasuke said. He was ready to leave anytime, but soon everyone noticed Zetsu, a half-white half-black plant-man, come out of the ground.
"Madara, we have news on the Kyuubi jinchuuriki," White Zetsu said and Sasuke narrowed his eyes slightly. "Kyuubi jinchuuriki? He's talking about Naruto?" Sasuke thought to himself while Tobi narrowed his visible eye behind his mask.
"What is it? Did Pain capture him?" Tobi asked and Zetsu looked at the ground. This got the others to turn their heads towards the conversation happening next to them. Yes, even Sasuke got interested in it. "Leader-sama was defeated by the Kyuubi jinchuuriki. He is still alive and…Konan has defected from the organization. Also there is news. The Godaime Hokage is down and it seems unlikely that she will recover," Black Zetsu answered this time. Sasuke gritted his teeth to what he heard. Naruto took down the supposed leader of Akatsuki? Ridiculous in every sense of the word.
"Well why didn't either you or Kisame capture him? Surely such a battle would have left him exhausted. Why isn't he with you?" Tobi asked irritated by the recent words he had just heard. "Well the problem with that is that…the Kyuubi jinchuuriki is gone. It seems that…Konoha told him to turn in his headband. As far as we know he's no longer a shinobi nor a missing nin. We don't know why they asked this of him. We just know that Shimura Danzo was the one who spoke to him," Black Zetsu spoke up once again and Tobi looked surprised by that. Well, at least as surprised as you could get from a guy wearing a mask.
"Wait, the guy who defeated Akatsuki's leader was…cast out by his village? What sense does that make?" Karin asked and Tobi quickly punched the wall making it break. Sasuke and Juugo didn't flinch in the slightest from the action that happened, but everyone was on alert from the chakra coming off Tobi's body, especially Karin. "It makes perfect sense. Konoha is very weak right now. Rather than have their best shinobi sitting around doing nothing but construction for the village they will instead have him out in the world as something of a loose cannon to the other nations. Imagine if Konoha were attacked by…Kiri or Kumo. Then think of what happens if that news reaches Naruto Uzumaki's ears What will happen?" Zetsu asked and Juugo answered.
"Without a doubt he would ready use his power and bring either of them to their knees just like they did and unlike them he is their best and won't die as easily as the average shinobi. They're using him to strike fear to the other nations that if Konoha gets attacked then at least the best survived to get their revenge. An ingenious plan," Juugo said and Suigetsu grinned. "Hmph, what a bunch of weaklings. It's their fault they got destroyed. Shouldn't they all be dead then?" Suigetsu asked and Zetsu shook his head.
"It's unconfirmed, but we believe that the Kyuubi jinchuuriki…persuaded Nagato. He brought back all of the denizens of Konoha before his death. We felt his chakra raise on last time before finally dying out. Nagato betrayed us Madara," Zetsu said while Uchiha Madara growled before retracting his fist from the small hole he made in the wall. "Change of plans Zetsu. Sasuke will go after the Hachibi jinchuuriki as planned. Zetsu, stay on the Kyuubi jinchuuriki. I would like to see him for myself," Tobi said with narrowed eyes.
"Are you sure about that?" Black Zetsu asked and Tobi snarled. "Just go do it! It is obvious now that the Kyuubi jinchuuriki can't be taken lightly. I had my suspicions ever since he had defeated Kakuzu, but this has finished it. With him out of the village that will make our efforts more tedious. I will search for him. Where is Kisame?" Tobi asked and Zetsu tilted his head to the side a little bit.
"He said something about 'finding the correct place to get in the mood.' That's all we heard from him," White Zetsu said and Tobi sucked his teeth before turning his back to the group of people. "The Kyuubi jinchuuriki has messed with my plans for the last time," Tobi said walking off into the darkness while Sasuke growled. "I'll never let you catch up to me Naruto. No matter how strong you are, you're still a loser," Sasuke thought before grabbing his sword, which had been leaning on a wall, and strapped it to his waist.
"Karin, Juugo, Suigetsu, we're leaving to hunt for the Hachibi jinchuuriki. Taka begins its first assignment to the destruction of Konoha," Sasuke said gritting his teeth as he said that. Karin nodded faithfully while Juugo did the same. Suigetsu gave a sigh, but stood to his feet and picked up the heavy Kubikiribōchō and placed it on his shoulder. They all left the room leaving Zetsu. The plant-man was alone before he balled his fist. "There I did it now will you let us go?" he asked to someone before the person laughed.
"Umm I don't think so. Sorry Zetsu, but you're going to be helping us for a while. No wonder Akatsuki was that efficient in gathering data. I'll contact you again. For your sake, I hope you answer," a voice said before it suddenly vanished out of sight while Zetsu looked at the ground. "How dare he?! Thinking that he can control us!" Black Zetsu said before they regressed into the ground.
-With Naruto and Chiku-
"Let's see. We take this road and that will lead us to the Daimyo who is ten miles away in that direction. Are you tired any?" Naruto asked turning his head back and he noticed Chiku coming up behind him. Unlike the last three days, Chiku wasn't wearing what Naruto had given her to wear. When they had entered Tanzaku Gai, Naruto handed her money and told her to buy clothes while he looked for a hotel to stay at. That was the plan, but Chiku easily stuck close to him and it was evident for Naruto that he wasn't going to be doing anything by himself for a while. He assured Chiku that he would be fine in those minutes. Chiku had only looked at him evenly when he said that, but she had allowed it that one time for him to be alone and went to buy some appropriate clothes. Now she was wearing a red low-collar, buttoned shirt and loose gi-style pants, tightened with a small obi to keep it in place, having the bottom of the sector to be cut just at her ankles. Below the pants and covering the ankles and feet were fishnet stockings merely because they were comfortable. To finish it was some open-toed black shinobi sandals. "I am well-rested," Chiku answered simply. Naruto nodded before looking forward.
"I still don't know why you wouldn't let me buy that sword that we saw in that weapon's shop. That looked amazing," Naruto replied and Chiku shook her head. "You are the one who said that we can't be lax with your money and we won't be. Besides that I have seen you fight, you're still is not suited to swordplay. If you feel the absolute need to have a sword then you will need someone to train you to use one," Chiku replied and Naruto folded his arms.
"Hmph I might have changed, but even I still appreciate the small stuff dattebayo," Naruto muttered to himself. "There is little need for concern over such things. However I am curious as to why you wouldn't come with me three days ago. I was to stay at your side, but you seemed adamantly against it," Chiku said and Naruto sighed. He then went on to pinch his fingers to his nose as he shook his head and explain his plight with what Chiku had just said.
"I told you that I was not going with you to help you pick out your undergarments!" Naruto said shivering at the sheer thought of it. "You seem against the idea. Do you not prefer a woman's undergarments? Is there a reason to be so against it?" Chiku asked curiously. Naruto stiffened at what she was saying before turning around.
"What? Of course there is and I do! No, wait I mean I don't! Well I like women, but I don't try to see their…," Naruto stuttered before Chiku sighed to herself. "Never mind it then. As I said before I am well-rested. We're still on our way to the Daimyo correct?" the Rinnegan-wielder asked and Naruto nodded.
"That's right. This is the road we're going to take to get to him. Come on, if we're lucky we'll get to him two days from today," Naruto said and Chiku quickly agreed with him and the two trudged through the back. "Hey Chiku, about that thing I asked you the last time..," Naruto said glancing to his companion and Chiku merely looked forward, but there was little left to doubt that she did hear him.
"You are referring to the Gedo Mazō that I spoke of in the hotel. I cannot summon it now. If I could then I would, but I can't," Chiku said and Naruto frowned. "Why not? You have the Rinnegan don't you? Are you supposed to be able to do all those amazing things?" Naruto asked. Chiku accepted that question. Actually it was more of an answer, but it was a very correct answer at that.
"I told you that I was more of a manifestation. I gave myself a portion of my Rinnegan powers. I can still perform everything within a single body like Nagato could before. However the full visual prowess of the Rinnegan is needed to summon the Gedo Mazō. I would need his original eyes to do that," Chiku said and Naruto slowly nodded placing a finger to his chin. "I see. So that's how it works. Still I didn't even know about such a thing until you told me about it," Naruto replied back. Chiku gave him a glance, but nothing more.
"You know I've asked you some things about you, but you don't seem curious about me. Something wrong?" Naruto asked and Chiku looked down slightly. "That is not the case. There wasn't a reason to intrude upon your life so I said nothing about it. Unless you'd prefer that I did," Chiku said and Naruto shrugged his shoulders.
"Sure why not? I don't mind. It seems we're going to be going to a lot of places so I guess we should get to know each other as much as we can," Naruto answered. Chiku turned to see his eyes focused upon her with a gentle, but slightly calculating smile that the young woman was sure not that many people had ever seen in their lives. "Why is that? Does learning about me have anything to do with our objective?" the companion asked and Naruto shrugged his shoulders again.
"Well it'll foster trust I guess. You don't have to tell me everything. It's more of a simple curiosity," Naruto spoke. "You believe that by learning about me then fighting together will be more efficient?" she asked. Naruto tilted his head left and right to that sort of logic, but he guessed that it was sound enough.
"Sure I guess that's one way of looking at it. The other is just me wanting to know you. Is that okay?" he asked. Chiku looked at the ground for a few seconds contemplating his question but not for long as she closed her eyes and sighed. "Very well then. What might you like to know?" Chiku asked as the two disappeared into the distance.
-Under the Crater, Room-
"Forgive us Danzo-sama. We have lost Naruto Uzumaki. He's been gone for a week since we last saw him. We have failed the mission," one of Danzo's Root anbu said to the war-hawk. Danzo frowned in his seat as he tapped his cane on the ground. "Your punishment will be given later. For now, leave my presence," Danzo said and like that the three anbu were gone as quickly as they came. Danzo looked over a roaring fire while he opened his visible eye.
"Uzumaki is not one to neglect orders so he will go to the Daimyo's palace. That is very good. Konoha is still in disarray from Pain's attack and the Rinnegan is right there next to the Kyuubi jinchuuriki. I was foolish to let it get out of the village. The untapped power that's in her eyes is wasted out there. She also knows too much. She must have told Uzumaki about my dealings with Akatsuki. Both are trouble, but no trouble that I can't get rid of with minimal effort," Danzo thought to himself with a small nod of his head.
"I suppose I will use those five then. They have never let me down before," Danzo said to himself. He snapped his fingers and five figured dropped to the ground. Danzo mouthed the words to his subordinates and each bowed slowly to him. "You have your orders. Monitor! Do not approach! Go!" Danzo said and they flew away quickly leaving their presence as nothing more than a thought.
-With Naruto and Chiku, nighttime-
"…And with the added increase of workers then you will see the country prosper from now to the next five years," Naruto said kneeling formally with Chiku across from him. She looked at him sternly watching for errors in Naruto's talk from inside their shared tent. Both had decided to rest where they were for the night since traveling anymore would be disadvantageous to them both. They had spent more than a good portion of their time, after putting up the tent, to train. Naruto didn't feel right if he didn't train at least once a day. Chiku, surprisingly, felt the same way so they did that to pass the time until it was entirely dark out and they resumed with Chiku's lesson.
"You have made valid points Uzumaki Naruto. Very well, we will trust your judgment to act like so," Chiku said finishing and Naruto nodded finishing with his best bow. "Thank you for meeting me Chiku-sama," Naruto said raising his head and then dropped the act.
"There please tell me that's a little better?" Naruto asked and Chiku nodded. "It is better. Not entirely perfect, but it will have to do for now. You have the basics down since I explained this to you on the road. You should be fine when you meet with him. Now let's go to sleep," Chiku said falling to her side and closing her eyes. Naruto blinked before he closed his eyes as well. Naruto drifted off to sleep. He soon felt a pull of his conscious and Naruto slowly opened his eyes to a sight before sighing to himself.
"What do you want…Kyuubi?" Naruto asked looking at the barred teeth of the large, orange-coated, red eye-slitted, nine-tails swishing, form of Kyuubi no Yoko. "Shut your pitiful mouth brat. It's time you and I had a talk," Kyuubi said and Naruto folded his arms then proceeded to narrow his eyes. Fine, Naruto would bite, but he wouldn't like it.
KG: We'll stop here people. I moved around quite a bit. Well whatever. I still had fun. So many ideas in mind for this. Well I have to go. See you later.
KG: That's it folks. Stay Breezy, protect what's important to you, review, and SEND ME CREAM SODA! Also I challenge you all to RESPECT THE DAMN CREAM!