Chapter 20
Under my nose, but so far away.
Naruto is now 11 and has already completed many missions in the land of fire under the mask of a fox and in the form of an anbu. Hiruzen was worried that Naruto would be exposed and gave Naruto's equipment to the hidden snow so that they could put a seal of chakra concealment on it and also could not recognize Naruto's face behind the fox mask with a biakugan. Naruto had already learned how to seal not only weapons, but also various things such as food, clothes, or packages. Working with the elements of water and wind has already risen to a fairly acceptable level and could already with the help of clones to combine them in combat to enhance the impact power of the wave. Naruto was still able to get Yoshida to make another tanto, in battle Naruto could either separate or join these swords to use them as one-handed or paired swords. Of course, he had to re-learn the dual sword style, but with the help of the clones, he succeeded. Naruto, after all, was already able to freely infuse his swords with wind chakra. This year, the chunin exam was postponed until next year because all the jonin were on regular missions and were also keeping the southern part of the fire country from being raided by the fog.
In Namikaze's family, too, a drastic change appeared. Miroku recently had her genin exam in April and passed with the highest scores paired with Hyuga Neji. Kushina, after her daughter graduated, decided to become a jonin mentor to the three scarlet-haired girls, Miroku Namikaze, Inami, and Karin, who was found in the village in the hidden grass five years ago, and this team was named as team number four or simply Kushina's team. Kushina wanted to teach them the skill of Fuinjutsu so they could pass it on to the next generation. Because Naruto had the last name Uzumaki, Kushina couldn't give that last name to Inami and Karin, so they wouldn't be questioned. But she still dreamed of reviving the clan in Konoha. Kushina was dressed in a blue t-shirt, dark pants, a standard jonin vest, blue sandals, a chitai on her forehead, and her hair tied back in a ponytail to keep it out of the way. Though Kushina's character hadn't changed, she hid her skeletons with Minato very well and didn't even remember them. Miroku was very similar to her mother in appearance, but she inherited her sharp features from Minato, tied her red hair in two ponytails at the back of her head, and dressed in a blue kimono, black knee-length shorts and dark sandals. Miroku was very arrogant, stubborn, and even spoiled, and in combination with Uzumaki's genes it was a dangerous mixture, she was very proud of the fact that her parents were very influential people in Konoha, and because of her spoiled character she often spent things on trinkets. But she had a little secret, even though she had her differences with Neji, she secretly sympathized with him. Miroku was already ahead of her peers in terms of fighting skills, she was good at ninjutsu and taijutsu academy techniques, and her mother had taught her paralysis techniques, but what she was most proud of was her unsexy punching power. Inami's appearance for eight years has not changed much, she still had straight hair with a bang on her forehead, but she was dressed in a black dress with rhinestones and black sandals, and she wore a chitai like a headband. Inami was much calmer in character than Miroku and didn't look down on the others, but still the character of the clan sometimes slipped in. The academy techniques for Inami were given just as well, but the skill in taijutsu was weaker than Miroku. Karin had red disheveled hair that reached to her knees, a round blonde face, and she dressed in a mesh t-shirt, a green light jacket, blue pants with sandals, and a chitai she wore on her forehead. Karin's character was a bit fearful, due to the wild conditions in the grass village, but if she was pissed off, she was not inferior to her teammates in terms of rabies. Combat-wise, Karin acted in a support role, before graduating from the academy, Kushina trained her in medical techniques. Everyone in Konoha was afraid to go near Kushina's team, as the fame of their terrifying character spread throughout the village, even Minato himself tried not to make them angry. Since this team was all from the Uzumaki clan, they had a colossal supply of chakra and life force. The girls had become friends at the academy on Kushina's advice, but sometimes they would get into fights and Kushina would have to put them in their place.
Also graduating this year was team number three, which consisted of Hyuga Neji, Rock Lee, and Tenten Takahashi, and the commander of this team was Maito Gai. The commander of squad number three, Maito Gai was of athletic build, the black hair on his head was pot-shaped, and the most striking thing about him was his bushy eyebrows. Maito Gai dressed in green tights with orange kneepads with black sandals underneath and the standard jonin leaf uniform and hitai worn on his belt. By nature, Maito was overly energetic and gave himself completely to honing his taijutsu skills. Gai had a habit of talking about the power of youth and calling his eternal friend and rival Kakashi to compete, though he often refused or simply went the other way to avoid meeting his competition tormentor. The first member of the team, Hyuga Neji, had long brown hair that reached his shoulder blades, white pupils, light skin, and he was dressed in a white suit, black shorts with blue sandals and a chitai on his forehead. Neji is a genius of the Hyuga clan and since childhood has shown great skill in the taijutsu of the soft fist style, although he was from the younger branch even called the strongest genin in terms of taijutsu, but still the techniques of ninjutsu academy were at a high level. Neji lost his father at an early age because of the conflict with the stone village, and became bitter at the older branch. He felt that the older branch was simply paying off the head to keep him alive when the stone demanded that he give up Hiyashi's body. Neji was arrogant and hated weakness and in particular his cousin Hinata for her soft nature. Neji had some disagreements with Miroku over the palm of superiority and in sparring often butted heads with each other. The second member of Team Rock Lee in appearance and clothing was an exact copy of Maito Gai but his eyes were wider. Lee had a small amount of chakra, which hindered his mastery of ninjutsu and genjutsu, so he followed in Gai's footsteps to become the greatest master of taijutsu and prove to everyone that shinobi don't need to possess the techniques to screw the enemy. Neji of course put on the spot and even humiliated Lee for his inability in ninjutsu. Lee labeled Neji as his eternal rival and promised to defeat him. In character, he was also not unlike Guy and even sometimes overreacted. But the thing that was most notable was his hard work.
The third member of the team, Tenten, had black hair tied back in two bunches, brown eyes, and was dressed in a pink vest, black pants, and blue sandals. Tenten's parents owned a gun store, so she had a passion for edged weapons and was highly skilled at throwing shurikens and other throwing implements. She was also very experienced in sealing guns and went on missions with many scrolls. Since sealing was a discipline of Fuinjutsu, she was also helped by Kushina to learn the discipline more easily. Tenten's temperament was calm, but she was often angry with the green beasts of Konoha because of their excessive temper or simply couldn't stand their cries of youthful strength.
Today was the end of summer, the weather in Konoha was sunny. Kushina's team had already completed several rank D assignments. And so on another weeding assignment, Miroku ran out of patience and approached her commander.
Miroku... Mom, this is too much, are we ninjas or what? Why do we have to do the work of the peasants?
Kushina who was sitting in the shade at this time looked at her daughter and shook her head.
Kushina... Honey, it's too early for you to be given higher ranking assignments!
Miroku pouted her lips and began to resent it.
Miroku... Mom, we haven't gotten out of a D-rank assignment in months, maybe you can talk dad into giving us a harder one.
Miroku looked at her mother with sweet and begging eyes that Minato and Kushina often couldn't resist. Kushina sighed in annoyance, for she was very worried about her team and couldn't let them out of the village without proper training. But it wasn't her daughter's first request and so she decided to ask the others.
К... Okay, if your friends agree.
Miroku almost jumped for joy.
Kushina... Karin, Inami, please come here.
The two girls walked over to them and stood in line with Miroku.
Inami. Da Kushina Sersei?
Kushina straightened up and stood in front of them.
Kushina... Girls, Miroku stated that you are ready for more challenging assignments, is that true?
The co-commandresses glanced over to Miroku, and Miroku herself bulged her eyes pleadingly. Inami started cautiously and without any sudden movements.
Inami... Yeah, I think we're ready for more challenging assignments.
Kushina... And you, Karin?
Karin... Uh, if the others are in agreement, why not give it a try?
Kushina got nervous and hoped to her husband that he could delicately refuse them.
Kushina... Okay girls, this is up to the Hokage, so let's hear what he has to say about it.
The entire number 4 team went to the residence after the sisi. Miroku was often at her father's work and was not ceremonious with her greetings, even though Kushina had hammered the rules of etiquette into her head. The whole team stood in front of Minato's desk and Kushina was the first to start.
Kushina.. So, the team accomplished the mission of weeding the vegetable gardens!
Minato looked around the team and smiled complacently at them.
Minato... Well done, girls, you can rest now.
Miroku poked her mom in the side and Kushina remembered her daughter's request and began to smirk nervously
Kushina... Um dear, my team says they are ready for more serious missions, what do you think about that?
Kushina started gesturing for Minato to deny their request towards the end of the sentence. And Minato, seeing his wife's plan, began to carefully craft the conversation so that they wouldn't be offended.
Minato... Girls, realize that high ranking tasks are given to ninjas above chunin rank.
Miroku started to protest and stomped her foot on the floor.
Miroku... Dad, I'll soon be called a sucker and unworthy of the Hokage's daughter.
Minato had long since gotten used to his daughter's whims and even sometimes thought it was cute when she pouted and turned away from him.
Minato... Daughter, understand, Kushina and I are very worried about your team, even though you are the best in the academy. But still, the three of you have too little experience.
Miroku put her hands together and trained her eyes pleading.
Miroku... Daddy please please please please please please!
Minato always lost when his daughter asked for something with such a cute face. Kushina was nervous that her husband had already succumbed to his daughter's charms, but then two energetic green leaf beasts came through the open door, followed by Tenten and Neji. Gaius built his team standing behind them.
Guy... Yo, hokage herself, team number three has completed their task of walking Inuzuka's dogs.
Kushina and Minato were glad to be able to change the subject and put their daughter's request on hold. Minato smilingly began to greet team number three.
Minato... Oh, Guy, good to see you and your team. How'd the mission go?
Gaius put his thumb up.
Guy... Excellent, all done to a high standard in a youthful style.
This is when Miroku boiled up and started whining to his father.
Miroku... Hokage-sama, what's up with the high ranking mission?
Minato began rubbing his fingers nervously across the table and Kushina began clenching her fists. That's when Lee and Neji popped up, looking interested.
Lee... High ranking? Will you give me one too?
Neji... Hokage herself, we'd like a harder mission too.
The spouses went into a dribble that now all would not come off, only Guy stood looking thoughtful and with his fingers at his chin.
Guy... By the way yes, I think they could use the practice.
Minato almost fell through the ground and the kids started yelling for the mission. Minato raised his hand to silence everyone and began to pass judgment with a crushed look.
Minato... All right, I'll give you a C rank mission! But since you are genin, it will be a joint mission! The mission will be to guard the northern border, from raids by common brigands, leave tomorrow at dawn.
Everyone started to resent having to work together and the fact that they were strong and could handle the task.
Minato... The decision is final and irrevocable.
All the children lowered their eyes, but were still glad to be out of the village.
Kushina gave her fist to her husband at the door, but Minato sat there thinking that it would be better not to go home today.
Toward evening of the same day, Minato and Hiruzen were sitting in the hokage's office. Minato had been trying to reconcile or find common ground with the third for a long time. Hiruzen had already accepted the fact that Naruto didn't need parental support for a long time, and he didn't protest. At the moment, Hiruzen occasionally helps Minato with mission distribution and other matters of national importance. Minato was thoughtful about the decision to send the genin to guard the border. But then he looked up a request that it was on the northern border that the stone nukenins had appeared, and they needed to be neutralized. Minato frowned, he couldn't let the genin get hurt by the ninjas, but he couldn't send anyone, since all the Anbu and jonin reserves were fixing the problems in the south in the land of water, due to the ninja renegade fog. He had no choice but to ask a third person for help.
Minato... The third?
Hiruzen... Hmm?
Minato... Uh, anyway, I need your help!
Hiruzen... What's the secret?
Minato... I need your men so they can neutralize the renegade stone ninjas on the northern border.
Because Itachi went to the land of snow, only Naruto and Shisui were left in the village after the mission.
Hiruzen... Well, I realize your men are busy, but I only have two Anbu on standby, and missions like this are done in threes.
Minato... All right, I'll send someone to help.
Hiruzen couldn't allow Naruto to be revealed under the guise of an anbu and decided to inquire.
Hiruzen. I hope this person is well versed in the anbu code? After all, my men report only to me and they will not reveal their identity to anyone...
Minato... Don't worry about that, I'll send someone who served in the anbu.
Hiruzen... All right, tomorrow morning they'll be waiting for your man at the west gate.
Hiruzen looked at the time and exclaimed.
Hiruzen... Uh-oh, I gotta go, and I gotta warn my people.
Minato... Of course, thank you so much, you've really helped me out!
Hiruzen left, closing the door behind him, and Minato was left wondering who to send for backup. Minato didn't mention that the subordinates might meet the genin and leaf on this mission, lest he receive another rebuke from Hiruzen.
At this time, Hatake Kakashi was returning from another mission. Minato had tried for the second year to shove geninis onto Kakashi so he could remove the darkness from his heart, but Kakashi often failed them on the bell test and sent them back to the academy. Kakashi is currently not a member of the anbu and is an elite leaf jonin. Kakashi was dressed in a black turtleneck and pants tied in bandages on his knees with black sandals underneath, his mask still on his face and a bandana covering his left eye. When he arrived at the residence, he decided to report back to his superiors on the mission accomplished.
Kakashi... Yo, sensei, I'm back from my mission, here's a report on the job done.
Minato looked at Kakashi and an idea popped into his head.
Minato... Oh, Kakashi, you're just what I need...
Kakashi... Uh, in what?
Minato... Anyway, tomorrow I need you to go on a mission with two Anbu who are under the command of a third.
Kakashi sighed in frustration.
Kakashi... But, sensei, I just...
Minato interrupted his usenik with a gesture of his hand.
Minato... Kakashi, I realize you just got off a mission, but this is very important!
Kakashi... Ahem, okay, I'm listening.
Minato decided to tell the full extent of the problem. Kakashi, though he was a cold-blooded person, still at some points in the story, almost protested with his sensei's decision.
Kakashi... Uh, yeah, business... I mean, I just need you to help me remove the Nukenins from the stone, right?
Minato began nervously going over his words.
Minato... Well, yeah, but if you could get those Anbu to protect our Genin in case of failure, that would be awesome.
Kakashi... Pfft, sensei, they have Gai and Kushina herself with them. They can protect them themselves, can't they?
Minato... Kakashi, this is more of a request than an order, because my daughter is on this team. And knowing her temper, she could do something and everything could suffer because of it... Their mission will only last two weeks.
Kakashi... Mma, your daughter can throw surprises, okay, but I will ask for a vacation!
Minato smiled at the fortunate cross-section of the circumstance.
Minato... No problem, and by the way, the third one asked not to be particularly interested in the personalities of anbu, but I think you're aware of that.
Kakashi... Sensei, are you kidding me?
Minato... No no no, just so I don't have a problem with the third one later.
Minato walked over to Kakashi and put a hand on his shoulder.
Minato... I'm counting on you!
Kakashi... I'll do what I can.
Minato was happy, everything was working out well and even went home to make his wife happy.
In the evening of the same day, Shisui went to Hiruzen's house to get another mission.
Shisui... Third, did you call for me?
Hiruzen... Yes, Shisui-kun, I have an assignment for you and Naruto.
Shisui... An assignment, so soon?
Х... Unfortunately yes, because of the fact that all the reserves of military forces go to protect the southern borders we do not have enough to contain the nukenins from the north. Just received a request today to remove another nukenin from the stone.
Shisui... We just got back yesterday, and Itachi won't be back from the land of snow for a while, and we'll need another shinobi for a mission like this.
Hiruzen... Don't worry about that, a man from Minato will be coming to your west gate tomorrow.
Shisui... Hmm, I hope he doesn't ask too many questions.
Hiruzen... I've already warned Minato to tell his man to keep his mouth shut.
Shisui... Ahem, well I'll stop by Naruto's tomorrow and we'll wait...
Hiruzen... Good luck to you!
The next morning, Naruto sat in the kitchen in his pajamas and sleep cap. Shisui often teased Naruto for this outfit, but after sleeping at Naruto's house one night, he realized that without such clothes you could easily catch a cold. Naruto brewed himself some jazmin tea and ate onigiri, he liked ramen but only in Ichiraku, but he only ate custard ramen in extreme cases. There was a knock on the door and Naruto sleepily walked to the door and looked through the peephole. Seeing Shisui outside the door he turned the lock and opened the door for him. Shisui was already dressed in his anbu uniform with a raven mask hanging on his hip and looking at the cuddly sight of a sleepy Naruto in his pajamas he almost jumped with laughter.
Shisui... Oh, Naru, I realize you can't sleep in this apartment without it, but I thought you'd take it off when you wake up, not walk around the house with it.
Naruto pouted his lips at such a subtle tease.
Naruto... Bro, stop messing with me, I just woke up. Come in, we'll have tea, it's boring alone...
Shisui walked into the apartment and started looking around. No matter how many times he came here, Naruto always kept the house clean. Shisui sat down at the table and waited for Naruto to pour his tea.
Naruto... By the way, I have some dango left, would you like some?
Shisui... When did I ever turn them down?
Naruto pulled a box of dango from the cabinet and placed it on the table.
Naruto... By the way, judging by your uniform, are we on a mission today?
Ш... Good thinking, we need to go to the north of the fire country and eliminate the Nukenin from the stone.
Naruto almost jumped for joy.
Naruto... Yay, finally a dattebayo mordobo, I'm sick of these mailman tasks.
Shisui... Hehehe, well, you get dressed when you're done, and I'll read a book.
Naruto... Got a sempai!
Naruto finished his breakfast and created a clone to clean up the table while he went to his closet stash. Naruto wore his blue t-shirt with a tanto armor on top, blue pants, high boots with an open toe, scroll handcuffs with metal handcuffs on top, a fox mask and a hood to keep his hair out of his face. After, closed the door from the apartment behind him and together with Shisui went to the gate. On the way they agreed that on the mission they would call each other fox and raven and also change their voices. They had waited almost two hours and were already on edge, in that time the genin had already gone north.
Fox... Is this asshole really coming?
Raven... Hopefully...
Ten minutes later, Kakashi himself approached them with a book in his hands.
Kakashi... Yo, I'm sorry I'm late, I was crossing my grandma across the street, so I'm a little late...
Kakashi looked first at Raven and then at Fox, Kakashi had given his word not to pry into their identities but now he was getting curious about this little anbu wearing a fox mask. The Anbu themselves gave the jonin a blazing glare, but still decided not to dwell on the subject.
Raven... Well, let's get right down to business. My nickname is Raven, I am good at genjutsu, fire and earth element, and also good at kenjutsu and shuriken throwing.
Fox... My alias is Fox, I have shadow clones, water and wind elements, good at kenjutsu and shuriken throwing.
Kakashi... Mma, you are well prepared, especially the little one, okay now it's my turn. Name's Kakashi Hatake, I'm a master of every element except air. Taijutsu and ninjutsu at a good level. That's it!
The Anbu were not surprised by such a set, for they themselves had firsthand knowledge of Kakashi's copying ninja.
Raven... All right, let's go!
The team jumped from branch to branch to finish the task. Kakashi vomited with curiosity, after all his record had just been broken, he himself had joined the Anbu at the age of thirteen and looking at this kid he decided to find out his age on the way.
Kakashi.. A fox?
Fox... Hmm?
Kakashi... Pardon the question, but aren't you a little too young for anbu?
Naruto was warned not to reveal his identity to anyone.
Fox... I'm sorry Kakashi san, but I'm not going to tell you about myself, you were warned not to ask too many questions.
Kakashi... Mma, I see...
Kakashi's such rejection further fueled his interest in the Fox. After two days, they reached the border and started looking for white ninjas.
At this time team three and four set up in the woods and began setting up camp. The kids still weren't happy with the decision to unite the teams, but a fist bump to the head from Kushina immediately tempered their ardor. Lee and Gai were busy training, Neji was patrolling the neighborhood with his Byakugan, Tenten, Karin and Inami were setting up camp and Kushina was leading them. Miroku went to the pond to fish, she wasn't allowed to go alone, but she made it clear she wanted to be alone. She was resentful that she was still considered small and defenseless. Kushina decided to go after her daughter to make sure she was okay. She walked over to her daughter and sat down next to her.
Kushina... Honey, are you still mad?
The girl turned away from her and began to shed tears.
Miroku... Mom, I'm not a little girl. I can take care of myself.
Kushina stroked the baby's head.
Kushina... Miroku, we're your parents and we can't let anything happen to you.
Miroku... Then why did I study and get high grades. I'm the best in the stream, even that Neji can't compare to me, but you keep saying I'm not ready...
The girl burst into tears and started beating her hands on the ground. Kushina comforted her as best she could, but suddenly the rustling started and Kushina began to get nervous.
Kushina... Miroku, we have to go and as soon as possible.
The girl still wouldn't stop and Kushina had to shake her.
Kushina... Miroku, we're being watched, get back to camp!
Miroku didn't get stubborn and obeyed her mom, but there were already several ninjas and many brigands surrounding her. The whole team huddled together and began to fend off the attacks. There were more and more ninjas and brigands and so Kushina and Guy had to go into a deep defense and try their luck at a counterattack.
At this time, Kakashi and the two Anbu were moving towards the sounds of the battle
Kakashi... Shit, we gotta hurry!
Raven... Bingo!
Fox... Kakashi san, do you know the earth wall?
Kakashi... Yeah, I know.
Fox... You can unhook your team from the enemy and we'll use a joint technique.
Kakashi... Got it...
Team 4 and 3 were already fighting as hard as they could, but then an earthen wall grew in front of them, and on top of it stood two Anbu and folded seals.
Raven... Cato, dragon flame technique.
Fox... Futon, the palm of the storm.
Fire and wind combined and a wave of fire was unleashed on the enemies. And as soon as the wall disappeared, the Anbu jumped off the wall. And the stone head girl stood looking at them.
... Reinforcements? Well, it doesn't help you any more than it helps us anyway.
Fox and Raven looked at each other and folded the seals.
Raven... Shunshin, freezing cloning.
Fox... Kage bunshin no jutsu.
The whole neighborhood was overrun with raven and fox clones.
... Oh, you! Kill them all.
The battle began anew with Raven and Fox slashing enemies with their swords, Kakashi and Gai mutilating enemies back-to-back, Kushina protecting the genin, and the genin themselves standing around. The Nukenins began to retreat and Kakashi decided to follow them.
Kakashi... Gaius, Raven, we're going after them. Fox, you stay here and help Kushina San fight off the enemies.
Fox... Got it
The men went in pursuit, but some still stood and attacked the genin. The fox, stood in front of the genin and threw a few shurikens, folding the seals.
Lis... Shuriken, shadow cloning.
A multitude of shurikens rained down on the enemy, some fought back and some were unlucky. The fox scowled and folded the other seals.
Fox... Suiton, water bullets.
From the water bullets, the enemies began to fall backward. But then their female leader started to get hysterical.
... Traitors, they all escaped.
She looked at the fox and licked her lips.
... You're not bad, you're good with a sword, let's see if you're that good?
The fox was swept away by a hail of sword blows, and in a moment they crossed swords.
... Good, very good, but it's not enough to beat me.
She pulled out a kunai and tried to strike from her right side. The fox simply made a seal with one hand and there appeared a kunai and with a deft movement of her hand repelled the attack from her side. The fox infused his sword with the chakra of the wind and his opponent's slash. The woman jumped away from the fox and folded the seals.
... Daughton, stone bullets.
The fox unsheathed his swords with wind chakra and fended off a hail of rocks in a steamy style.
... Oh, you have so many surprises, why don't you show me some more?
The fox said nothing but simply created a clone that folded the seals for Storm's palm. The fox sort of springboarded off the clone and sprinted at very high speed at the woman and stuck his sword primo in her belly. The woman settled to the ground holding her stomach. Kushina walked over to the fox and looked at the woman.
Kushina... Who are you?
... Who cares, I'm already dead!
Fox didn't take his eyes off the dying woman.
Fox...Uh, what's your name?
Kushina... Kushina.
Fox... Kushina san, I have to help the juniors, you can do it without me.
There were no more enemies around.
Kushina... Yeah, thank you, uh.
Fox... Fox, just Fox.
The fox had gone on ahead and Kushina was left with a pensive look, she was surprised that Anbu was wearing a fox mask, because in Konoha a fox was considered the most horrible creature. That's when the others approached Kushina.
Miroku... Mom, who was that boy?
Lee... Kushina san, the power of youth burns in him and I would like to duel with him.
Neji... PF, this one's a poser.
Tenten... Guys, we barely survived, and you're asking about a boy in a mask...
Karin... I wonder who was under the mask?
Kushina just hit the ground and immediately a rumbling sound was heard and then she started blowing ki.
Kushina... You, you barely survived, and if it wasn't for them, we'd be in the ground here a long time ago. If you make such a scene again, we're going back to the village, do you understand me?
Everyone stood frozen, but they didn't object.
Kushina... Now get back to camp quickly and wash the blood off you!
The children were frightened not only by her ki, but also by the fact that there were dead bodies lying there. None of the Genin killed a single enemy, but knocked out and fought back whenever possible. At this time Fox was leaping through the trees and rushing at full speed. In the clearing, the jonins and ravens overtook the enemies and the battles began. The fox jumped into the clearing.
Raven... Lis, is everything all right?
Fox... In full, I even left the clones in for backup.
Raven... All right, now let's go.
The fox and the raven rushed at the enemies combining their attacks. Kakashi dashed at the enemy with a raikiri, Naruto liked the technique and even scanned with a chakro wave. There were few nukenins left and the jonin and anbu were cornering the enemies and they simply closed themselves in a stone ball that neither water nor fire nor wind could take.
Fox... Kakashi san!
Kakashi... Hmm?
Fox... Why don't you try that lightning bolt technique in your hand?
Kakashi... No way, my Raikiri's power depends on my speed and the distance is too small to accelerate.
The fox thought a segund ten and exclaimed.
Fox... Prepare your technique, when I give the signal then push off my hand.
Kakashi was interested in such a strategy and decided to give it a try. Kakashi prepared his raikiri and Fox created a clone and the two began to fold the seals for the storm palm.
Fox... Come on!
Kakashi pushed off the springboard out of the air and sprinted at full speed destroying the stone ball with a blast from the Raikiri. Kakashi looked over the enemies and buried the bodies with the help of the earth technique and approached the Fox.
Kakashi... Good job! Now, everybody, let's go back!
The four returned to the camp and all four began to pile up the bodies, while Raven burned them with the fire elemental. Kakashi marveled at the familiar look with which the fox was killing his enemies while Kushina sat staring at the fox with a dazed look. Gaius walked over to the anba and extended his thumb.
Guy... Well done guys, I wish I knew your names, but I'm sure you have the fire of eternal youth burning in you.
Anbu glanced over and shrugged, then walked over to Kakashi.
Raven... Kakashi san, we have to go back, mission accomplished!
Kakashi couldn't let that happen, after all, Minato had asked to talk them into staying to protect the genin.
Kakashi... Guys, why don't we stay? I'm worried about the kids, in case someone attacks!
Anbu glanced around again.
Raven... Kakashi san, but they still have the jonin with them and it's unlikely that anyone will attack them.
Kakashi... Here, anything can happen. The Hokage herself had expected only brigands to be here, and not in such numbers. These kids just graduated from the academy two months ago and they have no experience. Especially since they're all twelve years old!
Raven didn't like such excuses and couldn't resist commenting.
Raven... Yes? And Fox is only turning eleven this year.
At that moment, Fox poked his partner in the side.
Raven... Ouch, sorry, generally don't worry about them.
Kakashi almost went into a droll, but shook his head and continued on.
Kakashi... Okay, what do you want?
Anbu glanced around again and thought about Kakashi being a treasure trove of techniques and decided to learn a little from him.
Fox... Kakashi san, I'm very interested in your raikiri and how it works, I'd like you to teach it the basics.
Kakashi... But why would you? You don't have lightning.
Fox... No, I don't want the raikiri itself, but the way the technique works.
Kakashi thought for a moment and agreed, but Raven needed a different level of technique.
Raven... Kakashi san, as you know I am proficient in the element of earth, but the amount of techniques is very small and I would like to learn a couple from you.
Kakashi... Mma, shit, okay...
Fox... All right! We can work out when we're free.
Kakashi was cheering inside, but still he would now have to make time for two pushy anbu, what can you do, he asked for it. The entire trio approached Kushina and Gai.
Kakashi... Kushina san, we're staying here, because there's no telling how many more nukenin might come.
Kushina was happy about this decision.
Kushina... Yes, of course you stay!
Guy... Yosh, Kakashi, why don't we compete and see whose youthful power burns brightest?
Kakashi... Uh, let's take a rain check.
That's when Lee ran up to Fox and began his exclamation.
Lee... I can't stand by and watch Sensei Gai compete alone. Fox-kun, maybe we can compete too, you're a very strong competitor!
Naruto didn't like pointless muzzling and decided to smoothly refuse.
Fox... Uh, you know, in light of recent circumstances, I'd like to offer you an alternative to the fact that our competition will be held in the woods, and looking at your teachers, it would be too uncultured of us to fall in their eyes, so let's just never?
Everyone's brains almost melted from such a long sentence. Lee, on the other hand, was strangely chipper.
Lee... Oh, come on, of course I don't mind Lis kun!
The fox was glad his interlocutor had fallen into a verbal trap.
Lis... Great, I knew you'd say yes, I gotta go wash up!
Lee stood with a dazed look.
Lee... Foxy Coon, what about our competition?
Lis... I said let's just never! You said yes.
Lee was as confused as Gai, but Kakashi was writing down Lee's speech in his notebook to use against Gai.
Kushina was glad one of the kids had brains, but she had one question and dragged Kakashi by the scruff of his neck to the corner to talk.
Kushina... Now, Kakashi, tell me, who is he?
Kakashi... Who do you mean by Kushina san?
Kushina... Don't play dumb, this boy is not simple and why is he wearing a fox mask?
Kakashi... Kushina san, Minato Sensei made it clear to me to stay away from them.
Kushina sighed in frustration.
Kushina... Nothing, but he didn't say anything to me, and in a week I'll know about this boy.
An hour later, everyone was sitting around the fire, but the Anbu were sitting in a tree choking on food pills. Kushina called them to the fire, but they politely obliged, but her patience ran out and with a blow of her hand she broke the tree and they had to sit by the fire with the others. All the genin looked at the Fox with envy and tried to stare, but those never once removed their mask. Kakashi walked over to the fox and handed him a bottle of water.
Kakashi... Here, have some, because I know what it's like to choke on pills.
Fox... Thanks Kakashi san.
The fox took the bottle and everyone watched mesmerized as he was going to drink, but the fox himself took out a tube and drank through it through the eye hole of the mask. Kushina... What a sly one! It's okay, it's okay, it'll be okay. Neji, come here, please.
Neji... Yes Kushina san?
Kushina... Look at Fox's face with a Byakugan.
Neji. It won't work. I already checked.
Kushina... What? What's the matter?
Neji... I don't know how this mask works, but through the byakugan, I can only see the ligature of seals and that's it!
Kushina was in a stupor.
Kushina... And the crows, too?
Neji... Unfortunately yes!
Kushina didn't know what to do anymore, because such concealment seals only belonged to the Uzumaki clan.
Kushina... Who the fuck are you people?!
The fox sat next to the raven and kept his head down until Miroku approached him.
Miroku... Hey you, Fox, take your mask off!
Naruto sat up and tried not to fidget.
Fox... I'm sorry, what's your name?
The girl started with her chest up proudly.
Miroku... My name is Miroku Namikaze I am the daughter of the fourth hokage and Kushina Uzumaki. I am our year's valedictorian, I am also...
Then she looked at the stump where the fox was sitting and there was a note. "I'll be back soon, don't take up space," and the fox himself is gone. Miroku took the note in her hands and went into a frenzy tearing up the sheet.
Miroku... Yeah, how dare he run off like that? I'll find him and kill him!
Karin... Is that boy really 11 years old? I can't believe it!
Neji... Shh.
Lee... I'll still challenge him to a fight!
At this time, everyone started to banter amongst themselves and Kushina made a facepalm. And the raven sat back and tried to contain his laughter. Naruto was walking through the forest at this time when suddenly he wasn't met by Kakashi.
Kakashi... Lis kun, it wasn't polite of you to run off like that...
Fox... Kakashi san, I just had to pee, so I couldn't help myself.
Kakashi... Mma, okay, but keep in mind that she will not leave you alone like all geninas.
Fox... What, what do they want from me?
Kakashi... Information, you're very interested in them, 11 years old and already anbu.
Fox... Do they know my age?
Kakashi... Unfortunately yes, your age has taken its toll on your pride and now they're trying to find out where you got your power from.
Fox... Okay, well, we should get back.
Kakashi and Fox sat down in their seats and Miroku approached Fox with bad intentions.
Miroku... You, how dare you leave like that!
Fox... Sorry, nature calls, and as a girl I couldn't tell you that directly.
Miroku walked away from Fox with a red face. Kushina was still glaring and she decided to try using the fish she had fried.
Kushina... Lis kun, here's a taste of this fish, I cooked it myself!
Fox stopped her with a gesture of his hand.
Fox... Sorry I've had enough, but thanks for the offer.
The fox took the fish and put it in front of him, and Kushina did not take her eyes off the fox, but then she closed her eyes, and when she opened them, there was Gai in place of the fox. Kushina stomped her foot on the ground.
Kushina... All right, we want to play, then we'll play by my rules. Early in the morning when everyone was asleep, Kushina approached the fox's tent and began to slowly pull off her mask, as a pop occurred and a stump appeared in place of the fox, and the fox stood outside the tent.
Fox... Kushina san, what were you doing in my tent?
Kushina realized she was in trouble and decided to get out of it.
Kushina... Lis-kun, I'm sorry, I was just trying to wake Miroku up and you have such shiny tents...
Kushina scratched the back of her head with a silly grin.
Fox... Yes? But only me and the raven have tents, you didn't want to build a tent like we suggested and just lay on the futon.
Kushina... Uh-huh, huh? I'm sorry. I thought, okay, just forget it.
Fox... Um... All right, I'm outta here!
Kushina... А? Where to?
Fox began scratching the back of his head.
Fox... Kushina san, you'd better not go where I'm going.
Kushina realized what Fox meant and just went about her business on her way muttering under her breath.
Kushina... What the hell is going on here?
An hour later, Fox and Raven found Kakashi and took him to a training session away from everyone.
Fox... So Kakashi san can show off your raikiri.
Kakashi... Mmma, look.
Kakashi began to form a raikiri and Fox at the same time extended his arm and emitted a chakro pulse for a detailed study. Kakashi watched Fox's manipulation and felt a faint chakro wave.
Fox... I see, you concentrate a large amount of chakra in your right hand using it as a base, but with your left hand you clamp your wrist to give the concentrated chakra the element of lightning, am I right?
Kakashi was stunned, for the boy didn't use a sharingan but simply recognized the touch of one hand.
Kakashi... How did you know?
Fox... A secret! Okay, I understand the basis and now I will try to make something of my own, thank you!
Naruto created clones and all the clones began to concentrate chakra in his hand,Kakashi was even more interested in the boy's skills, but he had one more technique goop waiting for him.
Raven... Okay, now it's my turn, let's not let Fox get in the way!
Kakashi... Mma, okay.
The two elders left, but the fox remained concentrating the chakra in his hand.
Raven simply copied a few ground techniques and left Kakashi alone.
Shisui could use his mask to keep his sharingan out of sight, so no one could see his eyes. Kakashi was frowning because the two Anbu had just gotten blown away, he was getting ready to give long lectures and watch the learning process, but he was overcome with curiosity and decided to see how the fox was doing, but when he got to his clearing, the fox was being watched by everyone. But suddenly all the clones disappeared and the original himself looked in the direction where the spectators were standing.
Fox... What do you want and why are you following me?
Everyone had already realized they'd already been discovered and started blaming each other for letting it be discovered.
Fox... I don't like people watching me without asking.
Miroku couldn't take it anymore and launched herself at the blond with angry rants.
Miroku... How dare you, why don't you show your face?
The fox ran high up into a tree at this time, and Miroku started throwing rocks at him and shaking the tree.
Miroku... Get down from there or I'll blow your head off!
Fox... I'm sorry, but I'm fine here!
Miroku was furious and Kushina walked over to her and put a hand on her shoulder.
Kushina... Sorry Lis kun, it's just that we're all really curious about what's underneath your mask.
The fox sighed in frustration and walked down to them.
Fox... I'm sorry, but I can't, as a member of the anbu unit, I can't give you my identity. Kakashi san will explain it to you better, now if you'll excuse me, I have to continue training.
Everyone wilted and left the stage, but Kakashi stayed to watch on.
Kakashi... Lis kun, I thought you needed help building your new tech?
The fox sighed that he still wouldn't be left alone and decided not to refuse help.
Fox... Okay, I'm having trouble creating a base and forming a chakra.
Kakashi.. Mma, this is a long time to learn, but I see you have very good control and the chakra reserves to support so many clones. I see you've already figured out the front end chip and I think you can do it.
Naruto sat with a drained look and Kakashi stood over him just reading his book.
Kakashi... You know, I think you're wasting your time hiding your identity, because they're gonna see your face anyway.
Fox... What makes you say that?
Kakashi... Kushina san knows how to persuade!
The fox straightened up and answered.
Fox... I'll bet you 5,000 re that they can't see my face.
Kakashi... Mma, why, I agree!
Fox... Deal, the argument will last until the end of the getaway...
They shook hands and Kakashi went off on his own and Fox was sitting there looking at his whirlpool sign when suddenly it hit him. He stood up and began to concentrate the chakra in a straight palm, and then he began to swirl it clockwise. The chakra became so thick that it resembled a rotating disk and then he grabbed his wrist with his other hand and began to carefully add the wind element to this disk and this technique resembled something like the disk from a drill and then began to chop trees with this disk. It was not enough because with this technique he could only cut but he needed destructive power and at the end with the maximum twist of the disk with the wind blew on a small boulder and his arm went through the elbow stuck there. Naruto already thought he couldn't get that hand out as he suddenly squeezed his palm and the windmill disk in his hand started to devorm and blew the boulder into small stones. Naruto was happy with the result and went with a happy face, though it couldn't be seen under the mask. He met Guy on the way and decided to strike up a conversation.
Guy... Yo, fox-kun, you practicing?
Fox... Uh-huh.
Gaius extended his thumb upward and exclaimed.
Guy... Well done, hard work always pays off.
Naruto was up to some sort of scam and decided to have a little fun.
Fox... Gai San, you want to unmask me too, don't you?
Guy... Hmm, if anything, yes!
Fox... What about Kakashi san, what's his face like under the mask?
Gaius scratched his chin.
Guy... On second thought, no!
Fox... Gaius San, why don't I make him take off his mask?
Guy... Ahahahaha, you think that's possible? Kakashi never took off his mask, so it's unlikely you'll be able to.
Fox... I bet I can. The subject of the dispute is five thousand re?
Gaius thought long and hard and decided to give the go-ahead.
Fox... All right, argument period before the end of the stretch.
Guy... Deal!
In the evening of the same day, Kushina decided to go to extreme measures, to whip up Fox's pride and catch him off guard. Kushina walked over to the river where the fox himself was sitting and began her shenanigans.
Kushina... Hey, Lis-kun.
Fox... Hello Kushina san!
Kushina... You know, I think you're afraid to take off your mask so you play the tough guy.
Naruto's gears started to play in his head and an ezzy smile appeared on his face.
Fox... What makes you think I'm afraid to take off my mask?
Kushina... Well, you know, a lot of kids your age are trying to seem cool, so I thought you were one of them, you just don't get enough attention, so you're trying to attract the attention of others with your mystery.
Good play half-mouthed in Naruto's head and then began to execute his plan.
Fox... I'm not afraid.
Kushina... Then take off the mask.
Fox... No, it's no fun, I bet I take my mask off by the end of the afternoon on the day of departure.
Kushina was already inwardly jubilant that if she didn't find out, at least she could get something for it.
Kushina... Come on, what's the bet?
Fox... Five thousand re.
Kushina... Deal!
Naruto was already twiddling his thumbs and moving on. He decided to sit alone but his idyll came to an end when Miroku approached him.
Miroku... Hey you! You like being the center of attention, huh?
Fox... Not really...
Miroku grumbled and decided to tease him.
Miroku... And you know, nobody cares about your face and not many people want you...
Naruto thought he was having a good time today and decided to take advantage of the opportunity.
Fox... You know, some people are even willing to pay me to take off my mask.
Miroku... Pfft, don't make it up, who would agree to such nonsense.
Fox... I bet if someone pays me to take off the mask, you give me 5,000 re, and if not, I'll pay you.
Miroku decided not to turn down the freebies.
Miroku... Deal.
Over the next two days, Naruto perfected his spiral disk, as well as offered a bet to Shisui that he could pull off a scam on the jonin. The argument was just as interesting but Shisui sent it off to put it mildly. And waters the evening before leaving, Naruto stood at the range and decided to show off his new equipment to Raven and Kakashi. Naruto folded the seals and grabbed his right wrist, a chakra dis appeared on his palm and wind blades swirled around it.
Kakashi... Well Lis kun, it looks beautiful, now let's look at the destructive power.
Naruto started to run to the boulder and stuck his arms up to his elbows.
Kakashi... Is that it?
Naruto squeezed his palm and the boulder shattered into small pieces. Kakashi slumped into the drop and stared at the boulder shards with bulging eyes.
Fox... So, Kakashi san?
Kakashi... It's just marvelous...
Raven... Well done Fox, what do you call this technique?
Naruto started gesturing with his hands.
Fox... The punishing disk of wind driving you straight into hell!
Raven and Kakashi nearly fell over on the spot.
Raven... Over my dead body only, that title is idiotic and too long.
Kakashi lade caught deja vu, for Minato also gave his techniques long and absurd names.
Kakashi... Lis kun, just call it "wind disk."
Fox... Hey, that's boring, but my name actually sounded.
Raven tapped the top of Fox's head.
Fox... Got the wind disk so wind disk.
Kakashi and the raven laughed and walked back.
The next morning, Naruto woke up and went to do his morning ritual, but suddenly he was surrounded by genin, led by Miroku.
Miroku... We're sick of you, take off your stupid mask.
Fox... You're playing dirty with Miroku chan!
Miroku... Who's playing the best they can, come on guys pile on and let's finally get this stupid mask off.
Everyone started yelling and ran at the blond guy, but he just avoided the attacks with a swap and ran into the woods.
Miroku... Damn it, after him, don't let him get away!
Everyone ran after him, Naruto stopping along the way to deftly knock down the closest one. Team number three caught up with Naruto the fastest and engaged in a taijutsu fight. Naruto deftly parried Neji's attacks, dodged Lee's strong attacks, and fended off Tenten's shurikens with his kunai. But then team number 4 joined in and started piling on one by one.
Fox... I'm sick of you guys.
With these words he shook the clones and they jumped up and started throwing kunai in different directions and then Shunshin moved far away from them and pulled the fishing lines that came from the kunai. The entire team was caught in a web of fishing line and the fishing line itself had an explosion of seals hanging from it.
Fox... Not one step further or I'm blowing up.
Everyone froze in place and tried not to move. All the adults came up to this buffoonery.
Kushina... What's going on here?
Fox... They tried to attack me and take off my mask.
The Jonins looked at their genin and shook their heads
Guy... Lee, Neji, Tenten, it's not fair to gang up on one.
Kushina... Girls, okay boys, but what's gotten into you?
Miroku almost crying replied.
Miroku... Mom, he's fed up, let him take off his mask!
Kushina... Honey, enough already. If he doesn't want to take it off, he doesn't have to take it off.
Kakashi placed a hand on Fox's shoulder.
Kakashi... Lis kun, please let go of the lines or the seals will explode!
Naruto looked at Kakashi with an ezid look.
Fox... So these aren't seals, they're just papers I bought from a gimmick store, you can even check with a sharingan, there's no chakra in these papers.
Shisui gritted his teeth at the memory of that store, and Kakashi lifted his blindfold and began to check the papers.
Kakashi... True, there's no chakra there, but why do you need those papers?
Fox... Just to screw people over.
Genin began ripping fishing lines with anger and joined the others.
Fox... So, guys, if I take off my mask, will you be off me?
All the genii have been ditched according to the genii.
Lee... Yes Lis kun!
Miroku... Okay, we're all in agreement
Fox... But I'll only take off my mask if Kakashi San takes off his!
Kakashi... Hey, Lis-kun, that's not fair!
Fox... Fair's fair, I put my terms on the table, it's up to you to agree or not.
A clamor began and Kushina walked up to Kakashi and whispered.
Kushina... Kakashi, I know about your double mask trick, you're not losing anything anyway.
Kakashi rubbed his hands together as he would also get the winnings.
Kakashi... All right, I'll take it on three. One, two, three.
They both took off their masks and both had another mask underneath. Everyone almost fell over from that kind of fun.
Fox... Double Masks, Old Divorce, Kakashi san.
Kakashi... Mma, but I won the bet, so give me the money.
Naruto... Why did you win the argument? We were betting that everyone would make me show my face by the end of the day of departure, which is today, my face is still in the mask, so you're the one who's making the money!
Kakashi was stunned that he was being played.
Kakashi... All right, little man, here's five thousand re.
Fox... Now, Guy San, get the money.
Guy... What? But Kakashi had another mask.
Fox... It doesn't matter, we argued that I'd make him wear one mask instead of two, Kakashi San took off the mask, so give me the money.
Gaius gritted his teeth but pulled out the money.
Guy... Here you go, I hope this doesn't diminish the flame of youth in you.
Fox... Now it's Kushina san's turn!
Kushina was stunned at this naglage.
Kushina... Me, but it's departure day, so the argument is long gone, so you owe me.
Fox... You and I had a bet that I'd take my mask off before noon on the day of departure and it's only ten o'clock in the morning, so be kind!
Kushina looked at her watch and almost broke it, but still handed over the money.
Kushina... All right, you little bastard, you win this time.
Fox... Great and finally Miroku.
Everyone looked at her with bulging eyes.
Miroku... What about me?
Fox... We had a bet. If someone pays me to take off the mask, you owe me five thousand re!
Miroku turned up her nose and folded her arms.
Miroku... So not fair they all bet you!
Fox... No kidding, Kushina san paid for me to take off my mask. Or does the hokage's daughter not keep her word?
The question about the hokage hit her pride and she started searching her purse for money, but only found three thousand.
Miroku... Mom, if you lend me 2 grand, I'll pay you back from the mission.
Kushina stood there with her mouth hanging open, and then realized she had given the missing amount.
Miroku... Here, choke on this!
Fox... I'll try.
But there was a clamor from the Geninians and some came up to punch Fox in the face, but he stopped them.
Fox... Relax guys, you promised you'd leave me alone if I took off my mask!
All the genii calmed down, but inwardly blazed with righteous anger.
Naruto picked up his bag and stomped over to the raven and turned to the teams.
Fox... Glad to have worked with you datebayo!
They disappeared from sight but the jonin looked at each other. Kushina heard the word that she repeated day in and day out, but she didn't think much of it.
Kushina... So, what, this little punk's screwing us over?
Kakashi... Mma, to think he's only 11 years old and he's already pulling a stunt like that, that asshole.
Guy... Eh, you still haven't gotten over the fact that this boy beat you to the enrollment anbu?
Kakashi... What's that got to do with it?
Kushina looked ominously at the spot where the fox stood.
Kushina... It's okay, I'll find that alfonso and make him pay for it!
Naruto and Shisui at this time couldn't calm down from such a con for a long time.
Shisui... Naru, I almost agreed to your argument, didn't I?
Naruto... Uh, okay, let's go home, this mask is making it hard for me to breathe...
Hiruzen had a heart attack when he heard that he had been in Kushina's camp, but when he heard that Naruto had divorced three jonin and the daughter of the Hokage, he couldn't come to his senses for a long time.
The jonin himself and Miroku stood in the hokage's office to issue the report. After the report, they were all interested in one question.
Kushina... Honey, who was the fox-masked anbu?
Minato was interested in this turn of events.
Minato... A boy?
Kakashi... Yeah, his raven-masked sidekick said the boy was only 11 years old.
Minato... 11 years old and already in the Anbu, Kakashi, you want to know who broke your record for Anbu acceptance?
Kakashi... Minato sensei, what's with all the talk about the record? We're just curious.
Minato frowned and looked at Kakashi.
Minato... Kakashi, you were an Anbu, and not just an Anbu, but a captain. You do know that anbu identities don't give out and it's a closed topic...
Kakashi lowered his eyes like everyone else.
Minato... What did he do to you?
Guy... Well, not that he did, but we all lost twenty thousand re-
Minato... Wow, now, that's a little more detail...
A long story about how the little fox had bilked the adult jonin and the hokage's little daughter out of money began, and Minato's reaction was this.
Minato... Ahahahahaha, you guys, a little kid divorced the four of you. I'd like to meet that con man myself!
Kushina... Minato, enough already, we're sick of it...
Minato... Oh okay, have it your way, but for future reference. Don't get a loan from the bank, it'll have more curlicues than this fox.
Kushina... Hahaha, how funny, are you sure you don't know who that is?
Minato... Honestly, I don't know... Okay, you're free to go.
Everyone came out of the residence eager to dig on that fox. Minato, on the other hand, sat back and was even encouraged by the boy's fence like that, but then there was a knock on the door and immediately Hiruzen himself walked in.
Hiruzen... Hello Minato.
Minato... Oh, the third one, have a seat!
Hiruzen saw the happy face and decided to inquire as to the reasons.
Hiruzen... Minato, why are you so cheerful?
Minato wiped away his tears and started through his laughter.
Minato... Oh, three, you should have heard what they said about your Anba.
Hiruzen... Uh, my anbu?
Minato... Yeah, the one with the fox mask!
Hiruzen... And what was said about him?
Minato... About what an alfonso that little boy turned out to be.
Hiruzen... Haha, he can do that.
Minato. I can't believe that kid got three jonin and my daughter too.
Hiruzen... It's just that he often lived in deception and learned how to control it!
Minato whistled and enthusiastically started talking about not talking.
Minato... Wow, he's been through a lot to be able to wield words so well, and he's not bad in a fight. Kushina said that this kid took down a bunch of ninjas and didn't even bat an eyebrow...
Hiruzen didn't care about jokes, because they had only heard about Naruto under the fox mask once, and they were already talking about him.
Hiruzen... I see you're interested in this boy?
Minato... You bet, Kakashi said this boy had created a new technique in just a week. I wish I had a son like that, I'd show him so much.
Hiruzen almost choked on smoke at those words.
Hiruzen... Ahem, yeah I agree he's good!
Minato looked curiously at the old man.
Minato... Third, who's the boy, anyway, if it's no secret?
Hiruzen. A secret.
Minato... It's a shame, but I think we'll see him again, hopefully.
Hiruzen thought it would be a nightmare, and it was unlikely that Naruto would be left alone.
Hiruzen... Unfortunately he's returning home tonight.
Minato was surprised at this turn of events.
Minato... Back home?
Hiruzen... Yeah, he's from waterfall country himself, an acquaintance of mine recommended him to gain experience and now he's going back to the falls.
Minato... A waterfall? Maybe make a deal with the head of the Falls and I could take this boy under my wing.
Hiruzen was already at his limit and now he was ready to explode.
Hiruzen... Minato.
Minato... Yes, the third one?
Hiruzen... What's going on with you and Kushina?
Minato... What's the matter?
Hiruzen... You know exactly what this is about.
Minato... I don't understand...
Hiruzen. Why are you and Kushina always thinking about the other kids while forgetting about your own and I don't mean Miroku.
Minato frowned at the fact that it had started all over again.
Minato... Third, we talked about this a long time ago.
Hiruzen... Have you and Naruto talked about this? No, he's a baby, he can't say anything, so let's shove one of the strongest Biju's into him and then throw him out on the street like the last mutt.
Hiruzen just got up from the couch and walked towards the door.
Hiruzen... This anbu boy, will leave the village and that's it.
Hiruzen closed the door behind him, but Minato himself remained with a sour face.
Minato... Hell, he's right, isn't he, when did I become such an asshole? Naruto, hmm.
He got up from his chair and walked towards the cabinets where the academy students' test results from the past years were. For the first time in his life he looked at Naruto's file and saw a picture of him, smiling, combed his hair and even that mustache suited him just fine.
Minato... Damn, it does look like him, except with shorter hair.
Turning the page, he came to a horror.
Minato... Oh, my God, what the... His grades are worse than any student in Konoha's history, even Obito's were better.
Flipping through the pages he almost bulged his eyes.
Minato... What the, can he at least write and read? Man, that's not the case...
Minato turned back to the picture of Naruto.
Minato... Damn, what have we done... The weapon of the village, the jinchuriki, everyone hates him, and yet he never once embittered or released Kyubey's chakra. What kind of father am I after that! He was foolishly fooled by the fact that the one-tailed jinchuriki had lost control, when in fact this Gaara is the best student in Suna. Shit, I need a drink.
After that night, he took a picture of Naruto and spent the whole night looking at him and fell asleep on his picture there.