natsu00: I don't know about putting them... my mind sometime just spin by itself after all. as for chuunin exam, this chapter is the prequel before said exam.
Xerzo lotCN: Yeah, in her defense, Kurenai was a lesbian, so she has little to none womanly instinct/ Yep, pretty hard to make her attitude because she had so little screen time in both anime and manga, so I went with so little base/ yeah, he merely know that he has power, but he's still wasting them because of his inexperience/Haha, one by one, my dude, she will come in sooner or later.
olympaforged: huh? wdym? every people has their own circumstances, me, you or Naruto. and circumstances mold how people see the world, their attitudes, and even such a simple thing like preferences. so yes, Naruto's preference is because of his circumstances, the fact that he has no mother figure make him crave the girlfriend that could pamper him when he want to. the fact that he lives in a world where ninjas, people with power to kill normal people easily make him unconsciously want strong partners, so that they can at least defend themselves when he's not around etc etc.
anyway, that's that... and this chapter is mostly filler, but I hope everyone like it...
The charming gamer
Chapter 17, Another Clash
XXX XXX (Start) XXX XXX
Gently, a rather large eagle landed on Naruto's arm, with him calmly took the letter out from the bag tied to its claw. And after he placed the eagle on his window, he unfurled the letter and start to read.
The sender… is Mei.
[Naruto-kun, how are you? As for me, I'm more than fine. Water country has become stable since you keep giving us supplies and all, everyone also always in high spirit to rebuild our country into a better one. Anyway, my old friend, Zabuza arrived yesterday, he said he met you at the wave country, hahaha~ he may not look like it, but he's grateful for everything what you've done for Kirigakure, Naruto. Though, his pupil seemed to be totally terrified of you… geez, what have you done to such a sweet dear, now?]
Softly, Naruto snorted and took a sip of his tea.
If that's her way to make him feel a wave of jealously, it's rather unfortunate for her that he knows of her plan from the fact he knew her true nature is not like that. Calling someone not him as sweet dear, hmph, who is she fooling now?
[Anyway, back to business, some elders have said their objections to your in-constructing building, but fortunately, most, if not all of the villagers outvoted their decision by keep constructing your HQ, uncaring of the elder's words. The ninjas also refused their order despite the elders do have some power to order some ninjas under me. Now if they were serious in their argument, they probably could hire some mercenaries… but I'm pretty sure they won't go that far, as they should also know just how much help you've been giving to us in our darkest moment]
Is that so…
Huh, so some elders feel uncomfortable because of his newly constructing HQ. a rather surprising development because he thought that the elders wouldn't mind about such building. He actually thought the one would rebel was some of the ninjas previously under Yagura, not the elders.
Well, he can't do anything about this…
"Now, where's my paper…"
It took him no longer than a few seconds before he found a piece of paper and start to write his respond to Mei's information.
.
..
"This should be enough"
And in the morning, a squeal of an eagle can be heard from his house as a messenger eagle flies off from his window toward Kirigakure.
-Later-
Morning walk is always somewhat a routine for Naruto, so it was never a surprise for any people of Konoha when they see a blonde boy walking through the village right as the village starting to wake up.
However, today, the boy is walking while holding a small piece of note. And every few small seconds, he would take a small glance to any wandering ninja with one eye closed, then start to write something on said note on his hands.
None of that any matter though. The only people still have problem with him is some of the council members, and so, the people around him merely gave him their own kind greeting, no longer cares about the beast inside his guts. That, and the new truth about him being the son of their late leader made them think twice to hate him by now.
Of course, Naruto would always greet them back, kind smiles on his face.
Though, his eyes always regain their focus back to his note…
High genin = 500
High Chunin = 1000
High Jonin = 1500
From what he can gather, this is the most he can get from the people he met this morning alone. Of course, he could guess some elite Jonin like Kakashi or Gai would have their stats equal or above two thousand. As for Kage… probably three thousand or so, though, this is still a probability and yet to be a fact because he is yet to scan any Kage with his newfound ability.
Just as he walking, Naruto arrives on the east garden, where he usually sat near the river in the past, skipping stone, alone.
Today though, one of his eyebrows raised quietly as he sees the trio of squad seven sitting near the bridge, with Sasuke alone having impatient look on his face.
Huh… they must be waiting for their sensei. Kakashi is infamous for his lateness, after all.
"Yo… waiting for Hatake-san?"
The man was one of his father's students, but they're not close, so Naruto merely called him using his family name instead of his given name.
Of course, when the trio heard his voice, they all blinked and turned their face to their left, where they see him walking to their way with a calm gait.
"Naruto…"
"Sup"
Really, he doesn't know why, but Sasuke always growled when he saw him.
Though fortunately, the boy clads in blue merely huffed seconds later and nodded at him, hands folding in front of his chest in his usual haughty pose.
"Yes, stupid Hatake said we've a new job to do today. But he's yet to give us any clue to do it, and like usual, he's late to our squad morning meeting"
There's no way he's going to tell Naruto that their today job is to search any information about him ever since he failed his test on academy. His pride refuses to do such a thing despite small part of him know to ask the person directly is the best way to gain information.
Behind him, one that is not Sakura stares at him as if he's idiot for ignoring such chance.
But then again, he doesn't care, Sai may call him dick less or anything worser than that, but his pride shall not let him ask Naruto himself.
"Is that so? Then again, from what I heard, Hatake-san always three hours late for anything, even something as important as meeting with Hokage… So, I doubt he will come soon. That is, unless you three already waited for three hours?"
.
..
Their silence is deafening…
Though, just as he snickering, a rather loud poof came out from his back, a signal that the man they're talking about already coming with stupid smile on his face.
And yes… his Kagura eyes sensed that smile from their close proximity.
"Oh my, are you four talking about me now?"
"… Hatake-san, good morning to you too"
Refusing to answer the man's question, Naruto greeted the elite Jonin as he turned around. His mind however, quickly activating his new perk.
Name: Kakashi Hatake
Race: Human
Rank: Elite Jonin (Ninjutsu specialist)
STR: 1300
AGI: 2450
VIT: 600
Chakra level: Jonin
And yes, his new perk doesn't show other people's CRM and instead giving him insight on how much chakra they have inside their body.
Of course, another thing he notice is that most ninja is mostly specialized in one area instead of like him, which has all-around stats. For example, this Kakashi that is specialized in AGI, which mean he's a speed-based ninja.
Speed and also ninjutsu specialist, no wonder he's pretty infamous inside bingo book.
"Hohoho, you look pretty happy today, Uzumaki-san"
Another eye smile, and Naruto was forced to broke from his day dreaming because of the man's words. Then again, he already saw that his prediction about elite ninja having stats around two thousand is correct, which mean the other prediction should be correct too.
And with this information, he could guess he's around jonin level from his body alone.
And yes… we're talking about the body here. After all, his new perk merely shows him the stats of someone's body. In battle, Kakashi could use body flicker technique to increase his speed or even use some technique to increase his STR stat temporary, just like him when he using his or Kyuubi's chakra for power boost.
Ninja is deadly because of their technique, that's why some techniques is classified as forbidden, clan only, or bloodline.
After all, even his own father was feared not because he can destroy a boulder with one palm, but because of his thunder god technique, which alone gave him SS-rank within bingo book, which also an order to flee in sight.
"I do? Well, perhaps I am… after all, I saw something pretty enlightening today"
Gently, a rather cheeky smile painted Naruto's lips, while his hands went to his pocket in his usual pose.
Yeah, it was pretty enlightening moment for him to see that ninja's stats aren't that high. After all, within few weeks alone, he's already unto Jonin level from body alone, while technique also following behind.
… what will happen when he reaches five thousand on all of his stats?
Thinking like this, his smile widens.
"Oh, what did you see, I wonder?"
Curious, Kakashi can't help but asked. His lone eyebrow raising in a rather curious manner, and nearby, his students following suit.
"Sorry, but it's secret…" turned around and giving everyone the sight of his back, Naruto laughed gently when he heard the tell tale of Sasuke gritting his teeth "… Anyway, gotta go, see you all later"
Poof!
There's no hand seal needed, right after Naruto said his words, smoke covered his form as he flickered away, leaving only a lone leaf in his place.
"Cheeky dobe"
Growling in a mix of anger and annoyance, Sasuke is having a red face from the burning anger he feels, vein popping on the side of his forehead.
"Maa maa, everyone has their own secret. Anyway…" Gently, Kakashi clapped his hands, gaining the attention of all of his students, which make him once again eye smiled "… Let's start your mission today, everyone"
-With Naruto-
"Heh… a rather funny guy, that one"
Jumping through the rooftop, the image of squad seven's third member flashed on Naruto's mind.
A rather plain looking, yet such pale boy. Smile so fake that Naruto himself can't help but to pity him a little bit. If that boy isn't someone sent by ROOT, then Naruto doesn't know where the hell the boy came from.
Of course, Naruto is sure he is sent by ROOT leader, despite his lustful observe cannot be used on male to get intel.
Still… he won't act on his newfound knowledge, after all, the boy's mission probably is to keep a watch on Sasuke and not him (He and squad seven isn't that close, so it makes no sense for the boy to be placed on said squad except to keep watch on the Uchiha's heir). Thus, the boy's loyalty to ROOT isn't something he care about, not as long his fangs doesn't bare at him.
Just as he thinking like this, Naruto stopped…
.
..
There are some new chakra signatures entering Konoha.
"Huh… So, it's that time already?"
The event that happens two times in a year, the Chuunin exam. And this year, Konoha is to be the host of said event.
Closing one of his eyes, Naruto turn his gaze toward the Konoha's gate from his standing place, which is pretty far.
He's sensing some anomalies…
Said anomalies is still pretty far however. The only ones already entering Konoha are just some Genins and some Jonin which he can guesses is their squad leaders.
But… those anomalies, just what are they?
"My sibling's chakras… The Jinchurikis is coming. You better keep your guard up, boy. It's one thing to face a controlled Jinchuriki, but if any of those anomalies is perfectly in sync with their tailed beast, you're a dead meat"
Understood…
Though still, he's somewhat curious about the Jinchuriki who is fully in sync with their tailed beast.
How did they do it?
He already tried to channel Kyuubi's chakra around his chakra coils without any help from seals once… and let him be honest here, it fucking hurt!
The power is there, true. But at the cost of every second felt like he got himself skinned alive, and it only at second tails.
One tail? His body is strong enough to handle it by now, a body of almost fully Jonin level.
So really, how did those fully synced Jinchuriki handle their tailed beast's chakra? And he's asking here because Kyuubi doesn't want to answer his question every time he asked about such a thing.
Go find out yourself, he said.
Sigh
His father is curious person, one that always ask here and there when he's confused. Kyuubi hated the man when he was alive because of this, thus, the creature called his father a blonde bastard.
That's also why the creature rarely want to answer his question and simply urged him to find out the answer himself.
Letting out another heavy sigh, Naruto continues his observation on everyone entering Konoha.
.
..
Why?
Maybe he could find new target, after all.
-With squad seven-
"Why are we doing this again?"
Walking around the village, Sasuke and his team is looking for any information about their former classmate by asking some of the merchants came from the outside of Konoha.
However, thus far, they're having no luck whatsoever.
Well, it's not like they found no information at all. It just… most of the intel they found are just too cliché or just too impossible for their mind to connect with their usually doofus former classmate. However, Sasuke still told Sakura to write all of the information, just in case some of it were true.
"It's your fault for being curious, dickless Uchiha"
Sai's jab hit Sasuke right unto his heart, though he merely having vein popping on the side of his forehead after his teammate's words.
"Yes, yes, it was also my fault for not asking Naruto directly, so just shut it"
Then again, Sasuke knew Naruto, he was a drama queen. Even if they were to ask him directly, there's some chance that he could exaggerating the story he tells, all the while having a smug look on his face.
Fucking Uzumaki…
Thinking about Naruto and his smug face alone is enough for Sasuke to pop a few angry veins on the side of his forehead.
Now, most would ask why does Sasuke hate Naruto so much. And let be honest here, he doesn't hate the blonde per se. they're friend, as unstable their bond is, Sasuke still considers Naruto as his only friend inside this stupid village that never gave him the power he wants.
But this and that is totally different matter altogether.
People keep talking about Naruto these days, and even his own mother worries over Naruto and asked him about the blonde condition every time he get home.
And yes… it's mostly a petty feeling because Naruto is taking all of the spotlight for himself.
'Just you wait, Naruto. When my Sharingan awaken, I will defeat you in all aspect that nobody will talk about you anymore'
"Guys… how about we ignore the merchants for now and ask a bard instead?"
Suddenly, Sakura that was silent before now said her own idea. One that made Sasuke and Sai paused… that was a rather good idea actually, bard should be cheaper than any merchants, as they were story teller in the first place.
"Alright, let's go to a bar to find some bard with good information"
Sasuke said in the end, taking the idea into his own pocket and start to take charge of the team. Bar actually doesn't allow kid their age to enter, but with headband already tied on their forehead, it should be fine because they're already adult in the eyes of the village.
Plus, it's not like they're going to bar to drink and merely to look for some information.
It should be fine… it should be fine.
.
..
…
It's not fine…
The trio doesn't know why, but the second they entered the nearest bar, all eyes immediately went to their way, more specifically, to Sasuke, killing intent and hateful gaze dances in their eyes.
Unknown to them, this is the bar where his mother brutally murdered one of the guests with only one hand.
Sasuke and Sai took notices of the glares pointing at them, though because they already faced the killing intent from Zabuza, this is nothing to them as they simply walk to the counter, Sakura following behind them, all the while covering her nose because to her, this place just reek of stink.
"… We're looking for a bard, is there any here?"
Cold and without politeness whatsoever, Sasuke asked that to the man behind the counter, getting a glare for his lack of respect. Thought the glare lasted for no more than five seconds because the bar owner is just too scared to get himself killed by the Matriarch of the Uchiha next time she visits.
She killed a person just because they're talking from her back, who said she won't kill people just because they offend her son?
Thinking the man stopped glaring because he's afraid of him, Sasuke smiles smugly.
"There… the man with green hat"
The bar owner said while tilting his head to the person's way, getting a simple nod of thanks from Sasuke and soft bow from Sakura.
And after that, the trio walked to said person with green hat and sit on the same table as him, getting the man blinked few times in confusion, hand putting down his drink.
"Is there anything I can help you three genins?"
"… And how are you so sure three of us is genin?"
Sasuke asked, eyes narrowing in an act to look intimidating to the man in front of him. though unfortunately for Sasuke, the bard isn't afraid of him and the infamous Uchiha that is his mother, as the man simply folded his hands on top of the table with a rather carefree smile.
"One, three of you coming together, which mean you three is in squad. Two, none of you look old enough or serious enough to be a chuunin. And three… the way all of you walked just now reeks genin to me, too young, and too weak to be anything than that"
Gritting his teeth in a rather painful way to show his angry feeling, soon in the end Sasuke simply palming his fist to hide said feeling. There's nothing he could gain by getting himself angry right here and at this very moment.
He needs information, and that's that.
"I see… well, I need information about Naruto Uzumaki, do you have any?"
"Naruto-sama? Sure~ I was there when he fought and beaten the Mizukage after all"
Once he heard the name Naruto came out from Sasuke's lips, the bard went 180 and smiled happily, a sign of him knowing something that Konoha people probably hadn't heard about yet.
"… How much for it?"
It was obvious that Sasuke was shocked, so shocked that he went silent for a full minute. After all, hearing that the boy he always called as Dobe by some merchant defeated one of the strongest ninjas alive is one thing that he could chalked as a lie, but here? The man in front of him calling himself as eye witness.
And as a ninja, Sasuke knows the sign of someone lie when he sees one, something that had been taught by his late father. And this man in front of him… there's no sign of lie inside his words.
Once again, curiosity filling his mind, question of how and just how is it possible crossing his mind again and again.
How can Naruto… one that was literally dead last and never failed to fail on his exams in his class become so strong?
It just… so mind blowing.
.
..
"No… I'm sorry. You see, to me, he's a hero, I cannot possibly tell you about him when I know nothing about your intention, do I?"
The man went 180 once again, and this time, his eyes becoming sharp as he leaning his back on the chair. And seeing this, a sign of mistrust has been given to him, Sasuke once again gritting his teeth inwardly.
This… is going to take a long time.
-With Naruto-
"Uzumaki-sama… Hokage-sama is calling the council meeting"
In the middle of his observation, an ANBU suddenly appeared behind him and said that. Though, Naruto isn't that surprised and merely raise one of his eyebrows as he turned his gaze to his back.
"So suddenly?"
"Hai… the Council meeting is urgent and need to be attended by all members"
Humming gently, Naruto could take a random guess that the talk on said council meeting would be the next Chuunin exam. Or more specifically, the contenders…
"Sure… take me there"
"At once, sir"
And as the man touch Naruto's shoulder, he flickered off, faster than any flicker he could do. But then again, this is an ANBU we're talking about.
.
..
…
"And like we said, sir! How can we be so sure that those people won't make any problem!?"
Right in front of the door to the meeting room, Naruto paused, his eyes blinked a few times to make sure he heard that right.
The meeting already starting, without him?
Oh… the nerve of those people.
Click
"… Haruno-san, I told you already, but we're going to start once everyone's here"
Just as Naruto opened the door, he heard the calming voice of his grandfather figure, talking to the offender which he heard is Haruno…
ah, that grandma just keep opening her mouth, doesn't she?
"Alright, I'm here… do we have everyone already?"
Entering the meeting room with a calmness that he never had when he was still in academy, Naruto stares at everyone with a quick glance and nodded to some of them that he somewhat respect for their status or their connection to his late parents.
All of the civilian side is there, and all of the clan head also present… except for Yakumo. In her seat, one of the elder is taking her seat, probably was told by her to take her place for this meeting.
"Ah… I'm glad you make it in time, Naruto-kun. My ANBU was having difficult searching for you"
The kind grandfather figure of his said as Naruto taking his seat. Though he definitely paused when the third Hokage said that. Ah, he did use his Kagura eyes to hide most of his chakra, didn't he?
"Is that so? Well, next time do try to send sensor ninja to find me… I believe since one of my bloodlines awaken now, it would be very difficult for most ninjas to search for me"
"Right, Kagura eyes… still can't believe my ears when I heard you awakened all of your Uzumaki's bloodlines when you fought the previous Mizukage, hohoho"
Most that haven't heard of this information is definitely shocked, seen from their widening eyes. Though of course, council members they are, they definitely already know what kind of bloodlines Uzumaki had, so there's nothing to explain, and him awakening his bloodlines could also be seen as the final nail on the coffin for those who still doesn't believe that he is the son of their previous leader.
"I was shocked too actually… but I digress, let's stop our chat now and start the meeting once again"
He said, getting most council that at least neutral and above toward him nodded in agreement.
In hierarchy, Naruto is equal to all of these council members except for the Hokage. But in actuality, he has more power than the civilian council members and somewhat higher status than most of the clan head except for the like of Hyuuga or Uchiha.
Why? Because compared to civilian council, he's holding more market share and most, if not all merchants also choose to buy his merchandise instead of theirs (because he made all of those merchandise by himself, he can lower the price as he like to make the council losing power more and more without losing anything) by now.
And that's why, when he said to start the meeting and placing his cheek on his palm with lazy eyes, no one dares to talk back, afraid.
"Alright, let's get back on track. Naruto-kun, I believe you already know this, but next week, we're going to host a Chuunin exam. But with your deeds on defeating the previous Mizukage and saving the Wave country from the clutches of Tyrant, Kumogakure and Iwagakure is sending their genins this time, something they never did anytime Konoha was hosting Chuunin exams"
The council room immediately turn silent, each member is having their own calculating look, even Naruto.
Full minute in silent, in the end, the one who break the silence is one Hiashi Hyuuga, his white eyes blankly staring at the Hokage with something that Naruto cannot decipher.
"I believe you already has a plan, Hokage-sama?"
When one great village hosting Chuunin exam, all other villages is free to come and join, no exception whatsoever. The rules have been written and agreed by the five elemental Daimyos, so even Hokage has no power whatsoever to deny such a thing.
But still…
"Of course, Hiashi. None of us here want to be attacked right under our noses again"
The Hokage said with narrowing eyes, his aura far different than few minutes ago.
Then again, both Iwa and Kumo already feel like thorns on Konoha side, Naruto thought to himself. First, he heard and read that decades ago, Kumo decided to tried to kidnap a very important person from Konoha, which they did again about eight years ago when they tried to kidnap the heiress of the Hyuuga clan, Hinata Hyuuga.
As for Iwa… well, their hates for Konoha are too deep and their eyes are too red in rages after his father butchered them in the last war.
In a way, Iwa would be no different than Konoha to Naruto. One seeing their butcherer's image when they saw him, and the other saw an image of demon.
Heh…
It will be very hard to change the image now that he has them.
Then again… challenge accepted.
"Jiji… tell me about your plan. Though before that, let me tell all of you this before. Suna, Kumo, and Iwa is bringing their Jinchurikis. I don't know the exact number, but one village at least bringing one into our turf"
"!"
That put a shock on everyone, more than the information of the two hostile great villages coming into theirs.
Of course, following the shock, there's also telltales of graveness in their faces. Something that Naruto somewhat agree with, knowing their point of views. Jinchuriki has been said and proofed to be ultimate weapon since the first time they're created, so to normal people or even normal ninjas, they're the existences that need to be feared.
A rather stupid course of action… but like he said, he understood their point of view a little bit.
"Stupid is stupid, why are you trying to understand them, I don't understand, then again, you're also stupid at some times, so I guess you're one of them too"
Ouch…
Hahaha, Kyuubi never fail to bit on him whenever he got the time. Though, most of the time the creature would rather spend his time sleeping than talking to him.
'Kyuubi-san, do you have any idea how many of your siblings coming to Konoha?'
"… I'm sensing four. One tail, two tail, four tail and eight tail"
'Thank you, Kyuubi-san'
Now already got the information he needed, Naruto refocusing his eyes toward the council. Though, it's not like he has any intention to say this information to any of them. the Hokage could hear of this later when there's only two of them around.
"Alright, let us keep our calm… Council, let us start this meeting in search of idea to counter whatever our rival may throw at us"
.
..
…
-With Yakumo-
A shadow went inside of Yakumo, followed by her opening her eyes gently, though her left eye is the color of Ido's eye instead of hers.
'So, how is it?'
'Darling is busy on the meeting. We should be fine now'
The girl nodded inwardly as she stood up, facing two women in front of her.
Luka and Kurenai…
Few weeks ago, they have fought each other, unaccepting the fact that Luka is the girlfriend of the boy they love. And Luka too fought them because she doesn't want any women to chase after her boyfriend.
Of course, the last match ended up in draw without any winner because they can't kill each other in this match of theirs.
It's a battle of will, where each forcing each other to give up on the idea on having Naruto for herself.
"Today I'm going to beat you two up, believe me"
Luka said aggressively after she saw Yakumo standing up without any word, a sign of them having a clear to start their battle. And of course, her words followed by her unsheathing her blade and tightening her bladed scarf.
Though not given to the girl's word, Yakumo merely taking out her note and brush while her kimono starting to stretch and moving, ready to defend her. as for Kurenai, she's simply taking out her kunai while rotating her chakra inside her body, ready to cast her genjutsu.
Kurenai and Yakumo's problem has become a thing in the past, thanks to their lover. But this and that is two different matters altogether, after all, all is fair in love and war.
.
..
"Honestly, this is just too much to watch"
Just as the three want to pounce on each other, they all heard a soft voice that is familiar to Kurenai's ears.
"Yugao, what are you doing here?"
Like a ghost, a rather beautiful lady with purple hair and white dress appears from the free side of the three, as if to take no one side except for her own.
And the fact she's currently holding the hilt of the sword in her waist, the three of them can't help but feel the sudden epiphany.
… a bad epiphany.
"… I was going to watch you three fighting each other actually. But knowing what's on the line, I guess I can't resist my own urge to join"
The word was said in straight line, pointing at one thing. But still, Yakumo can't help but ask.
"And what's that mean?"
For the answer, the woman merely closed her eyes for a brief second and unsheathed her sword, blade pointing at the three of them.
"As Yugao Uzuki… No, as ANBU Cat, tasked to watch and care for the well being of Naruto-san. I shall sever you three from my little brother, without any exception"
Confuse, rage, upset, all of those feeling are mixing in the eyes of Kurenai, Luka and Yakumo. Though in the end, when they saw Yugao's eyes, they see no deception, nor they saw anything but conviction… conviction just like theirs.
"Alright… that's it!"
Of course, as the girl with more temper compared to the other three, seeing another rival popped up just like this lit Luka up, and not in a good way.
Her eyes showing murder, and chakras explode from her body, showing an amount that could make most normal Jonin green with envy.
"Today, I won't show any of you mercy!"
-Back with Naruto-
"Lord Hokage…"
In the middle of their meeting, an ANBU appear from the side of the Hokage, giving them all a brief bow of forgiveness for intruding.
"What is it, Hawk?"
"Reporting…"
The next word wasn't heard by anyone because the ANBU chose to whispered it to the Hokage. Though, with their sharp ears, Naruto and Tsume Inuzuka easily heard what are they talking about.
"I see… send a squad of three to ne-"
"Let them be"
Before Hiruzen could finish the sentence, Naruto cut him off, getting him glares from some of the people who think that he's being rude to their leader.
Though, uncaring of those, Naruto merely stares at his grandfather figure.
"Trust me… let them be, neutralizing them will only make them hate each other, more than they already has"
And knowing each of them is currently somewhat thinking each other as love rival, Naruto doesn't want them end up as less than that. Love rival is good, rival is good, it may be unstable and sometimes easily shaken, but the bond is there, he knew, because he was there once.
After all, his friendship/rivalries with Sasuke is also like this.
Unknown to him, one Tsume Inuzuka is staring at him with a curious glance. This is the very first time she witnessing a man not stepping in the middle of his own girls when they fought.
Though… his reasoning is indeed correct.
.
..
…
"Alright, I'll put my trust on you this time, Naruto-kun. Though still, my ANBU will still break them up if they went to civilized area"
"Understandable"
With that wrapped up, Hiruzen slapped the table in front of him once, gaining the focuses of the council members that went to deep, thinking about what are they talking about.
"Nothing to worry about people… just some girls fighting over our Casanova here"
Hearing this, one Haruno is gritting her teeth in a rather painful manner, showing her temper to the world. Though because the meeting is underway, she doesn't dare to rage on it, less the members will start to vote to kick her out from the council meeting.
She needs to keep a good image after all.
Seeing this with one of his eyes, Naruto smirked, resisting his own urge to laugh at her reddening face.
He has something more important than looking at her funny moment after all.
'For example… Observe'
With one eye closing, Naruto stares at the man he thought as his own grandfather.
And thus, Naruto realize that it shouldn't be that hard for him to reach the level of Kage.
And taking most of the thing he knew from his ability, Naruto smirked.
.
..
It's literally not impossible for him to be the strongest by the time he reaches fifteen years old.
-Somewhere near the desert-
"…"
"Gaara, why are you suddenly stopping?"
A Jonin with a turban-like gear on his head asked one of his genins, while the two staring at the stopping one with curiosity.
Pale green eyes went at them after the boy with red hairs staring blankly at the sky in front of them.
"… Mother said… Crazy fox gained a monster for a vessel"
The boy obviously doesn't really understand what's that mean. Though, the three others knew what he meant from the fact their face immediately went pale. Well, the teacher is having narrowing eyes of calculating despite his pale face.
Someone out there, the Kyuubi Jinchuriki, is being called as monster… by a literal monster.
And for the life of his, Baki cannot grasp such truth.
"It's alright Gaara… One tail probably joking with you. Let us continue our travel"
Baki said in the end, the problem stored on the back of his mind. He will have to tell Kabuto about this and ask whether this fox Jinchuriki can be contained by the sound or not.
If not… they would have to depart the plan.
"Gaara, if you meet the fox, you're not to engage, alright?"
"… Yes"
Unhappy, but probably because the one tail said the same thing as his own teacher, the boy named Gaara nodded, his dark eyes from the lack of sleep is glaring at way they're running into.
-Somewhere else-
"Yo! Yo! POWEEEEEER!"
A, the fourth Raikage is having a bad day. His own little brother, Bee, the Jinchuriki of eight tails has been rapping about power non-stop ever since they've arrives in the border of fire country.
And this, is starting to grate on his nerve.
"BEE, FUCKING SHUT UP!"
"No can do, brotha. Me and eighty is having DA POWEEEEEEER!"
Fists tightening, A is having a few veins popping on the side of his head, resisting his urge to lariat his own brother before they arrive at their destination.
"Yugito… translate his words for me"
A said to the woman of twenty-four years old beside him. and after hearing the Raikage's order, the woman nodded at him.
"Two tails said that the current holder of Kyuubi is a monster… in what sense, it doesn't tell me"
The woman said without any emotion whatsoever. Her eyes flickering to both left and right, watching just in case there's an ambush setting up around them.
"Tch… of course, knowing that boy's father, it won't surprise me if he is a monster as much as his dad…"
BANG!
"… And fucking shut up, you"
Already got the answer to the reason for his brother stupidities, A in the end punched him on the cheek. So hard that the man is thrown few hundred meters away from their current location.
"… My lord, is that necessary?"
"No, but I want to do it"
And thus, Yugito Nii, the Jinchuriki of the two tails sweatdropping, seeing this scene really made her realize just how quirky the man people called as the fastest man alive is.
"Anyway, let's speed up, that stupid brother of mine can eat my dirt for all I care"
"But… the genin…"
"They're my brother's students, and so they're his responsibility, not mine"
Uncaring of the trio of genin a little bit far from them, A start to speeding up. His form is nothing but a blue lightning blur to anyone watching. Though, knowing his order is absolute, Yugito let out a rather soft sigh and start to following her leader.
-Back with Naruto-
Pfffft!
"Ahahahaha! By far, that was such a great joke, Haruno-san. You should be a jokester instead of council member"
Came a voice of Naruto as he roasting the blonde elderly woman that is unfortunately enough is the mother of his own girlfriend. And of course, after she heard his words, her face turning red with both anger and embarrassment, more so when she saw the other council members holding their own laugh.
Of course, before the woman can explode, Naruto let his face become calmer and let out a rather apologizing smile pointed to everyone in the room…
"Let' get back on track… it makes me happy that you trust my ability so much, Haruno-san. However, fighting against so many jinchurikis is not something I can do with my current ability. It took me almost dying to defeat transforming Yagura-san, if I was forced to fight so many jinchuriki, and each of them transform into their tailed beast, I will die, no but and no if there"
The other members nodded here, mostly the clan head. No matter how strong Naruto is, at the moment, he's still twelve, forcing him to fight against unknown number of Jinchuriki is just such a jerk move no matter from what point you're seeing it.
"But… you can just transform into that beast too and beat them!"
Unaccepting of the words said, the Haruno said that in the last attempt to make the 'boy' in front of her see how grave situation they're in.
"… And killing myself on the way?"
.
..
The temperature on the room decreases by few degrees as Naruto narrowing his eyes toward the yellow haired woman. Though, the other members seem rather curious on what did he mean by dying, after all, Haruno put a rather great point there. If he can't defeat them in his current self, he can transform, doesn't he?
After all, if the other can, he should be able too.
"Yes, it's true what Uzumaki-san said… you're too unreasonable in your request, Haruno-san"
The one backing Naruto isn't the Hokage however, but the man that Naruto keep watching since the first time he entered the room.
A rather elderly man with eye and half of his body bandaged… Danzo Shimura. His current great enemy.
"Haruno-san, do you know why only the Uzumaki can hold the Kyuubi?"
The man's words gain not only the curiosity of the Haruno, but also the other council members. Just like their Hokage, Danzo Shimura was also once a student of the second Hokage, and so, he's pretty knowledgeable in many things and survived two wars without losing his life, something that so little people can brag about.
Of course, because of his status and prestige, Danzo is well respected within the council members. Thus, his words are very trustworthy to most of them.
Most… because some openly narrowing their eyes at the man, including Naruto and the third Hokage.
"We all know that there's nine tailed beasts in the world. All nine that was subjugated by our lord first Hokage and spread across the five great nation… all, except the nine tails that his wife, Mito Uzumaki-sama sealed upon herself"
"This… is because while all nine tailed beast is creatures made of purely chakra and hate, the nine tails hold the special seat not only as the strongest and with the most destructive power. But also, because it's hate is so great that normal people could die from the sight of the creature alone"
Everyone knew this, and the civilian side of the council threw their face away from Naruto.
How can they not remember? The sight of so many of their family falling to their faces and die just like that when the Kyuubi appeared twelve and half years ago.
How can they not remember? The sight of the ninjas trembling in their feet, fighting against a beast that made them inwardly crying by its growl alone.
Forget the beast destructiveness… even its hate alone is legendary by itself.
"Including all of those points above, Kyuubi can only be held by people from Uzumaki clan, as they naturally had strong body and vitality since they born. They also hold such large amount of chakra compared to any clan, something that let them resist the hate of the Kyuubi. However, this also make full transformation impossible, because when they transform, it would literally them taking all of the hate of the creature for themselves, something that no one can ever do, even for Uzumaki"
There's small, but nonetheless, some of the civilian side of the council members is giving Naruto a rather respectful glance. Now knowing just how heavy the burden he's having.
Despite this though, Naruto took a small glance at his grandfather figure and raising one of his eyebrows, something that the elderly took notice of…
What's his agenda, now?
Is what his face basically said.
But alas, even his grandfather figure is completely hopeless and doesn't know anything about his old friend's plan.
And seeing this, Naruto simply let his shoulders shrugged inwardly.
… he probably trying to make himself look good in front of him to make it easier for him to stab him in the back.
'… Heh, childish plan'
He already knows what the man capable of, how many soldiers he has, and even his secret base location. He's holding all the cards to attack the man…
And thus, any plan the man is making is simply make him look stupid in Naruto's eyes.
But still… the man is currently making himself look good by basically supporting him. and this… is not allowed.
"Stop talking about me…" Naruto said after gently slapping the table in front of him, gaining all of the focus back to him "… Right now, we're in the middle of the meeting on how to resist Kumo and Iwa just in case they attack us in the middle of the Chuunin exam, and the time is ticking… against us if I might add. So please, back on track"
Again, it might be rude of him, but with current positive light the others seeing him in, they all realize how true his words are, and thus, no offense taken as everyone once again start to search any idea on how to process the plan.
Unknown to anyone, one Uchiha Matriarch is staring at Naruto with eyes full of pride and longing.
'Ah… How time has passed. Kushina, if only you can see how mature your son is… I'm sure you'll be proud of him'
-On one of the training grounds-
Pant
Pant
"… You're improving, Yakumo"
"No, it is you who are stagnating, Kurenai sensei… you won't be able to defeat me with genjutsu alone. Not when in genjutsu department, I'm far above you"
Facing face to face, Kurenai and Yakumo is having a showdown. The girl herself already has her eyes fully black and yellow, a sign of total control over Ido's reality bending power. All the while, Ido herself is possessing the girl's previously pink kimono, turning it black as ink and sharp as knife, turning and moving on the winds, ready to cut anything getting nears.
Few meters away from them, Yugao and Luka is having their own showdown, with none of them backing down despite their bleeding bodies. Though, it's easily seen that Yugao is the one having the upper hand, as Luka having more wound compared to her.
"Is that so? Well… I'm still an elite Jonin for a reason, you know?"
Gently closed her eyes for a second, Kurenai let out a rather soft sigh as she taking out another kunai of hers (the previous one was destroyed by Ido)
Of course, despite her words, Kurenai herself know when she's beat.
Yakumo is fully in sync with her demon… a genjutsu demon if she may add, there's no genjutsu within her repertoire that can affect a genjutsu demon. And because her specialty is genjutsu, she's screwed.
But still… there's no way she will give up. Not when she knows what's on the line…
"Fire style: fire bullet!"
Running to the side, the ruby eyed woman spewed few balls of fire from her mouth, a sight that made Yakumo wide eyed for a second and jumped back, not wanting to get hit by a fireball of all thing.
Pant… pant
Her throat is burning as she rarely used ninjutsu ever since she took genjutsu as her specialty. But nonetheless, a sight of Yakumo going into her graceful kata and narrowing eyes is enough to make her smile a little.
Now… the battle is going to start again.
.
..
…
"You should just give up… you can't defeat me with sword of all thing"
Came an annoying voice of this purple haired woman, which make Luka grit her teeth in a mix of anger and embarrassment.
"Silence!"
Following her slash, Luka spun and kicked the woman on her ribs, which Yugao can't block considering her sword was used to block her bladed scarf.
Of course, despite flinched for a brief second, Yugao is quick on her feet and quickly blocked another slash from Luka and slashed her a little on her forearm.
The exchange went like this, again and again, with Luka keep repeating strange, yet pretty effective movement while Yugao calmly parried everything she can parry and took the hit she's sure her body can handle.
And unknown to the four, they went at this game over and over, ignoring their wound filled bodies and fully moving by motivations and wills alone.
And thus… the sun set just like that, with no winner in sight.
Then again, it won't be a clash if they can finish this battle of theirs in one day.
Without knowing it, each is holding small amount of respect for each other after their battle.
As each female went to their own house, they all thought the same thing…
'Those three… is pretty good'
-With squad seven-
"So, how far did you get, my adorable students?"
Smiling sweetly, Kakashi doesn't seem to care to see that Sasuke and Sai is having their faces bruised, a sign of them gotten into fight to get the information on their former classmate.
Across of him, Sakura is staring at him as if he's crazy for not worry over his own students.
"… We got almost everything"
Glaring hole into his own teacher, Sasuke is also ignoring his own wound, on his eyes, the telltale of anger, confusion and unaccepting is present. How can the dobe of the class (But still the one he does think as rival) become so strong in such short amount of time?
"Oh… really? That's surprising"
And Kakashi isn't lying, if his widening eyes in any indication. After all, team seven is made to be assault team, not information gathering, so for them to be able to gather so much information in one day is pretty shocking to him.
… he can use this to brag to Asuma and other Jonin.
"Alright, then tell me what you got, my students"
Clapping his hands happily, the man is staring at his three students with expectant eyes. And seeing this, the three nodded.
.
..
…
"Wow… you three is pretty dedicated, I see"
From the man living in front of Naruto's house, team seven knew that the boy was depressed for a few days, locking himself inside his own house and even ignored their previous teacher's call outside the door.
From the man usually sit on the library, team seven got the information that Naruto was searching for some book on how to be a merchant few days later, though also almost got into fight with his current girlfriend, Luka Haruno for something that the team cannot get because the man chose silent at that moment.
After that… no additional information except the people seeing him advertising his merchandise to the merchants in Konoha's market area.
Then FOX corporation was built and Naruto suddenly gain a power within the Konoha's council.
Few days after that, the boy followed the visiting guests from the Kirigakure and helped said guests on defeating the tyrant Mizukage that people said turned himself into large demon like monster, Naruto even also said to almost die in the fight as the claw of the creature pierce him in the gut as he protected the people of Kirigakure, gaining him not only the respect, but also the loyalty of the now peaceful people of Kirigakure, including the newly coronated fourth Mizukage, Mei Terumi.
It may some cliché, and the demon like monster part just sound so impossible. But all the bards within Konoha said the same thing, previous Mizukage turned into monster, and Naruto almost die fighting the creature.
"That's all we got, and after the Kiri event, we all know where Naruto went to and witnessed it by our self"
Sasuke finished, his eyes look calm, though his fists is tightening, a sign of incoming anger, anger for being left behind by his own rival.
"Good, good, I'm proud of you three"
Kakashi said with an eye smile, his hands suddenly holding three pieces of papers. And slowly, the three took the pieces of paper one by one, eyes blinking when they read what kind of paper given to them…
.
..
"For the reward, let me give these to you… what do you think? Do you three feel ready to become Chuunin?"
Five of nine Jinchuriki will meet... will their meeting create bond, or disaster?
probably will take me a rather long time to write next chapter, so please, just patient, kay?
cyaaa~