Crimson Wind Red Dream Chapter 12: Feelings, Dates and Finals, a naruto fanfic

A/N: Alright I am surprised I expected a few criticals from my last chapter but everyone seemed ok with it. I am glad I was a little harsh on the Hokage but he has been in power for a long time and Naruto was a little resentful from not having been told about his parents. Even if he was not supposed to know he should have at least mentioned his parents loved him and he would tell him when he was ready.

I don't like when Naruto puts blind faith in anyone other than someone he is in a relationship with to be honest. The stories where Naruto says, "I know he lies to me but he will tell me when I am ready." piss me off. That alone proves he is mature enough to handle the information. Plus how can he possibly put blind faith in someone who lies to him on a regular basis since the day he was born? I know it is for his safety to a point but if Naruto goes through his whole life being abused for something he thinks he did but didn't wouldn't that really screw him up in the head? Causes more harm than good in my opinion. Ok mini rant over!

Now for the long awaited finals to begin. I know I had quite a bit happen during the break. A lot of explanations and things. I had hoped to do a little more with Tsunade's mission but it felt appropriate to bring her in so I will probably be making a mission after the chuunin exams.

Sensor array was inspired by Pokemaster12 go check out his stories!

Now for the poll! Holy crap I love you guys I got such a turnout. I will probably be taking it down in a few days so those of you who haven't put your input hurry on over to my page!

"Dream as if you'll live forever, live as if you'll die today." -James Dean

Chapter 12- Feelings, Dates, and Finals

Timeskip 1 Week before the finals

Naruto was in his training grounds. He had been poring over the Hiraishin technique his father had left him. He knew it was going to be hard to do this technique but he was positive he could. The main problem was learning how to do the seal. It was very complex.

The basics of the seal was not summoning as most would assume. It was not even a modification on the shunshin to make it go faster. No it would bend space and put the point on his plain right next to where he wanted to go. In this case the kunai. It really was ingenius. To think about it easier his father compared it to a piece of paper in his notes about the technique. If you are on one end of the paper and your enemy is at the other end the seal bent the paper until you were standing next to your enemy. The ingenious part about it was the portal it opened for the user could not be used by anyone other than the one who made the seal because of the blood array set within it. This was all hidden by a minor seal which hid the original array with a fake one covering it. Only the user could disable it because of the blood array set within this one as well. Minato was not taking any chances that someone could possibly look at the array if he missed a Kunai. Though he was meticulous in collecting his kunai after a battle according to Kushina's diary.

Now where did the resistance seal come into play with all of this? Well the Yondaime had made that up so that way Jiraiya would not bug him about the seal. Others had attempted to steal seals from him but Minato had kept the Hiraishin scroll inside a blood seal on Kushina's body only unlockable with his blood. The resistance seal was important to toughen the body because not just anyone could do space-time jutsu but it was not totally necessary following a body hardening practice anyone could technically do the technique. Just to do it thousands of times, as Minato did to take down armies, did take quite the toll on the body.

He had already completed his own Hiraishin array. However, he had decided to take it a step further. He incorporated a sensor array within the seal so that he could sense chakra signatures within 10 feet of the kunai and he could determine where he should attack when he steps through the portal. He had a kunai ready for Mei if she should prove true to her intentions. He had added a warning seal on hers though. If she charged chakra into the seal, a seal would alert Naruto to her distress and he would know she needed his help.

The problem he was running into was the execution. His father had left him a few blank tri-pronged Kunai for him to practice with and left him blueprints for making some more for himself. The tri-pronged kunai were needed for the longer handle. The blades were sharper than most and cut easier a regular kunai with a longer handle would be unbalanced but with the added weight for the tri-prong it balanced it. He was wondering why his father had a yellow streak when he used it. He was pretty sure it had something to do with his elemental affinity but according to Jiraiya he was wind nature not lightning so why was the streak yellow? He decided to ask Jiraiya, as much as he disliked the idea of going to the pervert for help, he was the only one with the knowledge to help him.

Jiraiya had not endeared himself to Naruto as of yet. To Naruto he did not even seem to be trying except that one time he came over to try and train him. He had offered the toad summoning contract but Naruto just summoned a 5 tailed Kitsune who simply beat the shit out of Jiraiya for leering at her. He had offered to help complete the Rasengan. Naruto had already attempted this and was sure he could finish the technique in a few days so he declined the offer and said if he needed help he would ask. Needless to say, two days later Naruto had a fully powered Fuuton: Rasengan usable in battle. It would take a few more seconds to form but it had twice the cutting power of the original. He had created his first S-rank Technique. Finally, he had attempted to offer his assistance on Hiraishin but Naruto had been in the middle of making his own seal and with that Jiraiya could not be able to help since it must be unique to each user. So, Jiraiya had done nothing else and sulked off at not being able to help his godson.

The village had been ecstatic to hear of Tsunade's return. No one attributed the return to Naruto but he did not care. He wanted the villagers to feel guilty but he was not going to grovel for their recognition anymore. Rumors had been floating about of her becoming the Godaime. Naruto hoped these were true. There was no one else really fit for the Kage hat until someone in his generation took it. The years in between the Sannin and now had not been too kind to Konoha. Any of their potential Kages had been ransacked by the previous war or the Kyuubi attack. Any of the few strong enough to claim the title had mental problems that took away from their candidacy. They had strong ninja, of that Naruto was sure, but their mental facilities had been damaged by the previous events.

Naruto was not aiming to be Hokage. He was hoping to lead a normal Jounin life. Take a few teams. Train them. Have kids. Then probably leave Konoha once he got to be older and protect his clan from the shadows. However, if the Hat was offered to him and he saw no one else fit to protect the village he would take the mantle up to protect the village he had declared his home. His people he might not care for but the village as a whole was his home no matter what he said he did not want it to suffer. He held little love for it but he did hold a sense of kinship with it as he had lived here his whole life.

Naruto sighed and decided to head inside. He was expecting Mei to show up in about 4 days considering the Finals were in a week. He really hoped she held actual feelings for him. She was another girl he could not seem to get out of his head. Ever since he had met her in the Hokage's office the day after he saved Kurenai he had her in the back of his mind. The same as Kurenai and Yugao when he finally met her.

Naruto went inside and decided to ask Katsumi something after taking a shower. His team had decided not to practice together since the finals were close and Shino and he might fight each other. Kurenai was out helping Hinata and Yugao was on patrol duty for today so it was just him and Katsumi on the grounds. He had been bouncing something around in his head ever since Mei had asked for a marriage.

He finished his shower and headed to the forest where Katsumi liked to sunbath in kit form. He had enjoyed her form when she would play around. He was capable of shapeshifting too but he was so used to his human form the fox form was a little less appealing. She was quite the little trickster in that form though. It seemed to bring her foxy qualities a little bit more to the surface. He walked into Katsumi's usual clearing to finding her with a ear cocked in his direction knowing he was coming.

"Katsumi-chan can I ask you something? I have a feeling you know something you didn't necessarily let on about." Naruto said.

Katsumi simply stretched and transformed into her human body and lay back out to sunbath a bit more with her bikini on. That had been quite the interesting time when Katsumi had transformed not wearing clothes. Naruto had almost fainted form the heavenly sight but he managed to retain himself to make her promise to wear at least underwear when she transformed back. Katsumi flicked her hand indicating she was listening as she sunbathed.

"Do you know why it is that I can't seem to get Mei-chan out of my head? Even when I was younger I would constantly find my thoughts drifting to her as they did to Kurenai and Yugao when I met them. Nothing perverted until recently but still. I never forgot their scent or their looks even if I did not see them for months or years at a time." Naruto said.

Katsumi looked at him and responded, "That's easy. It is your demonic traits. Once you met someone you considered mate material they stayed with you. Even at such a young age when a demon meets someone who will be a potential mate later on your body records their actions, scent, and body language so you can find them again at a later date. You were subconciously staking a claim on them even when you were that young. Our maturity comes fast and yours came faster still with your lifestyle. It was a kickstart when you came across that pheromone infested place when you were 7. Nothing came of it other than basically forcing your mind to accept Kurenai-chan and Mei-chan as potential mates before it went back dormant. That is not to say you did not develop the feelings on your own but your body accepted them as strong and they would bear healthy children."

Naruto blushed at himself for thinking that. "Well thanks for that. What would you say to going on a date when Mei-chan comes before the finals?"

Katsumi blinked and then launched herself at Naruto. She hugged him and looked right in his eyes, "Really?"

Naruto nodded and wrapped his arms around her waist, "Really."

Katsumi snuggled into Naruto a bit more and sighed happily as they sat in the clearing.

Naruto had left his compound in search of his godfather. He was pretty sure he would be around the bath houses but he decided to pay the old man a visit since he had not seen him since he returned Tsunade and Jiraiya could be out on a mission. So Naruto was making his way to the Hokage tower ignoring the glares sent his way when he bumped into Shino and Haku.

"Ohayo, Shino, Haku-chan." Naruto said.

Shino and Haku stopped staring at each other before looking at Naruto.

"Ohayo, Naruto-kun." Haku said smiling and leaning on Shino's arm.

"Ohayo, Naruto." Shino said in a almost happy voice.

"On a date?" Naruto asked.

Haku blushed but nodded. Naruto loved teasing her it was so easy to get a blush now!

"Oh and where might you be going?" Naruto asked.

Haku blushed and said, "Shino-kun won't tell me. He says it needs to be a surprise."

Naruto blinked before looking at his teammate. "Oho! A surprise huh? There isn't some ring being hidden is there?" smirking at Shino whose face went a little red.

Haku blushed and Shino said, "Well we mustn't be late Haku-chan. Goodbye Naruto." in a flustered voice.

Naruto chuckled and said, "Have a good date!" as he walked off leaving a blushing couple.

Naruto arrived at the Hokage tower around 3 that afternoon. He had enjoyed his little cuddling session with Katsumi and running into Shino and Haku put him in a really good mood. So he was humming a little song to himself as he walked into the Tower.

He came up to the Hokage office and asked the secretary when the Hokage would be available and she said he was in a meeting and that he would be done shortly. The secretary had long ago come to like Naruto. She had initially disliked Naruto but he proved himself well behaved and helped her whenever she would get rowdy people while he was waiting for the Hokage so she had come to appreciate him some.

Naruto sat and waited for the Hokage to finish his meeting. About 20 minutes passed and Naruto heard the door to the Hokage's office open and he stood up. Out walked Mei and her two bodyguards Ao and Chojuro. Naruto was a little taken aback before smiling and saying, "Ohayo Mei-chan."

Mei turned around from the secretary when she heard Naruto's voice, "Naruto-kun! Ohayo." she said exuberantly.

Naruto chuckled at her response hoping that was because she was glad to see him. "What are you doing here so early? The finals don't start for a week." he asked.

Mei blinked before saying, "I had some other business to attend to besides the finals and decided to spend some time within my Allies' village to get a feel for it and build a reputation." she had a strange glint in her eye when she said "other business" and Naruto placed it as want before she hid it behind her smile.

Naruto smiled at her and said, "Would this 'other business' include me?" he asked with a cheeky smile.

Chojuro snorted before being silenced by a death glare from Mei. "What ever would give you that idea Na-Ru-To-Kun?" she said seductively.

Naruto's smile widened at her banter as the secretary looked on with amusement at Naruto, "Oh I don't know... probably because I can smell you from down the road." he leaned into her ear to whisper. "I really hope that is your feelings I smell." he whispered huskily so no one else could hear.

Mei shivered at his words and felt a thrill run down her spine. "Kami I hit a gold mine! Thank you!"

Naruto smiled a true smile at Mei's reaction and said, "Where are you staying at? I believe the Hokage said we had some things to discuss if we wish for things to be mutually beneficial." Naruto turned business-like.

Mei turned to her Mizukage mode and replied, "At the Golden Leaf Hotel on Main street."

Naruto nodded and said, "Could I pick you up around 7 tonight for a date Mei-chan?"

Mei blushed slightly before saying, "That would be fine."

Naruto bowed slightly, "Then have a good day Mei-chan I shall see you in a few hours."

Mei bowed slightly as well and left the Tower with her guards. She had a date to get ready for.

Naruto walked into the Hokage's office to see three of the old man's KBs doing paperwork and the Sandaime waiting for Naruto. The Sandaime smiled at seeing Naruto and said, "Ah Naruto-kun what can I do for you today?"

Naruto smiled as well and said, "Well first off I just ran into Mei so no need to send ANBU to tell me she is in town. I have already made plans to see her later tonight."

The Sandaime nodded his head and said, "Okay was that it or were you coming to see me for a reason?"

Naruto smirked and said, "Well I need to see Jiraiya-san he had offered to help me with that technique and there is one part of the technique I can not seem to figure out. Also, do you know who used to make the weapon for the technique? I need to get some of my own."

The Sandaime furrowed his eyebrows and said, "You are only stuck on one part? That technique is quite complex Naruto-kun but Jiraiya is currently within the village. So you know where you could probably find him. Also, Tsunade wishes to speak with you. Apparently some things have come to her attention that she wishes to fix. As for the weapons, Higurashi used to make them but I am sure Kurisu could accomodate you since you have blueprints of it."

Naruto nodded, "Ok, I will go to Kurisu and I will talk to Tsunade tomorrow if the situation allows. I am assuming Jiraiya is somewhere near the bathouses at this point in the day?"

The Sandaime nodded and said, "Have a good day today Naruto-kun and I hope things go well tonight." with that Naruto left seeing his Jiji with a smile on his face.

Naruto had gone to Kurisu's shop and given him a copy of the blueprints to make the kunai. He had to explain his heritage and the reason he had the blueprints but he trusted Kurisu and since Kurisu was going to know Anko would be knocking down his door soon to talk to Kurenai and Yugao he was sure. It would work out well tonight to get Yugao and Kurenai with their friend again and give him the night to talk with Mei and Katsumi.

He was on the way to the bathouses to find Jiraiya. He walked into the vicinity and was merely waiting outside the springs before his enhanced hearing picked up a faint giggling sound to his right. Right outside the wall leading to the Female side of the onsen. He smirked and walked over next to where he heard the sound originated from. He heard a slight scribbling and another chuckle before he reached out and smacked his godfather on top of his head.

"Ouch!" Jiraiya said as he rubbed his newly formed lump on his head.

Naruto looked at his godfather and said, "I need your help with that could you please follow me?"

Jiraiya blinked before standing up and motioning Naruto to proceed. Naruto led his godfather to Training ground 43 a place very few would even venture to much less train in. He turned around and put a silencing barrier over the clearing and began his questions.

"Ok just to be safe what do you know of the technique?" Naruto asked.

Jiraiya scoffed and said, "I know only the makers of the seals can use it and that your father made it so only his bloodline could wield it when he made the seal. Any others the original seal work would not accept that person's blood. Other than that the mechanics of the technique I don't know but I do know how he activated it and executed it." (In other words he knows how it was executed by the Yondaime but not what the seal array is or how the technique actually works by bending space. Naruto does not have a Kekkai Genkai I thats why i said bloodline not Kekkai Genkai. Just to be clear!)

Naruto's eyes brightened. "Ok how did he activate and execute it. You can't help with really anything else in regards to the seal since you don't know it."

Jiraiya looked delighted he could help his godson finally. "Ok take a seat this won't be long but I would like to talk to you a little bit if you would give me the chance."

Naruto's eyes narrowed, "Don't try to hold the information from me in return for a converstion Jiraiya-san. That would be a bad move on your part. I can eventually figure this out you however rely on me to recover your relationship."

Jiraiya backpedaled. "Thats not what I was saying Naruto. I was going to tell you the information first but I want to talk with you without anyone else around."

Naruto's eyes softened a little. "Very Well Jiraiya-san."

Jiraiya said, "Just Jiraiya please Naruto? I don't really like formalities and I am more than just an acquataince at this point right?"

Naruto thought for a second and nodded, "Very well Jiraiya. You have earned at least that for wanting to talk to me without your previous information coming into play."

Jiraiya nodded happy for the drop in honorific, "Ok from what Minato told me of the technique he would charge his kunai with some chakra usually enough for about 10 jumps to it and throw the kunai. Once thrown he would wait for it to stop moving before engaging his lightning chakra."

Naruto interrupted. "I thought he was a wind type?"

Jiraiya nodded, "He was but he had a small affinity to lightning that not many knew about. He used the lightning chakra in case someone stepped over the kunai they would recieve a mild shock just enough to make them jump back so he didn't rematerialze on top of them. The seal took the lightning chakra and made the yellow flash for the technique thus earning him his nickname." Jiraiya ended his lecture on the technique.

Naruto nodded it made sense but with his sensor array upgrade he could use any chakra to charge the seal. "I guess that explains the chakra storage seal I couldn't figure out the reason for." he thought. He turned to Jiraiya and said, "Thank you. Now what would you like to talk about?"

Jiraiya's eyes brightened, "He probably thought I would not listen to him." Naruto thought. "I wanted to apologize for the mission to pick up Tsunade. I had not expected her to stay in town she usually leaves within 3-5 days of being spotted and she always knew when she was. I was honestly not thinking we would find her."

Naruto rolled his eyes, "Jiraiya even if she was not there you were not doing anything productive to the mission. Regardless of whether or not you have no reason to return speedily, I do. You should have taken this into account. Akatsuki is not going to wait around for you to find the information on them. Neither is Tsunade. If you did not act like a idiot half the time your spies would be twice as good."

Jiraiya's eyes widened, "How do you know of Akatsuki?"

Naruto's eyes widened as well, "Shit I did not mean to mention them."

"Best to tell him now Naruto-sama so that way he can help. He may be a horrible godfather but he is a great ninja. A powerful one at that. I can sense the sage chakra residue within his coils the toads have taught him well but he has not perfected it if he keeps some within him." Kamikaze said.

Naruto looked at Jiraiya and sighed, "What I say does not leave us? Not even the Hokage knows I know. I want him to believe that because if he does not or Tsunade believes I do not then it makes it easier for me to eliminate them when they show up. Very few could defeat me and even then those upper echelions will not leave the villages they are entrenched at. If the Hokage knew he would try to limit my movement and this puts the village and everyone in it at risk. Only you or I could defeat the stronger ones and the rest of the weaker ones would take 2-3 teams of ANBU to defeat. You know this."

Jiraiya thought about it for a few minutes before agreeing. "You are right the few I know about would rip anyone I know apart. Even you. But if you master that technique you will be hard to beat."

Naruto responded, "My speed surpasses the Yondaime's. I repeat ONLY the upper echelions stand a chance against me. Only the top 2 could defeat me if I had the Hiraishin at my disposal."

Jiraiya gaped at Naruto, "I have not seen you move at that speed and neither has anyone else within this village. It has not been recorded! How could you match your father at your age?"

Naruto smirked, "Deception is a ninja's best friend? How do you think I am at that speed think about what I took from Jiji when I was seven. Add that to my training regime."

Jiraiya thought for a moment before his eyes widened, "No! you have a resistance seal on you! What level are you at?"

Naruto smiled, "Wouldn't you like to know!"

Jiraiya scowled, "Dammit gaki this is serious."

Naruto's smile disappeared, "Tell you what. You help me kill some Akatsuki members and I will tell you. Specfically the zombie brothers are going to be a pain even for the two of us they have some freaky powers."

Jiraiya's scowl deepend before he said, "Fine I only know of them and Itachi Uchiha and Hoshigake Kisame."

Naruto frowned, "Your spies need to get better. There is also Akasuna no Sasori, Deidara from Iwa, A lady that uses origami for jutsu, and someone who is said to have powers equaling a God because he managed to fight Hanzo and win singlehandedly. There is also what appears to be a crazy person named Tobi but he seems more than he appears."

Jiraiya stood dumbstruck as Naruto managed to list all of the Akatsuki members when it took him 5 years to learn of the 4 he had. "Well that is some interesting group of people."

Naruto nodded, "Now if that is all I have a date in about an hour I need to get to."

Jiraiya smiled pervertedly, "Got to get with Kurenai-chan and Yugao-chan neh?"

Naruto shook his head, "Naw tonight its Katsumi-chan and Mei-chan."

Jiraiya shook his head and looked at Naruto. "Mei-chan?" he asked.

Naruto smirked, "The Mizukage."

Jiraiya's brain almost overloaded. "Good job Naruto!" he said holding up both thumbs while letting his nosebleed. He suddenly found himself flat on his ass.

"Don't think about my girlfriends like that again or next time it might be a Rasengan." Naruto warned his icy cold eyes staring down at Jiraiya.

Jiraiya merely nodded as Naruto walked off. What Jiraiya could not see was the smile on Naruto's face that he could rely on Jiraiya in helping him against Akatsuki. He wasn't really angry about Jiraiya's comments if anything it made him proud someone was proud of him. However, he was never going to let Jiraiya know that. He was sure Jiraiya only said those things because they were true. Naruto was not a pervert but he had to admit he had 4 of the most beautiful women on the planet who loved him. At least 3 who loved him and another he hoped did.

Naruto was dressing for his date. He had let Katsumi take the main house to freshen up after Anko had come banging on the door for Kurenai and Yugao. They had decided to reintroduce themselves to the bar and left Katsumi and Naruto to their date with Mei.

Naruto was in one of the adjoining houses to the main house. He had left Katsumi the room to freshen up for the date. He was wearing a kimono that was blue like his eyes only with little lightning bolts across his kimono. He had on a necklace with a moon pendant on it, a present from Yugao. As well as his usual smoke bomb earring was replaced by a crimson wind gust earring (Look up Mysterious Abyss Keyblade from Kingdom Hearts 2 and imagine the very end of the keyblade in earring form.) They had given these to him for the 6th month anniversary and he was wearing them to give him strength to talk to Mei tonight.

He walked into the entrance hall of the main compound and said, "Katsumi-chan are you ready?"

Katsumi's "One more Minute" turned into a full 10 but when Katsumi came down the stairs Naruto thought it more than worth the wait by the position of his jaw which was on the floor. Katsumi's dress screamed to be looked at but only those close to her would get the real treat. It was a yellow dress with a V showing the valley of her breasts to anyone close and tantalizing those from afar. The waist hugged her curves and led to a almost full skirt downwards but it had slits to reveal tantalizing sneak peeks at her legs and her anklet bracelet which had a crimson fox head on it.

Katsumi giggled at Naruto's expression. She had hoped to get such a reaction out of him. He had been nothing but a gentleman since she got out the seal but she had been worried about how she looked in front of him. It was the first time she worried about others' opinions but his meant a lot to her. So she was excited when she got the reaction she wanted. She giggled and said, "We should get going shouldn't we?"

Naruto started to move and responded, "Hai Hai!"

They set off to Mei's hotel to pick her up.

As they were walking Akiko came running up to Naruto with a scroll in her mouth. She handed it off to Naruto wagging her tails happily. "Very good Akiko-chan thnk you. Did you complete the prank I set up for you?" Naruto asked.

Akiko's eyes brightened and she said, "Yes! O Thank you that was one of the best pranks ever! My sis says she likes you and wants you to summon her for battle soon ok?" with that she poofed away.

Katsumi chuckled and said, "Seems you have quite the follower there. If I remember right her sister is Akemi one of the top ninjutsu specialists. A very powerful ally Naruto-kun." she cooed.

Naruto blushed but said, "Ok lets just get Mei-chan."

Naruto and Katsumi walked into the living room area of Mei's royal suite. She got such accomodations for being a foreign dignitary. They admired the place for about 5 minutes before Mei walked in. Naruto's jaw was almost dislocated at this point and he just stared. She had gone with a more traditional style Kimono. It was a lighter blue than his eyes with patterns of white flowers adorning the Kimono. It hugged all her curves showing off her womanly figure even some Kunoichi would kill for.

Mei licked her lips seeing Naruto's eyes roam her body. She had developed a strong attraction to the young man. She could go so far as to say she loved the man if she were questioned but she was unsure of his feelings beyond just lust. He was not one to engage in such a relationship without cause though, of that she was sure. She cleared her throat so they could get going.

Naruto snapped out of it and said, "Well let us go to the restaurant for a pleasurable night and perhaps a bit more." Holding out his arms for the ladies. Mei promptly grabbed his left arm as Katsumi occupied his right. They walked off to the Leaf Dragon.

Naruto and his dates got through the line and Maitre D' with no problems tonight. Tsukune had been the bouncer again and teased Naruto a bit but let them pass. As they sat there chewing their food Naruto told the story of how he saved the owner's life and how he helped with the down payment. He said he had a private table always and that he was always welcome. Mei made a few small comments but preferred to eat with little conversation. Katsumi was eating diligently since she already knew the story. Naruto was simply trying to lighten the mood and he succeeded when he made a joke. After a time they finished their meals and Naruto decided to get on with the main event.

"So girls what do you say we go to the club tonight?" Naruto asked.

Mei and Katsumi blinked before Katsumi spoke the problem, "Naruto-kun I would love to go but my outfit does not fit in at a club." Mei nodded her assent to such a thing.

Naruto smirked a bit, "So if you could change into something more comfortable you would go?" At their nods he produced two scrolls, "One scroll for each of you contains more comfortable clothing for tonight. We added rooms here so those high class people who wish to go somewhere more casual after this have a place to change before leaving."

Mei saw a chance to tease him. "So how did you get us clothes?"

Naruto blushed and said, "If we don't hurry we will miss the open mic! and don't ask me that please."

Mei pouted as Katsumi hurriedly grabbed the scroll and said, "Hurry up Mei-chan when Naruto sings it is heavenly! Your in for a treat."

Twenty minutes later saw Naruto, now in a crimson T-shirt and black pants, Katsumi, now in a yellow shirt with a white skirt cut just above mid-thigh, and Mei, now in a blue shirt with the same white skirt as Katsumi. The skirts allowed for tantaliazing views of creamy thigh skin but nothing important. The bouncer took one look at Katsumi and Mei and let the trio through the line no questions. They sidled over to a quieter booth after grabbing their food and proceeeded to make small talk waiting for their chance.

After about an hour, Naruto managed to catch a lull on the mic and made a band to play, "Mei-chan would you dance with me?" he asked.

Mei blushed but nodded and took Naruto's hand as Katsumi pouted before Naruto made a KB for her to dance with. The KBs started the song as Naruto and Mei slow danced in the middle of the floor. (I do not own this song or anything affiliated with it.)

I am a question to the world,
Not an answer to be heard.
All a moment that's held in your arms.
And what do you think you'd ever say?
I won't listen anyway…
You don't know me,
And I'll never be what you want me to be.

And what do you think you'd understand?
I'm a boy, no, I'm a man..
You can take me and throw me away.
And how can you learn what's never shown?
Yeah, you stand here on your own.
They don't know me 'cause I'm not here.

And I want a moment to be real,
Wanna touch things I don't feel,
Wanna hold on and feel I belong.
And how can the world want me to change,
They're the ones that stay the same.
The don't know me,
'Cause I'm not here.

The crowd was spellbound by the emotions coming from the KB band as Naruto danced with Mei. Naruto said to Mei, "This part is about you."

And you see the things they never see
All you wanted, I could be
Now you know me, and I'm not afraid
And I wanna tell you who I am
Can you help me be a man?
They can't break me
As long as I know who I am

Naruto kept dancing with Mei as the crowd started to tear up from the display.

They can't tell me who to be,
'Cause I'm not what they see.
And the world is still sleepin',
While I keep on dreamin' for me.
And their words are just whispers
And lies that I'll never believe.

And I want a moment to be real,
Wanna touch things I don't feel,
Wanna hold on and feel I belong.
And how can they say I never change
They're the ones that stay the same.
I'm the one now,
'Cause I'm still here.

I'm the one,
'Cause I'm still here.
I'm still here.
I'm still here.
I'm still here.

As the song faded away Naruto handed Mei off to a KB telling her they would talk later and taking Katsumi into his arms. The crowd had been crying and felt sorry for the heartfelt man whose clones where singing. The next song picked up. (I do not own this song either.)

Wise men say only fools rush in
but I can't help falling in love with you
Shall I stay
would it be a sin
If I can't help falling in love with you

Naruto looked deep into Katsumi's eyes as the next verse was sung.

Like a river flows surely to the sea
Darling so it goes
some things are meant to be
take my hand, take my whole life too
for I can't help falling in love with you

The crowd was spellbound as the clones poured love into the song.

Like a river flows surely to the sea
Darling so it goes
some things are meant to be
take my hand, take my whole life too
for I can't help falling in love with you
for I can't help falling in love with you

As the song faded Naruto, Katsumi, and Mei made their way away form the club as Naruto's KBs started to play Remember the Name.

Naruto led his dates to a secluded clearing and set up a silencing barrier around the clearing. The clearing had a perfect view of the moon when sitting by the lake that was few by the waterfall falling into it with a small creek leading away. Naruto asked the girls to sit down and they each did as Naruto turned back to them.

"Mei-chan I have something I must ask you to answer honestly, Do not lie. Be completely honest this will affect our entire relationship." At Mei's nod, Naruto uttered what had to be the most horrible words he had muttered to date. "Do you like me beyond a friend? Are you only using me for the Alliance or do you truly have feelings for me?" he hated having to ask and hated even more the hurt on her face but he had to make sure before telling her everything.

Mei was hurt that he would insinuate something like that but after seeing the hurt in his eyes her anger abated somewhat so she could answer clearly. "Yes Naruto-kun. Do you honeslty think I would wed a man simply for an alliance? You are kind, courageous, hold a terrible burden no one should ever have to, and still retain your ability to forgive even your worst enemies. According to your deeds and your heart there is no greater man in the Elemental Countries. I will marry you because I wish to not because I was forced!"

Naruto sighed in relief. "Then there are things you must know about me and my soon-to-be family, If you wish to end our relationship after my explanation I will not blame you. It all started one night when I was seven..." 2 Hours later "... So we brought Tsunade back and here we are." Katsumi and Naruto stood in all their glory in front of Mei.

Naruto held his breath waiting for her response. He was sure if she rejected him he would never be the same. He seemed fine with it but in reality it would tear him up inside. He knew he wished for this woman's love just as he wished for Kurenai's and Yugao's and Katsumi's. If he did not have them then it would kill him.

Katsumi watched Mei's face flicker. She knew Naruto would need her. If she rejected him it would tear Naruto badly. She had been ingrained in his demonic side at such a young age it would be hard to get over her rejection even if he did not love her. She looked as Mei opened her mouth to answer.

Mei opened her mouth and said, "So?"

Naruto blinked and released his breath. "So? what do you mean so?"

Mei looked at Naruto incredulously, "So? Your a Hanyou. So what. That does not change who you are fundamentally. You are still that same kind caring boy I met in the Hokage's office so many years ago and you are still the young man who appeared in my office a few months ago and swept into my hearth like your namesake suggests as a maelstrom. Most Importantly though, you are the man I am going to marry because he is Naruto Namikaze, the man I love."

Naruto started to cry and his loves wrapped him in a hug before he finished. "Thank you Mei-chan, My little demoness." he let his sobs subside and said, "Mei-chan would you like to come live in my compound for the next week to get used to your new roommates?" Mei nodded happily.

They shunshined to the hotel and after Mei had gotten her stuff and assured her guards she was safe they shunshined to the compound. Once they were in Naruto nervously looked at Mei and said, "Mei-chan you may choose any room you want..." he was going to finish when he was cut off.

Mei asked, "Which one is yours?"

Naruto blinked but showed her to his room and watched as she walked around, "Hmmm.. its kinda large but... I'll take it."

Naruto looked on owlishly as Mei went and changed into her nightclothes with Katsumi taking off to the closet to change. Naruto changed into his and picked up a pillow and a blanket to go to another room when Mei and Katsumi walked back out. Mei immediately said, "Where are you going?"

Naruto looked at her and said, "To another room this is yours."

Mei frowned and before Naruto could do anything Katsumi and Mei had him on the bed snuggling into his chest. "Oh! thats what you meant!" he said playing like he only now just got her ploy. "Goodnight, Misu-Tenshi (Mist Angel), Kouhi-sama(Queen)." with that they fell asleep.

Naruto woke the next day and left the girls to get acquainted by themselves. Kurenai and Yugao had joined them in bed when they had shown up later that night. Kurenai had taken his legs while Yugao had snuggled onto his stomach. Amazing how girls could contort to make a comfortable sleeping position on the one they wanted to be close to.

He had a appointment to keep with Tsunade. He remembered that the Sandaime had said she wanted to talk to him and he wanted to know if she was going to be Hokage. So he figured he would see what she wanted. If it was some medical thing he was not too keen on allowing Tsunade to check him over. He knew she was skilled and what not but he had gotten through 13 years without needing medical treatment and anything his body could not heal naturally would mean almost instant death at this point. However, these points were at the back of Naruto's mind as he thought, "I just don't like hospitals and I don't trust doctors they did more harm than good when I was younger."

Indeed when Naruto was younger the doctors would sometimes set his bones wrong, whether on purpose or accident Naruto could never find out, or dress his wounds sloppily and the only reason they would be changed was because of the Sandaime. He had learned this from his medical records which he had stolen when he was younger to test the medical facility defenses. Ever since then he had been wary of doctors and being touched by them in any sense of the term.

Naruto arrived at the Hospital which he had been told was taken over by Tsunade when she returned. So Naruto walked into the lobby and could already notice a difference. There was no doctors milling about as there had when he was younger. The nurses were all busy and it looked like it was being run 10 times more efficient. Naruto chuckled and walked up to the information desk, "Where is Tsunade-san's office?" he asked.

The receptionist looked up before scowling, "What do you want here?" she asked with a sneer.

Naruto sighed and turned on his blank mask, "I am here to see Tsunade-san she has requested my presence you don't want her hearing the reason I was not there was because you were unhelpful right?" he said in a monotone voice.

The receptionist backpedaled and said, "No of course not. Tsunade-sama's office is in the office wing top floor. Just follow this hallway and take a left at the end it will bring you to the elevator and take the top floor." After all, Tsunade's rage was legendary for someone who pissed her off.

Naruto grinned and said, "Thank you." then turned and walked down aforementioned hallway. He mused slightly while he walked and rode the elevator, enjoying the soothing music from the elevator he heard the telltale 'ding' as he reached his floor and stepped out of the elevator. He looked around and noticed that Shizune was sitting at the receptionist desk up here blocking the way to a door which had Tsunade Senju on the name plate.

Naruto turned to shizune and said, "Good morning Shizune-san how have you been?"

Shizune looked up and said, "Ah! Naruto-san. I've been good its nice to be able to sit down and not worry about debt collectors and actually lead a life. Thank you for bringing Tsunade-sama back this hospital was a mess!" she declared.

Naruto smiled slightly and said, "So.. is she in? I heard she wanted to talk to me and I have a question about her."

Shizune blniked before she said, "One minute, Tsunade-sama is not a morning person."

Naruto chuckled, "Ok Let me know when it is safe." and sat down in one of the waiting chairs.

A few minutes and some shouts out of the office later, Shizune came out and told Naruto Tsunade was ready to see him.

Naruto made his way into the office. Once he did he could smell the sake. He held his nose as he walked in and stood in front of Tsunade who was wearing her usual clothes and sitting behind a big desk with a few stacks of paperwork on it. The office was lightly furnished like the Hokage office. It had a small sofa and a coffee table along with a few chairs in front of the desk. Naruto took a chair in front of the desk still holding back his sense of smell.

"You wanted to see me Tsunade-san?" Naruto asked.

Tsunade looked at Naruto and began remembering what she had read about him. His life had been horrible. Bad doctors. Bad caretakers. Bad Teachers. Bad everything. NO one had cared for this person slightly and when Jiraiya told her he was his godfather he punched him so hard he couldn't breathe right for the next week. Her sensei had tried but he had been bogged down with paperwork. She felt pity for the boy who was sitting in front of her (Yes she sees him as a boy).

Naruto saw her eyes fill with pity. He scowled. "Don't pity me! I do not want nor need anyones pity. I have gone thirteen years without it and I do not need it now. If anything pity the poor fools within this village that will die because of their ignorance. Pity the ninja that die on a regular basis keeping this city safe, I do not need pity and am not someone who should be pitied. I am happy with my lot in life."

Tsunade blinked and hid her pity. That was one hell of a speech. He was more mature than she thought. "Ok well..." she fished some papers out.

Naruto waited patiently while Tsunade looked for something on her desk. He was pretty sure what this was about now. It was not going to end well for Tsunade and his relationship but he would let her ask and he would explain his reasoning. If she tried to force the issue he could easily leave.

Tsunade finally found what she was looking for and pulled it out with an 'ahah!' she set it down and opened it up. It was Naruto's medical file. "So I see you were here repeatedly when you were younger but you have not returned or seen a physician since you were 7 years old.(His sense tests were not considered going to the hospital)"

Naruto sighed, "Hai." he said. "Exactly what I thought."

Tsunade looked at Naruto and closed his file, "Well we need an up to date file about all of our ninja so I am going to need you to get a physical and some tests done on your blood."

Naruto frowned, "Anything else? and what tests exactly?"

Tsunade did not like that Naruto was questioning this in this manner, "No, nothing else, and the blood test is to see what we need to give you should you need a blood transfusion and to check your vitamins and the overall health of your body."

Naruto said, "Who would be doing these tests and the physical?"

Tsunade blinked and said, "A chosen doctor who holds nothing against you."

Naruto scowled, "I KNOW you requested all the information on me and you have my medical file right there! What exactly would make you think I would consent to these tests even if you would be doing the procedure yourself much less some random doctor who 'supposedly' holds no grudge against me?"

Naruto was fuming at this point. Were all the sannin morons? Serisouly it did not take common sense to know he would not like doctors touching him period.

Tsunade frowned, "Regardless you must have these done Naruto. I suppose I or Shizune could do it but you would have to wait quite a while we are busy cleaning up the hospital for when I take office."

Naruto smirked, "So I was right you gonna anounce yourself at the chuunin exams?"

Tsunade nodded and said, "Don't change the subject."

Naruto's smirk vanished and he looked at Tsunade, "I do not like doctors. I do not like being touched by random people. I have survived 6 years without a physical. My body will heal anything not completely fatal. There is almost no reason for this but if you can gain my trust I will consent to these tests. I have a severe phobia of doctors from my early years as you can guess from my file."

Tsunade frowned again, "Naruto this is needed!" she tried to reason.

Naruto shook his head, "I have been a genin almost 7 months now and not once have I reported for a injury like a cut or anything leading up to a broken bone. My body heals faster than any of your medical jutsu. I can survive a little longer without the physical." with that he turned away and said, "You can take this up with Jiji but he supported me while you were not here in regards to this request so I doubt he will change his mind but by all means give it a try." Naruto walked out of the office.

Timeskip Day of the Finals

All of the people were packed into the stadium. They were eager for the fight between Gaara and the Last Uchiha. The other fights just seemed like a formality to lead to that fight. Every daimyo and their retainers had come. The stadium was packed to the brim with people. The Konoha twelve that had not made it into the finals were all sitting in the same spot with their jounin sensei next to them. The clans all had their own special seating areas.

The Kage box had three seats open. One was for the Kazekage. Leader of Sunagakure and his chair was all the way on the right side. The Hokage's chair sat in the middle. Finally, The Mizukage's chair was on the left side of the hokage's. This signified their alliance with each other.

Shikamaru, Gaara, Kankuro, Bozu, Temari, Shino, and Neji were all standing in front of the original instructor. The sickly Hayate. Hayate looked a thte genin that were slouching and showing little pride, he spoke up. "You guys are the main attraction show some dignity."

A few of the genin straightened up but some just ignored him. He sighed.

The Hokage was sitting in his chair. He was relaxing. Today was the final day of his reign for the rest of his life. He was happy. The Kazekage walked up and said, "Greetings Hokage-san. There will be some interesting matchs will there not?"

The Hokage chuckled as he shook the man's hand to hide his surprise of the difference in his handshake. "Yes, Yes it will be there are two surprises planned for the audience here today though." Before the Kazekage could comment. Mei arrived and shook the Hokage's hand.

"Ah! Mizukage-sama, How good of you to join us. How was the royal suite I gave you while you stayed for the week?" The Sandaime questioned.

Mei giggled and said, "Oh! You know I did not even spend one night there Hokage-sama. I can not wait for these exams to begin. It is going to be extraordinary!"

The Hokage blinked and grinned, "Yes well let us get the show on the road then hmm?"

Hayate got the signal to begin and looked at the gennin. He noticed two were missing. He held out the sheet with the matchups. "Check your matches make sure you know who you are fighting against." he said through his coughs.

Neji looked around, "Seems Uzumaki-san has realized he is fated to lose."

Shikamaru turned to Neji and said, "You have no idea who you are trying to screw with Hyuuga-san."

Neji was taken aback by Shikamaru's turn of demeanor. "I would rather give up cloud watching in Konoha before even thinking of battling Naruto."

Just as he said this a vicious wind picked up within the stadium. It grew and grew until even those within the stands were covering their eyes to keep it from drying them out. Only Hiashi said, "Unbelievable." as he saw the chakra within the wind.

The wind suddenly died down and all of the competitors looked at where there was a small dust cloud rising form the ground and the person now standing in it. He had on a Haori with a Kyuubi being whipped around and seemingly protected by the wind. The Kyuubi was forefronted by two sowrds which crossed in a X pattern. Within the X pattern there were 4 kanji, One for Megami in the top V, one for Murasaki in the left V, one for Tenshi in the right V, and the last one was for Akuma (Demon) in the bottom V. He had on a crimson undershirt with black ANBU style pants and his sneaker looking shoes. He had his headband tied around his shoulder with the Namikaze crest on the other shoulder. His golden hair and blue eyes standing out for all to see.

"Ya miss me?" Naruto asked cheekily.

End A/N: And! I have finished this chapter and the finals begin next chapter. Sorry for Tsunade but he does not have a relationship with her. She will gain his trust and his respect as a Hokage. Currently she was trying to make things right from her side and it just backfired on her. Naruto does not hate her but he does not like her yet either. I always viewed Shikamaru as a avid friend when he considers someone to be his friend so that is why Shika seems ooc at the end. And I had the date all written out and everything with more details and the like but my comp destroyed it(cue anime tears) so I am sorry if it is not up to usual standards.

And! I have reached 100,000 words yay me!

Not bad for my first story even if most of it is just plot and romance. I am not much of an action writer as most of you have probably noticed by now.