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.

38. Spend Time With Me

Chapter 38: Spend Time With Me

-Forests of Kumo-

''You really must hate my guts if you're not willing to ally with an old nemesis from your Chunin days Zabuza. C'mon man I know you're better than this.'' Kenji said as he back flips to avoid an attack from the Kiri Jonin's beheading sword.

''You've defeated me many times, humiliated me and killed my friend Juzo right in front of me! You bet your life I won't forget it!" Zabuza yelled.

The two then charge each other and go in for a swing with their respective weapons. Zabuza focuses all his strength on his beheading sword and swings it with all his might and the massive blade gets caught as Kenji maneuvers one of his swords into the hole near the blunt tip.

''We've fought so many times Zabuza I know your style inside out.'' said Kenji.

Kenji then flips his sword in a way that sends the beheading sword right out of Zabuza's grip and landing on the ground several feet away.

Zabuza growled in annoyance.

''I should've expected that.''

Kenji takes the opportunity to thrust his swords forward ready to skewer the gray-skinned man but Zabuza takes out a kunai knife and deflects the blow that breaks his opponent's defense and goes right in ready to shove the kunai knife into his heart but the Konoha Jonin knew Zabuza would try this so he tosses his swords aside and catches the kunai knife in between his fingers.

''Almost got me there but it won't work.'' said the Konoha Jonin.

Using a disarming tactic Kenji manages to fling the kunai out of Zabuza's grip and grabbed the man by the collar of his Kiri vest ready to drive the weapon into his masked face but amazingly Zabuza catches the blade with his mouth as it stabs through his bandages.

''Why am I not surprised?'' Kenji thought to himself as he looks over Zabuza's shoulders and spots his swords stabbed into the ground. ''Gotta try to get to them before he somehow turns the tide on me.''

Kenji then lets go of the kunai knife before placing his hands on Zabuza's shoulders allowing him to leap over the Kiri swordsman and makes a dash toward his blades. Zabuza takes the kunai into his hand and quickly turns around and tosses the knife at his nemesis but to his chagrin Kenji had already scooped up his blades and quickly maneuvers them so that they were positioned behind his back held in an x shape that it deflected the kunai with an audible ding. He then turns around and sees Zabuza charging at him with his massive beheading sword ready for a diagonal swing.

The two once again become locked in another test of strength and thanks to their equal size neither shinobi was able to overpower the other. Seeing it was no use to try and overpower his nemesis Zabuza shoves Kenji away far enough where he created a good amount of distance between the two of them and goes into a high speed spin in hopes that the power he put into his attack would be enough to overpower his opponent.

Standing his ground, Kenji watches as Zabuza spins closer toward him and once the Kiri shinobi came within arm's reach he short hops into the air and thrusts both his ninjato into the hole on Zabuza's blade causing the Kiri swordsman's spinning attack to come to a complete halt.

''Damn!" Zabuza thought in frustration.

Kenji then takes another opportunity to deliver a powerful downward airborne roundhouse kick knocking Zabuza to the ground with a hard face plant. Grunting in pain the Kiri shinobi looks up to see Kenji tossing his beheading sword a few meters away as he slowly gets up.

''Seriously man why are you trying to kill me when we have bigger problems?'' Kenji questioned.

''Tch, don't speak too soon Kenji, I will find a way to defeat you and I don't care if it ends up costing me my life as long as I take you with me is all I care about!" Declared the Kiri swordsman.

''Tell me Zabuza, why do you want to kill me so bad? Is it because I proved to be the better of us two every time we fought during the border clash? Is it because I killed your close comrade Juzo? Or is it because you just couldn't live with the thought of being bested in battle by a better opponent? Your emotions cloud your judgement and that's why you're so dead set on settling the score with me. Had you beat me all those years ago I wouldn't have a vendetta against you because I'll acknowledge when someone is stronger than me.''

Zabuza only let out a growl in response.

''I don't need your words of wisdom I'll settle it right now. Prepare to die Kasugano and no one, not even your teammates will be able to hear you scream as you die.''

He then performs a hand seal, it was the Kiri Jonin's signature move that made him known among the great villages for the way he exploited it's usage. The Hidden Mist technique.

The immediate area was surrounded by mist as it slowly travels through the area an in a few minutes the forest was completely covered in a very thick layer of mist but Kenji wasn't fazed at all. During the Kiri-Konoha border clashes after the third war he had combated many Kiri shinobi who used this technique on a regular basis so it was only natural he understood it.

''Come on Zabuza don't think I don't understand how this technique works. I can do it too and my mom mastered it during the second war.'' Kenji said.

Despite the incredible thickness of the fog and the fact that he can literally see only a foot in front of him the experienced Konoha shinobi was undeterred.

''Kiri shinobi are infamous for their ruthless head on attacks and their silent killing methods. Knowing the way Zabuza's aggressive fighting style is this shouldn't last long as I stay focused and strike him first before he can strike me. I would use Shisui's sharingan but having encountered this before Mako told me once that it would be useless to use the sharingan, only the byakugan can counter this incredibly thick mist.''

Kenji scans the surrounding area and despite being a sensor type thanks to his parents he couldn't distinguish Zabuza from the mist as it was made of his chakra which effectively concealed him from both sensors and any who wielded a sharingan. He listens intently to his surroundings for any movement and he can faintly hear Zabuza rushing through the mist as quietly as the Kiri shinobi could and he heard Zabuza scoop up his beheading sword.

''He's got his sword, what's his next move?''

Silence would befall the Konoha Jonin before he heard something that sound like spinning blades in the distance. Knowing that as the sound of shuriken flying right at him Kenji quickly swings one of his swords around and swats the projectiles away. The clanging of the weapons hitting the dirt echoing in the quiet, foggy forest.

''You aren't taking me down with rookie moves my guy, I thought you were better than that.'' Kenji said.

He didn't get a response as there was another moment of silence before he heard devilish laughter coming from the surrounding woods.

''Heart, subclavian artery, aorta, carotid artery, jugular vein. Which one should I strike in your body Kasugano? How do you wish to die?'' spoke Zabuza.

Despite the fact that he couldn't pinpoint his exact location in the mist Kenji remained unfazed by display of intimidation and kept a straight face as he continued to listen for his nemesis. He heard some movement but couldn't tell exactly what the Kiri Jonin was up to when suddenly, he hears a whirring sound and turns around to see a faint figure several feet in front of him and it's revealed to be Zabuza running up to him with his massive sword spinning at a fast speed.

Reacting quickly Kenji raises both his ninjato up and blocks the spinning beheading sword and kicks Zabuza away making the gray-skinned man seek refuge among the thick mist prompting Kenji to maintain his defensive stance once more ready for the next attack.

''Ooh, fast reaction there Kasugano. I knew that was going to happen, but can you do the same for the next attack?'' Zabuza taunted.

As soon as the talking ceased Kenji felt a presence behind him and turned around to find Zabuza in a horizontal high speed spin with his sword held outward and as usual with his fast reaction time the Konoha Jonin short hops into the air and brings one of his ninjatos down into the hole in Zabuza's blade just like before and causes the Kiri swordsman to halt his spin as Kenji's sword held him in place. Kenji then takes the opportunity to take a swing at Zabuza and brings his other sword and seemingly decapitates the Kiri shinobi. However, Kenji notices that the corpse slowly turns into water and splashes on the grass.

A shadow appears behind him and looking over his shoulder he spots the real Zabuza lunging at him with his beheading sword.

''You're a fool! Go to hell!" Zabuza declared gleefully.

He then swings his beheading sword with all his might and strikes Kenji in the neck severing his head right off of the shoulders. The head flying into the air and adding insult to injury Zabuza performs a round house kick sending the head flying several meters away from the body. He watches as the body falls to the ground lifeless.

''Hm, so much for the son of two great kenjutsu fighters.'' Zabuza said in a mocking manner before walking over to scoop up Kenji's head. ''Now I can rest at ease knowing Juzo has been avenged.''

His victory was short-lived when the head slowly turned into water with a splash in his hands and turning around he sees a puddle of water where the supposed corpse of the Konoha Jonin once rested.

''No! It was a water clone?!''

He then feels a wind blowing furiously above him and looking up he spots Kenji descending upon him with a flaming rasengan in his hand ready to shove it into his face.

''Well, looks like you lost again Zabuza.'' Kenji said as he brings his palm forward.

Zabuza just barely manages to catch the spiraling ball of chakra and both men wrestled for control of the situation.

''Ugh, this jutsu, what the hell is it!?'' Zabuza thought with his teeth clenched. He began to sweat profusely from the heat the rasengan was producing.

The sword he was wielding started to crack as the sheer power and pressure being applied to it was proving too much for the massive blade to handle. In a split-second the massive beheading sword completely shatters as it gives away from the intense heat from the flaming rasengan. Zabuza could only watch helplessly as the rasengan heated his sword up to the point it was orange. Then, the sword shattered completely and a large piece of the blade collides with his face.

Kenji then takes the chance to maneuver the flame rasengan hitting the piece of steel from the sword and the power of his attack sends Zabuza falling to the ground with enough force to create a crater. The gust of wind from the collision sends dirt and debris flying in all directions and it was powerful enough to blow the mist away effectively dispelling the hidden mist technique as it was blown away from the gust of wind. Kenji then leaps away from the crater and watches as Zabuza lays their motionless.

After about a minute Zabuza began to groan in pain and slowly he gets up and stands in the center of the crater and it's shown that he has a burn mark on his face as well as several cuts and bruises all over his body.

''Tch, damn you Kasugano.'' he growled.

He tried to charge at Kenji but he felt a searing pain on both his hands and looking down he saw that they too were slightly burned and mangled from Kenji's overwhelmingly powerful flame rasengan.

''Dammit, I can't do a thing. I won't give up!'

He looked up and saw Kenji walking over with his swords in hand and despite the amount of pain he was in he attempted to reach for his kunai holster to pull a weapon out to defend himself with but as he pulls a knife out Kenji kicks him onto his back and places a foot on Zabuza's throat and applies pressure to it making the Kiri man gag.

''Agh!"

''I tried to reason with you and get you to understand that killing me will not only start an international incident between Kiri and Konoha, but it will also do nothing to bring back Juzo. You're so much like the Tsuchikage as you both do not want to let go of your hatred of an enemy village, or in your case me, your arch nemesis from a minor border conflict between our villages. I know how good of friends you and Juzo were Zabuza but I know that he wouldn't want you to avenge his death because right now, we need to worry about an even greater threat that looms over the horizon. Shishio Makoto has a twisted and sick goal stirring around in his head and all five great villages need to unite if we are to preserve our way of life. I'm sure you'd love to see me die in this upcoming conflict too. Now, even though we're from villages that used to clash many times I still consider you a comrade, because we're all shinobi.'' Kenji explained.

Zabuza shook his head and only let out a laugh at Kenji's foolish words although he was right on one thing. While the Tsuchikage had hatred towards Konoha Zabuza only harbored hatreds towards Kenji for all those times he bested him in combat. A grudge held against him for years.

''You say such stupid things Kasugano, if you consider me a comrade then I'm sure you wouldn't mind fulfilling my final wish.'' Spat the Kiri man.

''Alright then what's your wish?''

''You're right, I've been living a life full of disdain for you after you defeated me countless times and killing my closest comrade, that disdain, that hatred for you has been eating at me since we first fought years ago and nothing would make me more happy than to die by your hands to end the pain these negative feelings have been putting me through. End my suffering and kill me. At least I can die tasting the blade of you, Kenji Kasugano. NOW DO IT!" Zabuza spat maniacally.

Kenji only stared his nemesis down before nodding his head.

''Okay then if you really wanna die I'll do it.''

The Konoha Jonin then raised his left ninjato and held it with both his hands and goes to bring it down to skewer Zabuza through his face and as the blade came down Zabuza could only smile widely with pure glee as the thought of being killed by his arch nemesis sent feelings of satisfaction coursing through his entire body.

Zabuza then closes his eyes awaiting the black void of death to descend upon him...but...there was nothing, he slowly opened his eyes knowing that he was still alive and looked to see that the tip of Kenji's ninjato was mere centimeters away from connecting with his left eye.

''Why do you hesitate? Don't you want death to take me?'' Zabuza whispered, slightly confused.

He saw that Kenji was only staring at him with a blank expression plastering his face.

''Martyr me! For Juzo Biwa! DO IT NOW!"

Silence filled the air before a gentle breeze blew through the woods and soon Kenji would pull his ninjato away from Zabuza and sheathes both of them back into their respective places before turning around.

''I see no reason to kill you Zabuza, despite battling you as an enemy shinobi for some time I know that either of us killing each other would most likely put a great strain between the relationship our villages have and jeopardize the alliance that has been formed. For me Zabuza, I wouldn't live my life to avenge the death of a close comrade to me, because like what I said with Juzo, I know Shisui wouldn't want me to avenge his death. Do you recall when your village tried to kidnap Rin my teammate and make her the Jinchuuriki of the Sanbi? Me and Kakashi managed to save her before anything could happen and I still hold no resentment toward your village. You may argue that me not killing you now will only prolong your pain but believe me when I say this, use your emotions as a driving force to fight in memory for Juzo and bring peace to this world. Why not use that driving force to help your village and the other four defeat our mutual enemy.''

Kenji had no more he wanted to say to Zabuza and walked away leaving the Kiri Jonin bruised and battered on the forest floor. He was angry.

''Don't you leave me here without finishing this fight! Are you too afraid to kill me Kasugano! Come here and martyr me for Juzo! Kasugano!''

Zabuza's yelling fell on deaf ears as Kenji continued to walk back to rejoin the Kage at the summit building and the only sounds heard were Zabuza's frustrated growls.

His nemesis just walked on not wanting to look back at him and soon he vanished into the woods.

-Kage Summit Building-

''Oh man, finally.'' Naruto said wiping the sweat off his forehead.

For the past twelve hours Naruto, Kurotsuchi, Genma and the other Jonin were helping the Kage clean up the mess that consisted of the corpses of the Shinsengumi foot soldiers who had attacked the summit the day before. Now they were resting for a bit while the Kage discussed what their next move would be as they waited outside the building with the other Jonin. Some were napping while a few like Gaara, Yugito and Utakata were still awake.

''Man, that was some serious shit considering the amount of enemies we had to deal with.'' Genma said twiddling with his senbon.

''I wonder what the Kage are gonna do next. I mean, senpai said that the message Shishio left was his declaration of war on all five villages.'' Kurotsuchi yawned as she rested her head on Naruto's shoulder.

''Beats me, considering that the psycho mummy asshole left a note declaring war on us I guess each Kage will officially mobilize their military for battle.'' Naruto inquired.

Despite feeling exhausted from cleaning up the mess Gaara thought he could add a little something to team eleven's discussion.

''It would be the most reasonable move our Kage can make. It's better to act now then wait for their next attack.''

''That's right, despite Yagura being assassinated and our village finally being rebuilt we still are struggling to return our military strength back to what it was during the last war. We have only a battalion sized element that is properly trained and ready for battle.'' Mei said.

''We still have good old Utakata Mei and he can use his tailed-beast if he wanted.'' Chojuro inquired.

Utakata blew into his pipe before speaking. ''I have no need to use Rokubi you guys know that. It's only under very extreme circumstances that I will ask him for his power and assistance. Other than that, I'll just use my natural skill to defeat our enemy.''

Naruto then looked at Yugito. ''What about you Yugito? What tailed-beast do you have?''

''I have the Nibi and no Naruto, I won't use her strength unless I really need it much like Utakata here said. I'm already a well versed Kunoichi.'' Answered the female blonde.

Just then the door to the building opened and out walked the five Kage and their bodyguards. In Mako's case she had Yugao, Rin and Kakashi be her bodyguards as Kenji had not returned from intercepting the ANBU masked figure with the original five and hasn't been seen since the previous day and she was worried. However, she couldn't let that get in the way of her feelings as she had to continue the summit.

''Senpai!" Naruto called out as he got up and ran to his Hokage followed by his teammates.

''Naruto.'' Mako said with a smile.

''How did the rest of the summit go?'' Kurotsuchi asked.

''Well.''

''Wait, where did Kenji-senpai go? I thought he was your bodyguard?'' Genma questioned out of curiosity.

Mako's smile turned into a small frown and looked back to see that only Temari, Killer B and Akatsuchi had returned from their chase of Shishio's accomplice. She saw that Haku the fifth Mizukage was also worried since Zabuza had not returned as well.

''I don't know actually, the last time I saw him was when the other Kage and I ordered the bodyguards to chase after Shishio's accomplice.'' explained the Hokage.

''An accomplice? The sick bastard had a partner?'' Naruto questioned.

''Yeah, but they were wearing an ANBU mask so we couldn't tell who it was.''

''Well then, I guess we have to worry about more than one asshole in this fight.'' quipped Genma.

Kurotsuchi walked up to her gramps to see if how he was holding up.

''Hey gramps, what did you and the other Kage discuss this time?''

Having sat down for several hours the elderly Tsuchikage rubbed his aching temples.

''Beloved granddaughter I am too tired to explain it why not just ask your sensei?'' the elderly man said.

Kurotsuchi nodded and looked at the Hokage.

''After the encounter with Shishio, his soldiers and the note he left behind declaring war on us, we Kage decided that we will officially mobilize our military resources and we'll be using everything we got. Every able bodied shinobi, every medic and anything else useful for the war effort will be used in this fight. We will also reach out to Otogakure, Kusagakure, Amegakure, Yugakure, Hoshigakure and Yumi no Kuni for assistance. Raikage A wants us to allow our forces to amass in his village as their are several plots of unused land where we can station shinobi. We are to declare war upon Shishio in one week and we all need to be ready in that time frame as we're sure that man isn't going to hesitate to strike again soon.'' Mako explained.

''What about us Jinchuuriki Lady Hokage? Surely that man will have prices on our heads and deem us the main threat.'' Utakata questioned curiously.

''Due to what Shishio said to us when he interrupted our summit he seems to deem all shinobi equally weak and doesn't seem the type to hesitate to kill even a Jinchuuriki. Regardless we have to make sure all of you are safe from any harm because I don't want to imagine what would happen if he got his hands on any of you.'' Said Haku, answering for Mako.

''So what does that mean for us?'' Asked Yugito.

''It means you are to be protected by your respective village's ANBU at all times. They will watch you from a distance and will always be in a circular perimeter around you guys. This plan will be in place once we complete the mobilization of our forces.'' Rasa answered.

Gaara, Utakata, Yugito and Naruto nodded but Killer B on the other hand..

''Yo say ho! I don't need no protection fool I'm a deadly cool ninja tool!'' The man shouted while performing a series of hand signs.

Everyone in the vicinity sweatdropped at B's antics.

''Did this guy just call himself a tool?'' Naruto thought.

''Uh, right, back on topic. While we mobilize we each will send out a platoon sized element of ANBU across the nations for surveillance and intelligence gathering before we start heading to the front lines. Those ANBU will be trying to find information on their strength, where their bases are and their resources.'' The Raikage explained.

''Until then, the five Kage will rest in Kumo to discuss other matters.'' Rasa said.

Before any of the younger shinobi could answer Rasa all of them sensed a presence several meters away and looked in the direction from where it came and saw Kenji casually walking towards them. He appeared to be tired and a bit dirty.

''Kenji!'' Mako called out.

''Hey Mako, team eleven. How's it going?'' He said casually.

''Wait, where's Zabuza?'' Haku questioned noticing that her bodyguard wasn't with Kenji.

''I'm gonna be as blunt as possible I can with you Lady Mizukage, but your bodyguard attacked me and tried to kill me when we were searching for that masked man Shishio brought with him.''

The Mizukage widened her eyes.

''W-what?''

Haku was beginning to worry that her most trusted shinobi and bodyguard was killed by the Konoha Jonin.

''Yeah, I decided to split the group up with Temari going with master B and Akatsuchi so I took Zabuza with me to search another area deep into lightning country. He told me to go on ahead and I did just that.''

''So..what happened next?'' Chojuro asked with worry.

''As I continued to search the woods without him he ambushed me and we battled just like we did when we were younger but your Zabuza has wanted to kill me since we first fought during the border clash between our villages Lady Mizukage.''

Mei and Utakata couldn't resist shaking their heads in disapproval.

''That's very typical of Zabuza, never the type to let grudges go.'' Mei thought while shaking her head.

''What an idiot, he's always acting on his emotions, always out for self.'' Utakata thought while blowing into his pipe.

Haku had only predicted the worse to have happened to Zabuza.

''D-did you..?''

Kenji shook his head and instantly the Mizukage felt relief.

''No, I did not kill him. I merely beat him to the point where he couldn't fight back and I left him laying there on the ground. He tried to provoke me with his words to martyr him for Juzo Biwa but I simply walked away. I had the heart to go back and check on him a few hours later but he wasn't there. He must've ran off to who knows where.'' replied the Konoha Jonin.

Haku mentally sighed in relief knowing that Kenji had not slain her trusted personal bodyguard. She had known Zabuza was always irrational in his decisions and to a degree understood where the Konoha Jonin was coming from.

Kenji noticed the Mizukage looking down in distress and spoke some more.

''Listen Lady Mizukage, the reason why I didn't finish him off was because even though he may hold bad blood towards me, I never did towards him and consider him a fellow shinobi despite our history with one another. Had either of us killed the other there surely would've been an international incident and ties already formed between Konoha and Kiri would've been severed and jeopardize our alliance for this upcoming war which in turn weaken us severely that we'd be defeated.''

''I see, thank you for not killing him. You were right in your actions but, I wonder where he could've went because I'm worried.'' Haku said.

Mei, Chojuro and Utakata stood beside their Mizukage and placed their hands on her shoulder showing her support.

''He'll be back Lady Mizukage. Whenever Zabuza goes missing he always turns up somewhere.'' Chojuro said enthusiastically.

Haku smiled at her shinobi before looking at the other Kage.

''Are we all ready to head back to our village? You all must be tired traveling all the way here so the least I can do is give you guys a place to stay the night and tomorrow we can begin further discussion of battle plans.'' Raikage asked.

''Yes, Konohamaru you will head back to Iwa to inform our council of our future plans while Akatsuchi stays with me.''

''You got it Lord Tsuchikage.'' Konohamaru said with a nod.

''Gaara and Kankuro, you two will head back to Suna and do the same. Inform Pakura and she will bring it directly to the council as Temari will stay here with me.'' Rasa instructed.

The two Suna Jonin nodded.

''Gotcha dad.'' Kankuro said.

''Understood father.'' Gaara said in his usual stoic voice.

''Same with you. Utakata, Chojuro. Inform the elders while Mei will accompany me here.'' Haku said.

''You got it Lady Mizukage.'' Chojuro declared gleefully.

''I understand.'' Utakata said in his stoic voice.

Mako then looked at her three students.

''And that leaves you team eleven. I want..''

''I'll do it Mako.'' Kenji said raising his hand voluntarily.

''Kenji?''

She looked at her best friend and arch-rival and saw the look of sincerity in his eyes.

''We're almost as war here Mako and I want you to spend as much time with your students as much as possible before shit hits the fan. I know you will object to this and want to spend time with me instead but your students are more important. Now, Kage have never been the kind of shinobi to join their forces in war and you know that right? Should you choose to remain behind our lines and direct our forces I'll be the one to lead the seventh Hokage, fourth Tsuchikage and the seventh Hokage's elite bodyguard. So Mako, just have them be your bodyguards for now and I'll go and let Lord Hiruzen know about our plans. He still holds a lot of power in the village he'll be in charge until we bring our forces here. As much as I want to spend lots of time with you before we depart to the front lines your students will come first and you know Shisui would say the same right Mako-chan? Don't worry I'll come right back after telling Lord Hiruzen.'' Kenji explained with a sincere smile.

Hearing Kenji call her Mako-chan made her blush slightly. He has called her that so many times before and that was the first time she actually blushed hearing him say that, as a matter of fact that's the first time she blushed in years since Shisui died and she felt a familiar feeling in her stomach as she looked at her rival. Nevertheless she shook her head lightly and felt the blush go away. To her, she thought it was the determination and sheer fire in his voice.

''Are you sure Kenji-senpai? I mean, you've known her longer than us so it would make sense if you stayed to be her personal bodyguard. We'll go back and tell Lord third the situation it's really no problem.'' Genma said apprehensively.

Kenji nodded.

''I'm sure Genma, I can feel the strong bond you four share as students and sensei. Remember what I said during your final assessment? Mako won't be around all the time.''

The three realized that he was right. War was imminent and they knew that since Mako was a Kage she would most likely be directing their forces away from the battlefield and if it was peace she'd be at the office doing her job. This was the perfect chance to be with their sensei before everything goes sour.

''He's right Mako-senpai. We're gonna stay here and be your bodyguards.'' Kurotsuchi said.

''Yeah! But remember that no matter what we'll always be a team!'' Naruto declared.

''Even during times like this we'll most likely not see each other a lot just know you're always gonna be with us in here.'' Genma said placing a hand on his heart.

The other Kage and Jonin all smiled tenderly at the scene before them and none of them have seen such a close bond between sensei and student. Killer B was about to go into rap before A covered his mouth while Mabui, Samui and Yugito restrained him.

''We all must be on our way then. We will leave you all to be.'' Rasa said before sending Gaara and Kankuro on their way before walking away with Temari.

Haku, Onoki and A did the same and left the Konoha shinobi alone.

''So you're gonna go and tell Lord third the Kage's decision?'' Kakashi asked.

''It's gonna be an annoying walk back to fire country considering how mountainous lightning country is Kenji.'' Said Rin.

''She's right, after your fight with Zabuza I would say it's in your best interest to rest up here.'' Yugao suggested to her comrade.

Yugao was very right on that. He had been on the move for hours on end and had to beat down Zabuza to get back here alive. The shinobi each Kage had sent back to their villages left right away but Kenji thought it wouldn't hurt to at least rest the night before heading out in the morning.

Kenji turned to look at his three colleagues. ''You're right Yugao and I'm sure I wanna do this. Those three are gonna need to be with Mako more than ever now. Remember during the middle stages of the war when Kumo attacked Yu? We all were basically on our own as the older Jonin at the time were occupied with missions. Let them be with Mako for now.''

Rin then turned to Mako. ''Since Naruto, Kurotsuchi and Genma are staying with you what do you want us to do Mako?''

''Considering Kenji is heading back to Konoha, Rin go to Kusagakure and Hoshigakure to let their leaders know that we would like for their assistance. Kakashi you go to Otogakure and Takigakure. When you get to Oto tell Lord Orochimaru everything that happened with Lady Tsunade and master Jiraiya while Yugao, you will head to Amegakure and ask whoever their leader is for help. Hopefully they will join forces with us so let's get to it now so we can here from them sooner.'' Mako ordered.

''We're on it.'' Kakashi, Rin and Yugao said in unison before leaping off into the distance.

After watching the three disappear into the treeline Mako decided to head back to Kumo to head to the hotel the Raikage at set them up in.

''Guess we should be going you guys, come on.'' she instructed.

''Hang on, Naruto you got a minute?''

''Huh? What is it?'' The blonde questioned.

''I just need to talk to you about something for a bit before we head there. You guys don't mind of I borrow him do you?'' Kenji asked.

''Sure, go ahead Kenji-kun.'' Mako said with a sweetest smile Kenji had ever seen her give him. He never blushed around her but for some reason he did with this particular smile.

''Ahem, I won't be long. Come on Naruto.'' Kenji motioned for Naruto to follow him to a the edge of the treeline.

Kurotsuchi, Genma and Mako then proceeded to make their way towards the hotel where the Kage and their bodyguards will be staying.

Kenji and Naruto walked towards the treeline and the older Jonin walked up to a tree and leaned against it.

''So what did you want to talk to me about senpai?'' The blonde asked curiously.

The older man smirked.

''How's your relationship with Kurotsuchi?''

''It's going really well, though she did flip the hell out when she found out I'm the fourth Hokage's son because my dad killed her mother all those years ago. The fact that we're still together after learning about that mishap proves that we're meant to be don't you think? Wait a minute, why are you curious about our relationship?'' questioned the blonde.

''It's just how close are you two?'' Kenji asked putting emphasis on the word close.

''Pretty damn close, closer than any other person either of us know. We've known each other since she first came to Konoha ten years ago and I was the first person she met.'' Naruto explained.

''I know that little man, me and Mako used to spy on you two from a distance, the touchy subject of love between younger shinobi makes me happy.'' Kenji said letting out a content sigh.

Naruto snorted.

''You guys spied on us? What a bunch of creeps! You're only eight years older than us you're not even old. Still young senpai.''

''Well little man, Mako and I wanted to see how you were doing. Now stop avoiding the topic.''

''Well what do you mean by close..'' Naruto then saw that Kenji had a perverted look in his eyes and right then and there he instantly knew what he meant.

''Oh um...''

Naruto blushed heavily.

''So you guys have done just kissing huh? Well that's good Naruto you're both not rushing into things in your relationship. Good job little man.'' Kenji said patting Naruto on his head.

''Well, we, we do the kissing yeah but we've actually almost did it once...'' the blonde admitted and a smirk formed on Kenji's face.

''Oh really? Mind telling me when this happened?''

Naruto looked away to avoid Kenji's gaze and the older shinobi chuckled.

''Daw, don't be shy little man you can tell me anything.''

''First off you tell me a bit about your love life and then I'll tell you, fair trade?'' Naruto suggested.

Kenji knew that the blonde was legitimately going to say anything unless he got information first much like his mother. So he gave in.

''Well shit kiddo, you're just like your mom with that bargaining. Ready to hear my tales?''

Naruto nodded.

Kenji took in a deep breath and had a finger up.

''I have no love life.''

Naruto looked at Kenji with a deadpan expression.

''Uh, what?''

''Yep, I have no love life little man. I only dated like, once or twice during my Chunin days.''

''Then you should tell me who!''

''I dated Rin for a few months and she was great.'' Kenji said with a smile.

''So like, you didn't have anything serious with her?'' Asked Naruto.

Kenji shook his head. ''Nah, just casual dates is all. I mean, she actually really liked me at one point in our teen years but I've loved someone for over twenty-three years now and she handled it really well when I told her I only see her as surrogate sister.''

He was blushing madly and this didn't go unnoticed by Naruto so the younger shinobi knew he had to get answers.

''Tell me, who is it? Who's the lucky lady who has Kenji-senpai's attention?''

''I'm afraid I can't tell you that but, I will say she was the first person I laid eyes on at the academy and when I saw my heart exploded, not literally but you know. ''

''Oh come on senpai.''

''Nope, I have seniority over you so drop it Naruto.'' Kenji said sternly.

Naruto pouted in annoyance.

''Fine, be a grouch.''

''Will do little man. Honestly I just wanted to know how your relationship is going but first I'll tell you a bit about Mako during her late teen years.''

''Well, at least I get an interesting story from you. Shoot.'' Naruto said.

''Smart ass. It was after me and my best friend made Jonin, fun fact Mako became a Jonin at thirteen. Mako...do you ever notice that she has this look in her eyes?''

''Oh yeah, we heard that when we went to see the fire Daimyo, she's really good if she made that rank at such a young age. Also, look? What kind of look?''

Kenji sighed.

''The look of loneliness.''

Naruto placed a finger on his chin and gave that notion a bit of thought and knew that Kenji was right.

''Now that you mention it you're totally right. I have seen hints of loneliness in them but truthfully she does show pure joy when it comes to me, Kurotsuchi, Genma. I do notice the amount of joy in her voice when it comes to you. You guys seem to be the closest any pair of people can be with each other.''

The older Jonin smiled. ''Yeah, you're right.''

Kenji then looked off to his left in the direction where Kumo before his thoughts were interrupted by Naruto.

''But what does Mako-senpai have to do with the relationship I have with Kurotsuchi?''

''It's just, you probably don't know this as I'm assuming she doesn't open up to you about her love life but, she had a lover once. His name was Shisui Uchiha and he was my best friend, he was literally a brother to me.''

''Shisui? Never heard of that name before.''

''I'll just get straight to the point. Mako lost him and now there are things she can't have until she passes on. You know what I mean right?''

The blonde immediately understood where Kenji was going with this and nodded.

''Yeah...she can't have children if she wanted or get married to him. Was she really close with Shisui?''

''As close as you and Kurotsuchi little man, if not more.''

''Oh, I see, but I still don't get how Mako-senpai relates to me and Kurotsuchi.''

Closing his eyes the older Jonin looked down onto the ground.

''Naruto, the point I'm making is that since we're literally a hair away from another world war, you and Kurotsuchi should take this time to explore and dive deeper into your relationship. War can easily take people you love whether it's a friend, lover or your family in the blink of an eye like me, my mom and dad died in front of me fighting Iwa. You guys should do everything a couple in love normally does while you can. I'm not saying that to scare you Naruto it's true. In a split-second either I, Genma, Mako or Kurostuchi could die on a mission. It's the life a shinobi should live and as shinobi we live a life of constant danger. You need to live your life and experience everything it has to offer to the utmost fullest extent before it's too late. That's what Mako and Shisui did.'' Kenji explained.

Naruto knew his surrogate older brother was right. They were going to be in Kumo while the great villages mobilized themselves for war and that meant that he will be with Genma, Mako and most importantly, the love of his life Kurotsuchi. He blushed and scratched the back of his head.

''Gee um, I don't know I'm fine with the way things are between us so there's no need to go any further.''

The older Jonin nodded in understanding. He didn't want Naruto to feel pressured to furthering his relationship with Kurotsuchi because he basically told him to do it so he decided to drop the issue.

''It's up to the two of you Naruto. Please don't feel like I'm forcing things between you two I just wanted to pass on some useful information to you since Shisui died Mako has always been depressed though she never openly shows it. You three truly bring joy in her life and that suppresses her pain.''

''I agree, whenever she's with us she sports the biggest smile anyone would ever seen. Hell, I've seen that when you're with her you both sport some abnormally big smiles if I say so myself.''

''We're best friends and rivals little man of course we'd adore each other's presence.'' Kenji said before looking into the direction where Kumo was. ''That's all I wanted to talk to you about Naruto so whattya say we head over to the village?''

''Oh yeah, I could definitely use a real bed. First though, let's just take in the beauty of Kumo's skies.'' Naruto yawned while stretching his body out.

The two males looked up into the sky and watched the beautiful, cloudless sunny sky for half an hour before deciding to head to Kumo to rejoin their comrades at the hotel A wanted them to stay in.

-Kumogakure no Sato-

''Here's the place.'' Kenji said as he and Naruto stood before a grand hotel in the eastern portion of the Cloud village.

''Holy shit, it's a huge hotel.'' Naruto said in awe as he marveled at how luxurious the hotel looked.

''I know right? Kumo may seem like it's located in the shitty high areas of the northern mountains but it's known for having really nice places like this hotel and houses.''

''Should we head in? We walked really slow ya know it's like seven now. Took us two hours to get here.'' Suggested the blonde.

''Yep, you're right let's go.''

The two Jonin then walk into the hotel and see that it was an average night as there were several tourists from minor countries relaxing in the lounge and in the distance they spotted all the shinobi the other Kage had brought that stayed to protect them in a small, private lounge.

''Those guys look like they're having a swell time. Why don't you go join Naruto? Judging by the looks of it the Kage are already in their rooms with their bodyguards. Go on I'll head up and see Mako.'' the older man insisted.

''Alright, see you in a bit.''

Naruto then walked over to the private lounge and joined his teammates and the other Jonin and all the younger shinobi talked and had a great time as they ate and drank some of Kumo's finest foods beverages. Smiling at the sight Kenji makes his way over to the receptionist.

''Good evening sir, how may I help you?'' the receptionist said politely.

''Excuse me ma'am. Is the Hokage up in her room?'' Kenji said.

''Why do you want to know sir if I may ask?'' questioned the receptionist.

''I'm the Hokage's personal bodyguard and I'm sure you let the other ones stay in the same room as their Kage.'' said Kenji.

''Oh right, the Hokage did mention that her personal bodyguard would be coming I just thought it would be another female the Kage use the same gender. Anyway, her room is in the main suite on the top floor I do hope you enjoy your stay.'' The receptionist said giving Kenji a big smile.

''Thank you.''

Kenji bowed and made his way over to the stairs and ascended them to the top floor.

five minutes later...

Eventually Kenji had made his way to the top floor and he noticed that the doorway had a sign that said ''Reserved for the five Kage''.

Nodding he knew Mako's, THEIR, he meant their room would be the one at the end of the hallway as it literally has the kanji for fire on it. Walking up to the door he knocks on it gently.

Inside the room Mako was seen unpacking her stuff from a bag she sealed into a scroll until she heard the knock.

''Who is it?''

''It's me, Kenji.''

''Come in.''

Kenji turns the knob and slowly opens the door and was greeted by Mako's smiling face. The two best friends waved at each other and gave one another big smiles of pure joy.

''Hello Kenji-kun.''

''Hey Mako-chan.''

''So what did you talk to Naruto about? You guys sure took a while to get here.'' Mako questioned.

Kenji chuckled lightly.

''Oh you know, since I claim to be his big brother since before he was born we talked about stuff an older brother should tell his little brother.''

Mako raised an eyebrow.

''Oh? What kind of stuff should an older brother tell his little brother?''

''Oh you know, just stuff, like stuff about girls.''

''Did you ask him about how his relationship is with Kurotsuchi?''

''Well yeah, kinda.''

Kenji scratched the back of his head while laughing a bit nervously and this did not go unnoticed by Mako and she knew they talked about a few more things.

''Kenji, what did you really talk to him about? Don't try to hide anything from me.'' Mako said, a bit more serious this time though she still had a sweet tone in her voice.

Kenji sighed. He hoped that Mako wouldn't be too upset that he told the blonde a bit about her past.

''I, well, I told him that he and Kurotsuchi should take the chance to explore and dive deeper into their relationship. Since we're on the brink of war you never know what might happen Mako.''

Mako felt a lingering sadness plaguing her heart and looked down and instantly knew why her best friend told Naruto all those things. There were things she can never have now that Shisui was gone and it still hurt her to this day nine years later.

''What did you say to him exactly?''

Kenji knew he should've just made something up but having known this woman for over twenty-three years she loved it when someone was upfront with her no matter if the news made her smile or sad.

''I...I made a bit of a comparison with him and Kurotsuchi to you and Shisui. Those two are just like how you used to be with him before he passed on and I know that us shinobi can die anytime, anywhere on any day. So I told him to explore their relationship more when we have this time before our military comes here for war. I also said he and his teammates bring pure joy to your life and that suppresses your pain. That's all I said Mako I swear.''

Mako believed him. She knew that Kenji would never lie to her or say anything that will hurt her. He was never that kind of guy and she felt so lucky to have him as a friend.

Kenji felt the same for her. He had a strong sibling-like bond with Rin however, even the brown-haired medic herself can't compare to the bond he has with the Hokage as he knew her the longest. He looked down and stared at the floor in shame because he still told Naruto about Mako's only love life without even consulting her for permission first and he deserved to be hated by her.

''I'm not upset Kenji, I'm glad you told Naruto that stuff.'' Mako said.

''You sure? I wasn't thinking.''

Mako smiled brightly at him.

''I'm sure. I was going to tell them something similar eventually actually so you just made my job as a sensei easier.'' She said teasingly.

''Oh you devil.''

The two stood there and stared into each other's eyes and saw pure joy and happiness in them. They were so glad to have each other. Though, the two of them noticed another look in the other's eyes..it seemed to be a look of..longing?''

Realizing that they were staring at each other blushing she both shook their heads to regain their senses.

''So anyway, what should we do?'' Kenji questioned.

In her mind she knew that any of them could die out of the blue since war was a hair away and just like how he told her students to be her bodyguards while he went back to Konoha she wanted to opportunity to be with him as much as possible tonight as they won't be seeing each other for a few days at most.

''You're leaving tomorrow and you said something about my students staying here to spend time with me, so why don't we go out for a bit and enjoy the time we have together. We won't be seeing each other for a few days so I just want to make the most of the time we have here now even if it's just a few minutes. You want to go out and relax? Talk and catch up even more?'' the Hokage suggested.

Kenji smiled at his Hokage as she was right. What he said about team eleven also applied to him and he knew that but he thought they should come before him regardless of how close they were. In his mind if Mako wanted something he'd give it to her.

''Sure. Though I can't guarantee I'll get some good rest since I'll be walking all the way back to the Leaf first thing in the morning.''

The Hokage walked back over toward her bed and continued to unpacked some more of her stuff which included extra clothes and other feminine items that Kenji tried to ignore.

''Fighting those Shinsengumi foot soldiers took a toll on me so would you wait here while I go shower?'' Mako yawned.

'No problem, I gotta take a shower too. Dealing with Zabuza and being on the move for hours on end has me quite pooped.'' said Kenji as he goes to sit on the couch to wait his turn.

For some reason, Kenji felt his heart thump powerfully in his chest as he watched Mako carry her clothes while she walked towards the bathroom and he swore he saw that she added some sway into her hips as she walked.

''Kami is she teasing me or am I in a genjutsu?''

For some reason he felt like he wasn't in control of his body as he found himself making his way over towards to door and placing his ear against the door and listened intently. He heard Mako turning the faucet and the shower came to life. He then heard her take off her clothes and let them gently fall onto the floor.

''Wait, why the hell am I perving on Mako much less the Hokage? She's my best friend for Kami's sake!"

Kenji felt the urge to stab himself with his swords and he damn near did it when he takes them from his body and set them neatly on the table near the wall.

''Man I need to get my mind back on track. Why am I checking her out now of all times? It must be a genjutsu, yeah! That's what it is. I see her only as my best friend, my sister and that's it!''

After waiting for another twenty minutes he heard the shower turn off and the curtains being pulled aside. After several more minutes the door opened and out walked Mako and she wasn't wearing her usual shinobi attire but rather a casual one and Kenji was indefinitely entranced by her appearance. She wore a black t-shirt that hugged her figure tightly with violet jogging shorts that showed off her smooth and lovely legs. She had her hair tied into a ponytail leaving the bangs that framed her face untouched which wasn't what she normally wore with her hair. Lastly, her Konoha bandanna was off showing off the true beauty of her onyx-colored hair and her face in full frame. The single bang that hung in between her eyes was his favorite part of her and it always has been since he first met her at the academy and not to mention the shirt did her chest and curves some justice. She smelled lovely to him too.

Noticing her best friend gawking at her made her blush a bit as she never saw him look at her like that. The last time a man looked at her that was Shisui and even though she liked it when someone acknowledged the way she looked she wanted to snap him back to reality.

''Hello? Earth to Kenji are you feeling okay?'' she said waving her hand in front of his eyes.

It worked, Kenji shook his head and scratched the back of his head while chuckling.

''Oh sorry, I just had a heat flash. Kumo sure gets hot sometimes right?''

''Kumo never gets hot. It's always average or a little on the cold side at best since it's so high up in the mountains.'' Mako corrected.

''Shut up! I'm gonna go shower now if you don't mind ma'am.''

Kenji reached into one of the pockets in his trench coat and took out a scroll and channeling some chakra into his hands some clothes appeared and taking them with him he heads straight to the bathroom for his turn to shower.

''I'll be a while, gotta enjoy a nice, searing hot shower.''

''If you take a while I'll just have to go in and throw your ass out so we can head out.'' Mako teased.

Kenji rolled his eyes.

''Tch, women, Uchiha women.''

Mako rolled her eyes back.

''Tch, men, Kasugano men.''

The male Jonin then heads into the shower and Mako goes to sit on the bed to wait for her friend to finish. As she waited for him to finish showering she decided to just sit down at the desk and read over a book she brought along in case she got bored. It was one of Jiraiya's earliest works that was also the favorite book of Minato and Kushina. The book where they got the idea to name their son Naruto.

Having waited for thirty minutes she finally heard the shower turn off and a moment later Kenji exited the shower much like her he sported casual clothing. He wore a gray t-shirt with the Kanji for fire on the back of it and he didn't wear his headband. He wore black sweatpants and he smelled very nice and manly. His medium length hair free from the headband made him all the more pleasing for her eyes. His toned and muscular body was noticeable as well through his shirt. She found him handsome just as her deceased lover Shisui and she'd be ashamed to admit he might be more so.

''You enjoy your shower?'' she asked.

''You know it. Love showering in hot water but not too hot as I don't want to sear my skin off and look like some skeleton.'' Kenji quipped.

Mako looked at the clock and saw that it was now 8:30 and since Kenji will be most likely leaving at 6 the following morning she decided they needed to go out now.

''Soooo, you want to head out to Kumo's central park?''

''Sure, lead the way Lady Hokage.'' The man said motioning for his friend to head to the door.

''Ladies first.'' Mako insisted earning a chuckle out of Kenji.

''Psh, fine.''

Kenji then walks over to the door and opened it for his friend.

''Like you said, ladies first.''

Mako smiled tenderly at him.

''Such a gentleman.''

She then grabbed the keys to her room and put them in her pocket before exiting it. Kenji walked over to his coat and grabbed another scroll before he headed out himself. Closing the door behind him he walks to Mako who was waiting for him down the hall.

''So what shall we do arch-rival? Another challenge so I can kick your ass one-thousand and one times?'' she said teasingly.

''Haha very funny. Not at all, like you said I think this is the perfect chance for us to fully catch up and reminisce on life.''

''Sounds good, let's go then.''

The two shinobi then walk towards the stairs and into the lounge. Along the way they bumped into Naruto, Kurotsuchi and Genma who asked where they were going and after explaining to the younger shinobi they went on their merry way. The members of team eleven watched as the Hokage and her bodyguard exited the hotel and they noticed how close they were walking toward each other.

''So anyone else notice that they out of the blue started using honorifics for each other? She called him Kenji-kun.'' Genma questioned.

''Oh yeah, I also heard Kenji-senpai call her Mako-chan.'' Kurotuschi inquired.

''Well what do you expect? They are really close ya know.'' Naruto said.

There was one thing the three of them also noticed. It was the way Mako and Kenji look at each other ever since he came back and they saw a certain look in their eyes, the same look Naruto and Kurotsuchi have in them with each other.