Naruto strolled serenely alongside the four Anbu, making his way back to town and eventually to the Hokage tower, where he anticipated a meeting with the esteemed leader himself. He couldn't shake the suspicion that the old man was under pressure from the council, likely being coerced into orchestrating Naruto's execution.
Barely two days had passed, yet they already sought his demise. Well, such was life.
Glancing at the Anbu accompanying him, Naruto couldn't help but inwardly chuckle. "Can you believe these guys? They're practically trembling with fear, hoping I won't end them. Can't say I blame them," he remarked to Kurama.
"They're just being smart. They're well aware of the power I wield, and it terrifies them. That's the kind of respect I've earned from your people, and from others even in my time. Being feared is quite intoxicating," sneered Kurama, a smirk playing on his lips as he relished in his own arrogance.
Interrupting his conversation with his tenant, Naruto halted as they approached the front gates of the Hokage tower. It was time to confront the proverbial firing squad, and he anticipated it would be quite the spectacle. As they entered the tower's lobby, Naruto reconsidered his initial assumption about the Hokage's confidence in his state of mind.
Before him stood nearly three dozen Anbu, clad in battle attire as though expecting a war. Naruto chuckled, earning puzzled stares from the Anbu. "My, my, you're all quite tense, aren't you? Am I truly that intimidating? If I had malicious intent, I'd have acted already. What a farce," he remarked with an unsettling calmness that left them all uneasy. With that, he proceeded towards the stairs, noting the absence of Yugao and Tenzo among the Anbu.
It was a relief; he wouldn't dare harm his sister and friend, even if it came to eliminating the rest.
The Anbu divided into four groups, encircling their target as they escorted him toward the Hokage's office. Leading the way, one Anbu member broke off from the rest and entered the office alone. Moments later, the door closed behind them, leaving three guards outside in readiness. It wasn't ideal, but it could have been worse; they all could have entered at once.
Naruto immediately noticed the presence of more than just the Hokage upon entering the room, along with the Anbu guards. The Elder Advisers were there, as well as Inoichi Yamanaka. His gaze narrowed slightly at the sight of the last person, who returned his glare.
She was Hana Inuzuka, recognizable by her long brown hair pulled back into a tight ponytail, with the distinct fang-like tattoos of the Inuzuka clan adorning her cheeks. Additionally, a flower tattoo adorned her upper right arm, possibly a play on her name. Dressed in Chunin attire, her vest was slightly unzipped, revealing a hint of cleavage, paired with black shorts and standard shinobi sandals. Hana was the heiress to the Inuzuka Clan.
Naruto reminisced about their past interactions when he was five years old. She used to be kind, often giving him candy and joining in his play with other children. However, things took a dark turn when villagers and some of her clan members discovered their association. They poisoned her mind, convincing her that he was the reincarnation of the Kyuubi.
The situation escalated to the point where she sicced her dogs on him while her father watched and laughed. His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the Anbu captain conversing with the Hokage.
"The boy was found on top of the Hokage Monument, Sir," the messenger reported, his tone carrying a barely concealed disdain. "He was found in the presence of Hinata Hyuga, who seemed to be uninjured. When we attempted to extract the Hyuga heiress, the boy threatened one of my men. We were eventually able to secure the heiress and she was returned to the Hyuga complex albeit reluctantly. She did not seem to want to leave his side."
"The boy has a name, Taicho, and you would do well to remember your manners in my presence. You may leave," said Sarutobi.
The Anbu Captain looked visibly irritated, his distaste for Naruto evident in his demeanor. "With all due respect, sir, that thing threatened one of my men. It's obvious that the Demon is escaping its prison, which we should dispose of him now before he is able to break free. You did not see the size of the crater at the site where we found him. It was easily 100 feet in diameter. The Demon is escaping; we must act NOW," said the Captain in a demanding tone, making Naruto inwardly chuckle.
'You have no control over your own soldiers. Pitiful old man, let me help you. Call this a freebie... Manipulate,' thought Naruto, noticing the messenger's thinly veiled disgust.
Naruto's eyes glowed with a subtle green hue, a manifestation of the power he had honed through his travels. It was this subtle radiance that signaled the activation of his ability, Manipulate. Unlike the traditional techniques of genjutsu which relied on the manipulation of chakra, this power operated through otherworldly means, bypassing the need for chakra control. As his eyes shimmered with this eerie light, Naruto knew that Sarutobi was fair game for his influence, his mind open to the subtle suggestions that Manipulate could offer.
The Third's eyes blazed like flames for some inexplicable reason as he turned his gaze upon the Anbu Commander. "Who do you think you are speaking to, Commander, or should I say Lieutenant? I am the Hokage of this village, and I alone decide when and if we need to take action regarding Naruto. Now, you are dismissed, and take your men with you. I do not wish to lay eyes on you," Sarutobi declared, feeling a fire within him that hadn't burned so fiercely in decades.
One of the Anbu members dared to step forward. "But sir, the council instructed us to guard the boy and you. We are not to leave his side," he explained, earning a hardened glare from the elderly Hokage. Sarutobi's gaze shifted to Danzo, who merely shrugged indifferently.
"We suggested this for our safety, to ensure that the Uzumaki child does not overstep his boundaries," Danzo added quickly, catching himself before mentioning the demon, not eager to relive the chaos of the last council meeting.
Sarutobi's patience wore thin. He turned back to the Anbu, slamming his hand down on the desk to emphasize his point. "And I have told you to wait outside. Do not forget who you answer to. Now, leave, or I shall strip you all of your ranks and send you back to the academy... And inform Neko that she has my blessing as the New Commander," he commanded. The Anbu hesitated for a moment, then begrudgingly obeyed, exiting the room and closing the door behind them.
Naruto smirked inwardly as he released his subtle influence, satisfied with the outcome.
Sarutobi shifted his gaze towards Naruto, his expression softening compared to moments before, tinged with a hint of sadness. "I presume you're aware of the reason for your presence here, Naruto. Is it true that you confronted one of his associates?"
Naruto advanced, meeting Sarutobi's gaze squarely as he replied, "Yes, I understand why I'm here, and yes, it's true that I startled one of his associates. I merely glanced at him, and he nearly had a heart attack. I never laid a hand on them. When Hinata Hyuga expressed her concerns and they attempted to forcibly remove her as if I posed a threat to her safety, I made it clear I wouldn't tolerate any harm coming to her." His words were delivered with a composed demeanor.
Sarutobi's eyes widened momentarily in surprise before regaining their composure. Naruto noticed the reaction, recognizing the astonishment at Hinata's response and his own level of understanding. However, before delving into that, he needed clarification. "May I inquire as to why they're here... especially her?" he asked, gesturing towards Hana, who emitted a low growl in his direction.
"Well..."
(Flashback/30 Minutes Earlier)
The Hokage found himself enduring yet another stress-laden day, burdened by responsibilities he felt he shouldn't still be shouldering at his age. At seventy, retirement should have been his refuge, yet duty kept pulling him back in.
"How can you possibly see Naruto as a threat just for defending himself?" Sarutobi's voice carried an undertone of exasperation, weary of these recurring debates.
"The fact that the boy dared to stand up for himself, especially given his history of non-confrontation, should be seen as evidence enough. He should face constant retribution to remind the fox of its place within its new host, to make it aware that it's vulnerable to attack at any moment," Koharu interjected, her disdain for both the fox and its vessel palpable.
Danzo and Homura remained silent, observing the tense exchange with impassive expressions.
"Dialogue like that only serves to make us no better than those we claim to oppose, the enemies of our Daimyo. Do you wish for us to become hypocrites?" Sarutobi countered, attempting to inject some reason into the discussion, though weariness tinged his words.
"It's better than harboring a village that houses the Nine-Tailed Demon Fox. The very same demon that claimed your predecessor's life, Lord Hokage. Frankly, I'm surprised you haven't taken it upon yourself to rid us of the boy. But I suppose old age has softened you, turning you into a sympathizer for the demon merely because it resides in the body of a 18-year-old," Homura retorted, aiming to sway favor away from the Hokage.
"Regardless, Naruto will remain a Leaf Shinobi, whether the council agrees or not. They cannot strip him of his ninja status without legitimate cause unrelated to the Kyuubi within him. He is not the demon itself, despite what you may believe, Homura," Sarutobi asserted, though the weariness in his voice betrayed his frustration with the council's narrow-mindedness.
"I'm well aware of our thoughts on the matter, Hokage-sama. That's precisely why Inoichi Yamanaka will be probing his mind today, once the ANBU retrieve him. If Naruto proves to be an unstable vessel, we'll have the authority to not only bar him from becoming a Genin but also to issue a public execution order, as sanctioned by the council, to protect the village from any potential harm," Danzo announced, garnering agreement from the other Elders.
"And what if he passes this examination with flying colors, Danzo? What if he's as stable as I maintain?" Sarutobi challenged, the weariness in his voice now tinged with a hint of defiance, fully aware that if this examination yielded no damning evidence, Danzo would have to answer for criticizing the Hokage of Konoha.
"I'll cross that bridge when, and if, I come to it, along with the other Elders. But rest assured, Hokage-sama, it won't come to that," Danzo replied, a hidden satisfaction evident as he anticipated finally disposing of the Namikaze and securing his long-desired weapon.
(End of Flashback)
"Let's just wrap this up. I've got better things to do than waste time with a bunch of closed-minded fools who can't see beyond their own biases," Naruto declared, eliciting a growl from Hana, a smirk from Inoichi, and icy glares from the elders.
"Why, you insolent..." Koharu began, her hand edging towards a kunai, but a warning glance from Hiruzen halted her, unwilling to allow any harm to befall the boy at the hands of what Aeris fittingly termed a 'tree-humping bitch'.
"Enough! We'll conduct the examination in the room I've prepared down the hall. Only Hana Inuzuka and Naruto Uzumaki are to be present. I won't tolerate any interference that could compromise the integrity of this examination," Sarutobi asserted firmly, ensuring no meddling from the elders.
"Why must a veterinarian examine me instead of a qualified doctor?" Naruto queried, puzzled by the arrangement.
"Hana Inuzuka is a skilled veterinarian with keen senses. She's handled various animal-related incidents and her expertise is more than adequate for this examination," Homaru explained, sneering at Naruto, only to be silenced by the boy's intense glare, which instilled fear in the elder.
"Fine. But I won't be undressing completely for some dog enthusiast like her," Naruto asserted firmly, drawing the line at exposing himself fully to a woman.
"I couldn't care less about seeing what's under your clothes, kid. You're probably lacking in that department anyway," Hana retorted, smirking, but her confidence waned when Naruto exuded a menacing aura, causing her to tremble with fear, an intensity she had never encountered before.
"Keep talking like that, and you'll never bear children," Naruto threatened, his hand twitching towards his sword, but he restrained himself, mindful of Kurama's reminder to avoid unnecessary conflict during the examination.
"Both of you, cease this bickering! Naruto, I expect no bloodshed from you or your examiner. Any violence will be met with severe consequences," the Hokage intervened sternly, unwilling to tolerate conflict in his office late at night.
"Understood. Let's get this done. But mark my words... if she so much as gives me a sideways glance, I'll make sure her remains are delivered personally to her mother's doorstep," Naruto declared coldly, striding towards the designated room. Behind him, Hana Inuzuka followed reluctantly, her confidence waning in the face of Naruto's threats. The elders watched with growing concern, realizing they had never witnessed such coldness and brutality from Naruto before, and they began to question their ability to restrain him if he turned violent.
Ultimately, they concluded that they were ill-equipped to handle him and silently prayed that he would remain calm, knowing that if he didn't, they would be in serious trouble. Sarutobi just wanted to go home.
Naruto cautiously entered the room, his eyes scanning the surroundings with suspicion. He couldn't bring himself to trust either the elder adults or his supposed examiner to adhere strictly to protocol. The room itself was modest yet functional, furnished with a solitary chair, a table, and a wooden clipboard for recording pertinent information during the examination. After a brief survey of the space, he stepped forward, with Hana trailing behind him, her expression a mix of disdain and disbelief at the notion of someone like Naruto being deemed fit for the ninja life.
Whispers among her clan had long painted Naruto as the vessel for the Kyuubi, a fact that her kin regarded as paramount to their own safety and interests, transcending even the decrees of the Hokage. It was a technicality that permitted such discussions within the confines of the clan home, a loophole they clung to amidst their collective unease. Seeking clarity, Hana had approached her mother, only to be met with disappointment and a stern admonishment against entertaining such notions about the boy. Her mother vowed to address those who had "poisoned her mind."
The hospital witnessed a surge of activity from concerned clansmen that day. Yet, amidst the commotion, no one had seen fit to inform Kiba of the situation regarding Naruto. His propensity for divulging information without consideration for the consequences made discretion paramount. With a determined resolve, Hana shut the door behind them, locking it securely to ensure no interruptions would disrupt the examination proceedings.
'We'll soon discover just how much of the demon fox resides within you,' she thought to herself, her gaze fixed on Naruto as the examination commenced.
"Strip down to your boxers," she instructed, though Naruto was already complying before her words left her lips.
"I don't suppose that's an issue. Do you know a reputable tailor in the village who does quality custom work?" Namikaze inquired, casually removing his shirt and arm bracers, placing them on the table without facing her.
For a fleeting moment, Hana was speechless, taken aback by the scars littering his back. Faded slash marks, burn scars, and stab wounds decorated his skin, reminiscent of enduring time with Ibiki Morino. But what truly struck her, filling her with both revulsion and sorrow, were the teeth marks just below his shoulder blade. The largest scar, a prominent burn mark with the damning Kanji for "Murderer" atop a smaller one reading "heaven," left her questioning why his wounds hadn't healed if he was the Kyuubi. Weren't all his injuries supposed to mend?
"I-I wouldn't know of any specific place," Hana responded, veering away from the topic of the Kyuubi, leaving it to interpretation, unsure if Naruto was aware of the Fox's presence.
"If you're alluding to the Kyuubi, I'm already aware, as are you, so there's no need to conceal it," Naruto interjected, discarding the remnants of his dark blue uniform to join the other items, revealing his well-built physique to Hana.
Grateful to be standing behind Naruto, Hana's cheeks burned with a blush at the sight before her. "Perhaps he's more developed than I presumed," she mused, stealing a glance at his backside before snapping out of her reverie, though reluctantly.
"I'm not here to waste time," Naruto declared calmly, sensing her gaze lingering on him, much to her delight and his irritation.
Hana returned to reality as she approached Naruto, who stood waiting. She reached for the clipboard on the table and began jotting down notes. "Please turn to face me completely," she requested, aiming for a professional tone though her inner self was struggling to maintain composure.
Following her instruction, Naruto turned, and Hana nearly gasped. In her mind's eye, she saw not a young boy, but a man with distinct whisker marks etched deeply on his cheeks. His physique was imposing, resembling that of a war deity, both in front and behind. His piercing blue eyes seemed to momentarily crackle with power, though she dismissed it as mere imagination, feeling her senses jolted by their intensity.
"As you can see, there's nothing to hide," Naruto stated calmly, observing Hana lost in thought.
Shaken from her reverie, Hana redirected her attention to Naruto's gloved hand. "What's this?" she inquired, her tone shifting towards professionalism, although her curiosity tugged at her emotions.
"It's something I acquired while spending time with my father," Naruto replied truthfully, though he left the details for another occasion.
Hana remained skeptical, scrutinizing his hand closely, sensing something contained within the glove. Yet, her dog-like instincts couldn't discern the veracity of Naruto's words. Deciding to revisit the matter later, she resumed her measurements, recording his height, width, and other details with a tape measure, knowing she had ample time to delve further into the mystery.
She cursed inwardly, 'Quit with the filthy thoughts! He's just a kid at 18, way too green for you!' But damn it all, as she sized him up, her fingers grazed his left muscled leg. A flush spread across her cheeks at the accidental touch, and she couldn't deny the surprising jolt it sent through her. It definitely wasn't his sword, she knew that much, making her regret opening her mouth to him in the first place."
'Holy moly, he's massive!' Hana couldn't help but think, struggling to keep her expression neutral while her mind raced with all the scandalous scenarios she could enact with him right then and there. She scolded herself for her impure thoughts, quickly redirecting her attention back to the examination.
'I smell honey,' thought Naruto, his annoyance mounting as he realized he held no allure towards her. Admitting her physical appeal, he remained resolute in his reluctance to pursue someone so obedient, a mere follower without the capacity for independent thought. How could he ever consider a relationship with someone lacking their own mind?
Yes, she was undeniably attractive, but Naruto couldn't overlook her submissive nature. She adhered to the pack's directives without question, devoid of personal autonomy. The idea of being with a woman who couldn't think for herself seemed inconceivable to him.
"I've got the perfect plan to get even with her. No violence involved, and she won't end up six feet under," Kushina chuckled softly.
Naruto's movement ceased. He understood that when his mother sought revenge, she could be as merciless and relentless as he was, if not more so.
Correction. She could be even more ruthless and unforgiving than him.
Well, he must have inherited it from someone.
Kushina conveyed her plan to Naruto telepathically, prompting him to grow visibly annoyed. "Seriously, Mom? That's your big idea?" he complained inwardly. It wasn't something he was particularly keen on pursuing.
Grumbling with irritation, Naruto reluctantly agreed to go along with Kushina's plan. "Fine, but you can't watch," he insisted, severing their telepathic connection abruptly. Kushina let out a squawk of indignation, clearly displeased with being excluded from observing the execution of her own scheme.
Suddenly, it felt like Hana couldn't think straight, couldn't even catch her breath. Her arousal surged at the mere sight of this ALPHA. She craved him desperately, needing him right then and there.
'What?! I can't do that, I'm still a virgin,' she tried to reason with herself, her thoughts racing.
"Yeah, and what better way to lose it than to a total hunk who probably has tons of experience?" her inner pervert chimed in, making its presence known.
'I'm not sure,' she stammered, feeling overwhelmed by conflicting emotions.
"Stop hesitating and just go for it, girl! Screw him!" her inner voice urged, pushing her to take action.
(Lemon)
And then, before she knew what was happening, Naruto closed the distance between them, pressing his lips against hers. Hana was taken aback, but she couldn't deny the spark that ignited between them. She tried to push him away, but instead found herself pulling him closer, her body responding to his touch.
As the kiss deepened, Naruto's hands began to wander, exploring Hana's curves. She gasped as he cupped her breast, his thumb brushing against her nipple through the fabric of her shirt.
Despite herself, Hana found herself becoming more and more turned on. She had never experienced anything like this before, and she wasn't sure how to react. But as Naruto's touch became more insistent, she found herself responding in kind.
Before she knew what was happening, Naruto was pulling off her shirt, exposing her bra-clad breasts. Hana's heart raced as she felt his hot breath against her skin, his lips closing around her nipple. She moaned as he sucked and bit at her, her body writhing beneath him.
"Fuck, you're so hot," Naruto growled, his hands pulling at Hana's pants. She helped him, kicking off her shoes and wiggling out of her pants until she was standing in front of him in nothing but her bra and panties.
Naruto's eyes raked over her body, taking in every inch of her. "You're fucking gorgeous," he murmured, his fingers tracing the line of her panties.
Hana felt a shiver of anticipation run down her spine as Naruto hooked his fingers under the waistband of her panties, pulling them down her legs. She stepped out of them, standing naked in front of him.
Naruto's eyes darkened as he took in the sight of her, his cock already hard and throbbing in his pants. "I need to taste you," he growled, dropping to his knees in front of her.
Hana gasped as Naruto's tongue found her clit, lapping at her with long, slow strokes. She reached down, tangling her fingers in his hair as he sucked and bit at her, her hips bucking against his mouth.
"Oh fuck, yes," she moaned, her orgasm building inside her. She felt herself getting close, her body tensing as Naruto's tongue worked its magic.
But just as she was about to cum, Naruto pulled away, standing up to face her. "I want to feel you cum on my dick," he growled, pulling down his pants and revealing his hard cock.
Hana's eyes widened as she took in the sight of him, her body responding instinctively. She dropped to her knees in front of him, her hand closing around his shaft.
Naruto hissed as she began to stroke him, her hand moving up and down his length. He reached down, tangling his fingers in her hair as she leaned forward, her lips closing around the head of his cock.
Hana had never given a blowjob before, but she quickly found herself getting the hang of it. She sucked and licked at Naruto's dick, her hand working in time with her mouth.
Naruto groaned, his hips thrusting forward as Hana sucked him deeper into her mouth. She could feel his cock twitching in her hand, and she knew he was close.
"Fuck, I'm going to cum," he gasped, his hand tightening in her hair.
Hana pulled back, stroking him faster as he came, her hand covered in his cum. She looked up at him, her eyes wide and innocent.
Naruto reached down, pulling her to her feet. "I need to be inside you," he growled, lifting her up and pressing her against the wall.
Hana wrapped her legs around his waist, her arms around his neck as he entered her. She moaned as he filled her, her body stretching to accommodate him.
Naruto began to thrust, his hips moving in a steady rhythm. Hana moaned, her head falling back as he fucked her.
The examination room was filled with the sounds of their lovemaking, their bodies slapping together as Naruto took her harder and harder.
"Fuck, you feel so good," he groaned, his fingers digging into Hana's hips.
Hana couldn't speak, her body overwhelmed by the sensations coursing through her. She could feel another orgasm building inside her, her body tensing as Naruto fucked her harder and harder.
"Cum for me, Hana," Naruto growled, his thrusts becoming more insistent.
Hana couldn't hold back any longer, her orgasm crashing over her like a wave. She cried out, her body shaking as Naruto continued to fuck her.
Naruto groaned, his own orgasm following close behind. He buried himself deep inside Hana, filling her with his cum.
They stood there, panting and sweating, as their orgasms subsided. Naruto pulled out of Hana, setting her down on her feet.
Hana looked up at him, her eyes wide and innocent. "That was... amazing," she whispered.
"If you think we're done you got another thing coming Hana-chan" Hana looked over at him both fear and lust shining in her eyes,Naruto chuckled.
(Lemon Over)
Three Hours Later
Hana winced with each step, her limp pronounced from the pounding she had endured over the last three hours. Naruto had done what he could to heal her, but some of the soreness remained. Despite the discomfort, she found it oddly pleasant.
"Before you get dressed, I need to take a few pictures of you in your current state for the record," Hana said, completing her examination of Naruto's physical condition to the best of her ability.
Naruto simply nodded, relieved to be done with this part of the examination forced upon him by the higher-ups. Secretly, Hana enjoyed capturing these moments, although she wished he wouldn't cover up. However, she knew they couldn't linger in the room forever.
"At least I can keep one to show the others," she thought, clipping all but one photo onto the clipboard and tucking the last one into her back pocket.
Exiting the room, Naruto led the way with Hana close behind. Her expression became unreadable as they entered the Hokage's office. The Third Hokage waited anxiously, hoping Naruto had passed this phase unscathed.
"After examining Naruto Uzumaki, I've found him to be exceptionally physically fit for his age, likely due to the 'tenant' inside him compensating for years of abuse. Beyond that, there are no abnormalities. In my opinion, he surpasses most Genin, Chuunin, and even Jounin in our ranks. In a few years, he'll be unmatched both within and outside of Konoha," Hana reported, her gaze briefly lingering on Naruto's form before returning to the Hokage as she handed over her notes on the clipboard.
"Everything seems to be in order. Thank you, Hana. You may leave," the Third Hokage remarked, inwardly expressing gratitude to the gods for guiding Naruto safely through the first half of this ordeal.
Meanwhile, the Elders seethed in silence. They had instructed Hana to depict Naruto as physically unstable and unfit to be a ninja. However, the photographs she presented contradicted their desired narrative. The power of persuasion might achieve many things, but certain truths remained elusive.
"Now, onto the mental examination. I believe we can conduct it here," proposed Danzo, confident in Inoichi's ability to deliver the desired report on Naruto's mental state.
"Very well. Naruto, please take a seat here, and Yamanaka, you sit beside him," directed Sarutobi, anticipating that the mental assessment would prove more challenging for Naruto.
"Of Course. Ninja Art: Mind Transfer Jutsu!" proclaimed Inoichi as he entered Naruto's body, leaving his physical form behind in the room with the others.
Naruto's Mind
Inoichi Yamanaka stood at the precipice of consciousness, poised to venture into the depths of Naruto Uzumaki's mind. The task before him was weighty, a directive from the council to determine the stability of the young ninja whose fate hung in the balance. Danzo's shadow loomed over the proceedings, his ominous presence casting a pall over Inoichi's thoughts.
With a deep breath, Inoichi began the intricate process of penetrating Naruto's mental barriers, his mind reaching out like tendrils of mist seeking purchase in the fog. In an instant, he was transported into a world of surreal imagery, where reality blurred and perception wavered like ripples on a pond.
The landscape of Naruto's mind was unlike anything Inoichi had encountered before. Instead of the expected chaos or darkness, he found himself standing in the sterile confines of a business office. The incongruity of it all left him momentarily disoriented, his senses struggling to reconcile the familiar with the bizarre. There he notices someone sitting behind the desk.
Inoichi's gaze swept over the figure before him, his breath catching in his throat at the sight of her. She was clad in a form-fitting business suit that hugged every curve of her body, accentuating her slender waist and graceful silhouette. The fabric clung to her like a second skin, hinting at the supple flesh beneath with every subtle movement.
The suit was a deep shade of crimson, a color that seemed to ignite the flames of passion within him. The jacket was tailored to perfection, the lapels dipping low to reveal a tantalizing hint of cleavage that sent a flush of heat rushing to Inoichi's cheeks. The sleek lines of the suit elongated her legs, drawing his gaze downward to where the fabric tapered into a pair of high-heeled shoes that added inches to her height and lent her an air of confidence and poise.
Inoichi couldn't tear his eyes away from her, mesmerized by the way she carried herself with a quiet strength and grace. Every movement was deliberate, purposeful, as if she held the weight of the world upon her shoulders yet refused to be crushed by it.
Her hair, a fiery cascade of crimson, framed a face that was both strikingly beautiful and hauntingly familiar. Her eyes, pools of deep purple, held a depth of emotion that spoke of a lifetime of trials and tribulations. There was a sadness there, a sorrow that tugged at Inoichi's heartstrings and made him long to reach out and offer her solace.
As she spoke, her voice was like music to his ears, each word dripping with a honeyed sweetness that sent shivers down his spine. There was a power in her presence, a magnetic pull that drew him in despite the danger lurking behind her words.
Inoichi found himself captivated by her, lost in a sea of sensation and desire that threatened to overwhelm him. He couldn't deny the allure of her beauty, the intoxicating scent of her perfume that lingered in the air, enticing him with promises of forbidden pleasures.
But beneath the veneer of elegance and sophistication, there was a darkness lurking within her, a rage that simmered just beneath the surface. Inoichi knew he should be wary, that he should guard himself against the storm brewing in her eyes. Yet he couldn't help but be drawn to her, like a moth to a flame, unable to resist the pull of her magnetic presence.
As the bindings tightened around him, trapping him in her web of seduction and deceit, Inoichi couldn't help but wonder if he would ever escape the clutches of this enigmatic woman who had ensnared his heart and soul with nothing more than a glance.
"Inoichi," her voice cut through the silence, tinged with bitterness and resentment. "I never thought I'd see you here, of all places."
Inoichi's mind raced as he struggled to make sense of the situation. This woman, with her steely gaze and commanding presence, seemed to hold a sway over him that he couldn't quite comprehend.
"Kushina... I thought you were..." Inoichi's words faltered, his throat tightening with the weight of unspoken truths.
"Dead?" she finished for him, her voice carrying a note of defiance. "Sealed, yes. But not gone. Not forgotten."
Guilt washed over Inoichi like a tidal wave as he grappled with the enormity of his past actions. Memories flooded his mind, scenes of missions gone awry, friendships forged and shattered, and the haunting specter of a choice made in the name of duty.
"I'm sorry," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "I thought... I thought the Kyubi was the only thing sealed inside Naruto."
Kushina's eyes softened momentarily, but the anger simmered beneath the surface. "You could have done more, Inoichi. You could have protected him, looked out for him."
Inoichi's heart clenched at her words, the weight of regret bearing down upon him like a heavy burden. "I know," he admitted, his voice heavy with remorse. "But I had to think of my family. My daughter..."
Kushina's expression hardened, her features twisted with a mixture of sorrow and rage. "Your family," she spat the words as if they were poison. "Your precious family. Did you ever stop to think about mine? About what Konoha did to my son?"
The accusation hung heavy in the air, a bitter reminder of the pain and loss she had endured. Inoichi's throat tightened as he struggled to find a response, knowing that there were no words to undo the damage that had been done.
As Kushina's anger intensified, the very fabric of Naruto's mind seemed to respond to her emotions. Inoichi's surroundings shifted, the sterile office space morphing into something darker, more ominous. Before he could react, invisible bonds coiled around him, restraining him in place.
Inoichi's eyes widened in alarm as he realized he was being bound to a chair, his limbs rendered immobile by some unseen force. Panic surged through him, his heart pounding in his chest as he struggled against the invisible restraints.
Kushina's lips curled into a sinister smile as she raised her hands, a flicker of chakra dancing between her fingertips. "You wanted to see if Naruto was unstable, didn't you, Inoichi?" she taunted, her voice laced with malice. "Well, let's see how stable you are."
Inoichi's breath caught in his throat as Kushina's chakra surged forth, enveloping him in a suffocating grip. He felt as though his very essence was being squeezed, compressed under the weight of her fury.
"No!" he pleaded, his voice echoing in the confines of his mind. "Please, Kushina, stop!"
But his words fell on deaf ears as Kushina's onslaught continued unabated. Inoichi's vision swam with spots of darkness, his consciousness teetering on the brink of oblivion.
This was not the Kushina he remembered, the cheerful teammate who had once fought alongside him. This was a woman consumed by hatred and vengeance, a force to be reckoned with.
Just when he thought he could take no more, the onslaught ceased as abruptly as it had begun. Inoichi gasped for breath, his body trembling with exhaustion and fear.
Kushina stood before him, her expression unreadable as she regarded him with a mixture of contempt and satisfaction. "That's just a taste of what Naruto has endured his entire life," she spat, her voice dripping with venom. "And you... you were willing to subject him to even more."
Inoichi's heart sank as the weight of his actions settled upon him like a leaden cloak. He had thought he was acting in the best interests of Konoha, of his family. But now, faced with the consequences of his choices, he couldn't help but feel a profound sense of shame.
"I'm sorry," he whispered, his voice barely audible above the hum of his own thoughts. "I never meant for any of this to happen."
Kushina's expression softened slightly, a flicker of something akin to pity in her eyes. "I know," she said quietly. "But that doesn't change what you did, Inoichi. And it certainly doesn't erase the pain you've caused."
With a weary sigh, she turned away from him, her form dissolving into the shadows of Naruto's mind. Inoichi was left alone with his thoughts, his mind reeling with the weight of his guilt and regret.
As he struggled to make sense of the turmoil raging within him, a voice echoed in the recesses of his mind. It was Kushina, her words a haunting reminder of the consequences of his actions.
"You wanted to see if Naruto was unstable," she had said. "Well, let's see how stable you are."
Inoichi closed his eyes, a single tear slipping down his cheek. For the first time in a long time, he was forced to confront the darkness within himself, to reckon with the choices that had led him to this moment.
And as he sat alone in the darkness of Naruto's mind, he vowed to do whatever it took to make amends, to ensure that Naruto would never again suffer at the hands of those who sought to exploit him. For in that moment, he realized that true strength lay not in power or ambition, but in the courage to confront one's own shortcomings and strive for redemption.
As Inoichi departed Naruto's mind, leaving behind the tumultuous scene that had unfolded within its confines, Kushina found herself alone amidst the shifting landscapes of her son's consciousness. Gone was the sterile office environment that had served as the backdrop for her confrontation with Inoichi. Instead, she now stood in a vast, grassy plain, the gentle breeze whispering through the air like a soothing caress.
As Kushina sat in the grassy expanse of Naruto's mind, her mind wandered back to the moment when her life had been forever changed. It was a memory etched into the very fabric of her being, a moment of both profound sacrifice and unfathomable pain.
She remembered the day when the Kyubi had attacked Konoha, laying waste to everything in its path. In a desperate bid to save their village and their son, she and Minato had made the ultimate sacrifice, sealing the fearsome beast within their newborn son. But what no one had realized at the time was that in sealing the Kyubi, she had inadvertently sealed a part of herself as well.
As she lay on the cold, hard ground, her life slipping away with each passing moment, she had made a choice. A choice born out of love and desperation, a choice to stay by her son's side even if it meant sacrificing her own existence. And so, in the final moments before she was consumed by darkness, she had poured her very soul into Naruto, binding herself to him in a way that went beyond mere physicality.
In the years that followed, as Naruto grew and faced the trials and tribulations of life as a jinchuriki, Kushina had borne witness to every hardship, every moment of pain and suffering that he endured. She had seen the cruelty of the world, the indifference of those who should have protected him, and it had filled her with a deep and growing rage.
Minato had been trusting, perhaps too trusting at times. He had believed that their son would be safe, that he would be loved and cherished by those around him. But Kushina knew better. She had seen the darkness that lurked within the hearts of men, the capacity for cruelty and betrayal that lay dormant in even the most seemingly virtuous of souls.
And as she watched Naruto struggle, as she felt the echoes of his pain reverberate through her own being, a deep and abiding hatred grew within her heart. Hatred for those who had wronged her son, who had failed to see the light that burned within him, who had treated him as nothing more than a weapon to be feared and reviled.
In the depths of Naruto's mind, amidst the shifting landscapes and swirling mists of consciousness, Kushina's rage burned like a wildfire, consuming her from within. And as she sat alone in the darkness, her soul tethered to her son's in a bond forged by love and sacrifice, she knew that her journey was far from over. For as long as Naruto faced the trials of life as a shinobi, she would be there beside him, a silent guardian fueled by a mother's fierce and unyielding love.
With a weary sigh, Kushina sank to the ground, her emotions roiling within her like a tempest unleashed. The weight of her anger and betrayal pressed down upon her, threatening to crush her spirit beneath its suffocating embrace. Tears welled in her eyes, hot and angry, as she struggled to make sense of the whirlwind of emotions raging within her.
Beside her, the Kyubi materialized, its massive form a comforting presence amidst the chaos of her thoughts. It regarded her with solemn eyes, a silent witness to the turmoil that churned within her soul.
"Kushina," its voice rumbled, the sound reverberating through the air like distant thunder. "What's troubling you? I sensed your turmoil from afar."
Kushina remained silent, her gaze fixed on the horizon as she struggled to find the words to express the depth of her pain. The memories of her past, of Naruto's suffering and her own, weighed heavily upon her heart, threatening to consume her with their fiery intensity.
The Kyubi reached out a clawed hand, its touch gentle yet firm as it brushed away the tears that stained her cheeks. In that simple gesture, there was a silent understanding, a recognition of the bond that bound them together as kindred spirits, united in their shared struggles and pain.
"I know it hurts, Kushina," the Kyubi now Kurama murmured, its voice soft with empathy. "But you're not alone. I'm here for you, no matter what."
A choked sob escaped Kushina's lips as she leaned into the Kyubi's embrace, seeking solace in the warmth of its presence. For in that moment, amidst the vast expanse of Naruto's mind, she found a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness, a reminder that she was not defined by the pain of her past, but by the strength and resilience that lay within her heart.
The room's occupants grew increasingly uneasy as they awaited the straightforward procedure of Inoichi presenting his report after a routine entry and exit from Naruto's mind. However, time passed without any sign of him, fueling concerns that perhaps something had gone awry. The advisors, their anxiety mounting, entertained the unsettling thought that Inoichi might have fallen victim to the demon, prompting them to prepare for drastic measures should the situation demand it. Fortunately, their fears proved unfounded as Inoichi emerged, enlightened, from Naruto's consciousness and returned to his older self.
"Phew! That was quite the journey," Inoichi exclaimed, clearly affected by the intense experience within Naruto's mind.
"You're not kidding," Naruto responded, vigorously shaking his head to clear the mental fog and relieving the strain in his neck with a series of sharp movements.
Turning his attention to Inoichi, Danzo wasted no time in probing for the assessment that could potentially condemn the Kyuubi vessel and advance his agenda.
"Well... after thorough examination of Naruto's mental landscape and drawing from my extensive professional background, I can confidently attest to the remarkable resilience of Naruto Uzumaki Namikaze's psyche. It appears to be remarkably stable, capable of withstanding considerable mental stress, be it through torture or other means," Inoichi declared before respectfully acknowledging the Third Hokage and Naruto himself. With that, he left the room, leaving the elders stunned by the unexpected revelation.
"If that's the case, then I hereby lift the restriction on the Academy's continuation so he can become a full-fledged ninja. Now, I think it's time for all of us to get some rest. It's late, and just like old men, kids need their sleep. Come on, Naruto, let's get you home," declared the Third Hokage, rising from his chair to depart, only to be blocked by the Elders.
"Sarutobi, we must protest the results of the two exams! We refuse to believe that the demon didn't attempt to cheat his way through them," Homaru asserted, glaring at Naruto, who returned the stare with icy resolve, no longer hiding his disdain for the Elders.
"What proof do you have to contradict the examination results? If you have anything to prove Naruto cheated, then show me. If not, leave my office before I consider you a threat to my life, and have Naruto deal with you like he did with the traitor Mizuki!" Sarutobi's patience wore thin as he addressed the Elders, needing rest for tomorrow's events.
"He's the one responsible for that murder. You're a sick little bastard who should be executed NOW!" Koharu shrieked, but Sarutobi's potent killer intent silenced her.
"I WILL HAVE NO SUCH THING! I ORDERED IT, AS HE SHOWED SIGNS OF CONNECTIONS WITH THAT TRAITOR OROCHIMARU. AND HE WAS ONE OF THE FEW WHO PARADED AROUND AS A HERO FOR SUPPOSEDLY KILLING THE DEMON CHILD. HE IS NARUTO UZUMAKI NAMIKAZE, THE SON OF THE YONDAIME HOKAGE AND THE RED DEATH. SHOW HIM SOME RESPECT, OR I'LL EXECUTE THE THREE OF YOU RIGHT NOW!" Sarutobi roared, emitting more killing intent than ever before.
"Kit, is that your influence?" Kurama asked.
"Nope, I guess he finally found his breaking point."
The Elders were shocked and scared by this revelation, having heard that Mizuki was the traitor, but unaware that he had been killed by Naruto. The threat of either Naruto or the Hokage killing them themselves spurred them to nervously leave the room.
"I guess I should thank you again, old man. So... thanks!" Naruto resumed his normal demeanor, relieved to not be serious like the Uchiha and the Hyuugas.
"Well, Naruto, this has been one screwed-up day, but hey... it could have been worse!" Sarutobi mused, as they left the office, both relieved that this intense hurdle in Naruto's life was now over.
"Got a minute, Naruto?" he asked as they strolled along.
"Yeah, Jiji," Naruto replied, turning his head to acknowledge the old Hokage.
"Why did you spill about the fox to her? I figured you'd keep that locked up tight."
"She already knew, and she'd have figured it out if you hadn't spilled the beans, you old coot," Naruto thought, but simply said, "Honestly, I have feelings for her."
The old man grinned and tousled his surrogate grandson's hair, much to Naruto's irritation. "Fair enough, my boy. But remember, even though you care for her, she can't be your only option for marriage."
"Let me guess... CRA (Clan Restoration Act)," Naruto said more as a statement than a question.
"Correct. How did you guess?"
"I do my homework," Naruto quipped.
"So you're aware that since you're reviving two different clans, you'll need double the spouses?" Sarutobi said, causing Naruto to nearly trip over his own feet.
"Wasn't aware of that," Naruto admitted.
(Next Morning)
Sasuke Uchiha seethed with anger at the swirling rumors of his and the Inuzuka's supposed defeat. He couldn't shake off the talk of this supposed underdog, Naruto Uzumaki, who until recently had been a mere blip on his radar. Compared to Sasuke's esteemed position within the Uchiha District, Naruto had been insignificant, a mere pebble on the path of his life. With the wealth of his family's legacy at his disposal, Sasuke had honed his skills in chakra control, fire jutsu, and Uchiha taijutsu to perfection.
Yet, Naruto and Yugito possessed a power that eclipsed them all, stoking Sasuke's jealousy to unbearable levels. "They wield a power I crave, one that I will seize when the opportunity arises. Only an Uchiha is worthy of true strength, while the rest remain weak, serving my clan," Sasuke mused, eagerly anticipating the day he could unlock his bloodline limit and claim what rightfully belonged to him, even if it meant confronting his own brother.
As he traversed the streets, Sasuke paid little heed to the adoring gazes and affectionate whispers of his fangirls, though he couldn't help but notice a significant portion of them were strangely preoccupied with something else. What could possibly divert their attention from him? Sasuke wondered, until he stumbled upon discarded copies of a picture, distributed anonymously that morning.
Picking up one of the images, Sasuke's disbelief surged as he beheld a sight he never thought possible: a shirtless, muscular, blond-haired Naruto Uzumaki. "What in the world?" Sasuke thought incredulously, unable to reconcile the image before him with the Naruto he knew.