I don't own Naruto or One Piece.
Previously on Naruto: The Second Kaido.
Chapter 4 Recap:
The newly formed team reaches Tazuna's home, and the diverse village symbols on their headbands pique reveals the circumstances surrounding the mission's cancellation and Naruto's unwavering determination.
Naruto discloses that his sensei, Kakashi and Kushina Uzumaki, abandoned the mission, surprising everyone. Naruto and Zabuza effortlessly defeat Gato's guards and free the prisoners, showcasing their power. Gato is brought to justice, and the citizens of Nami no Kuni celebrate their newfound freedom.
Team Sword sets course for the Hidden Mist Village to join the Rebel confronts Yagura, the tyrannical Mizukage, culminating in a dramatic battle that showcases Naruto's incredible strength and the revelation of his dragon-like form. The chapter ends with the shocking revelation of Madara Uchiha's involvement in the attack on Konoha and the sealing of the Nine-Tails.
Naruto: The Second Kaido
.Chapter 5: Aftermath and the Return to the Leaf
Naruto nodded in understanding and accepted the offer. However, he couldn't help but express his concern about being sealed inside by Sanbi.
"Are you sure this is what you want? I don't want to put your life in danger," Naruto asked with a hint of worry in his voice.
Sanbi reassured him, saying that it was better to be sealed within Naruto than to be used again by Uchiha. Plus, among all the bijuu, only Isobu and Chomei had mild personalities and chakra.
"But if there comes a time when I need to release you from the seal temporarily, will it harm you?" Naruto asked cautiously.
Sanbi shook his head. "No, it won't endanger my life. And please call me Isobu."
Naruto nodded again before successfully sealing Sanbi inside himself. Afterward, he informed Zabuza and Mei that he would be returning to Konoha as he didn't want to be labeled as a rogue ninja by the Hokage for being away for so long.
Mei then surprised everyone by giving Naruto an honorary citizenship of Kirigakure as she saw him as a true hero who helped liberate her village from tyranny. She also extended an invitation for him to visit or even live in Kiri anytime he wanted.
Naruto thanked her graciously while bowing respectfully before turning towards Haku who had been blushing throughout their entire conversation.
In front of everyone present including Zabuza and Mei, Haku mustered up the courage to confess her feelings for Naruto and ask him out on a date.
However, much to her disappointment (and surprise), Naruto politely declined her offer as he already had someone special waiting for him back in Konoha whom he planned on confessing his feelings towards upon his return.
Haku understood but couldn't bring herself not to at least try. "I know it's not easy for me to say this, but I'm willing to share with you if you just accept me, Naruto-kun," she pleaded.
Everyone present could see how much Haku truly cared for Naruto and wanted him to be happy. They all knew that the only thing holding her back from being with Naruto was her duty to help rebuild Kiri after its liberation.
Zabuza, who had recovered from his injuries, finally spoke up. "Fine! Oi gaki! I'll allow you two to date but if you ever make Haku cry, you're dead!" he threatened half-jokingly.
Naruto nodded in understanding before turning towards Haku. "Haku-chan, since the day we met on our journey here, you've always been special to me. And during our time together, my feelings for you have only grown stronger. If it's alright with you, let's become a couple," he said sincerely.
This brought tears of joy and happiness to Haku who ran into Naruto's embrace while everyone else couldn't help but feel touched by their love for each other.
The next morning as he prepared to leave Kiri and return home with Isobu sealed inside him now known as an honorary citizen of both Kirigakure and Nami no Kuni thanks to Tazuna and the villagers' gratitude towards him; Naruto bid farewell to everyone including Haku whom he shared a kiss within front of them all leaving them feeling envious yet happy for them at the same time.
As they arrived back in Wave Country where Tazuna insisted on giving him a reward consisting of an honorary citizenship of Wave Country along with one-quarter of Gato's wealth amounting up 10 billion ryo which would be more than enough money needed for rebuilding Konoha or even buying two hidden villages!
Naruto was taken aback by such generosity from the people of Wave and tried to decline their offer, suggesting that they use the money for their own village's development instead. However, Tazuna and everyone else insisted he take it as they saw him as a true hero who deserved all the rewards he was receiving.
Timeskip
After finally arriving back in Konoha, Naruto went straight to the Hokage's office where he was surprised to find not only Hiruzen but also Team 7 along with Minato present there.
Naruto greeted Hiruzen before giving his report about successfully completing his mission of liberating Nami no Kuni from Gato's control. However, Menma didn't believe him and accused him of lying since he had gone on this mission alone without any backup.
Sasuke also questioned what happened to Zabuza while Naruko just couldn't believe that her teammate could have accomplished such a feat on his own.
Naruto calmly explained everything that had transpired during his journey including defeating Zabuza using Kings Haki (a powerful ability passed down through generations in his clan), taking down Gato's guards single-handedly, killing Gato himself and then proceeding towards Kiri where he helped defeat Yagura (the tyrant Mizukage controlled by Uchiha)
Naruko's voice was shrill with disbelief. "What did you say?!"
Minato, his brow furrowed in concern, addressed Naruto directly. "Son, will you allow us to read your memories? Show us the truth of your mission?"
Naruto nodded silently. An Anbu vanished, summoned to fetch the Yamanaka clan head, Inoichi.
Silence hung heavy in the air until Inoichi arrived. The Yamanaka Clan's secret jutsu was a powerful tool, a double-edged sword of revelation and vulnerability.
"Yamanaka Hidden Jutsu: Clairvoyance!"
A shimmering mirror materialized, floating in the air. The images that flickered to life held the room spellbound.
The encounter with Zabuza, the devastating King's Haki, the massacre of Gato's men... each scene unfolded like a tapestry woven from chaos and power. Then came the battle with Yagura, the golden dragon soaring through the air, the Bijuudama's fiery demise, and the shocking revelation of Uchiha Madara's control over the Mizukage.
As the vision faded, silence gripped the room. The Hokage, his face pale, struggled to find his voice. "Naruto... is this all true? The dragon... Kiri... the Sanbi...?"
Inoichi bristled, offended by the Hokage's doubt in his clan's jutsu.
Naruto's gaze hardened. "Unless you doubt the Yamanaka clan's abilities, then yes, everything you saw is reality."
The room erupted in a cacophony of whispers. The revelation of Naruto's power, his jinchuriki status, his defiance of death – it was almost too much to comprehend.
But for Menma, it was an opportunity. "Strong you may be," he sneered, "but you disobeyed orders. You must be punished."
The other genin, smiles twisting their lips, echoed his sentiment. The Hokages and Anbu looked on with a mix of apprehension and anticipation.
Minato sighed, his disappointment evident. "Naruto, for completing the mission, you deserve an A-rank reward. However, insubordination demands a penalty. You will forfeit the reward and train your teammates in Taijutsu and King's Haki."
Naruto's fingers tightened around his forehead protector. He carefully untied it, placing it on the table with a soft thud. Every eye in the room was drawn to his deliberate movements.
Then, he spoke, his voice ice-cold. "I refuse. And I quit."
The words hung in the air, a shockwave that shattered the illusion of control. Naruto, the outcast, the overlooked son, had just defied the Hokage himself. It was a declaration of independence, a refusal to be defined by a family that had cast him aside.
The room fell silent, the weight of Naruto's defiance hanging heavy in the air. He had dared to reject the Hokage's authority, a challenge that struck at the core of Konoha's hierarchy.
Minato, visibly shaken, tried to regain control. "Naruto, if you abandon the shinobi path, what then? Will you live in exile? I will be forced to put you in the Bingo Book."
It was the wrong move. Naruto's eyes blazed with fury, his dormant power surging forth. A wave of oppressive King's Haki, far more intense than before, crashed down on the room, then spread like wildfire throughout the village.
Civilians, genin, even some chunin, collapsed unconscious. Team 7, still recovering in the Hokage's office, succumbed as well. Those remaining in the Hokage's presence were forced to their knees, gasping for breath. Only Hiruzen and Inoichi, veterans of countless battles, remained standing, though even they trembled under the immense pressure.
Naruto's voice, cold and commanding, echoed through the room. "You threaten me, Minato? You, who cannot even rise from the floor? I have surpassed you. Do not mistake my silence for fear."
He released the pressure, leaving the room in stunned silence. Minato and the two jonin struggled to their feet, faces pale with exertion.
Kushina's voice, sharp with anger, cut through the tension. "Minato, have you no shame? We stripped him of his birthright, erased his name from our family records, and now you threaten him? And for what? To steal the techniques he mastered through blood and sweat?"
Hiruzen stepped forward, his voice firm. "I stand with Kushina. Naruto is like a grandson to me. Try to take his hard-earned skills and you'll face my wrath. Find another punishment."
Minato, Kakashi, and the recently awakened genin gritted their teeth in frustration.
Finally, Minato spoke, his voice strained. "For three months, you will take missions, solo or with your team, but you will receive no payment. Do you accept it?"
Naruto nodded, his gaze unwavering. "I accept."
He retrieved his headband, tying it firmly around his forehead. A meaningful nod to Hiruzen and Kushina – a silent acknowledgment of their support – and he turned to leave. Minato and Kakashi exchanged a troubled glance. Their prized student had become something far beyond their control.
Break
Naruto, fresh from his bold stand against the Hokage, set out to find Ino. Their connection, forged in childhood and blossoming through shared training, tugged at his heart. Yet, a shadow loomed over his excitement – the knowledge that Inoichi knew about Haku.
Spotting Ino training with her team, Naruto's lips quivered into a mischievous grin. "Looking for the most beautiful kunoichi in Konoha?" he called out.
Ino turned, a radiant smile lighting up her face. "Naruto! Finally! I've been looking everywhere for you." She pouted playfully. "Where have you been hiding?"
His cheeks flushed. "Sorry, Ino-chan. You look adorable when you pout." He cleared his throat, trying to sound more confident. "Remember my promise? I'd like to take you on a date."
Ino's eyes widened, her cheeks a deeper shade of pink. "R-really? I'd love to."
"Great!" Naruto beamed. "How about I pick you up at seven tonight?"
"I'll be waiting." Ino said.
With a newfound spring in his step, Naruto embarked on a whirlwind of preparations. A reservation at Konoha's finest restaurant, a bouquet of Ino's favorite Stargazing Lilies, even a wardrobe consultation with the Third Hokage and Iruka (with old man Teuchi throwing in his two cents).
But as he stood outside Ino's house, a knot formed in his stomach. He'd forgotten the biggest obstacle: Inoichi, with his knowing smirk and disapproving eyes.
"Good evening, Inoichi-san," Naruto stammered.
Inoichi crossed his arms, a storm brewing in his eyes. "Don't worry, I won't ruin my daughter's night. Are you going to tell her about the Kiri girl?"
Naruto straightened his back. "I intend to."
Inoichi's lips twitched with a hint of approval. "Good. And respect her decision, whatever it may be."
Before Naruto could respond, Ino appeared, a vision in violet. The elegant gown hugged her figure, highlighting her natural beauty. Naruto's heart skipped a beat.
"Stargazing Lilies!" she gasped, burying her face in the fragrant blooms. "You remembered! Thank you, Naruto!" She impulsively kissed his cheek, sending a surge of warmth through him.
Their dinner was a symphony of laughter, shared stories, and unspoken glances. But as the night progressed, the weight of his secret grew heavier. Naruto knew he had to be honest, to lay everything bare before Ino.
"Ino-chan," he began, his voice barely a whisper. "There's something you should know…"
The world seemed to hold its breath. The moon shone brightly, casting an ethereal glow over the couple. A single tear rolled down Ino's cheek.
"It's about Haku, isn't it?"
"Ino-chan, there is something I've been wanting to tell you. Can we go to the Hokage Monument later? It's really important." Naruto said while he held her hand.
Ino couldn't help but wonder what he wanted to say. She blushed as she thought, "Is he going to confess his feelings for me there? How romantic! But I need to keep my cool and not get too excited."
Trying to play it cool, Ino responded with a nonchalant tone. "Sure, Naruto. Let's finish our dinner quickly then."
After they finished eating, they made their way to the Hokage Monument. Standing on top of the 3rd Hokage's stone head, they had a breathtaking view of Konoha below them.
They could see the busy streets filled with people chatting outside their homes and children playing happily in the sunlight.
Finally feeling ready, Naruto took hold of Ino's hand and her heart skipped a beat.
Naruto: "Ino-chan... from the moment we first met, I knew you were beautiful inside and out. And every time I saw you or heard your voice... my heart would race like crazy." He paused for a moment before continuing in a more serious tone. "I realized that I was already under love's spell... because Ino-chan..." His cheeks flushed pink as he nervously confessed his true feelings.
"Ino-chan," he said softly while gazing into her eyes,"I love you."
Tears welled up in Ino's eyes as she listened intently.
"I can say with all honesty that I will forever love you with all of my heart," Naruto continued bravely,"will you be my girlfriend?"
Overcome with emotion, Ino cried tears of joy as she replied without hesitation,"Yes, I want to be your girlfriend, Naru."
Without wasting any time, Ino stepped forward and placed a gentle kiss on Naruto's lips. He eagerly kissed her back and they shared their first kiss as a couple for almost three minutes before pulling away.
They looked at each other with rosy cheeks before bursting into laughter.
"I love you, my beautiful lily." Naruto said.
Ino blushed even more as she replied,"And I love you too, my handsome whiskers."
As the two of them basked in the happiness of their newfound relationship, Naruto couldn't help but feel conflicted about one thing. He had been contemplating whether or not he should tell Ino the truth about his past with Haku. But now that he was finally with the girl of his dreams, he didn't want anything to ruin it.
He made a decision to keep it to himself for now and focus on building a strong foundation for his relationship with Ino. After all, honesty is important but timing is everything.
In a hushed and intimate conversation, Naruto revealed a secret to Ino that would forever change the course of their relationship.
"Ino, I need to tell you something important about my recent mission," Naruto began, his voice laced with a mix of apprehension and relief.
Ino leaned forward, her eyes wide with anticipation. "What is it, Naruto?" she asked, her heart pounding in her chest.
"After completing a C-rank mission that unexpectedly escalated into a high A-rank, I traveled to Kiri to aid two friends in their struggle against an oppressive regime," Naruto explained.
Ino listened intently, her mind racing with questions. "What happened in Kiri, Naruto?"
"While I was there, I joined the rebels' army to challenge the tyrannical Mizukage," Naruto continued, his voice growing solemn. "It was a dangerous and tumultuous time, and I faced many challenges."
Ino's eyes filled with concern. "I'm glad you're safe, Naruto."
Naruto smiled gratefully. "I am too, Ino. But that's not all I have to tell you."
Ino's heart skipped a beat. "What else is there, Naruto?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.
Naruto hesitated for a moment, gathering his thoughts. "During my time in Kiri, I encountered a female friend named Haku," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "She confessed her feelings for me."
Ino's eyes widened in shock. "Haku... confessed her feelings for you?" she repeated, her mind reeling.
"Yes," Naruto confirmed. "But I declined her advances. I explained that my heart already belonged to someone else, and that I intended to confess my love to her upon returning to Konoha."
Ino's breath caught in her throat. "Who is this person, Naruto?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper.
Naruto looked into Ino's eyes, his gaze filled with love and sincerity. "It's you, Ino," he said softly. "I love you."
Ino's heart soared with joy, but a shadow of doubt crept into her mind. "But... Haku... she said she was willing to share your heart, or harm herself if you didn't accept her," Ino said, her voice trembling. "Did you... did you agree to her terms?"
Naruto's expression hardened. "No, Ino," he said firmly. "I refused. I couldn't betray my love for you. I care deeply for Haku, but my heart belongs to you, and only you."
Ino's tears welled up in her eyes. "Naruto..." she said, her voice choked with emotion.
Naruto cupped Ino's face in his hands and wiped away her tears. "I understand if you're hurt, Ino," he said gently. "But I want you to know that you're the only one I love. You're not a second choice, Ino. You're my first choice, and my forever choice."
Ino looked into Naruto's eyes, her doubts melting away. "I believe you, Naruto," she said softly. "But I need you to promise me something."
"Anything, Ino," Naruto said without hesitation.
"Promise me that you'll always be faithful to me," Ino said, her voice serious. "That you won't add any more romantic partners to our relationship."
Naruto smiled and nodded. "I promise, Ino. My heart belongs to you, and only you."
Ino smiled back, her heart filled with love and trust. "I love you too, Naruto," she said, her voice soft and tender.
And in that tender embrace, two hearts became one, forever bound by love and commitment.
Timeskip
Three months have flown by, and Naruto is finally free from his punishments. He is immensely grateful to the people of Wave Country for compelling him to accept the 10 billion ryo from Gato's fortune.
This money, although some may consider it "dirty money," has become a lifeline for Naruto. It has shielded him from the perils of starvation and homelessness. In the past three months, the Hokage, aware of Naruto's true strength, has assigned him many solo but perilous missions. Naruto has never shied away from these assignments, completing them with unwavering resolve and a 100% success rate, never sustaining a single scratch.
News of Naruto's remarkable exploits has spread throughout Konoha, earning him various titles and accolades. The villagers and shinobis now refer to him as "Maelstrom, Guardian of Konoha" and even go so far as to call him the "4th God of Shinobi." This distinction places him on par with esteemed figures like the Rikudo Sennin, Hashirama Senju, and Sarutobi Hiruzen.
Another three months pass, and the name "Kaido Naruto" reverberates throughout the Elemental Nations. From the Five Great Villages to the smaller settlements, mercenaries, bandits, and even the infamous S-rank criminal organization "Akatsuki" have heard of him and fear his prowess.
Nevertheless, the Fourth Hokage, his family, godparents, and teammates (with the exception of Kushina) do not share in the admiration. They have become the target of ridicule for banishing the very person who would later become a legendary figure.
One week before the commencement of the Chuunin Exam, Naruto and Ino made time for dates whenever they were not on missions with their teams.
Inoichi had come to accept Naruto's genuine love for his daughter and would occasionally invite him to have meals with them. Naruto would gladly accept these invitations.
In the past six months, Naruto had also made time to visit Haku in Kiri and take her out on dates whenever he had free time, whether he had missions or not.
One day, when Team 7 finished their training later than usual, Naruto was followed by Konohamaru's group. After making fun of Sakura's wide forehead, Naruto's arrogance, and Menma and Sasuke's spoiled personalities, Naruto told them to run.
Naruto and his siblings encountered Sunagakure genin Kankuro and Temari. Kankuro seized Konohamaru, threatening to strike him. But Naruto swiftly intervened, grabbing Kankuro's hand and applying pressure.
Kankuro released Konohamaru in pain. Naruto, with a wry smile, warned him of the consequences of harming the Third Hokage's grandson, potentially sparking a conflict between their villages.
Kankuro and Temari were horrified, realizing the gravity of the situation. Naruto then addressed Gaara, who had joined them.
"Care to join us, Mr. One?" Naruto asked.
Kankuro and Temari were again surprised. "How did you know?" they exclaimed.
"Simple," Naruto replied. "I'm Number Three, and these two are Nine."
The Sunagakure shinobi were stunned. Gaara descended and asked, "Who are you? My mother spoke ill of you."
Naruto smirked. "I am Kaido Naruto, and Isobu sends his regards to you and Shukaku."
Kankuro trembled. "You're the Fourth God of Shinobi and the exiled son of the Fourth Hokage?"
Naruto nodded. Temari, her eyes sparkling, embraced him. "My dream guy! I've always wanted to meet you," she gushed. "Will you go out with me?"
The rest of team 7 felt ignored and was gritting their teeth in frustration. After all, what they love the most is to become the center of attention. But they were ignored, and what angered them most is that one of them is now being flirted with.
"Hey, beautiful flower," Naruto said, patting her head. "But I already have two loving girlfriends. And they made me promise not to add another competitor for my love, so I have to apologize."
"But don't you worry, I'm sure you'll find someone you'll love more than me," Naruto added.
"Fine, but until then, won't you go on a date with me, please?" Temari asked, pouting.
"You should ask permission to my girlfriends first, hehehe," Naruto replied with a smile.
"HEY!" Sasuke shouted angrily. "HOW LONG ARE YOU GOING TO IGNORE US, HUH? DON'T YOU WANT TO KNOW OUR NAMES, TOO?"
"Oh my god!" Temari gasped. "You're still here? I thought you guys already left?"
"Pfft! That was a good one!" Naruto said, laughing.
"HOW DARE YOU!" Naruko shouted. "WHAT ARE YOU PEOPLE FROM SUNA DOING HERE ANYWAY? INFILTRATION?"
"Chuunin Exam, princess. What, you didn't know?" Temari replied. "We've been here for quite a while now, we should leave. See you later, lover boy. Oh, and my name is Sabaku Temari, these are my brothers: Kankuro and Gaara. See you later."
"Hey, don't you want to know our names?" Memma said.
Temari shook her head and said she wasn't interested, as she was only focused on finding her dream guy.
Sasuke exclaimed, "How dare you look down on us!"
Naruto intervened, saying, "That's enough! They're guests of Konoha!"
"Do you want the other villages to view us poorly? We can't afford to lack hospitality. Let's not tarnish our village's reputation with narrow-mindedness," he added.
Apologizing to the Suna team, Naruto said, "I'm sorry for my teammates' behavior. Please forgive my outburst. We'll meet again at the exam venue, my friends from Suna. Hopefully, we'll all pass and get promoted together."
Kankuro and Gaara nodded in response, while Temari, now blushing, wittily remarked, "You amaze me, Naruto."
The Suna team then bid farewell and departed.
Naruto called out, "You can come out now, Hatake-san and Kushina-sensei."
The members of Team 7 were surprised by Naruto's reference to their sensei.
Kushina greeted everyone, "Hello, everyone. We've been concealing our presence, but you still sensed us, Naruto?" Naruto nodded in response.
Kakashi handed over their Chuunin exam forms and instructed, "Fill these out and go to room 301 in the academy tomorrow. However, since there are five of you, one would have to go solo."
"I'll go solo. I prefer to move alone," Naruto volunteered.
Kushina agreed, but advised him to be cautious, saying, "Okay, but please be careful out there, Naruto."
Naruto nodded appreciatively and replied, "I will, thank you, sensei." Kushina felt a sense of happiness when her son acknowledged her simple advice and expressed gratitude. Team 7 was taken aback by Naruto's response, as he was beginning to open up to them, starting with his mother, Kushina.
Meanwhile, Menma wrestled with a tumult of emotions, a complicated blend of envy and fear fighting for dominance. His brother, Naruto, whose light had grown too bright, threatened to overshadow his own legacy as the heir of the Namikaze clan.
To be continued