Disclaimer: I do not own any of the content following this statement. Masashi Kishimoto owns all titles, names, and plots.
And He Shall Rise
The water churned violently, boiling and bubbling as an angry red glow emerged from the depths. White foam hissed and evaporated into mist, and the once-calm sea erupted into chaos. Waves crashed against the cliffs in fits and bursts, fiery tendrils flickering sporadically through the mist. The shinobi surrounding Ino instinctively pulled back, their eyes wide with confusion and fear as they peered over the edge, unable to comprehend what they were witnessing.
Fu landed lightly behind Ino, her wings buzzing as she steadied herself. Without hesitation, she grabbed Ino by the arm, pulling her to her feet and guiding her several paces back. "We need to move," Fu urged, glancing nervously at the crumbling cliff, which was slowly being consumed by the raging ocean below. The water, once a serene blue, now glowed an ominous red—not with blood, but with an otherworldly light emanating from the depths.
"What the hell is going on?!" Temari shouted, forcing her way through the group. Her voice was sharp, cutting through the rising chaos, but she skidded to a halt as the ground in front of her cracked and crumbled. She leaped back just in time as a chunk of the cliff broke away, plummeting into the seething waters below.
"Naruto… he fell…" Ino's voice trembled, her words broken as she fought to pull herself together. Her body shook uncontrollably, her mind spiraling with fear and confusion.
Her father, seeing her distress, rushed to her side and wrapped an arm around her shoulders. His other hand pressed gently to her temple, his chakra flowing into hers as he linked their minds. "Focus, Ino," he said softly, his tone firm but calming. He worked quickly, using a mental technique to rebuild the jutsu that shielded her emotions, bringing her back from the edge of panic.
Ino blinked rapidly, the tears still falling, but her breathing began to steady as the connection took hold. "It's him," she murmured, her voice a mix of certainty and dread. "I know it's him..."
The water boiled and hissed louder, the red glow pulsating with an unnatural rhythm that made the air itself feel heavy. Steam rose in angry plumes, obscuring the view below, but the light cut through the mist like a beacon. The shinobi pulled back farther as the cliffside continued to crumble, the once-solid ground falling into the roiling, glowing abyss below.
Fu held onto Ino tightly, her wings buzzing with tension as she glanced toward the edge. "This... This isn't normal. It's chakra I have never felt before its something massive." Her voice wavered, but her grip on Ino was firm, steadying the woman as she clung to her side.
Temari, her fan already half-open, scanned the group and shouted, "Everyone back! Now! The ground isn't safe!" Her voice carried the authority of someone who had weathered battles far worse than most, but even she seemed unnerved by the surreal sight before them.
Ino's father, his hand still pressed to her temple, spoke quietly but urgently, "Focus, Ino. Breathe. Whatever's happening, you need to center yourself, become the Josei Senshi the clan needs right now." His voice softened as he felt the chaotic storm of emotions swirling in his daughter's mind fall away like the cliff side replaced by something else something unstoppable.
"It's him!" Ino blurted out, tears drying on her face as she grabbed her father's arm. "It's Naruto! I—I can feel it, He's down there!"
Temari's head snapped toward her, eyes narrowing. "What do you mean? He's—" She stopped short, looking back at the glowing sea. The waves now seemed to pulse with fury, the once-organized rhythm of nature disrupted entirely.
Before anyone could respond, a loud crack resounded through the air as another chunk of the cliff gave way, tumbling into the glowing depths. The red light flared brighter, and for a moment, it looked as if fire was erupting from the ocean itself, burning away the mist in an instant.
"Get back!" Fu yelled, grabbing Ino's arm and pulling her farther from the crumbling edge.
The shinobi scrambled, retreating as far as they could without completely abandoning their position. Yet, despite the chaos, no one could look away from the angry, glowing water.
Then, a sound cut through the crashing waves and hissing steam—a low, guttural roar, deep and otherworldly. It reverberated through the air, shaking the very ground beneath their feet.
"What the hell is that?" Temari shouted, her fan fully extended now, her knuckles white as she gripped it tightly.
Fu's eyes widened, her voice barely above a whisper. "That's… not fully human."
The water below churned violently, and then, with a deafening explosion, a massive column of fire shot into the air, parting the sea below and revealing a figure rising from the depths. The red glow seemed to radiate from the figure itself, its outline distorted by the swirling energy that surrounded it.
"Naruto!" Ino screamed, breaking free from Fu's grip and rushing forward, only to be stopped by her father's firm hand on her shoulder.
"Ino, stop!" he commanded, his voice sharp. "We don't know what's happening yet. That may not even be him."
The figure continued to rise on a column of energy, the fire and light intensifying with each passing moment. As the mist cleared, the unmistakable silhouette of Naruto became visible—but he was different. His body seemed to pulse with raw, fiery chakra, his hair lifting slightly as if caught in an unseen wind. His eyes glowed an unnatural red, and the marks of the Nine-Tails spread across his skin in jagged, chaotic patterns.
The group stood frozen, watching in awe and fear as Naruto hovered above the sea, his feet barely touching the fiery column of energy below him. He looked at them, his gaze piercing, unreadable.
"Naruto!" Ino called again, her voice strong and commanding, the voice of the Sōsui leader of her clan.
Naruto's form was primal, exuding an overwhelming sense of raw power that seemed barely contained. His body was cloaked in a fiery yellow chakra, the aura flickering and shifting like living flames. The energy radiated with such intensity that it distorted the air around him, creating rippling waves of heat and force.
His physique was more muscular and defined than usual, his skin marked by jagged streaks of crimson that pulsed with the energy of the Nine-Tails. His arms and legs bore a faint fur-like texture, a dark, feral contrast against the glowing chakra cloak. Long claws tipped his fingers, sharp and menacing.
Naruto's face carried an untamed, almost beast-like quality. His whisker marks were thicker and more pronounced, darkened by the energy coursing through him. His eyes burned with a feral red glow, the slitted pupils a stark reminder of the Fox's influence. His hair was longer and wilder, spiking outward like a mane, with streaks of fiery red blending into his usual golden strands, giving him an almost otherworldly appearance.
Behind him, nine tails of pure chakra lashed out, each one a blazing extension of his power. They moved with a life of their own, whipping and swirling in unpredictable patterns, exuding both beauty and terror. He floated up to the cliff top and landed softly the ground beneath him cracked and burned as the energy radiating from his body seeped into the earth, marking his presence as unstoppable and undeniable.
This form was not just a transformation—it was a fusion of man and beast, of raw, natural chakra, and the primal power of the fox. Naruto stood as something greater, something terrifying—a merger of natural chakra and the power of the fox. He was a fusion of beast-like strength and the unstoppable energy of nature itself.
"Naruto!" Ino called again, her voice strong and commanding, the voice of the Sōsui leader of her clan.
"Stop this right now," she demanded, her tone firm as if she could command the mountains to move and the sea to part. "This is enough—you don't have to do this."
Naruto's head snapped toward her voice, his feral gaze locking onto her. For a moment, the air seemed to still, the fiery chakra tails lashing behind him pausing mid-motion. Like a blind man just learning to see, he blinked, his glowing red eyes flickering before softening into the familiar blue she knew so well.
Taking a hesitant step forward, Naruto seemed to gather himself, the overwhelming energy around him beginning to recede. One by one, the blazing chakra tails dissolved into the air, leaving only faint trails of heat. As he moved closer, his form became clearer, and Ino's breath hitched.
He had grown—noticeably. Naruto now stood at least a foot taller, his broad shoulders and muscled arms exuding raw power with every subtle movement. He loomed over her, his presence undeniable, magnetic. The primal, commanding energy he carried touched something deep within her, awakening a feeling she couldn't quite place. This was the alpha—there was no greater force.
"Ino?" Naruto asked, his voice low and uncertain as if he wasn't sure whether he was awake or dreaming. "I... I don't know how to control this yet."
Ino stepped forward, closing the distance between them, her gaze steady despite the weight of his transformation. She reached out, placing a firm hand on his chest. The heat of his body was almost overwhelming, but she held her ground.
"Then learn," she said, her voice unwavering. "Learn fast, Naruto. And come back to me..." She hesitated, her eyes flicking toward the others gathering behind her. Her lips pressed into a thin line before she added, "To us."
Naruto followed her gaze, his eyes landing on Temari as she approached cautiously. The oppressive force that had kept everyone at bay had faded, and the other shinobi were slowly regrouping, watching him with equal parts awe and fear.
Temari's expression was guarded, but her posture betrayed her lingering tension. "Naruto," she said sharply, stopping a few paces away. "Are you... you again?"
Naruto turned to face her fully, his towering form casting a long shadow over the ground. His blue eyes met hers, steady but tinged with uncertainty. "I think so," he replied, his voice soft but firm.
Temari crossed her arms, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied him. "Good. Because we've got a battle to fight, and whatever that was—" she gestured to the sea behind him, still faintly glowing with residual chakra, "—we need it controlled. Understand?"
Naruto nodded slowly, his gaze dropping briefly to the ground before rising again. "I understand."
Ino stepped back, her hand lingering on his chest for just a moment longer before she let it fall. She glanced at Temari, then back at Naruto, a small, knowing smile tugging at her lips. "We're not losing you now," she said, her voice softer but no less firm.
Naruto took a deep breath, the weight of his transformation pressing down on him like a physical force. His body, larger and more powerful than ever before, felt foreign as if it no longer belonged to him. The energy coursing through him, the sharpness of his senses, the dark power from Orochimaru's teachings—it was all there, tugging at his mind.
For a moment, he stood still, surrounded by his allies, but the world felt different. Their faces, once filled with camaraderie and trust, now seemed like pieces on a board, tools to be used in the grand scheme of things. They're all expendable, a part of him whispered, the teachings of Orochimaru ringing in his ears. You don't need to protect them. You need to control them and mold them to your will.
The thought sent a cold shiver through him, and he clenched his fists, struggling to push the words out of his head. He had always fought for people—to protect them, to save them. But the power surging through him now made everything feel distant as if everyone around him was just an obstacle in his path.
Is this what I'm becoming?
In his chest, something tightened. A sense of guilt, of dread. His old self—the Naruto who fought for others, who valued bonds and camaraderie—fought back. No. You're not like this. Don't let this power consume you.
But the influence of Orochimaru, subtle and insidious, lingered in the corners of his mind. Why fight so hard for people who will only hold you back? The voice whispered again. This power is yours to control. Use it to shape the world as you see fit.
Naruto's head snapped up, his breath shallow. The struggle was visible in his eyes, as the internal war raged within him. His gaze flicked to Ino, Temari, and the others, who were watching him with concern and caution. Their faces were full of hope, of belief in him—in the Naruto they knew. But could he still be that person? Could he protect them the way he used to? Or was he becoming something else entirely?
The weight of it all threatened to crush him. His heart pounded as his thoughts collided—I need to be strong. I need to protect them. But this power, it feels so different…
"I defeated this dark side once before, and I will do it again," Naruto muttered to himself, his chest heaving as he fought against the rush of memories and power threatening to swallow him whole. "But this time, it wasn't just some dark inner self. It was real. I listened, I learned, I gained skills. But this... this isn't me."
The words felt heavy in his chest, but they brought a clarity he hadn't had before. The power, the influence that Orochimaru had tried to instill in him—he could feel it, like a weight around his soul, pressing down on him.
But just as he felt himself teetering, ready to give in, the presence of the Nine-Tails surged inside him. A low, rumbling voice echoed in his mind, the fox's words like thunder against his consciousness.
"Tools," the fox's voice boomed, deep and unwavering, like the sound of a storm rolling across the horizon. "You have more tools, more jutsu... but you are still you. This does not change who you are."
Naruto stiffened, the harshness of the words cutting through his confusion. For a moment, he could feel the fox's immense power inside him, yet it wasn't demanding control—no, it was steady, calm. The fox wasn't forcing him, but guiding him.
He felt the presence of the Nine-Tails more clearly now, like a giant paw gently placing itself on his back, steadying him, reminding him of his true strength. He had always been more than the sum of his power, more than the techniques or the lessons he had learned from others. He was Naruto Uzumaki, the one who fought for bonds, for a future, for those he loved.
And the fox's next words were simple, but they hit him like a wave crashing on the shore: "Now let it go. All of it."
Naruto blinked, looking out over the sea, the glowing waters now swirling with an unnatural energy. The land around him was still—the natural world waiting for him to release the chaotic chakra he had gathered.
"Let it go..." Naruto whispered, the words feeling foreign but true. The intense energy swirling inside him, the rage, the power—it wasn't his. Not anymore.
The fox's presence surrounded him, its essence guiding him not through words, but through action. Naruto took a deep breath, closing his eyes as the Nine-Tails showed him how to release the chakra. With a single exhale, he felt his chakra slip away as if he were letting go of a burden that had been with him for so long.
He extended his hands, and like a wave returning to the ocean, the natural chakra he had absorbed poured out of him, flowing back into the sea, the earth beneath him, the world around him. The raw energy, once twisted and uncontrolled, now balanced itself as it spread outward, settling the land and the waters.
His body, once towering and fierce, began to shrink back, the fiery chakra dissipating into the air like mist. The primal, beast-like energy that had surrounded him faded, leaving only Naruto standing in its place.
The glowing red that had overtaken him receded, his hair returning to its familiar golden hue, and the markings of the Nine-Tails on his skin faded away, leaving nothing but the raw, familiar presence of the Naruto everyone knew and loved.
In that moment, the fox's voice echoed once more, but now it was different—calm, almost approving. "You are Naruto. And this—this is your power, your choice. Always."
Naruto opened his eyes, looking down at his hands, feeling the normal pulse of his chakra once more. The power was still there, but it was his to control. And for the first time in what felt like an eternity, he felt like himself again—strong, but not consumed.
Ino, Temari, and the others gathered around him, watching in silence as Naruto stood there, his body restored to its familiar form. He wasn't a weapon. He was still the same Naruto who had fought for bonds and who carried the weight of his village and his friends.
"Boy, do I have a story to tell you," he said as he started walking back to the camp, finding Temari hanging from one arm and Ino on the other, both looking at him with wide, lustful eyes he didn't understand.
"So, what happened?" asked Fu once they were all seated around a campfire, breakfast being made and plates passed around.
"Well, one of my clones ran into Orochimaru," he started, telling them of the weeks of training he had received at the hands of the snake Sannin.
…
The tea room was serene, filled with the gentle hum of low voices as the women of the clans moved gracefully between seats, sharing whispered stories and delicate laughter. The scent of freshly brewed tea mingled with the faint aroma of flowers arranged meticulously in vases around the room. The sunlight filtered through shoji screens, casting soft patterns of light and shadow across the polished wooden floor.
The ladies spoke of their children's adventures—stories of Genin and Chūnin out on missions. Their voices were warm and full of pride, though carefully filtered. The more somber truths of life as a shinobi—lost friends and the grim weight of combat—were left unspoken. Instead, they shared the odd and amusing tales of youthful antics and the lighter moments of duty. It was a sanctuary of sorts, a space where the weight of the world could momentarily be set aside.
At the center of the room sat Hinata, poised and dignified in her royal robes of plain gray and black. The silk shimmered in the dim light, a quiet display of wealth and simplicity. Her understated elegance stood in stark contrast to the vibrant attire of the other ladies, who wore flowing fabrics adorned with colorful patterns. The purity of her attire carried weight—a deliberate statement that left no room for misinterpretation.
Across from her sat Karin, draped in black silk robes embroidered with intricate designs of a dragon and fox locked in an eternal chase around the hem. Her bright red eyes burned with intensity, tracking Hinata's every movement with the focus of a hawk. Karin's posture was deceptively relaxed, but the sharpness of her gaze betrayed the tension coiled within her.
The tea-making process commanded the room's attention. Hinata's hands moved with practiced grace, pouring the water, whisking the matcha, and preparing each cup with precision. The subtle clink of porcelain punctuated the quiet, each sound measured and deliberate. When she finally set a cup before Karin, the room seemed to hold its breath.
Hinata lifted her own cup, the delicate ceramic cradled in her slender hands. She took a single sip, her expression serene, before she finally spoke.
"I am here, not for you or your clan, but for Naruto," she said, her voice soft but resolute. The quiet strength in her words was as sharp as any blade. "I have heard your plans before, and until I hear them from Naruto's lips, they are just words in the wind."
Karin's grip on her cup tightened for a fraction of a second, her knuckles brushing the edge of the table before she steadied herself. Her expression didn't falter, though her eyes seemed to glow brighter, like embers stoked into flame.
"I expected nothing less from you," Karin replied, her tone cool but tinged with a calculated edge. She placed her cup down gently, the dragon and fox on her robe catching the light as she shifted slightly. "But let me be clear, Hinata: my plans are not whispers to be scattered by the wind. They are the foundation of what this clan—and this village—will become. Naruto entrusted me with this family, this legacy, and I will not let it falter."
The other women in the room exchanged subtle glances, their whispers quieting as the tension between the two women thickened. The peaceful atmosphere of the tea room now carried an undercurrent of unease, as if the air itself anticipated a storm.
Hinata's serene expression didn't waver as she placed her cup back on the tray. "Entrusted or not, Karin," she said, her voice steady, "you are not the clan head. Until Naruto confirms his intentions, your actions can be seen as nothing more than ambition. Do not mistake my quiet for consent."
Karin leaned forward slightly, her red hair catching the light as a faint smile tugged at her lips—a smile that didn't reach her eyes. "And do not mistake my ambition for recklessness," she countered. "I am building something that will endure, something that will protect all of us. Including you."
Hinata's pale eyes narrowed slightly, her calm demeanor unbroken. "If protection requires manipulation and deception, then it is not protection. It is control."
The words hung in the air, heavy and unyielding. Karin's smile faded, replaced by a sharp, calculating look. For a moment, the two women locked eyes, neither willing to look away, each testing the other's resolve.
Around them, the tea room seemed to still, the other women sitting motionless, their conversations halted as they watched the silent clash unfold. It was a battle without fists or jutsu—between the Red Dragon and the Iron Fist—a battle fought with words and presence. Each woman was a pillar of strength: one, the leader of an up-and-coming clan; the other, representing a venerable clan that had outlasted the ancients.
Karin broke first, as was expected. She finally leaned back, her smile returning, though it was laced with an undeniable edge. "Then let us agree to wait for Naruto's return," she said, her tone light but edged with steel, her red eyes flaring with unsaid anger. "Until then, I will do what I must to ensure my clan's survival, whether you approve or not."
Hinata inclined her head slightly, acknowledging the statement without conceding an inch. "And I will do what I must to ensure that your clan remains loyal to its true leader. The dragon will never outfox the fox." Her words carried weight, subtly reminding everyone of the motif Karin wore.
The tension lingered as they sipped their tea, neither woman willing to give ground, both fully aware that the battle between them was far from over.
…
The Inuzuka clan compound was unlike any other in Konoha. Tucked against the edge of the forest, it blended seamlessly into its surroundings, with buildings constructed from sturdy wood and stone, their exteriors covered in creeping ivy and adorned with symbols of the clan—paw prints carved into beams and painted onto walls. The air was alive with the sounds of barking, howling, and growling, the ever-present symphony of the Inuzuka's ninja hounds.
The compound itself sprawled out in a loose, organic layout, with large open courtyards for training and play. The earth was packed down from countless paws and boots, and the scent of fur and forest lingered in the air. Kennels lined one side, their occupants resting or watching the activity with sharp, intelligent eyes. The other side held the main living quarters, large enough to house not just the clan members but also their canine partners.
Tayuya walked through the main gate,she wore a short crimson haori, its hem and sleeves adorned with subtle black swirls that when you looked closely looked like foxes in a blood-red sky. Beneath it, she wore fitted black leggings and sturdy sandals, her outfit striking a balance between elegance and practicality. A thin, dark belt cinched her waist, accentuating her lithe frame, while her crimson hair was tied back in a loose ponytail, leaving a few strands to frame her sharp, determined couldn't help but smile at the chaos of it all—children chasing pups, older nin-dogs sprawled lazily in the sun, and clan members calling out orders or sharing laughs. It was noisy, alive, and completely unlike the structured confines of the Uzumaki compound. She would find a way to bring the children here to learn, to laugh and to play as all children should.
Kiba met her near the largest building, a central lodge-like structure with wide-open doors that led into a communal space. He looked as rough-edged as ever, his wild hair falling over his forehead protector, while Akamaru stood beside him, now fully grown and imposing, his white fur gleaming.
"You're late," Kiba said with a teasing grin, though his tone held a hint of challenge.
"Yeah, well, not all of us have the luxury of lounging around with mutts all day," Tayuya shot back, her tone biting but laced with a trace of humor.
Akamaru growled low, but Kiba placed a calming hand on his partner's head. "Careful, Tayuya. We're a little touchy about that word here."
Before Tayuya could respond, another voice cut through. "Enough posturing, you two," Tsume Inuzuka said as she stepped out of the lodge. The retired clan head still carried herself with the confidence of a battle-hardened shinobi, her graying hair tied back in a practical manner, and her feral smile sharp enough to unnerve most.
Tayuya gave a slight nod of acknowledgment, her sharp eyes meeting Tsume's. "Figured you'd be here too. Got a soft spot for family politics, huh?"
Tsume chuckled, folding her arms. "Let's just say I don't trust Kiba to handle things alone when it comes to Uzumaki business. You lot have a way of stirring up trouble."
"Yeah, well, trouble's my middle name," Tayuya shot back, but her smirk faded as her tone grew serious. "We need to talk. Clan business. And it's not gonna be pretty."
Kiba frowned, his teasing demeanor replaced with curiosity and a touch of concern. "Let's go inside," he said, gesturing toward the lodge.
The interior of the lodge was as rugged and practical as the rest of the compound. The large central room had a roaring fireplace at one end, surrounded by mismatched chairs and benches. The walls were adorned with trophies from past hunts and missions—claw marks etched into wooden panels, faded photographs of past clan members, and a few massive dog collars that looked more like artifacts than practical tools.
Tayuya took a seat on one of the sturdy chairs, resting her elbows on her knees as she leaned forward. Kiba and Tsume sat across from her, Akamaru lying down at Kiba's feet, his sharp eyes never leaving Tayuya.
"What's this about?" Kiba asked, his tone cautious but direct.
Tayuya didn't mince words. "It's about Karin. She's making moves—big ones. She's been talking to the other clan heads, trying to consolidate power. She thinks she can control the council before Naruto gets back." Her words were blunt and to the point.
Kiba exchanged a glance with his mother, his brow furrowed. "And you think we're next on her list?"
"I know you are," Tayuya said flatly. "She's banking on loyalty, promises, and that Uzumaki charm to sway everyone. But here's the thing—Naruto doesn't know. She's doing this behind his back, and I'm not about to let her screw him over."
Tsume leaned back in her chair, her sharp gaze fixed on Tayuya. "And what do you want from us? You're not here just to warn us—you want something."
Tayuya nodded, her expression fierce. "Yeah, I want your support. Karin's playing politics, but if the Inuzuka stands with me, and that means Naruto, she'll think twice before pulling any more of her crap. I'm not asking for blind loyalty. I'm asking you to back the person who's actually earned it, Naruto."
Kiba's eyes narrowed, and he crossed his arms. "And how do we know you're not just pulling your own strings here? This could just be another Uzumaki power play. The kids are calling you the Little Dragon that lives on top of the tower for good reasons"
Tayuya smirked, liking the idea that some feared her as she leaned back in her chair. "Because I'm not a politician, and I sure as hell don't play games. You know me, Kiba. I speak my mind, and I don't screw people over. This isn't fucking about me. It's about Naruto, the clans, and making sure we don't end up in chaos because someone got too ambitious."
The room fell silent for a moment, the crackling of the fireplace filling the space. Tsume exchanged another look with Kiba, her expression thoughtful.
"Alright," Tsume said finally, her tone measured. "We'll consider it. But if you're going to take on Karin, you'd better have a damn good plan. Because if this blows up, it's not just your head on the line—it's the entire Uzumaki Clan."
Tayuya's grin was sharp and confident. "Don't worry, I've got a plan. And when Karin falls in line, everyone will know exactly who they can trust."
Kiba nodded slowly, his expression still wary. "You're playing a dangerous game, Tayuya. Just make sure you don't lose."
Tayuya stood, stretching her arms above her head. "Dangerous games are the only ones worth playing," she said with a smirk. "Thanks for the chat. I'll see myself out."
As Tayuya walked out of the lodge, the afternoon sun hit her face, and the fire burning in her chest kept her moving. The Inuzuka weren't allies yet—but they weren't enemies, either. And that was enough for now. She only hoped Sakura had better luck talking to that junior pervert leading the Hatake clan.
….
Sakura stepped into the small, cozy home of the Hatake clan, the warm glow of the late afternoon sun spilling through the windows. It was quieter than she expected, the sounds of a child's laughter muffled by the wooden walls. Kakashi was seated on a tatami mat near the window, his familiar Make-out Paradise in hand, his silver hair falling lazily over his forehead protector as he read, completely engrossed in the pages.
"Still reading that perverted book, Kakashi?" Sakura teased, her voice sharp with playful mockery as she stepped inside and closed the door behind her.
Kakashi didn't look up, his calm voice responding as he turned a page. "You never stop calling it that, Sakura. It's literature. You should try it sometime."
Sakura rolled her eyes, but a sly smile played at the corner of her lips. "Maybe if you were reading something useful for once." She walked over and sat on the floor across from him, deliberately crossing her legs in a way that showed off her toned thighs, her short dress riding up just enough to catch his attention. "But I didn't come here to talk about your perverted books, Kakashi. I need your support for Naruto."
Kakashi set the book down, finally glancing up at her with a faint smile. His gaze softened, though his expression remained weary, a reflection of his time away from the frontlines. "Naruto is a good kid," he said, his voice carrying the weight of experience. "But you know I've stepped away from all of that. My clan's small, Sakura. We've got no political pull, no sway in the council. I'm simi-retired, and the world's moved on. I've got a family now."
Sakura's eyes narrowed slightly. "I know you're retired, Kakashi. But you're still a Hatake, and you still have influence. Naruto is facing battles bigger than just the ones outside the village—there are political games being played, and your clan's voice is one that could make a difference. I'm asking you to stop hiding behind your retirement and stand with him."
Kakashi leaned back, folding his arms as he stared at her. "Sakura, my voice in politics doesn't matter. You know it and I know it. Besides, we're too small to have any real say. There are larger, more powerful clans playing these games. I'm not interested in getting caught in the middle of it."
Sakura sighed, frustration creeping into her voice. "You really think that matters to Naruto? The size of the clan or the political games? You're the one who taught him about strength, about standing up for what's right, no matter the odds. Don't tell me you're going to sit on the sidelines and let Karin use Naruto like a pawn."
Kakashi's eyes darkened slightly, and he looked away, briefly glancing at the family portraits hanging on the wall. The quiet noise of a child playing in the next room echoed through the house, a reminder of the family he had built. "I have a family now, Sakura," he said softly, his tone more serious. "A daughter who needs me. I can't afford to get swept back into all of that. I've seen enough fighting, enough bloodshed, to last a lifetime."
Sakura's gaze softened as she watched him. She understood the weight of his words, the toll the years had taken on him. "I know it's not easy, Kakashi. But Naruto doesn't have the luxury of backing out. And you—you're the one who taught him to be the Hokage he's destined to be. You can't sit back and watch him do this alone."
For a long moment, Kakashi stayed silent, his eyes distant as he thought it over. Finally, he spoke, his voice carrying a quiet resolve. "I'm not one to get involved in these games anymore. But… I can't turn my back on him either." He stood, stretching his arms before looking down at Sakura with a small smile. "I'll support him, but not in the way you want. I'll help in the background, keep an eye on things, but I'm not going to wade through politics anymore. You'll have to fight that battle without me."
"Listen, Sakura," he said, his tone amused but serious, "you should know by now... it's all about looking underneath the underneath."
Sakura gave a small, resigned nod. "I figured as much. But I'm glad you'll at least keep an eye out. Naruto needs all the help he can get, and your advice still matters to him. Even if you won't step into the political ring."
Kakashi chuckled softly, a rare genuine laugh. "You're stubborn, you know that?"
Sakura grinned. "I learned from the best."
With a final glance at the picture of his daughter, Kakashi gave a small nod. "Fine. I'll watch from the sidelines, but you better win this for him. No one else can."
…
The afternoon sun cast long shadows across Konoha as Sakura and Tayuya stood in the village's heart, the shadow of the Hokage Tower looming over them. The hustle of the village swirled around them, but in this moment, their focus was sharp—on the political stakes and the power struggle brewing within the walls of the Hidden Leaf.
Tayuya stood, her arms crossed, her eyes scanning the surroundings, a subtle tension in her stance. "This place always stinks of politics," she muttered, voice low, but full of distaste.
Sakura, standing beside her, couldn't help but agree. The air felt heavy, charged with something unspoken. "It's not about politics. It's about timing," she replied, her voice steady but filled with determination. "If we let Karin take the Red Chair before Naruto gets back, she'll have too much control—more than anyone else is willing to deal with. And with three of the noble clans out of the village, it will only make things worse."
Tayuya turned to face her, the sharpness of her gaze matching the intensity in Sakura's eyes. "I get it. She wants to move fast and grab control while everyone's distracted. But we can't let her. If she gets the council behind her now, we're screwed." Her voice was firm, but there was a hint of frustration—impatience for action.
Sakura nodded. "Exactly. And that's where the Sarutobi clan comes in. Konohamaru's father— Tetsuro Sarutobi might not be in a shinobi, but he knows how to keep things in balance from behind the scenes. He's never been one for public politics, but his influence in Konoha's council could keep Karin's power grab in check until Naruto returns."
Tayuya raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing at the corner of her lips. "Konohamaru's dad, huh? The man who works in shadows, just like the rest of us. You think he'll listen?"
"I think he'll understand," Sakura said, her voice low and calm. "I am sure he has seen the games Karin's playing, and he knows that if she takes the Red Chair now, it could fracture the whole village. We can't let her have that kind of power—especially not with Naruto gone."
Sakura gave her a sharp look, her voice firm. "I agree. We're going to go to him, make our case, and make sure he knows that the clans need to stand together, not divided by her ambition."
The two women stood in the shadow of the Hokage Tower, the weight of their plan settling in. There was no time to waste and no room for hesitation.
"Let's go," Tayuya said, turning with a determined stride. "We'll talk to him, and we'll make sure he understands that until Naruto gets back, no one is taking the seat."
Sakura nodded, falling into step beside her.
….
The two women stood outside the gates of the Sarutobi clan compound, their presence contrasting sharply against the weathered grandeur of the estate. The gates, adorned with a faintly worn emblem of the Sarutobi clan, spoke of a history older than the village itself. It was said the Sarutobi were among the founders of Konoha, though their role had always seemed quieter, less central—at least, that was the story they let others believe. Their strength lay not in overt displays of power but in tradition, wisdom, and lineage. Though they rarely made waves in political or military affairs, the clan's name still carried weight, bolstered by the enduring legacy of the Third Hokage, Hiruzen.
"So knock already," Tayuya said, breaking the tense silence as she gave Sakura a firm push in the small of her back. Her crimson hair caught the sunlight, making her smirk all the more pronounced.
"Alright, alright!" Sakura snapped, swatting Tayuya's hand away. She stepped forward, adjusting her stance as if trying to steel herself. "You're the one who's so eager—why don't you knock?"
"Because," Tayuya said, her smirk widening, "I'm not the one who kissed up to Kakashi earlier. You're clearly the diplomacy expert here."
Sakura glared at her but said nothing. Taking a deep breath, she raised her hand and rapped sharply on the wooden gate. The sound echoed faintly in the quiet courtyard beyond, and for a moment, the two women stood in awkward silence, waiting.
"I swear," Tayuya muttered, glancing at the gate, "if they're as slow as their old man was in making decisions, we'll be here all day."
Sakura turned, ready to snap at her, but the sound of the gate creaking open cut her short. A middle-aged man, dressed in a simple yet elegant robe with the Sarutobi crest embroidered on the sleeve, stepped out. His demeanor was calm, his expression unreadable, though his eyes carried a quiet strength.
"Good afternoon," the man said, his voice measured and polite as he stood at the entrance of the Sarutobi compound. "What brings you to the Sarutobi compound?"
Sakura inclined her head respectfully, her tone calm but urgent. "We need to speak with Konohamaru's father, Lord Sarutobi. It's a matter of some urgency."
The man's gaze flicked briefly to Tayuya, who stood with her arms crossed, exuding defiance. His brow furrowed slightly at her demeanor, but he gave a curt nod. "Wait here," he said, before turning and disappearing behind the compound's heavy wooden gates.
As they stood in the growing shadows, Sakura leaned toward Tayuya, her voice low. "You could've been nicer."
Tayuya shrugged, her sharp eyes scanning the courtyard beyond the gates. "Yeah, well, you've got enough 'nice' for both of us," she muttered.
The minutes stretched uncomfortably as the pair waited, the weight of the moment settling over them. The compound was eerily quiet, the faint rustle of leaves the only sound beyond the muffled chatter of villagers in the distance. Finally, the servant returned, his expression composed but distant.
"Lord Sarutobi has received your request," he said, his tone cool and deliberate. "He understands what you wish to discuss but has decided not to involve himself in the affairs of the Uzumaki clan. Good Day."
Sakura's mouth opened slightly, the words catching in her throat. "But—"
The man didn't give her a chance to finish. With a short bow, he stepped back, and the heavy gates creaked as they began to close. The resounding thud of wood meeting wood echoed sharply, leaving the two women standing alone, staring at the now-barred entrance.
"Well, that's just great," Tayuya said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "What a waste of time."
Tayuya clenched her fists, her jaw tight. "This isn't over. He might not want to listen, but the Sarutobi clan never sits on the sidelines, I have read their history and they are almost as conniving as the Hyuga."
Tayuya smirked faintly, though the irritation in her eyes mirrored Sakura's. "For now, let's focus on finding someone who's not too scared to come out and pick a side"
Sakura nodded, her mouth hardening in a line. "Agreed. Let's go see Hinata." Her words echoed off the gate as she walked away.
"Oh, fuck," Tayuya muttered under her breath, hoping Hinata had gotten over what happened with her sister.
…..
The command tent buzzed with activity, illuminated by the flickering glow of lanterns and filled with the low hum of strategizing voices. At its center stood Mei Terumī, her commanding presence unmistakable as she studied a map spread across the table. The urn containing the Three-Tails held down one edge of the map, a constant and deliberate reminder of her grand plan. Her sharp green eyes swept over the markings, detailing enemy positions and the path her rebels would take to the shore to complete Project Calm Seas. Straightening, her auburn hair cascading over her shoulders, she turned and addressed one of her captains.
"Bring her in," Mei said, her tone steady yet laced with curiosity. "Let's see what this so-called deserter has to say."
The captain nodded, exiting the tent quickly. Moments later, he returned, leading a woman whose wrists were bound. She wore red lipstick, had fair skin, dark eyes, and light blue hair styled in a spiky ponytail with long strands framing her face. Her outfit consisted of a green dress with a long left sleeve and a short right one, a red turtleneck with a white, fluffy collar, and brown gloves. Under the dress, she wore a one-piece red suit. Mei noticed her calf-length brown sandal boots, now caked with mud from the endless rain. Cradled in her arms was a small boy with a pale face, framed by soft hair, who clung to her with wide, fearful eyes, his fingers gripping her clothing tightly.
"What is your name, and what are you doing sneaking into my camp?" Mei demanded forcefully.
"My name is Guren, and this is Yukimaru. I... we are running from Orochimaru," she said, glancing down at the boy in her arms.
Guren's composure was calm but guarded, her dark eyes wary. The murmurs of the other officers in the tent fell silent as Mei stepped forward, her sharp gaze scrutinizing the woman. Orochimaru was a name feared and hated even on this cursed island.
"You walk into my camp unannounced, carrying a child and claiming to be running from Orochimaru," Mei said, her voice calm yet cutting through the tension like a blade. "That alone is suspicious enough. Why should I believe you're not here as his spy?"
Guren adjusted her hold on Yukimaru, her jaw tightening. "I left him," she said simply, her voice steady but laced with exhaustion. "I couldn't let him use the boy anymore. Yukimaru deserves a chance at a real life, not to be treated as a puppet."
Mei's eyes narrowed, her skepticism clear. "And why would Orochimaru care about this boy?" Her gaze flicked toward Yukimaru, her tone incredulous. "What could a child possibly offer someone like him?"
Guren hesitated, then took a deep breath. "Because... Yukimaru has a rare ability. He can calm and control the Three-Tails."
The revelation drew sharp intakes of breath from the officers in the room. Mei's expression remained unchanged, but her eyes flicked back to Guren, calculating. "Control the Three-Tails? You expect me to believe that Orochimaru, of all people, let you just walk away with something that valuable? A boy who can control a Tailed Beast?"
Guren met her gaze head-on. "Not all Tailed Beasts—only those without a host. And Orochimaru didn't let me leave. I fought my way out. I was one of his most trusted servants, but I couldn't stand by and watch him destroy Yukimaru for his ambitions."
Mei folded her arms, her skepticism deepening. "You fought Orochimaru? Now I know you're lying."
Guren smirked as she raised her bound hands. Forming a quick seal, crystalline structures appeared around her restraints. With a deliberate shake, the crystals shattered into a thousand pieces on the ground. "I have the Crystal Release," she said coolly. "I fought off his men while he was away."
"And you came here, to my camp, expecting... what? Sanctuary?" Mei asked, her tone sharp.
"I came because I had nowhere else to go," Guren admitted. "And because I thought you might understand what it means to fight for something greater than yourself. If Yukimaru's power is real—and it is—I figured you could use it to turn the tide against the Akatsuki. You don't have to take my word for it. He can show you what he's capable of."
The tent fell into a heavy silence. Mei's officers exchanged uncertain glances, many of them casting wary looks at the urn containing the Three-Tails. Mei herself remained impassive, her expression unreadable. After a long moment, she stepped closer, her gaze flicking over Yukimaru, who stared back with wide, unblinking eyes.
"If what you say is true," Mei said finally, her voice cold and measured, "then this boy is not just a child. He's a weapon. And weapons... are dangerous in the wrong hands."
Guren's grip on Yukimaru tightened, her voice hardening. "He's not a weapon. He's a child. If you treat him like Orochimaru did, you'll be no better than him."
"Are you even listening to yourself?" Mei snapped, her tone sharp. "You offer him to me as a way to control the beast and then claim he's not a weapon. Then what is he to me if I cannot use him?"
"I will be your weapon," Guren replied, her dark eyes fierce as they locked with Mei's. "All I ask is that you let me care for Yukimaru and allow him to use his power only to help—not to destroy."
Mei's expression didn't waver, but for a moment, something flickered in her eyes—perhaps doubt, perhaps understanding. Children... a dream she had once allowed herself to entertain, and one she still hoped for in the future. She shook the thought away, unwilling to let it cloud her judgment.
She turned to her captain, her tone brisk. "Remove her restraints and set up quarters for her. But keep them under watch."
Guren inclined her head slightly, her expression cautious but grateful. Mei's next words, however, carried an unmistakable warning. "You'll have a chance to prove your loyalty, Guren. But if I find any reason to doubt you, no one will save you or the boy. Do you understand?"
"I understand," Guren said, her voice steady.
Mei turned back to her map, dismissing Guren with a wave of her hand. "Good. Now go. We'll speak again soon."
As the tent cleared, Mei's gaze shifted to a small toad hidden beneath the table. Without hesitation, she spoke in a low, commanding tone. "Send word—we move in two days."
The toad gave a quick salute before vanishing in a puff of smoke.
As Guren was led out, Yukimaru still clinging tightly to her, Mei's gaze lingered on the retreating pair. She wasn't convinced—yet. But if there was even a shred of truth to Guren's claim, the boy could be a game-changer. For now, though, she would tread carefully.
As Guren walked through the camp, her sharp eyes scanned every detail, taking it all in. She suppressed a grin. Her master's plan was unfolding perfectly, and soon she would have access to the power of the Three-Tails.
…..
Naruto stood at the edge of the cliff, the wreckage of his transformation still visible all around him. His body had become an extension of raw natural chakra, merging with the fox's energy that seeped through him, giving him power beyond anything he'd ever known. The power called to him, and he could feel it—like something inside him that was once anchored, now threatening to drift away.
Fu, Ino, and Temari stood around him, watching as he surveyed the damage. He had returned to his usual size, though he was still a little taller and more muscular than before. The primal, overwhelming force that had enveloped him had dissipated, but what remained was a quieter, almost unsettled Naruto—more himself, but also changed in ways he couldn't yet understand. The teachings of Orochimaru and the endless training in seals and jutsu felt more real now than the ground beneath his feet.
Fu landed beside him, her eyes full of concern. "You did it, Naruto. You brought it under control. That's what matters." He had told them all about his training under the snake Sannin, and the worry had filled their eyes. So much so that he had walked out of the camp to stand here, overlooking the sea.
He paced back and forth, kicking random rocks over the edge, deep in thought about what he had learned, what he had done, but more so about what he could do in the future.
Fu was the first to break the silence. "Damn, Naruto," she said, her voice filled with awe. "Even without that beast form, you're still... incredible. You've got something about you now, something that makes me want to be with you."
Ino, her gaze fixed on him, her eyes gleaming with a hint of admiration, nodded. "I wasn't sure what that transformation was all about. But now... you've got this power in you, and it's..." She paused, her voice lowering slightly. "I feel drawn to you."
Temari, usually the most guarded, crossed her arms as her sharp eyes softened. "You've always been strong," she said. "But now? Now, you've got the kind of power people can't ignore."
Naruto stood there, the weight of their words sinking in. He could feel the heat of their gazes, the intensity of their attraction—not just to the power he'd shown, but to him. Is this what they see now? he wondered, his thoughts swirling. He had always fought for bonds, for relationships, but now... now there was something different. He wasn't sure how to handle it, or if he even should.
"I didn't want this," Naruto muttered, his voice rough with uncertainty. "I just wanted to protect everyone."
Fu, her wings folded neatly behind her, placed a hand on his arm. "You're still you, Naruto. But now, you're more. You've got this power, and with it, you can do things you never thought possible. You're not just strong now—you've become a force. A force of nature." She started to giggle at the joke, and soon the others joined her. Natural chakra was deadly to everyone—except Naruto, it seemed.
Ino, standing beside him, leaned in slightly, her breath warm against his ear. "Maybe it's not about fighting it. Maybe you should embrace it. What's the point of having this power if you're not going to use it?" Her voice was almost playful, though there was a deeper, more genuine note behind her words.
Temari was the last to speak, her voice steady, but a soft edge lingered. "This power... It reminds me of Gaara when he was young. It's wild and free. It will let you do what you want, when you want. But it's not you. You're in control. Just don't forget that."
Naruto took a deep breath, his gaze flicking between the three women. "I won't let it control me," he said, his voice steady now, no longer clouded by doubt. "I'll control it. It's mine to use, but it won't change who I am. It never will."
He said the words, he heard them clearly, but deep down, he also remembered Orochimaru's teachings stirring inside him. The voice of the snake Sannin echoed in his mind, a reminder of the way the world could be reshaped by power. The world is changeable in so many ways, Orochimaru had once said. Those with power make their own rules. Good is recorded by the winner, not the loser.
The thought unsettled him. His instincts, honed by years of fighting to protect those he cared about, pushed back against the temptation to embrace this darker vision. But a part of him—the part that had trained under Orochimaru, the part that had learned how to control and manipulate—whispered that it could be so easy to change things, to force the world into a shape that suited him. If he had the power to control, to reshape, to rewrite the rules, wouldn't that be the easiest path?
He clenched his fists, trying to ignore the conflicting thoughts swirling in his mind. No, he reminded himself. I'm not like that. I'm not Orochimaru. Yet, as the power swirled within him, the temptation to wield it for his own gain was undeniable. Would he still be the same person after learning what he had from Orochimaru? Could he hold on to his old beliefs, or would this new power twist him into something more—something unrecognizable?
His gaze shifted back to the women around him—Fu, Ino, and Temari. They looked at him with a mix of admiration and expectation, but there was also something else: a silent question about what kind of man he would become.
Deep in thought, Naruto didn't notice Gamatatsu land beside him with a loud thud. The toad's yellow skin and orange markings stood out brightly in the fading light. His stomach rumbled as he looked up at Naruto with hungry eyes. "Got any treats? Been jumping all over the place, and I'm starving!"
Naruto looked up at the son of Gamabunta, the chief toad of Mount Myōboku. He checked his pockets and found an old piece of cookie, handing it over to Gamatatsu. "You never change, huh?"
The toad swallowed it in one gulp and gave a satisfied sigh. "Thanks, kid! So, listen up—Mei, the leader of the rebels, sent a message. In two days, the seas will calm. That's when we're crossing over to Water Country."
Naruto nodded, processing the information. "Two days... Got it."
Gamatatsu gave a wide grin, showing off his large teeth. "Anytime, Naruto! Now, how about some more snacks, huh?" He bumped Naruto lightly with his massive head, almost pushing him off the cliff.
Naruto laughed, finally feeling some of the tension ease. "Alright, alright, I'll get you something when we get back to camp." He looked out over the rolling sea, knowing that in two days, they would be on the move once again.
….
Author's Note: here are my notes on the children so if I lose track you guys can yell at me;-)
Naruto's Children:
Tayuya
Kureha - translated as "Leaf from Kure" or simply "Sent Leaf." Girl
Shinjiro (信次郎) – "True second son" (symbol of loyalty and strength) Boy
Karen
Homura (炎) – "Flame" Girl
Akari (灯里) – "Light" or "Brightness" Girl
Kazuha (紅葉) – "Red leaves" Girl
Homura (炎) – "Flame" Girl
Akae (朱絵) – "Red painting" Girl
Kurenai (紅) – "Crimson" Girl
Kaede (楓) – "Maple" (associated with autumn and red leaves) Girl
Arashi (嵐) – "Storm" Girl
Ame (雨) – "Rain" Girl
Jirou (meaning "second son") Boy
Temari
Kazuki (風希) – "Hope of the Wind" Boy