When Wind Meets Earth

by Its Rice Man

Moving to Konoha, Kurotsuchi goes to be a kunoichi for the village with hopes of keeping stable relations and meets Naruto Uzumaki. Soon they become inseparable and eventually she grows to love the village as her own. When they become shinobi they confront a foe who wants to end the age of shinobi and a battle between them and the samurai will determine the fate of the world.

14. Unwanted Reunion

Chapter 14: Unwanted Reunion

-Hokage's office-

''I'm glad you are all here.'' Hiruzen spoke before a group of Jonin who were kneeling before him, ''As you all know by now this exam saw five of the Jinchuuriki participate and in the elimination round they all have won their matches.''

''But what does this have to do with anything Lord Hokage?'' Asked a Jonin way in the back.

''It means Raido, that since all five Jinchuuriki are in the finals. That Akatsuki group might try something and so since it starts tomorrow I've already ordered a twenty-four seven surveillance around the village and I want everyone as well as the ANBU to be patrolling the gate. Mako, Kakashi, Kurenai, Asuma. You four will provide security within the stadium and you will be sitting in the seats with the civilians is that understood?''

''Yes Lord Hokage.'' Answered the four Jonin.

''Alright everyone, your guard duties start right now. Dismissed.''

All the Jonin turn to leave except Mako who remained kneeling where she was. When the room clears of all the other Jonin Mako stands up and walks closer to Hiruzen. ''Lord Hokage...''

''I know Mako, I know, it's about him right?'' Hiruzen asked.

''Yes, I have the hunch he's a part of this group and if he shows up I want to kill him.'' Mako said.

Hiruzen takes a few puffs from his pipe before continuing.

''He was the best Jonin in his class and I feel you are the one that can best him. I leave the task of bringing him down to you Mako because I believe you can.''

Mako looked down for a second before looking up to the portraits of the previous three Kage that hung on the wall. One of them showed a man with spiky, blonde hair. ''I wish Minato-sensei was alive. I know he wouldn't be a match for him.'' Mako said her voice breaking momentarily.

''Now now Mako, you shouldn't say such a thing. It's because of Minato that our village is still around and don't worry you still have me and your students to protect you.'' Hiruzen said.

''I understand Lord Hokage, I apologize.'' Mako said with a small nod before turning to walk away.

''Mako wait.''

''Yes?''

''Do you think it's time for Naruto to learn who his parents are?'' Hiruzen said.

Mako goes into deep thought for a few minutes before giving her answer. ''I would think so, from what we've seen of him the past weeks and months he definitely performs at the Tokubetsu Jonin level and he's old enough to know.''

''Hm, but what about Kurotsuchi's reaction? I fear that she may despise and loathe Naruto for..you know.'' Hiruzen said.

Mako just simply shook her head. ''She would never in a million years hate Naruto, those two have known each other for almost five years now and when she learned of Naruto being the Kyuubi's container her feelings towards the boy have not changed.''

''Feeling? You mean..?'' Hiruzen asked with a raised eyebrow and amused smirk.

''That's right, Kurotsuchi and Naruto love each other and they're so close that even with what Minato-sensei did in the last war I'm sure Kurotsuchi will not hate Naruto as he wasn't the one who did it.'' Mako concluded.

''Very well then, if you're up to doing it then let me know when you plan to. One last thing I want to say ask is this. Do you know how many years I've been Hokage?'' Hiruzen asked.

''Yes, about forty plus and counting? Old man.'' Mako said jokingly.

''That's right, I'm getting too old for this crap so I'm having my successor who agreed to take my place as soon as the exams are over.''

''Wait, you don't mean Lady Tsunade do you?'' Mako asked with a shocked expression.

''Oh yeah, the one and only. I know right? Shocker, I'm surprised she agreed to be the fifth Hokage.'' Hiruzen quipped.

''You're telling me, did you do anything to convince her? I mean, she's so stubborn isn't she?'' Said Mako.

''She is, but I convinced her by offering 100,000,000,000 Ryo if she willingly does it so there you go, fifth Hokage!" Hiruzen began laughing his old butt off while Mako was staring at him with a deadpan expression.

''Oh Lord Hiruzen...''

''Oh, by the way where did you teleport that Akatsuki member's bomb?'' Asked Hiruzen.

Mako just went wide-eyed and chuckled nervously. ''Oh uh, well...''

-Waterfall, near Tankazu town-

In the warm waters of a large pond with a waterfall near Tanzaku town the camera pans downward to show two females bathing in the water and we see a blonde haired woman who appeared to be in her early thirties and a young girl about fourteen years old relaxing in the warm water.

''Lady Tsunade are you ready to take the place of Lord Hiruzen and becoming the fifth?'' The girl with shoulder-length black hair asked.

''Meh, as much as I don't like to go back to Konoha I don't mind, it's been a while anyway so I might as well take over for the old geezer Shizune.'' Tsunade said.

''Oh, being Hokage sounds so exciting!'' Shizune exclaimed.

''But the paperwork, goddammit.'' Tsunade muttered with annoyance.

Unknown to the female shinobi they were being spied on by a figure hiding out in the foliage close by. The figure had spiky white hair that was tied into a pony-tail.

''Hehe, oh this is so good! After all these years I've finally got good research off you Tsunade!" The figure said while scribbling ferociously into his book.

The perv didn't notice however that a spiraling void appeared above him and then appeared Deidara's bomb which slowly descended upon the peeping Tom. Noticing the shadow above him he looks up. ''What in the world is that!?'' Exclaimed the perv before the bomb strikes the ground next to him and detonates sending him flying forward into the water.

The sudden explosion caught the ladies by surprise and they scream at the sudden boom only to stop when a smoking figure landed in the water in front of them. The perv, jumping up to get some air was greeted by two angry females.

''WHAT THE FUCK!? JIRAIYA WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE!?'' Tsunade asked in pure anger.

''GROSS! YOU OLD PERV YOU WERE SPYING ON US!" Shizune pointed a finger at him accusingly.

Recovering from his fall Jiraiya shook himself dry before realizing the situation he had got himself in. Turning around he saw Tsunade and Shizune sporting very angry faces and tic-marks on their heads. ''Oh! Um, I just happen to be in the neighborhood ladies no pervy intentions!'' Jiraiya held in hands up in defense but was greeted by a chakra-infused punch right in the jaw sending the old man rocketing into the sky.

-Hokage's office, same time-

As usual we see Hiruzen going over the last of his paperwork for the afternoon when he looks out the window having sensed a presence loom over the village.

''Hm? What's that?'' Hiruzen then gets up and walks to the window and opens it. He peeks his head out and spots something reminiscent of a flaming meteor. Hearing a faint, familiar scream Hiruzen recognized the voice and chuckled. ''Oh Jiraiya, what have you done now?''

-Third training field-

The next morning we see Mako Uchiha and Kurotsuchi in a kenjutsu spar. On the sidelines we see Naruto and Genma sitting down and watching the two kunoichi go at it. Since the end of the elimination rounds Mako had trained regularly with her three students on the weekdays for the past month in preparation for the finals.

''Go Kurotsuchi!'' Cheered Naruto and Genma.

''You know watching two girls fight is pretty interesting.'' Naruto said.

''You got that right, I like how Kurotsuchi is keeping up even with someone as experienced as sensei.'' Genma said.

''Come on Kurotsuchi give it all you've got!" Mako goes in for a downward swing only for it to be blocked by Kurotsuchi's katana. Kurotsuchi takes Mako by surprise when the Iwa girl parries Mako's sword sending it flying out of the Jonin's grip.

''Impressive.''

Kurotsuchi then takes advantage of the situation and goes for a flurry of swings hoping to land a blow on Mako but the Jonin smirked as the katana came within reach of her and appeared to cut her chest.

''Got you sensei!'' Kurotsuchi thought with a grin, that grin however vanished when Mako turned into a flock of ravens. ''Shit, her raven substitution!''

Then Kurotsuchi felt the point of a blade pointed at her neck and a hand holding her sword arm in place. Turning her head back she looked and behind her was a grinning Mako. ''No one was ever given me a challenge like you Kurotsuchi, but you are still young and not as experienced as me.'' Mako said.

Naruto and Genma were watching the two females with expressions of awe.

''Damn, sensei really is the best Jonin in the village.'' Naruto inquired.

''You got that right, I don't think there's a Jonin alive whether it be from here or another village that can match her. She's so damn good.'' Genma said with a nod.

Kurotsuchi was surprised at how fast Mako was, one second she was there and the next she is already behind her. ''You know sensei, you're awesome.'' Kurotsuchi praised earning a chuckle from Mako.

''I know, I know.'' She gloated before looking at the boys, ''Time for a lunch break boys.''

The next minute the four of them are seen having a picnic and the meal they were eating was a homemade dried noodle, pumpkin broth and Mako's own special ramen recipe which consisted of pork and beef.

''Wow sensei you're such a good cook!'' Naruto exclaimed in glee.

''I know, Naruto cooks good but you're better.'' Said Kurotsuchi making the blonde face-vault.

''Hey, my cooking is awesome! I bet I can cook better than sensei!" Declared Naruto.

''A cooking contest? I'd like to see that but you're easily going to get your ass handed to you on a plate Naruto.'' Said Genma with a laugh.

Mako just simply shook her head at her Genin's antics, particularly Naruto who thought he was the better cook between them. ''Actually, here's a question for Naruto. Who's the better cook, me or Kurotsuchi?''

Genma clenched his hand into a fist and placed near his mouth while mouthing ''Ohhhhhh'' while Kurotsuchi placed her hands on her hips and gave Naruto a look that was reminiscent of an angry mother.

''You'd better say my cooking is better Naruto, after all we've been through!'' Kurotsuchi then grabbed Naruto in her nose pinch making the blonde cry in anguish.

''Ow! Your cooking is the best!'' Naruto screamed hoping the compliment would free him from her grasp.

Hearing his words Kurotsuchi smiles and lets the blonde free from her nose pinch. ''Good boy Naruto. You know how to flatter a girl.''

Rubbing his nose Naruto just cutely pouts looking the other way.

''Seriously, when he pouts he looks kinda cute.'' Kurotsuchi thought.

Genma just chuckled at Naruto's pouting. ''Man these two couldn't be any more obvious.''

''Alright you two, let's go over the training we've done for the past month. Kurotsuchi I've taught you some more powerful fire jutsu such as the fireball and the dragon flame bomb as well as some advanced water jutsu like the water dragon and you mastered them easily, as usual. Genma you've mastered the use of the wind claws technique and the wind scythe jutsu. Naruto you've improved greatly in your kenjutsu and your taijutsu is much better than before. In conclusion you three have mastered the shunshin in only one go, and not to mention that you all have your own variant of it. I think you're all gonna be okay for the finals.'' Mako complimented with a smile.

''You know we'll pass sensei, that Mei girl is going down.'' Kurotsuchi declared.

''You've got it easy, I have to fight that Fuu girl.'' Grumbled Naruto.

''Um, did you forget that I'm fighting Shino?'' Genma interrupted. ''You know what, you can complain about your opponent Naruto you're right, Fuu is definitely the harder opponent compared to Shino.'' The brown-haired teen said.

Stretching, Naruto gets up to leave only to be grabbed by the collar by Mako. ''Not yet Naruto, we're going to get a last minute discussion about something important.'' Mako said.

''Whaaaaa?! But I'm tired from training the past three weeks! I want to go home and rest!" Exclaimed a disappointed Naruto.

Kurotsuchi and Genma was feeling the same way, she wanted to go home and maybe invite Naruto over to her apartment so they can spend the night together but she was a bit curious as to why Mako wanted a bit of last minute discussion with Naruto.

''Sensei what kind of discussion are you talking about sensei?'' Asked Kurotsuchi.

Letting Naruto go she places her hands on her hips and sighs. ''Well, it involves just one thing. The Kyuubi's seal.''

-Unknown cave in the Land of Fire-

Deidara, Kisame, and Tobi are seen with several other figures clad in the Akatsuki robe. One was a woman who had purple hair and amber eyes with a piercing under her lower lip and an origami flower in her hair. Another was a man with red hair and grayish brown eyes. The next figure was a man who appeared to have slick back grey hair and purple eyes and carried a rather large three-bladed scythe. The last figure was man who appeared to be wearing a mask and had tanned-skin and green irides.

''So, are we all prepared for our strike?'' Nagato asked.

''Yeah but I swear that mummy fucker is fucked up. Using us to try to do some shit like this.'' the man carrying the scythe quipped.

''I believe we're screwed either way. We'll be dealing with the Kage potentially and if we survive but fail that asshole is going to kill us.'' spoke the masked Akatsuki member.

''Do not think about us failing. We'll do this so we can remain on his good side.'' said the blue-haired woman.

''Precisely, let's head out everyone.'' Nagato said.

With that all the Akatsuki members departed the cave and headed straight for Konoha.

-Third Training Field-

''Huh? What about the Kyuubi?'' Naruto asked in confusion.

''First, do you two remember when the Kyuubi's chakra flared around him and his nails, hair, and teeth changed?'' Mako asked the other two earning nods from them. ''Alright, and Naruto, do you ever feel like you always have more than your own chakra inside your body?''

''Yeah, that wouldn't happen to be the Kyuubi's chakra I can feel in me would it?'' Naruto asked.

''That's right, there's one thing that you can use to your advantage and that's being able to harness the power of the Kyuubi's chakra.'' Mako said.

The three Genin were shocked to hear this. Naruto is able to harness the power of the Kyuubi's chakra?!

''So, if I can use the Kyuubi's chakra I can become even stronger?!" Exclaimed Naruto.

''That's right, any Jinchuuriki is able to do this but you haven't tried to harness the power yet compared to the others so there's one thing I want to see.'' Said Mako.

''Hm? What would that be sensei?'' Asked Naruto.

''Your belly. I need to see your belly so Kurotsuchi could you lift up Naruto's shirt please?'' Mako said plainly looking at the Iwa girl.

Kurotsuchi blushed and almost screamed. ''She wants me to lift up Naruto's shirt?!''

''Wha!? Kurotsuchi lifting up my shirt?!'' Naruto thought frantically with a blush.

''Come on Kurotsuchi, don't be shy it's a trust exercise.'' Mako said smiling.

Naruto and Kurotsuchi were reduced to blushing messes, Naruto had never been exposed in anyway in front of Kurotsuchi and Kurotsuchi had never seen that part of Naruto before.

''Yeah Kurotsuchi, come on, lift up his shirt.'' Genma whispered into the Iwa girl's ear.

''Y-you trust me don't you Kurotsuchi? Because you know I do.'' Naruto said looking the other way to prevent his blushing face from being seen.

''Fine! Take off your jacket Naruto.'' Kurotsuchi ordered, complying Naruto takes the orange combat jacket off leaving himself in only his white t-shirt. Raising his hand high Naruto looks at his teammate and nods. With Naruto's approval Kurotsuchi then reaches for the hem of his shirt and slowly takes lifts it off his body.

''It's just a trust exercise.'' Kurotsuchi thought with a slight blush.

Finally the shirt came off and Kurotsuchi placed it on the ground next to Naruto's feet.

''Kurotsuchi wait, don't set his shirt on the ground like that you'll dirty it. Could you hold it for him please so it doesn't get dirty?'' Said Mako bluntly.

''She wants me to hold Naruto's shirt!?'' Kurotsuchi thought before nodding. ''Yes sensei.'' She then picks up Naruto's shirt and holds it close to her chest.

''Alright Kurotsuchi step aside real quick, and try not to peek okay?'' Mako said in an almost teasing voice while she moves closer to Naruto.

''Sensei what is the point of this?'' Questioned Naruto.

''Build up your chakra Naruto.'' Ordered Mako bluntly.

''Fine.'' Naruto performs a hand seal and a gust of wind blows out around them.

Several minutes later a seal appears on Naruto's belly confirming Mako's suspicion. ''So that's the formula Minato-sensei used to suppress the Kyuubi, a double tetragram seal with an 8-sign seal. I see now, so if any of the demon's chakra escapes it will be channeled into and suppressed by Naruto's own chakra. Minato-sensei, you did this to make sure Naruto is protected at all times.''

Genma and Kurotsuchi were now looking at the seal, wondering what it was. Well, Kurotsuchi was still looking at Naruto's abs even with the seal partially covering them.

''Sensei what's that seal?'' Genma asked.

''The seal the fourth Hokage put on Naruto to seal the Kyuubi within him.'' Mako answered as she gets up. ''Okay Naruto, you can put your shirt back on.''

Naruto takes his shirt from Kurotsuchi and picks his jacket up and proceeds to put them on, now that she had looked over the Kyuubi's seal Mako nods before turning the other direction. ''You know Naruto, if you manage to successfully harness the Kyuubi's chakra you would easily be the strongest shinobi to ever live.'' Mako said.

''Really? You mean that?'' Asked Naruto excitedly.

''Well, I did say if you can harness it so when the finals are over I'll get someone who can teach you to harness the Kyuubi's chakra, be seeing you during the finals bye!" Mako then uses her signature raven shunshin leaving the three Genin alone in the training field.

''Oh man why does she always do that?'' Naruto complained.

''Beats me, oh well we're done training so what do you guys want to do?'' Kurotsuchi asked.

Genma just stretched and cracked his neck before walking off. ''I think I'm gonna go home and take a nap, can't get in the way of a budding relationship you know. Smell ya later!" Genma then disappears with his wind shunshin which looked like a small tornado.

With their sensei and teammate gone to who knows where Naruto and Kurotsuchi were now left alone in the field. Since they pretty much didn't have anyone home waiting for them Naruto decided to speak up.

''Hey Kurotsuchi.''

''What is it Naruto?''

Naruto then began blushing moderately, despite knowing her for close to five years the blonde was still very shy when it came to asking Kurotsuchi something.

''Do you um, want to get some ice cream together?'' Asked the nervous blonde.

Now it was her turn to be the teasing and confident one.

''You mean like a date?''

''Wha?! No not at all! Just two best friends getting some ice creaml! Yeah that's what it is!" Naruto protested while holding his hands up in defense.

''Fine, let's go get some ice cream, it is pretty hot today.'' Kurotsuchi said motioning for the blonde to follow.

''Phew! For a second there I thought she was going to pulverize me if I was asking her on a date!" Thought Naruto with a look of relief.

-Konoha Shoppete-

After making their way back to the village Naruto and Kurotsuchi decided to have a late afternoon and are seen eating some ice cream and they each had a plate of teriyaki set in front of them. All paid for by Naruto of course.

''C'mon Kurotsuchi I don't to pay for the next meal.'' Complained Naruto as he holds onto his precious frog wallet.

''The guy always pays Naruto, you know that.'' Kurotsuchi said as she takes a bite from her ice cream. Just then an idea came into her head. ''Say, would you like to try some of mine Naruto?''

''Um, but we have the same flavor.''

''Just, try some of mine.'' Kurotsuchi insisted.

''Fine!'' Naruto then leans over the table as Kurotsuchi reached her arm out and as soon as Naruto's face got close to the ice cream Kurotsuchi reached for the back of Naruto's head with her other arm and shoved it into the ice cream.

''Agh! Cold!'' Cried out the blonde as he reaches for the napkin dispenser and goes to clean his face.

''Ahahahaha, I can't believe you fall for that every time Naruto!" Kurotsuchi got out between laughs.

As the two of them continued on their business two figures walked up to them.

''Well hello Naruto, Kurotsuchi.'' A voice spoke out.

Looking behind them the two see Mei and Fuu standing before them.

''Oh hi Mei, Fuu what have you guys been up to?'' Asked Naruto.

''Oh well you know, training with my teammates, finals tomorrow, and a bit hungry. Say you don't mind if we join you guys do you?'' Mei asked.

''Emm, sure I don't see a problem with it.'' Kurotsuchi said pointing to two seats at the table.

The auburn-haired and mint-haired girl then took their seats, Mei next to Kurotsuchi and Fuu next to Naruto. The second Fuu sat next to Naruto she immediately began to poke him in the arm like a curious monkey. ''Tomorrow I'm gonna pay you back for bumping into me!" Said the Taki kunoichi.

''Awe man, please stop poking me Fuu.'' Naruto said as a rain cloud appeared over his head.

''When I win tomorrow then I will!" Fuu yelled before poking him with two fingers.

Kurotsuchi and Mei giggled at Fuu's seemingly obsessive poking of the sulking Naruto. Mei turned to look at Kurotsuchi and opened her mouth to ask a question she has been dying to ask since they first met a month ago. ''So Kurotsuchi may I ask this question?''

''If it's about what my affinities are I'm not telling you anything.'' Kurotsuchi answered as she goes for a bite of her teriyaki and rice.

''No no, it's not that, I much prefer to see it in combat tomorrow. I was just curious about one thing. The question is are you and that handsome blonde right there together?''

Kurotsuchi damn near choked on the piece of teriyaki chicken that was in her mouth, swallowing the food she looks at Mei with an exasperated look and a massive blush on her face. ''Wh-what do you mean..together?!''

Mei just simply giggled into her hand. ''You know what I mean Kurotsuchi, are you and Naruto...boyfriend and girlfriend?'' Mei repeated.

''Um, uh um.'' Kurotsuchi's heart began to pound harder in her chest as she looked at Naruto and thank Kami he was still sulking from Fuu poking him to notice Mei's quesiton. ''Um. um.''

''Oh come on Kurotsuchi, it's just a yes or no answer now don't be shy.'' Mei teased. She then reaches for a piece of teriyaki chicken on Kurotsuchi's plate. ''You know, I find myself drawn to how handsome Naruto is. Those spiky, blonde locks, his deep voice and blue eyes. Not to mention those...whisker marks.''

Kurotsuchi was doing her best to suppress her blush.

''You know Kurotsuchi, I personally think you two are good together. I mean, he seems to care very much for you. Admit it Kurotsuchi, you like Naruto and you desire to be with him do you?'' Inquired the Kiri girl.

''W-well, em I um.'' Kurotsuchi stuttered.

''Oh silly Kurotsuchi don't be shy to admit you like someone, I'm sure Naruto would be thrilled to know you have feelings for him.'' Mei giggled. Seeing that Kurotsuchi was on the verge of becoming more of a blushing mess then she already was she got up and grabbed Fuu finally freeing Naruto from the mint-haired girl's pokes of doom.

''Well we had a fun time with you guys but I hear our senseis calling so toodle-loo!" Mei waved good-bye while Fuu was busy poking the air in the direction of Naruto.

Now freed from Fuu's poking Naruto rubs his forearm and looks at Kurotsuchi who appeared to be staring at him.

''Kurotsuchi are you okay?'' Naruto asked.

The sound of Naruto's voice snapped her out of her daze. Shaking her head Kurotsuchi grabs her ice cream and rubs it against her face to cool down her face from how hot had gotten. ''Yeah I'm fine Naruto no need to worry!" Kurotsuchi said.

Naruto just tilted his head as the ice cream on Kurotsuchi's face began to melt near instantly. ''You sure? You seem hot.'' Naruto placing a hand on Kurotsuchi's cheek.

The touch of his hand on her cheek made her feel even warmer and she gently pushed the hand away. ''I'm fine Naruto, just a heat flash is all.''

''What's a heat flash?''

''Nothing! I'm just blabbering nonsense! So what do you want to do now?'' Kurotsuchi reassured her best friend.

Naruto looked at the clock that was on a pole in the shopette and saw that it was about six in the evening. ''Why don't we just spend the rest of the day at your apartment Kurotsuchi? I mean, with the past four weeks of training we've been doing with Mako-sensei we barely had time to be together. Just me and you.'' Naruto said with a smile that melted Kurotsuchi's heart.

''Sure we can. We can..well do things that best friends always do, like share stories.''

''Alright then, let's go!'' Naruto and Kurotsuchi got up from their table and walked out the shoppete with Naruto leading the way.

-Kurotsuchi's apartment, around 9 PM-

''And that's how I discovered that I can use lava release.'' Kurotsuchi concluded with an evil smile.

Naruto was left with a deadpan expression, who knew Kurotsuchi learned that she could use lava release by melting a bandit who tried to attack her on the streets of Iwa. ''Boy people must've been scared of you huh Kurotsuchi?''

''Oh yeah, the boys in Iwa were scared of me...but only that's because I am the Tsuchikage's granddaughter.'' Kurotsuchi said. ''Because of that no one wanted to be my friend because of some dumb title, well the only friend I had at the time was Deidara but screw that guy, he can screw a clay doll for all I care. That bomber asshole.''

The mentioning of Deidara's name reminded Naruto of something that he heard the Akatsuki member say when they and Genma encountered the missing-nin in the forest of death. ''Kurotsuchi?''

''Yeah?'' Kurotsuchi looked at Naruto and saw that he looked a bit sad. ''Naruto what's wrong?''

Naruto took in a big breath before answering. ''It's just that..Deidara said something that I've been thinking about since that encounter.''

''W-what do you mean?'' Kurotsuchi hoped Naruto hadn't remembered the words Deidara said but with the somber attitude he had he appeared to remember.

''Deidara said something along the lines of you loving him, is it true?''

Kurotsuchi's face went blank hearing that, ''Crap, he knows I used to have a crush on that traitor!"

An awkward silence filled the air for a few minutes. Feeling that he made things awkward between them Naruto was about to get up to leave when he heard Kurotsuchi say something.

''I don't Naruto.''

''What?''

''I said I don't Naruto, I do admit when I was little I used to have a crush on that asshole but when he bombed my village and left us all those feelings died. So no, I don't love him at all. I do however would love to cut his head off and put it on a pike!" Declared a determined Kurotsuchi. ''Oh yeah! When I get my hands on that clay-dicked douche I'm gonna give him a world of pain! You can help too!" Concluded Kurotsuchi with a light laugh.

''Haha, that's pretty funny, I guess that asshole's got what's coming to him huh?'' Naruto got out between laughs.

''However, there is something I've wanted to tell you for a long time Naruto.'' Kurotsuchi said making Naruto's laughs come to a halt.

''Oh? Do tell.''

Kurotsuchi then reached over the table and took both of Naruto's hands into hers and moved her face closer to the blonde. There was only one thing going through Kurotsuchi's mind at that point, when Mei teased her about Naruto earlier in the afternoon that she couldn't hold it in,Mei was right, she had to tell Naruto how she felt about him.

''K-Kurotsuchi what are you doing?'' A visibly blushing Naruto asked.

''Just listen Naruto, you asked me if I loved Deidara and I said no, I do however want to tell you this.'' Kurotsuchi swallowed a large amount of spit, a huge blush began to form on her face as she tried to bring the courage to speak. ''You know we've been through a lot the past five years, we've been on missions together, trained together and I'm talking about when it's just me and you by the way. Ah fuck it, I'll just get straight to it. Naruto I...I.''

''Em,erm you what?'' Naruto said as Kurotsuchi's face moved closer to his. Massive blushes on both their faces.

''I...I..''

Just then there was a knock on the door.

''Son of a bitch!" Kurotsuchi screamed out loud.

''Huh, I wonder who could be visiting you late.'' Naruto said as he watched Kurotsuchi get up from her chair and stomp toward to the door. Opening it she sees Genma standing there.

''What is it Genma!? Can you not tell what time it is!?'' The now agitated Kurotsuchi growled.

''Yo, Mako-sensei told me to...am I interrupting something here? I did hear you scream son of a bitch.'' Genma took noticed of Naruto sitting on the table and that both his teammates had blushes on their faces.

''Yes, yes you did. Now what were you going to say?'' Kurotsuchi said.

''I wanted to say that Mako-sensei told me to tell you to not stay up so late, we have to get up early tomorrow and head to the stadium at nine sharp.''

Kurotsuchi's angry face then slowly turned in a happy smiley one, a rather creepy smiley one. ''Thank you for the heads up Genma.''

The camera then pans out a considerable distance away from Kurotsuchi's aparment complex when..

''Lava Release: Quicklime Congealing Technique!"

''Urmf!'' A mass of quicklime is seen flying away from Kurotsuchi's apartment with two legs and a senbon sticking out of it. ''O comwon Kuwotsuchi!'' The muffled voice of Genma was heard.

''Well, that takes care of him. Now where were we Naruto?''

Giving out a big yawn Naruto rubbed his eyes and stretched his arms before getting up and taking his jacket off the coat hanger.

''Where are you going Naruto?'' Kurotsuchi asked.

''Home Kurotsuchi, I'm too tired right now so could you tell me whatever it was you wanted to say next time?'' Naruto proceeded to walk to her door only to stumble.

''Woah Naruto, you okay?!'' Kurotsuchi asked as she picked up the blonde.

''So, sleepy...'' Naruto mumbled.

''Naruto, come on you're too tired so why don't you spend the night here? You can sleep on my bed.'' Kurotsuchi then took Naruto to her room and gently laid him on her bed. ''There, the bed is yours tonight.''

''Yawn, where will you sleep Kurotsuchi?'' Asked the increasingly tired Naruto.

''I'll just sleep on the couch, no big deal. Good night Naruto.'' Kurotsuchi turned to leave only for a hand to reach up and pull her down onto the bed. ''N-Naruto what are you doing?!'' Kurotsuchi said as Naruto wrapped his arms around her and began to snuggle her. ''Naruto?!''

The position they were in saw Kurotsuchi's face resting against Naruto's chest with her arms pinned to where his abs would be. For Naruto his chin was resting on her head and his arms were wrapped around her waist.

''Yawn, good night Kurotsuchi.'' Naruto said before he started snoring.

It took all the energy within her to avoid screaming and squealing out of embarrassment. ''He wasn't fully aware he wasn't fully aware!" Kurotsuchi thought frantically until she was able to calm herself. ''Okay, this doesn't feel bad at all, at least I don't get to freeze in the living room sleeping by myself.'' Kurotsuchi then closed her eyes and rested her head into Naruto's chest before sleep took over.

''Goodnight..Naruto.''

The next morning..

*Knock knock*

''Yo! Kurotsuchi! Naruto! We gotta go!" Genma shouted out hoping his teammates weren't sleeping in. ''What's taking them so long?'' He knocks again. ''Yo!''

He then hears someone shunshin behind him and turns to see Mako walking towards him. ''Oh, hey Mako-sensei.''

''Morning Genma, still not able to wake those two up yet?'' Mako said.

Genma shook his head, ''Nope, I think they stayed up all night.''

''Alright then, let me get the door.'' Mako then takes out a kunai knife and inserts it into the keyhole. She tinkers with it for about thirty seconds before the door clicks open. ''Got it.''

''Pushing the door open Mako and Genma walk into the apartment to find the lights in the kitchen and living room still on and Naruto's orange combat jacket on the floor. ''Psh, check the room.'' Mako and Genma then walk over to Kurotsuchi's room and open the door and were greeted to a sight they didn't expect.

Naruto and Kurotsuchi were sleeping side-by-side holding on to each other. Kurotsuchi had one arm wrapped around his neck while her other was on his cheek. Naruto had both his arms wrapped around her waist.

''Oh, I see now.'' Mako said before she prods them both gently. ''Pssssssssssst, Naruto, Kurotsuchi wake up!''

Both the pink-eyed girl and the blonde boy began to stir and separated as they sat up rubbing their eyes. They both gave out big yawns before opening their eyes.

''Wow, that was the best sleep I've ever had!'' Kurotsuchi said stretching before noticing her sensei and Genma, ''Mako-sensei? Genma? What are you guys doing here?''

''We...'' Mako was about to speak when Naruto started talking.

''Best...sleep...ever! Oh hey sensei, Genma.''

Genma was about to explain what was going on and wanted to ask about the position they were sleeping in until Mako covered his mouth. ''Anyway, finals starts in an hour so hurry and get ready!"

''Oh that's right! The finals! Come on Naruto we need to get ready!" Kurotsuchi tossed Naruto his boots while she put on her brown vest and wrapped her red konoha headband on.

''Shit! I think we overslept!" Naruto exclaimed in shock as he puts his boots and his headband on.

''Ready!'' The two teens said.

Mako just let out a giggle. ''You guys have bedheads.'' Mako then produces a mirror from Kami knows where and let the two of them look at their reflections.

''OH MY KAMI!" Naruto and Kurotsuchi screamed in unison.

''Hey quiet down you two, you're gonna wake the neighbors!'' Mako as she walks over to Kurotsuchi's dresser and took out a comb from the drawer. I'll take care of your hair Kurotsuchi. Naruto you can just shake your head a few times and it'll go back to normal.'' Said Mako.

''Yeah..I'll just go wait in the kitchen then.'' Genma said before he left.

Mako was about to take care of Kurotsuchi's bedhead when Naruto approached her. ''Hm? What is it Naruto?'' Asked the Uchiha.

''I um, I was wondering if..may I do Kurotsuchi's hair?'' Naruto asked twiddling his fingers.

Raising her eyebrow, Mako looks to Kurotsuchi who seemed a bit nervous. ''Naruto will do your hair okay Kurotsuchi?''

Kurotsuchi only nodded in response. Mako smiles and hands over the brush to Naruto. ''Be gentle okay? A girl's hair is delicate.'' Mako said before leaving the two alone in the room.

With Genma and Mako gone Naruto stands behind Kurotsuchi and begins brushing her messy hair.

''You know, I've always loved your hair Kurotsuchi.'' Naruto complimented as he continued to tend to the jet black hair.

''Yyou think so? I never really take care of it. I just hop into the shower, get out and dry it off with my towel.'' Kurotsuchi said with a slight blush.

''Yeah! It's really nice! So soft and smells great!'' When Naruto realized what he said he froze. ''Um. I meant..''

Kurotsuchi turned to look at Naruto and smiled. ''Thanks Naruto, your really do know how to charm a girl.'' She said giving him a wink.

''Y-you're not mad at me?''

''Of course not, no one's ever complimented me the way you have, as if anyone has ever complimented me at all.'' Said Kurotsuchi as Naruto begins to brush her hair again. Silence filled the room once more and Kurotsuchi decided to return the favor. ''I like your hair too Naruto.'' She said making the blonde blush.

''You..you do?'' Asked the blushing Naruto.

''I do, I've always been intrigued with blonde, spiky hair. Looks good on you.'' She said as Naruto finished brushing her hair.

''Oh well. hehe, thanks Kurotsuchi.'' Naruto said while scratching the back of his head nervously.

''You're welcome.'' Kurotsuchi then looked into the mirror and saw that her hair looked even neater than it normally did. ''Naruto you're good at brushing hair you know.''

''Heh, I am?''

''Yeah you are.'' Kurotsuchi then turned around and looked at Naruto. ''Thank you Naruto.''

''You're welcome Kurotsuchi.''

Kurotsuchi then takes her katana and straps it to her hip, ''We should go now. Can't be in the kind of Genin who would miss a final would we?'' Kurotsuchi said.

''Oh! Yeah let's go!" Naruto grabbed his jacket and ninjato and the two head out into the living where Mako and Genma were waiting.

''Done?'' Mako asked handing them both protein bars.

''Yeah, let's get going everyone!'' Naruto said taking off out the door.

''Oh Naruto, so fast.'' Giggled Mako.

''Oi.'' Genma said face-palming

''So hyperactive.'' Kurotsuchi said shaking her head as they follow suit.

-Chunin exam stadium-

The camera pans across the stadium showing the various civilans who have come to enjoy the finals of the Chunin exams. Four Jonin however stand out from the crowd at we see Mako, Kakashi, Kurenai, and Asuma sitting with the crowd to assume their positions as security for the matches since the five Jinchuuriki are all participating today.

Among the spectators we see the third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi. There were three other figures joining him and they are revealed to be the three of the other four Kage. They were as follows; Haku Yuki who was Mizukage of Kirigakure. To Haku's left was the Raikage A of Kumogakure and to his left was Rasa Sabaku of Sunagakure.

''I am pleased to have been invited to join Hiruzen-sama. Thank you for having me.'' Haku said with a nod.

''Yes I agree. Even though we fought bitterly against one another thank you for having me join you here Lord Hokage.'' A said.

''I agree as well. Thank you Hiruzen-sama.'' Rasa said with a smile.

Hiruzen smiled at his fellow Kage and returned their kind words with his warm smile.

''It is my pleasure to have you three here. Though it is a shame Onoki isn't here.''

Rasa rolled his eyes. ''Shouldn't be too surprising.''

Hiruzen shook his head clear of the thought that Onoki wasn't with them and decided to begin his announcement of the finals. Getting up from his seat he walks to the end of the stand.

''Welcome all and thank you for coming to Konohagakure no Sato to watch the Chunin exam finals! It is suggested that no one leave while the matches are in progress. It is because me and the other Kage that these exams are possible. Right now we will begin the final rounds where these fourteen Genin standing before you will compete with each other for the title of Chunin! We hope you enjoy and thank you once again!"

The other three Kage then wave their hands to the crowd before assuming their seats.

Standing in the middle of the battleground we see the fourteen remaining Genin standing in a line and before them was their next proctor who was a woman with long, brown hair that went down to her lower back and she had two rectangular purple markings on her cheeks. Her outfit consisted of the standard Jonin flak jacket and her Konoha headband was around her neck.

''Hello everyone, my name is Rin Nohara and I will be the proctor for the finals of the Chunin exams. Let me start off by saying congratulations to all of you for making it this far. You all realize that this is a step further into your ninja careers and the road only gets tougher from here so I want everyone to try their best got it?'' Rin said earning nods from the Genin.

''Um, question, question.'' Naruto said raising his hand.

''Yes? What is it Naruto?''

''What are the rules?''

Rin simply giggled.

''There are no rules Naruto. The fights will continue until one candidate in incapacitated, concedes defeat or dies...or if I step in whenever I deem a candidate incapable of continuing.'' Rin said in a sweet tone.

''Oh, um. Alright.'' Naruto said giving Rin a look.

''Okay, if there aren't anymore questions let me show you the list.'' Rin takes out the list of fights from her pocket and shows it to the Genin. ''Take a minute to look it over everyone.''

The fourteen Genin give the list a good hard look before Rin folds it up. ''The first match is Naruto Uzumaki of Konohagakure versus Fuu Ieyasu of Takigakure. Battle of the Jinchuurikis now that's interesting isn't it?'' Said the Jonin. ''Everyone else you can head up to the waiting area up there.'' Rin pointed upwards towards an open area of the wall.

Nodding, the rest of the Genin proceed to exit the arena except Kurotsuchi who hugs Naruto. ''Good luck Naruto, I believe in you.''

''T-thanks Kurotsuchi.'' Naruto said with a blush.

Letting her blonde teammate go Kurotsuchi follows the other Genin up the stairs.

With the other Genin on the balcony they look down and see Naruto and Fuu facing each other. Fuu, as usual was poking the air in Naruto's direction making the blonde sweatdrop.

''Awe man please stop that Fuu.'' Pleaded the blonde.

''When I win I get poking rights for eternity!" Fuu declared.

Rin clears her throat getting the two Genin's attention. ''So, if you're both done we'll start your fight.'' Rin said.

''Oh right, sorry sensei.'' The two Genin apologized.

''Now, if both combatants are ready, begin!"

With Rin giving the signal Naruto draws his ninjato while Fuu draws kunai knife and both Genin charge each other.

''Take this!" Naruto shouted bringing his sword into a diagonal slash only for Fuu to raise her kunai successfully blocking the swing.

''Gotta try harder than that blondie!" Fuu said before going in for a kick aimed at the blonde's chest.

Naruto reacts quickly and quickly drops the ninjato and sidesteps out of the path of Fuu's kick. Now that he was out of the way Naruto then goes in for a roundhouse kick striking Fuu directly across the jaw sending her flying sideways into the ground.

''Whoo! Go Naruto!" Kurotsuchi yelled from the stands.

''Aw man Fuu c'mon!'' Bina, now stitched up together called out from the spectator's seats.

Fuu lands on the ground with a thud knocking the wind out of her. Rubbing her jaw she slowly gets up and draws another kunai knife. ''Damn blondie, you really are tough. I expected nothing less from a fellow Jinchuuriki.''

''A fellow Jinchuuriki huh? Which beast do you have?'' Asked Naruto.

''I'm the Nanabi Jinchuuriki mister Kyuubi.'' Fuu said as she gets up on her feet.

Rin smiles at the exchange. ''Seriously, the Nanabi and Kyuubi Jinchuuriki going at it, this match should be interesting.''

''Alright, let's get this party started!'' Naruto said as he forms a rasengan in his hand.

''Ah great, this technique.'' Fuu said as Naruto starts to run towards her. ''Not bad, let's see how you handle my...''

BOOM!

Naruto dispels his rasengan as the massive explosion catches everyone by surprise.

''What the hell?!'' Naruto shouted.

''The heck was that?'' Said Kurotsuchi and Genma.

''Hm? What's going on?'' Hiruzen said as he and the other Kage stood up from their seats.

Just then another explosion occurs and in the distance Hiruzen saw something large heading straight for the stadium. As the mass makes it's way towards the stadium Hiruzen made out what appeared to be a clay bird and spots a person riding it. As the person comes within visual range Hiruzen made out what appeared to be a cloak with red clouds on it.

''It's the Akatsuki!'' Hiruzen shouted.

''That's...evacuate everyone now!" Mako said from her seat as the civilians begin to scatter about.

''Hurry this way!'' Kakashi motioned for the civilians to run out the emergency exits joined by Kurenai and Asuma.

''Un, alright, let's drop a bomb on the stadium.'' The figure who is now revealed to be Deidara forms a medium-sized bomb and hurls it over the edge of the bird. ''Take that assholes un.'' he sneered before flying away.

''Shit!'' Rin grabs Naruto and Fuu before looking at the other Genin only to see them already around various parts of the stadium helping the civilians exit the stadium except Kurotsuchi and Genma who were in the waiting area. ''Rin-sensei hurry! Get out of there!" Kurotsuchi shouted out.

With her hands grabbing Fuu and Naruto's collars Rin tries to hop out of the way only for a flurry of kunai to fly right for her pinning her and the two Jinchuuriki in place. ''What the hell!" Rin screamed as she and the two Genin were pinned.

''Dammit! Just what I fucking need!" Naruto said as he tries to free himself from the kunai.

''Oh man, this is it!" Fuu said closing her eyes as the shadow grows bigger signaling that the bomb was almost colliding with the battleground of the stadium until..

''Kamui!"

Reacting quickly, Mako activates her Kamui and the bomb becomes engulfed in a spiraling void and after several seconds the bomb is completely engulfed and in an instant it vanishes much to Deidara's annoyance who watched the whole thing.

''Un, that bitch again with that weird jutsu of hers.'' Deidara said in annoyance before radioing into the rest of the Akatsuki.

After receiving Deidara's transmission the other Akatsuki are now seen hopping over the gates of Konoha. The man with the three-bladed scythe appeared to be enjoying himself a little too much as he decapitates Konoha shinobi after another while his partner was shrugging it off.

''Um, you do get a raging hard on from killing don't you Hidan?''

''Shut up and join me Kakuzu!" Hidan said as he cleaves another Konoha shinobi in half.

Elsewhere we see the Sasori, the Akatsuki member with red hair using his puppets and cuts through several shinobi at once. ''Well, if Konoha shinobi are this easy to beat I might at well quit. I want a real challenge.''

The other Akatsuki members were seen battling it out with the ANBU and Konoha shinobi while one of them, revealed to be Tobi was seen casually walking towards the stadium.

-Chunin exam stadium-

''Naruto! Are you alright?!'' Kurotsuchi said as she and Genma pick up their teammate.

''Ugh, yeah what the hell happened? How come the bomb didn't go off?'' Asked the blonde.

''Mako used that weird jutsu again but I'm glad you're okay.'' Kurotsuchi gave Naruto a hug before Rin's voice got their attention.

''Come on you three we have to help the others evacuate the villagers and the five Kage!" Rin ordered as Mako shunshins behind her.

''No Rin, you're the medic so you go around and check for any wounded, I'll stay here with my students.'' Mako said earning a nod from the brown-haired woman.

''Come on Fuu we have to go.'' Rin said as she and Fuu take off leaving Mako and her students alone in the arena of the stadium.

''Mako-sensei what the hell is going?!'' Asked a shocked Naruto.

Mako looks at the blonde but before she could answer a spiraling void appears in front of them. Turning their attention to the spiraling void a figure wearing a hooded cloak and an orange mask revealed to be Tobi appears in front of them.

''Urgh, just who the heck are you you orange mask wearing freak!'' Exclaimed Naruto.

''The kamui? It must be him.'' Mako thought. ''You three leave this is extremely dangerous!''

''Huh? No way we're leaving you sensei! Your fight is our fight and you know that!" Naruto said hoping Mako would change her mind.

''Naruto is right sensei, we're helping you!" Kurotsuchi said drawing her katana.

''Sensei.'' Genma simply said.

''No. GO!'' Mako shouted in a tone her students have never heard from her before.

''Sensei...'' Kurotsuchi said.

''Go and help the others evacuate the rest of the village. Leave this man to me.'' Mako ordered.

Nodding, the three Genin shunshin out of the stadium leaving Mako and Tobi alone.

''So you came home huh?'' Mako asked angrily.

''Hm, I wonder about why you hate me so much.'' Tobi said tilting his head like a curious dog.

''Why?''

''Hm? What would you like to hear?'' Asked Tobi in an almost teasing tone looking up into the sky.

''Why come after the Bijuu?'' Mako asked.

''Hm...I guess you can say I'm doing it on a whim, maybe for peace? Maybe for war? Maybe I merely want to test out Konoha's true might to see how strong it really is.'' Tobi explained as he takes razor chains out of his sleeve and attaches them to his wrists.

When we were growing up he was always warm and kind, but now I can feel his chakra has changed to one of dread and darkness.'' Mako thought.

''Are you ready to fight? I waltz my way in avoiding your comrades just to come to see you Mako.'' Tobi said.

''I'm more than ready so if you want to lose your life right now let's start.'' Mako said coldly.

Tobi let out a laugh.

''Alright then, let's fight sister.''