The Burning Leaves

by ajd09

Naruto has saved his friend and lead to the destruction of Madara. The nations have prospered. However, twenty peaceful years pass and still someone lurks, waiting to take his mark. Will this new generation get caught in the middle of a rising threat? A long fic, recommended for readers who like the focus on future generation OC . Mostly from canon predictions. Now is Alternate TL.

25. Family Ties

Chapter 25: Family Ties

In the secluded training area, Lili finished impatiently listening to Yuuki and Isami's plan. With some brief silence, Lili sighed. "I understand. I'm willing to cooperate."

Yuuki pulled back. "Wait, really? That easy?"

Lili smirked. "How can I prove how much better I am if you end up dead?" The blond crossed her arms. "Besides, your brother is well respected in the lightning village. Any plan he ask me to help with, I have no choice but to accept."

Yuuki nodded, rubbing her chin. "You're a frustrating rival, that's for sure." She punched her fist together. "Alright, there's a prerequisite to performing this technique. That is, if you can manage to pull it off." Yuuki reassessed Lili's chakra with her byakugan. Her chakra has grown well since her defeat. I'd say it's about four-fifths the size of Datsu's.

Lili sweat slightly. "What are you staring at, you imbecile? What prerequisite?"

Yuuki shifted her eyes away, annoyed. "Not that the prospect of giving away family jutsus more than once sits well with me, but you need to learn the shadow clone technique."

Lili scratched her chin, interested. "Oh?" Lili culminated her thoughts. Kage Bunshin no jutsu, eh? That's Isami and the Hokage's favorite technique. Imagine how much more respect I'll earn knowing that technique at home! Lili began to laugh haughtily.

Yuuki felt her annoyance rise before feeling a watcher behind her. She turned, knowing the two well. "Alright, come out. Both of you!"

Yuuki's cousin tripped out of behind the bushes followed by Inora. The Akamichi spoke casually, crossing her arms out of behind her back. "Sheesh, I told you. You're too loud, Kumi."

Yuuki sighed, putting her arms on her hips. "Kumi, you shouldn't be out and about at this time."

Kumi puffed her cheeks, looking to the side. "I'm not a little kid, alright!" Seeing her boss's unamused stare made her pull back. The girl pointed at Inora quickly. "Besides, she's the one who asked me to track you down, honest!"

Inora giggled slightly, rubbing her head. "I figured you'd be doing something interesting after you disappeared with your brother for so long. We're going to be teammates for a while, so why not clue me in on some things, best buddy!"

The Uzumaki rubbed her head. "You know you can't butter me up, Inora." Yuuki evaluated the situation before nodding. "Alright, looks like both of you are going to learn a new technique tonight."

Kumi jumped up in anger. "Hey, what about me? I'm going to be a genin soon!"

Yuuki smirked at her. "Hey now, that's not what someone doing the teaching should say!" Kumi looked up in surprise.

Lili stepped forward. "Are you implying she knows how to use shadow clones?"

Yuuki nodded. "It took her some time, since she was pretty green, but she did an excellent job executing the technique. Besides, she's been using the byakugan like a pro since she was six!"

Inora pulled back. "Not bad! She's gonna be waay stronger than you, Yuuki!"

Kumi beamed at the compliments and fired up. "Alright! Yuuki told me not to ever show anyone, but I guess that's changed. Get ready to be awed." Kumi stood still, showing the hand seal. Lili and Inora looked at each other and shrugged. They mimicked the one seal and waited. Kumi stared in stern determination. "Alright, now you need to equalize your chakra, feel it leave you. At that time, you need to mold the physical portion of the chakra into your shape. It's like you're trying to envision looking at yourself in a mirror." Kumi smirked. "Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!"

Kumi formed three clones to Yuuki's surprise. "You've been practicing, haven't you, Kumi?" She a hand on her hip. "Be careful with your chakra though."

The girl crossed her arms confidently. "I have the byakugan, I can tell when I'm running low."

Lili was first to give it a go. "Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!" Inora was quick to follow, and in a puff of smoke, they both successfully executed the technique.

Kumi pulled back. "Ah, no way! It took me, like, an hour to do it!" She rubbed her chin. "So this must mean I'm naturally a better teacher than boss."

Yuuki snickered, not having the heart to tell her how easy the technique really was, provided you had the chakra for it. Now, as she looked between the enthusiasms everyone had, she couldn't help but feel like giving more. Kumi probably only has just enough chakra to use this once, but I can tell she's going to grow quite strong soon. She cleared her throat. "Listen up, Kumi." Kumi snapped to attention, ready to hear her words. Yuuki continued. "We three are going to be going on a mission soon, and we won't be back for a very long time. You need to continue down your own path soon."

Kumi deflated slightly. "B-but how long is very long? There's so much I want to learn from you!" Yuuki felt the words slightly strumming her emotional chord. Kumi looked down. "I never expected you to become so strong! The way you fought in those finals…I...I want to be able to do that to!"

Yuuki put her hand on Kumi's shoulder, prompting her to stare up. "You're already stronger and smarter than I was. However, I agree; I promised to show you my new awesome technique, right?" Kumi wiped her eyes, nodding. Yuuki looked over to Lili and Inora. "I've decided. I want everyone here to learn this technique."

Lili stepped in, intrigued. "And what would that be?" Inora focused hard, smiling after deducing what it must be.

Yuuki nodded. "Well, I'm sure you won't be opposed." Yuuki put her palm out, letting her chakra form into the deadly rasengan.

Kumi jumped around, almost uncomfortably. "I knew it! I knew this is what you were going to show me! You're the best boss!"

Lili took a step forward, hesitant. "Yuuki! Are you really sure about that? Half of my village practically worships that technique, and like Tsumi said, only your family has known that technique."

Inora glanced at Lili, looking back to Yuuki. She waved her hands. "Don't put me in her crowd. Teach away, Yuuki-Senpai!"

The Uzumaki smiled, nodding. "That's surprising. I'm almost certain you belong to one of the worshipers, Lili." The girl blushed, showing frustration. Yuuki let the technique fade away. "However, your response reaffirms my decision. I don't need every ninja in the world running around with our technique, but it will help us to be ready for anything." She ruffled Kumi's hair. "Although you're going to need some patience, since your chakra hasn't blossomed yet." Kumi nodded enthusiastically. Yuuki now brought her hand to her chin. "Lili, don't forget. I need your chakra as high as possible for tomorrow. After we're done, I'll be teaching everyone. It's late, so meet here at noon, alright?" She scratched her head. "Oh, and someone grab Datsu while they're at it."

OoOoOoOo

Tsumi crossed her arms, nodding. Looking over their stat cards, it was clear they need to have some more training in broader fields. "Well, these stat cards look pretty ugly, that's for sure." The group deflated. She looked between them. "What do you think the major thing in common you three lack is?"

Kobi piped up. "We aren't that high in intelligence?" She shook her head.

"Kenjutsu. Why? None of us use weapons." Tsumi waved that off.

Chojiko shifted around. "We really stink at using ninja tools?"

Tsumi face-palmed. "Well, yeah, but stop. It's your chakra levels. You need more chakra so you can have a better base of moves."

Chojiko grunted. "That's the one thing we can't fix though, right? Genetics are all that matter with that stat."

Kobi scratched his nose. "Not really. Your twin sister seems to have the most of everyone bar the Uzumakis and Datsu."

Shitto nodded. "Good assessment." They stared at him, making him nervous. "I don't always phrase things as matter of fact. Why? Because it's tedious." He paused. "Damn."

Tsumi went back to her point. "Kobi's dead on. Isami theorizes that one can increase their chakra levels by running it low frequently while maintaining good physical training. Since chakra is made up of spirit and physical aspects, it makes since. The problem is how much you really want to become stronger. A stronger spirit can be harder to gain than a stronger body.

Kobi pounded his fist. "That's great news! It's just like working your muscles to make them stronger!"

Chojiko cringed. "But I'm not very good at training my body either."

Tsumi sighed. "Yeah, we need to work on that. Your sister should be an example to you on that one."

"Kenjutsu. Why?" Shitto was ready to make a case.

"Oh my god, I know! Shut it already! If you don't work one step at a time, you won't get better!" Tsumi took a breath and sighed.

The group felt their heads dip low, intimidated. "Damn." Shitto added.

Kobi leaned back, staring up. "It's late. We should worry about this tomorrow. Even if this idea doesn't work out..." Kobi looked down with a serious face. "I don't know about what's best for everyone, but I'm going to try to go to sleep better than I was every night."

Tsumi smirked, petting ripper. "That's the secret. It's as simple as working on your weaknesses and pushing yourself harder and harder. It doesn't need to be drastic, just something."

Chojiko looked at the couple bags of chips he had left. "Maybe you have a point." Instead of munching on more, he tucked them away. "I do love food, but there isn't much of a point in eating all these snacks. At this point, I've been eating just to do something. If I'm not using the calorie burn technique..." Chojiko clinched his fist. "what's the point to all this gluttony? Can I really stop this?"

Kobi jumped back up. "Whoa man, that turned to a pretty serious tone. You're not gonna go vegen, are you?"

Chojiko laughed rubbing his head. "My sister isn't even vegen, as much as she acts like she is. Don't worry, I'm just talking about all these snacks. I really get carried away." He looked at his stomach. "Although I think it's going to be pretty rough on me for a bit." The boy sighed. "That's what meals are for, I guess."

Shitto pulled back, pocketing his hands. "Damn." They looked at him. "If I can talk with this group, there's no reason I can't talk more with others, I suppose."

Ripper barked enthusiastically, making Tsumi smile. "You guys are really cleaning up, huh?"

Kobi and the others laughed, even though Shitto's laugh was incredibly awkward. They all put their fist in. Kobi looked between them. "Here's to the bottom three. Let's get out there and shock 'em, right?"

-The following day at dawn-

Lili clenched her fist, looking out to the trees. It was a slightly chilly autumn morning, but the breeze was subtle and the forest was as gentle as ever. The way the sun danced around the clouds and through the leaves left a beautiful impression in her mind. Truly, a scene like this was only one you could experience in the Land of Fire. Lili couldn't help but smile.

"Aww, how cute."

Lili swung around, flushed. "Y-Yuuki! How long have you been there?!"

She snickered. "I've been here for like, five minutes."

Lili crossed her arms, looking away. "Whatever, creep. You leaf ninja have to be bored growing up in a place this peaceful."

Yuuki rubbed her head. "Well, yeah. It is boring as hell." Lili let her continue. "However, the true peace that it once had is gone. I never thought I'd want it back so badly." Yuuki smiled, looking over to a small river. "Always fighting with Noriko, training with Takeshi, fighting strategy over tactics with Shikamira…" She glanced over to see Isami. "Constantly telling my brother how annoying he is and how much better Hitomi would have been as an older sibling."

Lili noticed her brother, but looked back to the trees. "There's a lot material things I wanted growing up in my village. When I looked back, they were all pointless thoughts." The two looked to her as she glinted a smile. "But, since you mentioned it, it seems less nostalgic than before." Lili extended her hand out to Yuuki. "I'll help you out, just because you seem like you desperately need it."

Yuuki felt the shock wipe away, accepting the hand shake. "More like you look like you need a reason to keep annoying me."

Isami nodded, crossing his arms. He looked over Yuuki's chakra levels. "Looks like you've been at it for some time, huh?" Yuuki wobbled slightly, nodding. He smirked. "If this works out, it'll be the last time I see my sister for a bit, isn't it?"

"Oh, get over it." Yuuki stretched before smirking. "Even if I don't look the same, I'm sure I'll have to bail you out of something soon."

Isami rubbed his head. "You might be right about that!" As they calmed down, he looked to Lili. "Do you know how to use shadow clones?"

Lili nodded. "Yes. How does this work then?"

Isami used his hands while he talked. "Well, if it goes how we hope it does, you will try to use all of your chakra. Just place your hand on Yuuki's back and focus with all your strength on making a shadow clone. After that, Yuuki will dispel the clone, which will overwhelm the fact that she has no chakra left." Isami paused slightly before continuing. "After that, Yuuki should, in theory, be a genetic match to you. No byakugan, no ice-release, and most importantly, a chakra pool matching yours."

Lili bit her thumb. "That's...a lot to take in. Are you really sure about this, Yuuki."

Yuuki gestured reassuringly. "I'm sure it's going to be a pretty crazy experience, but it's for the sake of keeping this pseudo-peace for just a bit longer. It's not permanent as far as I know, so don't worry."

Lili nodded, clinching her fist. "Fine, then let's get this over with."

Isami piped in. "It'll probably hurt a lot Yuuki. I'm here if anything goes to hell."

Yuuki turned around, putting up her hand seal. "I'm leaving it in your hands then." Lili put her hand on Yuuki's back, focusing hard. "Kage Bunshin No Jutsu!"

With a cloud of smoke, Yuuki's clone took the complete shape of Lili. The clone looked itself over before looking back up. "So far, so good." Lili plopped down, breathing heavy.

Isami looked her over and nodded. "You did well to use almost all of your chakra. I'll be able to help you out in a minute."

Yuuki clenched her fist, looking back to Isami. "Well, I guess this is goodbye for now. Not that we're going anywhere yet."

Isami smiled. "Don't sweat it! If this rolls over like it should, you'll just have a different name and face. Not like that changes who you are."

Yuuki put the seal up once more, surprised to feel water building up in her eyes. "You're right about that." She looked at the clone who nodded. "Release!"

With a puff of smoke, Yuuki went down on her knee, grabbing her head in pain. Her whole body felt like it was being both shocked and burned at the same time. Her uncontrollable screams made flocks of birds fly as she rolled to the floor, feeling even her bones shifting slightly. Isami knelt over her with intense focus, utilizing every precaution. Once the screams became less frequent, Lili was able to open her eyes without feeling horrible. Isami propped her up, applying some better numbing chakra. Lili looked over the girl, seeing familiarities.

"Amazing." Yuuki's short hair had grown a couple of inches and had become blond. Her skin had become fairer and tanner. The facial features were softer, looking more like Lili than Yuuki. The girl's attire resembled Lili's, only slightly showing some more traditional lightning ninja armor. Her outfit was overall less extravagant than Lili's aswell. "It really worked, didn't it? She looks like she could be my sister more than yours."

Isami let her rest, turning to Lili. "Technically, she is your sister right now."

Lili shifted around, uncomfortable. "This almost too much to believe."

Isami put a hand on her shoulder, siphoning chakra from Yuuki to Lili. Lili was shocked as she felt her strength return. "Genetically compatible chakras can be transferred between siblings. The fact that this works proves that this was a success." Isami formed a complex seal Yuuki's back right shoulder, then coating it over with two more seals.

Lili looked them over. "What is that seal?"

Isami scratched his head. "The first one is to seal her into stability, so she doesn't revert back to herself. The other two are…well, they're for emergencies." Isami rubbed his chin. "I suppose we really need to think of a convincing name now, don't we?"

Lili thought quickly, returning her gaze to the trees. With a spark of inspiration she spoke. "What about Akiko?"

Isami laughed heartily, looking back to his resting sister. "Akiko, child of autumn, eh? I suppose that's fitting and subtle enough. Not bad."

Lili looked back to him as he rose. "Isami-san." Her face flustered as she looked away. "What's it like...having a sibling?"

He looked to her surprised, and then rubbed his head. "Honestly, it's frustrating. At times, it seems like you can never get along with each other, and you're always thinking of ways to tease each other." Isami rubbed his chin. "I guess there are some instances where siblings just can't get along...However, to me, there's no one you'd sooner turn to when you need to share your true feelings...and..." Isami grinned, rubbing his head. "Well, you can understand each other without any need for words. I'd say it makes me pretty happy."

Lili looked back to Yuuki before smirking. "Sounds tedious. Are you leaving?"

Isami pocketed his hands. "Yeah. I gotta let everyone know she's alright and her new name."

Lili crossed her arms. "You know the whole thing, right? Teruya. She's Teruya Akiko now."

Isami stopped, nodding his head. "I figured you had to be one. Anyways…" With a swirl of leaves, Isami was off.

"Teruya Akiko, huh?" A foreign, yet familiar voice entered, making Lili leap. Akiko sat up, looking herself over, trying her best to stretch off the soreness. "Man, it feels weird when my voice is a little deeper than I'm used to."

Lili recovered. "Yu-" she shook her head. "Akiko, you probably shouldn't be moving to much right now. How long were you awake?"

The girl rose, taking the time to stretch her legs harder. "Only long enough to hear your full name." Her body felt like she'd trained for a week straight. She checked out her attire, willing to go along with it. "Akiko. It's not bad, and it's definitely far off from Yuuki."

Lili pulled back. "Shouldn't you be avoiding the name?"

Akiko shrugged. "Not really. Yuuki is still in the village, so as long as it stays that way, it'll be fine. Just don't directly refer to me as that. I don't know how good this guy is, but…" She clenched her fist one more time before looking back up. "There's no way he's this good."

Lili crossed her arms with a smirk. "I suppose you're right about that, little sister."

Akiko glared at her, feeling the sting of the words. "So that's how that feels…"

OoOoOoOo

"So, she really went through with it, huh?" Takeshi pocketed his hands, looking off in the distance. Nagi crossed his arms, judging his peers' reaction.

Kobi scrunched his face. "I don't really understand how they pulled it off, but if that's what's best, I guess we shouldn't complain."

Tegun nodded. "It's not like its permanent! Lili is pretty tough, so I wouldn't worry too much about it."

Isami agreed with a smile. "Tegun is correct; she fully understood the risk and benefits. Remember, you should call her 'Akiko' for now. We won't really have to worry about it for much longer, but just keep it in mind."

Nagi finished his thoughts. "Right, if there's anything I know my cousin can do, it's think of the best course of action. Even if her strength has decreased immensely, I still doubt half of us could compete with her."

Isami waved them off, leaving them to their business. Kobi punched his fist together. "Look at her, always making insane choices and pushing forward. It makes me want to give her a run for her money."

Tegun slapped Takeshi on the back hard with a laugh. "Hey, I know some great ways to use that energy!"

Takeshi snapped back to. "Why'd you hit me?" Now, the Uchiha looked between his friends. The fire in their eyes was evident. The teen pocketed his hands with a smirk. "Well, I do know a pretty good training field."

Out of nowhere, a boy came running up to the group, still running in place. "Hey, pinkeye, where's training field 'team seven' at!"

Takeshi pulled back. "Datsu? What'd you call-"

The man waved his arms frantically, then pointing up. "It's noon! Yuuki's got some team meeting going on or something. Just point fool!" Takeshi unenthusiastically pointed the way. Datsu made it ten steps before running backwards to them. He frantically dug through his pockets. "Damn it, here! You all need to know some jutsus so I can wipe the floor with you properly." Takeshi pointed to himself, making him slap his forehead. "Not you, fool!" Before they knew it, Datsu was off to the races once more.

Tegun watched him the whole way. "That guy's really hyper-active, huh?"

Nagi looked at the paper in his hand. "Tell me about it. I feel tired in comparison." Kobi looked the paper over confused, prompting Nagi to ask. "So, what are these, Takeshi?"

Takeshi snapped out of his annoyance. "Oh, nice. Those are special chakra affinity papers. They're made of the best material out there. Channeling chakra into them reveals your natural chakra affinity or affinities." Takeshi counted them out, slightly annoyed again. Why'd he give us twenty of these? Never mind. Takeshi channeled his chakra carefully, showing his paper crumble and turn to ash. "My primary nature is earth and then fire."

Tegun followed suit. The paper quickly wrinkled. "I assume that's lightning. Just the one, huh?"

Nagi nodded, following suit. His paper crumbled and became soggy. "And I assume I'm equally aligned to earth and water."

They shifted their eyes over to Kobi, who was sweating. "Why even bother...This is where I find out I'm not good at any nature." He channeled his chakra and watched. The paper split in half, one half caught fire and the other became wrinkled and soggy. The group stared awkwardly in silence as Kobi dipped his head. "What a waste."

Takeshi exploded out. "Four? How the hell Kobi? You of all people?"

Nagi rubbed his chin. "This is pretty upsetting, that's for sure. He doesn't even like ninjutsu."

Kobi waved his arms. "Now hold on a second! I'm planning on running my chakra dry every day until my pool grows. I need to learn them, even if I'm terrible at them."

Tegun pulled back. "That's unexpected. Who told you that was a good way to build chakra."

The group leaned in, curious. Kobi rubbed his head. "Well, Tsumi did. B-but it's an indirect theory of Isami!"

Takeshi nodded. "That makes sense. Kobi would've never bothered with that kind of training without his girlfriend telling him to."

Nagi nodded. "Indeed. Talk about whipped."

Kobi flared up. "Hey, screw you guys. We're not dating or anything. I don't see any of you giving out advice!"

Tegun punched his fist. "That's the spirit! We need to use that fire to get out there and beat each other to a pulp!"

Takeshi pulled back. "You're really intense about things, you know that?" He recovered. "I know another training field just as good as the one I was going to suggest. How about I show you all some jutsus? I know one for every nature."

Nagi nodded. "If there's anything I noticed in the last exams, it's that jutsus are not to be neglected. I suppose it's for the best. When we're done with that, maybe we can go on a race afterward." Nagi winked, looking over to Kobi. "We all now Kobi could use the practice."

Kobi didn't flare up, smirking instead. "Talk the talk while you can. The way I see it, I've got nowhere to go but up."

Takeshi scoffed, returning to a smile. "You sure you don't have a 'secret session' planned with Tsumi? I wonder what it is you've been studying all this time, man!"

Ripper barked as Kobi walked by him. "More than you know, man. I've got a hunch we're going to your house?"

Takeshi pulled back. What's with that confidence? "Easy tiger, it's best if I enter the house before everyone else. It can be life-threatening at times."

Tegun pumped his fist. "To train at the Uchiha estate. How exciting!" Nagi nodded, following behind everyone.

-Team 7 field: Noon-

Datsu arrived, out of breath. "I…I'm here. Don't you dare have sta-" Datsu pointed, not seeing Yuuki. Inora, Lili, and Kumi stared at him. Along with that, An older lightning ninja, Hitomi, and a mystery lightning ninja stared at him, all of them irked. His eyes twitched, looking over Akiko.

Hitomi crossed her arms impatiently. "Late by five minutes! Did you even listen when I told you where we would be?"

The other woman rested in deep thought. "Maybe he ran into a dozen deadly assassins…and he had to defeat them using only his right hand…then…"

Lili tapped her foot. "Sensei…"

The woman snapped to. "Ah, right. Datsu, not a good first impression."

The boy pointed right passed them at the other blond. "Who cares! Who is that girl!"

She became annoyed. "Datsu, you idiot. Do you really not know, or should I remind you who the leader of the real team seven is?"

The boy tilted his head. "Wait, Yu-" Datsu could feel his cheeks warm slightly.

Inora muffled his mouth with a smirk. "Now now, from now on we have to call her 'Akiko'. Teruya Akiko, got it?"

The boy relaxed, crossing his arms. "Don't really get it, but it's for protection, right?"

Hitomi pulled back. "Wow, there's a brain in there somewhere?"

Datsu looked back over the group, looking down at the other girl. "And who's that? Looks like she has the byakugan."

Kumi stuck her tongue out. "I'm Isami's and Nagi's cousin, if you must know. Sarutobi Kumi."

The clock ticked in his head before pounding his fist. "Ah! That means you're the daughter of Takeshi's sensei, the erupting smoker!" He paused for a moment, feeling a lack of important information. "Why are you here?"

Akiko stepped forward, still sluggish. "If you would just let people tell you, you wouldn't look so foolish. This woman is Hoshido's sister and Lili's sensei. Her name is Hotaru. Kumi is here for the same reason our peers are. I'm going to teach you all the rasengan."

The clocks ticked once again in Datsu's head before snapping to. "Oh, you mean that chakra ball thing, right?" Akiko squinted, sensing the reaction to be disingenuous.

Hitomi face-palmed. "Boy, you must be pretty hard hearing. Yes, Akiko has decided to teach this group the rasengan. Count yourself lucky."

Hotaru smirked. "I felt it was important to show up, since I'll be joining the group back to the lightning village. Hitomi and I are going to depart for today, but we both agree that we should be meeting every day to prepare ourselves for the trip. I look forward to working with you…" the woman jolted. "which may lead to a fight…where our enemy out number us eleven to six…" She fuddled around in her head. "And we're forced to split up...Where I almost-"

Hitomi grabbed the jonin. "Enough, let's go already!"

As they departed, Akiko regained control of the situation. "Alright, I've gathered these from my dad. He already approved of this." Yuuki tossed them each a pair of rubber balls. "You've probably noticed how thick the rubber is. Your goal is to first destroy one with chakra power alone. After that, you have to destroy the other spinning the chakra only." After she finished, a loud burst sent Datsu flying back, shocking everyone but Akiko. "I figured you could do that just like I did."

Datsu stood up, rubbing his head. "Guess that's simple enough."

Akiko raised her hand. "No, it's not. People like us started using chakra way to dense. Others have to really push to achieve that." Akiko demonstrated the three stages in the ground before continuing. "I doesn't seem to matter which order you do the first two in, but it's important you really master the spin portion. Moving all that chakra into a tight spiral takes a lot of focus." Akiko crossed her arms. "I think everyone can at least burst the ball with chakra fairly quickly. Don't underestimate how hard it is though."

Inora, Lili, and Kumi began trying themselves. After a moment, both Inora and Lili managed to destroy the ball around the same time. Kumi looked down. "So, this is the difference between chunin and academy."

Akiko pulled her aside. "Don't sweat it. It took my dad a couple days to destroy one of these suckers. Just think of something that really gets under your skin and let your rage create the power."

Kumi nodded. "Thanks. I'll knock this out in no time, just wait!"

Akiko smirked. "Just don't over-do it." She turned to the rest. "For this stage, you have to know how to spin your chakra properly." She smiled. "Lucky for you three, I've seen your chakra coils. Datsu, you're counter-clockwise, and both of you are clockwise."

Datsu pumped his fist, creating fifty clones. "Yosh! Enough messing around, lets figure this out quick!"

Inora and Lili looked at each other, shrugging. Within a moment, they too were able to produce twenty-five clones comfortably. Akiko nodded. "Don't forget to help each other while you're at it."

A loud burst rang out behind her, making her jolt. She looked back to see Kumi on the floor. "Owowow, that hurt my ears, boss!"

She laughed, shaking her head. "You really are full of surprises. Maybe you'll be able to keep up with me at this rate."

Kumi jumped up, pumping her fist. "That's right! Once I learn this technique, you're not my boss anymore. You'll be my sworn rival!"

Akiko smirked. "Says the girl who has no chakra left."

Kumi stepped back. "How'd you know?"

She snickered. "I didn't really, but you just told me. Give it an hour and you'll probably be good to go."

The girl sat back down, leaning against a tree. "I guess I can watch them for now."

Akiko nodded, looking back. Inora had already called back her clones, trying to spin out the ball. After grunting and putting in a lot of effort, she successfully made the ball hiss out. After this, she left the chakra to spin, seeing the similarities to one of Yuuki's techniques. She raised it. "Hey, looks like I win this round. This looks pretty close to a disc, huh?"

Akiko pulled back. To think Inora was the first to get it. Both Lili and Datsu looked back, still awaiting for the opportune time. Akiko pulled Inora aside. "Pretty impressive, Inora." she pulled out a bag of balloons. "However, this part is going to be a bitch. You need to compact the power and spin as much as possible so it can fit inside the balloon without popping it." She showed a slow version of the technique so Inora could see it tied together. "This will take patience. Don't be afraid to take your time, it'll use a lot of chakra."

Inora nodded. "Got it. I know when to call it quits, don't worry about me."

Akiko was pleasantly surprised by Inora's work ethic. "I look forward to fighting you someday when I'm at full strength. You really are a natural, after all." Inora perked up before skipping off to work.

OoOoOoOo

Naruto leaned back with a satisfied look. "I knew you two could pull it off. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't worried, but you made a good call."

Hinata sat next to Naruto, breathing a sigh of relief. "Our children have really grown, haven't they?"

Isami rubbed his head with a smile. "It's only natural. Yuuki surprises me on a daily basis." He scrunched his face in thought. "Are you sure about letting her teach more people shadow clones and the Rasengan though?"

The Hokage leaned forward, crossing his arms. "It's hard on me, but I can't be stubborn about it. I was opposed to the idea, but she made the right points. What matters right now is preparing our allies for what comes next."

Konohamaru picked at his food. "And I was looking forward to the day I'd teach Kumi the rasengan. Seems like I don't get to teach anyone these days…"

Naruto slouched himself. "I know your pain."

Hinata rubbed his back as Hanabi entered the room. "You bunch of whiners. If you want to help that badly, go out and help. No one is going to stop you."

Naruto and Konohamaru stared at each other for a moment. Hinata nudged him slightly. "Go on, I'm sure it's a handful for your daughter."

Isami waved them off from behind. "I can't always pick up your slack, pops. I've got some business to arrange."

Naruto crossed his arms. "Watch out for Sasuke, I think the bastards got something in for you."

Isami laughed. "What a coincidence."

Hanabi crossed her arms. "What a strange boy you have."

"I don't really think so." Konohamaru stood, stretching his arms. "He's his own man. That's how men should be."

Hanabi rolled her eyes. "Bring Kumi back by dinner. And don't smoke around her!"

Konohamaru slouched slightly. "Yes, dear."

"This should be some nice change in pace, eh?" Naruto pumped up, rushing his old rival out the door. "I've been cooped up in that office too much."

Hinata waved him off. "Don't get carried away, honey!" Before they knew it, the sisters were all that remained at the Uzumaki estate. She sighed. "So, what's the latest drama?"

Hanabi smirked, ready to unload. "Do you know what he did this time?" They settled in close, ready to trade stories.

OoOoOoOo

Sasuke held a relaxed demeanor, keeping his hands in his pocket. He watched as Takeshi instructed his friends on various aspects of chakra techniques and the fun he seemed to be having. Just as a smile cracked, a knock came over the door. He was quick to answer it, ready to shoo any idiot out.

"Uchiha-san!" As the door opened, Sasuke did his best to slam it to no avail. Isami had planted his foot in the door, slightly peeking through. "I'm not here to play around. I need a few words with you."

The Uchiha scoffed, allowing him entry. He leaned against the counter, staring at him. "My patience only last so long. State your business."

The young Uzumaki stood strong, showing little weakness. "I know you and my father are intent on sparring soon. I'd like to ask you not to do that until after tomorrow."

Sasuke raised an eyebrow. "Oh yeah? Sorry boy, it's been far too long since I've had a fulfilling fight. You better have a good reason, or else this conversation is over."

Isami crossed his arms. "If I didn't have so much to do today, I'd give you a better answer. However..." Isami stared him directly in the eyes. "I'd like to formally challenge you to a fight. Tomorrow, at a place of my choosing."

The Uchiha chuckled in amusement. "You're not even worth my time. What makes you think I need to hold off on sparring with Naruto for something like that?"

Isami smirked. "Because if you don't, you might not like the outcome. This is earlier than I wanted to fight you, but I'm dead serious."

Sasuke closed his eyes in thought. This is the first time a conversation between us has even lasted this long...And those eyes... He kicked off, now unsheathing his arms. "I figured you'd walk in here one day talking nonsense. I'll warn you, there's a high probability I won't be able to hold back."

The Uzumaki reached for the door. "That's good to hear. I'm pretty tired of holding back myself." As he opened the door, he turned to his opponent. "It's not my business, but you're his father and an excellent role model. You should get out and spend some time with your son before he leaves." With a quick shut, Isami was gone.

Sasuke clinched his fist, shifting his eyes back outside. "Where did his confidence come from?" As he relaxed them, he proceeded to the door. "To fight someone other than Naruto…" For once in a long while, Sasuke felt his annoyance grow into excitement. "I suppose things could be worse."

OoOo

Isami walked tensely down the road. "Whew, that went better than expected. That atmosphere was pretty intense."

Just as the thought completed, Isami was run into by a familiar ninja. "Ah, my bad Isami-san. I was just thinking and running, you know me. Gotta go."

Isami turned to the man quickly. "Hey, Tekaku!" He turned with a confused look. "Where's Asumaru hiding?"

He rubbed his head. "Shikamira was being pretty scary with him. She dragged him off with some friends to train more. I didn't pay attention to it very much."

Isami raised his arm. "Alright, thanks. Have fun." The boy zipped off before Isami could finish his sentence. Isami chuckled. "Well, I guess he's eager as ever to spar with his cousin." He rubbed his chin with his byakugan active. "Looks like he's training with Shikamira, Tsumi, Hoshido, and Kankiri. Guess that's outta the question." He scanned around further. "Kochi is busy fighting those river ninjas." He rubbed his head. "Man, looks like I'm outta things to do. At least Sasuke doesn't know that." With a scan, he noticed Hitomi and Hotaru at the hot springs. The man shed a smirk. "Well, I suppose I could just so happen to be in the area."

OoOoOoOo

Akiko lounged back against a tree. "Man, I'm already pretty beat."

Kumi leaned on the other side of the tree and nodded. "This is a lot harder than I thought it'd be."

A shade stood over her, making her open her eyes. "That's unexpected, Akiko." She shot up, not expecting her father to be there.

Kumi jumped up when she noticed her father. "Well well, I never expected this duo to be giving out excuses."

"I was just thinking! It's not like I was lounging around." Kumi puffed out her cheeks, turning away.

Konohamaru laughed heartily. "That's better. We're not here to get in the way. What do you say I help you out today, huh?"

Kumi felt sweat leak down. "Well, I guess if you're that desperate for something to do…"

Naruto nodded as they departed and turned back to his daughter. "Wow, you're eyes are pretty beautiful like that."

Akiko blushed. "Oh? I totally forgot my eyes wouldn't be all gloomy looking now!" She made a clone and looked at herself more closely. "You know, I haven't even really bothered at seeing what I look like now. It's so foreign and freaky."

Naruto laughed. "I'd be lying if I didn't say it freaked me out to! Looks like you're recovering well enough from it."

She crossed her arms. "Well, of course. It's still me we're talking about." She rubbed her arm. "I've just never felt so sore in my life."

The Hokage smiled. "That's the plight of a lot of ninja, but I guess I wouldn't know how it feels to have your whole body ripped into different proportions." Naruto let out a sweat. Probably no need to talk about that fight with Nagato. She made a disgusted gesture at the fatigue. "If it's any consolation, I used to get pretty bad burns from head to toe back in the day. I'd be all wrapped up like a mummy for a day."

The girl laughed. "I'll bet that was attractive."

He laughed with her. "Hey now, I rocked the bandage look!"

She put her hands on her hips. "Oh come on! Name one look that you've 'rocked'?"

He flinched, as if punched in the gut. "Ouch."

Akiko calmed down, looking at her friends still going at it. "They've been going for a few hours already. They've gotten through the second stage, but I think Datsu is going to have the most frustration on this stage."

Naruto rubbed his chin. "Datsu, eh? He reminds me a lot of someone…"

She poked her father in the chest. "He's you're long lost twin. Seriously though, he looks up to you more than anyone else. I'm sure that the pressure of learning another of your techniques is making it even harder."

Naruto rested his arms on his hips. "So, an airhead fool with too much chakra for his own good wanting to be a kage?"

She pulled back. "Well, he's not a complete 'air head'. He's actually a lot smarter than he's given credit for."

Naruto looked back to her, surprised. "Oh yeah?" He shifted his eyes between them with a grin. "Then I guess he won't mind if I step in and help him out, right?"

Akiko dropped her arms. "You serious? You're gonna help us out to?"

Her father rubbed his head. "Yeah, sorry. I wanted to help you learn, but Isami took that role too quickly. If you want me to let you handle it, that's fine to."

She waved her arms. "No really, that'd be great! It's hard splitting my advice among so many people. I can understand Lili and Inora much easier." She laughed. "Man, I know Datsu is going to be thrilled about it as well."

OoOo

Datsu trained harder, more isolated from the group. "Come on you idiot, it's not that hard. Power, spin, compress!" As it failed once more, he punched a hole in the ground. "Damn it! I refuse to give up!"

"You need to focus more." A voice rang out behind him that Datsu didn't fully recognize.

"Look, I don't know who you are, but I'm busy. Don't even think about trying to steal this technique either." Datsu turned, pointing a kunai, noting it was only an inch away from the man. As he looked up, he quickly froze. In an instant, he had his hands together in a plea. "I'm so sorry Hokage-sama! I didn't mean to learn those techniques or use your bathroom the other day! It just happens!"

Naruto pulled back. "Hey, too much information!" Datsu continued to apologize, before Naruto hit him upside the head firmly. "Man, you don't let people explain themselves do you?" The boy silenced, allowing Naruto to continue. "If you're going to go around using my techniques, you better be doing them better than anyone else!"

Datsu cursed under his breath. "I'm doing my best, sir! I just can't seem to tie it all together."

The Hokage crossed his arms. "I understand your formality, but cut it out. Just call me Naruto for now." Datsu's eyes jolted open. "It took me a few days to pull these steps together, but it was actually simpler than I expected." Naruto put a dot in the palm of his hand and formed the rasengan slowly. "All there is to it is focusing intently on what you're trying to do. Not overtaxing all the details, or getting too flustered to think. That was what I did wrong."

Datsu looked at his palm, clenching it a few times. "Is it really that simple? I've been using a hell of a lot of clones to get it right, but I still lose it."

Naruto waved his arms. "Forget how many clones you've used and how hard it seems. Just follow along with me, right now." Datsu snapped to, tensely holding up his palm. Naruto shook his head. "Wrong. I won't proceed until your mind is clear and every muscle is relaxed."

Datsu sweat, closing his eyes. "I'll do my best, but things like that aren't very easy for me." He didn't do bad, but he wasn't fully at rest.

Naruto smirked in thought. "I want you to imagine a casual flowing stream, walking along while feeling the breeze of a nice day. Just focus on that." The boy did so, able to recall his favorite training area in his village. His body relaxed, prompting him to continue. "Now, we're going to let that gentle stream be the chakra. Start allowing the stream to flow rapidly." Datsu did so, now closing his eyes. "Now, you can feel the wind picking up, swirling leaves around. It's whipping all around you. The river is growing more restless." Naruto smirked, seeing the results. "Now hold that picture in your hand. The raging power of the river, and the intense swirl of the breeze. You control the vision, now hold it in your hand! Only your hand can hold it! Don't let that stampeding current and that powerful wind destroy that peaceful scene!"

Datsu vividly imagined the intensity of the scenario. His favorite training area had gone from peaceful to out of control torrents of wind and rapids. With his hand, he did his best to take all that intensity out of his scenic picture. Datsu's eyes shot open, looking at his hand. "Ah! No way!"

Naruto grinned with a laugh. "Hey, you really are a lot like me! That's a pretty good looking Rasengan, Datsu!"

Datsu couldn't help but grin wildly before letting it disappear. "Once is luck." He held his hand out, easily able to recall the vivid detail, creating another rasengan with relative ease. "Wow!"

The Hokage ruffled Datsu's hair in excitement. "I told you. Results happen when you're completely relaxed and your mind is clear. That's the most important aspect of both combat and training!"

Datsu reached his arms forward, calling a rasengan out with one arm and then pushing himself to finally create one in the other. "Haha, you're right. Maybe I've been too meticulous about things."

Naruto's eyes widened. He couldn't even make one a second ago, but now he already make one in each hand? Naruto rubbed his chin. "Hey, you're doing so well, I've got another job for you. Even Yuuki doesn't know about it yet."

Datsu jumped to attention in anticipation. "No way! And you're telling me?"

Naruto rubbed his nose. "Sure, if you remember to relax more often. The rasengan alone is powerful, but it can be much, much more powerful." Naruto made two clones, which started adding odd things to the rasengan. Datsu watched as the rasengan turned a deep blue and became a sharp whistle of wind surrounding it. Datsu could feel the intense power of it before Naruto let it die out into nothing. "That, my friend, is the extent of what you can do by adding natures to the rasengan."

Datsu pumped his fist. "Amazing! I can't imagine how hard that must be."

Naruto rubbed his nose. "It's no easy feat, especially without shadow clones. You're quite skilled with water jutsus, so I'd take a crack at adding the water element to your rasengan. Don't get too worked up on how long it takes. Time is on your side."

Datsu shook his head in agreement. "I understand! Thank you so much Hokage." Datsu stopped himself. "No, Uzumaki Naruto. I'll definitely come back with something that will make you and the old man proud."

Naruto laughed. "Come on now, Rekano isn't all that old. He's younger than me in fact!" Datsu snickered at him, resting his arms behind his head.

OoOoOoOo

Takeshi placed his hands at his side, watching the group go through the motions. He felt his shoulders tighten as his father approached him. "Dad! Is there something you need?"

Sasuke grunted, keeping his hands in his pockets. "I'm bored today. What's with this group, practicing such basic stuff?"

Kobi stopped what he was doing. "Well, we're pretty bad at using chakra, sir. Apparently, the more frequently you use all your chakra, the larger your chakra pool can grow."

Sasuke looked amused. "That's not a bad theory. I know you didn't think of it, so who told you that?"

Takeshi rubbed his arm. "Uh, that was Isami I believe."

Sasuke pulled back, crossing his arms. "Thought it sounded stupid."

Tegun traced through the conversation, confused. "But you jus-"

Nagi silenced him. "You're right, it does sound foolish. However, the fact remains that we need to be more versatile in order to keep ourselves useful. For that, we're willing to try anything."

Sasuke scoffed, finally getting around to his purpose for being there. "I imagine you lot have gone through the finer portions of chakra control?" They collective nodded. The Uchiha continued. "You're not just blindly trying to learn natures, are you?"

Takeshi shook his head. "No, they just all discovered their affinities, so I taught them a couple jutsus to practice with."

Sasuke sighed. "That's only part of it, and it's not the best way to go about it." Sasuke pointed at Tegun. "You. You're lightning affinity, aren't you?"

Tegun silently nodded. "Yes sir."

Sasuke traced over his thoughts. "Let me see your best move involving lightning nature."

Tegun shrugged, coating himself in lightning chakra. He hopped around with his fist up and ready. "It's a bit hard to really get it going without fighting."

Sasuke rolled his eyes. "That's what I said. Use your best move against me." Tegun smirked, charging forward. He unleashed a flurry of his best combo, but Sasuke simply blocked every attack with one hand, grabbing the last punch. "Observe." Now, Sasuke let loose lightning chakra that sent Tegun back some ways.

Takeshi dropped his guard. "Why? Tegun's lightning armor packs a pretty good punch."

Kobi piped in, whispering in his ear. "Hey, didn't it seem like Takeshi's dad had a stronger version of the same thing?"

Sasuke shifted his eyes between them. "You shouldn't be surprised. There are several levels to nature manipulation. Even from a young age, I was quick to refine mine into a version that could beat most others." Sasuke smirked, looking down. "There's even someone who can use the ultimate level of the lightning nature in Kumo. The sharingan can't even copy it."

Tegun jumped up in excitement. "Whew, that was something. I didn't really consider it."

Takeshi looked at his fist. "So, the chidori is an example of that, right?"

Sasuke shook his head. "Not entirely. The chidori has a pretty high level of shape manipulation as well. Yours can be much stronger with the study of the nature."

Nagi stared in thought. Right, this is the finer details of ninjutsu. He looked back to Sasuke. "If I may, how can we practice advancing these natures on our own?"

Sasuke crossed his arms. "Understanding the nature is all there is to it. Then, you have to get hands on practice every day. Lightning is swift, decisive, and chaos. The more you can work with it to that degree, the better lightning you can use. Same goes with the other natures. Lucky for you, I understand every nature quite well." He looked over to Takeshi. "You'd do well to listen along."

Takeshi nodded, standing near his friends. He looked at his father. "You're a big help, dad. Thanks."

Sasuke scoffed, slightly amused. "I just can't stand seeing important things over looked, that's all."

Takeshi grinned. This is the last thing I expected, but hell if it's not a relief.

-End-

-A/N-

Just in case it doesn't make sense still, Yuuki is now referred to as Akiko for much of part one. The rasengan isn't going to be in everyone's move-set, don't worry. We're going to see a bit more training coming up. Did I forget something? Hmm…

Oh yeah: Isami vs. Sasuke! Finally, you're going to discover how Isami actually fights! The real question here is...just how large is the gap between third and second?