An: Thank you for reviewing as always. Sincerely S. o. t. A.

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

Chapter 38: Uncovering Legacies

The three Konoha shinobi were traveling at top speed through the trees of the valley. They were keeping their senses sharp for any sign of the shinobi in pursuit of them. As they ran Kiba said, "Man this bug hunt is turning out to be a whole lot more exciting than I thought it would be. Who knew this insect was so valuable."

Shino replied, "I do not believe it is the insect per say, but much like us a desire to find something they seek."

Byakugan active Hinata asked, "Does anyone know who they are?"

"I do not know about the three new arrivals that attacked you Hinata," Shino said after a moment of thought, "However I believe the three that had been watching us were the Kamizuru clan. They are a fellow insect using clan from Iwagakure."

"Any idea why they need the beetle?" Kiba asked.

Despite having a pretty good one Shino said, "No." He waited a moment before suggesting, "Perhaps we should hand over our beetle."

"Hell no," Kiba said looking at Shino in surprise that he would even suggest such a thing. A look that was mirrored on Hinata's face, but she continued to keep her focus on her surroundings.

Shino however persisted, saying, "There should be more Bikouchuu to be had. Therefore, instead of fighting we should perhaps instead hand it over to concentrate on finding another."

"No way buddy," Kiba said, "I got lucky finding this one. Besides if those Kamizuru thought that was an option they would be doing that instead of attempting to kill us for it."

"I agree Shino," Hinata said, "Besides since they snuck into Fire Country. There's no guarantee the Kamizuru won't persist in their attack just to keep us quiet."

Shino finally nodded conceding the point so said, "Hinata, were the other three working with the Kamizuru."

Hinata thought for a moment before saying, "I can't be sure. Although I don't think the one I fought was surprised by their arrival."

"Then we should operate under the assumption that they are indeed working together," Shino said to which his teammates agreed.

Further strategizing became impossible as Hinata yelled, "Move."

The genin were forced to scatter as Suzumebachi flew over head on her personally summons Joobachi. As the pair flew by the summons opened its mandibles to let fly several streams of sticky honey that missed the dodging genin and one puppy. To retaliate as the summons hovered above, all three genin let fly several kunai. The summons simply generated a large gust of wind with its wings that blew the airborne weapons off course.

Suzumebachi laughed at the pitiful attempt to strike her. Tossing Shino the bug container, Kiba shouted, "Hold this." Akamaru jumped onto his partner's head. Kiba then performed Human Mimicry on the puppy transforming him into a copy of Kiba, followed by the Beast Mimicry on himself. The pair then waited for the Giant Bee to make another pass overhead. Akamaru lured it in presenting a tempting target for the Bee to entrap. As it swooped in to try to hit the puppy with its honey Kiba attacked from directly below using Fang over Fang catching the Bee in the midsection knocking it into the forest away from the three genin.

Landing on the branch next to his partner Kiba said, "Way to lure that pest in Akamaru."

"Yes very nicely done," Jibachi said from above raising his arms to allow his bees to swarm at the two. The two jumped back towards their compatriots though, heading through a cloud of Shino's Kikaichu which met the bees in midair. The beetles once again proved superior, but instead of ripping the bees apart and releasing the honey that would entrap them, targeted the bees' wings. Jibachi was beginning to back up in fright as the beetles began to move on towards him. Luckily for him, Shura stepped forward umbrella pointed at the incoming insects and unleashed a stream of fire from the end that caught some of the swarm causing Shino to call them back.

Placing the umbrella on his back Shura said, "Why don't you kids make the smart play here and hand over the beetle."

"Not going to happen, pal," Kiba shouted with a still henged Akamaru growling his agreement.

"You are not members of the Kamizuru." Shino stated stepping towards the man. "What do you want with the Bikouchuu?"

"Simple, according to our new partner here," the man said indicating Jibachi, "The First Tsuchikage hid a couple of pretty valuable scrolls. That little bug is going to lead us right to them."

"Unlikely," Shino said causing the man's grin to falter, "The idea that a scent could last for such a long time is absurd, no matter how well preserved you keep the relic you would have exposed the beetle too."

"Jibachi you better not be fucking with us," Shura said darkly, "The Shinobazu are not known for forgiveness."

"Don't listen to him," Jibachi said slightly afraid of the man's wrath, "My grandfather created a seal that would unleash a stored scent whenever it was activated no matter how much time has passed. The scrolls bear this seal."

"Still you would need a scent for the beetle to latch onto," Shino pointed out.

"Shut your mouth Aburame," Jibachi shouted, "My sister found a seal among his possessions that was left by our grandfather to do just that."

"Where is it?" Shura asked the Kamizuru.

"She still has it."

"You mean it's on that bitch that just crashed into the forest," Shura said agitated, "Go after it, otherwise this whole thing is an exercise in futility." Jibachi jumped away to do exactly that.

Shino watched him leave while trying to decide on the best plan of action. Even if he could convince Hinata and Kiba to hand over the beetle it would only delay a fight between them seeing as he was in all likely hood carrying the very scrolls they sought. Furthermore, due to the recent revelations, he began to call into question just how close the two clans had been. As now he began to wonder if the seal he had used to locate the Bikouchuu Cave had been planted by an Aburame after all.

He was so lost in thought that he didn't notice the metal wires that were surrounding him and Kiba just waiting to be pulled taunt and cut the two of them to pieces. Fortunately for both boys Hinata did and used her Protective Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms technique to save the two of them. She felt a measure of pride swell within her heart as the jutsu she worked so hard on saved her two friends by cutting the wires.

Monju looked on in shock as his wires were destroyed by the young Hyuuga. "She cut my wires with her chakra, impossible," he thought getting a bad feeling at facing such an opponent.

Hinata watched all three Shinobazu warily. Calmly she said to her fellow Leaf Shinobi, "Shino, take Kiba with you to go after that Kamizuru. I'll deal with these three."

Kiba however said, "Forget that we aren't abandoning you…"

However Shino place a hand on Kiba's shoulder causing him to trail off. The Aburame then said addressing Hinata, "Are you sure?"

Not taking her focus away from the three opponents she faced she nodded and said, "I recognize the name of the group these men claim to be. They are killers and thieves. Whatever this scroll they are after is. We cannot allow it to fall into their hands. That blonde Kamizuru seems to be aligned with them."

Shino inclined his head at Hinata's point however Kiba wanted to argue. Serenely Hinata said, "Do not fret Kiba. I'll be fine."

"Let's go Kiba," Shino said giving Kiba a little nudged to get him moving.

As they traveled away from Hinata, the Inuzuka said, "I don't like this. We shouldn't leave her behind to face all three of them."

Shino looked at Kiba before turning to face forward, "Don't underestimate Hinata. She is far stronger than her gentle nature sometimes makes her appear."

"Still…"

"Kiba," Shino said stopping him, "Hinata is strong."

A grin split Kiba's face as he said, "Yeah…" Both boys settled into silence as there didn't seem to be anything else that needed to be said.

Suzumebachi opened her eyes feeling as if a drum was pounding inside her head. Unsteadily she got back up to her feet wondering where in the world she was for a moment. However, her memories swiftly returned upon seeing her wounded summons lying nearby. Moving as swiftly as the swaying earth would allow hear she moved towards it to inspect its injuries. She could she Joobachi already was tending to them by using her honey to bind her wounds.

Walking up to the summons she was about to tell her to dispel and tend to her injuries when she heard a weak voice say, "Suzumebachi…"

Turning she saw her older brother Kurobachi standing there staggering towards her. His purple cloak was even darker from all the blood staining it. Running over to her brother he collapsed into her arms. He gripped her arms tightly with an incredible strength saying weakly, "Jibachi…"

"Who did this?"

"Jibachi…" he said again trailing off.

Suzumebachi thought that Kurobachi was warning her that their younger brother was in danger, not realizing he was trying to warn her about him. Still a little dazed her anger spiked as she began saying, "It was those damn Konoha-nin wasn't it?" However she didn't receive an answer as he had lost consciousness.

She could hear Joobachi spitting up more honey before rolling it into a ball and pushing it over towards her. Looking up at the summons she thanked it before applying it to Kurobachi's wound hoping the healing enzymes would be enough until they reached a hospital. She asked her summons to watch after her brother before taking off to kill the Konoha shinobi but especially the Aburame.

Her pace was slow going at first, but as her anger grew and more adrenaline was pumped into her veins picked up considerable. She could hear sounds of battle to her left, so changed her trajectory to head towards it. Bursting through the leaf canopy she saw Jibachi fighting the two Konoha shinobi. She jumped from the tree she was in angling for the Aburame as she descended to the forest floor. As she flew towards the Aburame she pulled out her beautiful Kris knife that most Kamizuru had favored in battle. The one she used was part of an intricate three piece set with a handle made of carved ivory. Each of the Kamizuru siblings had one.

Although she could tell the Aburame had been surprised by her sudden appearance he pulled a kunai that had been hidden in the sleeve of his coat. As the wavy blade of her Kris clashed with his kunai it threw up sparks. The kunai caught the guard of her weapon so the two pushed against each other fighting for position. Leaning in she said her voice radiating the fury she felt, "I'm going to enjoy killing you for what you've done to my brother."

Jibachi although just as surprised by his sister's arrival said, "Suzumebachi, thanks. Together we can make quick work of these two. We'll avenge Kurobachi's death."

Forced to jump away from Shino as his beetle began to swarm from the sleeve of his jacket holding the kunai she said, "He's isn't dead thankfully."

Had she been paying attention, she may have noticed Jibachi's eyes widening slightly at the news. However, he calmed realizing if she knew he had been the one to attack Kurobachi she wouldn't be standing in front of him with her back turned.

Although Suzumebachi didn't notice, Shino did. Commenting he said, "We had no part in any misfortune that may have befallen your brother. Perhaps you should ask your other sibling's associates."

"As if I'd believe…" Suzumebachi's retort was cut short as she sensed a threat behind her. Acting on instinct she blocked the incoming attack only to see she had parried one of her blade's counterparts. Her surprise showed on her face before it hardened into a fierce gaze as she realized Kurobachi had been attempting to warn her of their younger brother's treachery. "Jibachi, why are you doing this? What of our dream to resurrect the Kamizuru?"

"That is your dream sister," Jibachi said, "The only interest I had in seeing the Kamizuru restored was for the money and power it would have generated. But why bring back a dead clan for me to have to obey that midget of a Tsuchikage, when I can just take the money and live the pampered life I always wanted?"

Kiba looked like he was about to jump in still itching for a good fight, but stopped as Shino placed a restraining hand on his shoulder. Growling a little, he began to back up with his friend to return to Hinata.

Suzumebachi still facing her brother but with an eye on the Konoha shinobi said, "You two aren't going anywhere. I need that beetle."

"Further attacking us would not be in your best interest. Seeing as you cannot trust your brother, we have the advantage," Shino said calmly.

"He's right," Jibachi said, "Let's put our differences aside for the moment Suzumebachi. We both need that beetle. We can try and kill each other later."

Weighing her options Suzumebachi finally said, "Fine…but when this is over you're dead Jibachi."

"My sentiments exactly," Jibachi said turning towards the Konoha shinobi.

"Thanks buddy," Kiba said almost joyfully, "I was afraid you were going to talk us out of fighting these two."

"That was my intention," Shino replied.

"Enough talk," Suzumebachi said charging Shino who raised his arms allowing to allow his Kikaichu beetles to swarm from his sleeves. The beetles flew to meet the charging woman to drain her of chakra. However it turned out to be a honey clone so once the little chakra it contained was consumed lost cohesion and trapped the beetles to it. The beetles began chewing their way free but Suzumebachi used the precious few moment to land a solid hit to Shino's chest with a kick that knocked him out of sight into the brush.

Jibachi attempted to follow not wanting to let his sister get out of sight while she fought the shinobi with the Bikouchuu, but found his path blocked by Kiba. "Get out of the way," Jibachi shouted brandishing his blade.

"No way in hell pal," Kiba said before addressing Akamaru, "Let's shake off the rust buddy, how about it?" Receiving a bark in reply Kiba grinned at the Iwa-nin, "Alright, let's get to it." As soon as the words left his mouth he was running towards his opponent who responded by raising the arm not holding his kris. Bees with paper bombs appeared from it targeting the young Inuzuka. Kiba stopped and jumped away when one of the closer ones exploded.

Avoiding several more he noticed that most of the swarm kept its distance only allowing one or two to move towards him at any one time. Grinning, a wolfish smile he pulled a kunai with a paper tag attached and threw it into the mist of most of the bees. As expected his tag set off all the other ones. Jibachi was blown off his feet having been a little too close during the explosion.

Shaking his head as he regained his footing, he found he was all alone. A bush to his side rustled a bit so attacking on instinct threw the kris in his hand. He was rewarded with a small yelp. Smiling that he had hit the Inuzuka puppy he went to retrieve his weapon. Finding it imbedded in the white dog he began to pull it free saying, "What no outcry of pain. I thought you Inuzuka bastards loved your dogs more than anything."

Keeping an eye out for the Inuzuka he missed the puppy getting bigger and more bloated until the last second when it exploded covering the area with kunai. Peppered with kunai, Jibachi saw Kiba step out of the bushes with his puppy on his head with a self satisfied smile on his face. However, a smile appeared on Jibachi's face as he dissolved into honey. Kiba and Akamaru rolled to the side as a bee blew up right where they had been standing.

Looking up to the tree Jibachi was standing in Kiba said, "Hpmh, that's a relief. After being laid up for a month I was afraid you were just a chump."

"Don't worry. I think you'll find you've bitten off more than you can chew," Jibachi said preparing more bees to attack.

"Alright Akamaru, let's show this punk what the Inuzuka are made of."

Hinata faced her three opponents calmly. As she studied them she could see that the leader and the squat one with the device on his arm were confident that they could easily beat her. The third one in purple seemed a little more wary probably due to her cutting his wires earlier. The leader stepped forward but she remained stationary.

Running an appraising eye over the kunoichi's body he said, "Why don't we go somewhere a little more private? I can treat you real good."

Hinata refused to be baited remaining focused and watching her opponents every move for the slightest hint they were about the attack. Shura however said darkly, "The silent type huh? Bitches like you are my favorite. They always scream the loudest."

He took another step forward, but she still held her ground thinking, "You can do this Hinata. He's trying to distract you so one of the others can attack. But which one will it be?"

She received her answer when he moved forward once again for a moment blocking Toki. As soon as he thought he was out of sight he used an earth jutsu to disappear into the ground. He tunneled quickly to her position but she was ready, leaping straight up as he emerged from the ground. Surprised that he hadn't hit her, he was unprepared when Hinata grabbed his shoulders from above and for a moment did a handstand on them. Allowing her body to fall towards a charging Shura she pulled Toki with her throwing him at the leader of the Shinobazu as she landed on her feet. Shura coldly battered the man to the side continuing on his course towards Hinata. Bring his umbrella up he opened it to obscure his movements behind it as he drew the hidden blade inside the handle.

Hinata let a smile appear on her face as she thought, "Ninja Dropouts indeed," since even most genin would realize merely opening an umbrella wouldn't hide his motions from her eyes. He moved the open portion of the umbrella behind him as he attempted to stab her. However she nimbly side stepped the blade, striking several points on the arm holding it. The blade fell from his numb grip and he was sent flying backwards by a strike to the chest.

Monju attempted to ensnare Hinata in his wires but she danced through the spaces in between before he could grab her with them. Making her way towards the wire user who was backing up she attempted to strike him. Only for her attack to be repulsed by the wire dome he surrounded himself with. A smirk appeared on his face until Hinata changed tactics pulling back with a small spin she pulled her hand back before thrusting it forward using the Eight Trigrams Empty Palm Technique that her father had been teaching her and Neji. Monju's smirk vanished as the vacuum shell the technique generated smashed into him violently throwing him against his own dome hard enough to leave gashes on his back.

She heard something click behind her and spun taking a deep breath. After completing her spin, she breathed out a stream of fire to meet the one coming from Shura's umbrella. Her jutsu quickly proved more powerful as it began growing stronger and hotter consuming his flames to add to its own strength as it travelled towards him. He was forced to use a substitution jutsu as otherwise the flames would have devoured him.

Toki attempted to use the moment Hinata spent looking into the flames searching for Shura to attack. He almost couldn't believe his luck that the Hyuuga hadn't reacted as he reared back his drilling arm planning to finish her in one hit. However, if he did have luck, it was all bad, as Hinata at the last moment stepped out of the path of his punch and then switching to her Hard Fist Stance struck the large weapon on his arm channeling her chakra into the blow. Although, not capable of Tsunade or Sakura's control, and therefore not capable of the massive destruction of the two women, found that she could use the technique somewhat. As Toki flew away his drilling weapon smashed to pieces she found that it had been well worth using it, despite the slightly numb feeling in her hand.

"You're dead you little whore," Shura shouted throwing his umbrella into the air, "Let's see you dodge this."

The umbrella began spinning in the air unleashing all the hidden senbon as they pelted the earth they threw up a large dust cloud. Hinata merely began spinning in response as the senbon rained down upon her. As the dust settled the three Shinobazu who had taken up positions around the girl were amazed to see she was unharmed and all the senbon scattered around her in a circle.

"Who the hell is this," Monju said unbelieving of his own eyes.

Hinata created a cross-like hand sign using the jutsu she had seen Naruto use numerous times. As two more copies of her appeared and assumed a similar stance as her she said, "My name is Hinata Hyuuga and you are within the realm of my jutsu. Eight Trigram: One-hundred Ninety-Two Palm." Each Hinata shot forward targeting one of the Shinobazu, with the real Hinata targeting Shura, as they reached their targets they each hit them with sixty-four consecutive strikes. Her opponents all collapsed as their chakra was shut down by her attacks.

Binding the unconscious Shura as her two clones did the same to his associates Hinata was pleased to see just how strong she had become. Although these three had been miles away from an S-class criminal, she was confident that when Naruto returned. She would be able to stand beside him instead of behind him as he faced his enemies. However, she didn't have time to pat herself on the back as her fellow shinobi were still probably facing dangerous opponents. Confident the three she captured wouldn't be escaping anytime soon she began searching for her friends.

Shino had allowed the kick to connect that had sent him into the brush. He had wanted to get away from Kiba to talk to Suzumebachi alone. Sadly, talking was the last thing she had in mind.

"Stop running you coward," she shouted as Shino continued to run while avoiding the bees she would occasionally send his way. He was forced to stop as he ran into the river that flowed through the valley.

Suzumebachi smiled as she dropped down behind him pulling her kris once more saying, "Looks like you have no place left to run."

"If my objective was to get away from you, your ascertation would be correct," Shino said causing her to immediately go on guard keeping an eye out for surprises.

She received one, just not the one she was expecting as Shino tossed her the case with the beetle in it. Looking at him in surprise she asked, "Why?"

"I'm afraid I cannot go into my reasons. However, that beetle was not part of my mission."

"I don't understand," she said confused.

"Your understanding is not necessary, only your acceptance of the beetle," Shino stated.

Suzumebachi said, "Aren't you obligated to try and capture me for crossing into Konoha territory?"

"Normally yes," Shino said, "However I believe we are standing on neutral territory due to the fact this valley was created by several clans that shared a passion for Insect based ninjutsu."

"What are you talking about?"

Reaching into his jacked he procured the two scrolls with the Kamizuru seal on them. Suzumebachi immediately believed them to be the ones she was hoping the beetle could find. Stating this she said, "My grandfather's scrolls? How is it possible that you have them?"

"I found them in this valley in a spot known only to the Aburame," Shino said. "That I found them there and the means by which I was able to locate the area was due to a seal similar to the one your brother described means that our two clans were at one time allies."

"A pointless matter considering the crimes your clan has committed against mine," Suzumebachi said angrily.

"Whatever happened between our clans happened during a war," Shino stated calmly in the face of the woman's anger.

"Regardless those scrolls belong to me by right of blood," she said.

"But entrusted to the Aburame," Shino countered. Before the Iwa kunoichi could retort Shino continued, "However, I will give them to you provided that you do me a small favor."

Eyeing him with suspicion she asked, "And that would be?"

"I need you to make it look like you managed to get that beetle away from me," Shino stated.

"Gladly," Suzumebachi said with a grin which grew bigger as Shino tossed the scrolls to her. After she caught them she asked, "How do you know that I'll up hold my end of the bargain?"

"Having attained that which you desired, it would be foolish of you too risk losing them by attempting to betray our bargain. In addition, this valley stands testament to what our two clans could achieve when they worked together. I chose to believe you would honor that spirit at least here of all places."

"Thank you," she said her voice cracking a little with emotion, "With these we will be able to raise our clan back to prominence."

"I do not believe those scrolls will be of much use to you unless your clan changes its ways," Shino said causing the good feeling Suzumebachi had been feeling towards him to evaporate.

"What the hell does that mean?"

"Your clan uses the bees as sacrificial pawns instead of partners to be cherished. Your jutsus actually are more effective as they die. However such a clan would never have been a part of building this sanctuary for the many species of insects that call this place home. Therefore I cannot believe those scrolls will contain anything that your clan can use, unless it changes its ways."

Angrily she retorted, "As if you are so high and mighty. How many of your beetles did you sacrifice during our previous battles?"

"I lost less than a third of my colony," Shino stated, "But losses during battle are to be expected. Any general knows and accepts this. However that general becomes unworthy of leading men when he begins to purposefully plan sacrifices to obtain results. The same holds true for us, we of the Aburame accept that we will lose some of our colonies in battle but we do not make light of those loses."

At a loss for words she just said, "Tsk, fine believe what you will. Let me collect my wounded brother and then we'll put on a show for your fellow shinobi."

Jibachi was running out of options as he jumped away from a spinning Kiba, but was nailed by his partner. His cloak was shredded from the sharpened nails of the pair and his glasses had long since been lost. He had tried to disengage several times, but the pair continued to maneuver him back into their grasp due to their excellent team work. As he avoided one, the other would be right there to capitalize. Also, to make matters worse he had lost most of his swarm when Kiba had detonated them and couldn't really match the Inuzuka in taijutsu.

He was about to attempt to parlay with the boy but never got the chance as both of them crashed into him using the Fang over Fang jutsu, with Kiba hitting him in the chest and Akamaru hitting in the back. His chest crushed between the pair the man coughed up blood before collapsing. Kiba was just about to taunt his defeated foe when Hinata entered the clearing.

"Hinata," he shouted excitedly," Then said, "I never doubted you for a second."

Hinata didn't get a chance to respond as the giant summon of Suzumebachi flew appeared above them. Holding a bloody and defeated Shino in her hands she said, "Well it would seem you two faired far better than your friend here."

"You bitch let him go," Kiba shouted preparing to attack.

"Gladly," she replied doing as she was told letting him fall to the ground.

Kiba quickly ran up a nearby tree to snatch him from his freefall. Once they both landed on the ground Suzumebachi said, "Don't worry he's still alive. Consider it thanks for dealing with that traitor," while pointing to her defeated brother for the last part of her statement.

Hinata and Kiba watched her fly away most likely with the beetle they had captured. However, they both felt relieved when Shino stirred, immediately apologizing to the pair for losing their prize.

"That's okay buddy," Kiba said, "It happens. Besides, this time at least I'm not going home empty handed as we captured several criminals."

Nodding her head Hinata agreed still a little worn out from all the chakra she had used in defeating her opponents. She suggested, "I believe that even though there is still some time before the beetles lay their eggs getting our prisoners to the proper authorities takes priority."

"Agreed," Shino said accepting a helping hand from Kiba to get to his feet. Although most of his wounds were superficial he couldn't help but believe Suzumebachi had delighted in pounding on him a little more than was necessary. Collecting their prisoners, the three genin proceeded to a nearby outpost to unload them before heading back to Konoha to report their mission was a failure.

Jiraiya was laid up in a hospital bed, on the Earth Country side of the border, doodling down some ideas for a seal that would allow Tayuya to control her abilities and store chakra much the same way the Curse Mark had. Naruto after having returned to Fire Country to summon their mail from Konoha, due to toads and frogs being considered almost as taboo as blonde haired kids, and returning to give Jiraiya his. Had promptly returned to Fire Country to train near the waterfall where he claimed to have seen the water nymph.

Jiraiya chuckled as he thought, "The little fool is probably hoping to catch another glimpse of her. Speaking of which…"

"Oh nurse," he called seeing his favorite one walking by the door to his room. A busty brunette, that if he squinted just right, face reminded him of Tsunade, "I believe it's time for my sponge bath."

Giggling lightly the nurse said, "Master Goku, please stop being such a dirty boy."

"But my dear that's why I need you to make me clean," Jiraiya said causing another fit of giggles from the woman who promised to give him one later.

Chuckling as he returned to his pad, he was glad this hospital wasn't as severe as the rest of the country was and attributed it to being right near the Waterfall Country border. He was traveling under the false name of Goku a wealthy merchant traveling with his servant Tattoo. As befitting his fake credentials he was given a suite that was reserved for ether the very rich or Iwa shinobi. He was currently sharing the room with the later which had worried him at first, but due to the severity of his wounds and that all the dark haired man seemed to be doing was resting put it out of his mind.

Thus far the training trip was turning out to be less than ideal at least as far as warning the jinchuriki was going. A fact that he knew bothered Naruto, as well as the recent revelation their new confrontation had revealed to him. As he waited to receive his sponge bath he remembered the talk they had with Roshi and the altercation that had him looking like a boiled lobster.

"I thank you for the warning," Roshi the jinchuriki of the Four Tailed Monkey had said, "However, remove yourselves from my hermitage."

Naruto had been less than happy at the cold reception showing his displeasure by blurting out, "Don't you get it we are trying to warn you."

"And why should I believe the words of Konoha-nin," Roshi said causing both Jiraiya and Naruto to look at each other in shock. Prompting the jinchuriki to continue, "I of course recognize you Lord Jiraiya of the Sanin. Although we never met in battle I have heard your description told to me many times. You were almost as large a thorn in Iwa's side as that student of yours."

"Regardless," Jiraiya had replied evenly although now slightly afraid a fight would break out, "My new apprentice is right. We are merely here to warn you of Akatsuki's intentions."

"Yes, you seem to be quite unclear on what those actually are however. So again why should I believe you? The Tsuchikage has used their services several times and they have always delivered what they promised."

Jiraiya kept his face calm filing the information away for later so that in his next letter to Tsunade he would be able to confirm that particular rumor for her. He was about to do as Roshi had asked and leave. When Naruto again blurted out, "Why would the Tsuchikage use the services of a group of murdering bastards like that?"

Roshi merely raised an eyebrow so Naruto continued, "Isn't he aware that a murdering psychopath like Itachi Uchiha is a part of it. Not to mention Kisame Hoshigaki."

Calmly Roshi said, "I am not aware if he knows who they are. But does it truly matter…"

"Of course, it matters they are both monsters…"

"You are rather naïve boy," Roshi said cutting him off mid rant, "If anything Itachi's resume would have been one of the reasons hiring him was so attractive. Considering he probably killed more Uchiha than I did during the war. As to him being a monster well that is a matter of opinion. To me, the man training you and his previous student are far worse scum."

Naruto growled slightly at the remark at his hero and sensei's expense and looked like he was about to charge till Jiraiya placed a calming hand on his shoulder saying, "Remember what I said about hatred Naruto."

Naruto calmed before turning to walk away saying, "Well talk to him about it. He's the one that holding a grudge against Konoha, even though Granny Tsunade is trying to warn the jinchuriki."

It isn't that simple I'm afraid," Jiraiya stated, "He has a reason to bear a hatred towards me and Konoha as I'm sure I've killed several of his colleagues. Just as I know he's killed several of mine." The jinchuriki nodded his head at that point so Jiraiya continued, "However Naruto is right in saying our purpose here isn't to bring up the past, but to warn you of a potential threat."

"Which is why I will allow you to leave without incident," Roshi said already turning to enter his hermitage but stopped adding, "Something it appears you should have done when I first offered you the opportunity. Hello Han."

"So you are meeting with the enemy Roshi," Han said leaping from the roof of Roshi's hermitage. Due to the heavy metal armor he wore as he landed on the ground it collapsed a little under his feet. Walking towards the three shinobi menacingly he said, "I'll deal with you after I kill these Konoha bastards."

Roshi merely leaned against one of the supports of his modest porch saying, "Really and why would you feel that is necessary? They merely gave me the same warning as you."

His deep voice rumbling Han said, "Because you were merely going to allow two of our enemies to walk away."

"They came to offer me a warning." Roshi countered, "It wouldn't be right to attack them under such circumstances."

"Regardless stay out of my way or I'll kill you as well."

Shrugging Roshi said, "As you wish. Do as you like."

Naruto was already preparing to grab his blade but was stopped by Jiraiya, who said, "Stay out of this, Naruto."

"What?"

"Naruto, I know you want to prove yourself. But this man has years more experience and battle prowess. Both of these Jinchuriki have fought in the Third Great Shinobi War and are not to be underestimated. Just be thankful Roshi doesn't wish to become involved or this could get messy."

"Your words don't matter Jiraiya," Han said disdainfully, "I plan to kill you both at the same time." To make his declaration a reality the furnace on the back of his armor bean emitting steam which Han was able to control in a similar manner as Gaara. Reaching an arm towards the two Konoha shinobi the steam took on the form of his hand which he followed his movements as he tried to crush the two of them.

Both Shinobi avoided the attack with Jiraiya shouting, "Naruto go to a two tail state now."

Naruto hesitated for a moment but complied as the Kyuubi's chakra began to cover him. Jiraiya knew that Naruto would give him hell for ordering him to use the Kyuubi's chakra. However he considered it a small trade-off for the protection he knew it would grant the boy. He could already feel blisters breaking out on his skin from the near miss. He also knew just how much trouble they were in as Han had been the Fourth Tsuchikage's ultimate weapon. Only two Shinobi from Konoha had ever proven his equal in actual combat, Minato Namikaze and Kushina Uzumaki.

He planned to add his name to that list as they had never met but knew the Jinchuriki would be no easy battle. Especially, if he let his Bijuu enter into the mix, a matter that Naruto didn't seem to care about as he was already charging his fellow jinchuriki. Jiraiya was about to follow but decided to step in if Naruto needed help. Naruto was quickly proving to be an outstanding student and although not a genius like his father achieved similar results as quickly by applying his mother's work ethic. Since the Yellow Flash and Bloody Habanero had proved to be able to best Han he guessed that their son should be able to prove equal to the task.

As Naruto ran towards Han he formed a cross hand sign filling the field around the hermitage with copies of himself. Han's eye grew large in surprise having faced an opponent that could use shadow clones in a similar manner in the past. Reacting quickly he began moving his arms in large sweeping gestures causing the steam to respond, tearing into the ranks of clones. He had long since lost track of the real one as well as several of the clones as the destruction of so many created a large cloud of smoke that obscured their movements. Han stood still attempting to locate his opponent or to pick up some movement within the cloud.

Suddenly a Naruto shot out of the cloud at the far larger man, but was caught around the throat by the jinchuriki who then proceeded to smash him into the ground. Jiraiya was about to step in when the shadow clone exploded. A trick, that Jiraiya had recently taught him in between all the meditation training. Breathing a sigh of relief he looked on worried as Han began regaining his feet.

Looking around Jiraiya spotted Naruto standing at the edge of the field around the hermitage with sword in hand. Han's gaze found him at roughly the same time. Getting angrier that he was being beaten by some kid, Han began recklessly charging towards Naruto who stood his ground.

Just as he was about to reach Naruto, the Kyuubi jinchuriki stabbed his sword into the earth turning the ground into mud using the Swamp of the Underworld jutsu. However, Naruto didn't have nearly the proficiency with the jutsu that Jiraiya did resulting in a bog that Han easily blew apart using a concentrated blast of his steam blowing the boy onto his back.

Standing over the boy Han said, "Any last words boy?"

"Yeah…" the boy said but it was a call from behind Han that finished, "Rasengan."

Naruto appeared from behind Han jumping from the long grass outside the field and slammed the swirling ball of chakra into Han's steam furnace on his back causing it to explode. Jiraiya was in the process of charging towards his student to rescue him when the hot cloud of water vapor hit him giving him his lobster appearance. Naruto due to the Kyuubi's chakra remained virtually unharmed but Han's armor was completely ruined.

Naruto began walking towards his fellow jinchuriki who had only stared up at two opponents before. He saw a vision of those two shinobi standing behind the boy as he got closer. Naruto stood over Han who said, "Go on do it. Finish me because if our position were reversed I'd kill you in an instant."

"I'm sorry you had a rough life," Naruto said sadly before giving a smile, "Just keep an eye out for Akatsuki would you."

He turned to see a red Jiraiya standing there looking proud at his student before the boy burst out laughing while pointing at him. "Wow Pervy Sage, I think you stayed out in the sun a little too long."

"Shut up you little idiot," Jiraiya said beginning to dance as the pain began to set in, "I got burnt trying to rescue you."

"I didn't need rescuing," Naruto said, "I'm going to be Hokage someday."

Scoffing Jiraiya said while walking gingerly away from the hermitage, "You have a long way to go before then believe me."

Naruto began to pout but stopped as he heard Han say, "Wait boy."

Turning the pair saw Han being helped to his feet by Roshi. The older man let Han use his shoulder to stay standing as the jinchuriki asked, "What's your name?"

"Naruto Uzumaki, future Hokage of the Village Hidden in the Leaves."

"I suppose I should have guessed you would be an Uzumaki. You fight just like her."

"What! What do you mean?" Naruto asked, however Han merely nodded to Roshi who began leading the larger man to his hut.

"Hey you bastard, who were you talking about?"

"Her name was Kushina Uzumaki, the creator of the multi-shadow clone jutsu, or better known in Iwa as Kushina of the Red Legion," Roshi answered without looking back. The two jinchuriki had disappeared into the hut leaving a shocked Naruto who immediately began grilling Jiraiya.

"I wasn't expecting that," Jiraiya thought as voices from his roommate and guest on the other side of the divide began to pull him from his reverie. Naruto had interrogated him pretty hard, but Jiraiya was glad the truth came out as it gave him a way around the S-class Secret that Naruto's parentage was. He had eventually told Naruto that Kushina was indeed his mother. Before he began to really recall the memory the conversation next to him caught his interest.

"So basically the scrolls were less than useful and didn't contain any of our grandfather's jutsu." The gruff voice he presumed was his male roommates said.

"I'm afraid so," the female voice replied, "One scroll only contained some fairy tale about a ten-tailed Bijuu."

That immediately perked his interest. Especially as the woman said bitterly, "I tried to get it appraised but the antique dealer I took it too said it was worthless. Even when I told him it belonged to the First Tsuchikage. He told me to stop wasting his time after that."

"What of the second scroll?" the man asked with a little hope left in his voice.

"A queen bee that grandfather intended to implant in our father to create a shinobi much like the Aburame, but he stopped when he saw our father on what he claimed was a wrong path in our pact with the insects we use. I guess the Aburame was right. We have lost our way."

"Well perhaps we can forge a new one then," Kurobachi said trying to cheer his sister up and had survived by replacing himself with a honey clone right before Toki's attack had connected.

"Perhaps, but the bee is dead, and although the scroll contains the means to breed another. It will take money that the Kamizuru clan does not have."

"The Tsuchikage may be willing to allow us a budget for such an endeavor," Kurobachi said his hope being renewed. Unlike his youngest sibling he and Suzumebachi had met their grandfather before he died. He remembered the man as always talking about the wonders of insects but being bitter about the clan's treatment of them. Of course after his death the three siblings had been incorporated into the newer methods of fighting that the clan had developed. Methods that had been completely lacking when faced against the Aburame.

He remembered a lesson his grandfather had taught him, "Those that see the insects as merely a tool will never match up against those who see their insects as a part of them." It was a philosophy that proved correct as the Kamizuru were almost wiped out during the Third Great Shinobi War.

Suzumebachi however didn't believe that was likely as she said, "The Tsuchikage is quite displeased with us at the moment. He says we are very lucky that Konoha has not made an issue of our crossing into its territory. They were even going to return our brother, but the Tsuchikage said to keep him. It looks like I destroyed our family for nothing."

"Well then perhaps your luck is about to change," Jiraiya said pulling the divider open.

Suzumebachi turned towards the man who was still lying in his bed with a goofy smile on his face. "What do you mean?"

"Well I couldn't help but hear you got your hands on a very old scroll and I happen to be a collector of such things." Jiraiya said merrily giving off the air of a well to do merchant.

"Well if you were ease-dropping than you also know the scroll is worthless," Suzumebachi said suspicious.

"Why would I listen to the opinion of a close-minded merchant that obviously doesn't know the first thing about an objects value?"

"And that would be?" Kurobachi asked.

"That its true value is in the eye of the beholder," Jiraiya said, "For instance, I'm sure that I can off load a scroll held by the first Tsuchikage containing a fairy tale he may have told to his grandchildren for a considerable sum to the right collector."

"He never told us the tale," Kurobachi said.

"Minor details, minor details," Jiraiya said waving his hand indicating it didn't matter. "Just a little something I'd add to make the deal with the collector I have in mind."

"How can you be sure it was even owned by the First Tsuchikage?" Suzumebachi said, "That was another point the vendor said why it was worthless being that he couldn't prove what I said is true."

"That may be," Jiraiya said still sounding very interested, "But why would you lie to each other. I dare say if this is some elaborate con it is the cleverest one I have ever been privy to. Your brother was admitted on death's door if I heard the doctors around her correctly. Not exactly something most conmen would be willing to do to themselves in order to make a sale."

The two Kamizuru looked at each other before Suzumebachi asked a little hopeful, "How much would you be willing to offer?"

"May I be capable of inspecting it first?"Jiraiya asked.

The Kamizuru bit her lip before pulling out the scroll placing it in Jiraiya's outstretched hand. Opening it now that the Blood Seal was gone Jiraiya kept his face impassive as he examined it. However inside he couldn't believe his luck as he had little doubt that this scroll contained a similar story as the one the missing book in the First Mizukage's collection was implied to have told. Was this some secret that each of the founders of the Hidden Villages had shared among themselves? Was this why the First Hokage had divvied the Tailed-Beasts among those villages? He would need to inspect this scroll in much greater detail away from prying eyes.

With that in mind he said, "This scroll is indeed very valuable." Holding it up he said "You see this paper is very rare. It was made from the now extinct White Monkey ash tree."

"I've never heard of such a tree," Kurobachi said.

"I'm not surprised as it was very rare and unfortunately disappeared several hundred centuries ago. I dare say this scroll is far older than you led me to believe. It's amazing how well it held up which was one of the reasons that the White Monkey Ash tree was so popular for making scrolls so long ago."

Pulling out a checkbook from his bag he continued as he wrote down the amount, "Well due to the paper alone. I would be willing to pay this much." Holding the check up both Kamizuru eyes widened in surprise and shock.

Suzumebachi said, "That would be enough to start a breeding program several times over. It can't possibly be that valuable can it?"

"Oh absolutely," Jiraiya said, "But only to the right buyer. So what do you say?"

"How can we be sure you aren't the one scamming us?" Kurobachi asked.

"Simple your sister can cash that check, while the scroll remains with you. Now do we have a deal?"

The two siblings looked at each other and both could see what the other was thinking. They wanted that scroll to be the means by which they saved their clan and while it wasn't in the way either expected. They couldn't turn down the opportunity the eccentric merchant seemed to be giving them. For the pair Suzumebachi said, "We accept."

Jiraiya nodded smiling friendly as the woman left to cash the check. Glad he had the foresight to set up many such accounts. Money was of no concern especially due to the treasure he had just found. No this scroll was far more valuable than even the considerable sum he had just paid out. With a major clue as to what the puppet master behind Yagura's rise in Kiri was truly after sitting in his lap he couldn't wait to delve into it.

Naruto was waiting for Jiraiya at the waterfall where they had retreated to the first time they had escaped from Han. They had needed to run all the way to Fire Country in order to escape the jinchuriki the first time. His sensei had said their next destination was going to be Takigakure; however his mind wasn't on any of those matters as he balanced one handed on a rock jutting out over the waterfall attempting to remain completely motionless as Jiraiya had told him to.

No his mind was on the fact that he finally had a name for the woman that had given birth to him. Kushina Uzumaki. He had been pissed when he found out that Jiraiya had known all along only being placated when he had been told that it was an S-class secret. Jiraiya had further calmed him by saying that it was a secret he had disagreed with but couldn't go against and was glad the truth about Kushina had come out.

Still balancing he began to remember the conversation the first question had been, "Did she leave because of the Kyuubi?"

Naruto could tell the question made Jiraiya uncomfortable but finally the Toad Sannin said, "No, but you could say the Kyuubi was at the heart of the matter." Jiraiya had cut him off before he could ask for more information saying, "I can't tell you more the same law that prevents me from telling you about who your dad is prevents me." Dropping to his knee Jiraiya said, "But don't ever doubt that they both loved you okay."

"What happened to her then?"

"I don't know, I truly wish I could answer that for you," Jiraiya answered not prepared to admit just how recently she had been lost. As they had walked towards the hospital to get Jiraiya's burns treated. The Toad Sannin had told him all that he could remember about his mother from her bold declaration of being the first female Hokage to how she had beat the crap out of the boys that had laughed at her as a result that statement.

When he had asked if the reason she hadn't been made Hokage was due to her status as an outsider Jiraiya had laughed and merely said, "No something better came along."

"What," he had asked earnestly.

"Your father, and then eventually you," Jiraiya said with a faraway look, "You know they named you after a character in one of my books."

Naruto's face scrunched up at that bit of information afraid that his parents had been perverts. "I don't want to hear that."

"What it was my very first book," Jiraiya said in a huff, "It was a huge failure. But your folks liked it and hoped you would turn out just like the main character. I have to say I'm glad to see that you did."

"Really," Naruto said his voice sounding pleased, "Do you think they would be happy with how I turned out?"

"They might not be pleased with the roundabout path you needed to take, but absolutely."

The two settled into silence for a while until Jiraiya was admitted into the hospital. Just before he was wheeled into his room to be treated Naruto asked, "Can I see it. The book I mean."

Jiraiya had smiled reaching into his bag and pulled out his worn copy of The Legend of the Gutsy Ninja.

Beginning to wobble Naruto decided to give up trying to achieve perfect stillness for a while and returned to the small camp he had set up near the riverbank near the base of the waterfall hoping to catch another glimpse of the nymph he had saw. Pulling out the book he began to read trying and for the most part succeeding in feeling a connection to the people who had chosen his name after reading it.

Word had been sent to Tsunade about the capture of the Shinobazu as well as the single Kamizuru. Tsunade had secretly delighted in sending that little grumpy old man of a Kage her strongly worded response on the matter. She was also expecting the team responsible for the capture any minute as her Anbu had just reported their arrival at the gate.

Sure enough a knock alerted her to their arrival so she told them to enter. Once they had assembled in front of her she said, "Well while your actual mission was a failure. I will have a commendation added to each of your files."

"What but we failed?" Kiba said surprised.

"True, however the arrest and incarceration of a present threat such as the Shinobazu far and away exceeds the possibility of locating a future one. You should know that due to your actions the last member of the gang turned himself in and also revealed that he had managed to save many of the children that the gang would otherwise have killed."

"What will happen to him?" Hinata asked.

"Probably a light sentence, such as parole with some sort of community service. Nothing tugs on the heartstrings like a room full of kids saying the only reason they were alive was due to his actions. In any case, a job well done and performed under extremely difficult circumstances. You should all feel proud of yourselves. Shino are you back at a hundred percent or do you feel you require medical assistance?"

"I am fine Lady Hokage," Shino said, "I sustained only minor injuries. The greatest blow was to my pride which should be easily rectified with a little training."

"Understood, but take it easy for a few days. Perhaps another bug hunt with your father is in order. If there is nothing new you are dismissed" Tsunade said.

"I believe I have had my fill of such things for a while," Shino said bowing slightly as he turned to leave.

Once out of the Hokage building the three friends began walking home with Kiba finally saying, "Man if all bug hunts were like that, I'd be taking up a new hobby right Akamaru." His puppy yipped in agreement.

Hinata said, "I think I'll stick to pressing flowers myself," before arriving at her turnoff.

After saying her good-byes she arrived at the apartment she shared with Sakura who was dressed like she was heading out on a mission. Sakura looked up from the piece of paper she was holding before smiling and saying, "Oh good your back. I was hoping to run into you before I left to ask you something."

Hinata noticing the piece of paper had a drawing on it nodded before asking, "What did you need to ask me?"

"Well you see," Sakura began a little nervous, "Before we moved in together Sai asked me to do a small favor for him, which was to collect the drawings he sent me into a book. Unfortunately, I'm going to be out of the village for several weeks on a, herb gathering mission with Shizune. So I was wondering if you could collect them for me if more arrive."

"Why does Sai need you to collect them?" Hinata asked.

Shrugging Sakura said, "He wanted to make a present for Naruto, but I guess the guy he is working under is kind of a jerk and wouldn't like to know he was working on a side project. He said he also wanted to keep it a surprise for Naruto's return, so don't mention it to him okay."

Hinata nodded so Sakura showed her the bin she had bought for them before handing the picture in her hand to Hinata having to run out the door to meet Shizune on time. The Hyuuga princess looked at the picture in her hand with a small smile as she saw a faceless boy standing between some threat and two little girls. The picture reminded her of the last kidnapping attempt Kumo had made for her; curious she pulled out the other pictures mindful of the order and began flipping through them. When she reached the current picture she hoped that Sai hurried with the next picture as she really wanted to know how the story ended.

Shino had arrived at his compound and even though he had talked to his father made no mention of his success. He settled in to go to sleep at his normal time giving off the appearance that everything was normal and that he was just a little upset at being defeated. At just after one o'clock he snuck out of bed to head to the abandoned Uchiha District. Entering a building that had at one time served as a candy store he wasn't surprised when his father stepped out of the darkness saying, "So you have completed your mission."

Pulling the scroll that housed the mated female Bikouchuu Shino said, "Yes father, although I still feel sullied for having lied to my friends."

"I am sorry for the difficult position I put you in, but I assure you it was necessary," Shibi said.

"Why"

"Follow me," the Aburame clan head said before walking into the back of the candy store. Walking to a wall he moved a light fixture and a section of the wall opened up.

Shino was surprised to find such a thing, but followed behind his father. However as he soon as he spotted the tables that would house the hive for the beetles his father intended to breed he asked, "Is all this secrecy really necessary and why would a candy shop house a secret room like this."

"Yes this secrecy is necessary and as to your second question," Shibi said, "It would appear that the Uchiha had a liking for secrets as this room is just one of many that I have recently found most of which had been stockpiled with weapons. As to why I cannot say. But much like the Uchiha we now find ourselves needing to operate in the shadows."

"You mean the Aburame," Shino asked surprised.

Before his father could respond a rough chuckle could be heard as Ibiki stepped into the light, "No boy this is much larger than the Aburame. Or any one clan, for that matter. This is about the very survival of the village we have come to love and desire to protect."

"I don't understand," Shino said.

So Ibiki decided to enlighten him."There is a group that was formed around the end of the Second Shinobi War. This group's name is called Root. They started out as an elite group of Anbu meant to inspire fear in our enemies. It did, due to its leader a man named Danzou. I believe you are familiar with him." Shino nodded his head so Ibiki continued, "Well we won the war and eventually the Third Hokage felt we no longer needed such a force so disbanded it."

"I take it they didn't," Shino said after a moment.

"Officially they did," Ibiki corrected, "Unofficially though, we believe that Danzou has continued his Root organization and has been seeding his forces into Konoha for decades in hopes of installing himself as Hokage with force if necessary."

"Then why not arrest him?" Shino asked.

"Because this is Konoha and we don't haul people off to jail on mere suspicion. Only proof boy, and our opponent is far too slippery to leave proof just lying around."

"I see and these beetles are to help you gather that proof."

"That's it exactly. The reason we had you jump through such hoops was because Danzou would otherwise suspect or want to know how the beetles were being used. We needed to prevent that from happening."

"Still I have a hard time understanding why we have to hide this from the rest of the clan surely they are above working for such a man."

"Do not assume such Shino," Shibi gently rebuked his son, "I have had my eye on several of our clansmen who may be working with Danzou."

"Our enemy had been at this for decades Shino," Ibiki said, "and he can have pawns planted anywhere. The only reason you are here is because your father vouched for you. Some among your and many other clans wouldn't even be able to say that much."

"So what do you call yourselves then?"

"We don't call ourselves anything boy," Ibiki said, "When you name something you define it. You give it a picture in your mind. If I say chair, you know exactly what I'm talking about. Much like if I say Root, you are now able to define it as an enemy of Konoha. By not naming ourselves we remain as real as a shadow but just as hard to grasp. We are a clan head, a genin, and the leader of the I.T department. But, if he captures or kills us we can just as likely be a chef that retired early or any other number of things he can't even begin to guess at. Only one person knows how all the threads are connected."

"The Hokage," Shino said almost certain.

"No even a Hokage can be removed and she would be the most likely target," Ibiki stated, "You'll find out when the time comes, but that will only be when we are ready to move."

"And what role will I play in this conspiracy?" Shino asked.

"For now, help your dad get those beetles ready," Ibiki said, "When the time for action comes you'll know."