Chapter 14
New Horizons.
Snow Village Hospital
Shisui and Naruto went to the hospital to check on Naruto's condition after changing the seal. Naruto didn't understand why Shisui was so eager to go to the hospital, he probably wanted to get some more counseling, so after waiting his turn they went into the office.
Ш... Akemi san, Itama herself advised me to contact you to check on Naruto's condition.
Akemi looked tiredly at the visitors and took a deep breath.
А... You again! Okay, Naruto, bare your belly and get into bed.
Naruto pouted his lips in displeasure.
Н... Again? How many times can you do this?
А... You want to lie down by yourself or should I help you?
Naruto decided not to take any chances and went straight to his bunk. Akemi held out a mystical hand and began her examination.
А... What can I say, I'm fine, although I feel a little sick. The seal consumes less chakra and as your personal reserve grows, the seal's boost won't be as noticeable. All right, now bare your buttocks, I'm gonna give you some vitamins to help your malaise go away.
Naruto was frightened by this turn of events, he had only hoped for an examination, and he wasn't exactly burning with desire.
Н... A shot? Why go there? Why don't we go someplace else?
А... No, that's where we need to go. I've noticed you've been suspiciously active over there, getting into adventures. And don't argue with me about who's the doctor, me or you?
Shisui chuckled at the fact that this girl had put the stubborn child in her place. Naruto himself looked down at his pants and wished it would end soon. Akemi took the syringe and with a caustic look began to administer the injection. Naruto put on his pants and started to walk out, but noticed that Shisui was in no hurry to follow him and to the child's mute question he answered.
Ш... Naru, wait for me in the hallway. I wanted to consult with Akemi san about something.
Naruto walked out into the hallway and wanted to sit on the bench, but he was pierced by a pain in his buttocks, he thought it was just a negative effect from the injection and waited for that itchy pain to go away.
Shisui, on the other hand, stayed in the office and started talking to the doctor.
Ш... Akemi san, I take it what you injected Naruto with is far from a vitamin?
Akemi began to smirk slyly and shrugged.
А... Of course not! It's just a saline solution with pepper, I used to buy them for really naughty kids. She won't hurt him, except to temper his ardor, and scratch him, that's all.
Shisui made a note to check everything she gives you to eat. But stop, she gave him the meds.
Ш... Akemi san, what about those medications you gave me, will there be no side effects from them?
А... Oh no, the nastier the medicine the more effective it is, you don't miss taking those pills, do you?
Ш... No, no, of course not!
Akemi examined him with an incredulous look.
А... Give me your pill jar!
Shisui didn't understand why all this farce was happening, but he didn't argue and handed her his jar. Akemi took the jar and poured the pills into her container and started counting, then she looked at Shisui.
А... Shisui san here is two pills extra, so you didn't take the prescribed dose twice?
Shisui realized that he had been caught red-handed, for not only could he drink, he couldn't even look at them. Grinning stupidly he started rubbing his cheek.
Ш... Akemi san, I haven't eaten since yesterday, so I was thinking.
Akemi, smiling sweetly, held out two pills and handed over a glass of water.
А... That's okay, I'll let you drink without eating!
Shisui had no choice, so he had to take the water pills, but didn't dare to take them. And Akemi was starting to get mad that her labors were going to waste and screamed in her face.
А... Swallow those pills or I'll make you chew them.
Shisui felt shocked that such a sweet girl could be so scary in anger and to avoid inflaming the situation, he quickly swallowed the pills and drank water. He wrinkled his nose, of course, but didn't let it show, so as not to offend the girl.
А... Okay, you can go now. And yes, you must also come in for a checkup so I can check your Tenketsu and your whole body. Also, tell him that if this little guy comes in with a pain in the ass, I'll have more for him.
Shisui walked out of the office with a downcast look, but the sight of Naruto grabbing his ass and jumping in pain brought back the kid's cheerful look.
Н... Sempaai, what do I do? My whole ass is on fire... It's all Akemi san's shots, I'll go tell her what I think of her.
Shisui stopped his pupil's foolish act.
Ш... She told Naruto she'd add more if you complained to her, and believe me, it's better to endure than to die from a pain in the ass like that.
Naruto stopped his exertions and decided to take the advice. Leaving the hospital, they went to the residence of the head of this snow village.
As they approached the center of the village, they saw a magnificent blue marble building that resembled the Hokage's residence, but the difference was the spiral patterns. Passing through the entrance, they went up to the third floor. After asking around for employees they entered through a metal door. The office of the head was of modern design: a glass table with chairs, movable shelves for papers and pictures of the current and past head. On the table sat a young guy about twenty years old, if not to go into detail, he was an exact copy of Itama Uzumaki, the only difference was the color of his eyes, which resembled amethyst, and he was dressed in a green-colored keikogi. Presenting himself before him and bowing low, the master of the office began first.
К... Good afternoon dear guests, my name is Kawarama Uzumaki, I am the current head of the hidden village of snow.
Ш... Thank you for your hospitality and my name is Shisui Uchiha, I am the jonin of the hidden leaf village.
Н... Hi, and my name is Naruto Uzumaki, I'm just a resident of the hidden leaf village.
Naruto scratched the back of his head, Shisui smiled nervously at his younger comrade's carelessness, but Kawarama liked the blond's childishness. After summarizing the greeting Kawarama decided to continue broadcasting so that the guests wouldn't feel awkward in the situation.
К.. My father informed me about you yesterday, and since the initiative of cooperation came from us, I would like to tell you in more detail about the essence of your stay. And so first, you must undergo training from your commander, which he himself will supervise you on the matter of getting used to and getting used to the local weather, as well as several combat training. I would like a quick learning curve on your part so that I can get started on assignments as soon as possible. Second, you need to learn the way of life in our village so you won't be in trouble with the law, of course it's no different from your village, just remember that the laws here are strict. Third, about the payment will be made on a pay-as-you-go basis, after the assignments are completed. Right, before I forget. That goes for you Naruto kun, the third one said your skills are on the level of a genin, but still I'm used to believing the facts. And so you'll have to take the genin exam at the local academy, your commander will show you around. I'm not asking for your loyalty to our village, just to be willing to volunteer!
Shisui shaped all these requirements, possibilities and came to the conclusion that everything is covered here! They are not threatened by this cooperation, as it is a kind of exchange of experience.
Ш... Kavarama herself, it all fits us. We agree to cooperate!
Naruto stood up raising his hand in the air.
Н... That's right, Karama herself!
Kawarama smirked at the couple and signaled for the door.
К... Takeshi, please come in!
The door opened and a red-haired man with a stern face, broad shoulders, long loose hair that reached to his neck, and a tuft at his right temple tied into a ponytail entered the office. He was dressed in a blue vest with a blue colored vortex sign, a red shirt, dark loose pants, the same light colored boots with open toes, the whole image was completed by a chitai on his head with a hidden snow village sign. As the man stood behind the boys, Kawarama decided to introduce them.
К... So, meet Takeshi Uzumaki the elite jonin of hidden snow, from now on he will be your captain and sensei at the same time.
The boys turned to face the jonin to get a better look. Takeshi himself stood speechless and studied his charges in the same way in response, and when he was done he simply said.
Т... You already know me, and I can always get to know you. Kawarama herself if that's all, then let us bid you adieu!
К... All right!
The guys followed their commander silently, Takeshi walked into the park and sat down with his arms folded against a tree, while the guys sat down with their legs folded and began to listen to everything their commander had to say.
К... So, kids, you know my name and my position, age 28, from food I like only fried fish, I appreciate teamwork and understanding each other, I do not like betrayal and meanness. The goal is simply to protect your village. Now you!
Ш... Uchiha Shisui, 16 years old, I am a hidden leaf jonin, I like dango, I appreciate piety and care, I don't like betrayal and unjustified wars, my goal is to protect my village.
Н... Naruto Uzumaki, 6 years old, I am a resident of the hidden leaf village, from food like ramen, appreciate persistence and steadfastness, do not like unreasonable aggression, arrogance, revenge. The goal is to become a Hokage in order to change his village, and beyond that, the entire world for the better.
Takeshi liked his charges, likes, dislikes, but about the blonde's purpose, he decided to ask.
Т... Naruto, what do you want to change the world for?
Н.. So that children are not orphaned, so that people do not have enmity for each other, so that people understand each other.
Takeshi liked the kid's outlook. He's only six years old and already understands the gist of many things, but still needs to be tested.
Т... Naruto, judging by your cohesion with Shisui, I'm guessing you've already been in combat, but you need to check it out, so let's go to the local academy, you need to do some tests and a demonstration fight... Afterward, I'll test Shisui's skills.
Though Naruto had been studying in the library, it was still his first time here, so a little would be off-putting.
Н... Takeshi san, although I know the general way of life of shinobi, I am still familiar with the history of this village in a general way.
Т... Don't worry about that, you need to answer on chakra properties, battle tactics, and printing.
Н... Speaking of seals, I only know of sealing weapons and that's it.
Т... Is this discipline really so bad in your village?
Н... To put it mildly, not at all!
Т... Hmpf, okay, well, be that as it may, you tell me what you know. The main thing is that it doesn't ruin the overall picture of you!
Н... There's Takeshi san!
Takeshi took them to the local academy. The shinobi academy was slightly different from Konoha in that it had more training grounds, and was designed for different occasions. Naruto met the local teachers, peers puzzled as to why a young child was already taking exams.
Naruto sat down at his desk and began scribbling down answers on the question form that was handed out. Takeshi and Shisui were like observers, after writing the test, it was Takeshi, not the teachers, who handed out the finished work. Takeshi read the replies, but on his calm face it was impossible to tell if he'd written well or if he'd have to work with what he had.
Т... Well, the questions are right, but without specifics, your nature is self-taught, but the result of the test revealed that you know what to do in combat situations, now let's move on to practice, follow me.
They followed Takeshi to one of the firing ranges, the man stood in the middle of the field and began to bring Naruto up to speed.
Т... So Naruto now show yourself in battle, you may use weapons, ninjutsu techniques do not use. I'll get one of the genii and you can get started.
A teenager with scarlet short hair with a straight style stepped into the clearing.
Т... All right, let's get started!
Naruto and his opponent paid respect to each other by showing a yin gesture.
They raced at each other, getting into a stance, they started throwing punches to expose weaknesses.
Naruto, catching the rhythm, of the fight began to strike making circles around his opponent. The opponent proved to be challenging and even got elbowed and kneed a few times. Naruto tried to stay away from such blows, and even began to use elbows, knees, and knees himself in response. Naruto enjoyed throwing such blows, and at the crucial moment he grabbed his opponent's arms and elbowed him in the nose while pulling him to him. The opponent, coming to his senses from such a powerful blow, grabbed his kunai and launched himself at his opponent. Naruto didn't wise up either and pulled out his kunai and began to adjust to his new to him fighting style. Sparks flew from the clangs of metal, Naruto made a deceptive throwing shuriken for his opponent to start reflecting, while the blond man himself made a slide to the side and put a kunai to his back. His opponent raised his hands in defeat, after which they both came face to face and held out a token of friendship. Both were tired, Naruto was even surprised at the boy's stamina, but when he realized that he was also an Uzumaki, all questions fell away, but the opponent was dumbfounded no less from the fact that he lost to a boy who was almost two heads shorter.
... Good fight!
Н... Yes, you are a very strong opponent!
... Thank you, my name is Hedzo, what's yours?
Н... Naruto!
Х... I hope we can have another fight like this with you. How old are you, by the way?
Н... This year it will be seven!
Х... What?
The boy was stunned, for he thought the boy was just a dwarf. But now he was thinking about making sure no one found out about it. Swallowing his embarrassment, he bowed to his opponent's bow and went on his way. Takeshi, on the other hand, shook his head and began to deduce the results of the sparring.
Т... I can tell from the sparring results that your taijutsu and weapon skills are excellent, but there's no limit to perfection...
Н... You're right!
Т... By the way, about the age thing, you could have at least lied!
Naruto scratched the back of his head, grinning stupidly.
Н... I'm sorry!
Т... Okay, now let's move on to techniques and chakra wielding for mobility.
Naruto began to show off all his techniques, water elemental, shadow clones, shuriken clones and then began to walk on wood and water that he himself exhaled. Takeshi was beginning to be a little surprised at such an arsenal in a six year old.
Т... That's incredible, if you know such techniques at that age, what should I expect from your sempai?
He gave me a slightly wry look, then continued.
Т... We'll find out now though, let's go to a bigger range.
The entire trio made their way to a range not belonging to the academy. When they arrived at their destination, it was more of an arena than a training ground.
Т... We're taking the chunin exam here, so don't hold back, Shisui, use all your strength.
They stood in the middle of the arena and started the fight with taijutsu. Shisui turned on his sharingan, but his opponent on the contrary closed his eyes and began his attack. Shisui attacked at full force but even so, couldn't understand why on earth he couldn't anticipate the attack. Takeshi attacked quickly and smoothly evaded attacks. Shisui was very uncomfortable fighting him and even thought about his opponent second guessing his own movements as he tried to strike from the back. The fighters drew their swords and went on the attack. The clanking of metals could be heard even beyond the freshwater, and the sparks coming out from the rapid blows were beginning to obstruct the view. Takeshi never once opened his eyes during the fight, preventing him from using genjutsu with the sharingan. Shisui's clothes were tattered and cuts were visible in some places. Shisui got bored with the whole farce and started with the technician folding the seal.
Ш... Cato, dragon flame technique.
He blew a blob of flame at his opponent that filled half the arena. Takeshi, on the other hand, also began to fold the seal.
Т.. Daughton, stone wall.
A wall grew beneath him and absorbed the fire power directed at his area.
Shisui relied on his favorite technique and began to fold the seal.
Ш... Shunshin's residual image clones.
Shisui started running around the arena filling in behind his clone and swarmed at his opponent. Takeshi, on the other hand, began to glow with chakra and sparkle with lightning. Takeshi was just dodging the quick blows of the clones and then after slipping past a few clones, he gained chakra in his hands and kanji started to glow on his fingers and with that seal he punched Shisui in the stomach. After that Shisui settled down on one leg feeling sick, Takeshi looking at that exclaimed.
Т... That's enough! The duel was good, you have great skill in the ninja arts. I learned a lot during this fight, I hope you learned a lesson from this fight as well?
Shisui coughed, getting up on shaky legs.
Ш... Yes, you shouldn't rely on your eyes!
Takeshi took a deep breath, showing approval.
Т.. You're a very strong opponent, usually a lot of people can't handle my pace and my style!
Shisui wrinkled his nose in pain, and at the same time Naruto came running over to him, checking the status of the chakravolta.
Н... Takeshi san, what did you do to him? His chakra doesn't move evenly!
Т... A simple seal of chakra control suppression, I'll take it off now.
Takeshi flashed the kanji on his fingers again and hit the same spot, after which Shisui stood up shaken off and feeling light.
Ш... Takeshi san, and how did you see my movements and yet you never once opened your eyes and why couldn't I read your movements with the sharingan?
Т... I used the same technique as Naruto when I started checking your chakra.
Н... What? Is that possible?
Т... As you can see. When a shinobi is about to throw out a certain limb strike, it directs chakra into the limbs before doing so, and can even be said involuntarily. I can sense such chakra movements, and I have no trouble anticipating the blows. As for the sharingan, it's very simple... I noticed that when the sharingan goes on with eyes open, the sharingan reads the movements in the brain rather than the movements themselves, so I had to close and rely on my sensorics. You were right when you said you shouldn't rely on the sharingan alone.
Shisui was stunned to find such opposition in the eyes of the great Uchiha clan, but he wasn't upset by that fact.
Ш... Thanks for the lesson Takeshi san, I hope to continue to gain experience from you.
Н... Can you teach me how to feel the chakra in the movements?
Takeshi only now allowed himself an open smile and exclaimed.
Т... Shisui, Naruto, because I was made your sensei and commander, so you can call me sensei from now on.
The boys smiled at that.
Sh and N... Yes, Takeshi sensei!
Т... Well, you are my first students, but I knew you would pass such a test and even prepared training for you in advance. Shisui, you're good with a sword, but like I told Naruto, there's no limit to perfection. Tomorrow we're going to the dojo, and there we'll practice swordsmanship, because swordfighting is very valued here. And then we'll work on chakra control using my method. Come on, I will show you the sights and tell you the way of life in our village.
They walked around the village looking at places they hadn't looked yet, both of them had a lot of questions.
Ш... Sensei, why are there more samurai than ninjas in town?
Т... Because it's very difficult for Uzumaki to become a ninja due to the large amounts of chakra. Ninjas are supposed to be stealthy. Imagine if a few Uzumaki ninja gathered in a crowd, they could be sensed even in the neighboring Land of Ice. Samurai, on the other hand, act as field troops, and it is better for them to learn techniques designed for large areas and volumes of chakra. The life of a samurai is almost no different from that of a ninja, same disciplines, but the ninjas focus most of their attention on disguise.
Н... Wait, so I can't become a ninja either if I can't hide chakra?
Ш... The situation is a bit different for you, the seal holding Kyubey hides not only the demon's chakra, but yours as well, but you should still learn how to hide your chakra from enemy sensors.
Н... I see...
Ш... Takeshi sensei, we were told by Itama herself that the village is surrounded by a barrier, but how do the residents themselves get out if they need to conduct trade on a neighboring town?
Т... Residents are given a seal of passage through the barrier. We don't let outsiders in, and our merchants or troops, even if they try to betray the village, still can't blab from behind the seal of silence. Sure, it feels like total control, but if we want to survive, we're going to have to hide. The neighboring countries still want to find our clan's treasure, and if they find our village, a new war will break out.
Ш... Are you going to hide forever?
Т... All villages are hiding, like ours in the snow, yours in the foliage, Kumo in the cloud, Iwa in the stone, Kiri in the fog, Suna in the sand. For some people, people wielding chakra is a myth.
Н... What? Are you serious? After all, every being in this world has a chakra.
Т... Yes, but they don't own it or even feel it like we do. That's it, we're here!
The trio came to an establishment that sold different types of food. Sitting down at a table, they began ordering for the waitress.
Т... As your sensei I must treat you, please give us a large portion of barbecue meat and marinated trout, from drinks only green tea with jasmine.
Н... No ramen?
... I'm sorry, we don't have that dish, but I can give you the address of a noodle shop for the future.
Н... Thank you, it would be much appreciated.
Ш... What about dango?
... We have dango, do you want it after the meat or right away?
Ш... After meat.
... All right, stand by for your order.
They sat chatting about various trivia until their order arrived. All three were hungry after their fights. After the meal, they started drinking tea and eating dango, and afterward they went home.
The next morning they met at the dojo, and there they were approached by none other than Itama himself.
И... Oh, Takeshi, so you decided to teach them kenjutsu first?
Т... That's right Itama-sensei!
Here the boys were surprised at this turn of events.
Н... What, Takeshi sensei, is Itama your teacher herself?
Т... Yeah, well, he led our team when I was still a genin. And now he is a sensei to many, and in the dojo he teaches those who choose to comprehend the art of the sword.
Н... Holy shit!
Ш... So that's why you're so strong, Takeshi sensei.
That's when Itama smiled happily.
И... Otherwise, I remember little Takeshi chasing me around on missions!
Т... Haha, yes sensei, those were the days... Come on, guys, let's go get changed and get started.
The trio went to the locker room and there began to dress in black tight athletic clothes and went back to the dojo.
Т... Naruto, as the newcomer, you'll be learning the basics of movement with the younger group, but Shisui will come with me.
Naruto went to the neighboring hall where kids were already starting to gather. Everyone stood in designated lines so as not to interfere with the movements. A kenjutsu teacher walked out to them in the middle near the wall.
З... Good afternoon, children!
All answered good afternoon, teacher.
З... My name is Zirabuki Takegawa, I am a junior kenjutsu teacher, you can call me Zirabuki sensei. First, take the wooden swords from the shelves and watch me.
Everyone followed their teacher's instructions and began to repeat the movements. And the teacher, while showing the movements, simultaneously voiced them. It went on like this for five hours, breaking off for light breaks. Naruto could already hold his sword confidently and not make any mistakes in his movements as their teacher began to sound out combinations. Afterward, they moved on to fight each other. The bout was light and designed more for sword crossing than full sparring. Shisui, on the other hand, was driven as hard as he could, with his rivals switching back and forth for five hours, and Shisui himself being banned from using the sharingan. After the dojo, Takeshi's team changed and went to the range. There they ate bento, and afterward Takeshi began to tell the gist of the training.
Т... Okay kids, today we're going to learn how to walk on wood!
Here the guys didn't get the joke and started looking back at Sensei with surprised eyes.
Т... I know you can walk on wood and water. But I told you I'd train you in chakra control. And chakra control is the most important thing for a ninja. So come over here and bare your bellies.
Takeshi placed control suppression seals on them.
Т... Naruto is currently wearing a weak seal, Shisui is wearing a stronger one so you'll be on par, when I take it off you'll feel the difference in control, but for now start running.
The guys started running up the tree, but after taking a few steps, they immediately fell down doing somersaults.
Ш... Yeah, that's gonna be harder.
Н... Duttebayo, never thought I'd have to learn to walk on wood again.
They ran like that until evening, when they collapsed from fatigue. Takeshi had been sitting in a tree the whole time looking at the area, when he noticed the guys were already exhausted he walked over to them and removed the seals.
Т... How's it feel?
Ш... It's getting better, but still my body is all sore, I haven't worked out like this since I was eight years old.
Н... Duttebayo, my legs are already shaking.
Т... Okay, now try using your elemental techniques.
The guys immediately exhaled fire and water and came immediately enthused.
Н... Wow, I've never been able to exhale water so easily before!
Ш... It's amazing, Takeshi sensei, chakra formation goes so easily, and the amount of chakra spent is many times less!
Т... That's the way it should be with good control. Adult shinobi who have excellent control won't be able to develop it further. It's like running without weights. It seems like you're running fast, but you're not getting any speed. Speaking of weights, here you go.
Takeshi handed them two pairs of white wristbands with the sign of the whirlpool, which the boys immediately put on their wrists .
Т... Channel the chakra into the armbands, and the heaviness will spread throughout your body. You can adjust the severity by feeding more or less chakra.
The guys began to feed chakra into their armbands, and it became harder for them to bear their weight.
Н... Thank you, Takeshi sensei!
Ш... These wristbands are similar to ours, except our weights are slightly larger and constrict movement.
Т... Yeah, if you admire such trinkets, it's scary to imagine what other villages might do if they found out about our technology.
Ш... People are afraid of what they don't understand.
Т... Well said, but let's not get discouraged and I'll see you at the dojo tomorrow. Remember, the sooner we finish training the sooner we get out on missions. Next week, we'll start surviving behind the wall, so don't pack your warm clothes.
Ш... All right. (chuckles)
Н... All right, we can come out!
Т... By the way, Naruto, you asked how to sense movement in combat? Are you familiar with meditation?
Н... Yes!
Т... Good, then next week, between training sessions, I'll put a perception seal on you, which means you'll learn to sense other people's chakra again. Shisui you can join too, I practice that often myself.
Ш... Good Takeshi sensei.
Н... Hooray.
They liked this sensei more and more, he didn't demand more than they could do themselves. Naruto was obviously having a hard time, but to avoid embarrassing Shisui tried to keep a stone face. This week they spent training in the dojo, chakra control training, sometimes walking on water, which was more difficult than with wood, warming up and building strength, on rest they meditated and tried to feel each other's chakra, and then went to chakra control training.
And so the day came when they stepped through the barrier into the cold tundra. Takeshi had trained them to walk silently in the snow and was pleased that they were already using the snow walking chip. They all dressed in brightly colored clothes, Takeshi reasoned that if someone doesn't notice you in such outfits, then you have good stealth. Then they would begin to walk beside the beasts and not even give any sign of their presence, for beasts have a much stronger sense than man. It didn't come out well in the beginning, but as time went on, the three of them have been together for a year or so, or not alongside the beasts. Takeshi told about different features of snowy places and even showed them how to act in different climatic disasters, for example, avalanche, storm. They didn't give up kenjutsu training, and Naruto began to beat his peers or those a little older in sparring matches. In his Taijutsu, he included elbow strikes, knee strikes, and even made up combinations by writing them down in his notebook.
And now it's been a month since they started training, Takeshi has already proven them already fully trained. At this point, the entire trio was standing near the village head.
К... Well done guys, you have completed your initial task and now you can proceed to the missions. Here are your armbands, but about the leaf armband and the Uchiha Clan insignia, I'll ask you to hide it so there won't be any problems for your village and the Shisui Clan.
Ш... Yes, Kawarama herself.
The entire trio nodded at such praise and began to await their mission, while Shisui and Naruto put on their blindfolds.
К... Takeshi, I'm giving you a mission to destroy a den of bandits. They're too much of a nuisance to our scouts, and the head of the city complained to me about them.
Т... Yes, permission to go?
К... Go!
Takeshi's team walked out of the village and headed to the scene of the action, Takeshi explaining strategy to them along the way. When they arrived at the spot they hid under the snow and watched. Takeshi signaled the start of the action, and Takeshi and Shisui went forward to knock out all the bandits, while Naruto stayed behind to cover their rear in case anyone came up behind them. In a few minutes it was over. But Naruto was standing on a bloody corpse, this was the second time he had killed a man. The older men approached Naruto and asked a mute question about what had happened here, but Naruto began to speak in a trembling voice.
Н... The man came up behind me, I felt him and machine stabbed his neck.
Ш... Naru, I thought you'd already killed a man.
Н... It was easier for me that time since I was very angry at that grass jonin, I couldn't fully control my body back then.
Takeshi understood what all the fuss was about.
Т... Killing a man in blind rage and killing a man with a cold mind are different things, consider that time never happened. Now take a deep breath and try to bring yourself to your senses. Remember who we are, we're shinobi, we're assassins, killing is our job.
Takeshi rubbed the blond's head and went to tie up the criminals, while Shisui began to burn the corpse. Naruto was well aware of who shinobi were, but still killing wasn't given so easily in the realization. Naruto shook his head and threw away the unsolicited thoughts, then went to help his elders. When they were done, Takeshi walked up to them.
Т... I've signaled our patrol, and they're taking these men to jail. In the meantime, step back a few meters.
Takeshi folded the seals and then pointed his left hand towards the sky and his right towards the den. Lightning sparked in the sky, and that lightning bolt headed to Takeshi's left hand, and with his right he let the lightning bolt into the lair, which was immediately destroyed, leaving behind sparks of lightning. Naruto had even forgotten that he had killed a man a few minutes ago and was now marveling at the technique. Shisui tried to look at the technique with his sharingan and was stunned that Takeshi was using the energy of nature.
They waited for the patrol, and then they retreated back to the village and continued their training and missions. They also remembered to send a letter to Hiruzen so he wouldn't worry about them.
One day the boys were called to visit Uzumaki Itama's house, they tried to discourage training, but Akemi's heavy hand knocked all protests from their heads. So today they arrived at the house where they were greeted by the lady of the house. The woman herself looked young despite being 52 like his husband. Her hair was the same as her daughter's, only it was straighter and without bangs, her eyes were an emerald hue, and she was dressed in a red dress with a white shirt.
С... Good afternoon young people, my name is Uzumaki Sansho, wash your hands and please proceed to the kitchen, everyone is already waiting for you there. The whole family was seated at the table, the boys, having washed their hands, sat across from each other. Sansho put various delicacies of fish and beef on the table. A table conversation ensued and Sansho, as the most curious, took the first word.
С... What do you think of the village boys?
The guys sat relaxed, but still had some tension from shyness.
Ш... Everything's fine Sansho san, we're getting the hang of it.
Н... Everything's great, dattebayo!
Naruto scratched the back of his head with embarrassment.
Н.. I'm sorry, that's the word that always pops out at me when...
С... Worried?
Н... Yes.
С... Come on, there's nothing to worry about. No one's gonna eat you here.
That's when Akemi woke up with her snarkiness.
А... Or should I give you that vitamin again? You'll have more fun.
Sansho looked reproachfully at her daughter.
С... Akemi, did you start injecting the kids with that stuff again? I had the whole hospital on its ear the last time you injected three kindergarten kids!
А... Mom, it's for prevention.
Akemi raised her index finger upwards and Sansho shook her head. Kavarama, sipping her glass, turned to her younger sister.
К... Akemi, give me some ampoules, because our genin sometimes get so on my nerves over D rank missions
А... Then bring them straight to me, I've got enough for all of them!
Akemi winked at his brother, who winked back. Itama chuckled at the notions of geninas running around the village with their asses on fire.
И... Oh-ho-ho, what kind of family I have, we have guests here, and you're talking about your own... By the way, Naruto, Shisui, in a month from now, on June fifth, we're having a festival to celebrate the founding of the village, come see the performances!
Ш... Okay, Itama herself, we'll come!
Н... We'll be there for sure, dattebayo, oh!
The whole family laughed at that pun. They sat through the evening talking about the events of their lives, and at that moment Naruto and Shisui felt what it was like to be in a family circle. Everyone here is joking and funny, supportive and can comfort if someone has grief.
The next day, Takeshi's team stood outside Kawarama, getting another mission.
К... I'm assigning you a mission to catch nukenin from the grass.
Naruto's ears perked up immediately, for it was from this grass village that those ninjas who had killed Maya had come. He had a bad feeling.
К... He is listed as rank B in the bingo book, the third passed on the coordinates of the possible location of this nukenin named Bikatsu Yakazuma. A month ago he was heading north through the land of earth, which means he's in the land of ice. And this territory is reserved for us.
Takeshi as well as Shisui didn't like this situation, after all, it was rare for someone to become a nukenin from a small country like Grass.
Т... Kawarama herself, what is the reason for such a nukenin fleeing from such a small country? There aren't many oinine hunters.
К... It's very simple... They are being hunted by his own village for a failed mission.
Т... What mission?
К... Kidnapping the ninetail jinchuriki!
The entire trio was shocked, for hunting such cruelty because of a failed mission.
К... The third informed me that Naruto had memorized his chakra and it would be easier for you to find him, and you Takeshi, are familiar with the terrain of the Land of Ice. Your mission is to catch the nukenin and hand him over to the local authorities to be put on trial in the land of grass.
Т... Roger that, permission to move out?
К... Granted, and good luck on your mission.
Takeshi's team began to move out, Takeshi knew about that animosity with the jinchuriki's kidnapping and what it had turned into.
Ш... Naru, are you sure you want to go on this mission?
Shisui was afraid Naruto would snap again, but Naruto himself needed to finish this thing.
Н... Brother Shisui, don't worry about me, I gave my word to Maya chan that I won't seek revenge, but this person needs to be punished justly, I just want to look into the eyes of this scoundrel, and then let Grass Village do whatever they want to him.
Shisui trusted Naruto's decisions, but if Naruto isn't seeking revenge, then that means... So the Third still hasn't forgiven himself for Maya's death, and this way he wants to let the man who killed her know that he won't be forgiven for Maya's death.
It took them a week to get across to the ice country on the bypasses and start looking for this nukenin. They searched day and night, asking everyone they knew about the stranger from the south. Just as suddenly they were tipped off by the head of the hotel that the man in the picture had been here recently and had traveled in a southeasterly direction. Jumping through the forest Takeshi's team spotted smoke and headed in that direction. When they arrived, the man they were looking for was sitting by the fire. He didn't even move as the three shinobi approached him from behind.
Б... You've come for me?
The team was surprised at the reaction, but didn't let it show.
Т... Yes!
The man took a deep breath, then put his hands out.
Б... I'm ready, you can knit me up, I'm tired of running.
Takeshi pulled out the handcuffs with the suppression seal. Putting on the handcuffs he realized that the man was broken and even thought that he would do without handcuffs, but according to protocol you can't do that... Shisui stood and wondered if Naruto was hiding behind him to keep the noukenin from showing, but decided to ask later. When they surrendered the nukenin to the authorities, they walked back to the land of snow. On the way out, Shisui decided to finally inquire.
Ш... Naru, did something go wrong?
Н... Bro, he's already broken, if I were to approach him, it would be a mockery. He's been running from everyone for over a year now. Life really is a good teacher after all, and this Bikatsu had learned his lesson.
Т... You're right, Naruto, revenge is not a goal to be pursued. It's like a disease that will eat away at your brain.
Shisui rubbed the blond's head and smiled at his thoughts.
Ш... I'm glad it's over already bro!
Naruto smirked and ran forward sharply, urging the race on, for they still had a party to get to.
The holiday came, everyone outside started dressing up their houses with different decorations. Naruto and Shisui had stocked up on their traditional costumes beforehand. Naruto's was orange and Shisui's was blue. They followed the crowd toward the domed stadium. Once inside they sat in the front rows next to Takeshi. There was a stage in the middle of the stadium, and on that stage, Itama Uzumaki came out and began his speech.
И... My dear residents. Today we are holding a celebration to honor the founding of our new home called Hidden in the Snow Village. I am glad that despite all the hardships of the world you have not abandoned your family and comrades and I am proud to declare the celebration ceremony open.
After this speech, acrobats began to come on stage and do their tricks and stunts. There were gymnasts, stunt performers, clowns, and pyromaniacs on stage. The kids especially liked the aerial gymnasts and promised themselves to repeat the tricks. After the performance, people climbed up the mountain and started firing fireworks. In Naruto's memory, this was the best holiday ever. Takeshi ended the day by taking them to the same restaurant where they bonded as a team.
For the last month of his stay, Naruto coaxed Takeshi into studying seals and learning how to seal weapons more effectively, and even bought two small scrolls. He took the two scrolls and combined them with his wristbands and made something like a weapon wrist scroll. He put some chakra into the scroll and then folded the seal with one hand and a shuriken appeared on his hand. This is very effective, as with this wristband you don't have to reach into your pouch to retrieve shurikens. Shisui appreciated the idea of the wristbands, and even asked for one to be made for him. Naruto made the same wristband but with the Uchiha mark and explained how it worked. Naruto noticed that Shisui had started to disappear to the hospital a lot, and when he saw Akemi, he would send Naruto out for a walk alone. Naruto didn't pay any attention to it, maybe he wanted to become an irienin too.
In two days, the boys had to return to Konoha, and today, while Naruto was at the dojo practicing sword strokes, Itama called Shisui to his house and they began a confidential conversation.
И... Well, Shisui kun, you'll be back in Konoha in two days, I hope you'll miss me?
Ш... Of course, Itama yourself, we've learned so much from you...
Itama made a sly smile and clapped Shisui on the shoulder.
И... And you yourself, Shisui kun, will you miss all of us, or just Akemi?
Shisui blushed thickly at those words and lowered his eyes.
Ш... What are you talking about, Itama herself, I would never...
И.. Come on, Shisui kun, I can see the way you look at each other...
Shisui didn't reply anything to that as he was simply at a loss for words.
И... But I'm warning you, if you hurt her, I won't stop her. She'll chop you into pieces, then reassemble you, then chop you again, she'll do this until she calms down.
Shisui's eyes went wide at such an introduction, and his hands trembled finely.
Ш... No, I would never hurt your daughter!
И... Okay, we're done with that, now let's get to the main thing.
Ш... Hmm?
И... I'm offering you another collaboration!
Ш... What, but I thought that was the end of it...
И... No, that's different. I want you to be the link between me and Hiruzen. You see, it's a long way from here to Konoha, and not many people agree to travel such paths. In Konoha, we only trade with the Sarutobi clan, it's all done by law, but our conspiracy...
Ш... Itama herself! You want me to be your messenger?
И... Hmmm you could say that! You won't lose your position in Konoha, as Hiruzen will count this as an assignment from the clan.
Shisui pondered Itama's proposal, weighing the pros and cons. On the one hand a huge distance, on the other hand he can see Akemi! Bottom line.
Ш... I'm in!
И... Well, I didn't doubt it! Now hold out your right hand.
Shisui obediently provided a hand and Itama began to enter the seal.
Ш... Seal of passage?
И... What did you think? You're not gonna carry around that paperwork again, are you?
Ш... Yeah, right...
Itama took out a smoking pipe, he often started smoking when his wife wasn't around, it was probably a habit they had picked up with old man three. Taking a deep drag.
И... Too bad it won't work out that way with Naruto, he's a good kid, but his life is not very good to say the least...
Shisui sighed in frustration.
И... By the way, Shisui, before I forget, take these two suppression seals. The Tetragram seal is very rare and few people have studied it, so I can't promise that when Naruto freaks out, the chakra won't come out. You told me Naruto's sharingan doesn't work on Naruto. So I can only give these disposable suppression seals when it gets out of control, then affixed to his forehead. If the seals run out, bring Naruto to me at once.
Shisui had often wondered what would happen if Naruto went berserk and started turning into a fox, but now the problem was almost solved.
Ш... Thank you, Itama Sama, for all you have done for us.
И... Uh-oh, don't be, you've done just as much for us... Takeshi is very pleased with your duo.
On that note they parted ways, Shisui was already preparing to leave.
It was departure day and before they left, they said goodbye to the Uzumaki family and Takeshi was waiting for them at the gate. Naruto and Shisui bowed to the sensei as a sign of respect.
Ш... Thank you for everything Takeshi sensei, we learned a lot from you!
Т... Needless to say, it is only a joy to teach such tenacious yet brilliant students.
Naruto frowned and lowered his gaze.
Н... So sad to leave here...
Т... Don't be shy, Naruto, you'll be back. By the way, I have a present for you!
Takeshi pulled two swords from behind his back one short and one long.
Т... The katana and tanto is the single weapon of choice for the samurai. Seeing your unity, I thought of giving you this particular pair of swords. A katana for Shisui's older brother so he can protect his younger brother Naruto. And here's a tanto for little brother Naruto so he can support big brother Shisui, take care of each other!
The boys had grown very attached to their sensei, and it was very hard for them to say goodbye like this. Still, it was necessary to leave. Pulling on their jackets, they stepped over the barrier. Jumping over the branches they have only bright memories of this village in their minds.
Ш... Naru, now I know why the third one sent us here!
Н... Hmm?
Ш... He wanted to show us what unity is.
Н... Yeah, that's exactly what I want Konoha to be.
The boys boarded a ship and sailed straight to the docks of the fire country. If you tally up the totals, the kids didn't learn any techniques on this trip. However, they have learned so much more.