Chapter 42
A return to a normal life.
The rain was still pouring in the sky, Minato, Rasa, and Ei standing over the grave of the recently deceased third hokage. The Kazekage and Raikage couldn't help but come here to honor the third Hokage.
Hey... I can't believe the third one's already dead.
Race... Hiruzen dano was the wisest among all the kage of this world. I hope he finds peace, in a clean world.
Minato... There is no doubt about it, he left this world with a clear conscience, which few people manage to do.
Hey... Rest in peace old man, the world will never forget your services.
The three kage placed a flower on the grave and bowed low with their hands folded in prayer. They still stood as they did, drilling the name on the third man's grave.
Hey... Minato, I think we've had enough of your visit, it's time for us to go back!
Ei walked off in the direction of the exit, but Rasa and Minato looked at the heroes' memorial where Naruto and Konohamaru stood beside it. Hearing a rousing speech from the younger blond, Konohamaru crouched on Naruto's back and took off towards the exit of the cemetery. Both hokage looking at this hilarious situation sighed with a smile.
Race... Hiruzen left behind a great generation of future defenders.
Minato... There's no doubt about it.
Rasa, seeing the saddened look on Minato's face and the depressed tone with which he spoke those words, decided to support him by placing a hand on his shoulder.
Race... Minato, I believe your son will recognize you as his father. I admit it will be difficult for you, but you'll get through it!
From such encouragement, Minato though not enthusiastic, but still smiled at such support.
Minato... Thank you.
Race... Well, I guess we should get going too, Gaara should have recovered by now.
Minato... Best of luck on the road.
Rasa nodded at such a wish and removed himself from his seat, leaving Minato to drill the third man's grave again.
Minato's thoughts... Third, will I be able to right all my wrongs as well as you? I know it's impossible, but I'd love to meet the day when Naruto calls me his father. Third, even as I wallow in my mistakes. You have not abandoned me, I am very grateful for that. Rest in peace, third self.
With these thoughts, he didn't even notice Kushina walk up to him and nuzzle her neck against her husband's shoulder.
Kushina... I've been thinking all these days that it's going to be okay. I was hoping the third one would come to his senses and not sacrifice himself.
Minato... Like the rest of us, but the third one has been wanting to retire for a long time. Orochimaru was the only thing keeping him in this world.
Kushina... I hope he was able to fulfill his last will and testament.
Jiraiya... No, he couldn't.
Jiraiya and Tsunade came up behind him and began to look at the third man's grave. Kushina became dejected and regretful from such a fact.
Kushina... I couldn't, so the third man's sacrifice was in vain?
Tsunade... On the contrary, he punished Orochimaru far worse than death. Shirinami cut off the snake's arms and now Orochimaru will not be able to use the techniques ever again. Enough talk, it's been a hard day, I have to get back to business. Kushina, let's go, we have to go through the hospital reports.
The women went on their way out of the cemetery, leaving the men to ponder. Minato was doubtful of this turn of events, for he was well acquainted with the serpent.
Minato... But that won't stop Orochimaru from continuing his shenanigans.
Jiraiya... Minato, do you think it was easy for the old man to make that decision? He nurtured him and taught him many things. Would you kill Kakashi if he was in the dark?
Minato stammered at such a question and simply lowered his head.
Jiraiya... Believe me, I've asked myself the same question. But the good news is that you came to your senses.
Minato took his sensei's hint and just sighed regretfully.
Minato... I think we should get back to business, too.
Jiraiya... So, Minato, are you free tonight?
Minato... Not until after the meeting.
Jiraiya... All right, I'll see you in Yakiniku.
Sanin and the Hokage went their separate ways. Naruto and Konohamaru were walking through the village, and along the way, they met Sasuke. Sasuke knew of the blond man's nature and how he didn't like self-pity and just waved his hand.
Sasuke... Yo, dobe, Konohamaru!
Naruto... Theme?
Konohamaru. Hi!
Sasuke... I daresay you're going to Ichiraku.
Naruto... Yeah, well, I don't have anything to do today anyway.
Sasuke... Since that's the case, let's go.
The three of them were walking and Naruto decided to get a little bit of some details.
Naruto... Teme, there's news, I've been banned from missions for now until I'm fully recovered dattebayo.
Sasuke... Hmm, while you were chilling in the hospital, all the genin were doing strictly D rank missions and not leaving the village.
Naruto... Wow, with the influx of visitors from other countries, you must have had a lot on your plate.
Sasuke... Shh, you bet, except it's boring to do missions like this all the time.
Here they noticed that many of the guests were heading for the exit of the village.
Naruto... I think things will get back to normal soon. Interesting, I was told by Kakashi sensei that he was constantly on missions. Sakura was in the hospital, what have you been doing all this time?
Sasuke wrinkled his nose at the memories of spending all those three weeks in the village.
Sasuke... The Hokage herself said it was good experience to work in the rotation. Many kunoichi were sent to the hospital to improve their irienin skills, and we were teamed up to work on missions.
Naruto... So you've worked with other teams?
Sasuke... You have no idea what I've had to endure!
Naruto... А?
Sasuke began to shrivel at the memory.
Sasuke... Kiba, as well as his doggie, stinks. Shino is crawling with insects, it's disgusting. That's what Choji does, he eats, and once you mention his size, it's all gone. Neji is constantly on his own mind and often goes missing from the clan just like Hinata. Shikamaru is a lazy bum, but he does say some good things. Tenten asks for a shuriken master class. And the rest of us, as you realized, only go to the hospital. Even Itachi disappears on a mission, so it's boring.
Naruto almost whistled at this state of affairs.
Naruto... I see, I guess it'll be over soon and we'll be back to normal.
Sasuke... Shh, I can't wait.
While walking to Ichiraku, they came across a sand ninja. Gaara was already standing more relaxed than before, Kankuro wasn't looking down on him, and Temari hadn't changed much. Gaara walked over to Naruto and held out his hand.
Gaara... Thank you, Uzumaki Naruto, I've learned a lot since the day we fought.
Naruto returned the handshake and smiled blissfully.
Naruto... Thank you too, I learned a lot from our fight too, Sobaku no Gaara.
Gaara turned to Sasuke and bowed his head slightly in regret.
Gaara... I apologize for the incident at our duel.
Sasuke was no longer surprised that after meeting his friend, many people changed for the better.
Sasuke... Nothing.
Gaara straightened up and extended his hand, and Sasuke returned the handshake.
Gaara... I hope to see you again.
Naruto... After all, the world is not as big as it seems, maybe we'll see each other again!
Gaara made a nod and walked towards the direction of the exit. Temari walked over to the guys.
Temari... Thank you for changing my brother, Naruto.
Naruto... Uh, you're welcome.
Making a bow, Temari walked off after Gaara, the last one left was Kankuro and making a smirk turned to the youngest of them.
Kankuro... Hey, Ribbon, I hope you're not mad at me about the other day.
Konohamaru pouted his lips at such a question.
Konohamaru... No way, I'm not a girl to take offense!
Kankuro smirked at that answer and bowed to the guys and went to catch up with the others. But their sensei, Yashamaru, looking from afar at such an idyllic farewell, smiled blissfully.
Yashamaru's thoughts... This exam was not easy, but I'm glad it was held in Konoha. Thank you, Naruto-kun!
And here are the leaf genins and the child, just watching the sandmen depart. But behind them, a team from the cloud was approaching. Xi had become less stubborn after the head-bashing from the Raikage and didn't look down on the others. His teammates, on the other hand, haven't changed a bit. Xi extended his fist.
C... Yo, even though I lost, we put up a decent fight. I apologize for that act at the end.
Naruto responded with his fist.
Naruto... Yeah, that was quite a fight! And about the other one, don't sweat it.
See... Hopefully in the future, we'll do our fight again.
Naruto faltered rubbing the back of his head.
Naruto.. Uh, I guess.
Xi made a nod and withdrew towards the goal while his co-commanders simply waved to the genin of the sheet. Watching the backs of distant geninamen of cloud and sand. They reached Ichiraku and ordered their food.
Sasuke... Dobe, teach me the same thing, so that when I beat up my enemies, they say thank you and apologize.
Naruto jumped with laughter at Sasuke's request.
Naruto... Theme, you don't learn it, it comes with experience.
Konohamaru... Brother, those three you beat in the exam were the strongest genin of their villages. So you're the strongest genin of the three villages?
Naruto smirked at that remark.
Naruto... Konohamaru, strength doesn't depend on just defeating the strongest datebayo opponents. He who has learned his lesson from such duels is strong. They all had a chance to beat me, but their hardheadedness, underestimation and arrogance dragged them down.
Sasuke... Shh, so I was arrogant and underestimated my opponent?
Naruto let out a sigh of frustration.
Naruto... Arrogant, no, but underestimated it was. If you didn't get excited about winning early and didn't stand there when you realized he switched with a clone, you would have had a chance to win.
Sasuke scowled at the missed opportunity.
Sasuke... What about Lee, he lost to Gaara too, didn't he?
Naruto... His situation is different, he was just throwing too many extra-base hits, which left him exhausted. If he hit the right spot on his body a few times, even absolute protection and armor wouldn't save him. Especially he used the same technique twice, which is not good dantebayo.
Sasuke... Okay, so it turns out there's work to be done.
Naruto... There is always something to work on, I could have done things differently too. Maybe he wouldn't have gone to the hospital, what can you do now?
Konohamaru... But you two are so strong, I wish I could beat up my enemies like that.
The Genins just nodded at such praise.
Naruto... Nothing, the important thing is to remember to evolve. Who knows, maybe you'll achieve even greater results than Sasuke and I did.
Konohamaru was delighted at such an exclamation and extended his fist forward.
Konohamaru... You bet, believe me, you'll be proud of me!
Sasuke, looking at their idyll, was now convinced that blood ties didn't have to be blood ties.
Naruto.. Teme, and here's what I'm wondering, why didn't the cloud and sand ninjas return to their villages as soon as the final exam was over?
Sasuke... Uh, my brother told me they had some sort of experience exchange. I think the next chunin exam will be held either in cloud village or in the sand.
Naruto... Oh, I see.
When they had eaten, they left Ichiraku.
Naruto... All right, I'll come by your clan tonight.
Sasuke... Okay, I'll see you tonight.
Konohamaru... Bye, Brother Sasuke!
The blond and the small one walked off in the direction of the Sarutobi clan, leaving Sasuke in nostalgia.
Sasuke's thoughts... So carefree, I used to go like that a lot with Itachi when I was a kid. Okay, I gotta go, too.
Minato was sitting in his office after the funeral of the third when suddenly Fugaku walked in.
Fugaku.. Yo, Minato, everybody in business?
Minato... As you can see.
Fugaku sat down at the table across from Minato and relaxed.
Fugaku... Finally, all those guests are gone.
Minato... Yeah, sorry you had to beef up your patrol to keep order.
Fugaku... Yeah, it's hard to keep track of a crowd like that. But I think things will be back to normal soon.
Minato... Still, these weeks did not come easy, but we were able to organize drills between villages. This chunin exam was very fruitful.
Fugaku... Hmm, you can't argue with that! But it's not likely to be business as usual.
Fugaku uttered the last sentence with a wistfulness that didn't escape Minato's notice.
Minato... You're right, the third one himself has done a lot for our village.
Fugaku... Yeah, Minato, how about a drink tonight after the meeting?
Minato... Hmm, I don't mind, it's just that Jiraiya sensei called me to Yakinika.
Fugaku... Oh, so it won't be boring.
Just then there was a knock on their door and on hearing the permission, Shisui entered the office.
Shisui... Good afternoon, Hokage-sama, Fugaku dano!
Minato... Oh, Shisui kun, what brings you here?
Shisui submitted the form to the hokage and waited for a response. Minato reading the form began to look at Shisui in surprise.
Minato... Shisui kun, is this a joke?
Shisui... No, Hokage-sama, I want to become a traveler like Jiraiya-sama.
Fugaku himself was surprised at this turn of events and decided to read the form. As he read, Fugaku reading the sheet began to frown his eyebrows.
Fugaku... Shisui, I realize you have no obligation to the clan, but still, this is a serious statement...
Shisui realized that even if it was the decision of the third, there would still be difficulties.
Shisui... I understand your concerns, but I want to assure you that my loyalty to the village will not fade.
Minato... Hmm, what about Naruto, you're not going to abandon him at such a difficult moment, are you?
Shisui sighed at those words, but looked up.
Shisui... The Hokage herself, Naruto had been aware of this for quite some time. I'm sure he can handle the loss of the third.
Minato... Hmm, well, there's no choice, especially since you reported directly to him. And according to the document, he's the one who took your oath of office.
Shisui bowed to the two honorable ninja of Konoha and removed himself from the office.
Minato... Fugaku, I've been meaning to ask you for a long time, why doesn't Shisui have a commitment to the clan?
Fugaku sighed remembering the past days.
Fugaku... During the war, Shisui lost his parents too early. No one could afford to patronize him at that point. Only the third took on this responsibility. And the fact that he lives in the Uchiha neighborhood, that was his parents' house.
Minato... That's how, I wonder what motivated him to take such action.
Fugaku... Hmm, maybe the death of the third has also struck a blow to his heart and he wants to forget it that way.
Minato... It's kind of a mess.
Fugaku... Minato, you saw the order yourself, let's fulfill the will of the third.
Minato... All right. (chuckles)
Fugaku... And you'll have a chance to bond with Naruto.
Minato jumped at such a remark.
Minato... He has a better chance of bonding with your family than with ours. Itachi and Sasuke had become like family to him.
Fugaku... Hmm, what's stopping you from doing the same?
Minato... Might be worth a shot, but come on, time to get ready for the meeting.
Fugaku... All right, I'll finish up with the police and come back.
Close to 6 o'clock, the meeting began, where all the jonin mentors and elders were sitting. Fugaku was like the hokage's right hand man here.
Minato... So, the chunin exam this year was very fruitful. All our gennies performed creditably, although there were some hiccups in the second and third stages. At the end of the tournament, it is already clear who will be awarded the title of chunin. But here's the thing about the rest of us, any suggestions?
Everyone started arguing about who besides Naruto was going to be the chunin. Fugaku decided to give his opinion.
Fugaku... Chunin implies as the leader of the team. And it is mandatory for a leader to have strategic skills. Shikamaru Nara performed well in the fight and was able to make a sober assessment of the overall situation.
A lot of people were surprised that Fugaku didn't talk about Sasuke, but after thinking about it for a bit.
Kurenai... I think Fugaku dano is right, the Nara clan, specializes in analytics and building tactics and strategy.
Kushina.. I support it too, even though Shikamaru can't watch his tongue. But still knows how to think ahead.
The rest, however, simply confined themselves to acquiescence.
Minato... As for the others, I think they have some work to do. Well, I award the title of chunin to Shikamaru Nara and Naruto Uzumaki. I don't think anyone has any objections.
Homura and Koharu... There are objections!
Everyone was surprised at such an outcry, Minato frowned that the meeting wasn't going to go that smoothly.
Minato... And what do you disagree with?
Koharu... I don't agree with giving Uzumaki Naruto the title of chunin.
From such a statement came the misunderstanding of many.
Minato... Do you have an argument for that?
Koharu waved her fan and then folding began her argument.
Koharu... I agree that Uzumaki Naruto was not only able to make it to the finals, but win in them. But still, he was unwise to tell everyone the secret of being a jinchuriki. He was not allowed that kind of free rein.
Half the people present began to burrow at such arguments.
Minato... This secret belonged to him in particular and only he had the right to tell it.
Homura... Not really.
Minato... What do you mean?
Homura... The nine-tailed jinchuriki belongs to Konoha, I hope you haven't forgotten that?
Fugaku... What are you trying to say?
Homura... We've all decided that the jinchuriki will be indebted to the village and him alone. We have pledged not to reveal to anyone that he Naruto Uzumaki is a jinchuriki. Yes, in the past you failed to control about leaking information to adults and that's when confusion was sown. So we all had to keep a low profile among the youth so they wouldn't falter at the sight of a jinchuriki. Now there's no guarantee that it won't happen again. Naruto is overconfident and acted rashly. Especially since he doesn't count with anyone and does as he pleases.
Koharu... Yes, and his decision not to use the nine-tailed man's chakra reduces the strength of our village in many ways.
Minato couldn't bear to hit the table, and Kushina was ready to tear them apart.
Minato... That's enough!
The elders were surprised at such an exclamation, usually the fourth often listened to their opinions.
Minato... It's his decision not to use fox chakra and the fact that he told who he is, his choice.
Homura... Minato, you as Hokage should fulfill your position in the best interest of the village, not this boy. He's too young to make that kind of decision. Especially since he owes a lot to our village!
It was Kakashi himself who was outraged at being insulted so brazenly by his student.
Kakashi... And to what does he owe our village, may I ask?
Koharu... The village gave him a roof over his head, the means for sustenance and education.
Minato listening to all of this just couldn't believe he had listened to them before.
Minato... Everyone but the elders, get out of here!
After such a stern ogle, everyone walked out of the office tense and glared at those two elders. The Hokage put up a barrier against listening.
Minato... A roof over your head? He hasn't lived in that shack on the outskirts of the village that I personally destroyed since he was five years old. He lives in an apartment that he pays for himself out of his own money. Speaking of money, he hasn't gotten orphan's allowance since he was four. He worked from a young age to support himself and pay for his place of residence. So I'm going to ask the same question that my student did. What does my son owe to our village?
The elders from such details, no longer understood how to pull the strap on themselves.
Koharu... Strange, you didn't really care about your parentage before!
Minato was already barely restraining himself from coming at them immediately.
Minato... This is my biggest mistake in my life.
Homura... Hmm, so a lot of things have changed. But let me tell you, you're still the Hokage. It is your duty, as always, to act in the best interests of the village.
Minato decided to put them in their place.
Minato... Homura Sama, Koharu Sama, tell me, who are you to our village?
The elders were surprised at this question, but decided to answer.
Koharu... We are the Elders and your direct counselors.
Minato... Exactly, you are my advisors, your job is to advise. I have the final word. Naruto will become a chunin, period!
The counselor had nothing else to reply, but after thinking for a moment.
Homura... Minato, what about those who influenced the jinchuriki.
Minato was taken aback by such an exclamation.
Minato... Influenced?
Koharu... We mean those who went against the law that no one has the right to train jinchuriki without our consent. Hiruzen took a lot of liberties in raising him. And look what he grew up to be, a spoiled anarchist who counts for nothing and does whatever he wants. But it wasn't just the third one who broke this rule, we learned that Uchiha Shisui also had a hand in raising him. And now has influence over him, which is not good. He may have been acting in the interest of a third party, but still, the law is the law!
Minato... Law, what about those who raised their hands on the jinchuriki and talked trash? Do I have to lead the whole village to slaughter?
The elders decided to go all the way.
Homura... It doesn't matter, it happens to all jinchuriki. The main problem is that the jinchuriki is uncontrollable.
Minato though he was doing to end this conversation by ripping apart the two riled up elders, but it was still too risky.
Minato... And I don't need his complete obedience, the main thing is that he has loyalty to the village.
Kozaru, realizing she had nothing more to say, decided to go the other way.
Koharu... Still, I don't think giving a chunin is too inconsiderate. There were people from different villages sitting at the finale and what he told them all got him in trouble. Now everyone wants a jinchuriki. And with the receipt of the chunin, he can leave the village alone. He might just get kidnapped and get the fox out of him. And that would be an international scandal.
Minato listening to this argument couldn't help but agree with it, but still decided to stand his ground.
Minato... Naruto Uzumaki earned his chunin vest with sweat and blood!
The elders knew firsthand of their ruler's stubbornness and simply agreed, but with a condition.
Koharu... Okay, so be it, but still letting him go without an experienced jonin outside the village would be too inconsiderate.
Minato... Okay, I'll think about your offer.
Homura... Also, as I understand it, the fox was unable to take over the mind of the jinchuriki. I think we should tell him about your relationship to him so that...
Minato couldn't stand it anymore and moved towards them and grabbed them by the throat. From such a menacing gaze, the elders began to shake with fear.
Minato... Don't you dare, you hear me, don't you dare, the law applies to everyone, including you two. I'll decide when to tell him. If you two blab to anyone, I'll pull you out of the ground.
Minato placed the seals of the thunder god in the collarbones of the two elders and they just started shaking with fear. Minato put the two elders down and they began gulping for air with their mouths.
Minato... You two are my advisors, I have the final say, do I make myself clear?
Seeing the nod from the two elders, he simply removed the barrier.
Minato... You may go.
The elders stood up leisurely moving towards the exit. Five minutes ago, the jonin mentor and, with Fugaku sitting on the bench. Kushina was still trying to keep the shivers away as she remembered how the elders had spoken of her son. Kakashi was no less angered by such talk.
Kushina... Old farts, how dare they talk about him like that?
Kakashi... Fugaku-sama, why couldn't sensei shut those elders up?
Fugaku sighed in frustration, thinking about the whole situation.
Fugaku... If only it were that simple, the elders of the Fire Nation daimyo's inner circle. All the more reason for them to carry their weight in this village.
Asuma to take away the shivering had already yelled out a third cigarette.
Asuma... How did Dad ever put up with them?
Just then, two elders came out of the study, whom the jonin escorted out with an angry look. And Kushina broke off to hit them altogether, but Fugaku put his hand on her shoulder and shook his head. Minato was still standing in the office and glaring at the door the elders came out through, he angrily threw down everything on the desk.
Minato's thoughts... Damn old people, what an idiot I was to listen to them back then. All right, I gotta warn the others.
Minato stepped out of the office and turned to the jonin.
Minato... Uzumaki Naruto and Nara Shikamaru are now sheet chunin! This is the final decision! You're free to go!
Gai, Kurenai and Gai decided to leave the scene so as not to make things worse. But Fugaku, Kakashi, and Kushina decided to stop by to get some details. But upon entering the office they learned that there was no sign of a calm conversation at all.
Kushina... Honey, what's wrong?
Minato sat down at a chair and Kakashi decided to waste no time and just started packing.
Minato... It's like I said, Naruto gets a chunin. But telling the villagers about his status as a jinchuriki could get him in trouble, and I don't think it's a good idea to let him leave the village alone without you, Kakashi.
Everyone began to think hard about this decision and came to the conclusion that it was the right thing to do.
Kakashi... Okay sensei, although Naruto had left the village alone before, not many people knew he was a jinchuriki then.
Kushina... I hope Naruto understands everything.
Fugaku... He's obligated, especially since he knew what he was getting into when he decided to reveal himself.
Kushina... Okay, I think we should go, it's been a long day.
The Hokage remembered that he had promised to sit around after work and decided to excuse himself.
Minato... Honey, I'm gonna be here for a while. You go ahead. I'll come back later.
Kushina nodded understandingly and left the office. Fugaku, on the other hand, decided to add a drinking buddy.
Fugaku... Kakashi, Minato and I decided to hang out after the meeting, would you care to join us?
Kakashi didn't mind, after all, this hard day wouldn't just end with the expense of going home.
Kakashi.. Mma, I don't mind.
When the office was cleaned up, everyone headed towards the restaurant. Meanwhile, the elders had recovered from the ki that Minato had punched them with.
Homura... Damn boy, he was out of line.
Koharu... And we didn't realize the jinchuriki wouldn't be as easy as it looks.
Homura... Hiruzen for you, even after your death, you can still put sticks in your wheels.
Koharu... Homura, it's very risky to act in the open right now. Especially don't forget, the Fourth has put a seal on us and can visit us at any moment. All the more reason he's right, the law applies to us too.
Homura... All right, we'll see what happens next.
Koharu... I think it's worth a look at our jinchuriki.
Homura... It's worth it.
They left with unkind thoughts to their palace southwest of the fire country. Meanwhile, Minato, Kakashi, and Fugaku had already arrived at Yakinika, where Jiraiya was already waiting for them. Jiraiya seeing the slumped and somewhat annoyed look on his face decided to inquire.
Jiraiya... I understand we're having a wake for old man three today. But what's with the grimaces?
Minato... I think we'll need a drink first! Yeah, and we could use a separate booth.
Everyone sat down at a table and ordered barbecue, cold appetizers, and a bottle of sake. Taking a drink each, Minato decided to fill them in on how the conversation with the elders was going. As the conversation progressed, he had to refresh his cup.
Minato... That's the way it is.
Fugaku... I see, so Shisui leaving the village will be an extremely good move. Still, the third man was able to foresee this state of affairs.
Minato... If the elders were to harm him in any way, it was unlikely that Naruto would sit idly by.
Kakashi... I wondered why the elders had only now decided to take an interest in Naruto's life.
Everyone was stumped by this question except one.
Jiraiya... It's all because of old man three, my sensei kept them in line. And now that he's gone, they've gone off the rails.
Minato... Oh, I see, what a bunch of old geezers. All right, let's drink to the peace of the third man's soul.
Jiraiya... Cheers!
Everyone clinked their glasses and drank their drink and started talking about their everyday life. As suddenly Minato felt a very familiar chakra and he looked at the entrance of the restaurant where four young men were walking in. Itachi, Shisui, Naruto and Sasuke.
Minato... Wow, Fugaku, you didn't tell me you called your kids.
Fugaku also took a closer look at the company and issued a reply.
Fugaku... I didn't call them. I think they decided to have a send-off, too.
Minato... All right, let them sit.
The Uchiha and Uzumaki, seated three booths away from the adults, ordered dango for Itachi and Shisui, tomato salad for Sasuke, and meat for Naruto.
Naruto... By the way, Itachi, Sasuke. Fugaku-sama, Hokage-sama, Kakashi sensei, and erosanin sit three booths away from us dattebayo.
The Uchiha brothers were surprised at such company and began to be perplexed.
Itachi... Looks like dad's taking it easy, and mom's gonna kick his ass.
Sasuke... That's for sure.
Shisui... Okay, that's their business.
Naruto... Definitely dattebayo! Brother Shisui, you're leaving the village tomorrow morning, right?
Shisui... Yes, Otto, you'll see me out.
Itachi... You betcha!
There were a lot of people in the establishment today, as there were many who wanted to memorialize the deceased third hokage. They didn't sit for long, Shisui finishing his dango.
Shisui... Well, I gotta go, Otto, can you help me pack? I don't want to be messing around in the morning.
Naruto sipped his tea.
Naruto.. Okay bro, you guys coming?
Sasuke and Itachi still took their eyes off their father.
Itachi... No, you go ahead, we'll wait for my father, I'm afraid he won't make it home in his condition.
Sasuke... My mom's hand is heavy, if she sees my dad in that condition, she'll definitely send him to the hospital.
Shisui and Naruto decided to dispense with the details and waved and paraded off the establishment. Walking past the streets, Naruto decided to ask some questions that interested him.
Naruto... Brother, will you come back to visit us again?
Shisui sighed in annoyance that this topic would have to be brought up after all.
Shisui... Ototo, I'm sorry, but it's snowing in the village, changes are coming. I don't think I'll be able to visit you anytime soon. But, you can visit me, you won the tournament and with getting the rank of chunin. You'll be able to leave the village alone.
Naruto sighed in frustration.
Naruto.. I hope so.
Shisui seeing the blond man's depressed state decided to cheer him up by patting his hair.
Shisui... Come on, it's not like we're saying goodbye forever.
Naruto... I hope brother Shisui, do you think I can do it?
Shisui... I'm sure.
They went into the house and started going through their things for departure. Shisui decided to wrap polyethylene around all the furniture. Naruto's clones, on the other hand, were helping him with that. Toward the end, they sat down on the couch sighing at the fact that they were over so quickly.
Naruto... Bro, what are you going to do with the house?
Shisui looked around his chambers.
Shisui... This house is the only thing my parents left me. I'll still come here from time to time.
Naruto... Right, well, come on, it's too late, I'll be waiting for you at the north gate tomorrow morning.
Shisui... All right!
With a clenched fist, the blond left the house and began walking around the village, enjoying the evening breeze. On the way, he spotted Sasuke and Itachi, who were waterboarding their father. He decided not to interfere with their occupation and just walked on. At this time in Yakiniku, Jiraiya had overdosed on alcohol and passed out on the spot. Kakashi and Minato were more less adequate, but still their necks were red from alcohol.
Minato... Oh, geez, sensei's as usual, Kakashi, can you walk him to the hotel?
Kakashi sighed at the hard work, and began to pile the sled on top of him.
Kakashi... Mma, sensei, where does he live?
Minato... At the hotel, the front desk should tell you his room number.
Kakashi began to weave a sanyin behind him before exiting. Minato had a couple drinks, paid the waitress and headed out. Today was an extremely hard day for Minato, the funeral of the third, hearing from the elders about his son. In the aftermath, he even overdid it with alcohol. Naruto walked past the streets and spotted a fourth man weaving his way home, shuffling from foot to foot. Naruto walked over to him and gave him a concerned look.
Naruto... Hokage-sama, are you all right?
Minato hiccupped at the sight of his son, but using the rest of his strength he squeezed out the words.
Minato... Oh, Naruto, why aren't you home?
After saying that, he fell on the younger blond. Naruto somehow managed to pick it up and shrieked at the smell of alcohol.
Naruto... Duttebayo, why now? Okay, kage bunshin no jutsu!
After creating a clone, they took Minato's hands and walked towards Namikaze's house.
Naruto... Oof, heavy, xoo, good thing everyone's asleep now.
As he approached the porch, he knocked on the door and waited. Surprisingly the door was opened quickly.
Kushina... You white-haired bastard, where do you go?
Snap and he got hit on the exposed block with a frying pan.
Naruto... Itae, Kushina san, it hurts!
The woman came to her senses and was horrified to find herself slapping her son on the arm.
Kushina... Oh, sorry Naruto-kun, I thought it was.
Minato, from his son's yell, woke up for a few moments.
Minato... Eek, oh, honey, I'm sorry I took too long. Oops,
Minato threw up on Naruto's orange vest and passed out from the overload. Naruto didn't know what to say, but grumbled at the smell of vomit.
Naruto... Eww, what a nuisance!
Kushina looked at her stoned husband, just made a facepalm.
Kushina... Minato damn you!
Kushina's thoughts... Oh my god, I'm so embarrassed in front of Naruto, I punched him too! And Minato threw up on him in general.
Naruto... Uh, Kushina san, why don't you let me in, I'm kind of in a hurry dantebayo.
Kushina... Oh, I'm sorry, let me help you!
Together they made it to the living room where they laid Minato down on the couch. Naruto pulled off his vest and wrapped it up in a ball.
Naruto... Well, I guess I should go, goodbye, Kushina san!
Kushina thought back to her son's injured arm.
Kushina... Wait, give me your hand.
Naruto... Uh, it'll be fine. It'll heal by morning.
Kushina looked at her son with a stern look.
Kushina... Give me your hand.
Naruto had long known of her temper and decided not to argue. Kushina began to heal the bruise on her arm left by the frying pan. Naruto began to look around the spacious living room. Last time he'd only been in the hallway and kitchen, but he hadn't been able to see the main attraction of this house. Paintings and photographs of the Namikaze family were hung in the living room. There were also some decorative elements, in the form of vases, figurines and other knick-knacks.
Naruto... It's so beautiful here!
Kushina still not moving away from the blond man's treatment looked around.
Kushina... Yeah, you're right, I was setting it up myself.
Naruto... Heehee, you have taste.
Kushina simply smiled at such flattery and finished with her treatment and ruffled the blond man's hair.
Kushina... Thank you, and I also want to thank you for bringing my husband.
Naruto scratched the back of his head shyly smiling out of habit.
Naruto... Yeah, you're welcome, especially since you've done so much datebayo for me too!
Kushina's thoughts... Eh, he's so kind and bright. And his chakra when he relaxes is so soothing. We should.
Naruto... Well, I gotta go, I have errands to run tomorrow morning.
Kushina's thoughts... There he goes again, what's his habit of avoiding us.
Kushina... Uh, it's getting late, so why don't you stay the night? And I could wash your clothes, too.
Naruto waved off such a suggestion with a shy smile.
Naruto... Uh, no, I shouldn't, and I don't like to overstay my welcome. And I can wash my own clothes. You don't have to wait for your dantebayo in the morning.
Kushina was already inwardly ready to tear up anything and everything from Naruto being so polite.
Kushina.. Oh, well, come on, I'll walk you out. Just leave the clothes on, it's Minato's fault they're soiled.
Naruto had nothing to do but hand over his clothes, she wouldn't let go anyway.
Kushina... You wait here, I'll be right back.
Naruto... All right. (chuckles)
Kushina went to the second floor and threw the blond's clothes into a basin, then went to the room where she searched hard for something.
Kushina's thoughts... Oh, I hope this one works.
Turning back to Naruto she handed him a white sweatshirt with black lines on the arm and a hoodie on the back.
Kushina... Here, put this on, or you might catch a cold.
Naruto... Don't be, I'm not cold.
Kushina's thoughts... Damn it, why is he so disobedient!
Kushina... I said put it on!
Naruto... Uh, all right!
Naruto put on his sweatpants and straightened up to his full height, it was a little bigger than it needed to be. Kushina, on the other hand, was delighted, and if it weren't for the tendrils on his neck, he'd be like Minato.
Naruto... Uh, I daresay it belongs to the Hokage herself. I hope he doesn't get upset.
Kushina... You don't have to worry about that.
Looking at the older copy of the blond, who by the way was brazenly snoring like that, then they laughed quietly into their fist so as not to wake Miroku.
Naruto walked up to the exit of the living room and stared at the portrait of little Kushina and Minato, and behind them stood a middle-aged woman with bangs like Kushina's, but the hair at the back of her head was tied back in a ponytail. Kushina noticed the blond man's stare.
Naruto... Hehehe, and you haven't changed since then, still just as happy Kushina san. How old were you then?
Kushina... Let me see, 13 years old. I mean, we were almost the same age back then.
Naruto... Heehee, I'm only going to be 12 in a month.
Kushina remembered that it was already fall and Naruto's birthday was approaching soon.
Kushina's thoughts... We should cook something, maybe call him home. Okay, there's still time...
Naruto looked up at the woman who was glowing with happiness holding the two young ninjas.
Naruto... Who's that woman in the background?
Kushina... Oh, you mean her, she's our aunt, although to tell you the truth. She's my aunt, but she was no less family to Minato than she was to me.
Naruto... I hear you. The ties don't have to be blood ties.
Kushina... Oh, that's a good point.
Naruto... Eh, well, come on, I gotta go.
They reached the hallway, Naruto put on his sandals and walked out onto the porch and saluted the woman.
Naruto... Goodbye, Kushina san!
Kushina once again failed miserably at not being able to keep Naruto at her house longer.
Kushina's thoughts... Eh, he's gone again, okay, I'll have to give Minato a good workout in the morning.
Early in the morning, Minato woke up to sunlight shining directly into his eyes. Blinking at this light, he turned his gaze to his right, where his wife sat crossing her arms and looking disgruntled.
Minato... Oh, honey, my head is pounding.
Kushina... Well, she wouldn't be, you alkie.
Minato squeezed his eyes shut, trying to remember last night.
Minato... Wait, I left the restaurant all alone. How did I end up here?
Kushina... Oh, that's a very interesting story.
Minato... Is there anything for the head?
Kushina... Of course you do, I've even prepared a cup of pills for you. Except you'll get it after you hear me out.
From such a condition, Minato gritted his teeth with a grit in his teeth and hissed.
Minato... Tyrant!
Kushina began to tilt the glass of water down letting her know she would pour the water out.
Kushina... What did you say?
Minato only now realized what he had just said and folded his arms in apology.
Minato... I'm sorry, honey, I misspoke.
Kushina... Same thing. So listen. Naruto brought you in drunk in the middle of the night last night.
Minato cringed at this news, for he had never even shown his daughter me like this.
Minato... What? Naruto saw me drunk?
Kushina... Not that he saw you, he almost carried you for five blocks with the help of a clone. But that's the most harmless thing that could happen.
Minato... Oh, it couldn't be worse...
Kushina... No, my dear, it was worse when you threw up on it.
Minato was shocked and looked at his wife in disbelief.
Minato... Kushina, tell me it's a scam!
Kushina pulled an orange vest out of the bag and Minato recognized the garment instantly. He put his hands to his face and with universal shame.
Minato... What a shame!
Kushina... I was up half the night cleaning up all that crap you put on him.
Minato... Oof, I hope that's it?
Kushina... Lucky for you, yes! Minato, you know you can't drink, your max is three choco sake.
Minato took the pill and dipped it into the glass, and then took a pedlen gulp and, began to drink.
Minato... Honey, what day of the week is it?
Kushina... Thursday, why?
Minato lowered his gaze from the fact that today wasn't a day off.
Minato... God, all is not well, today I have to hand Naruto and Shikamaru their chunin vests.
Kushina... Except, Naruto will need his orange vest back.
Minato... Kushina, why don't you go to work for me today?
Kushina... Oh no, you're sneaky, by the way, I gave him your clothes that you wore when you were a genin.
Minato... Oh, my clothes?
Kushina... Yeah, well, he can't be freezing in a T-shirt at night!
Minato. Uh, all right.
Kushina... Okay, come to your senses, breakfast will be ready soon.
Minato was left pondering on how he would look his son in the eye, after last night's farce. At this time, Naruto was standing at the north gate already wearing his spare orange vest. And standing beside them were the Uchiha brothers who had conditioned themselves to conduct Shisui.
Naruto... By the way, how did you get home last night?
Sasuke prayed from the memories, but Itachi stood there showing no emotion.
Itachi... It was awful.
Sasuke... Mom waited for us out front and now Dad is lying with his head bandaged.
Itachi... We've been through a lot ourselves.
Itachi rubbed the bruise on the back of his head, but Sasuke stood with red ears.
Naruto's thoughts... I know the situation.
Naruto... Are all mothers like that, Shikamaru complained about his mom too. Said she was scarier than death if you pissed her off.
Sasuke... Yeah, I think that's it.
Naruto... By the way, you and Shisui are from the same neighborhood, so why didn't you come with him?
Itachi... My mom decided to mess with my dad's head and we just walked away. And Shisui negotiated something with the Konoha police and told us to wait here. Oh, there he is.
Shisui approached the gate with his backpack on his back, but the banana leaf he was wearing was missing.
Shisui... Uh, thanks for seeing me off.
Sasuke... Good luck on your journey, Shisui!
Shisui put his hand up to the younger brunet.
Shisui... Thank you, Sasuke!
Shisui stood in front of Naruto and extended his fist.
Shisui... Promise me you'll visit me!
Naruto responded with a fist.
Naruto... Promise to take care of yourself and say hi to Akemi and everyone else.
Shisui... All right!
Itachi... Shisui, I'll walk you to the exit.
Shisui... All right, happy holidays, guys!
The two older Uchiha walked out of the gate and decided to discuss some nuances on the way.
Itachi... Shisui, shall we keep in touch as usual?
Shisui... Yes, Kawarama herself will give you the mission.
Itachi... What about the fact that I'm not allowed to leave Konoha? It's not like I can take the oath of office like you.
Shisui... You won't need it. Kawarama herself will send a mission request to the hokage personally, but with a different recipient, and in addition there will be the name of the executor of the mission, i.e. yours.
Itachi... Hmm, it's going to be a lot of trouble indeed. By the way, you said there's gonna be changes in snow village, you know?
Shisui... Unfortunately it's just lip service for now, but if all goes well, they will resume work with Konoha. I don't know all the details, so we'll wait to see what happens next.
Itachi... Well, it's still a turbulent time, even though there's no war. I think it's too early for them to reveal themselves.
Shisui... Exactly, okay, my friend, I gotta go. As usual send or wait for the raven.
Itachi... Okay, good luck.
Naruto and Sasuke were walking around the village at this time looking at the village that had just woken up. Everyone was swarming around opening their shops and cafes.
Sasuke... Dobe, you often talk about some snow country and your brother often disappears there, as does Shisui.
Naruto... I'm sorry Sasuke, this secret doesn't belong to us and especially no matter how much we want to, we still can't tell.
Sasuke realized that there was nothing to catch and sighed in hopelessness.
Sasuke... Okay, what now?
Naruto... Well, I first have to go get Grandma Tsunade's permission that I'm fully cured so I can do the missions. After that, I can finally get rid of those nasty pills I had to take.
Sasuke remembered those stinking pills and shuddered at the memory.
Sasuke... Shh, how did you even take them.
Naruto.. And I had no choice, thank you bro Shisui and Kushina san.
Sasuke... Uh, okay, well, I thought the messengers told us to gather at the residence for all the genii, 3:00 in the afternoon.
Naruto... Good, I'll be able to get to the hospital just in time. Meet me at the residence.
Sasuke... Okay, I'm gonna do something to keep myself busy, too.
They went their separate ways, Naruto heading towards the hospital as the ball had agreed. On the way, he decided to ponder his current situation. He was certainly saddened to realize that Shisui would rarely come to Konoha now. After all, Shisui was a pillar and support for him. No, he didn't feel abandoned. Since he himself realized that he couldn't be under Shisui's care forever. He wasn't worried about Shisui either, for the village of snow was the most protected and the furthest from conflict among the five great villages. Sighing, with cheerful thoughts, he made his way up to the third floor, straight to the head doctor of the hospital. After standing in line for a few minutes, he walked into the office tentatively with a knock.
Naruto... Hi Granny Tsunade, how are you?
For Tsunade, in some ways, the blond man was a nightmare. After all, it was only after talking to this pushy child that she often became furious. After examining the impossibly pretty blond man, she sighed tiredly.
Tsunade... What is it this time?
Naruto... Grandma, I'd like to get a form from you stating that I've completed the entire Dantebayo treatment.
Tsunade... Oh, okay.
She started going through the paperwork and rereading all the tests and symptoms, she noticed a very important thing.
Tsunade... Naruto, you were only in the hospital for a week and the other four days you were on home treatment. And for a full course of treatment, you need to spend at least two weeks. So come back in three days.
Naruto didn't even realize what she meant.
Naruto... What, in three days? I'm healthy as a bull, what's three more days? I've got missions to go on!
Tsunade shrugged off such a question.
Tsunade... Those are the rules.
Naruto was just starting to boil over from such hospital bureaucracy.
Naruto... Who made up these stupid rules?
Tsunade... Well, I am, why?
Naruto took it as a joke and put the form on the table.
Naruto... You, Granny Tsunade, enough of the shenanigans, sign it.
Tsunade.. No!
Naruto... We're not strangers, Grandma, please sign the dattebayo!
The head doctor was beginning to boil at the blond's insistence.
Tsunade... What an impossible child. Naruto, before I came here. There was anarchy here, I created a set of these rules so that there would be discipline.
Naruto... But Grandma Tsunade, what am I going to do for those three days?
Tsunade... I don't need to know. Read a book on good manners. You're gonna need it, so here, I got it for you.
Naruto unfolded the book and like a scalded man closed it back up and squeezed his eyes shut.
Naruto... Ew, that's disgusting. I'm allergic to it.
Tsunade's thoughts... Oh, look how shady he is.
Tsunade... I told you to come back in three days, that's it, don't bother me. I've got work to do.
Naruto looked at her with serious eyes, as did Tsunade.
Naruto... So you won't sign it?
Tsunade... No.!
Naruto... All right, see you again Granny Tsunade dantebayo!
He turned around and swung the door open and slammed it shut with anger.
Tsunade's thoughts... Hmm, you better watch out, or that little guy's gonna do something else.
Naruto was working out a plan on how he would get a signature. Finding a photocopier, he decided to copy some permission slips and just walked back in through to her, but under Shizune's henge.
Henge Shizune... Tsunade herself, I brought you the reports. I've already checked them out, all that's left to do is sign them.
Naruto's thoughts... That much paperwork, she's not gonna check it.
Tsunade, on the other hand, lowered her head tiredly.
Tsunade... What's wrong with you two, one needs my signature, the other needs mine. All right, give it to me.
Henge Shizune placed a stack of papers in front of her, and Tsunade began to sign them.
Naruto's thoughts... Yay, you got the wrong granny!
Tsunade... By the way, how's Tonton, you said he wasn't feeling well?
Naruto started to get nervous from such a question and rubbed the back of his head.
Naruto's thoughts... Xoo, what pain can a piggy have, it just eats. Wait, maybe that's what this is about.
Henge Shizune... Yeah, everything seems to be back to normal. His tummy doesn't hurt anymore.
Tsunade broke the pencil in half at that moment and looked at Shizune with squinted eyes.
Tsunade... Stomach pains, you were talking about your paw.
Henge Shizune... Yeah, sorry, I misspoke. Paws, definitely paws.
Tsunade... Something's not right here!
She looked at the forms that were already half signed.
Tsunade... What, mission authorization? Naruto, you bastard.
The real Shizune walked through the door and just couldn't understand why another person under Shizune's appearance was here.
Shizune... Tsunade herself, what's going on here?
Naruto... Hello!
Naruto took off his Henge and tried to grab the slip, but Tsunade just squeezed all the slips into a lump and wiped them into ashes.
Tsunade... Nice try, but no.
With those words, she grabbed the blond man by the scruff of his neck and threw him out the window. Naruto shook off the dust and rubbed his heel and raised his hands in the air.
Naruto... I'll still get my signature datebayo!
Tsunade... Dream on, dream on, you said three days, so it's three days! What a little parasite.
Naruto... All right, if that witch won't sign, I'll make her!
A few minutes later, Tsunade received a picture of Naruto with Tonton, with the blond man holding a kunai to the pig's throat. But on the back of the sheet was a note.
Naruto's entry. Sign it and the piggy won't get hurt.
Tsunade... Ha, no way, Tonton has a mole on his paw. He's got a lot of tenacity. Shizune, send this sheet back to the addressee.
Shizune... Tsunade herself, why don't you sign it? He won't let go.
Tsunade... No, I'm gonna put that kid in his place! He's not the only one with Uzumaki blood running through him, I'm not going to give up either!
Shizune... Oh, you're such a baby.
Naruto got a response and decided to keep up the pressure and just kept sending out trick after trick.
Naruto... You want to play, except in games you often have zero chance granny!
Tsunade had already started checking all the gifts, and had even gotten paranoid.
Tsunade... It's impossible, nothing, I just have to endure these three days.
Tsunade decided to take a walk at recess but was met by little girls.
1... Oh, that's one of the legendary leaf sledders.
2... Yeah, that's right, she's an irienin of the highest caliber.
3... Tsunade herself, when I grow up, I want to be as strong as you! Can I have your autograph?
Tsunade smirked at the fact that this village had her groupies.
Tsunade... Why not, sweetheart?
One of the girls handed her a clipboard with a blank sheet of paper.
3... Can you sign right here?
Tsunade was surprised that the location of the signature mattered.
Tsunade... Why here? The sheet is completely blank!
3... Uh, it's so I can capture the moment.
Tsunade took the clipboard and rubbed the signature spot and by the feel of it, there was a small pothole.
3... Tsunade herself, what are you doing?
Tsunade... Nothing...
She started scraping the signature spot with her fingernails and it turned out to be a sticker. She peeled the sticker off completely and saw what had been haunting her all day today.
Tsunade... You bastard, he won't even leave me alone here. Sweetie, tell me, who gave you that tablet?
The girl faltered at this point and simply pointed to the roof.
3... That boy over there gave it to me, said if we got your signature, he'd buy us ice cream.
Tsunade looked up at the roof and noticed an orange sweatshirt and yellow hair there behind a chimney. She didn't take long to toss the form in there so that it cut the pipe in half and a little wisp of blonde hair. Grinning at the fact that Naruto was starting to shake, she turned back to the girl who was very scared.
Tsunade... Sweetie, you shouldn't trust any scoundrel, especially this idiot.
The girls became visibly saddened and left the scene of action.
Tsunade... What a trickster, and his tricks are getting trickier and trickier.
Naruto jumped off the roof and met up with the girls and still treated them to ice cream for their efforts. He went home to get Minato's gym clothes, because it had been a while and it was time to go to the meeting.
Naruto.. It's okay, it's not over yet, I'll get my signature!
On the rooftop of the residence, all the sheet genins gathered with their mentors.
Kiba... I wonder who's gonna get the title of chunin.
Eno. Well, it makes sense, Naruto won the finals, so he'll take the title.
Kiba... Well, if he can beat me, he should get the vest.
Everyone looked at him like he was an idiot, because Kiba's boasting was getting annoying.
Shikamaru... It's so stressful, they could have just called him, why bother us?
Ino... Xoo, you're as lazy as ever.
Naruto... Ino, trust me, he has a competitor and he's standing right behind me.
Kakashi remembered that the blond was referring to him specifically and tried to believe the backlash. But here Kushina's stern look tempered his ardor.
Kakashi... Mma, how funny, haha.
Sakura... It's your own fault Sensei, if you'd come on time and train us.
Sasuke... Exactly!
Kakashi... What, you too, I've been helping you prepare for stage three for a month.
Sasuke... What, you've only been here three times in a month and then you said a few words and went back to reading your book. I'm even surprised how I learned the Chidori technique.
Naruto... Admit it sensei, you're lazy!
Kakashi sighed in annoyance, but the other genin laughed quietly into his fist.
Kakashi's thoughts... Yeah, I've got a great team and everyone's just trying to humiliate me. Who was it that wanted to switch.
Kakashi... Hey, Sensei's coming!
Minato was still ashamed to look into his son's eyes, for yesterday's farce. He folded his hands behind his back. Of course he was still looking away from his son, but he took a full breath.
Minato... Okay, guys, these last two months have not been easy. But still you showed your skills and you all managed to reach the qualifying stage, which is very good. This exam has gone down in history as the grandest event ever staged at the sheet. As for the rank of chunin, I'll tell you right away, only two people got them. But you don't despair, you can try again, next year, but in the meantime, gain experience.
Everyone began to wonder who Naruto had gotten the vest.
Minato... Before I announce the newly minted Chunins, I want to tell you some important things. Chunin must be a leader and exhibit strategic skills. After all, they will have a great responsibility for their comrades. So, the first one to get a chunin is Nara Shikamaru! Please step into the middle. Shikamaru walked out to the hokage and put on his chunin vest.
Minato... Shikamaru showed great analytical skills and tactical skills. Which, for a leader, would be a very good fit. And now for the second winner, it is of course Uzumaki Naruto! He showed his will to win, and his strategic skills were in no way inferior to Shikamaru's. Come out to us, Naruto-kun.
Naruto left the bag with Sakura and stood next to Shikamaru and picked up his vest.
Minato... Wear your title with pride and be an example to the rest of your comrades.
Naruto... Bingo!
Shikamaru... All right!
Minato was proud to award his son this title personally, but was still tense around him.
Minato... Okay, the award ceremony is over, you can go now. Naruto-kun, I'm going to ask you to come to my office.
Naruto... Uh, all right.
Kushina noticed the faded look in her girls eyes and decided to cheer her up.
Kushina... That's okay, girls, you'll definitely make it next time.
Miroku... It's bound to work.
Karin... Yeah, I'm sick of walking around in genes.
Inami, on the other hand, made a nod and just watched Naruto.
Inami's thoughts... Naruto kun became a chunin already, he deserved it!
All the genin started congratulating Shikamaru and Naruto clapping on his shoulder. Naruto wasted no time taking the bag from Sakura and followed the hokage. Once they were in the office, Minato decided to start from afar, his difficult conversation.
Minato... Congratulations on becoming a chunin, you've earned it more than anyone else.
Naruto... Thank you Hokage herself.
Pausing, Minato decided to start the hard part of the conversation.
Minato... Unfortunately, not all privileges are available to you yet.
Naruto... Uh, perks?
Minato... Yes, I realize you've had to admit to being a jinchuriki to some extent. But it has led to other consequences. You unfortunately told exactly in the arena where there were ninjas from other countries. It can get you in trouble and outside the village, you can be attacked. And the fact that you won this tournament made you famous. Which further increases the danger.
Naruto realized what the Hokage was getting at and decided to ask about an important thing he was interested in.
Naruto... So I can't leave the village alone?
Minato noticed his son's sad intonation.
Minato... Yes. If you get a mission more difficult than Rank C, it's mandatory that you have a jonin with you. And so for the three of you, I'll be giving more C rank missions.
Naruto's thoughts... So I can't go to snow country just yet.
Naruto... Okay, Hokage herself, I understand my situation. I don't have a choice anyway.
Minato was glad that Naruto could understand such things after all. But now came the hardest part of the conversation.
Minato... Great, I also wanted to apologize for yesterday.
Naruto... Yesterday?
Minato started nervously going over the words with a silly smirk.
Minato... I realize that what I did yesterday was not the best thing for a ruler, but rather a terrible thing. Thanks for driving me home, by the way. But I'm sorry I ruined your clothes!
On the last word, he sighed with relief that he could talk. And Naruto began to remember last night.
Naruto... Oh, I remember, it's okay, everyone makes mistakes, don't worry about it.
Minato... Are you sure?
Naruto... So what if it was unfortunate, the main thing is that everyone is alive and well. By the way, I wanted to return your thing.
Naruto pulled a white gym shirt from the bag and placed it on the table.
Naruto... I know it's not good to take other people's stuff, but Kushina san insisted on it.
Minato picked up his gym clothes and fell into nostalgia.
Minato... It's okay, I don't mind anyway. I wanted to give you your clothes back, too.
He pulled a neatly folded roll of orange ticket from the cabinet and handed it to Naruto.
Naruto... By the way, can I not wear a chunin vest?
Minato was surprised at the request, but remembering that Naruto only respected the color orange, he simply nodded.
Minato. All right, have it your way!
Naruto... Thank you.
Naruto folded the chunin's vest like his orange one into a bag. But he also had unfinished business.
Naruto... By the way, I was wondering if you could talk to Grandma Tsunade to get her to sign off on my mission clearance?
Minato just lowered his eyes guiltily at such a request.
Minato. I'm sorry, I know you're anxious to get back to normal, but I can't send ninjas on a mission. Who are completely untreated. Once Tsunade herself signs your authorization, you can get down to business right away.
Naruto sighed in frustration that such an issue couldn't be resolved through the hokage.
Naruto... Eh, that didn't work out either. Hokage-sama, and you only need Tsunade-sama's signature, right?
Minato... Yes.
Naruto... Okay, I'll be right back, I'll have to go to extreme measures!
Minato... Uh, extreme measures?
Naruto... Yes!
Naruto left the office with determined steps, but Minato was starting to worry.
Minato... Naruto won't let up, I hope nothing bad happens.
Naruto was going to the extreme and without knocking on the door he entered the head doctor's office. Tsunade looked at the blond man with a serious look as serious as himself. The battle of glances continued for a few moments, Naruto simply placed the resolution on her desk.
Tsunade... It's useless, I won't sign anyway!
Naruto... Uh, you've forced me to go to extreme measures.
Naruto headed towards the bookshelf and pulled out a trick book from there.
Naruto... Last warning, Grandma Tsunade!
Naruto shook the bottle of sake through the air. It was the weakest point of the sled, almost the holy of holies. Tsunade crossed her fingers to her chin, still showing that she wouldn't be understood by that.
Tsunade... What are you going to do, you're not going to drink?
Naruto headed over to the sink and uncorked the bottle and began pouring sake into the sink in a thin stream. Tsunade though tried not to show any emotion, but there was a hurricane inside her.
Tsunade's thoughts... Oh, what a sneak, if I hit you, I lose. Damn, there's half of it left! Tsunade, don't let that boy fool you!
Minato, meanwhile, was climbing the stairs.
Minato's thoughts... Eh, it's still worth talking to Tsunade. Otherwise, Naruto might get in trouble.
Naruto was still pouring out the sake with a blank face when he suddenly noticed a presence behind him.
Yes, Tsunade grabbed the blond by the scruff of his neck and threw him out the door so that Naruto was sealed against the wall.
Tsunade... You owe me a bottle of sake, you little punk.
Minato didn't know what to do when he saw his son pinned on the wall and Ki coming from the head doctor's office.
Minato... Oh, no, I'm too late!
Naruto peeled off the wall and raised his fist upward.
Naruto... That's your problem, you old alcoholic! If you'd signed the authorization, this wouldn't have happened.
Smack, a clipboard flew into the younger blond's face with a bank of permission slips. Tsunade cringed at the doorknob and glared angrily.
Tsunade... You better pray you don't get in here again, you parasite.
After saying that, she slammed the door so hard it almost cracked. Minato walked over to his son, a concerned look on his face.
Minato... Naruto, are you all right?
Naruto peeled the clipboard away from him and looked closely at the form and showed it to Minato.
Naruto... In full, I now have my authorization!
Minato took a closer look at the document, and there was indeed a sanin's signature.
Minato... Eh, and determination is your thing, I wonder how you got her to do that?
Naruto... I hit granny's weakest spot, which is alcohol!
Minato had heard of Sanin's passion for strong drink and simply sympathized with her.
Tsunade... Get outta here!
That shout caused the two blondes to run away from the scene at a breakneck pace.