Haru, entered the room with grace and poise, her kimono rustling softly against the floor. She was in her mid-thirties but still possessed an air of ethereal beauty that captivated those around her. Her makeup was exquisite, emphasizing her delicate features while adding to the allure she radiated. To say that being the owner of many okiya would have been bad would be a blatant lie.
Naruto watched as she approached him, his heart racing with anticipation and some other feelings. He couldn't help but feel honored that someone of her stature would take an interest in him but that this was the payment to get Information to fulfill his task was even more surreal. Haru stopped a few feet away and bowed respectfully before speaking.
"I've heard much about you, Naruto-kun," she began, her voice like silk sliding over his skin. "Daimyo's have paid me handsomely for my expertise, to school their heirs or even sometimes heiresses, but most seem to lack something... passion, perhaps." She chuckled lightly before continuing. "You, on the other hand, possess an intensity and character that intrigues me. I believe you have what it takes to pass my school with flying colors."
Naruto couldn't hide his surprise at her words. He had never expected someone like her to be interested in him, let alone offer to teach him such intimate skills. "I-I don't know what to say," he stammered. "You're too kind."
Haru smiled softly and walked further into the room, motioning for him to follow. She sat down gracefully on a cushion across from him and began untying her obi sash. As she did so, Naruto couldn't help but feel his heart race faster. He had never seen anything so alluring in his life.
"There is much to learn about pleasing a woman," she continued, her voice low and seductive. "But first, we must start with the basics." She placed a hand on his chest, her touch sending shivers down his spine. "You must learn how to control your emotions and focus on the sensations you're experiencing. Only then can you truly please a woman."
And with that, she leaned in closer, their bodies almost touching. Naruto could feel the heat emanating from her skin as she began to teach him everything she knew about pleasing a woman... and he became all too willing to learn as his body responded to her.
The three weeks, while mutually satisfactory after the initial awkwardness, were fulfilling as it was exhausting for the blonde ninja. Naruto would be the first to admit, that even with his high stamina and all those lessons it was hard sometimes to reach the top marks in Haru's lessons. But, to his and his Sensei's luck in the end the blonde passed with top marks. To say that all of that changed his outlook on what he would do regarding the rebuilding of his call was to be expected.
In their resting periods, they used the time to discuss how the nations worked. Something Madame Haru knew more than enough of. The prospect of more than one woman to rebuild his clan was crossed as often as the topic of political marriages. What Naruto would do in the end was still open, but he understood now that some things could be reached by just negotiating in the right way.
In the last week, Haru finally managed to locate Han. Now with a location, Jiraiya and Naruto used their shinobi travel speed and got off in the direction of Kuromori Town.
Kuromori Town is a picturesque settlement nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery, about 40 miles from the border of Rain Country. The town has a medium-sized population and boasts of being home to some of the most talented herbalists in Claw Country rivaling the experts of Grass Country. It's famed for its quarterly Herb Festival, which attracts merchants from far and wide, eager to showcase their wares and trade with fellow enthusiasts.
The streets of Kuromori Town are lined with colorful houses adorned with hanging plants and flowers. The aroma of fresh herbs permeates the air, creating an enchanting ambiance that's hard to resist. Visitors can stroll through the bustling marketplace, where vendors hawk their wares, ranging from rare medicinal plants to fragrant herbal teas and potions.
Apart from the Herb Festival, Kuromori Town has much to offer visitors. Several quaint cafes and restaurants are serving up delicious local cuisine made with freshly harvested herbs. The nearby hills provide ample opportunities for hiking and nature walks, allowing one to appreciate the beauty of Claw Country's flora firsthand.
Overall, Kuromori Town is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in herbal medicine or simply looking to experience the charm of a small, quaint village steeped in tradition and natural beauty.
Checking into an Inn that had only one single room left thanks to the festival that was this weekend they spread out to find Han. Naruto and Kurama stretched out their senses and felt a presence that could have matched but with so many people inside the town it was hard to pinpoint the location.
Naruto's senses were sharp enough to distinguish between shinobi and civilians or even measure the chakra capacity. This close he was just blind. He could not filter and had one clone set up to monitor if that changed. For the remaining time, Naruto had thought the best way to look for Han in the amount of people would be to enjoy the festival. With his clones set up, he hoped he would witness him moving out of the town.
As he was on his way to the town square he stumbled upon a declaration with the official seal of the Claw Daimyo:
Welcome to the Herb Festival! This is a special event where people from all over the world gather to celebrate the beauty and versatility of herbs. Here are some must-see events you should check out during your stay:
1. The Grand Parade: This vibrant parade showcases various cultures and their unique uses for herbs. You'll see colorful floats, costumes, and performances that will leave you spellbound.
2. Herb Market: Browse through an array of stalls selling fresh herbs, dried herbs, herbal remedies, and handmade products made from herbs. It's a great place to buy souvenirs or stock up on your favorite herbs.
3. Cooking Demonstrations: Learn how to cook delicious meals using various herbs from renowned chefs. You can also participate in interactive sessions where you can learn to make your own herbal blends and teas.
4. Herbal Workshops: Attend workshops on topics like aromatherapy, natural healing, and gardening. These informative sessions will teach you how to use herbs for self-care and wellness.
Now, while you're here, please note that the town is a neutral zone during the festival, and any fighting or violence will be met with severe consequences. The global community takes this event very seriously, and we want everyone to enjoy it in peace and harmony. Thank you for understanding and participating in our beloved Herb Festival!
At the end was a footnote warning of global bounties. Wide-eyed Naruto was surprised but somehow with so many people loving tea, the herbs for medical purposes, he could understand that for the festival days, everything would be done to ensure a good trade. With merchants from all around the nations and their samurai, he was sure that only the most notorious criminals would risk not abiding by the rules. Not wanting to challenge fate he tried to not think about it more than he needed. Making his way to one point of interest the blonde was on his way to the workshop fields.
The gardening workshop was held in a large open field where rows of raised beds had been set up, each containing different types of soil and herbs. The instructor for the day was an elderly woman with a kind face and weathered hands, who introduced herself as Master Isshiki. She began by explaining the importance of choosing the right type of soil and herbs for different climates and purposes.
Naruto listened intently as she demonstrated how to properly plant seeds, transplant seedlings, and care for various herbs throughout their growth cycle. He learned about companion planting, pest control, and pruning techniques that would help him grow healthy, vibrant plants in his own garden back home.
Throughout the workshop, Master Isshiki shared stories from her years of experience as a gardener, offering valuable insights into the medicinal properties of different herbs and their cultural significance. She encouraged questions and engagement from the participants, making everyone feel comfortable and at ease.
By the end of the workshop, Naruto felt inspired to start his own garden back home, hoping to share his knowledge and passion for herbs with others in his village. He thanked Master Isshiki for her wisdom and guidance, knowing that he had gained valuable skills that would last a lifetime.
Buying some seedlings he wanted for Uzu the blonde was of a good mood as one of his monitoring clones popped. He stood still and took off in the direction he needed straight into the dusk of the day.
Han's little encampment is nestled in a secluded clearing surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees. One single tent is set up, while different scrolls lie around and the famous steam armor is leaning against the tent's wall. In the center of the camp, there's a large fire pit where he has just placed a pot to boil some water for his tea. The flames dance playfully in the darkness, casting flickering shadows across the ground.
Han is sitting cross-legged beside the fire, his back straight and his eyes focused intently on the pot. He wears simple traveling clothes that are clean but worn from use. His hands are calloused from years of training and he moves with a graceful precision that speaks volumes about his abilities.
The air in the clearing is filled with the sweet scent of fresh jasmine, adding to the serene atmosphere of Han's peaceful encampment.
The excited Naruto slowed down and made the clone set off in Jiraiya's direction where he hoped to find the old superpervert who seemed not as perverted as before. He had not even once visited a brothel till they started the trip. Only short trips for his network. Well, as far as Naruto could tell that was. So moving slowly towards Han Naruto, waved with a white piece of cloth in hand.
"Err, Han-San? Do you mind if I get closer?" He called out from a still-safe distance.
The man at the fire did not even flinch as he held up one finger as he counted out. "30, 31, 32, 33." With the 33 he took the tea pot from the fire fire and poured the water into two cups. One he had summoned out of a scroll. After he used very precise movements and good measurements of herbs, that looked like Jasmine he waved Naruto towards him and looked at him.
"Uzumaki-San, join us for some tea I hope you like Jasmine. It's one of my favorites."
Naruto stumbled a bit as he was met with the peaceful voice even Kurama and his sensing did not pick up any deceit. So he joined Han at the fire accepting the other cup.
"I hope you won't try to poison me with that tea though" Naruto tried to joke.
Han's expression got serious and he leaked a bit of killing intent. "If I find an ignorant fool that uses such a good blend for an assassination attempt I will melt the skin from his bones with my steam." Naruto gulped as the older Jinchurkii's expression calmed before he followed up with a question for the blonde. "Do you know the qualities of Jasmine teas Uzumaki-san?" Naruto shook his head.
"Jasmine tea," said Han, taking a sip from his cup, "is a type of green tea that originates from the Jasmine flower as its name indicates. It's known for its delicate floral aroma and taste, which is due to the addition of real jasmine petals during the processing stage."
He continued, "One of the main benefits of Jasmine tea is its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to various health issues such as cancer and heart diseases. Something we Jinchurikii may not need to worry about right?" Naruto chuckled about that.
Han went on, "Jasmine tea is also believed to have calming effects, making it a great choice for those who struggle with stress or anxiety. The soothing qualities of the tea can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality."
He added, "In addition to its health benefits, Jasmine tea has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other types of teas. Its floral notes make it a refreshing and enjoyable beverage, perfect for any time of day."
Naruto was impressed by the knowledge of the man, but well he was one of the judges of the Okiya guide, so he would have to know his teas right?
"Thank you Han-San…" He wanted to say something but Han interrupted him.
"You need to drink now Uzumaki-San while it is still steaming. It will be hot for you maybe but coat your tongue with a slight layer of chakra and you should be good, but at this very moment, it is at its peak. The flavor will be in perfect balance. Drink! Drink!" Han said while he himself took another sip and sighed with happiness. Naruto did so too shortly after following his instructions and as he was told the taste was so fulfilling that he remembered at his time with Haru and he had to sigh too. Han nodded satisfied. "Now Uzumaki-San what do you want to talk about?"
After a short explanation, the two of them first took another sip of their tea before they bumped their fists establishing the connection.
Shared Mindscape
As Han opened his eyes he was shocked to find himself in some kind of hall. Directly opposite Naruto stood behind him the form of the Kyuubi. As he looked around he could make out the sleeping forms of the Yonbi and Ichibi. "Uzumaki-San?"
Naruto looked around and recognition crossed his face before he nodded. "Well the two of them seem to be asleep at the moment. Son is recovering and Shukaku most possibly just is asleep."
Han slowly nodded. "Right…" He looked behind him to see Kokuo nod. The five-tailed cross between a mare and the head of a dolphin sat down behind him.
"Good to see you again big brother," she said as she looked at Kurama.
The fox nodded and blew out some air out of its nostrils as his nine-tails flicked a bit. "Right back to you sister. I hope he treats you well?" The last words brought a wave of his killing intent directed at Han who needed to take a step back. as his biju began to chuckle.
"So he is the one father told us about?" she asked as she used her snout to stabilize her host and nodded right after. "Han is a perfect Gentleman specimen of the human race" she added. Getting a satisfied nod from Naruto with a thump up.
"He better, would not be the first vessel that we would free of its 'burden'" The fox spat out the last word as he huffed and laid his head on his paw.
"Wait a minute? you killed Roshi?" Han interrupted his voice not even hinting at anger just curiosity.
Naruto answered that question after the fox blinked at his partner. "I did. Our companions were never meant to be sealed in humans. But for them to be treated as tools. To be exploited? No, not on my watch. I extracted Son out of Roshi before I killed him, I gave him time to realize his mistakes though." The blonde explained. Roshi gave a slow nod. Naruto clapped his hands. "Good, with those things out of the way let me tell you about my plan okay?"
Getting a nod from the other Jinchurikii Naruto started to explain the plan he had told the two other Biju's before. Getting more passionate with each word.
Han was captivated by his charisma. That alone was a noteworthy matter. Not only got Naruto Han hooked on his idea but also Kokuo as the mare came to Naruto and used her snout to poke him transferring some of her chakra to him.
"Naruto, I think I speak for both of us when I say we are tired of all the fighting that is done out of greed and communication issues. Iwa won't stand down I'm afraid. Onoki, while he is known to be careful and with your profile out, even more. He will try to order me back to Iwa. Roshi was always more accepted because of how he dealt with Son." Han shook his head.
"You will have to deal with that. I will retire and if you allow it join the retreat on your Island."
Naruto smiled brightly. "Of course, I think Son would appreciate the company of a sibling and its host. I can make a clone…"
The blonde wanted to explain more as Kurama and Kokou spoke out respectively in a warning before they ejected them out of the mindscape.
"HAN!"
"NARUTO!"
"Watch out!"
Both blinked quickly and ducked out of the way of explosions. Explosions, which spilled the tea off Han and Naruto as they got into ready positions, orienting themselves. As the dust was cleared by a short wave of Naruto's unsealed Gunbai they looked into the faces of some thugs and led by a shinobi with a crossed-out Rain headband. Before could Naruto say a word Han looked at his spilled tea and shortly after at the group of bandits. The place was quickly filled with killing intent.
While barely above a whisper Han's voice filled the clearing. "You dare to spill my tea?" He had one hand on his steam armor. Naruto gulped. He knew how serious Han was about his tea.
Naruto shook his head looking at those thugs. He could not even recognize the Ame nuke-nin. "Guys, you fucked up…" the blonde sighed.
The bandits wanted to laugh as one of them looked at his boss. He pulled a little at the collar of his outfit. "Do I imagine things or did it get hot here suddenly?"
Before the other could say something they were engulfed in a cloud of steam. As Han had put on his armor in the split of a second. Shortly after with the sound of a whistle, he moved through the rows of bandits. Punching them with steaming fists. From Naruto's point of view, it looked like the clothes burned as they got in contact with Han's fists and kicks. Combined with the short screams the Steam-clad shinobi scalded them to death in a matter of seconds.
Naruto looked at Han as he was coming back. "Damn, Han. we could have asked them who sent them."
He looked back with an intense gaze that said how important the next words were to him, "They spilt my tea" was all he said before he walked back to the camp and began the clean up while Naruto burned the unnamed thugs and sealed the corpse of the Ame Nin, they would travel to Amegakure next so maybe he could trade this body in?
Naruto watched as Han took off his armor again after he cleaned up the spilled things, and put everything in scrolls. The blonde was summoning some clones to help with the cleaning.
"What are you about to do now Han?"
"I will get some more herbs and will make my way to Uzushio. Set up a classical tea house and begin a garden for my tee leaves I think. I am tired of fighting Naruto-San." Han replied.
"I really hope your dream will be a reality soon Naruto."
Naruto nodded and smiled "I will give it my best shot Han, believe it. Oh? Do you need a lift, I could let a clone Hiraishin you to Uzushio?" The blonde added in the end. Han untied his Forehead protector and threw it to the ground. He nodded.
"Yes, I think that would be a good idea." The man nodded before a clone put a hand on his shoulder and disappeared in a yellow flash. Just before that happened another clone came in with Jiraiya in tow.
Jiraiya caught the outline of Han before he looked at his student. "Everything went well I suppose?"
Naruto gave a short nod as he picked up Han's discarded Forehead protector handing it over to Jiraiya. "You tell me Sensei."
Jiraiya looked at the headband and back at his student before he took it off him. "You know you are special like that Naruto? You can change someone. I mean I can imagine where you send Han off to. Are you really sure that you go through with it?"
"For the moment not much happened Sensei, Based on the treaty between Uzumaki and Senju and therefore Konoha I am completely in my rights to retire after I reach Chunin, as long as Uzushio provides help to Konoha if a global war breaks out. Something I won't let happen again. I will look for the remaining Jinchurikii and after that finish my sage training. We will see what comes after"
Jiraiya and Naruto left Claw country shortly after—training on the road mostly summoning toads and using combination attacks with them. The next stop on the road was the Land of Rain. While they may not enter Amegakure as far as Jiraiya's sources told him he wanted to show Naruto the county.
Rain was different than the other countries Naruto had visited before. With it being one of the border countries between Earth and Fire Country many battles of the last wars have been fought here. It's a country rich in natural resources, including minerals and crystals, which have made it a hotbed for conflict over the years. Battles fought here have left deep scars on the land, with craters and charred earth marking the paths of powerful clashes.
One such battle took place near a grove of ancient trees, where Hanzo the Salamander had clashed with a big force from Konoha. The fight was fierce, unleashing devastating elemental attacks. In the end, it was the combined efforts of several ninjas that eventually led to a standstill. The poisonous air left behind from Hanzo's attacks had to be sealed into this grove to not endanger the environment around it. It was rumored that one of Hanzo's hideouts was hidden in this grove. Nowadays it is more legend than everything.
Today, the grove remains a place of legend and caution. The air is thick with moisture and the soil acidic, making it impossible for anyone to survive without a proper breathing apparatus. A rebreather is required to enter the area, as well as knowledge of the seals needed to contain Hanzo's power. Despite the danger, some ninjas still venture into the grove in search of ancient scrolls or other artefacts left behind by past battles. If they return, they are returning empty-handed.
Naruto wanted to visit this grove but Jiraiya prevented him from doing so and even Kurama agreed so Naruto while pouting put that adventure on hold for now.
They could see Amegakure in the distance as they moved along toward the border to Grass Country. Their clothes were hanging wet on their bodies and Naruto's mood was a bit downtrodden. "Sensei, first you did not let me test the grove and now, it has not stopped raining for like ever. And even more, that rain feels funny."
Jiraiya blinked. "What do you mean funny?" The Sannin asked before Naruto signaled 'incoming' just a minute before a woman flapped her wings and landed in mid-distance to the two shinobi who had stopped. Jiraya was alarmed as he had seen the Akatsuki cloak.
Konan is a beautiful woman with striking features, including bright orange eyes that seem to glow in the dark. She has long, flowing blue hair that she often styles into elegant updos or lets down freely around her shoulders. Her most distinguishing trait, however, is her use of paper jutsu.
Konan is incredibly skilled at manipulating paper to create a variety of objects, including butterflies, birds, and even full-sized wings. These wings allow her to fly through the air with grace and agility, making her an unpredictable and dangerous opponent. Despite their deadly appearance, Konan's creations often have a delicate beauty about them that reflects her own personality. And this woman was now standing before the two travelers. Jiraiya could not even find words so she gave the two of them something resembling a smile without the warmth. "What are you doing here Jiraiya-Sensei, Kyuubi Jinchurikii? Do you come to offer yourself to our god Pain?"
"Now listen here paper lady, we're just passing through. Even though my goal is to convince every one of you, crazy cape wearers of your stupidity, I've been traveling for days and am soaked to the bone. I wasn't allowed to search this cool grove and I just want to get out of this weird tickling chakra rain. Wait a minute sensei?" Naruto ranted before he stumbled on the Sensei address of his teacher. Pointing between them "You two know each other."
"Konan, you have become a beautiful woman. How are Nagato and Yahiko?" The Sannin asked. Both ninjas could see Konan's face darken when Jiraiya mentioned Yahiko.
"Yahiko is dead, killed and Nagato goes by the name Pain now Sensei. You are not welcome in this land. You are not welcome here. It would be better for your health if you continued on your way as quickly as possible." Her gaze turned to Naruto. "As for you, boy. When you experience Pain, you'll stop saying such big words."
Naruto unsealed his sword and was about to mold the required chakra to attack before Jiraiya put a hand on his shoulder shaking his head. The teen looked at Konan. His gaze and body language were very intense. "Your plan is to unite the Bju and unleash a mystic weapon right?" When Naruto saw the shock on Konan's face, he had a knowing grin on his face. "This weapon, you have no idea what it is, do you?"
Again a small twitch on the woman's face told him he was right and Naruto continued mercilessly. "The ten-tailed one is not a simple weapon that you can point at something to spread fear and terror. It is a force of nature that will end life in the nations forever. Whoever put this crap in your brains and convinced you it was the way to go must be a manipulative piece of scum. If I were you, I'd think about something else. I can help you." He took out one of his Hiraishin kunai and threw it so that it stuck far in front of her. "Throw it on the ground near the grove if you want to talk. Sensei?" He looked at Jiraiya before they both disappeared with a nod in Konan's direction and a gush of wind.