Chapter 34
"It is good to know you all made it back alive and well." Hiruzen smiled at the three formerly MIA Shinobi before him with a smile that showed he was genuine in his relief.
For once, Kakashi didn't have his nose in a book, standing with his hands in his pockets and his eyes glued to the Hokage. Kagero stood at attention, as was expected, while Naruto merely stood beside his mentor—his expression equally as blank as the woman's
"We're glad to be back. We ran into a bit of a hurdle, but came out unscathed in the end." Kakashi answered for them. "Unfortunately, as you no doubt already knows, the mission was a bust."
"...Yes, Mizuki's betrayal is already well known. Tsubaki-san was quested by ANBU but determined she knew nothing of Mizuki's betrayal and subsequent death. Worry not, the situation was handled delicately due to her recent childbirth, and she yet remains in her hometown." Hiruzen said, at the same time reassuring the blonde of Tsubaki's condition.
"I'm guessing she didn't take it well." Kakashi added, already knowing the answer from the way the Hokage sagged.
"I have put her on leave for no longer than a period of 2 years. I can only hope the Will of Fire still burns brightly within her inspite of what has happened."
Naruto's eyes suddenly found the ground, flashes of Mizuki being cut down by his own blade coming to mind. The feeling of the blade entering his flesh, the pain, the betrayal, and the rage. All these emotions he could feel, yet his expression betrayed nothing.
"I believe it is time we got to what is important, Hokage-sama." Kagero interjected. Knowing what she meant, Hiruzen open his mouth to speak. "And I believe it is best that Uzumaki stays, Hokage-sama."
Hiruzen's mouth immediately closed, studying the woman for a while before turning his attention to his surrogate grandson. Trusting her judgment, he motioned for ANBU to proceed with silencing the outside world from any eavesdroppers. Once done, Kagero stepped forward, her poise straightened and her expression serious.
"In the week we were gone, we have confirmed that Uzumaki Naruto no longer holds the Kyuubi. I also theorize that he never housed the beast at any point in his life."
A pregnant silence passed as the words settled in. As if to confirm the validity of the kunoichi's words, Hiruzen looked to Kakashi. His slight nod confirmed it as truth, making the venerable Hokage close his eyes in contemplation.
"And the proof?" Hiruzen asked.
"None but what I have seen, sir. However, we have met the actual host and know of her whereabouts."
"And that is?"
Kagero paused for a moment to look at her student. He stared petulantly, seemingly waiting for her to put her thoughts into words. With a long, suffering sigh, she spoke what she believed to be truth.
"It currently resides within a woman known as Byleth Eisner...in a land the locals call Fodlan. Uzumaki claims it is where he often disappears to and is currently the only one capable of transversing to and fro. Uzumaki and Kakashi both have also reported that it was this same Eisner who was responsible for our rescue and death of Orochimaru. I cannot confirm this for myself, but I have no reason to believe their words to be fabrications."
Once again, Hiruzen searched for the truth in Kakashi. Getting no denial from the man, he then turned to the Genin, seeking the truth from the source itself. He was not expecting a shrug, but then again, he didn't really know what to expect from the boy to begin with.
"Fodlan..." Hiruzen tested the word on his tongue. "I cannot say I am familiar with the place. Would you be able to pinpoint its location on a map?"
"I do not believe so, sir. It is," Kagero looked pained, as if not wishing to speak her next words. "Not of this world, sir. I only believe this to be factual due to the foreign way the locals use chakra, which they call 'magic'. I cannot speak for its applications, but I must admit their healing arts far outclass our own. It is also the home of the dragons Uzumaki summoned during our mission in the Land of Springs."
The more she spoke, the more things started to tip towards the illogical. The only reason he believed any of it was because the woman herself was as straight as an arrow, and Kakashi hadn't yet denied any of it.
"...And where is this 'Eisner' now?"
"Still in Fodlan, sir."
"And there was no convincing her to be brought to Konoha?"
"Oh, she tried, and was put through a wall. I'm only sad I didn't get to see it a second time." Kakashi revealed, much to the woman's annoyance.
"She is capable of harnessing the power of the Kyuubi at will. A fact I was unaware of until that incident. I did not think it wise to force the matter and put our comrades's lives in danger." For the first time, Hiruzen felt that the kunoichi was not being entirely truthful with her statement. "I also would like to bring up the fact that Uzumaki is capable of summoning her at will, much like he can the Nanabi."
Attention went back to Naruto, the boy blinking as he realized they were waiting for him to speak.
"I can't summon her." He admitted plainly.
"Can't or won't." Kagero challenged.
"Both. Can't, because she's on a mission to save my friend's home. Won't, because I promised not to summon her until she is ready. That was our promise, and I always keep my promises."
"And when might that be, Naruto-kun?" Hiruzen asked patiently.
"Don't know. Could be tomorrow or a year from now. She never gave me a time frame."
"But you are the only one capable of contacting her, no?"
"Unless you have friends over there, then yes."
"...This is troubling news." Hiruzen sat back in his chair, grabbing his pipe and taking a long drag. "The only positive I can see is that no one outside this room knows that the Kyuubi is no longer under Konoha's grasp. If this gets out..." Hiruzen paused to turn to Naruto, his gaze firm. "Naruto-kun, can I trust you won't tell a soul about this?"
The boy shrugged, "People never believe me even when I'm telling the truth. I doubt they will now."
"...Very well, but I must stress this, Naruto-kun. No one can know of this. Not until I have come up with a solution. Understood?"
"We could just leave her alone." Naruto wisely suggested.
"It is not that simple, Naruto-kun. A Jinchuuriki is a symbol of strength for every great village. If word were to spread that you no longer hold the Bijuu, it could very well spell the end of peaceful days in Konoha. Even man and woman with ill will towards our home will no doubt seize the opportunity, and I must ensure the safety of Konoha first and foremost." Hiruzen's brow furrowed, his expression growing firmer as he continued, "That being said, I am entrusting you in making sure she becomes an ally of the Leaf by any means necessary, Naruto-kun. Should the day ever come where the situation is dire, I must know that we can depend on her strength should the need arise. Am I understood?"
Naruto held the Hokage's stare, the old man trusting the boy to do the right thing while the boy seemingly contemplated something silently.
"I'll try." Was his answer.
"Good, good. Then, in the meantime, I think it's best we move on to things we can control. There are only four days until the Chunin Exams in Suna, and Team 4 has already been registered."
"They are more than ready, Hokage-sama." Kagero stated, holding a slightly taller stance that any present might have taken as a show of pride.
"I don't doubt it. They have survived more than what low even Jonin normally experience. Nevertheless, I must ask something of you, Naruto-kun." The room grew tense as Hiruzen looked the blonde dead in the eyes. "As of this day, you will be known as the man Genin, the Jinchuuriki who killed Orochimaru. Make sure everyone knows that you are without a doubt the strongest Genin in the Exams. No mercy. No hesitation. Do you understand?"
The room was silent as the gravity of the order fell upon everyone present. This was an order of power. An order for the boy to showcase his strength, and in turn, Konoha's. Most would not believe that a no name Genin was capable of slaying a man even Hanzo the Salamander acknowledged. Making a name for himself at the Chunin Exams wouldn't make people fully believe, but it would put that doubt in their heads. The fact that Suna would not be the only great Village participating was a hidden gem Hiruzen once thought to be a catastrophe waiting to happen.
"As you command, Hokage-sama." The boy's confirmation reassured the wizened old man. Come hell or high water, Konoha would always come out on top. He would make sure of it.
Shimura Compound
"YOU'RE ALIVE!" Naruto was immediately tackled by his teammate the moment he walked onto the Shimura compound. Tenten's cheek rubbed against his, her smile beaming as she held onto the blonde tightly. "You have no idea how much we were worried! Seriously, I thought I'd never get to see this big, stupid face of yours again!"
"We got lost." Came the blonde's answer, though for once, his teammate didn't seem to mind the obvious lie.
"...And you're still alive too, I guess." Tenten said with significantly less enthusiasm at the woman standing next to her teammate.
"Your concern for my well-being is noted, Higurashi." Kagero replied, matching the teen's enthusiasm.
"Oh! We have to go find Neji! He's been a bit more moody than usual, but that's just his way of showing he was worried!" The bun-haired girl explained as she began dragging him from the Shimura compound towards the courtyard where their remaining teammate was. Kagero was quick to follow, keeping a measured pace behind.
It wasn't long before they reached the Hyuuga—standing in the middle of the courtyard and currently murdering a poor practice dummy. Sweat poured down his face and his eyes were laser-focused.
"Hey, Neji! Bet ya can't guess who I bumped into!" Tenten called out, gaining the boy's attention. His face maintained its tired visage, but he was noticeably more at ease upon seeing the two trailing behind her.
"I didn't think you were alive." The Hyuuga said, wiping the sweat from his brow as he approached the trio.
"Sorry, we got caught up with something. Didn't mean to make you guys worry." The blonde answered, much to the Hyuuga's ire.
"I was more concerned with the state of our team, not your well-being."
"...You're right Tenten. He really was worried."
"See? Told you so! He may not admit it, but I'm sure he loves us somewhere deep inside."
"Keep telling people that Higurashi and I'll start forgetting to reopen both of your pathways next time we spar."
Sending him a raspberry wasn't the most 'adult' response, but he'd be lying if he expected any better from his teammates.
"Reunions aside, there is something you all must be aware of." All turned to the voice who spoke, Neji in particular looking as if he'd just now seen her.
"I see you made it back as well."
"...As you may already know, the Chunin Exams are in three days, and you all shall be attending. I expect you all to govern yourselves as Shinobi of the Leaf." Kagero continued, ignoring yet another disappointed grunt at her safe return. "However, I find it prudent that I make sure you understand that this will be no ordinary Exam due to the company in our party."
Her gaze turned to the blonde, the boy somewhat expecting it.
"Uzumaki, I'm going to be transparent with you. This exam holds more factors than just the things we spoke of with the Hokage. It is not just Konoha's safety that is at hand, but your own—more so."
"Huh? Why?" Tenten put the question out there.
"Probably because my dad killed a lot of Iwa-nin." Naruto answered, his teammates giving him a confused glance.
"I thought you were an orphan." Tenten asked.
"I am. I just know who my dad was."
"And he is?" Neji asked.
"Uzumaki don-"
"The Fourth." The blonde revealed. Kagero's immediately went up to massage the bridge of her nose while Tenten and a Neji both unamused.
"You're joking." Tenten said plainly, to which she received an unusual blank stare from her friend. Looking to the Jonin whose hand currently covered her face, Tenten's eyes suddenly widened in realization. "Oh Kami, he's telling the truth."
"You have to be joking." Neji echoed her previous statement.
"No punchline here." Naruto said.
"Then a lie, one we are not amused by."
"I told you before, I never lie to you guys. You just never believe me."
"...You literally just told me the reason you guys were missing was because you were 'lost'." Tenten said, using her teammate's earlier words to try and catch his falsity.
"But we did get lost. When we were teleported back from, um...where we were, we didn't exactly end up where we left. It took us a whole day to find a landmark and another day to get back to Konoha."
From the looks he was getting, they still didn't believe him. Seeing that they weren't likely to find the truth from their teammate, they turned to the only adult in the situation, seeking authenticity. After removing the hand from her face, Kagero found three expecting Genin looking her way. She could have lied, yet she also found that the truth would serve them better in the upcoming exams than a lie would. Nevertheless, she settled for somewhere in the middle.
"It is true. He is the son of the Fourth. Everything else is confidential."
Watching the mouths of her Genin fall open in shock was, dare she say it, quite amusing—not enough to make her smile, but definitely something she didn't mind recreating in the future.
"Like I said, I never lie to you guys. You just don't believe me." Naruto said almost proudly.
"Th-th-that's because you say so much BS with a straight face that it's hard to tell if you're actually serious or not!" Tenten cried, exasperated. "Wait, if that's true, and you really never lie, then, then what else haven't you been lying about?"
"Quite a lot."
"Th-the Jinchuuriki part?"
"True."
"Going to another world?"
"Also true."
"Your sword being made from the bones of a dead God?!"
"Yyyyyep."
"Th-that the Second Hokage taught you the clone Jutsu in a dream?!"
"...OK, that was a lie, but I swear it was the only one."
"So, he is the son of the Yondaime." Neji tested the words on his tongue, not sounding dissatisfied with the discovery. "It makes a lot of sense, actually. Your talent, your leap in skill and knowledge at such a young age, you were born of higher cloth from the very beginning."
"...I got to where I am because of hard work, not because of who my dad was." Naruto stated somewhat defensively, conveniently leaving out the fact he had more advantages in his arsenal than any living human being to date.
"Regardless of his heritage, you must understand the dangers going into this exam." The Jonin said firmly, bringing attention back to her. "Uzumaki, understand that your name alone is a resource most villages would throw lives away to obtain. We are not only leaving the village, but going to another, where other villages will be sending their respective teams. What makes this particular exam more dire is one village in particular that will be attending."
"Suna?" Naruto guessed, not understanding her urgency.
"Iwagakure, the Village Hidden in the Rocks." Kagero revealed. She expected a reaction, but the lack of one told her her student didn't fully understand. "In the Third Shinobi War, Iwagakure and Konoha served on opposite sides of the war. During it's climax, Namikaze Minato, the Fourth, killed over 10,000 Iwa Shinobi in one battle, ending the war and forcing Iwa into submission. Many died because of that battle, creating many orphans and even more who still hold a grudge."
The Genin's expression fell flat as the weight of the woman's words began to set in.
"Oh."
A history lesson from their Genin days suddenly became crystal clear in their heads.
"Oh..."
The battle of the Great Tsushima Canyon, and the final skirmish of the war. A battle that ended the Third Shinobi War and was led by the Yondaime. A battle that was a decisive victory for the Leaf and its allies.
"Oooooooh..."
And a battle where the Yondaime was said to have fought 10,000 enemy Shinobi, sparring only 100 to tell the tale.
"...We're screwed, aren't we...?" Tenten summed it up nicely.
"I do not know if they will act during the exams, but I cannot rule out the possibility." Kagero said, doing nothing to alleviate their new fears. "If I were in their shoes, I would seek vengeance. Sins of the parent carry through generations, and in Iwa, Namikazi Minato is considered the devil, as well as everyone who lives in Konoha."
"But didn't they start the war?" Naruto asked.
"It does not matter if they did it, they didn't. History is often altered to better suit a government's agenda. I doubt many Iwa-nin know that they joined the war due to their own leaders' greed and hatred of Konoha, yet the same can be said about any nation. We go to war when our Hokage demands it, and as soldiers, we have no say in our next course of action."
"If you know that, then why sign us up for this exam in the first place? Wouldn't it be safer to postpone our promotion for another 6 months?" Neji said logically.
"There is more banking on this exam than just your promotions—things I am under oath not to reveal to anyone."
"I think if anyone has a right to know, it would be the team whose lives are on the line." Neji preached with some heat in his tone.
"And in a perfect world, you would be right. However, you are not regular civilians. You are Shinobi. Soldiers of the Leaf. As such, your life belongs to the village. If you are sent on a mission to die for the village, then it is your duty to fulfill the parameters of the mission to your dying breath. No matter the cost. It is the Will of Fire."
"Sounds more like a bastardization of what the Will of Fire actually stands for." Tenten said, vitriol of her own slipping into her tone.
"I am not here to argue the morality of what is expected of a Shinobi of the Leaf. My point is, you all will be attending the Chunin Exams whether you wish to or not." Kagero stated firmly, not leaving any room for further debate. "In the upcoming exam, four major villages will be in attendance. My job is to make sure you understand the dangers you are going into and are prepared accordingly."
A sigh left her lips at her last words.
"Unfortunately, our last mission has taken what little time I have with you down to none at all. In truth, there is very little I can teach you in three days that will be even remotely useful in the exams. Thankfully, I believe you all to be far and above your peers in turns of combat capability, so I have no doubt that you shall excel in the coming exams."
The random complement was a surprise, a rarity that they didn't think they would ever be uttered from the woman's mouth in the near future.
"I have nothing to teach you, however, that does not mean I am incapable of preparing your for what you are to expect in the exam." Saying that, she reached behind her and pulled out two scrolls. "In these scrolls holds records of Iwa Shinobi and every Kekkai Genkai that we are aware of. It also holds their techniques and strategies often implemented in teams. It comes straight from T and I, and has officially been stamped by the Hokage himself. It may not help you when you are trading blows in the arena, but it will at the very least prepare you for any surprises and counter to them."
Finishing her briefing, she handed them the scrolls, the trio accepting with an equal amount of surprise.
"We will begin training in the morning. In the meantime, look over those scrolls. You will find it difficult to remember everything you read, but it should be enough to keep you alive should you-"
The Jonin suddenly seized up at the sight of something behind them. It wasn't even a second before she suddenly dropped to a knee before them, head down and fist to the ground in a show of reverence.
"Th-the heck?" Tenten startled. It wasn't until they all heard the clanking of wood against the ground that they all turned around.
Walking towards them was a man that exuded the aura of a seasoned veteran. He wore a long, black robe that covered everything other than the cane he was using to walk. Half of his face was hidden behind bandages, while his remaining eye held the intensity of a thousand men.
"Danzo-sama." Kagero acknowledged his presence.
"Kagero. Hyuuga. Higurashi... Uzumaki." Shimura Danzo greeted, his lone eye falling on each but lingering on Naruto far longer than the boy thought necessary.
"Uh, hi, Danzo-sama?" Tenten greeted, unsure of the man's importance or the proper way to greet him.
"Apologies for my intrusion. I caught wind that my heir and her Genin had returned safely and was curious to see them with my own eyes." He said, revealing his importance with the title he gave their sensei.
Shimura Danzo, the head of the Shimura Clan and Kagero's father. The man himself wasn't very known to those not of higher rank, but his title as Clan Head alone was enough to garner respect, a fact Tenten and Neji no doubt knew as they both bowed their heads in unison.
"You honor us with your presence, Shimura-sama." Neji spoke for them, seeing as he was the only one familiar with how to greet those who were his betters.
"As you were." He acknowledged the gesture while his lone eye never left the only one who had yet to bow. As the Genin returned to their previous state, his eye finally left the Jinchuuriki and went to the rest of the team. "This may not mean much from a stranger, but I am glad some of Konoha's best assets have returned home."
"Your words mean the world to us, Danzo-sama." Kagero said proudly. "We were just making preparations for the Chunin Exams if you wish to observe."
"That won't be necessary. I am only here for you. We have much to discuss and little time to waste." Without hesitation, the Jonin acknowledged the order before standing tall once more. She looked turned to give orders to her team but was beaten to the punch. "You three are free to rest however you see fit for the rest of the day. Consider it a reward for your hard work."
Without another word, the old man turned, Kagero eagerly following behind and leaving the Genin in their stagger.
"Wow, thanks, old man."
The words had Danzo stopping on a dime. Tenten and Neji looked to their blonde teammate in astonishment, while Kagero's eyes turned nearly murderous at the lack of respect towards the head of the Shimura Clan.
Slowly, Danzo turned, his lone eye borring into the boy's placidly confused orbs.
"Tell me, Uzumaki. What are your ambitions?"
The question caught him off guard—expecting a scolding, not a question. It came as such a surprise that it took him a moment to even answer the question.
"To change the world." He answered honestly, his answer slightly modified since his fight with Orochimaru. He waited to be challenged, to be called foolish or childish. Instead, the old man stared silently, the air becoming more tense as the seconds ticked by.
None of it happened. In fact, the man didn't utter a word. He simply turned and walked away, taking their Sensei and the awkward silence with him.
"...You guys wanna get some Ramen?"
The blonde was rewarded with a light slap upside his head by his female teammate.
"I suppose it can be my treat for once. We did just get our pay for the S-rank." Neji said with a shrug.
"I'll go, but only because I want to know more about where you two got off to!" Tenten said eagerly as they began their walk out of the compound.
Meanwhile, the clacking of cane again wood echoed through the compound as the Shimura head and its heir walked towards a more secure location.
"He has the eyes of someone who finally understands the world for what it is." Danzo spoke in the silence, a hint of approval in his tone.
"Hai, Danzo-sama. From what I've gathered, he was personally responsible for neutralizing Orochimaru's personal guards. I also have reason to believe he witnessed the aftermath of Orochimaru's experiments. I believe it has changed him for the better." Kagero replied.
"That is good." Danzo intoned. It was a shame to lose Orochimaru and his vast assets, but he served his purpose in the end.
Soon, they turned into a room with his heir, its decor revealing it to be his own. The moment they were inside, the door closed, and a sealing array lit up the room briefly before dimming. Only when it was done did the old man begin to speak again.
"Now, tell me everything of relevance before I meet with Hiruzen."
Without hesitation, Kagero repeated everything in her report to the Hokage, not leaving out a single detail. Throughout it all, Danzo remained stoic, completely unmoved by the information, no matter how grim or outlandish the claims became. When she was finished, he carefully sorted through it all, picking out the important bits and eventually landing on one particular matter that he needed her insight on.
"You say that this Eisner woman is still in this 'other dimension', no?"
"Hai, Danzo-sama."
"And what is her current location?"
"I know very little, sir, but from what I have gathered from their closed meeting, the Archbishop intends to use her to ignite a war. I believe her purpose is to rid their world of any who opposes changes to their system while using herself as a martyr. Following that, they plan for the heiress of the Adrestian Empire to battle the Jinchuuriki 'slaying' her and rising as its absolute authority as one said to be blessed by their deity. I know not the intricacies of their plans to accomplish it all, but I do know they wish for the conflict to span at least 2 years—maybe less."
Danzo hummed at that, the information not questioned considering the source.
"And you say Uzumaki is the only one capable of reaching this world?"
"From what I gather, yes. It is my understanding that it is his natural summoning realm..."
"...Is there something you wish to add?" Danzo asked, noticing the woman's hesitance.
"It's just... sir, Uzumaki believes himself to be the vessel of their dead goddess. He says that she appears in the form of a child and gives him the power to manipulate the very fabric of space and time. I do not sense a lie in his chakra, but I believe that is because he truly believes it."
"And why do you believe this to be a fabrication?"
"Because he has displayed none of the abilities or the knowledge necessary to perform such feats. At most, I believe him to be a medium, but nothing more."
Danzo nodded, a hand finding its way under his chin. Regardless of whether that were true or not, the fact remains that the Jinchuuriki is currently out of their reach. That did not at all fare well for the future of Konoha.
"If I may, Danzo-sama, an opportunity to control the Jinchuuriki isn't entirely out of the picture." That certainly got the War Hawk's attention. "Though the Jinchuuriki is out of reach, her father is not. In fact, we do not need Uzumaki to reach him. As part of a deal, Uzumaki has sheltered her father within a location of his choosing. It will be difficult to obtain him, but not impossible. With proper preparation, we can have him here within the month. However, we run the risk of upsetting one of our allies."
"There are no allies in our world, only assets." Danzo asserted firmly. "I will give you the proper forces. Use them as you see fit. When the time comes, we shall bring the Jinchuuriki to heel. Am I understood?"
"Hai, Danzo-sama." Finishing with a salute, Kagero disappeared in a swirl of leaves.
Left alone in his chamber, the man's thoughts fell on the young Jinchuuriki. Though he was not yet ready to take the position of Hokage, he was steadily growing closer. The Chunin Exams would no doubt break any remaining misconceptions he had about this world and put him on the proper path towards the Shimura clan's greatest achievement.
"Well, there's a face I haven't seen in a while!" The ramen shop owner greeted his number one customer as the boy entered his establishment.
"Long time no see, Teuchi-san. I brought friends." The blonde motioned behind him, his teammates entering shortly after.
"Ah, Tenten! It's good to see you again! And a new face as well?" Teuchi greeted his teammates, Tenten giving her own greeting while Neji simply nodded as they all sat around the counter.
Seeing that introductions were in order, Naruto took the initiative. "Teuchi-san, this is Neji. Neji, this is God."
The old man laughed heartily at his introduction. "Please, call me Teuchi. Don't think I've done nearly enough to earn such a title!"
"Don't mind him, he's just modest. If we had a Hokage for food, then Teuchi-san would have my vote."
"Ahahaha! Stop it, ya little rascal! You're making this old man blush!" Teuchi said, sheepishly rubbing the back of his head from the continued praise. "Tell ya what, the first bowls of the usual for you and your friends are on the house! It's the least I can do for my #2 customer."
Naruto smiled at that, the promise of a free meal always putting a smile on his face.
It wasn't until the words fully set in that he blinked owlishly at the ramen shop owner. "Since when did I get demoted?"
"Ah, a couple months ago, Ayame found this sweet thing while out on a supply run. Brought her back, dropped a few tears, worked a few nights, and the rest is history!" Teuchi finished with a laughed, his hands never stopping as he prepared dinner for the Genin. Despite the heartwarming story, Naruto's deadpan expression never ceased.
"...You traded my years of loyalty for a pretty face?" The blonde accused.
"What? If you'd seen her, I bet you'd do the same!" Teuchi stated in his defense. "Now that I think about it, she's your age—in the academy, even. Sure you'd like her too if you met."
"...Is it just me, or is the old man sounding more like a creep?" Despite Tenten whispering and even going the extra mile to cover her mouth, the old man still overheard—spluttering as he turned to point his cooking utensils angrily at the girl.
"She helps with grocery shopping and work while all you two brats do is eat me out of business! If you want to be #1 again, then start helping out more, brats!"
His peace said, he turned back to continue working their free meal, thinking hard on whether or not to remove the 'free' part. Thankfully, they kept his name out of their mouths until he was finished, grabbing the bowls of Miso Ramen and placing them before the hungry Genin.
"Here ya go! Three Miso bowls with extra chasu and pork on the house. Enjoy!" Teuchi said, wiping his brow and taking a seat himself. The children wasted no time grabbing their chopsticks, their eyes hungry as all at once they let out an 'itadakimasu' before digging in. Watching as they slurped up the noodles, his life's work, made enduring the insults all the more worth it in his eyes. "So, what do ya think, kid?" His question was aimed at the Hyuga, seeing that it was the boy's first time eating at his establishment.
"It is salty, but adequate. Much better than others I've tasted in the past." Neji answered after some thought, finishing another mouthful before continuing. "I can see why Naruto comes here. The quality is above average, though nothing compared to what I am used to."
"Right? This is some good stuff. Just the thing I needed to unwind before we step back into hell." Tenten chimed in, caressing her cheek as the flavor rolled over her taste buds.
"Hearing such praise brings joy to this old man's heart." Teuchi said in spite of the final comment. "So, what big adventures have you three been getting up to lately? I know you have a few stores under your belt by now."
"I wescued two pwincesses." Naruto spoke with a mouthful of pork and noodles, much to the old man's amusement.
"Cah ywo pwease noh tawk wit yer mouf full?" Tenten asked somewhat hypocritically.
"We recently finished a mission and are on our way to the Chunin Exams." Neji said, opting to swallow before attempting to speak.
"Ah, that time already?" Teuchi said, sounding wistful.
"Yep, we're set to be in Suna by the end of the week. 3 days to prepare, three days to arrive. Gonna be killer on our legs, but I'm definitely ready for that promotion!" Tenten hyped, her voice holding a certain enthusiasm.
"Not everyone will make Chunin, Tenten. It is likely that two, maybe even one of us will succeed while the others are left behind." Neji said, getting a flat stare from his teammate.
"Way to ruin the atmosphere." Tenten said somewhat vacuously.
"Don't be like that, kid. I'm sure all of your hard work will be noted by the higher-ups." Teuchi reassured.
"I prefer to be more realistic than optimistic, Teuchi-san. My skills mean nothing if the powers above do not think me ready for the position of Chunin. I hope to succeed, but I must also be prepared if I don't."
"You will." Heads turned towards Naruto, the boy slurping up the remainder of his noodles before looking towards his teammates. A look of confidence and determination shone brightly in his eyes, an air of assurance surrounding him. "You guys will pass. All of us will. We're the best of the best, and if they try and keep you from passing, then they're gonna hear from me."
The confidence in his words and tone caught them off guard as much as the intensity behind his statement. He was completely serious, and that made them both a bit more confident, even if neither would show it.
"We're back!" A voice called from the back, getting the Genin and Teuchi's full attention.
From the entrance to the back, two figures walked in. One was of average height with brown hair and black eyes, wearing a white kimono under a blue apron with a white bandana covering the top of her head. Her smile was bright and her steps light as she entered with a bag full of groceries.
The other was shorter, barely taller than her companion's chest. Blue hair was all the Genin could see at first, the strands going all the way down to her shoulder. Around her forehead were bandages, speaking of an injury. Her outfit was similar to the brunette, but where her kimono was white, hers was blue. The biggest distinction was her eyes, a pupilless shade of lavender very similar to Neji's.
And speaking of the Hyuga, he was frozen—his mouth open and eyes glued to the blue-haired newcomer.
"Ah, I was wondering when you two would return." Teuchi greeted the duo, both smiling warmly at the man.
"Sorry, Dad. We got caught up on the way back. You wouldn't believe how long the lines are getting these days." The brunette explained, her eyes moving over the counter and noticing the group of teenagers sitting before them. Her smile widened upon meeting the blonde's eyes. "Naruto-kun!"
In a flash, the groceries were put down and Ayame disappeared into the back before reappearing behind the Genin to engulf him in a hug.
"Hey Ayame-chan."
"Hey to you too, stranger! Where have you been? It's been months! You didn't even come by for after you passed, Mr!" Ayame accused, squeezing the boy tightly.
"Sorry, got caught up in stuff and then got caught up in some more stuff. I really didn't have time to visit." Naruto tried explaining, but to no avail.
"That doesn't mean you get to go ghosting on me, you hear?! Next time you disappear without a word I swear we'll disown you!"
"Alright, alright. Now can you please loosen up? You're choking me." The boy pleaded, but the girl conveniently decided not to hear pass the first sentence.
Movement to their right was the only thing that made the girl release her hold to turn towards the source. Neji was standing, a glare now on his face, and aimed squarely at the girl on the other side of the counter. Despite his clear hostility, the bluenette maintained her smile, not at all affected by her peer's demeanor.
"Something wrong, Neji?" Tenten spoke up, hoping to find the reason behind the staredown. Unfortunately, he did not answer, but it did get a reaction out of him.
Breaking their staredown, Neji turned to the shop owner and spoke, "Thanks for the food, but I've lost my appetite."
Before anyone could react, he was gone, leaving the rest in silence.
"...What was that about?" Tenten had to ask.
"Please do not blame Neji-san. I deserve his anger and more," the bluenette spoke, her tone low and a hint of guilt in her tone. "Neji-san...I failed him. Because I am a coward, I can never truly help him. I wish things were different, but I can't change the past."
Her words did little to explain the situation. Instead, they only raised more questions, most importantly being, "And you are...?"
The question was answered with a genuine smile from the bluenette before her head dipped in a bow.
"My name is Hyuga Hinata from the branch family of the Hyuga Clan. It is very nice to meet you, friends of Neji-san."
"Oh!" Tenten suddenly exclaimed in excitement. "I remember you! You're the quite girl back from class 2-C! The Hyuga princess! I knew I've seen you somewhere!"
"Please, Hinata is fine. I'm happy you know me, but I can't say I know either of you." The girl said, her smile still in place upon lifting her head.
"Ah, I'm Higurashi Tenten." Tenten introduced herself courtesy.
"And this cute little guy here our former #1 customer, Uzumaki Naruto." Ayame did the honor of introducing the blonde, said blonde who did not at all seem phased by her 'generous' introduction of himself. In fact, he was too focused on a very important aspect of the girl.
"So you're the title thief." He accused, a hint of anger in his tone if one knew how to look for it.
"I-it was not my intention." Hinata defended herself, her hands up and shaking slightly as if preparing to deflect his wrath.
"Hey brat, stop scaring our #1 customer!" Teuchi jumped to the girl's defense, followed closely by his daughter who once again tightened her hold on him.
"Ayame-chan, you're choking me again."
"What are you talking about? A big, strong Shinobi like yourself can take a little love from a young, civilian lady like me."
"This feels more like attempted murder..."
"Now, now, that's no way to talk to a lady." Tenten joined in on the fun, a grin of her own in place. Naruto was not amused.
"Y'know we sleep in the same room, right? Like, you have to sleep tonight, remember?" Naruto threatened, because what else would be the meaning behind those words?
"WHAT!" Ayame and Teuchi suddenly exclaimed, the old man jumping from his seat to peer closely at the blonde from over the counter while Ayame did the same from over his shoulder.
"SINCE WHEN DID YOU TWO BRAT/KIDS TIE THE KNOT?!" They said in unison.
Immediately, Tenten's face grew volcanic, steam coming from her ears and all. Not from embarrassment, mind you, but anger. "THAT'S NOT WHAT HE WAS GETTING AT YOU NOSY MORONS!" She screeched.
"WHAT ELSE ARE WE SUPPOSED TO THINK WHEN TWO TEEN LIVE UNDER THE SAME ROOF IN THE SAME ROOM! YOU'RE JUST BEGGING FOR GOSSIP TO SPREAD!" Ayame yelled back.
"OUR BUSINESS IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS YOU VULTUROUS PIG!"
"WHO THE HELL YOU CALLING A PIG YOU SNOT NOSED SHORTSTACK!"
"I DON'T SEE ANY OTHER PIGS AROUND BUT YOU, PIGGY!"
As the argument went back and forward, it drew the attention of nearby patrons, some even pointing and giggling at the spectacle taking place inside the Ramen stand. Teuchi tried his best to intervene, but did not seem to have any success in his venture.
Hinata looked on from behind the counter, unsure if she should, or could interfere.
"So, you're a princess, huh?" The voice came from over the countertop, right next to her. The blonde Genin was not sitting in the once unoccupied seat of her cousin, looking at her with an air of curiosity. Looking back to wear he was once sat, she found an empty seat. I used a flicker when no one was looking, if you're curious."
Indeed she was. She hasn't even known he'd move since Ayame covered her vision. Even if he had, surely she would have caught even a glimpse of him appearing in her peripheral. Either she needed more training, or the blonde was more skilled than his age led on.
Nevertheless, she decided to turn her attention to him fully. "In a sense, I was. Unfortunately, my succession to Clan Head was recently revoked, so I can no longer consider myself such."
"Why's that?" he asked.
"There were several reasons, the biggest being the fact that my father along with the elders deemed me unfit to lead the Clan... A fact I can only blame on my cowardice." She looked down wistfully as a hand went up to touch the bandage wrapped around her forehead. "This...is an eternal reminder of how much of a coward I used to be. It is also a reminder that I must get stronger no matter what, and prove that even a weak coward like me can become strong."
Her gaze lifted, her hand falling back to her side and her face never losing its smile. To the blonde, it looked, dare he say it, cute.
"Those are really good goal. I hope you achieve everything you put your mind to." He said, giving the girl a smile of his own.
"Th-thank you..." she stuttered, not expecting someone she didn't know, a Shinobi no less, to acknowledge her ambition. The smile that had dropped momentarily returned in full force as she asked, "Your name was Uzumaki Naruto, correct?"
"Yep." Naruto answered promptly.
"Once again, it's a pleasure to meet you. I, hope I'm not being too forward, but I would like it if we could become...friends." Her voice trailed off at the end, the girl seemingly becomin more meek. Despite not trying to, her hands came up to poke her fingers together in a habit that was hard to break. "I...don't have many, and I think we would-"
"Sure, I don't mind." The blonde interrupted before she could continue, reviving her stutter.
"Wh-j-just like that? Y-you don't want to hear my reasoning?"
"Is it important?" He asked with a tilted head. "Friends are friends, and you can never have too many. The more the merrier, right?" He stated simply, as if it were common sense.
Hinata stared, not entirely sure how to respond. Eventually, she nodded, her smile somehow even brighter as she bowed. "Hai. Then I look forward to our friendship. Please take care of me."
A/N: Felt this was a good place to stop. There was more conversation, but didn't want to jack up the word count.
I know what some of you may be thinking, but Hinata is NOT a romance option in the story. There's a reason she's here it's not to add to Naruto's potential love-interests. It will be the same for two other characters That will have an important role in the second half of the story.
The next chapter we shall be in Suna and the start of the Chunin Exams. I plan for it to be only five to six chapters long, but I've never been good with pacing so we will see how that goes.
sickboy398 and BrianGellar01: I understand your concerns with Naruto's character and I hope the next few chapters are to your liking. Trust me, I have every intention of breaking Naruto's character completely and going a completely different route when it comes to the end of this story. Hope you stick around for it!
As always, thanks for the follows, favs, reviews and have a DAMN good day!