Alright, Chapter 2. Here it is.
Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto.
Chapter 2
A few weeks went by and Naruto was getting better in his training. Anko had been keeping it a secret from most, and even what she's been teaching him from the Hokage. He was going to turn 5 next month. Anko realized it and decided to give him the day off of Training, so he could hide for that day. She knew that they would attack him because of Akane.
"Hey, Naruto. Your birthday is in a few weeks. Is there something you'd like to get?" Anko asked.
"Well, I would like to see my mother, some day. My birthday is probably not a good day to do so, though. The village will go after me with everything they have and more. I'm glad you were sticking with me, regardless of what happened back then. I mean, I know it's not her fault, but still. You're not like the others." Naruto said.
Anko smirked. "Well then, how about you see her in a few days?" Naruto's eyes went wide.
"Kushina sent me a message saying that she's coming back. She wants to see her son. It will take a few days, but she'll be here. She seemed a little pissed off that they told her you were dead, when you obviously weren't." Anko continued. "Does that mean I have to leave you, nee-san?"
Anko shook her head. "She knows you and I have grown close, and isn't mad about me training you. She is a little shocked at the fact you have 2 senseis. One of which, she said may try to corrupt you. She wants you to learn some proper etiquette, but that doesn't seem to be your style, to me. To that, she said you're just like your father. The man who only wore a tux at his wedding. There's nothing to worry about regarding our friendship."
Naruto had a grin plastered on his face. "Don't get too excited, Naruto-kun. She may have you stop talking to me, and thus, you lose one of your senseis."
'She can't get you away from me. That just wouldn't be possible. You are in my mindscape. There's nothing she can do about it.'
"You really are sweet."
'Even when I'm not trying to be. Anyway, I believe it's time I head back to my Training.'
"Hey, Nee-san?"
"Training?" Anko asked. Naruto nodded.
"I still need to get my style down. I want to impress my mom with it. I can't do that if it's flawed." Naruto said, earning a nod.
"Okay then. Let's go." they both went off to the Forest of Death.
-Hokage's tower-
Sarutobi was watching the whole exchange. He had been watching Naruto and Anko a lot lately. If he wasn't doing his paperwork, he was basically watching the two of them bond. 'It's almost as if they really are brother and sister.'
They made it to the Forest of Death. It was their usual training ground. 'I still don't get why they always train in there. It's not exactly safe.'
"Still, he's made some progress the entire time. Though, I wonder who Akane is." Sarutobi said.
They reached a clearing, and this time the Hokage didn't have any paperwork to fill out. He would be free to watch them train with each other.
-with Naruto-
Naruto made a handsign. "Shadow Clone Jutsu!" About 150 Clones filled the clearing. He didn't realize the Hokage was watching him. He got in his Taijutsu stance that he had been developing. His right arm was in front of his torso, somewhat loose with his right hand open, but with the fingers curled a bit. His left arm was to the side, the hand behind his leg in proportion to his body. His feet were farther apart than most styles, but for him, it was needed. He had a slight hunch in his back, but his head was straight up.
The Clones all got ready in the same stance. The Clones rushed the Original 3 or 4 at a time. It was somewhat easy to dispel them with a single hit. He got under their guard, and got rid of them with ease. When one went down, another came in to join. He was basically putting himself through the wringer physically.
-Hokage's tower-
Sarutobi had been watching how his style is being used. 'I should get Might Guy on this kid. His Taijutsu Training is effective, in ways I would never expect. Hold on... Shadow Clones? How did he learn that technique?'
Sarutobi was thinking so much into it, when he noticed that Anko wasn't helping him in the least bit. 'Did she teach it to him? No, even she isn't that good with it.'
-with Naruto-
Naruto had already taken out about 120 clones. There was only 28 left, plus himself. He didn't even look winded. He waited for the clones to come, but they did something he didn't quite expect. They charged him all at once. He was immediately put on the defensive, and took out a few at a time, while dodging the others.
His flexibility was beyond great. His stamina was inhuman, (A/N: It's a Jinchuuriki thing) and to top it all off, his strength in the hits was far more than anyone else could gauge at his age. It finally came down to 3 clones, and the original. None of them seemed winded from it all. The last three charged him and in a flurry of limbs, all three dispelled. Speed was evident there.
Anko looked at him and nodded. "Well?"
"It's not perfect, but It's getting better. Akane did say this would help me out in a few ways. I have seen what I'm lacking, and have been trying to correct those points. I have the Speed, Stamina, and Form down. All I need now is to close the gaps I'm leaving open, and I'll be good." Naruto replied, earning a nod.
"Well then, let's go for a little one on one. You and me. Let's see how you do." Anko said. Naruto nodded, and got into his stance. The stance is somewhat unpredictable. Anko knew that firsthand.
"Begin!" Naruto charged Anko. Anko managed to dodge, and tried to counter. She missed, and Naruto got back a bit, before going in to attack once again.
-Hokage's tower-
Sarutobi was watching the spar with interest. 'He is obviously doing better than most would think. Not even I can see a set pattern in his style. It's almost as if he created it to be unpredictable in a fight. It certainly seems that way.'
Someone knocked on his door. "Enter!"
A guy in green spandex, with a bowl haircut and the biggest Eyebrows in the village had walked in. "You wanted to see me, Lord Hokage?"
"Yes, I did. Take a look at this kid. I've been watching him spar with Anko for a few minutes now." The guy walked up and took a look. He noticed the style being used, and found something was up with it.
"That style... the stance... those moves... It can't be."
"You know what style he's using, Guy?" Sarutobi asked.
"I've only heard legends of it. Not even I have mastered it. Heck I haven't even found much on it period. Only rumors have ever been told. The Kitsune Style." Guy replied.
"What do you know about it?" Sarutobi looked at him.
"From what I hear, the Kitsune style is different from almost all other styles. It is one of the few that are not predictable. In fact, unpredictability is a key element to it. However, that style has no records of it anywhere. I know one thing for sure. That style is hard to master. Those that do... They can easily be considered Taijutsu specialists. It's either that, or one of the most unpredictable fighters around. How old is he?"
"4 years. He'll be turning 5 next month on the 10th." Sarutobi said.
"Well then, that explains how he can even use that style. It doesn't, however, explain how he even knows of it."
"How so?"
"The Kitsune style is made to work like a fox. If that's who I think it is, then he is obviously learning it from the Kyuubi. How he even managed to convince him to do so is beyond me."
Sarutobi sighed. "That would explain a lot more than I thought. He has already made contact with the Kyuubi. That same Kyuubi and Anko, the one he's currently sparring with, are both teaching him since the rest of the village won't even bother to. They do speak of someone by the name of Akane, but I have no records of anyone by that name. They refer to her as a she, but that's about it."
"Hmm... I think I figured that out. Akane is the Kyuubi. Would that make any sense?" Guy asked, widening the eyes of Sarutobi.
'Why didn't I think of that before? I must be losing my touch.' "Guy, is there anything else that is needed to be known about this style?"
"Well, aside from the rumors of it, I can't say anything. I've never come in contact with it, and therefore don't know much for myself. It's clear that Akane is teaching the Kitsune Style to him, but for what reason?" Guy asked no one in particular.
"What is the usual skill set of the Style, or do you know that?"
"I don't know much, but I do know that Speed, Stamina, Flexibility, and Unpredictability. Strength is optional, but would come along with training it. That kid will easily be a Taijutsu beast." Guy replied. "I'm sorry I can't be of much help here. It's my best suit, and even I don't know everything about it. I do, however, know that looking for patterns in it is useless. Just by watching him, I can see that much."
Sarutobi nodded. "Come to think of it, that area looks like the Forest of Death."
"It is. They've been training in there for a few weeks now. This is the first time I've actually watched them train, though. I must say, I am utterly surprised at his progress. Then again, he went after 150 Shadow Clones of himself before this. So I can't really say that."
Guy's eyes widened. "Is it possible for me to see him spar up close?"
"Not likely. When I don't have any paperwork to fill out, I'm watching these two. They've been living together for sometime, and have even been training together. If she gets his shinobi skills up, he may even be Chuunin level before he graduates."
"He's already above it in Taijutsu. To use a style such as that is far beyond easy. You have to move without thinking, and not worry about going for a pattern yourself. Your body will be working itself, going for the unpredictable part of the style, while also reacting to your opponents blows. It's highly possible for one to use Jutsu in a style such as this, as long as it can be used without any handsigns." Guy said.
-with Naruto-
Naruto and Anko were still going at it, without a hint of exhaustion. Anko was losing her touch for a bit, but picked it back up after a few seconds. The second time she lost it, she didn't have enough time to recover. Naruto got a hit in on her face. Anko hit a tree and sent it toppling.
Naruto looked at his opponent. Anko was in a daze. He walked up to her, and noticed that she was down for the count. "You okay, Anko-neechan?"
"Uh... my head. Huh? What happened?" Anko said, noticing the Blonde Maelstrom in front of her.
"I, uh, got a hit to your face and you toppled a tree on impact." Naruto said, a little worried.
"Uh... That actually hurt. If one hit packs that much of punch, I don't want to be at the receiving end of it." Anko said, chuckling. Naruto started to chuckle as well.
"And to think I didn't even use Akane Youki for that hit. Heck I didn't even use my own Chakra. That hit was all muscle, and not boosted in any way." Naruto said, as his chuckle burst into a laugh. Anko started to laugh, as well.
Back at the Hokage's tower, two people had their jaws wide open.
"Well, let's get to meditation, then. That should help out for a bit." Anko said, getting a nod from Naruto. They both sat down near a still standing tree, and seemed to relax.
-Konoha North gate-
Someone was coming up to the gate. The two guards were bored, but then they saw who was coming. They were instantly frightened. She walked up to the Gate where they were. "Izumo, Kotetsu. It's been a while, hasn't it?"
They both realized she might not be mad. "Y-yes, it has." Izumo said.
Kotetsu looked at him. "I'm sorry Kushina. Is there a reason for your return?"
"Yes, there is. However, I just need to know one thing. Where is the one by the name of Naruto Uzumaki?" Kushina asked.
"Why do you want to know where that demon..." Izumo started off loud but stopped the moment a blade reached his neck. Kushina had the handle.
"Don't. You. Dare. Call my son a Demon." Kushina's voice was saying that you don't want to piss me off. Otherwise, you're dead.
Izumo gulped... as much as he could with a sword at his throat. Kotetsu was surprised at this. "You mean you have a son? Why didn't you tell anyone, and why is it that he looks like Minato?"
"So... he got his father's looks, huh? That makes it simple. There were very few that looked like him when I left. If I see anyone harm him, I will hunt them down, and I will kill them. Simple as that." Kushina walked off.
-with Naruto and Anko-
They were walking through town, looking for something else to do. Someone was coming up to them, sword on her back. She had red hair, and looked pretty powerful. Naruto just found her presence familiar.
The woman walked straight up to them both. She was looking at Naruto intently. "Uh... Hi?"
"Naruto Uzumaki, right?" Naruto stiffened. Anko noticed this, and since she didn't recognize the woman, she got in between them. "No one is to hurt him. Otherwise they're going through me."
The woman looked at Anko with interest. "Ah, Anko. It surely has been a while, hasn't it? You obviously didn't recognize me. I'm not surprised that Naruto doesn't. After all..." Naruto's eyes widened at that point, and charged her. "I don't believe it! You came back!"
Anko looked the embrace, and found the Red head was at peace with it. She finally made the connection. "Kushina? Is that really you?" She looked up and raised an eyebrow.
"I can't believe you forgot who I was, Anko." She turned her head to Naruto. "Hey, Naruto. I know you probably can't forgive me for what happened so far."
"Don't worry, mom. I'm fine. Anko-neechan has been with me for a while, and we've been working on my Ninja Training." Naruto said, surprising Kushina a bit. "Ninja Training? At your age?"
He nodded. "I have to get better if I'm going to be the best. I've got to make you proud somehow." Kushina looked at him. "Well, then let's see what you can do."
Naruto looked at Anko. They both nodded. "Well, I guess it's time we head to our usual training spot. Let's go!" Naruto, Anko, and Kushina headed off.
2 minutes later and they were outside the Forest of Death. "Naruto, stop!" Naruto did so, as did Anko. "Do you realize what this place is?" Kushina asked.
Naruto just nodded. "I already know what kind of danger this Forest poses, and nothing ever happens. Wolves do come up to us sometimes, and I play around with them from time to time, but nothing ever attacks me in here. Besides, I could always train in here without being interrupted by the villagers wanting me in a grave, because of Akane. I still don't blame her, or dad about what happened."
Kushina went wide eyed again. "You mean... You already know how to access her strength?"
Naruto looked at her. "Uh... no. I am on good terms with her, yes. She does want me to get rid of the bastard that forced her to attack the village in the first place, and she did say she was grateful to my dad for sealing her into me. That's all I can really say on the matter. The Old man, near as I can figure, doesn't know that I already found out who my father was, or that I can talk to her. Well, if we want someplace quiet, this is the best place for us."
Kushina looked at him, and nodded. "Let's go then." They went into the forest. An ANBU appeared there, and went in after them.
When the 3 of them reached the clearing, Anko and Kushina stood near the edge. Naruto created about 100 Shadow Clones. "Alright! Let's do this!" Naruto got into his Kitsune Stance. He charged into the sea of Clones, and they started going down at about 3 or 4 at a time. They backed off for a bit and then charged in groups of 5. He got rid of one, another took its place.
When he got rid of all of them, he turned to his mother. His eyes flickering from Blue to Red. He sat down, and leaned against a tree.
"You overexerted yourself, this time. You're losing a bit of control you need to meditate and regain some of it. Or at least rest up. If you are not in control of your own body, you cannot do some of the simpler tasks."
'Sorry, Akane-chan.'
"Anko-neechan, I kind of overexerted myself. I'm gonna need to rest for a bit. Think now would be a good time for that?" Naruto asked, earning a nod.
"Hey, do you think it would be possible to have Kushina meet Akane?" Anko asked.
"I don't know. You're the only one so far to do so." Naruto said, before he tensed. "We've got company."
Kushina nodded. "He's here for me. I recognize his Chakra Signature. It's an old friend of mine."
The ANBU landed in front of the group of 3. "An Inu mask? Really?" Kushina stated.
"It sure has been a while, Kushina." The ANBU said.
"That it has. Anyway, why did you follow us in here?"
"I wanted to say hi to you, and also protect the almost Carbon copy of my Sensei. I mean, look at him. If not for the whisker marks, he'd look almost exactly like Minato-sensei." The ANBU said.
"You know, why don't you remove your mask? After all, few people come in here, so you're good." Kushina said.
The man reached for the ANBU mask, and took it off. Revealing a head of silver-gray hair that seemed to defy Gravity. A leaf headband is covering his left eye. A mask covers the bottom half of his face. "I feel like I should trust you, Kushina. After all, your marriage was never made public."
Anko looked at him. "Kakashi Hatake? You're friends with Kushina as well?"
"Why wouldn't I be friends with my Sensei's wife? I was there at their wedding, after all. It was kept on the down low, so don't tell anyone about that. In fact, I was one of the select few that knew both of his parents, and could even give you a complete personality record of them both. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to say anything about their relation to Naruto here, due to a law that was supposed to protect him. A lot of good that did him." Kakashi said.
"The fact they'd try to take him out is an insult to Minato-sensei, and that is something I will not take sitting down. If I am in the village, I watch over him. If I'm on a mission, I get it over with as fast as possible, without making mistakes, and get back here ASAP. He needed someone to protect him from the majority of the Village. They didn't honor his final wish, and I was about ready to kill a few people with my own Jutsu. That was when he left to this forest. He found a friend in Anko, they got close, and I figured I could let up for a while. They both protect each other. Being outcasts brought them together and that sense of friendship is what keeps them together. If I didn't know any better, I'd say they've actually gotten close enough to become siblings."
Kushina looked at him. "What about Jiraiya and Tsunade?"
"Jiraiya couldn't take him with him. Tsunade probably was told the same thing as you. She fled, not even bothering to pack anything. She was too broken to see anything. Although, I have felt Jiraiya's presence a few times. I never could find him, and figured it was just me."
Naruto started to speak. "Well, I know who they are as people, but what relation do they have to me?"
Kushina and Kakashi looked at him. "Naruto, Jiraiya was supposed to be your Godfather, and Tsunade your Godmother. Kakashi knew this much, and would've tried to find them if he could."
"It was either that, or adopt him myself. Unfortunately, the latter was made illegal for anyone to do. If not for that, he would've found a home with me, or the Nara Clan. That much I know for sure." Kakashi said, a little anger present in his voice. Kushina noticed his tone, she just looked at him.
"How many people tried adopting him?"
"Only 4. Hikari Hyuuga, Mikoto Uchiha, Shikaku Nara, and myself. Other than that, no one even came close to even trying. Anko was the only one to be able to get him into her home, thus bypassing the law." Kakashi said, shocking Kushina.
"I'm not his guardian, merely like his sister. I already knew of the law saying he couldn't be adopted, so I went for the next best thing. I took him in as if he were my brother, not a son. For this reason, the council couldn't get me with that law, and there was nothing saying he couldn't stay as a brother. Adoption was not part of it, and since you are here, and his birth mother to boot, he can live with you. I just ask for one thing." Anko said.
Kushina raised an eyebrow. "I'd like to keep him as a brother. Whether by blood or not, he and I are family. That much has been proven several times over. That is all I ask."
Kakashi was in shock. "You would stay with him, even if you don't have to?"
"I didn't take him in because I had to in the first place. I took him in because I wanted to. I saw myself in him. Someone the village hated for something out of their control, and they had no idea about. I have only proven my point that I want to stay with him as a sister, as we have been. That's it. There's no other motive behind this. I don't want to see him go at the world on his own, when I could easily help him." Anko said, determination flowing through her words.
Kushina looked at her and nodded. "You know what Anko? I think that would be a good idea. However, in your last message to me, you said you along with someone named Akane was training him. I already know who Akane is, as well."
"They have talked about someone named Akane, but I'm not completely sure who it is, seeing as nobody but Anko has gotten close enough to him to be a friend." Kakashi said. Naruto looked at Anko.
"Are you sure about that, Naruto? Do you really think it could work out?" Anko asked, causing the other 2 to look at her.
"I don't really see why not. I mean, my mother would know about Akane soon, and the cyclops over there is a family friend, apparently, so he could probably keep a few secrets on this." Naruto said. Kakashi and Kushina looked at each other and then back at him.
"I don't intend on saying a word if you don't want me to." Kakashi said. "I have to honor my Sensei, and if that means keeping this a secret from the Hokage, I will do so."
"Also, I'm curious as to how you had become friends with Akane." Kushina said.
"Well, nee-san, why don't you explain how to get there, while I get everything ready?" Naruto asked, getting a nod. He then started to meditate.
-Naruto's Mindscape-
Naruto found himself right outside of the cottage once again. "Naruto, are you sure that it's a good idea to trust them with this?"
"Someone has to know the true story of what happened. My mother especially. If Kakashi does reveal it, then I'd let you take care of him." Naruto replied. "Still, I don't think he would go against a promise he would have made to my father to protect me. If he told anyone about you and me being friends, he would be betraying that trust, thus breaking the promise he made. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that when one makes a promise to a friend, they will keep it."
"Still, I don't think it's a good idea."
"We'll talk on this later. The others should be getting here soon." Naruto said.
On cue, Kakashi, Kushina and Anko were right there in front of them. "Welcome to my mindscape."
"Anko, I noticed you were not really sure about doing this. I am not either." Akane said.
"I didn't think you would like this, either. So you can understand why, I guess." Anko replied getting a nod in response.
Kushina and Kakashi looked at the Red head in front of them. Kushina was the first to speak. "Naruto, who is this?"
"This is Akane Kitsune. One of my senseis. She's also a good friend of both me and Anko." was his reply.
"Naruto-kun has asked me to tell you the full story of what happened that day. I will admit you wouldn't believe me if I told you, but he seems to trust you. He did say that if Kakashi reveals what you hear in this place, he would let me tear him apart."
"He did?" Kushina raised an eyebrow.
"Yes, mom. I did. I figure that if he was truly a family friend, he'd keep it a secret. However, it's better safe than sorry." Naruto said. Kakashi nodded. "I understand where you're coming from. As I said out there, I have no intentions of revealing any secrets of yours without your permission. This is not because of who you are, but the fact that I was close friends with both your parents, and actually being taught by one of them. I also realize that with a life such as yours so far, you'd need to know you can trust someone before you actually do. So I already understand why you would say something like that."
Akane raised an eyebrow, still in human form. "Well then, here is the story from start to finish, as I saw it. This goes to a few hours before the attack."
Akane explained everything in great detail from the point she was summoned, to the point she was sealed. "I am still grateful to the Yondaime for stopping me. He could've tried to kill me, but instead he sealed me. Being out of control means I couldn't do a thing to stop myself. If there's someone I want to kill right now, it is Madara. I would not dream of attacking this place, unless I had no choice, or they killed Naruto. After which, I would unleash a rampage the likes of which dwarfed the one that day. However, that is only if he does die before his time. Only then would I attack. If he releases me, that is his decision."
Akane sighed before continuing. "I know he will come after me again. When he does, I want him to be ready. That is one reason I wanted to train him. Another is to make up for what I did, regardless of the fact I wasn't in control. Still, even if he wanted to, I would suggest he wait until Madara is truly dead, before he does so. When that happens, we can all live in peace. If I need to leave the village, I will at that point."
Kushina and Kakashi were think over what she had just said. "Okay, a few questions. First off, if Madara is dead, how can he summon you in the first place?"
"Of that, I am not sure. I do know it was him, though. He is the only human that truly smells like a demon, and still have a Human Aura. This wasn't the first time it happened either. It also happened at the place now known as The Valley of the End. That was the fight between your Shodaime Hokage, and Madara himself. I don't know the specifics of that one, but I remembered being forced out of it by Hashirama. Together we took down Madara. He didn't die, as I now know. Someone has to finish the job Hashirama and I started all those years ago. For that very reason, makes 3 reasons for me wanting to train him. I am even training him in the Taijutsu Style of the Kitsune. I wanted him known as the Kitsune Warrior, but that choice is up to him."
"Akane, I told you. I will take him out. I know it's not going to be easy if he survived a fight against both you and the Shodaime, but that's the beauty of it. It means that there is someone that could be highly challenging. However, he let his arrogance get to his head, and turned it into experience." Naruto said.
"He won't be easy to beat. You do realize that right?" Kushina asked. Naruto nodded. Kakashi was staring at him.
"Naruto, I'm going to be straight up and say it. You sounded like your father right then and there."
Naruto looked at him, and smiled nervously, while scratching the back of his head. "That settles it. He is definitely yours and Minato-sensei's son. There is no doubt in my mind on this any longer. I just hope he didn't inherit your temper, Kushina. Otherwise..." Kakashi shuddered. "That wouldn't be a pretty sight."
Kushina glared at him. "I'm only speaking the truth here. You'd kill anyone that royally pissed you off."
Kushina softened her glare. "Come to think of it, you're right. However, right now, my son needs me. If someone goes after him, I will go after them. No one messes with my family, and gets away with it. Also, has Danzou tried recruiting him?"
Kakashi shrugged. "I couldn't say for sure. I'm never present at the council meetings. You'd have to ask Lord Hokage about that."
Kushina sighed. "Well, you all know that this kind of information will not get out. No one in the village would dare interrogate me. They know better."
"Ain't that the truth." Kakashi said.
Anko, Akane, and Naruto nodded. "If you tell anyone this, remember the consequences."
"Akane, you won't have to go after them, because I will myself. Is there anyone else who knows?" Kushina asked.
"The Hokage might have figured it out by now, with the hints I gave him. However, I have a feeling he doesn't know the full story. He did say he was happy about the paperwork regarding Naruto living with me." Anko said.
To say Kakashi and Kushina were shocked would be like saying Jiraiya is a pervert. Huge understatement.
Kakashi was the first to shake off the feeling. "If he was actually happy to do paperwork for something, that means it's something he has wanted more than his own life but could never get."
Naruto, Akane, and Anko were surprised. Kushina simply nodded. "I'm basically speechless at that. After all, he does hate paperwork with a passion."
"Well, that's all I have to say about me. There's not much else to be known, and he could tell you himself, as it is about his training. I still intend on giving him advice when he needs it, and he does seem to be able to sense Chakra Flow."
Kushina looked at her. "That would be because of me. It's in my blood, just like reading and interpreting Seals. However, that I would have to train him in myself. The Uzumaki clan was known for their seal making, along with the ability to hide their naturally large reserves of Chakra, and their ability with a sword. It's not widely known that we can sense Chakra Flow."
"Well, that makes sense, I guess. I don't know everything about Seals, I'll admit. However, when it comes to curses and barriers, I'm better than the Nidaime Hokage is with Water Style Jutsu. I'm that good with it." Akane said.
Anko looked at Akane. "Why didn't you say anything sooner? I would have had you take a look at the one I have."
"Sorry, I guess it's only because you didn't ask. Then again, I didn't realize you even had one."
Anko just sighed. "You think you could take a look at it now?"
"Why not? If it's to help a friend of Naruto, I'm good with it."
"Mom, I have a feeling that the Old man would want to see you. At least to know why you came back. We'll be here for now. We're going to find a way to get rid of that Curse. When we do, we'd have to rest up, because it might take a while." Naruto said.
Kushina and Kakashi nodded. "Uhh, how do we leave here?"
"I think I can help with that." Naruto closed his eyes. Kushina and Kakashi were engulfed in a light. "Later." The light died and they were gone.
"Okay, I'll be meditating over here. If you need me, give me a holler." Naruto said as he sat down a bit away.
-with Kushina-
Kushina and Kakashi opened their eyes. "Did he just force us out of his mind?" Kushina asked.
"Well, we didn't know how to get out ourselves. We'd have to ask Anko how to later on." Kakashi replied, as they both nodded.
"He said he'd be here, and I will believe him for now. Let's go." Kushina said, as they both shunshin'ed out.
-Hokage's tower-
He had just gotten a report that Kushina had returned. Kushina and Kakashi both ended up in his office as no one else was.
"Hiruzen." Kushina said.
"Kushina? So that report was true. Might I ask why you are back?"
"My son is alive, and I intend on taking care of him. Anyone on the council says otherwise, I'll chop off an arm, leg, or for the males, their jewels." Kushina replied.
Sarutobi sweatdropped. "You haven't changed one bit, Kushina. In fact, I'm glad you're back."
"I already know the full situation, and met with my son. He told me of what he's been doing so far, and the reasons behind it. I'm not saying anything about it to you, so don't bother asking. That kind of stuff will be kept in the family alone." Kushina's tone said she doesn't care what would happen, she'd hold it to that, and leave it there.
Sarutobi nodded. "I actually know more than Naruto probably thinks."
"He's aware you have probably figured out most of it. However, there are things not even you could figure out. Those are the things I still don't intend on letting you know." Kushina said.
"And I don't intend on asking. The council will not be happy to hear he has living relatives. I'm tempted to call one and rub it in their faces." Sarutobi said, earning a smirk from Kushina and a chuckle from Kakashi.
"This I'd love to see." Kakashi said, Kushina nodding in agreement. "Shall we call him up here and start it?"
Kushina shook her head. "We should wait before that. First off, how much do you know?"
Sarutobi answered the question, leaving most of it to deduction. "Well, you're right on most of it. However, there is one bit that you should know. Akane is, in fact, the Kyuubi. I know this for a fact, already. That's not what I wanted to say, though. She is currently trying to figure out the mechanics behind the mark on Anko. If what she told me about her skills with them, she should be able to figure out how to remove it. That's what they're doing right now, and that's why I said to wait."
Sarutobi nodded.
-Naruto's mindscape-
Anko was still sitting down while Akane looked at it. "I got it down. Do you mind if I start now?"
"The sooner the better." Anko replied. Akane nodded.
"Thing is, in order to do this properly, I'll be needing Naruto's help."
"Do I even want to know?"
"In order for this to work successfully, I need to get rid of the corrosion induced by the mark itself. Then we have to get rid of the mark on your body itself. If I just get rid of it here, the corrosion can come back. That's the main problem here."
"So, in other words, Naruto and you have to work together to get everything done in a certain time frame. What exactly is the time limit for it?"
"I'd say about 2 minutes tops. Not much time to do so, and then the corrosion may continue."
Naruto opened up his eyes. "Akane I think I have an idea. Is it possible for me to leave the Mindscape with her staying in here? This way, I can work on the mark on the body, while you work on the corrosion. We do both of them at the same time, and we can get it done faster."
Akane looked in thought. "I'm not sure. We'd have to try that out. If you leave though, it's more likely anyone that isn't a resident here will leave. Before I start on this end, we should try that out."
Naruto glowed and left, Anko didn't leave, however. "Looks like it is possible. Let's get to it."
"Remember, this is going to hurt a lot. So don't say I didn't warn you."
Akane started going through some handsigns. She hit the mark with both palms. Anko screamed.
-outside-
Naruto did the same handsigns that Akane did, and followed suit with both palms. After about 30 seconds, the mark itself had disappeared from the body, while Akane was still getting rid of the corrosive Chakra. 'Akane, the mark is gone on the body. How's it going on your end?"
"Almost done here. Got a little bit left. Give me a few seconds. You might want to make a hole where the mark was."
'No need. There are already 2 holes there. Purple blood is seeping out of it, and dissolving before it hits the ground.'
"Got it. Keep a close eye on the body, and if she goes pale, then let me know."
'Roger.'
20 seconds later, Anko opened her eyes, and felt her neck. She felt both holes there, but they were closing up fast. "Where did those holes come from?"
Naruto smiled. "They opened up the moment the mark left your body. Purple blood was pouring out of it, meaning that was the main problem."
"Kid, I'm done on this end. Damn, that was exhausting."
Naruto mentally nodded. 'Get some rest then. I won't be training for a bit, so you can rest easy for that time.'
"Thank you."
Naruto turned his attention to Anko. "It's all done. I just got confirmation from Akane. It's all gone. The only thing connecting you to that snake bastard is that snake contract you told me about."
Anko looked at him and saw the seriousness in his eyes. In turn, her eyes widened, and hugged him. She was crying, but not tears of sorrow. She was happy. Her words were slurred, so he couldn't make them out easily. "Don't worry about a thing. Nothing will get me to hate you. You of all people should know I consider you family, and I help my family and friends."
Anko released her embrace and smiled at him, tears still streaming down her face. "I'm not sad, disappointed, or anything like that. I'm just... happy." Anko did something that surprised them both. She kissed him. It was on the cheek, but it was still a kiss.
Naruto, in turn, blushed. He tried forming words, but failed. Anko giggled at his reaction. "Don't Naruto-niisan. You're not the target of my love, but you're still my brother. I can do that."
Naruto shook his head to clear his thoughts. "Sorry, I just didn't think you'd ever do something like that. You kind of surprised me."
Anko just nodded, and sat down next to the tree. Naruto sat next to the same tree.
-with Kushina-
"And that's the full story." Kushina said. She had just explained the full predicament of Naruto and Anko, and explained the reasons Anko gave.
Sarutobi was in thought. "Do you really wish to do this? I mean, Anko is a part of the Mitarashi clan."
"They aren't a clan of Shinobi, and they also seem to have hated her. They never liked her much, and my son is close to her. You should know that better than anyone." Kushina replied. Kakashi was still present.
"I do know, and I was making sure. I would love nothing more than to keep a smile on Naruto's face. That's why I was more than willing to like the paperwork for him to live with Anko. In fact, I was about ready to rub it in the face of the Council, but I'm actually glad I haven't yet. This kind of information is simply gold, and will make even more material to rub in their faces. I'm actually happier now than I was when I first became Hokage, and didn't know the danger of paperwork... or it's involvement in my position. Yes, I was excited. I haven't felt that way in a long time."
Kushina and Kakashi nodded. "I see. I think we should wait until tomorrow before we do so. Just to rub it in, we're going to have a field day. I know I am." Kushina said, a devious smirk appearing on her face, Kakashi and Sarutobi both saw the smirk and cringed.
"Kushina, I don't think it's a good idea to kill them... Danzou, on the other hand, I wouldn't mind." Sarutobi said. "He's been wanting to try to train Naruto for a year now. I wouldn't allow it, and you know why."
"I know Danzou would try that. He's a Jinchuuriki, and my son. Once he finds that out, and who his father is, he would've wanted my son as his weapon. Now that I'm here, he won't get the chance." Kushina said with a cold tone.
"I feel sorry for him already. I can only imagine what you're going to do to that war hawk bastard." Kakashi said. "Just leave some of him for me. I want a shot at him myself."
Kushina looked at Kakashi and saw he was deadly serious. Emphasis on deadly. "That makes 2. I wonder if Hikari and and Mikoto would want to join in for that?"
"I wouldn't put it past them. After all, they are your friends, and the only ones who truly knew he was your son. One of the many reasons they wanted to adopt them. Damn council never gave him a chance." Sarutobi said. "You said Naruto and Akane were trying to figure out how to get rid of that curse Anko had, right?"
Kushina nodded. "Why do you ask?"
Sarutobi looked at his Crystal Ball. They were talking while sitting next to a tree. "It would seem like they are done with it. I do see evidence of Anko crying, but as to whether it was from pain, happiness it's gone, or sadness it couldn't be removed, I can't say. Although, the smile on her face says it could have been happiness."
Kushina looked at Kakashi. "I'll go check on him. I do know a bit of Telepathy, thanks to Inoichi. I could tell Kakashi the result, and he could tell you. If it's gone, I believe that we could rub something else in their face. The only one to be able to remove the Curse Mark from Orochimaru." Kushina shunshin'ed out.
"That woman is considered a menace to the council, but that's why I like her. She doesn't give a shit about them, and I tend to agree." Sarutobi said, a smirk on his wrinkled face. "One question. Why did you remove your mask in front of her?"
"I didn't go in there on orders. I saw her, and wanted to talk to her. I already know who his parents are, as she told me. Still, I could figure out his father, seeing as he is basically a carbon copy of Minato-sensei with whisker marks." Kakashi replied. "I shall put it back on now."
-with Naruto-
Kushina landed right in front of her son and Anko.
"Oh, hi mom. Guess what?"
"You already figured out how to get rid of it, didn't you?" Kushina asked.
Naruto nodded. Anko spoke up. "It hurt like hell, and on 2 fronts at that."
"2 fronts? How?" Kushina asked.
"Akane worked on the corrosion it brought while I was working on the mark on the body itself. You don't really expect something like that to be painless do you?" Naruto asked, eyebrow raised.
Kushina looked at him and nodded. "Well, that makes 3 things to rub in the face of the council."
Anko looked at her. "3? I only see 2."
"One is you getting around a law preventing anyone from adopting him. Two, the fact that I am his mother, and Three the fact he is the only one to be able to remove the Curse Mark Orochimaru gave you, when it was said that it couldn't be removed. 3 things to rub in their face, and you can see why I so want to do that right now." Kushina said.
Naruto and Anko looked at each other, then at Kushina. "You know? Why don't we do that right now? I'd love to see the look on their faces when they find out that the one the fear and hate so much they were willing to kill him, do things that not even they themselves could do, one. Two, that same person has a Bad-ass for a mother that would easily kill them if angered." Kushina looked at him surprised. "And finally, see some grounds to leave me alone, and living. A 3-fold win for us. I also doubt they'd mess with Anko as well, meaning 4 wins for us."
Kushina just smiled. "Well, there is still one person on the Council I am going to kill for wanting to turn you into an emotionless drone, as his personal weapon. That's something I'm not gonna just let it slide. First off, I think you'd be hungry. You ever been to Ichiraku's?"
Naruto and Anko looked at her. "We've been sticking to the Dango shop. Anko is actually accepted there, and is on good terms with them. Through her, I got on good terms with them pretty quickly."
Kushina looked at Anko with a bit of pride. "You managed to get someone else to like him, regardless of what he is. I'm glad I convinced Hiruzen to let you stay with us. You're a good friend, and would make a good older sister for him." Anko nodded. "Also, I'm good friends with Teuchi, the owner of Ichiraku's Ramen stand. You could say they have the best Ramen anywhere in the Elemental countries, ever since Whirlpool Village was destroyed."
Naruto simply nodded. "Okay, but only if Anko-neechan comes as well."
"I wouldn't have it any other way." Kushina said. The 3 of them went off.
Kushina sent a message to Kakashi, who then relayed it to Sarutobi, who nodded.
There will be a council meeting the next morning for matters that would be kept secret until that point. Sarutobi got up, and left to head to Ichiraku's himself.
-Ichiraku's Ramen Stand-
Naruto, Anko and Kushina had just arrived. "Hey, Teuchi. It's been a while." Kushina said as she said down next to Anko and Naruto. An old man behind the counter looked at them.
"Ah, Kushina. It's been what? 4, 5 years?"
"Something like that. When I first heard my son was dead, I couldn't take it and left. I finally found out I was told wrong, and happen to be willing to kill the one that told me that." Kushina said, causing Teuchi to shiver.
"Glad I'm not the one who said that. By the way, who are the kids? One looks just like Minato." Teuchi asked.
"This is Naruto. He's my son." Kushina placed a hand on his head. "He found a friend in Anko over here," She pointed to Anko. "and they see each other as siblings, even if she isn't my true daughter."
Teuchi looked at them both. "Well, if you consider them family, so do I. You want the usual?"
Kushina nodded. "Also, you might want to give my son some Miso ramen. That is on the average of the scale, in my opinion." Teuchi nodded. "Alright, 4 Miso, 2 pork, and 1 Vegetable Ramen, coming up."
Anko looked at them. "You think you can make another pork for me?" Teuchi nodded.
Sarutobi came in. "I got the news. And he does have a point, Kushina."
Kushina didn't even bother to look at him. "I know, that's why I told you that. Still, he won't be training physically for a while. There is a lot more he needs to learn in other skills. Still, even at his age, Using Shadow Clones is a bit of a surprise."
Sarutobi nodded. "Don't I know it. The first time I saw it was right before you had come back."
Naruto looked up. "Akane is the one to teach me that. It's been helping me out a lot with training."
Sarutobi looked at him. "I can't believe she taught you that at such a young age. Why would she even bother?"
Kushina just nodded. "I actually see why. Regardless of the fact he is only 4, almost 5, he has more Chakra on his own than the average Genin. Uzumaki Clan thing, I guess."
"Actually, a few weeks back she said it was about Average Chuunin levels, without her's in the mix." Naruto replied. "I guess you can say I have a lot more Chakra than most my age."
Kushina nodded. "I guess that's to be expected." She had just finished her last bowl of Ramen. "Uzumaki Clan members always have a high amount of chakra, and from what I know, so does the Namikaze Clan. I guess that attributes to that."
Teuchi looked at her. "It makes sense. If you want anything else, give me a holler."
They all nodded. Sarutobi spoke. "Kushina, I have told Kakashi to let the Clan heads know about the council meeting tomorrow morning. Your arrival should be kept secret until then. I want them to be scared out of their wits about your arrival."
Kushina nodded. "That makes it all the better. I have a feeling that he will give Mikoto and Hikari a little hint. If he does, then I can almost guarantee they will come to you wondering what the hell was going on."
Naruto looked at his mother confused. "Mom?"
"They're old friends of mine, and my teammates when I was a Genin. Still, I'll be sticking to the Forest until that time. You might want to tell Izumo and Kotetsu that little detail. I almost took out Izumo's head for insulting my son." Kushina said, a smirk on her face.
Sarutobi nodded. "So, tomorrow at 0900, in the council's chambers. Your faces will be hidden, so they don't realize who you are... Except maybe Hiashi, but that's only if he uses the Byakugan."
They all nodded. Naruto already knew of the bloodlines in the village, so he wasn't surprised. "Well, I should get going. Also, when do you think Naruto will be going for the Academy?" Sarutobi asked.
"No earlier than 7 years old. Don't want a Genin so young, regardless of the fact he'd be past Chuunin at that point." Kushina said. Anko and Naruto nodded at that. "I take it you don't want me going all out during the Academy?"
Kushina nodded. "That's right. If you show off everything you have, it defeats the purpose of being a Ninja. It also shows a bit of Arrogance, which is never a good thing."
Naruto nodded. "I know that much. Akane-chan told me the same. Arrogance and acting like you're all high and mighty will lead to one's downfall."
Kushina and Sarutobi looked at him. "Akane actually said that? Powerful as she is?"
Naruto nodded at his mother. "She knows the effects of arrogance, ignorance, and hates them both with her entire being, as she has said multiple times. I sometimes wonder why she hates ignorance, but that thought always returns to those she has to have been sealed in."
Kushina nodded at that. "Makes sense. I'll be heading back to the forest. Anko, you mind having him stay at your place tonight? I know he feels comfortable with you, and would probably take it as well."
Naruto's eyes widened. "I'm only saying this for tonight. As for tomorrow, she will be moving in with us. You can thank the Hokage for that. I still can't have my presence known until then. So I'll have to stay at the forest."
"Too late, Kushina." A voice said behind her. How she missed them, she had no idea.
She turned around, looking at two of her best friends before she left. "Please, don't be mad at for leaving."
They both hugged her, right in front of Naruto and Anko. Sarutobi had left sometime during that talk.
"Girls, I have to keep my arrival a secret. I want to surprise the council tomorrow morning, making them shake in their boots." Kushina said. "Also, I heard you couldn't adopt my son."
"It's the Civilian council's fault. If not for them, he would have moved in with either one of us, or Shikaku. You know that right?" A woman with white eyes said.
"Yes, I know Hikari. Among my friends, you two I trust more than the rest. I am a little pissed at the village for attacking my son, but even more pissed at Danzou for wanting to recruit him." Kushina said, making smirks appear on both women's faces.
"I was just about to suggest just that. Any idea on how to do it?" The Raven haired one asked. She had Onyx eyes. "That's something I intend to figure out, Mikoto. If you want in on it, you'll have to wait and see what I come up with. I do remember the Telepathy Jutsu from Inoichi. I could give you the details that way."
They both nodded. "I'm looking forward to it, Kushina. That man has done wrong to your only son. It's only natural we'd want to help you out with this." Mikoto said, while Hikari nodded in agreement.
"Well, I have Kakashi to put in there, as well. So you see where I'm going with this? We have 3 women, and one of the most Dangerous Jounin in the village, all being pissed off at one person." Kushina said. "What do you think would happen with all of that?"
Naruto and Anko had their eyes wide. Anko because she knew something that bad would not be easily repaired. Naruto, because Akane told him how bad a pissed off woman can get. He started cringing at the thought. "I, uh, got to go. Sorry, mom. I'll talk to you later!" Naruto ran off scared as hell.
"What did I do wrong there?" Kushina asked no one in particular. Mikoto and Hikari shrugged.
Anko stood forward. "Thank Akane for that. He knows not to be near a pissed off woman. Especially 3 pissed off Kunoichi, who could kill if provoked. You see where that came from? One slip up, and he could easily be hurt, mangled, or worse."
"That's what was going through his mind?" Mikoto asked, earning a nod. "At least, that's what I think. Although, he may have misinterpreted it as when they are pissed off at anyone, not just him. I think I'll have to find out his reasons, and let him know what should and shouldn't bother him." Anko said as she began to walk off.
"She'll be a somewhat good match for him one day, don't you think Kushina?" Mikoto asked.
Kushina shook her head. "They see each other as siblings, not friends. If they went farther than friends, and she became his girlfriend, I would be surprised."
-with Anko-
Anko had just arrived on top of the Hokage Stone faces. Right on top of his father's, the Yondaime, head. She found Naruto sitting there, still somewhat scared. "Hey, nii-san. What's wrong?"
"Akane told me how dangerous an angered woman is. Knowing my mother, she would probably kill anyone she was pissed off at. I, uh, left so I don't get caught in the crossfire." Naruto said.
"Well, something you should know about that." Anko said, sitting next to him. "That danger is only present if they are angry at you. Their anger is on that Danzou guy. I can almost guarantee that he won't survive tomorrows council. You are her son, and him going after you is what is pissing her off. She won't go after you, of that I'm certain."
Naruto noticeably calmed down. "Thanks nee-chan."
"Don't mention it. Now, you gonna stay up here all night, or do you wanna get home? It is getting late." Anko asked, getting a nod in response. "Then let's go. You might feel like you want to avoid your mother when she is the slightest bit angry, but unless it is directed at you, she wouldn't hurt you. I can say that for a fact."
Naruto nodded. He hadn't been attacked since he met up with Anko and had been staying with her. He knew he was safe with her.
-that night-
Anko and Naruto were getting ready for bed. People started knocking on the front door. Naruto and Anko tensed. They both got themselves ready for a fight, and the door was kicked open.
A number of villagers had come in ready to beat the hell out of Naruto, but Anko was a little faster and she knocked a few of them out. Naruto went ahead and hit a few more of them that went after Anko.
They covered each other every time they themselves couldn't, but didn't kill anyone. After about 5 minutes, 20 or so bodies lay on the floor, all unconscious, but none dead.
Anko looked at their handiwork. "Think we overdid it, Naruto?"
Naruto was panting. "No, I think they had it coming. Besides, none of them are really dead. Let's just tie them up and then take them to some trees in the nearby forests." Anko nodded.
"I agree. Let's do just that."
About 30 minutes later, they all woke up to find themselves strapped to a tree. A couple of them noticed Anko. "That's what you get for messing with my family. You're lucky we didn't kill you guys. Later." Anko disappeared from their sight.
Naruto and Anko were laughing at their faces when they got back to the house. "The look on their faces was gold!" Naruto said, still laughing.
Anko was laughing as well. "You know, that was probably the most fun I've had in my life."
They finally settled down enough to talk normally, and get some shut eye. Naruto noticed that there was someone else, ready to stop them before they had jumped into the fight, and then he stayed back.
An ANBU in a dog mask looked on the house in a smile. "Looks like they can take care of themselves just fine. I'll have to let Kushina know about this. Still the way Naruto was fighting was a little surprising. That must be the Kitsune style I heard about from Akane."
"and you'd be right on that, Kakashi." A voice said behind Kakashi. How he didn't realize who was there, he didn't know. Naruto was standing right behind him.
"I know you were watching, and about to step in. We showed you we can take care of ourselves." Naruto said.
"Yeah, I noticed. My mind is not yet at ease, but that's due to Danzou. You know why, right?" Kakashi said, mask still on. Naruto nodded.
"Well, that was just a bit of a show for you to watch, anyway. Aside from the fact Akane still needed to rest up from when we removed the mark from Anko-neechan, I felt like we needed to show you that."
Kakashi nodded. "Would you like me to tell your mother about this little incident? After all, you did take care of it yourself." Naruto shook his head.
"I don't think that will be necessary. If any council members don't make it tomorrow, that's because they are currently tied up in the forest to the south." Naruto said.
Kakashi nodded. "Well, I saw how well you work together with Anko. That was impressive. You fought together as if your minds were linked together. Mind if I ask how?"
Naruto smirked. "It's because we are. Akane set up a mental link for when the two of us are together, and the villagers attack either of us. This way, we can protect each other better, and also give them a pounding." Naruto's smirk widened. "By the way, this is a Shadow Clone." He went poof, leaving a dazed Kakashi behind.
"Okay, I seriously think Akane is a better teacher than even I am." Kakashi said, as he continued to watch the place for an incoming attack while they slept.
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Chapter 2 end!
Well, that's about all for this chapter.
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Later!