An: Thank you for all the reviews as always. Your humble author S.o.t.A.

Disclaimer I not own Naruto and I'm doing this for fun not profit.

Chapter 19: Revelations

Hinata shot up and found herself in a bed in the hospital. The first thing she thought was, "Was it all a dream?"

Sakura, who had been watching over Hinata, got out of her chair asking concerned, "Are you alright Hinata?"

"Sakura what happened?" Hinata asked confused.

"Well after Naruto…"

"It wasn't a dream Naruto's really back," Hinata interrupted clearly happy with that revelation.

Sakura smiled back saying, "No, it wasn't a dream he's really back."

Hinata then tried to stand up, however Sakura held her down. Puzzled Hinata said, "Please let me up so I can go see him."

"I'm sorry, but you were suffering from the beginnings of chakra exhaustion," Sakura informed her. "You've been asleep since yesterday. The Hokage ordered you and the others to remain in the hospital for observation." Smiling she added, "Naruto however was here for fifteen minutes before he staged a jail break so to speak. The hospital staff is looking for him but I doubt they'll find him."

"What about you?" asked the blue-haired girl.

"I didn't contribute anything of value to the fight," Sakura said dejectedly, "so I didn't need to stay."

Trying to change the subject Hinata asked, "What about the village?"

"Well there's been some property damage and we suffered some losses…" Sakura began to inform her, but Hinata only half listened. She knew it was selfish yet she was more interested in Naruto's return. As she thought about the Blonde she couldn't keep the smile from spreading to her face.

The smile that appeared on Hinata's face confused Sakura especially considering the subject matter so she asked, "What is it?"

Hinata shook her head saying, "I just can't believe it's really him and that he's back in the village."

A smile of her own appeared on Sakura's face as she said, "Yeah, tell me about it. I never imagined that the boy I was falling for was Naruto." As soon as the words left her mouth Sakura cursed herself for her stupidity. She knew that Hinata had strong feelings for Naruto too. She had spent the night wondering about whether or not she should even try and pursue a relationship with him, considering her recently repaired friendship with Hinata. It was only after she had stopped in the Yamanaka flower shop that morning to pick up some daffodils for Hinata that she came to the decision that Naruto was to special not to pursue.

Hinata found herself staring at those same flowers after Sakura's statement. She should have known better she guessed, but a part of her hoped that once Sakura knew that Ronin had in affect been Naruto she would lose interest. Looking at the flowers she realized that Sakura was the one who planted the daffodils at Naruto's grave. Knowing now that they were in direct completion for the same boy and unwilling to just hand Naruto over Hinata said while still not looking at Sakura, "I'm not going to just stand aside for his affections Sakura, even if you are my best friend."

A shocked countenance appeared on Sakura's face for a moment before forming a tight smile as she said, "I know, but I'm not willing to step aside either."

Turning to look at Sakura now Hinata stated, "Then we're rivals I guess."

"True," Sakura replied but added, "However, I don't want to lose you as a friend again, so let's promise that we won't let a boy come between us. We'll both pursue him and should you capture his heart I'll step aside wishing you both the best of luck."

Hinata nodded her head saying, "I'll do the same should you be the victor." She then held up her hand so they could pinky swear like when they had been younger. Sakura quickly interlocked her own pinkie with Hinata's while smiling at the girl.

Just then a nurse entered saying, "I'm afraid you'll have leave now. We have to check over Hinata to see if she can be discharged now."

Sakura stood up making her way to the door, but before leaving she said, "I almost forgot. The Hokage wants to see all of us who witnessed the fight with Gaara in his office later on tonight in about four hours."

"Did he say why?" Hinata asked.

Sakura shook her head no but said, "I think it has to do with Naruto's other chakra. The Hokage seemed worried when we mentioned it to him."

Sakura then left the room to allow the nurse to check Hinata. As the nurse did her job Hinata thought on what the Hokage wanted to talk about. But her thoughts soon turned to how she would go about capturing Naruto's heart. Not settling on any real plan of action she decided to play it by ear and just try to spend as much time as possible with him in order to better get acquainted with him.

Sarutobi looked out on the village with a fond smile on his face as it already commenced rebuilding. He had just received word from the jounin council that Team Zabuza's bid to join Konoha was successful. They still hadn't finalized the Chunin selection portion of their deliberations but he was sure Naruto would be fairly considered. At the moment he was waiting on the two people he sent for to reach his office. After twenty more minutes of waiting he heard a knock at the door announcing the arrival of one of the pair. Telling the man to enter he wasn't surprised that Zabuza was the first to arrive.

"You summoned me?" Zabuza said gruffly.

"Yes. First I wanted to inform you that Naruto's and Haku's bid to join the Leaf was successful," Sarutobi replied handing Zabuza a package that was sitting on his desk. Zabuza looked at it confused so Sarutobi clarified, "Inside are the boy's new headbands as well as their Shinobi identification cards and any other information they will need."

"What's the other reason?"

"Let us wait until Jiraiya arrives before we go into that," Sarutobi replied to Zabuza's question.

"Well then let's get this party started," spoke a voice from behind Sarutobi coming from the window.

Turning to his old student Sarutobi said laughing, "I see you still have your old aversion to doors it would seem."

"Well you never know what you'll learn by peeking through a window," Jiraiya replied to the Hokage. Then turning to Zabuza said, "Congratulations for getting those two so ready for the Chunin Exams you're a credit to your sensei."

Nodding his head at the Sannin's compliment Zabuza said, "Okay so what's this about?"

"I want the pair of you to work together to locate Tsunade," Sarutobi answered.

Both were surprised by what the Hokage requested yet Jiraiya was the first to recover saying, "No offense to Zabuza, but you could probably use him for missions to keep up appearances and I can handle this on my own."

Accepting Jiraiya's words but having his reasons Sarutobi said, "I know you can. However, I want this handled a certain way. Your part in the mission is to locate her. Once you do so you will send word back to Konoha and Zabuza will travel to your location to relay the message she is to return."

Jiraiya was confused as to why the Hokage wanted Zabuza to handle the actual talking but Zabuza got it right away saying, "So by having a shinobi that recently joined the village relay your message you are in affect telling her she's on your shit list is that it."

"More or less," Sarutobi replied moving to sit behind his desk. "The other reason is that for too long we have handled her with kid gloves and it has gotten us nowhere. You on the other hand are anything but delicate and will deliver the message in a way that Jiraiya would not."

"So why not just have me accompany Jiraiya then. Why have me, just waiting around the village?" Zabuza asked fuzzy on that part of the Hokage's plan.

"Because you won't be sitting idle," Sarutobi replied, "Jiraiya is right in saying we need to keep up appearances to the other countries, so you and your team will be handling easy missions that keep you close to Konoha."

"Actually, I was hoping I could take Naruto on a little training trip while I search," Jiraiya interjected.

Sarutobi looked at Zabuza, who shrugged while saying, "He can have him. If you are only going to be sending us on easy missions, I'd probably have to listen to him bitch the entire time."

"Very well you can take him if he accepts," Sarutobi said then smiling at the boy's antics at the hospital added, "That is if you can find him. I haven't seen him since his escape from the hospital." Having nothing further to add he said, "That will be all gentlemen."

The pair nodded as they both left through the door, as they walked Jiraiya handed Zabuza a piece of paper saying, "Here."

"What is it?" Zabuza asked opening it up to see an address written inside.

"That is the address to Naruto's apartment building and where you guys will be living from now on," the Sannin answered.

"What about the owner he might have something to say about it considering how the brat was treated in the village before he left."

Jiraiya's eyes hardened at that, but figured he'd take a page from his newest student's book and let go of his lingering grudge with how his godson had been treated. Assuming his goofy persona said lightly, "Oh, don't worry about that I know the owner and he hasn't allowed anyone to live there since Naruto left. I'm sure he'll be happy to know that Naruto is back in residence."

Reading between the lines Zabuza said, "Sure why not. I'll go find Haku then and let him know." Before splitting up he said to the Sannin, "It's just about lunch time if you want to find the brat try hitting up that Ramen stand he is always going on about. He's probably eaten an elephants worth of the stuff since rejoining the village."

Jiraiya thanked Zabuza before going to find Naruto. Left alone Zabuza looked at the address in his hand and smirked now that he had a place to take Mei to after she inevitable cleaned him out tonight. He loved the woman, but she had one hell of a temper and his joining the leaf had probably pissed her off to no end. Sighing he decided to look up which of the high class restaurants hadn't been blown to hell and were still serving customers before finding Haku.

After Jiraya and Zabuza left Sarutobi just leaned back into his chair with a sigh, he had a third reason for wanting Jiraiya out of the village and that was due to what had happened to Kushina. He had people combing the wreckage hoping to find some sign of what happened. Whether it was a horrible result of the battle or some sort of deliberate act of vengeance against the woman or boy she sired he couldn't say. There was also the small hope that she was still alive seeing as how they had yet to identify the bodies they have found among the wreckage.

Sai knelt before his master after receiving a summons. Danzou observed him for several moments before saying, "I would like to congratulate you on successfully completing your mission." Handing Sai the headband Sarutobi had given him when he informed Danzou of Sai's inclusion into the village. To be honest he was surprised considering Sai's defeat at the hands of Suna's jinchuriki. Looking into it Danzou found out that Sarutobi had personally vouched for Sai. A move that surprised him, causing him to wonder what his rival was planning.

Sai oblivious to Danzou's thoughts said, "Thank you sir. May I ask, what are my future orders?"

"It seems you have made an impression with Team Zabuza and Sarutobi wishes for you to continue to work with them," Danzou informed. "You will continue to do so with the intentions to spy on the Kyuubi jinchuriki in an attempt to find any weaknesses that we may exploit in the future."

Sai felt a pang of something that he couldn't quite place at his instructions but years of conditioning held as he said, "Yes sir."

"Very good, you are dismissed," Danzou said. He was surprised when Sai didn't immediately comply so asked, "Is there something else?"

"Yes sir, I was wondering if I could speak with my old teammates and training partners to inform them of my advancement."

Again surprised, but not in a good way due to seeing one of his Root members having formed an attachment to his fellow members said while carefully observing the boy, "I'm afraid that's not possible. They were taken by a sudden illness shortly after you began working with Team Zabuza." Danzou caught the minute sign of the surprise that appeared on Sai's face.

However, Sai's training quickly kicked in and he said, "I see. I'll take my leave now sir." He then proceeded to leave the chamber. Danzou sat there several minutes to think on what he had just witnessed before deciding it didn't matter. In the end, he was sure all his tools would function as expected. Besides, his plan to remove the Kyuubi brat from play, should he prove to be too much of a problem, would easily survive the need to remove a defective tool just as he had Sai's teammates killed for not living up to expectations.

Naruto was on bowl sixteen as Ayame placed a new one in front of him. He was still wearing his wraps, as he liked the look, but had removed them to eat. When he had done so and Ayame and Teuchi had first seen his face they had openly welcomed him home before Ayame got angry giving him an earful. She eventually calmed down to listen as he explained that he was following the Hokage's orders. She had forgiven him in the end and Teuchi had then told him he could eat all the ramen he desired. A statement that he was regretting seeing as how he must have forgotten what a bottomless pit Naruto was when it came to ramen.

That was where Jiraiya found him on bowl thirty-seven. Smiling he said, "So it's true you are a ramen eating fiend."

"Pervy Sage," Naruto said happily.

Which caused Ayame to look up at the nickname causing Jiraiya to quickly say, "Kid, I really wish you'd stop calling me that."

"Yeah well I wish you would have been more on the ball during my training. But no, you'd spend most of the time peeking on girls." At this Ayame's gaze hardened at the Toad Sannin.

Trying to ignore the murderous look the young ramen waitress was giving him he said, "Well how about I make it up to you and take you on this little training trip I have planned."

Jiraiya expected a single response to his query which was 'Really more training lets go,' not a "No thanks I just got back to the village and want to spend time with Sakura and Hinata."

Ayame couldn't resist teasing and said, "Wow, Naruto two girlfriends already? I'm impressed."

Not getting what she was implying Naruto said, "Well they were my friends from before I left."

Smiling at the blonde's naiveté she said, "You're no fun to tease."

Jiraiya interrupted Naruto's confused response by saying, "Look kid, I don't think you understand the honor I'm bestowing upon you by taking you as my apprentice."

"And I don't think you understand that I just got home after six-years and want to spend time with my friends," Naruto replied. "Besides, what you probably want to teach me is somehow related to the Kyuubi. I admit you were right, but I don't want to become over reliant on it."

Trying a different tactic Jiraiya said with a fake sigh, "Fine, guess I'll go find that Sai kid to teach this jutsu too. Shame really, seeing as it was handed down personally by the 4th Hokage."

Leaving the stand Jiraiya couldn't keep the smile from his face as he heard Naruto quickly say his good-byes to the owner and his daughter. Running in front of him, Jiraiya marveled at how quickly Naruto had rewrapped his face. Smirking, the Sannin said, "Yes, can I help you?"

"You're on the level right?" Naruto asked, "This is really going to be a jutsu taught by the 4th Hokage."

Indignantly Jiraiya said, "Of course, I'm on the level."

"Okay, I'll go pack and meet you at the gate," Naruto said excitedly.

"Hold on kid," Jiraiya said, "First things first. Why don't you go head to your old apartment building since it's been kept empty waiting for your return?"

"Why would they do that?" Naruto asked.

"Well me and the Hokage always figured you'd come back someday, so we kept it empty for you," Jiraiya said. But thinking of the state they had found it in he added, "Also, please try and keep it in the condition you find it in. After you left, we had to pay a team of genin S-class pay to clean the place."

Rubbing the back of his head in embarrassment Naruto said, "Alright, so when should I meet you?"

"Tomorrow morning, at the main gate."

Giving a salute Naruto said "Alright, I'll see you then Pervy Sage," he then took off to grab his gear from the Hokage's training cabin to move back into his old home.

Hearing nearby women begin laughing at him he yelled after the blonde, "I told you not call me that."

Sakura made her way towards the Hokage's office at the appointed time. As she arrived she saw Sai standing in a corner by himself with Shikamaru sitting in a chair looking as bored as ever. Sasuke was standing off by himself with his arms crossed. Instead of running over and doting on him like she would have used to, she just gave him a curt head nod which surprised him. She laughed internally at that as she had been a little over bearing in her affections to Sasuke. That was why she planned to slowly try and gain Naruto's attention in the hopes of achieving better results. She waited with the others quietly till Hinata arrived with Shino. She was worried that things would be strained with Hinata despite their earlier coming to terms. However, her worries proved fruitless as Hinata immediately came over to talk to her.

Looking around Hinata asked her, "Where's Naruto?"

Sakura shook her head that she didn't know and said, "I don't think he's coming."

Before Hinata could reply Sarutobi opened his office door saying, "Good you're all here, follow me please."

The assembled genin followed him into his office. Taking a seat behind his desk the Hokage took a moment to compose himself before saying, "Now what I'm about to tell you must not leave this room as it is an S-class secret. Failure to comply with this will be punishable by death." Sarutobi took a moment to let that sink in watching as the genin shifted uncomfortably.

Sasuke after a moment asked, "Where's Ronin?"

Hinata corrected him saying heatedly, "His name is Naruto."

Sarutobi was pleased by Hinata's outburst making him more comfortable about what he was about to reveal. "Yes that is correct. His name is Naruto Uzumaki; he was born in this village on October Tenth on the night of the Kyuubi attack." Again he paused letting that sink in.

Sarutobi wasn't surprised when Shikamaru said, "Is that somehow related to that chakra he used to defeat Gaara?"

Nodding the Hokage said, "Very astute Shikamaru. That chakra you felt was the nine tails chakra. You see what you know of that night isn't entirely accurate. While the Fourth Hokage did defeat the beast he couldn't kill it, so instead sealed it into a newborn. That newborn was Naruto."

Sakura took the moment Sarutobi gave them to ask, "Why the subterfuge?"

"Tell me Sakura. Do you remember how Naruto was treated as a child?" Sarutobi asked.

Sakura though about it for a moment but remembered how her mother would often say bad things about him and how all the other adults seemed to shun him. Unable to voice her revelation she just sadly nodded her head.

"It was my hope that by covering up Naruto's involvement with the fox. You of the younger generation would treat him well," Sarutobi said sadly, "Unfortunately the older generation tried to influence their children so Naruto for the most part was still treated as an outsider."

Sakura felt tears begin at the corner of her eyes considering that for a time she had allowed her mother to influence her in such a manner. She was just glad that she had begun to think for herself or else she may have never have gained such a valuable person in her life.

Hinata however, was having a different train of thought as she asked, "Is that the reason Naruto left the village because people shunned him?"

"No," Sarutobi answered, "The reason he left was because of a traitor named Mizuki."

"Mizuki-sensei," Shikamaru said confused.

"Yes, it turns out he was assisting the Cloud-nin that tried to abduct Hinata six years ago. An attempt Naruto thwarted," he paused as Hinata and Sakura shared a look. "However, after the failed kidnapping and during the search for Naruto. Mizuki, who hated him because of the Kyuubi sealed inside of him, used the opportunity to try and kill Naruto. He failed, but threatened that should Naruto return to the village he would kill Hinata and Sakura. So he decided to leave in order to protect them." He watched as both girls eyes teared up even more so said to the group, "I know how the Kyuubi's chakra can feel and therefore I felt you all should know the truth. But try to remember that Naruto is not the fox, so please treat him as you would any other member of this village. You all may leave now. Yet, please take my words under advisement."

The genin began to depart he noticed that Sakura was the first one out of the office followed by Shino and Hinata. Before Sai could leave he said, "Sai a moment please."

"Yes Lord Hokage," the pale boy said.

"I was just wondering how you feel about what I revealed?" Sarutobi asked not really concerned figuring Danzou already knew, but looking for some insight into the boy's mind.

"I do not see how knowing should affect my opinion of him," Sai said confused, "He has proven to be a valuable ally…and friend."

"Good, I'm glad to hear that," Sarutobi said greatly pleased, "I hope I can ask you to do me a favor then?"

Sai nodded his head for the Hokage to continue. Smiling Sarutobi said, "Please look after him for me. Not just as a teammate, but as a friend."

Sai said, "Yes Lord Hokage," he then left the office. As he made his way to his apartment he didn't understand why he had felt the urge to tell the Hokage about what Danzou ordered him to do. Was it because he felt Naruto was a friend? In the end it didn't matter he supposed as the curse seal on his tongue would prevent him for spilling any of Root's secrets.

Hinata was lost in thought as she left the Hokage's tower. She didn't care that Naruto had the Kyuubi sealed inside him. What bothered her was the revelation that Mizuki was behind his leaving for six-years, and that he used his caring for her and Sakura as the means do it. She vowed that if she ever met the traitor she would make sure he knew of her displeasure. She was pulled from her dark thoughts by Shino who asked, "What do you make of what we learned Hinata?"

"I could care less about what he has sealed inside him," Hinata said, "You heard the Hokage. He left the village for my sake. Not to mention he prevented me from being kidnapped. Why what do you think?"

"I admit to having been worried, however coming from the Aburame clan I am familiar to being judged based on what you have inside of you," Shino said calmly. "I feel that Naruto deserves to be judged based on his own merits and besides it is obvious you think highly of him. Furthermore, you are an excellent judge of character."

Smiling that one of her friends would give Naruto a chance she said, "Thank you Shino."

"Thanks are not necessary. I witnessed his battle with Gaara, he fought incredibly hard to protect all of us from him. Now I sense you wish to find him."

"Yes," Hinata said, "I'm afraid the reason he wasn't at the meeting was because he was afraid we would reject him."

"Do not allow me to keep you then." Saying goodbye to her friend she took off in search of the Blonde to let him know he could always count on her to be at his side.

Mei was sitting in the restaurant that the message Zabuza had left at her hotel's front desk said to meet at. She was nervous despite the fact that she was still mad at him. The situation almost reminded her of their first date. Thinking back to that day she had been pissed at him about something or other so he had in an effort to quiet her down said he take her out to dinner. It had been just to a local restaurant nothing fancy like the place she was currently sitting in, but it had suited her image of him. He had even walked her home, where she had stolen his first kiss. Even though she was distracted she was still alert enough to know that someone was approaching.

She tried to keep her face schooled into one of anger, however seeing him dressed up somewhat minus his face wraps she couldn't help but let a small smile grace her lips. Smothering it she crossed her arms under her bosom saying, "Well, I think it's time you explain yourself, don't you?"

Sighing Zabuza went into all the details of what happened between him and Orochimaru. By the end of his tale, he saw that Mei was looking at him with stars in her eyes as she said, "So you did it to protect your boys?"

"Let's not forget saving my own ass," Zabuza replied.

She just smiled sweetly at him but didn't reply due to the waiter showing up for their orders. After placing them she said, "You always try to play the tuff guy, but I know deep down you care for them more than you worry for yourself. If it was just you alone out there I half suspect that you would have challenged Orochimaru to a fight."

Smirking Zabuza replied, "No thanks, my days of acting foolishly like that are behind me."

Looking away sadly she said, "What about us though? Aren't you going to help me topple Yagura?"

"Mei I can't." Zabuza said reaching across the table for her hand. "I'm a Leaf shinobi now. I can't get involved unless we somehow go to war with Kirigakure." Seeing her sadness reflected in her eyes he said, "You don't need me there Mei. You've already assembled more people to help you within Kirigakure than I ever could."

"But I want you there," she said while tightening the grip on his hand, "But your right. You have a responsibility to the Leaf now and your boys. However, don't think that means you're off the hook with marrying me. As soon as Yagura has been toppled, I'm returning here so you can make an honest woman out of me."

"I look forward to it."

Naruto was sitting on the Fourth's head looking over the village. He knew that the 3rd was telling the others about the Kyuubi, but he felt no need to be there himself. He had long ago realized that people would either accept him or they wouldn't. He had realized that after Zabuza and Haku had learned the truth about him. Besides, of everyone present he would admit that only what Hinata and Sakura thought of him mattered. It would hurt if they rejected him; however he wasn't afraid of that. After all, neither had reacted with fear when they had felt the Kyuubi chakra during his fight with Gaara and for the pair it would actually be the second time. Therefore there was very little doubt in his mind that they would abandon him. He heard someone approaching so turning he found Hinata walking towards him.

Hinata stopped and just stared at Naruto as he began to turn towards her. As his eyes met hers, she felt her heart speed up. She was glad that she found him first as she had encountered Sakura running around the village probably hoping to comfort him as well. Although, now that she was here with him alone staring into his blue eyes she found herself unable to speak.

Luckily for her, Naruto took control calling out happily, "Hey Hinata."

Feeling her face heat up she said, "W-w-why weren't you at the Hokage's office." Cursing herself for feeling so nervous in his presence. How could she expect to be with him if she couldn't even speak to him without stuttering?

Smiling at her he said, "There was no point to me being there. You and Sakura were the only people's whose opinion of me matters and I know you two wouldn't stop being my friends."

Hinata's heart skipped a beat knowing that Naruto thought so highly of her. However, it was also tempered by the fact that he was linking Sakura into the statement. But she supposed that was good for her as well seeing as she had thought Sakura had an advantage due to her looks.

She felt herself grow more confident in her dealings with him though and was pleased that when she said, "I'll always be there for you Naruto," she didn't stutter.

"Naruto"

The pair both turned to see Sakura running up to them. Naruto began waving to her while Hinata gave a little pout at being interrupted. When Sakura arrived she began panting from her running around the village while looking for Naruto. Although she may have been training harder lately it was apparent she still had a long way to go.

In between breaths she said, "Naruto…I… was…hoping…I…could talk…to you?"

Although his face was wrapped both girls could tell he was smiling as he said, "Sure I'm right here. Feel free to say what you want."

Sakura looked at Hinata for a moment causing Hinata to gulp suddenly afraid that she was going to ask Naruto out right here and now. Turning her gaze away a sad look appeared on her face as she said, "I wanted to say I'm sorry."

Naruto's eyes revealed his confusion as he said, "What do you have to be sorry about?"

Unable to look him in the eye she said, "I used to be like the people who ignored you." Wrapping her arms around herself she continued, "Even after you saved me from the Cloud-nin I allowed what others thought about you to influence me and…"

"It doesn't matter Sakura," Naruto said calmly surprising both girls.

"But…" she tried to say only for Naruto to shake his head telling her not to continue.

As she tapered off he said, "Sakura, I know I'm not well liked in the village. Can I ask you something? What do your parents think of me?"

"My Dad died when I was still an infant a few days before the Kyuubi attacked Konoha," Sakura said, "But my mom…my mom hates you."

Naruto just gave a sad smile as he said, "I figured as much. I may not have had any parents, but even I know that you're expected to trust your parent's judgment. So if she told you to hate me then you should trust that there is a reason for it."

"But…" she tried to say again only for Naruto to hold up his hand so he could say, "Yet despite that you are here now trying to apologize to me for listening to what your mom told you."

Tears leaking from her eyes she asked, "How can you be so forgiving?"

Turning away he looked over the village as he said, "Because someday I plan to be Hokage. I know it's going to be an uphill battle for me. Especially due to the Kyuubi, but when I do attain that dream I can't hold it against the people that treated me poorly, and will have to act with their best interests in my heart. So what good is it at getting angry at them particularly if they may eventually come around as you have?" As he finished his sentence both girls had a vision of him standing there as an adult decked out in the Hokage's robes. Blinking their eyes the vision faded but left both girls with the desire to help him achieve that dream.

Having enough of being somber he said smiling; "Besides you are one of my precious people. I could never stay mad at you."

Blushing and accepting that if Naruto could so easily forgive her, then she should forgive herself said, "Thank you Naruto."

Hinata having enough of being the third wheel said while pointing her fingers together, "Naruto, do you have a girlfriend?"

Clueless Naruto said, "Of course I do."

Unaware that he may have broken a pair of hearts he said, "Aren't you and Sakura my friends and you're both girls right?"

"She means…" Sakura began, but realized that Naruto, at least as far as it came to girls and relationships, was a bit naïve choose not to finish her sentence instead saying, "Of course we are."

Sakura went up to him and grabbing his left arm said, "Now how about I treat you to some ramen?"

Hinata not about to be outdone said taking hold of his right arm, "That sounds like a great idea Sakura."

Sakura looked at her rival and friend sending her a tiny glare that was mirrored in Hinata's face. Naruto, oblivious to both girls' intentions for him, happily allowed himself to be led away for free ramen.

Naruto met Jiraiya at the gate at the appointed time the next morning. It had felt good to sleep in his old apartment even if he barely recognized the place. Apparently, during the six years he was gone it had gone through some renovations. The whole first floor had been stripped of its apartments, instead only a few rooms that had given Naruto the impression that they were offices remained. Also, the lobby had been opened up as if it was where a daimyo would greet guests. The upstairs had remained somewhat the same but all of the apartments had been made bigger. His for example was now a three bedroom apartment. Haku and Zabuza had moved in as well each taking an apartment of their own.

As they walked Naruto asked, "So why do we have to leave the village for this training?"

"Well I have to find a woman for the Hokage," Jiraiya answered.

After a few moments Jiraiya became aware that he was walking by himself. Turning around he saw Naruto heading back to Konoha. Running in front of him he asked, "Hey, where do you think you're going?"

"Forget it, I knew this was a bad idea," Naruto said trying to walk around the Sannin. "You'll be so busy being a pervert that I won't get any training in."

"Look kid," Jiraiya said seriously, "The woman I'm looking for is my old teammate okay. It's a mission given to us personally by the Hokage. So trust me." Seeing the skeptical look on Naruto's wrapped face he said, "Alright tell you what, I'll show you the jutsu once we arrive at the town we're heading to. If you aren't impressed, I'll take you back to Konoha and go search by myself."

"Deal"

Hinata headed out after morning training with her father and sister. All of the Rookie teams had been given the week off, as their jounin-senseis were out completing missions that were considered too difficult for the genin. With her day free she headed over to Naruto's apartment since he said he had moved back in. Reaching it she entered and saw the lobby which reminded her where her father would greet guests. Heading up stairs she knocked on the door. Receiving no answer she tried again. She was tempted to use her Byakugan, but it was discouraged especially around residential areas. Plus, she didn't know if any of the other apartments were occupied.

Knocking a third time, the door behind her opened and she hoped that it was a case that she had remembered the wrong apartment number. However, that hope was dashed as the man standing in the door way, who was only wearing a towel and either just got out of the shower or was sweating said, "What do you want?"

Recognizing the gruff voice of Zabuza she said, "Is Naruto here?"

"No, he's on a mission with Jiraiya for Kami knows how long, so stop with all the damn knocking," he said as he began closing the door. But before it closed all the way she heard a woman's voice say, "You should be nicer to your boy's friends dear." However, Zabuza's reply was cutoff as the door closed completely.

As she made her way from the apartment she caught site of Sakura holding a package in her hands as she apparently was heading to Naruto's as well. Cutting her off she said, "Naruto is away on a mission."

Sakura looked at her and Hinata wondered if she thought she was lying but in the end she said, "Oh." Looking at the package in her hand she said, "Do you want some of these cookies then?"

Hinata smiled as she took a few and asked "Do you want to do something?"

Smiling back Sakura said, "Sure how about we spar and then go to the hot springs."

Hinata agreed and the pair headed to the training field glad that they could still function as friends despite their shared interest in Naruto.

In one of the Sound bases located in Rice Field Country, Orochimaru was suspended in a nutrient bath helping him to recover from the third degree burns that covered his body. Even with chakra healing it would be several weeks before he would be back on his feet. While medical ninjutsu could normal cure an ailment like his in a few treatments. His immortality jutsu had the side affect that such cures weren't nearly as affective on him as they would be on a normal person. Somebody like Tsunade might be able to find a way around it, but unfortunately Kabuto had yet too.

Aware of Kabuto entering the room he said in a raspy voice, "Ah...Kabuto."

"You sent for me lord Orochimaru," Kabuto said bowing slightly, "Is the nutrient bath not to your liking?"

"It's…fine, what I want from…you is to find me Tsunade," Orochimaru replied in agonizing pain.

"May I inquire as to why? If it has to do with the time frame of your recovery we may speed it up by enriching these nutrient baths," Kabuto said worried he had some way disappointed his master.

"I don't wish… for you to…find her for me….but dear Kimimaro," Orochimaru hissed through clenched teeth, "Sasuke isn't as developed as I wish my next host to be. So…we will turn our attentions to healing Kimimaro…hopefully he'll still be…of use to me."

"Very well sir," Kabuto said while pushing up his glasses.

"Good… then I'll leave it in your… capable hands," Orochimaru said weakly dismissing his subordinate.

Jiraiya knew Tsunade like the back of his hand, therefore he planned to hit towns with gambling halls first. He was sitting in one such hall as he heard a ruckus behind him. Turning, he was glad he was in a henge as standing in the doorway was Tsunade followed by her attendant Shizune. The dark haired girl looked nervous as Tsunade place a suitcase down and opened it revealing a large sum of cash. He listened in as an obviously new dealer asked what the big deal was; Jiraiya smirked as the head dealer told him they were in the presence of 'The Legendary Sucker.'

He stayed long enough to watch her blow through half of her cash. Leaving the hall he summoned two toads one to head to Konoha and another to watch Tsunade. He then made his way to the local loan shark. He knew that he had to keep Tsunade in the town for a couple of days at least until Zabuza arrived as a result he intended to cover her debts and set up a line of credit for her. He warned the loan shark to string her along and not to tell her why he was being so generous. That done, he then proceeded to head out of town to check on Naruto.

Arriving at the edge of town he found several Narutos attempting to pop the water balloons he had bought him upon arriving. Naruto had been training non-stop since he had shown him the Rasengan that morning. With seven clones working in conjunction with him, Jiraiya figured he had been training the equivalent of a week. Smirking he figured it would take Naruto at least several months to master this stage. Naruto dispersed the clones and appeared to get light headed for a moment. Resting for twenty minutes he got back up grabbed a balloon and popped it using his second hand to add chakra. Jiraiya was stunned; however he knew that the next stage wouldn't be nearly as easy. Also, he wanted Naruto to master this stage the right way.

Making his presence know he said, "Well done."

Turning to Jiraiya he said, "Told you I'd get this down in no time."

"Now don't get cocky kid," Jiraiya warned, "sure you got around this part in a day. Using a nifty trick only you can really do. However, the next stage is immeasurably harder.

Undaunted Naruto said, "Well bring it on then."

"Not so fast kid," Jiraiya said, "Pop the balloon with one hand."

"I can't"

"Then you haven't mastered this stage yet and therefore I can't let you know the next task," Jiraiya said taking a small bit of joy in bursting Naruto's bubble for all the times Naruto called him Pervy Sage.

Naruto not thrilled that his hard work was being blown off said, "All you said to do was pop it. You didn't say there was a right or a wrong way to do it."

"I didn't say the way you did it was wrong," Jiraiya replied trying to placate the boy, "But there is a better way to do it. Let me give you an example. Did you know the Chidori is considered an incomplete jutsu without the Sharingan? "

"It looked complete to me," Naruto said.

Chuckling Jiraiya said, "I can imagine, but you faced it against an opponent that hadn't unlocked Sharingan. If you faced him now you might still beat him, but his Chidori would be harder to avoid for the Sharingan covers its weakness that it is a straight line attack. The Rasengan is the same, yet it is considered complete. Even though it theoretically can be advanced even further. Do you know what the difference is?"

Naruto shook his head so Jiraiya said, "There are no hand signs for Rasengan. Therefore, it can be unleashed at a moment's notice. Think about it. When Sasuke prepared Chidori he stood there making hand signs and then it still took time for his jutsu to reach full power." To make his point Jiraiya quickly formed a Rasengan spun and smashed it into a tree shredding it. "If I let you advance the way you mastered the first stage, you would be suffering from the same weaknesses as Chidori. Needing time to prepare the jutsu, that you may not always be given."

Naruto still looking at the tree said, "I can see your point… I guess."

"Good," Jiraiya said smiling, "However, you learned something about how to pop the balloon. Just apply it to using one hand and you'll be at stage two in no time. Now let's get something to eat. Also, try and keep the Pervy Sage stuff to yourself. Tsunade is here and I don't need her getting wind that I'm in town till Zabuza gets here."

Smirking beneath his wraps Naruto said, "Well then, I guess no booze and women for you tonight."

Jiraiya's face got ghostly white as the realization that he wouldn't be able to live his Super Pervert lifestyle for the next few days sank in. Following behind the Blonde he sent a silent prayer to Kami that Zabuza would hurry.

Kakashi was returning from a solo A-class mission when he stumbled across two people wearing cloaks with red clouds on them. He may not have been Naruto's sensei, but his close association with the boy's father meant Jiraiya could trust him to keep an eye out for those who might pose a problem to Naruto. He discreetly tailed them hoping to stumble across a fellow jounin that he could ask to back him up. It became apparent that they knew he was following though when the pair took a turn down a deserted street. Taking a deep breath he followed them.

The street was a little used one that ran near the river that passed through Konoha. As he walked down it he could see the two he was pursing stop and turn towards him. Getting closer he said, "Well I must say you two have chosen a nice place for a battle."

"Hello Kakashi," said an unemotional voice.

Upon hearing the voice Kakashi's visible lone eye widened. Narrowing it he said, "Itachi, you have a lot of guts to just come strolling back into Konoha."

Itachi's partner began chuckling saying, "My, my Itachi, you're as despised here as I am in my home village." As he spoke the taller man removed the sun guard he wore revealing the blue face of Kisame Hoshigaki.

Kakashi, recognized the blue-man thinking to himself, "Crap, I may have bitten off more than I could chew." Stalling for time he said, "So, what are two S-class missing-nins doing in Konoha?"

Itachi removed his own sun guard and opened his cloak as he said, "Our business is our own. Leave us in peace and there will be no need for trouble."

"Afraid I can't just allow two members of Akatsuki to run around as they like in my home village," Kakashi said lifting his headband to reveal the Sharingan.

Itachi's eyes widen slightly upon hearing Kakashi call them by their organization's name. Sighing slightly he said, "It looks like a fight is inevitable."

Pulling his sword from his back Kisame said, "Let me deal with him Itachi."

"Very well, however try not to be too flashy. Your jutsus tend to attract attention," Itachi warned.

"You're no fun," Kisame said. Then addressing Kakashi taunted, "Well show me what you got Sharingan Kakashi."

Readying himself Kakashi pulled a kunai and charged while wondering why Itachi would stay out of the fight. While he knew Kisame technically outclassed him he felt he could put up a good fight. So why not double team him to end it quickly. Further thought on the matter proved impossible as he entered Kisame's range, causing the shark man to swing downward at him with his bandaged sword. Kakashi dodged the strike, but Kisame quickly pulled the sword back catching Kakashi in the side shredding his flak jacket. Jumping back he made several hand-signs and called out, "Fire Style: Great Fireball Jutsu."

Kisame and Itachi both scattered as the jutsu hit where they had been standing. Kisame was smiling as he said, "Alright that's what I'm talking about…"

"Step aside Kisame," Itachi said, "You're shouldn't have allowed him to use that jutsu. He intended it to call for help. I'll handle this."

Meeting Kakashi's Sharingan Itachi said, "It is impressive that you have mastered the Sharingan to that level, but it is not going to help you against me."

Trying to get a little more information Kakashi said guessing, "What do you want with the Fourth's legacy?"

Again surprised Itachi said evenly, "You are better informed than you should be Kakashi."

Kakashi's looked on in shock as Itachi's Sharingan began to morph into another form. The tomoe's for his eyes began to grow into one another. The final result was that his eyes appeared to have a three tipped shuriken in them. The next thing Kakashi knew his whole perspective changed as he appeared in the world of Tsukuyomi. After being tortured ruthlessly for what appeared to be three days he found himself in the real world again and fell to his knees.

"Well after suffering all that he's still conscious," Kisame said, "Don't tell me your losing your touch Itachi."

"I left him is that state so we can question him on how he knows so much about our movements," Itachi replied ignoring the implied insult. "Collect him, for me would you."

"Sure thing," Kisame said slowly walking towards the struggling Kakashi. Just as he was about to reach down and pick him up he was struck by a hard kick that sent him flying as he heard, "Leaf severe Hurricane."

When he recovered, Kisame saw the most bizarre looking man he had ever had the misfortune to gaze upon standing there, flanked by an entire Anbu team led by a woman in a Cat mask. Turning to his rival Guy said, "We got your signal Kakashi. But it appears you have seen better days."

"t-Thanks … Guy," Kakashi managed weakly before passing out.

Turning to the pair of Akatsuki, Guy said, "What they must of put him through."

One of the Anbu took a step back saying "T-t-that's Itachi."

Cat turned to the man harshly saying, "Suck it up. We have him outnumbered; besides today is as good as any to die." This caused the members of her team to shift uncomfortably as they have noticed the change in Yuugao's behavior ever since Hayate's death.

Giving his too bright smile Guy said, after picking up Kakashi and handing him to one of the Anbu, "Nobody is going to die today, unless you count those traitors. Cat I'll handle Itachi. I have the most experience fighting against the Sharingan. You and your team take his partner."

Giving a predatory smile Kisame said, "I'll take on the whole lot of you."

"Kisame we're leaving," Itachi ordered, "As tempting as it may be we aren't here to start a full blown war," he then shunshined away.

Kisame hung around a few seconds more to say, "Pfft, you're lucky punks," before leaving like his partner.

Cat went to pursue saying to her men, "What are you just standing around for after them." However before she could leave Guy grabbed her arm saying, "Let them go Cat. We were lucky they didn't wish to push matters and I doubt you'll be able to catch them anyway."

Shaking her arm loose she said, "Whatever coward," before leaving with her team in pursuit.

Guy took possession of Kakashi saying, "Let's go get you checked out my eternal rival. Hopefully the doctors will be able to get you back on your feet."

Jiraiya's toad that he had placed on the road to tell him when Zabuza and his team were coming informed him they were on their way. Telling the toad to give them Tsunade's current whereabouts he told Naruto to stop what he was doing and to follow him. He knew it was against the Third's orders but after watching her for a week he knew she wouldn't go quietly. So hoping to be on hand he and Naruto entered the restaurant that she was currently eating in.

Upon entering he saw that she was standing calling for more sake much to the chagrin of her attendant Shizune. Tsunade saw Jiraiya enter calling out confused and surprised, "Jiraiya!"

Playing his comical self he said, "Tsunade!" while pointing at her. "Well is this a small world."

Naruto said confused, "What are you talking about you've been…"

Clapping a hand over his mouth Jiraiya whispered, "Keep a lid on it kid and I'll buy you all the ramen you can eat when we get you back home got it." Naruto just nodded his head in reply, so Jiraiya removed his hand saying to Tsunade, "Mind if we join you?"

Staring at the pair suspiciously she said, "Fine."

Jiraiya then made introductions for Naruto. Upon mentioning his name Tsunade gave him a long look before saying, "So you finally found him, huh?"

"Actually he returned to the village only recently," Jiraiya said.

"So what are you doing out here then?" Tsunade questioned.

Jiraiya didn't really have an answer prepared causing him to stutter until he was saved by the arrival of Team Zabuza. Sending Jiraiya a confused look Zabuza began moving towards them. Stepping up to the table with Haku and Sai flanking him he said, "Tsunade Senju?"

Looking up and seeing the Leaf headbands on their foreheads she spit out, "What do you want?"

"You have been ordered to return to the Leaf Village," Zabuza informed her. "We will act as your escorts for the trip."

Scoffing Tsunade simply took another drink from her cup doing her best to ignore the jounin. Eyebrow twitching Zabuza said, "Look here lady, you have been ordered back by the Hokage. You will comply or I will force you to comply."

The bar got quiet as Tsunade calmly set her cup down and then with deadly calm voice said, "Do you have any idea who you are talking to?"

Naruto having enough of sitting on the side lines said, "A drunk old lady that likes to pretend she is younger."

Turning to the blonde boy sitting next to Jiraiya she said indignantly, "Why you little brat. I dare you to say that again."

Naruto was about to take her up on that dare when Jiraiya silenced everyone by slamming his hand on the table. With a hard edge in his voice he said addressing his old teammate, "Tsunade you would disregard an order issued to you by the Hokage."

"I don't owe the Leaf anything," she shot back.

"That doesn't matter in the least," Jiraiya growled back, "You will return to the village or I will make you. And if necessary I'll carry you kicking and screaming down the main street of Konoha. Do you understand?"

Shocked due to her never having been talked to in such a manner by Jiraiya before, all Tsunade could say was a weak, "Jiraiya…" before being cut off by said Sannin who emphasizing each word said, "Do. You. Understand."

Feeling sorry for her master, Shizune hoping she would make the right choice said, "Please Lady Tsunade. Let us at least see what the Hokage wants."

Tsunade sat there for several moments weighing her options and found that she didn't really have any other than to return. While she didn't doubt she could take Zabuza and his punk kids she knew fighting Jiraiya would be a difficult battle. Growling she said, "Fine, we'll leave in the morning. Is that acceptable?"

Although she was addressing Jiraiya it was Zabuza who responded saying, "Sure."

"Let's go Shizune," she said standing, "I don't much feel like company anymore."

Heading to the door she stopped when Jiraiya said in a low and dangerous tone, "Tsunade, don't even think about running. If you do, you will be branded a missing-nin and will be treated accordingly by me personally."

Although he couldn't see her face he knew his words hit home as her whole body stiffened. However, she didn't respond opting to walk out of the restaurant. Shizune did look back at the table sadly before following her master.

Once the pair was gone Zabuza and the others took the empty spots at the table. After a minute of staring Zabuza said, "Care to explain why you disobeyed the Hokage?"

Leaning back in the booth Jiraiya said, "You saw how she is. She probably would of fought you rather than go back."

"Yeah, I guess you got a point," Zabuza conceded. "So do you think she'll run?"

Thinking for a moment he said, "Hard to say. If she was by herself, then maybe. But she wouldn't want to put Shizune in a bad situation, so I think she'll be there in the morning. However, just in case we'll take shifts watching her hotel."

Zabuza accepted that so they divvied up the night between them, however it proved to be unnecessary as in the morning Tsunade showed up with Shizune a tow to return to the village. Reaching the group she said, "Well let's get going. The sooner we get there the sooner I can tell the Old Man to forget it and get on with my life."

As the group left they were unaware of a woman watching from the shadows. Tsukino had followed several leads to find the legendary Tsunade only to arrive as she was being led away by Leaf shinobi. Cursing her luck, she left the village as silently as she arrived and prayed that Lord Orochimaru was in a good mood when she delivered the news.

Watching the group leave from a distant outcropping of rocks two cloaked figures watched as the group made its way along the road. The taller of the two said, "Well how about it, was the information worth the price we paid? Is the Kyuubi brat traveling with Jiraiya?"

"He's with them." Itachi said.

"How can you be sure?" questioned Kisame.

Itachi didn't respond but merely stared at his partner. Getting the point Kisame said, "Ah, those eyes of yours can see the tailed beasts within their hosts. So how do you want to proceed?"

"We'll report our findings to Pain," Itachi said. "The woman traveling with them is Tsunade of the Sannin."

"Too bad," Kisame said smirking, "I was hoping to get reacquainted with my old friend Zabuza."

"There'll be plenty of time for that later," Itachi said turning to leave. "If the information we received is correct, Zabuza was the one who had been traveling with the Kyuubi jinchuriki for the past six-years. I doubt he will just let us take him."

Showing his sharpened teeth Kisame said, "No I imagine he won't. I look forward to taking another person he cares about away from him." The pair then took off to Rain Country to report their findings to Pain.

Sarutobi was behind his desk with his pipe lit lost in thought. He was now doubly glad he had decided to bring Tsunade back to Konoha. Due in part to the fact that none of the doctors had been able to wake Kakashi yet. However, what was troubling him even more at the moment was the idea that Itachi was working with Akatsuki. He had always hoped that Itachi had found a quiet place to call his own where he could live in peace. Yet, that appeared not to be the case. What was he planning? He knew he had focused Sasuke's anger and hatred onto him hoping that his younger brother would one day deliver the punishment he felt he deserved. Was that why he was working for Akatsuki? To build up more sins so when Sasuke eventually came for him and killed him people would cheer Sasuke as a hero. That was possible he supposed, yet it seemed too narrow minded for the man who had made it into Anbu at age thirteen.

Ultimately the only person that knew Itachi's true goals and motives was Itachi. Whatever they may be and no matter the debt owed to him by Konoha. Sarutobi would not allow him to get his hands on the Fourth's Legacy. He had failed the 4th too many times already. When Jiraiya got back he would have him focus on Akatsuki for a while, hopefully he would be able to better figure out the mysterious organizations own motives and by proxy Itachi's.