Chapter 16
Labor Day.
The morning after the fight, Naruto, Shisui, and Itachi gathered near the clearing where the enemy team was to pick up the letter with the patrols data.
Sh... Naruto, can you handle it?
N... Trust me I've got it all set up and even added a few.
Sh... Hmmm, okay! But Itachi and I will be on the lookout, so if anything goes wrong, we'll back you up.
And... Good luck to you!
N- Thank you!
Itachi and Shisui huddled not far behind a bush where Naruto hadn't set traps yet. Naruto was left waiting while Shisui and Itachi began to discuss the whole farce.
And... Shisui, are you worried about him?
Sh- I always worry.
And... And how long have you two known each other?
Sh- Five years!
And... Hmmm, and all these five years you've been hiding it?
Sh... There were reasons, and at that you know what our laws are about jinchuriki.
And... I wouldn't know, but you said you left Konoha often, how come no one suspected Naruto wasn't in the village yet?
Sh- It's simple, no one cares where the jinchuriki goes, the citizens want Naruto to die in an alley somewhere, the rulers want him isolated from everyone.
И. Yeah, I'm surprised he even survived under those circumstances.
Sh- Proper parenting is the key to success in a child's life.
And... Hmm, Shisui?
Sh- What?
And... Were you really afraid I'd give you away?
Shisui sighed guiltily and began to explain.
Sh... Itachi, at that point, finding out that the jinchuriki was walking around the village was the hardest thing for Naruto to do. Everyone chased him, everyone tried to kill him, our doctors grudgingly pulled him from the other side of the world several times a year. At that point, I didn't have time to explain myself. After we came from the Fire Temple, I didn't even know who was an ally and who was an enemy.
Itachi was surprised at such details about the jinchuriki's life.
И. How has he not broken down in this hell?
Sh- Because, everything he's been through has been an ordeal for him. At the age of five, he had lost the person he held dearest, and at the same moment Naruto had killed the man who had attacked them.
Itachi had been through quite a bit too, and being forced by his father to go into the battlefield with him at the age of four to kill a man, but it was all a drop in the ocean compared to what Naruto had been through. Itachi was a pacifist by nature and didn't care for war, he had lost the meaning of life, and looking at Naruto he wants to ask what keeps him going. But now was not the time, as enemy ninjas were approaching from afar.
Sh... They've come now!
And... What are you talking about?
Sh... Keep your eyes open and don't miss a thing, I know Naruto, if he's prepared for something thoroughly, it's going to be a show. Yesterday's battle is an example of that.
Shisui winked at that moment, and Itachi began to face the upcoming show.
In a clearing near a tree, three ninjas with their faces covered began to look around.
1- Look for it, everywhere we are informed that our scout left somewhere here!
2- Man, could we have made it yesterday?
1. You can't, those Leaf fools must have scoured the place yesterday, but I know our scout and he doesn't hide anywhere.
3. What does she look like in general what we're looking for?
1- A kunai with two blades, and a note on the hilt.
At that moment, Naruto pretend fell down the hill and even rolled on the ground.
N... Hoo-hoo, made it.
All three of the unknown ninjas considered the child.
1... What are you doing here, kid?
Naruto panted to more or less glamorize the image.
N... Sorry, I was just running away from a boar and came back here again.
1- Back here? Have you been here before?
N... Well, yeah, I play here a lot!
1- Hey kid, did you find anything here?
Naruto pretentiously began to look around suspiciously at the three ninjas.
N- Who are you guys anyway and why are you wearing masks?
2- It's none of your business, answer the question!
N... My brother told me not to socialize with strangers, especially rude types like you.
The ninjas began to boil inside, but they noticed on the belt what they were looking for.
1- Hey kid, where did you get that Kunai?
N- Did you look for this?
Showing that kunai you're looking for.
2- Yes this one.
N... What's in it for me?
3- What a cheeky boy folks, let's just cut him down and that's it.
N- No way.
Naruto started to run away and the ninjas ran after him.
1... Damn boy, when I catch him, I'll personally strangle him.
Running after him they hit a pit of stakes.
3... Damn there was a trap here!
They got out of there, but they hit the net.
1- What the hell is going on here? We're three ninjas, and we can't catch some kid...
2- Well wait a minute, kid, I'll show you.
They caught up with Naruto behind a grove of trees.
1- Kid, you didn't have to run away, you could have just finished it off quickly...
Naruto began to pant playfully.
N... No way, I'm not just going to give you, Seduction Technique!
Naruto folded the seals and turned into a naked blonde with fumes. Shisui and Itachi, watching this, made a hand face. The ninjas on the other hand started laughing and took off their masks, underneath the mask everyone turned out to be a girl.
1... Ha ha ha that won't work on us!
Naruto turned back into himself and began rubbing his chin and interlocking his index finger.
N- Yeah? I thought it would work, since you guys are on the team, I figured you'd be... Non-traditional?
All three girls were red as cancer and looked at each other and became furiously beastly.
3... You lousy bastard, we'll get you.
The girls began to walk over clutching their swords in their hands and Naruto began to point upward with his index finger. The ninjas looked around and noticed that a large log was flying at them. The girls dodged and looked around and realized they had lost the blond.
1... Shit! Where could this little creep go?
3... Maybe that log bruised him?
2- Yes hardly, this creep could have survived looking for it!
They searched for him, falling into oncoming traps. But at one point, they spotted the blonde behind a tree and started putting together techniques by throwing shuriken.
123- Shuriken shadow cloning!
Naruto's clone hid behind a tree experiencing a shuriken, but when they approached that tree it dispelled.
1... Xooooo! What's wrong with that kid?
2- There he is!
The girl pointed at another clone.
1- Girls let's give it to him! I don't care about this assignment, I just can't take any more bullying.
2- Gladly
123- Joint technique, katon, karura.
The girls exhaled a large blob of fire at Naruto. As they approached the charred body, they were shocked that it was a mannequin similar to Naruto.
1... What kind of day is this?
2- Damn, I told you this was a bad idea.
1- It was an order, and orders are not negotiable.
They were so frustrated among themselves that they didn't notice the marsh beneath them covered with artificial grass. Their feet began to be sucked downward.
1- Swamp? Where the fuck did the swamp come from?
2- Girls I can't get my legs out!
3... Shit!
At that moment, Naruto walked up to them and began to squirm further in front of them.
N... Can I help you aunties?
1- Yes, die and that will be a big help to you.
N... Too bad I really wanted to help you.
2... So help me, why are you standing there?
N... Okay, I'll call for backup!
The girls were beginning to wonder at this turn of events, but were just as angry at being led around by the little guy's nose.
1- Wait, who are you going to call for help?
N... Uncles in blindfolds!
3- Wait, don't, it's better to die than to get to them.
Naruto stopped with a playfully surprised look.
N... Okay, well, then take this, I think you know what to do with it.
Naruto ran off and the girls grabbed the Kunai and unfolded the note and began to read it.
"Good afternoon ladies, you have now attended the trap ride named after Konoha, the audience was pleased and now they will be judging how many years you will go to jail for, I wish you luck!"
The girls were just furious after reading it and tore the sheet into little pieces. Naruto walked over to the bushes where Naruto and Shisui were sitting.
N... Shisui, Itachi is your way out.
All three of them approached the swamp, hiding the wild roaring inside.
N... Here, they wanted to kill me.
Sh- Yeah, what kind of naughty people are in our woods that the ladies decided to have a mud bath?
1- Fuck you freak!
N... Yeah, that's right, they swear too.
Sh... Ouch, that's not good! Itachi, shall we help the girls get to prison?
And... Of course we will!
Itachi and Shisui knocked them out with their sharingan and dragged them out of the swamp, then dragged them to the nearest patrol. And then they got back together and started laughing from tonight's performance.
Sh... Oh Naru, tell me, how did you know it was a swamp?
N... I didn't know... I just used the clones to loosen up the ground and with the element of water to infuse the rock.
Sh- Pretty original, but how are you going to fix it back up?
N... Maybe I'll put up a sign caution swamp?
Sh... No, you're clever, go fix it.
N- What? Can we keep it? What if it comes in handy?
Sh- Why do we need a swamp, what if someone gets in there?
N- What's the big deal? The first Hokage created a forest of death with a mokuton. And for some reason no one forced to clean up this forest, although it is in this forest that more people die than in this miserable swamp...
Sh... Now you're talking, the forest of death and the swamp...
Itachi had been watching their bickering for a few more minutes, and now he was comparing their brotherly relationship, and his own with Sasuke's. Shisui had plowed Naruto into getting the swamp fixed after all. Shisui left on his business with the Third, while Itachi stayed with Naruto and decided to help in this difficult endeavor.
And... Naruto, can I ask you a question?
N... Yes!
And... Shisui told me about your life and to be honest, then I admire your core, but still what keeps you going?
Naruto was surprised at such a question and thought about it for a bit.
N... It's a pretty complicated question, but if I think simply, I just want to protect those I care about.
And... And if you think a little harder?
N... And to put it in a more complicated way, I want to change the world.
Itachi was stunned at this scale of action.
And... And in what ways do you want to change the world?
N... I don't know the exact answer yet, but we need to start with ourselves first and then take on others.
And... Hmm, what do you want to be?
H- The way I am and not changing my principles, many people because of unfortunate turns of life drastically change their outlook and forget what they started for. It's kind of what they call a lost cause.
Itachi liked his answer, and now he had one last question left.
And... What's the meaning of life for you?
N... Hmm, the meaning of life? The meaning of life is life itself. Life is like a test and each person passes it according to their own principles and worldviews. If a person moves forward and does not give up because of the difficulty of the challenge, then they are living! Here's what I think about the meaning of life.
Itachi will be thinking about those words for a long time.
And... Naruto, thank you!
Naruto had already guessed why he was asking these questions, but he didn't ask about it, since he knew what it was like to have old wounds reopened.
N... You're welcome... By the way, is Sasuke back yet?
And... No, he's still imagining beating you...
Naruto sighed in frustration.
N... Something has to be done about it, dattebayo!
And... And why are you acting like this at the academy?
N... If people see what I can do now, they'll think I've fallen under the fox's influence, and Shisui and Grandpa Three will get hit. I can't take that risk.
And... I see.
N... That's it, we're done...
They caulked the swamp and went home.
The next day, Naruto decided to go to the academy on his own, as he needed to deal with one cranky idiot. When he got to class he saw Sasuke on the front row, so he decided to walk across the classroom and sit on the last desk. He was not allowed to sit down quietly as Sasuke stood in front of him folding his arms and burning his eyes.
S- Are you here?
N... Up?
With-what?
N... I'm sorry sorry sorry, I thought we were going to talk about the obvious things with you...
Sasuke didn't comment on the blond man's outburst, but simply began to deliver his speech in a monotone.
S- Do you think I'm weak? Is that why you don't want to fight me?
Naruto noticed his fanclub gathered around Sasuke and decided to put on a show.
N... No, no way, you're a member of the strongest clan after all, and I'm just a clanless kid...
S- I'm glad you know your place, but I still need to prove to everyone that I'm the best.
N... Okay, I agree, but after that, will you leave me alone?
S- Yes!
Sasuke went back to his desk and Naruto just decided to take a nap.
After three lessons, there was a sparring session at the range where everyone enthusiastically shouted Sasuke kun. The guys started to fight, Naruto decided to just defend himself and then after three minutes he feigned breath and raised his hands in defeat. Everyone was thrilled that their favorite had won, and as they did they began to humiliate themselves for losing with caustic words towards Naruto. Naruto himself was wondering if he had turned off the water in the faucet when he left for the academy. Iruka told them to fold the seal of truce, but Sasuke refused.
S- I won't do it for a weakling like him!
N- I don't care as long as you get off my back!
After that Naruto had like a mountain off his shoulders, the following months he went to the academy the same way, or sent a clone to the academy there, and went to train with Shisui himself when he was free. It was now three of them going on missions, Shisui had talked Itachi into the fact that it was more fun together. Clanless Sakura changed from a timid girl to an arrogant nerd after she fought with her friend Ino over Sasuke.
The last month of the first school year was approaching. Naruto was never able to find a language with anyone, as he was considered, useless and worthless, and some just ignored. Naruto wouldn't hang out with anyone who cared about looks anyway. Though there were problems with his peers, there were still those who willingly played with Naruto, but unfortunately there were only two of them. When sparring took place, not only Naruto was ridiculed, but also Chouji for being overweight. Naruto didn't like the fact that Chouji was ridiculed just for his looks and decided to give them a little show, but first he needed to cheer up the offended one. Choji sat in the classroom with a droopy face, while Shikamaru sat next to him and tried to cheer him up. There was no one in the classroom as everyone had already left. Naruto walked into the classroom and approached the guys, Naruto didn't fight with them, and they didn't feel much for the blond.
Sh... Come on Chouji, they didn't know what they were saying.
Ch- I know, but it still doesn't feel good.
N- Hey, guys.
They hailed in unison with Naruto.
N... Chouji, stop crying, let's go to Ichiraku, we'll talk there I have some ideas.
The boys looked interestedly at the arrival.
C- But we don't have any money!
N- It's okay, it's my treat.
There was nothing to do, so we decided not to say no.
Sh... Okay, let's go, Choji get up.
Ch- Uh-huh.
They came to Ichiraku and sat at the counters.
T- Oh, Naruto, you're not alone today? Go ahead, I've just got the broth boiling.
N- Hey old man, I'll have two double portions of pork ramen, guys order up, dattebayo.
Sh... I'll have the usual pork ramen.
Ch... I'm the same as Naruto.
When the order came everyone started eating, yes sniffling, then when they were full Naruto started paying for the food.
N... So, Choji, are you feeling better after eating?
Choji became cheerful in front of his eyes.
Ch... Yeah, thank you Naruto!
N... All guys, let's go to the clearing where we often play, I'm only home segi take I quickly, datiebayo.
Shikamaru was surprised at Naruto's interest.
Sh- Are you interested in this game?
N... Shikamaru, and I thought you could see right through people...
Shikamaru pouted his lips.
Sh... Problematic, but you fool yourself all the time, so I didn't really look into it.
N... Well, wait in the clearing and I'll be right there.
They went on opposite sides, and ten minutes after Chouji and Shikamaru came in, Naruto himself came up.
N... Well, shall we play a game?
Ch... I pass Naruto, I don't like playing games like that.
Sh- Okay, let's set it up.
Naruto and Shikamaru had already started to play, Shikamaru as the fight progressed no longer understood how to proceed, all of his lunges Naruto responded with absurd moves.
N... You've got checkmate!
W- Wow! Shikamaru, did you lose?
Shikamaru was stunned that he had been beaten at his favorite game.
Sh... That's terrible Naruto, who walks like that anyway?
N- What's the big deal?
Sh... You went king a lot in this game in general, and you hardly used pawns at all!
N... Life itself is a crazy thing.
Sometimes our Hokage has to get up out of his chair and go into battle.
Sh... But the point of this game is to protect the king!
N- Shikamaru, everyone chooses what they want to protect, and what role to choose in this chess game.
Shikamaru sighed in hopelessness and lost his chin.
Sh... Naruto, you said you had some idea?
N... Oh yeah, that's right! Choji, come here.
W- Yeah?
N... Today, when our classmates bullied you, did you cry because of them or because of yourself?
Choji began to wonder about that.
C... I don't know, I didn't feel bad that they were bullying me like that, but it's not my fault I was born into the Akimichi clan!
N- Hmmm, you know they're wrong for all the reasons. Everyone chooses who they want to be in this life. Look at the board.
Ч. So?
N- No matter how good a person is, they will always have flaws. The Nara clan, for example, are smart strategists and analysts, but lazy. Clan Inuzuka, they have a strong connection with their dogs because of what they have developed reflexes, minus they strongly resemble their animals and stink as well, and often fall into unreasonable aggression - a prime example is our Kiba, although I would give him the nickname barks, but does not bite. Yamanaka clan - digging around in their brains is both a minus and a plus, no one would want some mentalist snooping around in their head. Akimichi clan, strong, resilient, but they need to eat a lot, which affects their weight. Like I said they all have their downsides!
The guys were shocked at the awareness in both their clan and others.
Ш. Tell me, Naruto, how do you know about all this?
N... Just analyzing!
Shikamaru took a deep breath, still Naruto wouldn't answer anything.
Sh- But where is this all going?
N... Hmmm, I want our classmates to see their minuses in each other too if they get into a situation that is embarrassing to them. I want to see them prove themselves and have some fun.
Sh... Us?
N... Why, don't you want to help me?
W- What do you want to do?
N- Just teach them a lesson with shenanigans.
Sh... If we get caught, we're in trouble!
N... We won't get caught, we'll just follow the plan we're about to make.
W... Naruto, wouldn't that be cruel of us?
Naruto looked at Choji with an annoyed look.
N... Choji, if we don't do this, life will punish them worse. So let them better understand the gist of some things now. Think of it as us doing them a gratuitous favor. Besides, vacation starts the day after tomorrow, so no one will be looking for suspects.
Ch- Okay!
N... Shikamaru?
Sh- I don't mind, it's boring in class anyway.
N- Okay.
Naruto pulled out a notepad and began to describe the big picture.
N... So, our mission is to show everyone their bad qualities, I don't interact much with my classmates so I can't fully describe them. So put it out there, let's start with Kiba.
Sh... Hmmm, well what can I say, bully, braggart, lazy, well overprotective of his dog.
N... Okay, so we need him to pee his pants in class and scratch himself like a dog. To do this, you need to make a bag of water under his desk and you need to discreetly shower him with itching powder. The next Sasuke, I know about him, is an arrogant turkey who cherishes his clan and is turned on his greatness. We should bring him down from the sky at shuriken throwing practice. Which means you have to change the shurikens to ones that have a poor balance of gravity and when you throw them, they will fly on an uneven trajectory.
Listening to all this knowledge, Shikamaru and Choji began to listen with their mouths open.
Sh... Naruto, I wish you'd use your brain in class.
N... What's in it for me? It's not like I can throw shurikens at enemies from the academy.
Sh- Okay.
N... Shikamaru, I'll write the plan and you tweak them, okay?
Sh- Okay.
They continued to discuss the plan and then went to the gimmick store and stocked up on the resources they needed. The owner of the gimmick store, was not among those who thought Naruto was a demon, and on that they found common ground, and so he bought things there without the henge. After purchasing various gizmos they went to the academy at night and started setting traps around the desks. To avert suspicion, they didn't set traps on those who don't support bullying at all, such as Hinata, Shino and a few guys.
The next day, all hell was breaking loose at the academy. Kiba was scratching like hell with his pants wet. Sasuke not only missed the target, but also hit his sensei, and got a scolding from his parents for it. Sakura was reading her report to the whole class, and there were excerpts from the book "Come Come Heaven" that Naruto had discreetly slipped in when Sakura was at recess. Ino clung to her chair, paint dripping from the ceiling onto her hair. The rest of the kids got a gift on their desk too, but some really weren't touched. After this incident, the parents were called in, an investigation was conducted, but it was pointless. Naruto, Choji, and Shikamaru sat on the last desk and giggled quietly.
The next day, Naruto and Shisui were waiting for Itachi to meet the caravan there and escort them to the land of lightning.
Sh... Naru, how are things going at the academy?
N... Great, I even made two friends.
Sh... That's great, I hope they know what they need to know?
N... Yes!
Shisui sighed softly and returned the cheerful mood.
Sh- What are their names?
N- Shikamaru Nara and Choji Akimichi.
Sh- Oh-oh, two of the great three?
N... Yeah, only the third of those three doesn't boom-boom at all.
Sh... It's okay, it'll still happen...
Itachi came up to them with a stern face and immediately pulled Naruto's ear, showing him the shurikens Sasuke was throwing.
And... Naruto explain to me why I spent all night last night listening to Sasuke complain about the combat gear you slipped him. Don't try to get away with it, I know those shurikens and they're from your forge.
Naruto began to twitch his legs in pain.
N... Ai-yi-you're hurting me, let go!
Itachi let go of Naruto's ear and he began to explain the reasons for this tragedy.
N... Anyway, I couldn't help it when he pushed me at recess and I wanted to teach him a lesson, but next time he'll know what he's throwing.
And... Did the others push you at recess, too?
N- What are you talking about?
And... Don't play dumb Naruto, I know your MO and yesterday's traps at the academy were your doing!
That's when Shisui pulled on Naruto's other ear.
Sh... Naru, confess, why did you do it?
N- Ay-yi-yi-yi-yi, bro, you're gonna rip my ear off.
Sh- I'll rip it off if you don't tell me the truth!
N... Okay, okay, okay, it's just that those kids at the academy were picking on Choji for being overweight, so we figured out a way to teach them a lesson...
Shisui pulled harder on his ear.
Sh... We? You got someone else involved in this?
N... Well I kept the team spirit going, and solving a problem together is the best method. Yeah, and you guys are the only ones who know about this prank. They won't tell, since they were my accomplices, and I'll buy you a box of dango so you can forget about it. And there won't be any more pranks like that, I promise.
The elders licked their lips at the word dango.
Sh... Okay, I'll take your word for it!
Itachi gave a sly look, then exclaimed.
And... You know, I spent all night last night calming Sasuke down, so one box won't be enough.
Naruto pulled a pained face.
N... Okay, two is two! Why don't we go?
They trotted on their way towards Tanzac. There they sat in a coffee shop where Naruto bought them the dango they had been promised.
Then a caravan approached them, where the ringleader was an elderly man named Takabushi.
T... Uh-oh, Konoha shinobi? You're finally here.
Sh- Good afternoon, Takabushi san, my name is Shisui, but my companions' names are Itachi and Naruto!
T- Nice to meet you!
Itachi and Naruto bowed nobly, but then a girl about 15 years old with tan skin and snowflake white hair came out of the hotel.
I... Hello everyone, I am Yamui and I am the chunin of the hidden cloud village, the daughter of the advisor of the daima of the lightning country, and also the princess of the Yotsuki clan. I don't even know why you were called, but whatever, the main thing is that you don't get tangled up in my legs...
The boys reacted coldly to this, but gave their names for propriety's sake. Yamui, on the other hand, looked at Naruto and laughed.
I... You, little man, are you lost by any chance?
N... I'd rather be lost.
I... Ha ha ha, how funny, are you the apparent lackey of these two leaf shinobi?
Naruto had been holding back as best he could, but now he needed to speak up.
N... Oh, you...
At that moment, Shisui gagged and led him away.
Sh... Naru, I know it's not pleasant, but please hold out!
N... Shisui, she's insulting you and Itachi too, how can you stand it?
Sh... Naru, if you hold out, I'll be buying you ramen for a week upon my return!
Naruto broke out into a grin at such a freebie.
Well, as long as she stays away from me!
Sh... Well done, now come on, I need to talk to someone I respect.
Naruto stayed with Itachi at the back of the convoy, but Shisui went to the customer to ask about such a whispery situation.
Sh... Takabushi san, how come you already have a hired Kunoichi, that's not how things are usually done!
The customer took a deep breath at the hopelessness of the situation.
T- Shisui kun, you see, we didn't hire her.
Shisui was surprised at this turn of events.
Sh... How so not hired?
T... We started our convoy from cloud country and the Yotsuki clan offered, or you could simply say, put it to us that Yamui would guard us. They said she could protect us all, but in reality we lost the wagon, and this girl didn't even raise an eyebrow as it was somehow commonplace for her. In my opinion, Yamui is just a spoiled and capricious girl, and we need protection from her from time to time, as she took out all the brain with her sunscreen. We can't give up on her, as it would be a disservice to me if the Yotsuki clan grinds their teeth against me. I'm truly sorry about this situation, but if you can leave it as it is and walk me across the street, I'll pay you double!
Shisui was doing a facepalm and rubbing his chin, he decided to support the customer.
Sh- Okay Takabushi san, we'll do our best.
They trotted off and along the way Shisui explained the situation to his co-commanders, though Naruto had to be calmed down afterward.
Yamui herself didn't take her eyes off of the Uchiha, but the blond man she was trying to humiliate with her position in society. They had already approached the border of the Lightning Land, but it was near the border that a band of 30-man brigands were waiting for them. Shisui and Itachi went to deal with the large gathering of enemies, but Naruto and Yamui were left to guard the rear. Yamui didn't like being stupidly left with the baby, so she went into battle with those who were attacking from behind and didn't even bother to notice those who were already brazenly trying to steal things from the wagon. Thankfully, due to Naruto's responsibility, the bandits couldn't even touch the wagon. But Naruto's problems didn't end there, as he noticed that Yamui couldn't even handle three brigands, despite having earth techniques in her arsenal. But in hand-to-hand and sword fighting, she was simply powerless. It cost Naruto a lot not to kill her for disobeying orders and nearly getting the wagon hurt because of her willfulness. Naruto simply created clones and used them to impale the girl's attackers with his sword. He wanted to keep them alive, of course, but at the sight of Yamui all he wanted to do was kill. When it was over, Naruto simply walked over to the girl to check on her condition.
I... Kid, what are you doing here? I did it on my own.
N- Oh, come on, the cuts on your shoulders say otherwise.
Yamui was furious that some boy had handled her enemies so easily.
I... These cuts are nothing to me...
N- Well, whatever.
When it was over, Shisui and Itachi walked up to Naruto and looked at Yamui and just did a facepalm. The leaf shinobi decided to just go on with the wagon along the road thinking about where they had sinned that such a pain in the ass in the form of a capricious princess had fallen on their heads. Yamui decided to teach the blond man a lesson by continuing to humiliate him further. Shisui and Itachi were trying not to kill the girl themselves. But this time Yamui went too far, shoving Naruto's own clothes with drops of blood on them.
I... On the servant, do the laundry!
The whole trio were shocked at such insolence. Naruto held her clothes in his hand and turned to Shisui.
N...Brother Shisui, looks like you won't have to feed me ramen, I want to put her in her place!
Shisui at this didn't even criticize the blond man's actions, but simply gave a warning.
Sh... It's forbidden to kill her, and the rest is up to you.
Naruto grinned and with a determined look he strode over to Yamui, throwing her own clothes at her.
N... Listen here, I'm not your servant, if you have hygiene or clothes washing problems, I'll ask you to deal with them without my involvement. This is not your clan, where they walk in lockstep at the sight of you, we are ninjas of another country and we have a different employer, and we are not obliged to listen to your whims, questions?
Yamui didn't answer anything to that and even tried not to approach the trio after such verbiage from the blond man. But her victim was Takabushi's employer, inspired by Naruto's actions, and he didn't send either away for much longer. Yamui wilted and turned back to the trio with a resentful look, and began to whine about the unfairness of the universe. Shisui and Itachi tried to ignore it by plugging their ears, but it didn't help them.
And... Shisui, why don't we just dump her somewhere, and when we get to Lightning Land, say she couldn't fight off the bandits.
Sh... No Itachi, if it was that easy, I would have put her in genjutsu a long time ago. From our side, it'll be like a sign of war so we'll have to endure it.
N... Brother Shisui, let's ask her what Takabushi san told her?
Shisui and Itachi glanced at each other at their younger comrade's unorthodox decision, but decided not to refuse the offer after all.
Sh...Yamui, what did Takabushi san tell you?
Yamui whimpered like crazy, but decided to answer.
I... That old geezer said I'm a worthless ninja.
Shisui and Itachi did the facepalm thing again, but Naruto's enthusiasm caught fire.
N... How dare he say that to you, let's go Yamui deal with him.
Naruto spoke in complete seriousness, Yamui was a little relieved that someone was taking her side, but Shisui and Itachi stood with their mouths open and turned to each other.
Sh... Genjutsu?
And... Most likely.
Both of them shouted "Kai" but nothing was happening.
Sh... Damn looks like it's not genjutsu, let's go see what's up.
The brunettes followed Naruto and Yamui to the customer and stood behind him to follow the events. Naruto, Yamui, and Takabushi stood in a circle.
N... Takabushi san, how dare you?
T... What dare?
At this point everyone held their breath to catch all of the blond man's words, Yamui herself standing with rapt attention.
N... Takabushi san, how dare you tell her it's a ninja girl?
The whole thing almost fell apart at that statement.
T... Naruto kun, but she keeps coming at me with her questions.
N- So what? We put up with her, too, and it's okay, we live! I'm going to ask you to just ignore her.
T... Uh, okay Naruto kun I'll try.
Yamui stood with her mouth hanging open, but Naruto turned to her.
N... And you listen here, like I said, this isn't your clan and no one is going to wipe your snot for you. You took this job as a chaperone, so be kind to fulfill it!
Yamui penetrated with his head down and the trio returned to the back of the wagon. Itachi and Shisui felt a twofold feeling after this situation, on one hand pride in the blond man, and on the other hand just wild laughter at Naruto's snapping at Yamui.
The caravan reached the lightning country without adventure, Yamui not speaking to anyone for a long time after such a blowout. Upon arriving at the Yotsuki clan the caravan stopped for a rest, and the clan themselves took in the guests. The leaf shinobi tried to talk me out of it, but the head of the Yotsuki clan insisted and so they sat at a table among the crowd and sipped tea. The clan itself was located far away from the hidden cloud village, and this clan was influential more politically than martially. Geno Yotsuki proved to be more reserved and wise than her daughter Yamui.
G- Dear guests how was your journey?
Sh- Okay, there were almost no problems.
G... Oh, that's nice to hear, I hope my daughter wasn't, uh, so demanding of her person? Cause I spoiled her a lot when she was a kid.
The guys looked amongst themselves, not wanting to show themselves in the worst light.
And... No Geno san, your daughter didn't cause much trouble!
G- I'm glad to hear you say that, but I apologize to you nonetheless!
When she wondered how such a wise and reserved man could have had such a daughter.
They ate and drank and had fun, and then went out into the yard to get some air, when suddenly a boy with short white hair and tanned skin came up to Naruto, he was dressed in white pants and the same color vest, and on his back hung two swords.
...Hey you, I see you have a sword on your back, let's see whose skill is better!
The trio looked at this boy and tried to keep from facepalming.
N- Look, why does everyone have this obsession with challenging me to a fight? You should introduce yourself first! My name is Naruto, and the oldest of us is Shisui, and the long-haired one is Itachi! See how easy it is?
The stranger frowned at such a tirade, and then boiled over a little.
S- How can you not know me fool? My name is Si, nine years old, I am the nephew of the fourth raikage, I will be one of AB's future combinations!
The team was surprised to find a relative of Kage in this clan, and he was even honored with the name Si. Shisui decided to defuse the situation since they don't need the trouble.
Sh... Sorry, Shi kun, but we're just guests, so we don't want to upset the clan head by having sword fights here.
S- Ooh, that's no problem, I'll make arrangements with Geno-san.
The three were left standing in a pillar.
N... Itachi, did that weirdo bite Sasuke by any chance? It's like deja vu all over again.
Itachi huffed at such a statement.
And... I hope not.
The entire trio sighed annoyed.
N... Brother Shisui, why don't we get out of here?
Sh- No, Naru, that would be disrespectful of us. Hoping for Geno to turn down that submission.
N... Duttebayo, why I...
They waited another minute or three as people started coming out of the house and gathering on the grounds. The clan head himself approached the team with C.
G... Naruto-kun, Shi-kun told me he wants to have a fight with you?
N... Yes, Geno san you are against it, aren't you?
The clan head blurted out a smile.
G... No, Naruto kun, on the contrary. Yamui has told me so much about you, I would love to see your swordsmanship myself!
The whole team couldn't help but make a facepalm.
N... But, Geno san, please, it doesn't make sense...
G... Naruto-kun, if you win, you get a percentage of the bets.
The team was surprised at this turnaround.
Sh... Geno san, not only did you let them sword fight, but you put up stakes?
G... Why, money's no object, you can bet too...
Shisui began to contemplate this possibility rubbing his temple.
Sh... Hmmm, how many people bet on Naruto?
G... About three, all rooting for Ci since he is the best swordsman among the academy students.
Sh... Hmmm, you know, and I agree, take a bet from me on Naruto.
N- What?
And... I'm betting on Naruto, too.
N... Itachi, you're in there too?
The team stepped aside.
Sh... Naru, if you're playing, the ramen is still on, and you'll get a percentage of the winnings too.
And... And I'll talk to Sasuke to keep him away from you, because he suspects you of those shurikens you slipped him.
Naruto opened and closed his mouth in shock.
Well, I'm gonna beat the crap out of that weirdo!
The fight began, the opponents drawing their swords and rushing at each other. Naruto studied his opponent with a light parry with his tanto against his opponent's two swords. Finding his rhythm he moved into a smooth attack and with a powerful strike of the blunt side of his sword against his opponent's palm he knocked the sword from his hands. The enemy was not upset by this situation and with one sword tried to fight off the whipping swings of Naruto's sword. Naruto, seeing that his opponent could not fight back, simply grabbed the hand in which his opponent was holding his sword and thrust his tanto at his opponent's throat. Though many were cheering for their compatriot, they were still encouraged by such a beautiful fight. The opponent raised his hands in defeat and Naruto let his opponent go. Naruto was glad for such a fight though he didn't welcome it at first. Naruto held out his hand in a gesture of friendship, but his opponent slammed his hand down.
S- No, I don't admit defeat, you and I will meet again someday and repeat our fight!
N... Come on, he lost and he lost, what's the big deal?
S- I had never lost to any of my peers before, and that's why I was picked to be on the AB tandem.
N... Everybody loses... Life doesn't end there.
S- Not me! Prepare for our next battle, I will be stronger and I will defeat you.
N... Uh, okay, when?
S- Someday.
Si walked away, and Naruto and his team went to sort out their bets. With a purse full of money, they walked back to the Leaf. One question still plagued him along the way.
N... Shisui's brother.
Sh... Hmm?
N... What did that boy I fought with mean? He said he was named C. Does that mean he has another name as well?
Ш... If that's the case, it no longer matters what name he had before he was called C. The fourth Raikage is named Ei and his named brother is named Bi, the one they named Si means that he will replace either of them in the future and take the name of the one he replaced. Think of it as a kind of tradition.
Н.. Um, okay, so who's B.?
Ш.. That I don't know...
Н.. Okay, we've got enough cockroaches in our heads, let's just leave them out of it.
Ш... Good point!
This mission lasted almost a month because of the long distance they had to travel with a slow caravan. Hiruzen decided to send Naruto on such long-term missions during his vacation period. After this mission, they went to other countries as well.
After the vacation missions, Naruto returned to the weekdays of the academy and to his work at the forge. Yoshida had already trained Naruto to forge other weapons as well, and now he could be alone at the forge. In his second year at the academy, he had already been taught how to sense chakra and train control. Naruto had already started missing some classes with his friends at the academy. Of course, they'd get a scolding from Iruka's teacher afterward, but what wouldn't you do to avoid sitting in a stuffy classroom where people would humiliate you or just glare at you. Sasuke was no longer a problem, as the brunet himself had already lost interest in Naruto himself in terms of sparring or other training disciplines. With the rest of the class it was the same as before, many kids treated Naruto with contempt and arrogance as he had the lowest grades in the class. Training-wise, Hiruzen helped Naruto with chakra control with a suppression seal, after which Naruto learned to walk on water again as the reserve was constantly replenished and it was harder to control the chakra each time.