AN: Thanks to the reviewers. They keep me motivated to churn out chapters. Thank you, your humble author S. o. t. A.
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto and I'm doing this for fun not profit.
Chapter 21: A Wager
As the sunset Shizune gathered up her belongings and felt tears at the corner of her eyes. She just couldn't leave Tsunade, she didn't know if that made here weak or loyal. However, she supposed it didn't matter seeing as Tsunade needed her more than Konoha did. Hearing her master enter the hotel room she went out to the living room with suitcase in hand.
Tsunade saw Shizune packed and ready to go. She was honored by her student's dedication and it warmed her heart but also let her know she had made the right decision as she said, "Good you're packed."
"Yes Lady Tsunade your suitcase is also prepared," Shizune said quietly without emotion.
"Good, I've prepared more permanent quarters near the hospital where I feel we will be spending a majority of our time," Tsunade told her apprentice.
Not really listening Shizune said, "Yes Lady Tsunade…" however what her master said finally pierced the funk she was in as she realized what Tsunade was implying.
"You mean we're staying," she said excitedly.
Nodding her head Tsunade said, "I couldn't let you throw away your happiness for me Shizune."
Her eyes getting watery, which caused the Slug Princess's own eyes to tear up, Shizune said, "Thank you Lady Tsunade."
Trying to act tough Tsunade said, "Well come, on this stuff isn't going to move itself." As she reached for her suitcase Tsunade couldn't really say she was glad to be in the Leaf, but seeing Shizune's joy at her decision, she knew it had been the right choice. After all Shizune was one of the most important people in her life. There was very little she wouldn't do for her apprentice. So leading the way Tsunade wondered what this newest chapter in her life had in store for her and whether or not it would end in tragedy like so many of the other ones had.
Dawn saw Hiashi Hyuuga training with his daughters. He marveled at what the color orange seemed to do for his girls as ever since Hanabi had taken to wearing the color she had become more confident and bold in her Jyuuken Stance. Which he could see as the two spared in front of him. She was still no match for Hinata but that may come in time. Idly he wondered, "Perhaps I should make orange the official color of the Hyuuga?"
Watching as his eldest began going on the offensive against her sister he noted that Hinata seemed happier than she had ever been. Granted she hadn't been depressed or anything before but now the feeling of sadness that sometimes appeared around her seemed to have lifted. He had a good idea as to what the reason behind that was. It was obvious the return of Naruto Uzumaki was the cause of that joy.
Reaching the allotted time for today's exercise he said, "Daughters that is enough for today."
Both girls stopped and took up kneeling positions in front of him so he asked, "Hinata, what are your duties for the day?"
"None that I am aware of father," Hinata answered, "Kurenai-sensei is still on a mission so Team Eight is on stand-by."
"Then I have a task I wish for you to complete for me," Hiashi said sternly while secretly amused at what he was about to do to his daughter. "I understand that Naruto Uzumaki has returned triumphantly to the village. Is that correct?"
Blushing slightly at the mention of his name, Hinata said, "Yes father."
"Excellent then I want you to invite him over for a banquet in his honor tomorrow night," Hiashi said enjoying the blush that spread across his daughter's cheeks. He wasn't so blind that he hadn't realized that over the years Hinata had developed feeling for her savior and while it would undoubtedly be a hard road for her should she chose to pursue the boy. Especially if some of the more influential Main Branch Families caught wind of it, he would do his best to support her.
"What of his sensei and teammates?" Hinata asked concerned that if they weren't invited then Naruto wouldn't come.
"An excellent point," Hiashi said,"Let him know they are invited as well seeing as the Leaf owes Zabuza a debt for watching over one of its own."
"Yes Father," Hinata said trying to keep a huge smile from appearing on her face.
"Good then you are dismissed," Hiashi said keeping the smile from his own face.
Hinata immediately sprung up hugging her father before leaving to complete her task. As her sister left Hanabi said, "She seems usually motivated to completing a chore that seems to be nothing more than handing out an invitation father."
Laughing lightly at his younger daughter's naiveté he said, "She does indeed."
Sarutobi was standing in front of his desk looking proudly at the three young men assembled before him. The results from the Jounin council were in and he was looking at the three newest chunin among the Leaf's forces. "Let me start by saying that I'm proud of all three of you and trust you will bring much honor to your new positions,' Sarutobi said smiling. "When I call your name step forward and receive your vests."
"Shikamaru Nara,"
The lazy Nara received his vest shaking the Hokage's hand before stepping back.
"Haku"
Haku followed suit doing much the same as Shikamaru before retaking his place in line.
"Naruto Uzumaki"
Naruto walked forward to take his vest but instead of shaking the Hokage's hand he gave the man a hug. Which caused Shikamaru to tense fearing the boy was about to attack. The Hokage however just smiled saying, "Easy there Naruto, I'm quite delicate you know."
Rubbing the back of his head embarrassed at his emotional outburst he said, "Ah, you're still plenty tough Old Man."
Naruto took his position so the Hokage said, "Now are there any questions about your new duties?"
Haku raised his hand. When the Hokage motioned for him to continue he said, "Sir may I ask why I was promoted? I don't feel my match was all that spectacular."
Chuckling, the Hokage said, "While your defeat of Kankurou wasn't as impressive as some of the other matches. Let us not forget that you helped me face Orochimaru with several Anbu as witnesses of your prowess in battle. I assure you they were quite impressed. I wouldn't be surprised if in a few years they ask you to join their forces."
Embarrassed at the praise Haku said, "Thank you Lord Hokage."
"No, my boy," Sarutobi said kindly, "thank you. Now if there isn't anything else I'll let you all go to celebrate."
Naruto and Haku made their way out of the tower but were stopped when they heard, "Naruto." Turning they saw Sakura waving to them followed by Kakashi and the rest of Team Seven. Running up she said upon noticing his new vest, "You've been promoted," then giving him a hug she added, "Congratulations."
"Thanks Sakura," he said warmly.
Turning to Haku she smiled saying, "And congratulations to you to Haku."
"Thank you Sakura," Haku said.
Not seeing anyone else with them she said, "Were you two the only promotions?"
Shaking his head Naruto said, "No Shikamaru was promoted as well, but he took off as soon as we left the Hokage's office." Leaning in conspiratorially he said a little sadly, "I don't think he likes me."
Sakura's eyes hardened at the idea that Shikamaru might not like Naruto thinking that it was related to the Kyuubi. But losing that hardness as she looked into his blue eye, she said, "Let me buy you some ramen to celebrate. "
"Actually Sakura, don't you think you should ask my permission before going off to buy Naruto a meal," Kakashi said in good humor, "By the way, well done Naruto and you to Haku."
"Thanks Kakashi-sensei," Naruto said for the pair with Haku just nodding his head.
"Please Kakashi-sensei," Sakura said giving a small pout, "Besides didn't you say you had a doctor's appointment."
Kakashi sighed at having to go to the bane of all shinobi which was the hospital but Tsunade had insisted to make sure that there were no lingering effects of the Tsukuyomi. "Have a good time then," Kakashi said chuckling as Sakura grabbed Naruto by the hand to lead him away.
As she left she said, "You're more than welcome to join us Haku."
Smiling and knowing that the girl was only being polite he said, "No thank you, I assure you I've had more than enough Ramen lately. In addition I think the last thing you want is for me to accompany you."
Blushing at being caught she mouthed a silent 'thank you' to the boy as she led Naruto away. Naruto as confused as ever said to Sakura, "Why does Haku think you don't want him to come along?"
"I'm not sure," she lied.
Sasuke watched as Sakura led Naruto away. He would usually be glad that what he used to think of as one of his more annoying fan girls was leaving him alone. However the person she was leaving him alone for was what raised his ire slightly. Ever since Naruto had returned and he learned his secret he had felt jealous of the boy. To know that he had all the power of the nine tails at his beck and call. A power, which he felt would be better suited in his hands for his vengeance against Itachi.
He was pulled from his dark thoughts by Kiba who said, "Man I just don't get what they see in him."
"They," Sasuke asked confused.
"You're joking right," Kiba said, "You haven't noticed that Hinata has been hanging around Naruto ever chance she gets."
"Why would I notice that?" Sasuke said, "I don't usually travel in the same circles as Hinata."
"Point taken, but trust me it's pretty annoying," Kiba joked.
"Whatever," Sasuke said humorlessly, "I'm going to go train if we're done for the day."
"Yeah, I guess me and Akamaru should go bug my mom for some training," Kiba said running sending a, "See ya," back to Sasuke.
Tsunade smiled as she watched Shizune take the clipboard for the patient in the room she had just vacated. She was glad she had told the man to visit after healing him the day before. It seemed to be the least she could do for the loyal young woman. She had a hard time not laughing in the middle of the lobby as Shizune froze upon reading the patient's name.
"Kakashi," she thought gleefully before her shyness began to take hold.
Entering the room she said, "H-h-hello K-kakashi."
Looking up from his book he said, "Hello Shizune. It's good to see you again. I take it you'll be my doctor for this evaluation."
Not trusting her voice she nodded her head before collecting herself to say, "Please stand still so I can scan." As she scanned his biometrics she asked, "Have you been experiencing any visions or hallucinations?"
"No good ones I'm afraid," he joked but seeing the concern appear on her face quickly added, "I'm joking Shizune."
Admonishing him she said, "Please take this seriously Kakashi. We have no idea what the full extent of this jutsu may have on an individual."
"Sorry"
Accepting the apology, she asked, "How about mood swings?"
"Not since Rin…" he responds before trailing off.
Looking up sadly from the clipboard she said, "I'm sorry. I heard about her."
"Yeah…just another name on the Memorial stone that I've failed," Kakashi said. "I should have been there for her more."
"You were dealing with Obito's death too, Kakashi," Shizune said kindly. "You can't blame yourself for not being able to deal with another's pain as well."
"Thanks Shizune, but it was my responsibility as her teammate," Kakashi said looking away.
Putting a hand to his cheek and forcing him to look her in the eye she asked, "And whose responsibility was it to look out for you?"
"Can we change the subject please?" he asked, again looking away.
"Sure," she replied sadly.
The rest of the exam was conducted in silence. After she cleared him and said there were no lingering effects she watched him leave. Outside the room Tsunade saw as Shizune exited a short time later with her head down as she put the clipboard in its tray before taking a break. Shaking her head she went back to attending her duties while trying to come up with some way of helping the young woman she thought of as a daughter.
As Sakura followed Naruto out of the ramen stand she said lightly, "I'm going to have to stop treating you to ramen as a way of rewarding you. I'm going to end up in the poor house otherwise."
Rubbing the back of his head in embarrassment he said, "Sorry about that Sakura, but when it comes to Ichiraku Ramen I just can't help myself."
Linking her arms in his free one she said, "That's okay, next time I'll just have to set a limit. Now how about we go do some training?"
That was how Hinata found them. Glad she arrived at such a moment she called out, "Naruto."
Hearing Hinata's call a vein popped out on Sakura's forehead. Naruto however always happy to hear from one of his friends began waving to Hinata. A little agitated Sakura asked, "What do you want Hinata?"
"I was looking for Naruto to invite him to a banquet at the Hyuuga mansion tomorrow," Hinata informed the pair.
"A banquet," Naruto asked confused, "Why would they invite me to a banquet?"
"To thank you for saving me from the cloud-nin," Hinata said.
"I don't know Hinata. I don't think that I'll feel comfortable there," Naruto said. Seeing the sad look that crossed her face he tried to explain, "I wouldn't know how to act at a fancy meal after all I practically have been living in the wild for the past six years."
"I think you should do it Naruto," Sakura said surprising the pair but Hinata more so. Elaborating she continued, "If you want to be Hokage you're eventually going to have to deal with such events. Now is as good a time as ever."
Rubbing his bandaged chin Naruto said, "I don't know still."
"You can bring Zabuza and the rest of your team if it'll make you feel better," Hinata said hoping to convince him. Looking at Sakura she said, "You can come to Sakura."
Smiling at the Hyuuga but addressing Naruto, Sakura said, "See Naruto. I'll be there and I've never been to a big clan banquet before either so it'll be a new experience for both of us."
"Okay Hinata, I'll be there. I'll let Zabuza know if he gets back from his mission in time," Naruto said.
Hinata nodded happily before saying, "I'll see you tomorrow night at seven then." Hinata ran off after delivering a kiss to his right cheek having to buy a new kimono for tomorrow before telling her father that Naruto would attend.
After Hinata left Sakura could see that Naruto looked kind of worried still so said, "What's wrong Naruto?"
"I don't have any clothes fit for going to such a fancy event," Naruto said.
Laughing Sakura pulled Naruto along saying, "Come on, I'll go with you. I'll have to buy some new clothes as well." Naruto smiled as he thanked Sakura. Unaware that she figured that this would be a prime opportunity to have Naruto see her in varies ensembles.
Sasuke was training himself in stealth today and the best way he knew how was to try and sneak up on the various chunin and jounin as they practiced by themselves or in pairs. He still couldn't sneak up on a jounin, but most chunin didn't seem to be a problem. Today his targets were Kotetsu Hagane and Izumo Kamizuki. The chunin duo, were taking a break from their training talking about the latest events that happened in the village when Izumo said, "Did you hear the latest? That Itachi infiltrated the village and that Kakashi fought him one on one."
In his hiding spot Sasuke's eyes widened in shock, leaning in to hear as Kotetsu responded saying, "Where did you hear something like that?"
"From Aoba," Izumo said, "You know that for a jounin he has a hard time not blabbing about such things. I was sitting in one of the break rooms with Kurenai and Asuma when he came in screaming about it. Apparently Itachi put Kakashi in a coma before withdrawing. Luckily for Kakashi, Lord Jiraiya along with his new apprentice Naruto Uzumaki brought back Lady Tsunade; otherwise he'd probably still be in it."
Sasuke's hand clenched in fury at realizing that he had been lied to by Kakashi, who had said the reason he had been gone longer than they expected was because of his mission getting more complicated. But there was more to his fury than that; Naruto was being apprenticed to by one of the Sannin. What was it about Naruto that made him so worthy of all the power being heaped upon him? He needed the power more than that Blonde fool. Instead all Kakashi was teaching him was how to work with Sakura and Kiba. Who knew what powerful jutsus he could learn from Jiraiya? It wasn't like Naruto needed anymore power, not like him?
"Does anybody know what Itachi was after?" Kotetsu asked curious.
"Afraid not," Izumo said, "Who knows, maybe he was looking to finish the job he started."
"I don't think so. The way I heard it, Itachi let Sasuke live," Kotetsu replied.
"Of course he did," Sasuke thought, "He needed to leave somebody alive to avenge the clan."
"Well it doesn't matter," Izumo said getting up to leave, "I'll see you at the Records Hall tonight for guard duty."
Sasuke smirked, the Records Hall, if there were any clues as to what Itachi was after it maybe there. It wouldn't be easy to gain access, but in the hidden Uchiha shrine, among the many secrets he had found there, was information on secret ways into many of the key installations of the Leaf. It was obvious the Leaf wouldn't tell him the truth about Itachi so he'd look into it himself.
At just after midnight Sasuke made his move. Entering through a hidden passageway in the central records hall he found the file on Itachi. However, it was heavily censored. It only had basic information on his brother, but nothing he didn't already know. So he decided to look into the defining event of his life The Uchiha Massacre. Again it proved painfully inadequate until he found a report on the aftermath of massacre. It turned out many of his clan's eyes had been stolen from the corpses. Was that how Kakashi gained his Sharingan? Or was it Itachi for some reason? The other bombshell he found out was that his mother's corpse was missing as well.
Wondering what Itachi would want with her corpse he looked up his mother's file. What he found was eye opening to say the least. It turned out that Mikoto Uchiha was a jounin before she settled down to raise a family. She was highly skilled in the use of poisons, but none of that answered why Itachi would want her or even if Itachi was the one to take her. Hearing people approaching he quickly put the files back where he found them figuring the two he had spied on earlier were making their rounds and then left through the hidden passage. As he made his way back to the Uchiha compound Sasuke thought more on what he just learned and what it would me for his future. Whatever his future held, he was sure the Leaf was going to be more of a hindrance to his ambition then a help, seeing as they weren't even trying to prepare him, for his inevitable confrontation with Itachi.
For Naruto the next night came a lot quicker than he wanted. Although, he did have a good time with Sakura, he left with the impression that girls must really like clothes. It had taken him fifteen minutes with Sakura's help to find an outfit that he liked, which consisted of black slacks with an orange turtle neck. Sakura on the other hand had taken considerably longer and had kept coming out of the dressing room asking what he thought. He had kept telling her she looked good, but for some reason she had seemed displeased by his reactions. The whole experience had left him a bit more confused about girls.
Stepping out into the hallway from his apartment he saw the crazy snake lady carrying some unconscious girl over her shoulder into one of the empty apartments. Not wishing for another run in with her he banged on Zabuza's door who told him it was open. He had been surprised when Zabuza having arrived later yesterday night and had agreed to come. When he asked why Zabuza had said it was always a good idea to make friends with powerful people.
Zabuza was dressed similarly as Naruto except the shirt he wore was black and he was wearing his facial wraps. When Naruto, had asked Sakura, if he should wear his, she had said she would prefer it if he didn't. Which wasn't exactly the answer to what he asked, but he figured it was as good an answer as any.
Hearing a knock at the door he did as Zabuza said and answered it. Sai stepped in and much to Naruto's surprise had actually dressed up for the occasion. He was sure that Sai would come dressed in combat gear not realizing the dinner called for different attire. Haku was the last to arrive and gave Naruto a small glare seeing as the Blonde had snuck into his apartment to lay the pink kimono out for him to wear.
Leaving the apartment complex Naruto found Sakura walking towards them with the Shadow Clone that he had sent to escort her. She was dressed in a red kimono with pink cherry blossom petals designs on it. She gave the clone a kiss on the cheek and thanked it for being her escort before it was dispelled and then linked her arm into Naruto's saying, "Thank you, for making sure I arrived safe and sound, Naruto." She then punctuated her sentence with a kiss to his left cheek.
"No problem Sakura," Naruto said giving no sign that he recognized the desire in her eyes, causing Haku and Zabuza to roll their eyes at the clueless Blonde.
"Kami, he can't be that naïve," Zabuza thought. However, he then thought back on how over the years Naruto sometimes not only needed a map drawn for him but to be led by hand thought, "Yeah, he can be. Oh well, if what Haku told me about the Hyuuga girl holds true at least I should be entertained."
Arriving at the Hyuuga compound they were ushered into a large chamber where many of the distinguished members of the clan had gathered talking among themselves. When they were announced Hinata came running up dressed in an orange kimono, which easily stood out from all the bland ones of the other Hyuugas, followed by a stern looking man that Naruto figured was her father.
Hinata made the introductions saying, "Naruto this is my father Hiashi Hyuuga." Then turning to her father said, "Father this is Naruto Uzumaki."
Naruto stuck his hand out saying, "Hey, how's it going."
Laughing at the brash young man and taking the offered hand in a firm handshake Hiashi said, "Quite well thank you. Let me take this opportunity to thank you for the service you provided to my family."
Rubbing his head in his familiar embarrassed gesture Naruto said, "Ah don't mention it, she's one of my precious people and I was glad to do it for her."
"Nevertheless thank you," Turning his attention to Zabuza, Hiashi said, "Thank you as well for watching over one of our own."
"I take cash," Zabuza said seriously.
Laughing lightly at what he assumed was a joke he said, addressing Sakura, "Hello Sakura, it has been some time since you last visited."
"Yes Lord Hyuuga," Sakura said embarrassed, "Thank you for having me."
Nodding to the pink-haired girl he welcomed the rest of Team Zabuza before he introduced them to several of the attending Hyuuga families. There were representatives of both the Main and Branch families present. As Hiashi took Naruto around to introduce him to them, Hinata took Sakura aside and said, "That's a nice kimono Sakura."
"Thanks, Naruto bought it for me," she said spinning.
Hinata was a little panicked by that which Sakura sensed. Not wanting to fill her friend with unnecessary dread she clarified, "Naruto needed to by some new clothes for tonight so I helped him out. When it came time for me to get some, I realized he had eaten all my money in ramen so he offered to buy it for me to pay me back."
Breathing a little easier Hinata said, "Thanks for being honest with me. You could of used that to make me think you were ahead of me in winning his favor and to give up." Deciding to be honest in turn she said, "Naruto and I had a spar the day before."
"I know he told me," then narrowing her eyes, Sakura said, "Did you make a play?"
Shyly she said, "I unzipped my jacket to reveal the halter top I was wearing."
"Let me guess he barely noticed," Sakura said showing Hinata she had tried something along the same lines.
"Try didn't," she replied with a light laugh causing Sakura to join in. Hinata asked, while looking at Naruto who looked like he would rather be anywhere but with her father socializing with Hyuuga nobles, "Is this, what it was like with Sasuke?"
Following Hinata's line of sight Sakura said with a slight smile, "A little. Except with Sasuke he coldly blew you off because he wasn't interested. Not because he is clueless when it comes to girls."
Deciding to rescue Naruto the girls went over to him with Hinata saying, "Father, may I borrow Naruto for a while?"
"Of course," Hiashi said, "Forgive me for monopolizing your time Naruto."
"Sure no problem," Naruto said allowing himself to be led away.
Hinata tried to maneuver them outside but found her path blocked by her sister Hanabi who upon seeing another person wearing orange asked, "Why do you wear the color orange?"
"Umm, because I like it," Naruto answered.
"So you don't think it makes you stronger?" Hanabi asked confused.
"Not really," Naruto said.
"Then why do you wear it sister?" Hanabi asked causing Hinata to blush and point her fingers together.
Taking pity on Hinata, Sakura turned the question back on Hanabi saying, "Why do you wear it now Hanabi?"
"It allowed me to defeat an opponent that considered himself, to be legendary," Hanabi said giving no indication she was lying.
Interested Naruto asked, "Really how?"
Hanabi was about to give a demonstration when Hinata said, "Perhaps now wouldn't be the best time Hanabi."
Further discussion was halted as a servant announced that the meal was ready. Naruto took a seat where he was told, which was next to both Hinata and Sakura seeing as he was at the end of the table. Hiashi was at the head of the large table while Naruto was at the opposite end as the guest of honor. On one side was the Main House families and on the other were the Branch Families. Neji was in attendance sitting across from Sai and Haku.
Hiashi started the meal off with a toast once again thanking Naruto for his saving Hinata. During the meal one of the Hyuuga from the Main family, a middle-aged man named Hideki asked, "I hear you dream of being Hokage is that right?"
"You bet," Naruto said chirpily.
"Do you honestly think you have half a chance coming from some mongrel clan?" Hideki asked arrogantly.
Hiashi stepped in saying, "Hideki what do you think you are doing insulting a guest at my table?"
"Forgive me Lord Hiashi," he said with fake sincerity, "However, your favoring this boy, even if he performed some service for this clan is something I find offensive. He was merely doing his duty."
Zabuza said angrily, "He was six years old at the time."
"Training to be a shinobi," Hideki said evenly, "Therefore it was his duty to give his life for his betters."
Naruto finally said, "I did it because she was my friend. But I have a question for you what did you mean by mongrel clan? I don't have a clan?"
"Priceless," Hideki said amused, "You don't even know that the Uzumaki's were granted a clan status due to their sacrifices during the Third Great Ninja War that saw their village whipped out."
He was about to elaborate more when Sai said, "Are you so arrogantly hostile to help overcome for a small penis?"
"W-w-what did you say?" Hideki asked outraged.
"I read in a book, that people tend to act aggressive towards others as a way to compensate for their own shortcomings," Sai said.
The rest of those in attendance, at least on the Branch side of the family, tried to keep their amusement in check. However the Main family who felt the same as Hideki took offense at the Root member's words.
Hideki said to Hiashi, "Are you going to allow him to insult a member of the Main House like that Hiashi?"
Trying to keep his own amusement in check he said, "Well it seems to me to be an argument that you started Hideki."
Throwing his napkin into his plate Hideki said, "Very well, I have better things to do then be insulted like this. Good Day!"
As he got up to leave Hiashi was worried that a good portion of the Main Families got up with him. After they left Sai said, "Was it something I said?"
The rest of dinner was a relatively quiet affair after it was over the guests began to leave with Team Zabuza plus Sakura being the last to depart. Embarrassed Hinata said, "I'm sorry about earlier Naruto."
"Why are you apologizing?" he asked.
"Because it's my family that…" she tried to begin.
"But it isn't you. Don't worry about it. I know you don't think like them and besides I know my being Hokage is an uphill battle okay," Naruto said trying to cheer Hinata up.
"Okay," she said feeling slightly better.
Hiashi thanked them for coming before escorting them personally off the compound. As they walked Sakura said, "Wow, I didn't know Hinata's family was so hostile to each other."
Haku said, "It is little wonder really. Did you notice how all the Branch Family members cover their foreheads while the Main Family does not?"
Zabuza supplied the answer to Haku's observation, "It's because they were branded with a curse seal."
"Why would they do that?" Naruto asked.
"Control," Zabuza said, "That's how they ensure the obedience of the Branch family."
"But aren't they one family?" Naruto wondered aloud.
"Somewhere along the line they stopped thinking like that but started worrying about maintaining their hold on the Byakugan," Zabuza said. "Basically it's always the same story. Those with power always try to maintain their grasp on it never carrying who they hurt in the process."
"Well when I'm Hokage I'm going to change that," Naruto said determined.
"Good luck with that brat," Zabuza said his voice showing what he thought Naruto's chances of succeeding were.
Sakura though said, "I believe you will Naruto."
Smiling he said as they reached her house, "Thanks Sakura." Giving him her customary kiss on the cheek she ran inside leaving Naruto warm with the feeling that people believed in him.
It started slowly at first. People began falling ill in the village of the Crescent Cliffs, a large village which was located near the border of Tea Country, and resided by a huge gorge in the shape of a moon from where it got its name. At first the doctors thought that the flu season had begun earlier than normal; however that was until those first infected began exhibiting unflu like symptoms. These ranged from extensive bleeding from the eyes and ears which eventually ended with them vomiting up blood as a result of the ulcers that they developed in their digestive track. The doctors of the village were at their wits end as the first patients began to die. Eventually though, a rumor began to circulate that Tsunade Senju of the Sanin had returned to Konoha. A runner was dispatched in the hopes that one of the greatest medical minds in the Five Elemental Countries would be able to stop the plague before it got out of control.
"That is the situation Tsunade," Sarutobi said giving Tsunade time to digest the information.
"I'll leave immediately," Tsunade replied after several seconds. "I would like Shizune to come with me as well."
"Yes, of course. I am also arranging for a Chunin to be assigned to you as protection," Sarutobi informed her.
"I don't think I need a bodyguard," Tsunade said insulted.
"What makes you so sure it's for your protection Tsunade?" Sarutobi asked with a smirk.
"Naruto Uzumaki," the masked Anbu said addressing the four people sparring.
Team Zabuza minus Zabuza, who had been pulled for another mission and had now been away a week after the dinner at the Hyuuga's, had gone out for some morning training. Along the way they had run into Team Kakashi and Sakura had asked to come along getting tired of waiting for her jounin-sensei to show. So they had paired up with Naruto and Sakura versus Sai and Haku. After a few battles Sakura began to feel down since they hadn't won a single match, but Naruto perked her spirits up by saying they were improving and that was all that mattered.
They had just finished their latest battle when the Anbu showed up. Turning to the man while raising his hand Naruto said, "I'm Naruto."
"You are to head to the Hokage's office for a mission immediately," the Anbu informed him.
"Got it," The Anbu left then but not before delivering a small nod of respect to Haku. Smiling to the others Naruto said, "Well guys see you later. It appears I'm about to get my first super-cool mission as a chunin."
"Babysitting," Naruto exclaimed after hearing the Hokage's mission details. "Come on Old Man, surely you have a better mission for me than watching over some fifty-year old woman as she cures a disease."
Sarutobi tried not to laugh at Tsunade, who was sitting off to the side and trying not to give into the temptation of pounding Naruto into the ground. Instead he said, "Naruto this is a vital mission. Tsunade will need her full attention on combating this epidemic. You are to watch out for her in case someone tries to take advantage of the catastrophe."
"Who would try and do something like that?"
It was Tsunade that answered Naruto's question as she said, "Generally bandits or other such scum who depending on the nature of this disease could end up spreading it beyond the village."
"Okay you can count on me Old Man," Naruto said giving Sarutobi a thumbs up.
Standing up Tsunade said, "Meet me at the main gate in twenty minutes. You think you can handle that brat."
"Sure thing Granny Tsunade," Naruto said making his way for the door.
"What did you just call me you brat?" Tsunade said a vein beginning to stick out of her forehead.
"What's the matter Granny? Is your hearing going?" Naruto said cheekily as he ran out the door a furious Sannin in pursuit.
Left alone in his office Sarutobi smiled as his reasons for pairing Naruto and Tsunade were two-fold. First he hoped that with a Sannin present Akatsuki would think twice about moving against Naruto. Second, although Tsunade had agreed to stay he knew that she was still uneasy about her choice and that the embers of her Will of Fire were still on the verge of being snuffed out. He believed that Naruto would be just the thing she needed to have them stoked into the blazing inferno that her passion for the village used to be.
Kabuto was just going over a message from Tsukino that confirmed the final piece to his plan for securing Tsunade's services. Creating the poison that was currently circulating through Crescent Cliffs Village had been easy. So too had his planting the rumors about Tsunade's return. Now came the more difficult part of the plan seeing as Orochimaru wouldn't be joining him. No matter how confident he was in his master's ability to read his ex-teammate he didn't want to go toe to toe with a Sannin if he could help it. Well at least not alone.
Hearing a knock at his door he told the person to enter and in stepped the three chunin he had asked for. They were all roughly the same age around fourteen and two of them were males. One of the males and if there was a leader of the group this young man was it said in a mechanical voice from the collar he wore around his neck, "You sent for us Kabuto."
"Yes I did, Takeo," he said while taking in the younger man's appearance. He was dressed in the usual Sound gear except he didn't wear a mask and his head was clean shaven. His left eye was a discolored white from an injury he had suffered in battle, the same one where his throat had been ruined resulting in his need for the collar. However that was also the source of his new power seeing as there were wires running from the collar down his arms to the amplification pads he wore on his hands. By speaking certain words at a certain frequency he could cause explosions or even liquefy internal organs. "You three will be accompanying me to collect Tsunade of the Sannin for Lord Orochimaru."
"Don't you think that is a little ambitious Kabuto?" the female of the group asked. Well only people that knew her would realize she was female despite the fact that she was dressed in a grey battle dress. She was quite homely, with short brown hair and brown eyes, often causing others to mistake her as male. She also lacked the curves that would help people differentiate her from the male persuasion. She used strings in battle which once she wrapped them around a victim she would charge them with her lightning chakra electrocuting her victims.
"Not at all Mi," Kabuto then turned his attention to the last of the three saying, "Nothing to add Hibiki."
"I can't wait. It'll finally give me an opportunity to test out this eye Lord Orochimaru gave me."
"Don't get your hopes up to much," Kabuto warned, "If everything goes according to plan we won't need to lift a finger."
"Where's the fun in thinking like that," Hibiki said showing that of the three he was the most hot-headed. Unlike Takeo he wore a patch over his right eye which hid the results of Orochimaru's experimentation into unlocking the secrets of the Sharingan. Hoping to do with science what he hadn't been able to do by taking over Itachi's body. Unfortunately, the experiments hadn't born any real fruit however the eye Hibiki wielded was one of the more successful failures. Other than his eye, he was an unremarkable shinobi getting by on guts and raw power as shown by the scars on his exposed chest and back seeing as he never wore a shirt to go along with his standard Sound pants. Running a hand through his long red hair he asked, "When do we leave?"
"As soon as I see to the transfer of Kimimaro to our hidden base in the Land of Tea," Kabuto answered pushing his glasses up his nose.
After the three left he looked at the message he had been reading before the Sound Chunin arrived he read the most important part of the communication from Tsukino one last time, "Found the man you seek. He will arrive after Sannin with his apprentice in tow."
Resting and only a day away from the village of the Crescent Cliffs, Naruto was practicing the second stage of his Rasengan training. Tsunade watched as he deflated another ball by making a small hole appear. During the day of travel Tsunade found Naruto to be more and more like her late brother. So much so, that at times she could almost see Nawaki overlapping the Blonde boy. Which was probably why she had been so adversarial with him during the trip, constantly belittling him, due to her not wanting to see him dream big and die as a result?
Letting him know her thoughts Tsunade said, "You should give up on that brat. You'll be at it for years at this rate."
"Future Hokage's never give up just because something is hard," Naruto shot back tired of the Tsunade's constant put downs.
"Hokage, Hokage is that all you think about. Only a fool would want that job," Tsunade responded rubbing the bridge of her nose before sending a glare Naruto's way.
Trying to change the subject Shizune nervously said, "Dinner's almost ready, who's hungry?"
However the two glaring Blondes ignored her as Naruto getting angrier said, "Better a fool with a dream then a Granny that gave all hers up."
"Do you want me to pound on you some more is that it you little brat?" Tsunade said while standing to fulfill her threat.
"Bring it on Grandma, but I'll have this jutsu down by the time we finish this mission," Naruto said which caused Tsunade to stop due to the defiant look in his eye that reminded her of her brother.
Fighting back tears she asked, "Why are you so determined to be Hokage?"
"Because, I'm going to protect all my precious people and the village," Naruto said standing his ground.
"Fine then," Tsunade said as she held up her necklace, "How about a wager? If you master that jutsu I'll admit I was wrong and you are worthy of becoming Hokage. I'll even through in this necklace as a prize."
Shizune shocked exclaimed, "Lady Tsunade you can't…"
Cautiously Naruto asked, "And if I don't?"
"Then you give up on your fools quest to be Hokage," she said smirking.
"Fine you have a bet Grandma," Naruto replied.
"Remember real men stick to their words."
"I said it and I never go back on my word," Naruto said causing Tsunade's eyes to widen having heard similar words a long time ago. Resulting in Tsunade once more seeing the ghost of her brother overlaid on top of Naruto.
Kin was sore as she walked through Konoha glad that her sensei had been assigned a mission that took her out of the village. Despite the first training session which had left her worn out to the point that Anko had carried her to her new apartment she had really come to appreciate the bond between them. In the Sound village all the recruits were trained in cells as one big group as a result she never received the one on one teaching that she had been privy to for the past week. She liked it, she liked it a lot.
She was still dressed in her usual attire of a green vest with baggy camouflage pants but wore the Leaf headband on her head. She had been informed that due to her coming from a recognized shinobi village even one that they were currently enemies with she wouldn't have to go through the same process as sponsored-nin. She noticed that some of the villagers were looking at her coldly which she couldn't really blame them for and at least it wasn't outright hostility as she would have expected.
Thinking about changing her look to help easy some of the looks she put it on the backburner allowing her thoughts to turn to Dosu and what he was up to. She supposed she shouldn't have been surprise he didn't stay it wasn't like they had been a super close nit group having just been thrown together like all the other genin teams. However unlike here in Konoha, those in Sound always saw their fellow genin as competition for advancement. That didn't mean you wouldn't like them. But more often than not, should a scenario arise where a teammate was taken hostage, that person could count on the fact their teammates would just blast them along with the enemy. Dosu had been more honorable then most of her fellow genin and at times she genuinely felt that he cared for his teammates on some level. Which she felt was why he didn't stay feeling as if by trusting Orochimaru he had let them down. Therefore, he felt a desire to stand on his own for awhile. Not needing to rely on anyone and not having anyone rely on him.
Kin was different and was basking in the warmth that having a sensei that cared for her provided to her. That was why she found herself at the local dumpling shop. She had quickly realized that if Anko was her sensei she would be developing a taste for the treats seeing as it seemed to be all she ever ate. Eating here made Kin feel closer to her sensei while she was gone.
Receiving her dumplings she took a spot on one of the benches before feeling somebody looking at her. Turning towards the source of the feeling she saw the cute boy who had stared at her similarly in the Grass base she had been stationed at. Blushing she looked away before she asked herself, "What the hell is he doing here?"
Getting up she stormed over saying, "Who the hell are you and what do you want with me?"
In a voice she found familiar but couldn't place the boy said, "My name is Haku. I'm afraid I don't understand your question as I was here before you arrived."
"Then what were you doing at the Grass base?" she asked confused.
"Orochimaru tried to recruit me and my team into his service," Haku stated, "we refused and ran to the Leaf for protection. It was why my team attacked yours during the Chunin Exams."
With that bit of information Kin said shocked, "You re that boy in the mask the one who used the Ice Jutsus to defeat me."
"Yes," Haku said wondering if she would be angry.
"Thank you," Kin said sincerely.
"Beg your pardon"
Smiling she said, "If it wasn't for your defeating us we never would have learned what a scumbag Orochimaru is." Kin then went into the details about what happened after her teams defeat in the Forest of Death.
Surprised but pleased things had worked out for her Haku said, "I'm glad you have discovered the joy of a master-student bond."
Smiling while thinking of Anko she said, "Yeah she's kind of out there but she really does care about me."
Sharing the smile with her, Haku said while thinking of Zabuza, "I know what you me. Zabuza likes to play that he doesn't care sometimes but it's obvious he does since he even put his own dreams aside for our safety."
Finishing the last of her dumplings Kin asked, "Would you like to go spar or something. I would hate to think what Anko would do to me if she thought I was slacking while she was away."
"I would like that," Haku said a little eagerly, ""Perhaps we can meet in the training grounds in half an hour. I have to grab my equipment first."
"Okay," Kin said nodding happily, "I do to."
Both began walking back to their residences only to find that they were heading to the same place causing Haku to ask, "How long have you been staying here? Why haven't I seen you around?"
"I don't really get to stay here very often as Anko has me practically living in Training Ground 44," Kin said giving a little shudder as she remembered some of her experiences in the forest.
"Ah," Haku said as he opened his apartment door realizing Kin had the one across from him. Just before entering his own apartment Kin looked over her shoulder with a coy smile thinking maybe she had made the right decision in staying after all.
Arriving in the Crescent Cliffs Village the three Leaf shinobi made their way to the hospital. They met the head doctor outside of the building. The doctor was a small meek balding man in glasses by the name of Joben. Shaking Tsunade's hand nervously he said, "It is a great honor to be in your presence Lady Tsunade."
"Thank you, but we don't have time for such pleasantries," Tsunade said walking past the doctor before turning to Naruto who was still working on his Rasengan training saying, "Brat, you wait out here."
"Sure thing Granny," Naruto said causing the familiar vein to appear on her forehead. However she had meant what she said about getting started so ignored the Blonde's affectionate name for her. Left to his own devices Naruto began concentrating on the ball in his hand a little desperate since he had shot his mouth off about having this jutsu down even with a whole other step to go. Pouring all the chakra he could into it the ball final gave way in a small explosion that blew him back.
As Tsunade and the others came running out to see what the commotion was about they found an old man dressed in a colorful vest attending to the boy with an attendant wearing a beige vest and matching bandanna helping him. Afraid the pair had attacked Naruto she called out, "Get the hell away from him," while charging Shizune right at her heels. The man quickly turned pulling a machete and collected his charge jumping away from the charging Sannin.
Facing off with the man she said, "What did you do to him?"
However it was his assistant who defiantly responded, "We didn't do anything. He was holding a ball when it exploded with chakra and we attempted to treat the chakra burns on his hand."
Weakly Naruto verified the story saying, "I-it's…true Granny Tsunade." Holding up the remains of the ball he said proudly, "I…did… it," before passing out.
Amazed Tsunade ordered Shizune, "Take the little fool into the hospital and treat his hands."
"Yes Lady Tsunade"
Turning back to the pair she asked, "So who the hell are you then?"
Smiling kindly the man said, "I'm Shinno," then putting a hand on his apprentice with affection showing in his eyes said, "This is my apprentice Amaru."
"Why are you here?" Tsunade asked still suspicious of the man.
"We are wandering medics," Shinno said, "Word of this disease has reached my ears and I was hoping I could be of assistance."
"Thanks, but I believe I can handle it," Tsunade said.
Causing Amaru to say scoff saying, "If you're with that shinobi then what good can you do. All shinobi are good for is killing."
Placing a calming hand on Amaru's shoulder her master said, "Please forgive her she can be a bit impulsive. Please allow us to help surely with this pandemic you can use all the help you can get."
Knowing he was right Tsunade said, "Come with me." Entering the hospital she asked which room Shizune went to. Taking the pair there she found Shizune just about to start healing Naruto when Tsunade stopped her saying, "Shizune change of plans," pointing to Amaru she said, "You do it."
She looked to her master who nodded encouraging her as he said, "You will do fine Amaru."
Amaru set to work wanting to justify her master's faith in her. First cleaning his burns before applying a salve to them and then wrapped his hand in bandages. Satisfied that the girl at least knew what she was doing she asked, "Don't you know how to use chakra to heal such things?"
Shinno answered her question saying, "We aren't shinobi."
"Yet you obviously have seen battle before from those moves you showed outside," Tsunade said again suspicious.
"In another life I was a warrior true," Shinno replied sadly, "However, I far prefer saving lives to taking them."
"Have you ever dealt with anything like this before?" Tsunade asked.
"Master Shinno saved me when nobody else would," Amaru said with such passion that Tsunade knew the girl was telling the truth, "That's why I want to be a great medic just like him."
Reluctantly Tsunade said, "I suppose we can use all the help we can get. Follow me." She then led them to the office where the all the information thus far uncovered by the doctors of the village was located. They then began searching through all the papers leaving a smiling Naruto alone in the hospital bed having completed the second stage of his training.
It was official. Ibiki was now dealing with an abduction case as he looked over the new results of the D.N.A testing on the corpse they had thought was Kushina. He wasn't worried about his new results getting out as he had the test performed by people in his own department who were versed in such matters. No whoever had done this would continue to believe he thought that the corpse he had was Kushina Uzumaki. Rubbing his eyes in his small office he began to run through likely suspects. Evidence wise at least the top suspect was Orochimaru, of course, seeing as it happened during his invasion. However like he had said in the Hokage's office it felt wrong to him. But then there were the angles to consider. He wasn't surprised the Hokage or Jiraiya thought it was a means of hurting them considering their personal history with the Snake Sannin. He considered it more likely that the woman was going to be used as a means of controlling her son and taking into account that Orochimaru had expressed an interest in using Naruto he couldn't just be crossed of his list of suspects on that account.
Next was the Akatsuki group that the Hokage told him about and Kakashi waking from his coma had been able to confirm they were indeed looking for Naruto. But, for what purpose, he couldn't say. Unfortunately, the lack of knowledge on the group meant that they could have taken the woman for any number of purposes. Also, due to Itachi's former position as an Anbu captain it may have been possible he knew of the Hokage's safe house. So it wasn't too farfetched that they could have been behind it due to the fact they had no idea how long Itachi and his partner had been in the village prior to Kakashi's confronting them. He could only hope the lack of information problem he faced would be solved before they became too much of a threat.
Finally there was Ibiki's favorite suspect Danzou. It just felt right to him that Danzou was behind Kushina's kidnapping. But what would be the old warhawk's endgame? If the 3rd Hokage was right and Naruto wouldn't betray him or the village even for the sake of his mother, than what did Danzou hope to gain by taking her? It was a question he had yet to answer.
Sometimes Ibiki hated this job seeing as he felt that at times he was playing against opponents that had a stacked deck in their favor. For instance, unlike the first two suspects on his list he couldn't just get his hands on Danzou and twist his mind until he spilled all his inner most secrets. No, he couldn't even touch the bastard until he had concrete proof that he was responsible and if even a hint of a rumor reached Danzou's ears that Ibiki suspected him of this crime he had little doubt that whatever evidence was there to be found would disappear.
Reaching into his desk to pullout a bottle of the hard liquor he kept in it for moments like these he poured himself a glass. It would take time. Maybe even years, but he would find away to bring the elder to justice if… no when, he found the evidence to prove his case. Thinking on the subject he made a mental note to get with Shibi Aburame to find out how his research into the Kikaichu Beetles with the strong sense of smell for more than just the female of the species was coming.
"Hold on Kushina," he thought downing the rest of the contents of his glass, "we'll find you." He didn't doubt that. But, whether or not they would find her before whoever had her, used her for their own ends he couldn't say.