...
Chapter 4
-dense forest-
A bunch of foxes with varying numbers of tails were gathered. "Alright, Kituno. Why the hell did you bother calling up the Kitsune Council? Don't you know that this is not something to use as a prank?" A fox with 8 tails flowing behind him said, completely annoyed.
"Sir, I have found excellent news about Lord Kyuubi." This caught everyone's attention. "Before you say this is some kind of joke on my part, I should tell you that we have 2 summoners now. One of which is a Jinchuuriki."
The others were silent, aside from the 8 tailed one. "Where did you hear this, and how come I haven't heard anything?"
"I was just summoned, and they signed the night before. His name is Naruto Uzumaki-Namikaze. The other one goes by the name of Hinata Hyuuga. Naruto is the one who summoned me, and told me himself that he was a Jinchuuriki of a Kitsune. There is only one that's been missing in the last 30 years, and he seems just barely 12 or 13 in human years. This led me to believe that he has Lord Kyuubi sealed within him. Then he told me himself when I asked where he was. The Phoenix Clan is already in the know." Kituno told them.
"We must find a way to help Lord Kyuubi!" One of the Kitsune shouted.
"I don't think it is necessary just yet. However, there is other news." Kituno said. "We have reason to believe that the scourge of the Bijuu has returned, and forced Lord Kyuubi to attack a village under his protection. As a result, he was sealed. Should this be true, and I believe it is, then it would be obvious that he's back with a vengeance."
"We must let the other Clans in the alliance know." The 8 tailed Kitsune said. "We will need all the help we can get."
"There was a Phoenix already there, along with a summoner for Dragons. The Phoenix Clan should be getting this same message from Kon of the Phoenix Clan. As for the Dragons, I believe we may have to let them know, but the others we should tell them." Kituno told them.
"Do you have a location for this summoner?" One of them, a 5 tail, asked.
"Konohagakure. They hate foxes, though, due to the damage that Lord Kyuubi has caused due to HIM. I figure I should warn you about that, should we go to him." Kituno warned.
"If he was forced to switch to Yoko status, then it would be no wonder that he had to be sealed. Do you know of which seal was used?" The 8 tails asked.
"No sir. I left as soon as I told Kon of the danger we are in. I didn't ask about the seal, but I know it's powerful."
They all nodded. "Have our messengers send word to our allies, along with the clans the Bijuu came from. They will all need to know. Kituno, since you have already met the summoners, take two others through the portal, and see them in person. We can waste no time in finding out what holds Lord Kyuubi back. Also, we need to place the seal that allows us to bring them here on them."
"Yes sir." Kituno replied.
-Mountainous area-
Several Dragons of various scale colors, sizes, and shapes were in the area. A Purple scaled, golden horned dragon came up to a big Dragon, that seemed to shine. "Lord Felgrand, we seem to have trouble with the Kitsune Clan."
The dragon looked at the small Dragon. "What are you talking about? The last talks went well."
"Apparently the scourge of the Bijuu has returned, and they need all the help they can get. I am aware of the threat to their previous ruler, and the fact that he is sealed. Lord Kyuubi is currently in a powerful bind. The Reaper Death Seal, the same one that uses the power of the Shinigami himself seems to hold him back. I believe we should let our allies know of this." Spyro told him.
"We must contact the Kitsune Clan. They must know we are going to help them with this through our summoner." Felgrand told him. "What is your name young Dragon?"
"Spyro, sir."
"Spyro, I am glad you let me know of this. This situation is far above anything else. Did you follow the Chain of command?"
"With news like this? I'd say screw the Chain of Command. This is easily top notch business!"
"Then you have done the right thing. Something like this regards our allies, and as such, coming straight to the top is a must. I commend you for your sense of duty."
Spyro nodded.
-Volcano-
Kon has assembled the Phoenixian Council.
"Kon, why have you called this council?" A giant Phoenix, Suzaku, asked.
"Lady Suzaku, we have found disturbing news from Naruto Uzumaki-Namikaze. The Scourge of the Bijuu is back."
This caused all the Phoenixes in the area to gasp.
"Am I to assume that Lord Kyuubi is in danger because of this, and by proxy, our summoner?"
"Yes, my lady." Kon replied.
"We must let the others in our Alliance know." One of the Phoenixes said. "The Kitsune are our allies. As such, we shall help them in their time of need."
It was at this point, and old toad appeared in the room. "Is this a bad time?" The toad asked. He seemed extremely old, but was very small.
"You are of the Toad Clan, correct?" Kon asked.
"I am an Elder of the Toad Clan, Phoenix. My name is Fukasaku. I have recently received word that one of our dead summoners was also able to summon from the Phoenix clan. As such, I have come to find out if it was the truth, and if so, how it is possible."
Suzaku looked at the Toad. "Fukasaku, of the Toads from Mount Myoboku, am I correct?"
"That is correct."
"Your summoner by the name of Minato Namikaze was one that could summon from both. Only a few Summoning Clans can work alongside other summons without conflict, or nullifying the other Contract. From my understanding, the Toads use the standard chain to summon. The Phoenix Clan does not use that chain, and instead, uses a different one. That makes it possible for one to summon from both the Toads and the Phoenixes. The Dragons and Kitsune are just two of the others. Through Minato, we have an unspoken alliance, as he could summon both of us."
Fukasaku nodded. "That would seem to be the case. However, I have also heard of some trouble with one of your allies. That would also mean there is trouble with one of our allies."
"That is correct. Lord Kyuubi, of the Kitsune Clan, is in more danger than you can believe."
"Lord Kyuubi? Do you mean the Kyuubi no Yoko that attacked Konohagakure almost 13 years ago?"
"That was not his doing, and we already know why. There was someone that instigated that, and since he is the reason that attack happened, we need to help protect the boy he is sealed within. That one happens to be a summoner of both the Phoenix Clan, and Kitsune Clan. He also wishes to sign with the Toads, as his father did. This would make the second one we both accompany." Suzaku told him.
"You defend him because you are allies, correct?"
"That is one reason, yes. However, there is one that everyone in our alliance knows of. We call him the bane of the Bijuu, and for good reason. He is after the one known as Naruto Uzumaki-Namikaze. He is the son of Minato Namikaze, and the reason is he is the Jinchuuriki of Lord Kyuubi. If you do not wish to help, then that is your choice, but we will let Naruto know of this." Suzaku told him.
"Gamabunta did say that Minato mentioned the attack was forced, but he doesn't know who it was that forced it. We have had no confirmation of it, and that is the problem."
"We already know who it is, as there is only one that has that kind of power. He is known as the Bane of the Bijuu, for the fact that he can manipulate those tainted by the Juubi no Ookami. The original Bijuu. His return will only spell destruction and doom, should he get his hands on the Juubi." Suzaku said. "The Phoenix Clan will help him, even if the Toads will not."
"I will let Jiraiya know of this development. We will keep you updated, as well as him. Consider the unspoken alliance, an all out alliance. If nothing else, this is to help the Son of Minato Namikaze. We will hold a council in 4 weeks, allowing the Toads, our allies, the Phoenix clan, and your allies to converse. We will let our summoners know as well. I believe you should do the same." Fukasaku told them.
"I believe we are finished here. I will send messengers to the others of the existence of this meeting." Suzaku said.
"I thank you, Phoenix."
"Suzaku."
"I must take my leave. My wife would kill me if I missed her dinner." Fukasaku said, before leaving in a puff of smoke.
"Lady Suzaku, I will let the messengers know." Kon said.
"Very well, Kon. All of our allies are to know of this, along with our summoner." Suzaku said, earning a nod from the others.
-Konohagakure, a few days later-
Naruto had woken up, Hinata at his side. Because of this, she woke up as well. "Good morning, Hinata." Naruto said.
"Let's get ready." Hinata said, before getting up. She had long gotten used to Naruto being in the area, changing while she was. She was told by her elders to move in with him, as they are now engaged.
"I'm still surprised at our fathers. I had no idea they could come up with something we'd act on, even without their influence." Naruto said. "I also gave him the specifics of the seal, and your sister, along with your father are having it put on them today. I'm supposed to oversee it's application, to make sure it is done correctly. I'll be sending a Shadow Clone to watch over the process. It will be placed on her in the same spot as it is placed on you. They have the details of its design, so they should have it right, but this was Hiashi's request."
Hinata nodded, as they went to eat, before meeting with their team. Sasuke was already there.
"Hey Sasuke. What's up?" Naruto asked.
"Nothing much." Sasuke replied. He has gotten better lately, due to talking with his mother, and finding out the truth. "How's things with your engagement?"
"Pretty good." Naruto said.
It was that moment that 3 foxes appeared, and got onto the bridge. "Kituno? Who are these guys, and why are you here?" Naruto asked.
"Naruto, we need to find out just what is holding Lord Kyuubi back." Kituno said. "Also, I was rushed a bit, because of the news you gave me, that I completely forgot about the seal that will allow us to summon you to our home."
"Huh. Didn't think about that." Naruto added. Hinata looked at them.
"I take it those are friends of yours?" Kituno nodded. "Then we should trust them, right?"
"I had to get my father's permission, and let him know of the situation. We've already sent word to our allies about the situation. We have also heard from the Phoenix Clan about a meeting regarding our alliance and the Toads along with their allies. Those regarding the Bijuu have also been notified."
Naruto and Hinata nodded.
"Kituno, it seems your weren't trying to play a trick. The boy really does hold Lord Kyuubi." One of them said. This one had 2 tails, like Kituno. His fur was a deep blue.
"I told you, didn't I? He did say it himself."
"True as that is, we still need to find out what seal was used."
Naruto nodded at that. "It was something known as the Reaper Death Seal. It's powered by the Shinigami, and as such, it won't be easy to escape, and he knows it."
"Damn. There's no way we can get him out. Perhaps the Phoenix clan can help out with that."
"Already working on it." Naruto said. "We'd need a fox, and they'd have to be dead. After that, we'd transfer his conscious to the dead fox, resulting in a bit of Reincarnation, but in a different sense. Around here, there aren't any foxes, dead or alive. Not anymore, at least. You can thank the event 13 years ago for that."
"You blame Lord Kyuubi for this?"
"No, I blame the one that forced him to attack. I already know there is a reason for everything. Now that I know the reason, I can do something about it." Naruto finished, right as a Dragon flew in. It happened to be Spyro.
"Sasuke, the Dragons wish for you to help the Kitsune Clan's summoner."
"Hey Spyro. I'd help, even if you didn't ask me to. He's already helping me. I have to return the favor somehow." Sasuke said. "Apparently, helping with this will do just fine."
"You remember the seal we had put on your right shoulder blade?" Sasuke nodded. "If you feel a tug coming from it, make sure those around you know that you are being brought to your summons. If there is a fight going on, send Chakra to it, and that will let us know you are busy with something. Instead, we will send help directly to you via Reverse Summon."
"Noted." Sasuke replied.
The foxes then placed a tail on Naruto and Hinata. Their right shoulders felt a sting, but it ended quickly. Kituno looked at them both. "That will allow us to summon either of you to our forest, should you need to know something. We will be monitoring any threat to you, Naruto. Any threats to you, by proxy is a threat to Lord Kyuubi. If there is one, do not hesitate to summon one of us. And if you come across any Jinchuuriki, and they go crazy, do not hesitate to summon one of us."
The other Kitsune nodded. "Kituno, you now have a witness to your claim. We will back up what you said at the meeting, as we have seen the proof ourselves."
"Thanks, guys. You know I wouldn't use Lord Kyuubi as a prank. That's treason. I may be sneaky, and a prankster, but I'm not stupid." Kituno replied.
"Just like me. Sneaky, prankster, but not stupid enough to commit treason." Naruto added. The Foxes nodded. "Wait, I think I can send you back from here. Going out on foot would put you in danger if the other villagers saw you. They still don't like foxes."
The Kitsune nodded, while Naruto put a hand on them to send them back. Sasuke did the same with Spyro. Kakashi showed up right afterwards. "Yo. Sorry I'm late. A black cat crossed my path, but there was something off about it. Decided to take the scenic route."
Hinata was suddenly interested. "Did this cat have some kind of tattoo on it's forehead?"
"You saw it too?" Kakashi asked, somewhat surprised. "Honestly, I thought that cat was related to Tora."
"Yeah, I saw 2 days ago. It had some kind of strange power emanating from it." Hinata added. "It didn't even seem like Chakra."
"Huh." Kakashi said. "Didn't think anyone else noticed it."
"I just passed it, but I saw that it looked at me as I did. Nothing bad has happened." Hinata said.
Kakashi shrugged at that. "Alright, let's go get ourselves a few D-ranks. They're boring, but we got to do something, right?"
They all nodded. They finished them with ease, and went back to the Waterfall they had trained at for the past few days. Naruto and Sasuke were working on walking to the top of the tree. Hinata still hadn't reached 20 feet on the Waterfall. It was slow going. Kakashi had been watching their progress, and was highly impressed. Naruto had a will to succeed, as did Sasuke. Hinata was hoping to get better, and the longer she tried, the better she would get.
There was a few hours of this, and Jiraiya came up to them. "So, Kakashi, how's their progress?"
"Pretty good. Sasuke and Naruto are competing to see who gets to Water Walking faster. So far, they've been progressing at the same rate. Hinata, I'm not sure how hard Waterfall Climbing is, as I have yet to try it myself, but she hasn't made it to 20 feet up the thing."
"Huh. Thought it was tough, but that's rough." Jiraiya replied. "By the way, I've been wondering where your books are. I mean, surely you've been reading them."
"Not recently." Kakashi said. "I have to provide my full attention to the 3 of them. Naruto, because his father was my sensei, Sasuke, due to Obito's sacrifice. Hinata, I'm afraid I don't know much to do there. I don't know much about them, to be honest. I mean, I know things are slow going, but they're really adamant about the training itself. Naruto, I can understand. Hinata, only somewhat. She wants to help Naruto as well. Sasuke... I figured it would be for revenge, but he recently told me Revenge is no longer a concern for him. We have Naruto to thank for that."
"Normally, I'd ask around, but I don't think that would be a good idea. I thought you should know that the Phoenixian Alliance is going to meet with the Toad, Slug, and Monkey Summoning Clans. It's to ally our alliances. Tsunade is supposed to be there, as am I. We have to go as summoners, not as ninja. Naruto, Sasuke, and Hinata have to come as well for the same reason I do." Jiraiya told him.
"So you decided to let them know?" Kakashi said. "I'd wager they already know."
They both looked at the Genin. Naruto had finally made it to the top, but was panting. Sasuke was there as well. "Finally, we made it up." Sasuke said.
"We're not done yet. To master it, we have to walk up and down the vertical surface for an hour, and then sit on the vertical surface for another 30 minutes. Then we have it mastered. That's when I'd go for Water Walking. It will help out in the long run. These are the terms I learned by. Of course, back then i was using a few hundred Shadow Clones to do so, but hey! Beggars can't be choosers, am I right? Let's head back down." Naruto said, getting a nod from Sasuke, before they jumped down.
They found Jiraiya next to Kakashi. "Jiraiya?" Naruto asked, confused. "What are you doing here?"
"I recently heard about a meeting between the Phoenixian Alliance and the Toads allies."
"Oh that? I already got the memo last night. The current boss of the Kitsune Clan has a mental link with the Kyuubi that he can establish. I can't listen in on it, but he let me know, as I have to be there. I knew about this yesterday morning, and let Hinata and Sasuke know, since they are involved as well. The Phoenixes will reverse Summon me, the Kitsune will do the same for Hinata, and the Dragons will do so for Sasuke." Naruto replied. "We're good, and I've already let the Hokage know of our situation last night after we were done with training. After that, we would be free for a C-rank, as our training will likely be done by then. There was one month after it was decided. That would provide enough time, I believe. At least enough to get through Water Walking."
Jiraiya was a little skeptical, but nodded all the same. "If you have your mother's flair, you'd get it done in a little less. She always had a flair for the impossible."
"Yet another thing I share in common with her." Naruto replied. "No surprise, I guess. Probably an Uzumaki thing."
"Seems like it." Kakashi added.
"Nah, your father was like that too. But now I know why he was working on things with the dead. The Phoenixes had a part in it." Jiraiya told them. "Put it that way, and I can't say I'm surprised, to be honest."
Naruto and Sasuke nodded at that. "So, Naruto. You said we're not done with Tree climbing yet, right?"
"Yeah. Like I said before, We have to walk up and down a vertical surface for an hour, and then sit on it for another 30 minutes. It has to be continuous. Hinata has already built up the reserves, as she has gone through it. I had the reserves before I did this the first time." Naruto replied. "That's one reason my control was so fucked up, I couldn't make a single Clone."
"But you made them with such ease in the Graduation."
"Those were Shadow Clones Sasuke, and I only made 2, when I could've easily made 500. Even with the 500 or so back at my place working on things." Naruto retorted. "At that point, and maybe even now without this seal, I probably couldn't make one normal clone to save my life. Hopefully by the time we're done here, I can perform a regular clone."
"That's why you could never do the Clone Jutsu. Inadequate control due to high Chakra Levels." Sasuke replied.
"You finally got it." Naruto said. "My reserves are far too high for any Genjutsu by using the control I get from Water Walking normally. And right now the only ways the Kyuubi can help me out is with Chakra and healing. The telepathic link is gone until the Five-Pronged Seal is removed, and once we're done with this, I'd rather have the seal off for my control training to actually be useful."
"What do you mean, telepathic link?" Kakashi asked.
"Since he's sealed in me, he can hear my thoughts, usually. He can also answer them through the link, and even give me some advice, if I ask. So far, he's done nothing but help out, but there are a few things he's outright refused, because of the villagers. Even though the person was willing to go through it, he said no due to a side effect." Naruto explained.
"What do you mean? And what is the side effect?" Jiraiya asked, his eyes narrowed.
"Well, I wanted to help Hinata out with something, and figured that the Kyuubi would be able to help with that, but he outright refused, saying it could turn her into a Hanyou, or a full blown demon." Naruto told them.
Kakashi and Jiraiya's eyes widened. Kakashi thought, 'That Kyuubi was against turning Hinata into a Demon or Hanyou? I thought he'd be all for it, just to get a few laughs in!'
Jiraiya was thinking along other lines. 'So Kushina was right, huh? I should've known the Kyuubi wouldn't want to attack the village if it wasn't necessary. And that means he WAS forced! Oh, the Toads are gonna LOVE this!'
Sasuke was also thinking, though not what anyone else would bother thinking about. 'I always thought something was strange. Turns out a lot of things that happen these days have some weird motive behind them.' Sasuke shrugged. "Well, if that's all, l think we should get back to the Tree Climbing exercise, don't you?"
Naruto nodded and they started trying to walk up and down the Tree they chose beforehand, Sasuke almost made it to an hour, before he ran out of Chakra. Naruto, made it to an hour, but fell as he was about to sit down. They both landed, Sasuke panting as he was low on Chakra.
"When you said... you had large... reserves... I didn't expect... this..." Sasuke was close to passing out.
Naruto came up to him, and propped him up against a tree trunk, before sitting down next to him. "You have no idea. I still have 40 or so Shadow Clones working on things." he tensed. "Make that 41. One of them dispelled... and they just finished another project. The Amulet of Ghostspeak." (A/N: The name and function is identical to the one used in Runescape, which I do NOT own! The look is different, as will be shown later on.)
"That will help me talk to her?" Sasuke asked, though still tired.
"Yeah. Get some rest. I'll take you home later. I can't use the Flaming Teleport until I master this exercise, so getting it done as quick as possible is what I should do." Naruto then got up, and went back to the tree, and started to walk up it again, while Sasuke was passed out. He managed to sit down, but wasn't able to hold it for 10 minutes. He was going a lot faster than before. He tried again, but the sun set before he could finish the sitting down part.
"Naruto, Sasuke, Hinata. I believe time's up." Kakashi said, making Naruto fall. At least he landed on his feet.
They went back, and did the same thing the next day. Naruto had finished it in front of Kakashi, and ended up reading a book for a while. Sasuke, on the other hand, was stilling focusing on trying to sit down. Naruto placed a bookmark and closed the book. "Want some advice, Sasuke?"
"Why? So you can gloat?"
"Nah, I do that in my mind all the time, but rarely about you." Sasuke shrugged. "Focus on multiple points for your Chakra to stick when sitting down. Once you do that, you should be able to sit down, but then you have to keep each spot completely even. That's why this is mastering it, instead of just walking up and down the thing."
Kakashi looked on, highly impressed. "Naruto, how did you come up with this?"
Naruto went on to explain. "I said yesterday the Kyuubi told me this is truly mastering it, but he never said why. Found out my father had figured it out already. Keeping several Chakra points even, separating them from a select few spots to many more spots, such as 5 to maybe 80, is a lot harder to do. This is especially true when you're keeping it in one area for an hour straight. Switching the position is a lot harder."
Kakashi nodded in agreement. 'I think we can call him a Chakra Sage. He knows quite a bit.' He looked at Naruto again. 'Nah, he may be smart on the subject, but he's a little too young for that. No one would see it. Ah well. Can't win them all, right?'
"I agree completely, Kakashi." A voice said in Kakashi's head. "Before you go and say something out loud, I'm talking to you telepathically."
'Alright, who are you?'
"Don't tense up when I say this, but I'm the one you know as the Kyuubi no Kitsune." Kakashi tensed slightly, but no one caught it.
'Why are you talking to me?'
"To give you my reasons for wanting to help Naruto in the first place. It may be for survival on my part, but that pales in comparison to the reason I told him."
'Oh? And what could be that far ahead of your own survival?' Kakashi thought. 'You're supposed to be ruthless.'
"Actually, I'm just supposed to be sneaky and a Prankster. Those are Kitsune traits, and I'm a Kitsune. Yoko, on the other hand, are ruthless, a little corrupt, and have a lot more bloodlust than I showed that night." There was a pause. "The biggest reason is that I envy him." This caught Kakashi off guard.
'Envy?'
"I believe you are aware of the life he lived?"
'More than most.'
"Then you should know that even the worst demons, aside from the Juubi, would've done less to an outcast, even if they hated him. Yet he pushed on. Even I'm surprised he had any sanity left when he was 8, much less now! His sanity is almost completely intact at this point. That should, by all accounts, be impossible. Demon, Human, Hanyou, it doesn't matter which. No one could retain their sanity after all that. Yet he has."
'Why both telling me this?'
"He has forged a major bond with Hinata. Sasuke is rising as well, though not as fast as I would hope. I figure you, of all people, should know what we plan to do, but he won't tell you. As such, I think I should."
'If you're going to destroy the village...'
"Hell no! Naruto would be dead, and I'd be released before that ever happened. That is why I'm envious of him. He doesn't blame the village, or me, for what they did to him." Another pause. "Our plan is to right the wrongs that has been done, all the while stopping the Juubi from being revived. He needs to get his Water Control up as fast as possible, then we can finally get rid of the taint the Juubi placed in me a long ass time ago. It's Naruto's bloodline that will help me out with this. His mother's side. While normally harmful to Demons, it also has a purifying effect. Since I got most of the taint, I'd need more than time to get rid of it. That's where he comes in." Kyuubi explained the effects. "And now you see why this is beneficial to both of us. After I've been purified, so to speak, I can move my consciousness to a dead fox, and not cause any harm to anyone. The result of this regarding Naruto, I am unsure of at the moment, and have been trying to figure it out before we go that far. I have already told him not to get me out of here before any of that, and the Chakra that he has sealed in him will stay with him, as his own, with his elements."
Kakashi didn't know how to reply to that. 'How do I know you're not trying to screw him over?'
"Please. If I wanted to do that, I'd have done it already. Besides, it was my idea to use the Five-Pronged seal. Not his. What does that tell you?"
'I... I don't know... Huh. Feels weird that I'm talking to the reason my sensei died and I'm so relaxed.'
"Can't say I blame you for that. At least I can honestly say it wasn't entirely my fault. Still, I have to repent somehow. And this isn't just for attacking. It's for the hell my presence caused Naruto. He may have forgiven me, but I sure as hell haven't forgiven myself. Now you know the top 2 reasons why I'm helping him. After that... well, that's where survival kicks in."
'You are one strange little fox.'
"I'm 20 stories tall in my fox form. You call that small?"
'No. It's only an expression.' This was the point he heard laughter. 'Okay, what's so damn funny?'
"The fact you thought I didn't know it was an expression. You do realize I've been around humans for a few millenia, right?"
'Ah... damn. You really are good at being a prankster.'
"That's a Kitsune for ya! Sometimes a little too playful for their own. That includes me."
'Alright, what else do you want?'
"Nothing much. Just know that if Naruto runs from something, it's because I'm telling him to, and odds are likely you should run too. You may have a lot of experience, but he's more cunning than a Kitsune, more stubborn than his mother, and a lot more creative than his father. In many ways, he's more dangerous than I am. Especially if he reaches his potential."
'I think I can handle that.'
"Good. Because I've been using my own Chakra for this link, and have had to ignore Naruto while talking. He's beginning to tire out. Don't let him know that I talked to you. Oh! And if someone pisses him off, tell any Konoha ninja in the area, along with a client if needed, not to move. If his anger is because of one person, then I pity them for pissing off the most dangerous person to ever come out of Konohagakure. If you thought Kushina was bad when pissed off, you'd think you were looking at the devil incarnate if Naruto gets pissed. This is for your own safety."
'Duly noted.' Kakashi didn't get a response. 'Apparently he cut it off. Oh well. I'll have to take his advice with Naruto's anger seriously, though. Something tells me he was a little... I don't know... scared? Worried? Something else? I can't seem to place it.'
(A/N: I've only been going through training for a reason. The missions are unimportant at this point in time.)
-2 days before the Summoning meeting-
Team 7 was standing in front of the Hokage. "Lord Hokage, I believe Team 7 will need the next few days off. Something will be happening in 2 days, and all 3 Genin need to be there." Kakashi stated.
"And you are going with?" Sarutobi asked.
"Unfortunately, I am unable to at this point. I would have been notified by Pakkun if I were to be there." Kakashi replied.
"This is the summoning meeting that I have heard about, correct?" Sarutobi asked, earning a nod from the Genin. "Well, I have been called for it as well, and for something like this, it will take precedence over my duties as Hokage. It is mandatory for the oldest summoner to attend. As such, I must be there."
The Genin nodded. "If I may ask, why are you 3 to go to the Summoning Meeting? Only summoners of those participating are to come."
Naruto stepped forward. "Lord Hokage, we are to be there, being as we are part of the reason the meeting is being held. Or rather, I am part of the reason. The Kitsune Summoning Clan, and yes there is one, is in a desperate bind right now, and the Phoenix and Dragons Clans, along with several others will be present. The allies of the Toads, which I can assume will have the Slugs and Monkeys, are to meet with the Phoenixian Alliance. All laws here will not be in effect during that meeting, so everyone there will know exactly why it was called. Sasuke will represent the Dragon Clan, Hinata, the Kitsune Clan, and myself, the Phoenix Clan."
"You know of the reason why this meeting is being called?" Sarutobi raised an eyebrow.
"I have already been filled in with some of the details, but not the entire thing. One regards the Bijuu in general, the other an Alliance between the Toad and Phoenix Clans that recently became official. Those are two reasons I have heard, but there may be more brought up. The boss of each Summoning Clan can bring one summoner as a human representative. That's why I'm going with the Phoenix Clan, when I'm also a summoner of the Kitsune Clan. The Kitsune have 2 summoners, so they will take Hinata, while the Phoenix Clan takes me." Naruto explained.
Sarutobi nodded. "I see your point. You will have the next 4 days off. Kakashi, Sasuke, you are dismissed." They both nodded and left. "Alright, now what is going on between you two?"
-Uchiha Estate-
Sasuke was in a room, a pair of Navy Blue Glasses and a strange necklace, that looked like a Phoenix was hanging from it, on. He was standing in the middle of the unfurnished room. "Hey mom. I've been working on things, and have wondered if I can activate it with all the training I've been doing with my control. I haven't been able to try until recently."
Mikoto just raised an eyebrow. "Why would you bother doing this now? The meeting obviously has something to do with the Bijuu. You already told me that. You don't want the Sharingan there. I am already aware of the Scourge of the Bijuu, and he happens to be an Uchiha. The Sharingan is not a good idea to use there. Not until you let them know that there is nothing that you will do against them once it does activate."
"The Dragons know I'm behind them all the way. Whoever has been doing this, Uchiha or not, has to go down. If they are an Uchiha, then all the more reason for me to help out." Sasuke told her.
"You want to get rid of the shame of the clan, correct?" Mikoto asked, getting a nod out of Sasuke. "That's why you wish to take him out?"
"Yeah, mom. This is something I have to do, though it would be easier if Itachi could help me here, he is considered a Rogue." It was at this point, a raven landed at the window. Sasuke noticed.
"If you're one of the raven summons, I need you to give Itachi a message. I already know the truth. He is not my main target. Not anymore. If I kill him, it's to get rid of the guilt he has built up. Not for revenge. The Uchiha Clan was stupid and corrupt. I almost started following father, but someone else opened my eyes. I am not going to say why, nor will I say who he is. However, the Scourge of the Bijuu is my target. If you could help, please let me know. We'll need someone on the outside, and I now know you are not a true Rogue."
The raven nodded its head, before flying off. "Huh. Didn't think I was right that it was a summon."
"You have been around summons long enough to tell the difference between a normal animal and a summon." Mikoto told him. Sasuke nodded at that. "Alright. Now go through it again. You have the weights on, so you better move it."
"Well, at least Team 8 is coming back tomorrow. Then I can actually get a date with someone that, somehow, I actually like."
"Hold up." Mikoto said, stopping him. "You finally found someone to love?"
"I wouldn't put it that far. She's still in the fangirl stage, but I figure she has the merits for it later on. I also don't know much about her personally. It's only because of a bet Naruto and I made that got me to realize it." Sasuke explained the bet to his mother.
"And?"
"He won. I did exactly as was agreed upon beforehand, two of them I didn't get anything. But the last one... Sakura is a different story. I let her know one thing. Get stronger physically. Then I might actually go out with her. Recently, I asked Naruto to have a Shadow Clone stalk her, since he, somehow, heard about it. Turns out he already was. She's taken the advice seriously, so I figure that tomorrow I can actually go ahead and ask her for that date. I need to find out for sure if she is the one for me." Sasuke explained.
"Oh I see. Trying to find a way to make the clan better, eh?" Mikoto asked, earning a nod. "Well then, ask, Naruto to oversee the little date, and make sure he knows not to let it be known that he's following you. Utmost secrecy is needed for this. He should have the items he made for you."
"I happen to have a pair of my own, you know." A voice said, coming from the door. Naruto was wearing the glasses and Amulet himself. "I finished the Third pair yesterday, and Hinata already has it."
"Oh, well then, don't just stand there, I want to know how far she's gone." Mikoto said, somewhat happily.
"Well, at first I didn't want to believe it, but she's been working on both her reserves, and Physical strength. She's even gone far enough to ask Kurenai about learning Genjutsu, and even ran into Team Gai. Found that he was a Taijutsu specialist, so she asked for a few tips. That was 3 weeks ago. She's been wearing weights everywhere she goes ever since. She hasn't gone that far in Ninjutsu, but I don't really see the problem there."
"Neither do I. She's obviously been taking her training seriously like I asked." Sasuke replied.
"That she is. Want me to let her know once she gets through the gate?" Naruto looked in the direction of the North Gate. "I can already sense her coming. From what I know she was on a C-rank mission, her first in fact. I also got word from Kon that her mission went off without a hitch. A delivery to the Fire Country capital. There was no interference."
"Damn. She's already gone through a C-rank, huh?" Mikoto mused. "Sasuke, I haven't heard anything about you getting a C-rank mission."
"It's because of the Summoning Meeting in 2 days. That's why we haven't gone on a C-rank, aside from our training in Chakra Control. I've got 38 feet up a waterfall using only Chakra."
"Waterfall Climbing using Chakra? That's a new one." Mikoto admitted. "How is it all going?"
"I'll admit it's hard as hell, though that's sugarcoating it. Water walking is one thing. But try walking on water when you can't climb a tree using only chakra. That's probably accurate."
"Told you it was hard as hell." Naruto said, with a smile. "Anyway, do you want me to let her know or not?"
"Go ahead. I'll meet up with her at the memorial stone, 11:00 tomorrow. Make sure she knows that, and tell her not to go fancy."
Naruto already had a notebook out, and was writing notes, apparently. "11:00, tomorrow, casual clothing?" A nod. "Memorial stone."
"And no make up. It does not belong on her." Naruto wrote that down. "I owe you one, Naruto."
"You owe me two, but helping us out like this is good enough for anything that might come along. Maybe even more." Naruto replied, before leaving in a swirl of flames.
"Any advice on this? I don't have a clue as to what to do." Sasuke told his mother, who giggled.
"Well then, we better get started."
-Konohagakure, North Gate-
Naruto was leaning against a tree, as Team 8, headed by Kurenai, with Kiba, Shino, and Sakura behind her. Sakura looked a little weary, but he noticed she had the weights on. Naruto walked up to them, and Kiba greeted him.
"Yo dude! What's up?"
"I'm only here to bring a message to the Pink Haired Banshee." Naruto replied, causing Sakura to try and hit him. He caught it. "It happens to be from someone you actually want to see. He's currently training right now, and knows that you have been as well." Sakura's face went a slight pink, and recalled her arm.
"So, you've been letting him know?" Kiba asked.
"What makes you say that?" Naruto asked.
"You have been watching our training sessions as a team." Shino replied, stoically. "After this, it was not hard to figure out."
"Why would he bother with you?" Sakura asked.
"Because the only one I was asked to watch was you, Sakura. Honestly, I've been watching your progress since a few days after our little bet. He asked me 2 weeks ago to do so, and I told him that I heard everything you both said in the forest."
"You what?"
"Honestly, I was surprised at what he said. He absolutely detests fangirls, and you were his biggest one. That's why he gave you that piece of advice. And it all ties back to the message I have." Naruto said, pulling out a piece of paper. "I have no romantic interest in you as of last month."
This shocked Kiba. "What do you mean? You were head over heels for her back in the academy!"
"That was when I was both dense, and an idiot. One month of a Clone attending, and that month ended a week before graduation. During that month, I was a lot more... observant. Found someone in the class that actually liked me, and my father thought I would fall for her before I was even born. He was right, and now we're engaged." Naruto shrugged, as he handed the piece of paper to Sakura. "Make sure you read all of that, and don't brag about it. You can't be a fangirl and still have him want to date you. It's one or the other." Naruto looked at Kurenai. "I'm sure you noticed I was watching her training sessions, Kurenai. Well, now you know why."
"That I do. I may not like it, but it was effective. You're obviously a natural at hiding. I could barely sense your Chakra."
"That's because of the way I'm training my Control. I've already got Water Walking down, but with my reserves it was still not good enough for Genjutsu. Once I'm done with the last exercise, which I have already started, then I'm basically done, and the seal restricting my control will be gotten rid of."
"You're going through the exercises again?" Kurenai was surprised. "And now your back to Walking on water."
"Yes and then no." Naruto replied. "Water Walking I've already finished. What I'm doing is one step further. I've been working on it for 2 weeks now. My team calls it Waterfall Climbing. Idea from the man in the gut. I must say it's hard as hell, but even Kakashi-sensei has gone for it. It took him 5 days to finish it, so you know."
"Oh really? I'd like to see this." Kurenai said.
"Well, I'll be training at Waterfall 13 tomorrow. Hinata will be there as well." Naruto said. "Now that I've got the message delivered, I'm out. And Sakura? Don't stop training, and never quit. Word of advice from someone close to Sasuke." He left in a spiral of Bright Orange flames.
Sakura read the note, and her eyes went wide. "Kurenai-sensei, I think I'll need the day off tomorrow."
"I was planning on that myself." Kurenai replied. "But I want to know what happens tomorrow."
"That's debatable, but I'll think about it. If it goes well, then I'll see what else comes up before I say anything. If not, I'll let you know." Sakura replied. "Later Shino. Kiba." She ran off, a sliver of a smile on her face.
"HELL YEAH! HE FINALLY ASKED ME OUT!"
"Shut the hell up! I don't need you criticizing me, and drop the subject! It hasn't happened yet, and I've already found out that he doesn't want anything fancy. That's why he said Casual. I'm not even looking for an overly romantic thing tonight like I used to."
"You're such a wuss!"
"Then wouldn't that make you a wuss? After all you are me."
"Ah... Dammit!"
"I rest my case. Keep your thoughts to yourself for this. I have to do this on my own. I don't expect things to go without a hitch, as there are still a few things I know he wouldn't like. I can't act like a fangirl anymore. Definitely not around him. He hates fangirls, but for some reason, he gave me a chance. I'm not going to blow it."
"Fine. But I will be watching."
"When are you not?" Sakura asked before stopping the conversation, as she got home.
-the next day-
It was 6:00 PM and Team 7 was at waterfall 13, minus Kakashi. Kurenai was there though.
"I must admit, I'm surprised you came up with the Waterfall Climbing Exercise. No Jounin has ever come up with that." Kurenai said.
"We didn't come up with it." Naruto said.
"It was the Kyuubi." Hinata added. "And before you say anything, Sasuke and I are already in the know. It helps when I can talk to the Kyuubi when I'm sleeping next to Naruto."
"As for me, I kind of found out from the Kitsune Summons. They're not affected by that law, but at least I have a lot more respect for him now than I did during the academy." Sasuke replied. "It also helps he's done several things for me. Even got a Summoning Contract. Naruto has 2, and Hinata has one. After some time, Naruto's getting a Third one."
Kurenai nodded. "Wait, what did you mean sleeping next to Naruto?"
"Oh, that's right. I never told you, did I? I'm actually engaged to him. And even after a month of that, nothing has happened." Hinata replied.
"Alright then, Sasuke how was your little date?" Naruto asked.
"Oddly enough, it was... fun. Not once did I hear the Banshee Screech she was known for at the Academy. It came close, but I could tell she was trying to restrain it. A little too hard. She apparently still has some fangirl left in her. At least she was truly taking my advice seriously."
"Yeah, that guy made a mistake that even I wouldn't have made. You never touch a girl there unless you're already married. I don't even do that to Hinata." Naruto replied.
"You were watching it all?" Kurenai asked.
"It was my request." Sasuke admitted. "I wasn't completely sure about it, so you know. I needed someone to be around to bail me out. He's the most likely choice. Luckily, I didn't need it."
"Would the one you went on a date with be Sakura Haruno?" Sasuke nodded. "Well then, at least I know it went well. I'd rather wait for the details. Let her tell me on her own terms, you know?" He nodded.
Another Clone went poof over at the Waterfall. "4 more left." Naruto said, looking back at the waterfall.
"Training your control with Shadow Clones is an amazing tactic, but the fact of the matter is, it doesn't seem practical."
"For anyone else, it wouldn't even be beneficial enough to make it possible. I'm an exception, due to my status as a Jinchuuriki. A Jinchuuriki always has extreme levels of Chakra, and as such Genjutsu is never something we can use, we can break them, but we can't use them. I'm going for what no one else has bothered to. And that's train my control to the extreme. I'm even using a Five-Pronged Seal to screw up my control and increase it like that. I haven't taken it off yet, so I guess you can say that I'm not completely aware of the results, but I'm hoping for the best." Naruto replied.
"Well, that will work wonders. How much did it go down?"
"From Water Walking mastered enough to go for a 4 hour fight on a lake, to unable to go 6 steps up a tree without blowing myself off."
"Wow, that's bad. And all that because of the seal?" Kurenai asked. He nodded in response. "Then by the time you're done, there would be no doubt that you'd be able to use Genjutsu when it's removed.
"Thanks." Naruto replied. The last 3 dispelled after falling. "Dammit! 3 feet left! Tomorrow, we're not going to be training, guys." He told Sasuke and Hinata. "Remember, we have to be present at the meeting, and we should look at least somewhat decent." They both nodded.
"What meeting?" Kurenai was obviously confused.
"The reason we're actually supposed to be off today is because of this meeting. Tomorrow, we also have off because of it, and the Hokage himself is needed there. He asked Kakashi-sensei to be a bit of a substitute for him, but I told him that I could send a Youki Clone as a replacement. I know how everything is arranged after all. He agreed, but it had to disguise itself as him. Thankfully, no one can see through my Transformation Jutsu. It's not an illusion, but a full out transformation. And Since I already know how he thinks..."
"Then you can play him perfectly!" Kurenai almost shouted.
"That's the idea." Naruto told her. "Anyway, I'd actually have to take notes, and hide them for when he gets back."
"The Hyuuga Clan already knows that he has to be at the meeting, so they won't be bothering him."
"The only Uchiha in the village has to be there, so I can't bother him." Sasuke replied.
"As for the other Shinobi Clans, I have already let them know of the situation, and they understand. Inoichi Yamanaka, however, knew something else was going to happen, as the Hokage wouldn't just leave for a meeting without choosing a replacement. I told him what we both agreed on. He found it unlikely to work, but if it does, and no one, aside from those that were told about it, finds out, then the Yamanaka, Akimichi, and Nara Clans would rather back me up on the council with matters regarding me."
"You've already got the Hyuuga and Uchiha Clans on your side." Sasuke added. "You've got 5 major Shinobi Clans backing you up if this works out."
Kurenai nodded. "And ANBU?"
"Reassigned. There will only be 3 guards, and Kakashi-sensei is one of them. Temporary ANBU membership, as the ones there will be the ones that protected me as a child. Those are the only ones he can trust blindly with me, and as such they have been asked to watch over him tomorrow. They already know it's going to be me, and that I'm going to be playing his part. It's a trial run, so you know. See if I truly have what it takes." Naruto told her. "Did I mention this is an B-class mission for me alone?"
"You already have a B-rank mission?" Sasuke asked.
"It will go on my record as such." Naruto shrugged. "The details are not supposed to be known to anyone else, though. So no telling anyone, Kurenai." his voice was cold at the end. She nodded.
"I want to know just how many people fall for it."
"The Hyuuga Clan knows not to let anyone else know, already." Hinata added. "The only reason I told them is because they would think it was an impostor trying to get the secrets of the Village."
"And that would be helpful if they could watch this one." Naruto said. "This could easily be a Village Wide prank, but no one will ever know of it."
"Well then, I leave you to your devices. Rest assured no one will hear it from me." Kurenai got up and left in a Shunshin.
Naruto got up, disappearing in Flames, while Hinata disappeared in a Water spiral. Sasuke was surrounded by flames and left he same way Naruto did.
-the next day, on an open field-
Gamabunta, Katsuyuu, Enma, Suzaku, Felgrand, Kitodo, who was an 8-tailed Kitsune, along with several others with 1 tail each where in the Clearing. They resembled each of the Tailed Beasts, aside from the one resembling the Nanabi no Kabutomushi. But there was a human there, sporting a Takigakure Headband.
Kitodo, Felgrand and Suzaku nodded, and brought in their summoners. Hinata, Sasuke, and Naruto appeared before them.
Gamabunta, Enma and Katsuyuu nodded and brought in their summoners. Jiraiya, Sarutobi, and a blonde woman who looked a little confused at the change in scenery, appeared in front of them. The blonde woman saw Katsuyuu. "Katsuyuu, what the hell is is going on here?"
"I am sorry Tsunade, but your presence at this meeting is mandatory. If there were another summoner of the slugs, then I would have taken them instead." The giant slug replied.
"Fine, just tell me what this meeting is about. And if I have to go back to Konohagakure, they can forget it."
"Tsunade Senju of the Sannin." Felgrand said, drawing her attention. "This meeting does not require your presence as a Ninja, or a Sannin, but as a summoner of the Slug Clan."
"Suzaku, which one is she here for?" Hinata asked, pointing to the Takigakure Ninja that was there.
"I do not know, Hinata. All summoners should meet in the middle. We will begin introductions then." Suzaku replied, before facing the others.
Jiraiya, Tsunade, Sarutobi, Naruto, Sasuke, and Hinata nodded and went up there. The other one came up as well, but she was a little hesitant. Sarutobi looked at her. "May I ask why a Takigakure Kunoichi is here as well?"
"Well, I got the message of this meeting from the Nanabi no Kabutomushi, seeing as I'm his host. The other Kabutomushi aren't able to attend at this point due to them being in disarray at the moment. Instead, they asked me to attend in their place." The girl replied. "My name is Fu."
"So you're a Jinchuuriki too, huh?" Naruto asked, drawing her attention. "Naruto Uzumaki-Namikaze. Jinchuuriki of the Kyuubi no Kitsune." He held out a hand to her. She took it hesitantly. "Although, few know of the Namikaze part of my blood. Had to be kept secret, so I don't suggest you tell anyone about that."
"Noted." Fu replied.
"Tsunade, I figure you won't come back with us." Sarutobi said.
"You're right on that. Now that Kushina and Minato are dead, and their son didn't make it, I have no reason to be there." the blonde woman replied.
"That's where you're wrong, Tsunade." Jiraiya told her, causing her to notice his serious expression. "He happens to be present, and is talking with the Takigakure Kunoichi." He pointed at Naruto. "The proof lies in the fact he's been staying at Minato's old place. The barrier there would prevent anyone but myself, Kakashi, and his son from entering the clearing. He got in there by mere accident, according to the reports. He's been staying there ever since."
Naruto walked up to them, as did Sasuke, Hinata and Fu. "Alright, Jiraiya. What have you been telling her? And why is she here? You better not be trying to ogle her."
"Please. The last time I did that, she noticed and I was beat to a pulp. I haven't used Tsunade for my research since." Jiraiya replied. "I don't have a death wish, you know?"
"And you're lucky that's the case." Tsunade said. She looked directly at Naruto, and saw an uncanny resemblance to someone from her past. "Blondie, what's your name?"
"Naruto Uzumaki-Namikaze. Unfortunately, due to the stupid council's idiocy, and the enemies my father made, I go by Naruto Uzumaki."
"Oh really? And do you know anything of your parents?"
"Of course." Naruto said. "After all, I have been reading up on my heritage, and the Kyuubi no Kitsune is sealed within me."
"Show me the seal. I know what it's supposed to look like."
Naruto took off his shirt enough to show it, and made it appear. "Note there's also a Five-Pronged seal there so I can finish up my Chakra Control training. Hey, I needed to progress somehow, you know."
Tsunade looked at Jiraiya. "Why didn't you send a toad to tell me he was alive?"
"I only found out a few weeks ago, and the Toads were busy trying to let everyone know. I would've had to find you in person, and that would've taken too long." Jiraiya added. "Besides, he's still a fresh Genin. The village itself doesn't know of his father, except for a select few. Just looking at him, you can see Minato."
Tsunade looked at Naruto, and came up to him. "Look, Naruto..."
"I know your were mother's sensei, and the one that would've helped to deliver me. I'm already aware of the day I was born, from the time Kyuubi was released to the point Kyuubi was sealed into me. You were called away by a ROOT ANBU, saying you were needed elsewhere directly after I was delivered. That was a big mistake, and Danzou was behind that. My parents may have died, but I am still alive and kicking." Naruto told her.
"Can you forgive for not being there?"
"Already have." Naruto replied, sighing. "Don't worry too much about me, I'm good. I would like it if someone else would back me up on that stupid council, though. Then again, I doubt you want to deal with those bastards."
"Heh, without ever meeting me, he already knows I want nothing to do with the council." Tsunade said, before chuckling. "For you, I might as well. Can't say the fools are going to live long after I come back though."
"I wouldn't be surprised if they did go down like that." Naruto replied. "Some of them actually deserve it. By the way," he turned to Sarutobi. "How much have you found out from those files I got for you?"
"A lot more than I know what to do with. We have more than enough to put Danzou on Trial, and I haven't even gone through half of it yet." Sarutobi replied.
"After we got it out of there, Kyuubi did tell me that, for someone as paranoid as him, he keeps pretty detailed records." Naruto admitted.
"I'll say." Sarutobi replied, earning confusion from Tsunade.
"Okay, what the hell is going on?"
"Lord Kyuubi, as he's called, has been helping my team out with training. He helped me out before I graduated, and when I started helping out Hinata, so did he. Sasuke was added to that list after a while." Naruto replied. "Don't worry too much about it."
"I'm not worried about it anymore." Sarutobi admitted. "He's done nothing but help so far."
"Yeah, he's given advice to me as well." Jiraiya admitted. "I heard he gave Kakashi some advice, but he didn't tell me what it was. The only thing he did mention, was never to make Naruto mad or we will regret it."
Tsunade grunted. "Well then, let's get this meeting underway. I want to be able to help out my godson, even if I thought he was dead in the first place."
"The same as me, but I still have to monitor my Spy Network. He's close to the end of his Control training, so he should be ready after a few days."
"Try by the end of tomorrow." Naruto said. "But your right, Tsunade. We should get this show on the road."
Gamabunta looked at the others. "Alright, Suzaku. I have heard the confirmation of Minato also being able to summon from your Clan, and as such we had an Unspoken Alliance."
"Gamabunta, what are you talking about?" Enma asked. "No one can summon from more than one Summoning Clan."
"Enma, I have seen proof it is possible." Sarutobi said. "Naruto Uzumaki-Namikaze, the son of my late successor, can summon from two of the others here."
"Sarutobi, that should, by all accounts, be impossible."
"Considering the fact 2 different Chains are used, it actually is possible." Naruto told the aged Monkey. "I have a contract with the Kitsune Clan and Phoenix Clan I plan on going for Toads sometime in the future."
"The Toad, Slug, and Monkey Clans have the same chain, and that is the standard Chain. The others here, as far as I know, have different chains to summon them." Sarutobi told him.
"Now that that's settled," Suzaku said. "We can bring up the first topic. The Toad and Phoenix Clans have made the unspoken alliance a full out alliance. That is the word of Fukasaku."
Gamabunta nodded. "I was already informed of this from him. I have also been told to apologize to the Kitsune Clan, should they show up."
"We are already in the know of the circumstances and do not fault you for your actions that night." Kitodo told him. "Suzaku would not have wanted to fight Lord Kyuubi due to our alliance, and Minato already knew that. That is why he summoned you, Gamabunta. You were the next best thing."
"Then all is forgiven?" Gamabunta asked, earning a nod from the Kitsune. "That was a lot easier than I thought."
"Don't get used to it. We're normally not this forgiving, but we know the circumstances demand otherwise."
Felgrand looked at Kitodo. "Kitodo, I believe its time we let the others know the biggest topic that is to be discussed."
"I will explain it, as it has to do with the Bijuu. Lord Kyuubi is a Bijuu, and therefore is in danger because of it. First, who here is not aware of the Bane of the Bijuu?"
Gamabunta, Katsuyuu, and Enma raised their hands, along with the humans, aside from Sasuke and Naruto. "Sasuke Uchiha, I presume?"
"Yes, Lord Felgrand?" Sasuke replied. "Why do you know of him?"
"I have talked with my mother who is in the Uchiha Clan Estate as a ghost. She is the one that told me who he is."
"Uchiha?" Kitodo shouted. "Felgrand, are you an idiot?"
"Kitodo, there is no reason to go ballistic on him because of my ancestor's actions. I intend to help out in any way I can, as he is the reason the Uchiha Clan was shamed all those years ago. Itachi Uchiha is no longer someone for me to fight. Madara Uchiha is the biggest threat we have. As an Uchiha myself, I can give you information on the Sharingan, if it will help. Madara will pay for what he has done." Sasuke clenched his fists. "That is why, whatever you want to do to him, I'm all for it. He must suffer."
Felgrand was surprised at his declaration. "Kitodo, what do you think of his declaration?"
"Idiotic. No one with pride for their ancestry, such as the Uchiha Clan, would ever go for that!"
"That was before Itachi eliminated everyone in the clan but myself. The Old Uchiha Clan was filled with arrogant bastards. Itachi and myself are the beginning of the New Uchiha Clan. One that won't rely on their Sharingan, or fall prey to arrogance. I'll make sure of that." Sasuke said, his voice dripping with determination. "Believe it or not, the new Uchiha Clan will be run differently. Arrogance will be frowned upon, as will vengeance. I almost fell prey to them myself. I now know that is not the way to do things. Madara must pay, and whatever happens, as long as he suffers, then I want to be there for it."
Kitodo was silent. He studied Sasuke. "Heh. What do you know? I didn't think he'd pass."
"Told you he would." Suzaku said.
"You set that up to see just where he stands, didn't you?" Naruto asked.
"Hey, I couldn't allow him to help if I wasn't sure that he was truly on our side. He has proven himself, and I am glad for it. Sasuke Uchiha, you are definitely not like the other Uchiha I have come across. For that, I am thankful."
"So you wanted to test where I truly stand?" Sasuke asked. "And you played me like a fiddle. I can't say I didn't have that coming, though."
"I am glad you understand the situation." Kitodo told him.
"I may not agree with the methods, they do work." Sasuke said. "And since I know he's going after Naruto here, then it's obvious that he'll come for him sooner or later. If we play the waiting game, then we can be ready for him when he does show up. We can't let anyone else know of this, though."
"And why is this?" A Turtle asked.
"Madara may be an Uchiha, meaning he's arrogant, but he's not stupid. He likely won't show himself until he sees that he has all the cards in his hand. When no one can oppose him. Until then, he is likely to keep himself in hiding, acting only behind the scenes until that point. It's also likely that he would have some kind of organization gather the Bijuu for him, while he waits." Sasuke said.
Jiraiya cursed. "Akatsuki." this earned the attention of everyone in the area. "that's what they're after! It's been the Bijuu all along!"
Naruto growled. "If they're after the Bijuu, then it's obvious he has another goal. The Juubi."
The Summons either paled or growled themselves. "If he is after them, then that means he does want the Juubi. We will need to act on this information." Suzaku said.
"Wait, Suzaku." Kitodo said, before turning to Sasuke. "We have an Uchiha on our side. We can use this to our advantage."
"I'm sorry, but I am not that well versed in the Uchiha Clan, regardless of being the Clan heir." Sasuke admitted. "I'd have to do some research, but as with all Uchiha, you need to either outnumber them by an insane amount, and get them from their blind spot, or avoid their eyes completely. I have not bothered to awaken my Sharingan just yet, because no one here would trust me. Fire is something you'd have to watch out for. There are actually 3 levels to the Sharingan. Madara is the only one to achieve the Third Level, to boot. Itachi has only gone to the second level, and is likely to go blind after prolonged use. That is, unless I awaken it and he takes my Mangekyo Sharingan."
"Oh? So you thought that we couldn't trust an Uchiha?" Felgrand asked. "He's a lot smarter than one would think."
"I couldn't afford a bad impression, so I was hoping to not bother activating it until after I can prove myself to you." Sasuke replied. "Then again, even if you didn't want me for this, I'd still help out on my end. As an Uchiha, I want Madara to pay. As a Summoner of the Dragons, I will help Lord Kyuubi and the other Bijuu. Being here allows both. I wish to be a part of this, and as such will help any way I can."
They all nodded. "Having an Uchiha on our side, while our opponent is an Uchiha will give us an advantage." Enma stated. "The Monkey Clan is in."
"The Slug Clan is also in."
"The Toads are in on this. We owe him for Minato."
The Bijuu representatives all agreed.
"The Dragons are in."
"The Phoenix Clan is in."
"Looks like we're all in agreement."
Everyone nodded. Naruto spoke up. "I think we should let the other Jinchuuriki know of this. It would be helpful if they do, and then they can prepare. We would also need someone well versed in seals to check if their seals are unstable."
"If there is one here, then they might as well check me out." Fu said.
"Then I'd have to refrain from doing anything I'd regret." Jiraiya admitted. "Unless Naruto has adequate knowledge of Demonic Sealing, I'd have to check your seal."
"Why me?" Naruto asked.
"You're a Jinchuuriki. You're like siblings of circumstance." Jiraiya said. "If you don't have adequate knowledge of it, though you should if you've been through everything in Minato's library."
"Heh, you already know I've done that. The only ones I haven't gone through are those belonging to Ninjutsu and Genjutsu. I haven't bothered to touch them. I should know enough, but if there's something wrong, I won't be able to fix it easily." Naruto admitted. "It would be a good idea to know where the seal is before I inspect it."
"My lower back." Fu replied.
"Then lay down on your stomach. It should help." Naruto said, as he ran the seal scan. After a few minutes, he smiled. "Jiraiya, I may be a little off, but it does seem stable, regardless of the one piece I think could be a little better." Jiraiya came up to the seal, and did the same thing.
"Damn. You're right." Jiraiya said. "Fu, get up. There's nothing that needs to be done to your seal as it is stable. However, the Chakra filter could be a little better. Everything else is at the best it can be. Not without going overboard, at least."
Fu nodded and got up. "Thanks. I'm hoping to enter the next Chuunin Exams."
"The next one would be held in Konohagakure." Sarutobi stated.
"Well, we've got everything covered for the time being." Kitodo said.
"Wait, Kitodo." The Tanuki said. "Lady Shukaku's host is unstable. His name is Sabaku no Gaara. His seal, near as I can figure, is shitty at best. I have some Tanuki watching over him. He has be blood crazed for years now, ever since his own father, the Kazekage started sending assassins after him."
"Damn. If we run into him, we'll have to be careful." Hinata said.
"If we have to fight him to the death, we're bringing out the bosses of our summoning clans. If I have the Toads at that time, I'll be bringing out Lady Suzaku and Gamabunta, along with Lord Kyuubi through a different Chain from the Kitsune summoning." Naruto said.
"I'll bring out Lord Kitodo." Hinata added. "That is, if I have the reserves to summon him."
"I'll be summoning Lord Felgrand for that." Sasuke added. "Lord Hokage, if he does go crazy near the village, I believe you should make sure that no one else interferes with the fight. It's going to get a little dangerous. The 3 of us will have to take care of it."
"Heh, my own subordinates telling me what to do." Sarutobi chuckled. "With a force like that, I wouldn't be surprised if shit hit the fan faster than Gai could run." Enma shuddered at that.
"That guy is not sane."
"He's just got a quirk. Like Jiraiya and his perverted tendencies, and Tsunade with her gambling and drinking habits." Sarutobi said.
Naruto chuckled at that. "Everyone that's among the high ranks have some kind of quirk that makes them seem crazy, or insane."
"For the life of me, I could never find one for Minato." Gamabunta said. "The boy was like a saint. He did have one weakness, though. He was loyal to a fault."
"Can't say I'm surprised." Naruto said.
"We will let the Jinchuuriki not present know of the circumstances. We will send word of their identities to the Phoenix Clan, and they can let those in Konohagakure know, along with those in the alliance." The Cephalopod-Ox said. He had 1 tail. "Bakeneko, Kumo is where ours are."
"Right. We're out." The Cat and Cephalopod-Ox left in smoke.
"I will let Sanbi know, as he was recently released from his prison. He will need to know." The turtle got a few nods in response, and left after one more sentence. "Water Country is my target."
The Lava Monkey spoke next. "The Yonbi Jinchuuriki has been roaming for a while, but he has roots in Iwagakure. The Gobi is the same. We should both check there." The Dolphin-dog nodded in agreement and they both left.
"I'm already aware of this, so we don't need to let the Nanabi know." Fu said.
"The Kyuubi already knows, so we're good." Naruto said.
"Then I will let Gaara know to seek you out, should he come to Konohagakure. He will know that you are on his side, and can help out." The Tanuki said.
"Will do." Naruto replied, before the Tanuki left in smoke.
"Jiraiya, we're done here." Gamabunta said. "You have other things to take care of."
"Right." Jiraiya and Gamabunta left.
"Tsunade, we should get going as well." Katsuyuu said.
"I'm going to Konohagakure the moment I get back to the Elemental nations." Tsunade said. "I need to have a little talk with the Council. Sensei, let them know I'm coming back. And I'm pissed." She turned to Katsuyuu, and nodded. They left.
Sarutobi looked at the children. "Fu, I look forward to seeing you at the Chuunin Exams." he looked at Enma. "Let's go, Enma." They both left in smoke.
"Hinata, Naruto, Sasuke." Kitodo called out. "You three are the deciding factors here. Fu, you will be included, but be careful of what happens. We will let you know if something comes up that puts you in danger."
"Thank you, sir." Fu said. "I should be getting back to my own village. I hope to see you again one day, Naruto."
"Sure thing, Fu. Just know that I'm already engaged. If not for that, I would probably want you to be there too." Naruto added.
"Naruto..." Hinata said, though she was smiling, her voice held something behind it.
"Hey, Naruto. Didn't you say you had a bloodline?" Sasuke asked. Naruto's eyes widened, as did Hinata's and Fu's.
"OH SHIT! THAT'S RIGHT!" Naruto shouted.
"What?" Suzaku asked.
"The Clan Restoration Act. It would be likely the Council would place me under it, and I'd be forced to take multiple wives!" Naruto said. "Thing is, I don't want my bloodline to be known to anyone that doesn't already know."
They all nodded. Hinata looked at Fu. She analyzed her, and even activated the Byakugan to add to it. "She's good in my book. If you want to go for the CRA, I'd gladly welcome her in. As an added bonus, this might strengthen relationships with Takigakure."
Sasuke grunted. "Well then, I think we're done here." he looked at Felgrand and they both nodded before leaving.
"Shall we leave you 3 alone?" Kitodo asked.
"Nah, I think we're good like this. Hinata and I will need to know as much as we can before we see each other out there, in case I do go for it." Naruto added. "Well, let's go for it."
-Sunagakure-
A red headed male was standing in a room with a male in a black cat suit, and a sandy blonde female in a battle kimono. There was also another, older male in the room. "And that's why you have tasked to do this."
A small Tanuki appeared in front of the red head. "Sabaku no Gaara, I presume?"
"Who are you? Speak quickly, or die."
"The Tanuki have news for you, but only you can hear it. We must go where no one else can to tell you this. It deals with your condition." The small Tanuki said.
Gaara looked at the thing. The other three looked at him in fear. "Let's go." They both left in a swirl of sand.
They were in the middle of the desert. "What do the Tanuki want with me?"
"They wish to warn you of events that are coming. There has been alliance made that will be handling the threat, but you are also to know of it. No one else can know." he replied. "Also, if you are going to the Chuunin Exams in Konohagakure, then seek out a boy by the name Naruto Uzumaki. He is like you, a Jinchuuriki of a Bijuu. He is also a part of this alliance. He is not to be killed, and Lady Shukaku would realize the dangers of upsetting the Phoenixian Alliance, which has added the Mount Myoboku Toads, Slugs, and Monkey Clans."
Gaara, though normally not one to show emotion, had his eyes widen. "Mother said that something was up."
"I know you call Lady Shukaku your mother. She is not your real mother, but can be a substitute. Lady Shukaku, if you can hear me, The Bane of the Bijuu has returned, and he is after the Juubi. The Bijuu are being filled in as we speak."
"This is top priority." Gaara said, his face steely cold. "Let the Jinchuuriki in Konohagakure know that something is up with the Kazekage. He has been acting highly strange, lately. No one else realizes it, but I do. As to what this means, I do not know, but it cannot be good."
"That Jinchuuriki can also take a look at your seal. We believe it to be screwed up, and those in Konohagakure may be able to fix it. For now, act as you have been, but show special interest in Naruto Uzumaki. No one else should know he is a Jinchuuriki, and therefore like you, because he is mentally stable."
Gaara was a little surprised. "If he is like me, then there must be a difference between our upbringing."
"No, he was, and still is, hated by the majority in his village. Near as I can figure the few bonds he has, keep him going. I hear from the Kitsune Clan that his Drive, his reason to keep going, is to protect. For now, play the part you already are, and don't let anyone else know what you do. This is the best action for all of us. We will receive word from the Kitsune or Phoenix Clan for when your seal will be fixed. And now for the final piece." A scroll appeared.
"And what is this?" Gaara asked, though his tone held malice.
"The Tanuki Summoning Contract. Lady Shukaku may allow a small amount of blood to sign this. Once signed, we can go directly to you, instead of having to appear in a random location in the desert, only having to find you through her."
Gaara waited for a moment and nodded. The sand cut his thumb enough for it to bleed, and it did sting a bit. He signed his name, as he was told to, and then imprinted his fingertips. The wound was already healed by that point. "Lady Shukaku will teach you the signs, as I can't do much else there. Until next time." The Tanuki disappeared into smoke.
Gaara sighed. 'Mother, how long do I have to keep up the Blood Crazed maniac act?'
"Only until that fool of a father of yours is dead. At least, that was the original plan. It seems as if he already is dead. For now, we shall wait until the end of the invasion. Act and react as you would in your normal state. I will send you the chain later on. Avoid killing the Uzumaki, if anyone else, he is to survive. I'm not about to go up against the Phoenixian Alliance. That's a death wish, even for a Bijuu. It's too bad my mentality would make me grow insane when you release me with the Playing Possum Jutsu. And your village calls that a seal? As long as I'm in here, I am still somewhat sane."
'I understand, mother.'
"You did hear him say that I'm not your real mother, correct?"
'Yes, but you are the only one close enough for that position. My father doesn't even act like you say a father should.'
"That's because he's a power hungry idiot. Let's get back, before they get scared and start rioting."
'Yes mother.' Gaara left in a Sand Shunshin.
00000x00000
Alright, that last part is another way for me to say that Gaara isn't truly insane, and is doing a similar thing to Naruto. He put up a mask of hatred. Naruto put up the one of a Class Clown, and happy idiot.
Also, it would seem as if Shukaku and Gaara are truly on good terms here. As explained in earlier chapters, the Bijuu were regular demons, affected by the Juubi's sealing. All 9 Bijuu are that way, and can be purified.