Episode Thirteen
Demon country; Open Sea
Seiken stands ahead of Naruto, prepared for the fight ahead. The two ladies, his family members, stand behind him, awaiting the order to strike. What the container and bijuu are about to do has only been theorized, with plenty of caveats, but it should be possible, in theory.
Before Naruto proceeded, he glanced back just as a shadow clone of his rose out of the water beside him, handing him a very familiar blade, which he took, allowing the clone to disperse. He took a moment to inspect the edge before presenting it to the rightful owner, who was surprised at its presence. Naruto spoke up, a slight inclination of jest in his tone. "Don't lose it again, Kiyota. They aren't cheap."
Kiyota takes the pitch-black katana reverently, staring at it fondly. Memories of first receiving it, of countless hours of training flash through her mind, along with the heartache at its theft and seeing it in the hands of her tormentor. She allows her chakra to pass through the metal, and the seals upon it flash up briefly, causing her to smile softly. "I will be sure not to let it go again."
Matching her smile, Naruto nods before getting serious again as he looks forward. Stepping up, he places his hand upon Seiken's back, where the chakra core on humans would be, and their chakra intermixes, allowing their thoughts to link. "Are you sure about this, Seiken? You know the second we..."
"I am sure, my Regent," her swift response, still smiling, her voice was unwavering, "though, I suspect both my dear Utakata, and big sister will have more than a few choice words for us both."
Naruto's chuckle could be felt by the six-tails, his agreement noted, as he takes a deep breath. "I think twelve minutes will be our absolute limit. I will eject you before that time or we risk damaging our individual connections with our own partners."
She nods in understanding. "Should be enough time."
"It should," Naruto confirmed as Karin noticed the flow of chakra, flowing from the new arrival to her fellow Uzumaki, and now realizing what they were about to do. Her eyes widened at that, not knowing this was possible, though continued to listen to them, with the blond continuing, "So, let's end this quickly. That Uchiha seems to think our family is his to use as he sees fit."
Seiken nods once before dissolving into white chakra that flows along Naruto's arm, flowing down to his seal and sinking into its depths. It was an unusual experience for both parties.
Unlike Kurama's chakra, which Naruto was used to dealing with, Seiken's felt far more silky, smooth, cool, and fizzy to the touch. It was most confounding to describe accurately.
For Seiken, the chakra coils Naruto has allowed a far easier transition and space to travel through his system and at greater levels than what she was used to in Utakata. Then again, his chakra too was even more adaptable, comforting, malleable, and yet was far denser, leading credence to his title as "The youngest Bijuu" by some.
She understood it even more now.
Main Shrine
Kurama was speaking with Mata, Yugito, and Shizuka about the fight with the snake sannin, and how close they had gotten to killing him, forcing him out of that pre-teen's body, when she sensed an invasion of her connection with Naruto.
She paused mid-sentence, bewildered for half a second, before growling and glaring towards the north, "That bitch and runt have some explaining to do when they get back here!"
Surprised by the sudden outburst, Matatabi asked, "Runt? You only call Naruto that when you are mad at him. What has…?"
"Seiken is in my sealed space," Kurama growled again, earning surprised looks from the non-containers, raised brows from both Yugito and Matatabi, with the latter asking, "She is? How unexpected. I guess his fight with that Uchiha is heating up enough to take such a drastic measure."
"Wait," Shizuka says, drawing all eyes to her, "can you guys do that with one another?"
Yugito shook her head. "Not that straightforward. There are conditions that need to be met for anything like that to happen. Up until now, it was only a theory that Shukaku, Son Goku, Chomei, Kurama, and Naruto had considered. However, I believe that only Son Goku and Shukaku are the driving forces behind it."
Matatabi nods to that, explaining further, "There are many stipulations and rules that govern the concept of inhabiting one another's sealed space, which largely depends on three factors: The container, their seal, and the bijuu they hold. For example, Yugi-girl can't hold Kurama, not enough space. However, Utakata-boy can handle my brother Isobu, but not my older brother Son Goku. He will struggle with Kokuo, but if it was an emergency, he might squeeze in."
Shizuka was contemplative for a while, digesting all this. It seemed that there was a level of compatibility involved, if she was understanding this correctly. "So, as Utakata is the holder of Lady Seiken, a six-tailed Bijuu of water and earth, he can handle the water-natured Isobu, who has fewer tails, but not you, as you have his opposing nature?"
Matatabi nodded firmly, leaning back in her seat at the table, arms crossed. "Exactly. Kirabi-boy can hold Seiken, Kokuo, and Isubu, but not Chomei or Son."
Kurama speaks up, "There is only one exception," growling the entire way, all eyes flowing to her as Matatabi nods, though allows her elder sibling to speak, "as the 'youngest bijuu' and with his terrifying amount of chakra, paired with being an Uzumaki, Naruto is capable of holding any of us. The only one that can hold my power safely."
"But," Shizuka said, still in thought, "aren't you of fire and wind with a minor earth, Kurama? Seiken is the complete opposite of your nature."
Kurama nods once, still sneering, "That she is. Like I said, my baka of a container is unique. Thanks to being the son of a jinchuriki, being an Uzumaki, and holding me his entire life, he has been formed into the ultimate container, able to house any of my siblings. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if his compatibility with Seiken was higher than with her own container."
Demon country; Open Sea
Naruto takes several deep breaths to get accustomed to the new sensations of having someone other than Kurama running through his chakra network and housing Seiken in his seal. The six tails was actually really comfortable, scarily so, far more so than with her normal container, but she knew better than to voice that. Naruto speaks, "Okay… chakra levels stabilised and settled… you ready?"
"Naturally," Seiken chirps joyfully within his head, as her chakra begins to swiftly synchronize with his, her silvery aura coating him, and his first-stage Bijuu cloak flickers into view, all six tails waving around. This time, instead of the furious reddish-orange everyone was expecting, it is an oozing, goo-like silvery white, his eyes a solid silver, as he looks between the snake sannin and the towering chakra construct. Seiken asks, "Who's our first target?"
"The snake." Naruto's response was immediate, no hesitation at all, but he elaborated for his partner's sake, continuing, "He wants to take over either my body or Shirin's. Though, that Uchiha plans on taking Koki. No doubt he is also concocting a crackpot plan to assault all the women of the family." Naruto growls threateningly, turning into a full-on snarl at the thought, and he can sense Seiken's contemplative behavior. Eventually, she nods, "Snake first, I agree. Then, the Uchiha...?"
"Play on his pride. Keep him engaged, but do not overcommit," Naruto informed as he finally looked back at his teammates, speaking aloud now. "Karin, Kiyota, stand back for now. I will lead the charge, but you'll know when to strike. I trust and believe in both of you."
They both nod, a growing warmth in Karin's chest, this is what she was missing all her life and will defend, and a heart fluttering in Kiyota's. The redhead responds, grinning confidently, "Kick his ass."
Naruto grinned, a foxy grin. "Plan to," he paused, as if remembering something, and looked at Karin, speaking conspiratorially, "Try the bird handsign after the Ram. You'll be surprised."
Karin nods at that; he must have read up on their chains with the amount of times she's seen him use them himself. She wonders briefly what will happen before noticing that he was gone, just gone, in a burst of pure speed.
Orochimaru was curious about the new arrival. Her chakra was dense enough to be a bijuu, but it lacked the sheer presence and chakra level. Yet, when the former fox brat placed his hand on her back, she evaporated into chakra and was absorbed by the boy. His eyes widened as he watched the chakra reach his empty seal and vanish within. Perhaps, he could use that.
His thoughts were cut short when he ducked aside, an angry foot replacing his head's previous position, a sonic boom erupting from said foot, and a sword slash followed, cutting through several snakes near his face. Coiling up, Orochimaru prepared to snap forward at Naruto, who was sliding to a stop, only for Sasuke's Sasunoo sword to smash down atop the blond.
Sasuke grinned; his power was clearly superior. Now, he had to deal with that snake freak who was trying to take over his body. The snake wasn't much of a threat to someone like him, an Uchiha. His might was unmatchable, but he was willing to be generous and grant the snake the honour of being slain by him.
Without warning, the Uchiha's chakra construct extended arm was yanked backwards, drawing Sasuke's eyes back to see those damn chains wrapped around his might, attempting to restrain him. Upon seeing Karin with a smirk, kneeling as she held a bird hand sign this time, he growls, "You bitch!"
Yet before he could react, a massive slash cut clean through the arm being restrained, severing it. The Uchiha's eyes were drawn to the smiling face of Kiyota as she passed by with her black katana in hand, its seals glowing faintly. Since when did it do that?
Nearby, Naruto seemed to be moving faster and faster, his six tails lashing out in perfect unison, leaving no space nor openings in his assault. Orochimaru ducked and slithered around, snapping out with snakes that were consistently melted by the deceptively quick, acidic, silvery-white chakra appendages that were supporting Naruto.
Ducking beneath a slash, Orochimaru spat venom as he withdrew, which simply evaporated harmlessly on contact with the chakra cloak as Naruto pushed through and on with his attack. Sieken would have scoffed if she was confident it wouldn't hamper her current host's concentration. She has made stronger stuff in her sleep, by accident. She halted those thoughts as that is not a story she wants her Regent to know about.
The snake's tail was lopped off, one of the many wind slices from the odachi, causing the beast to let out a screech before falling into the ocean below. The jinchuriki remained hot on his trail, speeding after the now clearly angered snake sannin. The pale white snake darted around, trying to find his attacker, who had been at his back a moment ago. Naruto was stalking him like a fox, a habit he picked up from his summons, but was using his Leviathan-like underwater speed to stay out of sight.
At about two hundred meters down, the snake turns back, realizing he'll have to surface soon, only to see a seemingly distant white blur to his left. He tracks it before it dives deeper and vanishes into the dark depths. Turning around, seeing no further signs of the brat, he makes a dash back to the surface, as his oxygen levels had just dropped below half.
Yet after only twenty meters, he was yanked back. A quick glance down revealed his tail wrapped in damn chains. His gaze followed them down into the darkness. Attempting to shrink to escape, another pair suddenly harpooned him, punching through his body. Hissing as he flinched from the invasion, Orochimaru reached for them, realizing exactly what these were: the Uzumaki adamantine chakra sealing chains.
Panic. Orochimaru was panicking as now, with these chains on him, he can't grow back to his larger size, meaning his speed and breath currently available has lowered, and even his tongue can't slip between the chains and his body in an attempt to break them via force.
This is also when he noticed the pain. His eyes widened, noticing the acidic nature of the chains. It was subtle and barely noticeable at first, but now it had entered his system. The tingle that he had ignored was spreading throughout both his entire blood and chakra circulatory systems. It had become increasingly painful, bordering on agonizing.
It wasn't poison; he's immune to all types. Rather, this was flesh-eroding acid, eating through his body via the chains pinning him, with nothing to cling to in the darkness. Looking up, he now realized something else.
The bubbles escaping his throat right now gave him greater perspective and confirmed his probable last grand theory. He was being dragged down further into the depths. Idly, he wondered how far down until his body is crushed. Would he ever be found? Perhaps he could be recovered. Then, what about the fox brat? Surely his breath must have run out long ago.
This is when Orochimaru finally noticed the form of Naruto Uzumaki, watching him calmly from a safe distance, arms folded across his chest, the white glow of his chakra cloak more vivid on the dark backdrop. Despite lacking strength, Orochimaru still moved his eyes to meet his blank eyes in time to hear his words, clear as day: "Orochimaru. You will die here. Forgotten. A myth of yesteryear. Down here, paired with my current partner's chakra acid, you will decompose silently and completely."
Naruto's hollow smile would be the last thing the old man saw: "Fear not, I can breathe down here. So, go on. Feel free to sleep. The shinigami is awaiting your arrival. Best not keep him waiting any further."
On the surface, Karin's chains were getting a full workout, and the bastard had no counter. Karin had deployed all the power she had and was surprised by how much strength she actually held. The towering Sasunoo was pinned by the might of her nearly fifty chains, and its operator growled as her partner, Kiyota, proved she too was a menace.
Sliding to a stop, the water kicked up. Kiyota stared back at the one-armed titan, eyes scanning for the next best target. Chakra pumped into her legs, and she exploded forth. The wind trailed her blade, a contour trailing behind as she cut the leg just above the knee.
Landing opposite, now with Karin at her back, she slides to another stop beside her fellow teammate. "This seems too easy… right?"
Karin nods. "He isn't stupid... What is he waiting for?"
Abruptly, the purple warrior began breaking apart and losing consistency, slowly fizzling away. This blinded Karin's sensory ability by flooding the area with the Uchiha's chakra, but that was before the sound of a thousand birds chirping at once rang out. Karin recalls this sound instinctively, her chains reacting without conscious thought. Hastily and with practiced precision, said chains formed a net at her back, catching the man and his lightning blade, not even reaching within a metre of her.
Kiyota was lightning quick in her response, appearing at Sasuke's side, katana slipping through the air, causing the Uchiha to duck and blast himself back clear of her follow-up downward slash. His back flip allowed him to go through one-handed hand signs, breathing fire at the duo.
Chains tear the fireball apart. The resulting smoke acts as a screen for the shuriken that begin ripping through the cloud. Kiyota and Karin leap clear, yet they seem to home in on them. The black katana makes its presence known and felt as Kiyota brandishes it with the expertise she was trained to have, slicing through the storm of steel with textbook precision.
Yet, as the speed and density of the storm were greater than Kiyota had anticipated, she was forced to back up, and began using her natural agility and flexibility to the fullest by ducking, weaving, and flipping between her slashes and cuts.
As the last ninja star fell, a glimmer of light caught her eye. Kiyota realised that most had ninja wires attached to them. However, as she had cut through them completely, they were no longer an issue for her. Karin, on the other hand, had defended with her chains, each being tangled up and yanked aside. The chirps echoed far and wide.
Karin was caught off guard when her chains were yanked aside and the familiar chirps reached her ears. She pulled out her tanto, though she lacked the confidence of her clansmen in this combat art as she typically attacked from a distance. That would not deter her, as blue sparks burst through. Sasuke's right arm thrust forward. She ducked and leaped back. He followed, throwing kunai the whole time, which Karin could handle deflecting with some effort.
Before long, Sasuke and Karin clashed, the Uchiha's kunai against Karin's tantō. His swipes were disorganized and lacked any real direction. Brute force was his plan, and Karin was desperately trying to stay ahead of it, deflecting the pressure, but it wasn't looking good, and she stumbled back. Sasuke's kunai was engulfed in lightning, and his dark grin said, "Die, bitch!"
Karin flinched, her eyes slammed shut, but the pain never came as Kiyota's black blade blocked the lightning-coated kunai. Sparks flew in all directions, but she held her ground. Her eyes hard as diamonds, Kiyota growled, "You won't harm anyone from my family anymore."
Sasuke cackled darkly, putting more strength and pumping more chakra into the kunai, his deranged glare on the shorter woman. "Well, you will serve me well. Sarada too will rule this..."
He froze upon seeing Karin's tanto cut through his exposed arm at the elbow. Sasuke stumbled back in shock, staring at his second stump of an arm, but he wasn't left that way for long, as Kiyota had spun and sliced up his chest. Another spin allowed her second slash to create a cross on his pale skin.
The three remained still, as if time itself had stopped.
Kiyota raised herself to her feet as Sasuke fell back into the ocean, about to sink until Karin's chains wrapped him up. Just as Naruto erupted up from beneath the waves, landing beside the other two, Spartan-style, the second he stood, the white chakra cloak peeled off him and Seiken appeared at his side, panting yet in high spirits.
The two leaned against one another as they looked upon the sight of a bound and barely conscious Sasuke Uchiha, tied by Karin's chains, and the blood on Kiyota's blade. It was clear he was enjoying his final moments, so Naruto offered, "So, you guys handled it?"
Kiyota nods once firmly, swipes the Uchiha blood from her weapon before resting it against her shoulder, resolve still holding firm. "Yes, sir."
Naruto looks at Karin, who looks just as fierce and determined. "Yeah. It was touch and go for a bit, but we managed. You guys?"
Naruto raised a hand, classic fifty-fifty shake, "He isn't coming back. Could of done better though, faster too. Though, the water pressure will prevent anyone from reaching him, the darkness will prevent his location from being discovered. The acid Seiken injected here will decompose him from the inside out."
Both girls looked at the second Jonin present of the Demon Country, who was smiling sweetly, despite the slight sign of tiredness. Seiken still maintained a calm, soothing smile that belied the true terror she could unleash on a whim.
Naruto's words drew their attention back to him as he unhooked a pocket, allowing a sealing scroll to drop into his waiting palm, and he tossed it to his little sister figure, who caught it effortlessly. Naruto instructed, "Kiyota, seal him up. We should get back and deal with that ship."
The Uchiha's Fist
Of the six missing ninjas, all were Jonin-level skilled, and for that reason, only two had been dealt with. The remaining four had managed to corner both Ino and Samui on the ship's prow. They were kind of sick of this already, but the two Mist shinobi, one from the Marsh, and the other from Taki, made a pretty good team, and their skills complemented each other nicely.
The former Missing-Nin stepped forward, a sick grin on his face, speaking up while holding the tanto that belonged to Samui. "Just surrender, girls. We'll show you a good time. I've noticed how you," pointing the blade at Samui, "seem to be uncomfortable in the chest area. I am a generous man and would be happy to alleviate your pains. No doubt your back could use my tender loving care."
The other three chuckled darkly, and neither kunoichi showed any sign of allowing such an outcome to transpire. Ino idly wondered where the hell the three Hyuga were. Surely they had cleared out the rest of the ship by now. Perhaps Naruto and his clansmen had finished off the snake and traitor by now too. Her chakra was low but not dangerously so, and although she had a water nature, her repertoire of ninjutsu is limited and overshadowed by the two Mist Jonin. Same with her comrade's sword skills; that's how she was disarmed.
Thankfully, help had arrived. The sound of a thousand birds rang out, drawing attention to the starboard side of the vessel. Six shinobi sped towards the vessel at high Jonin speed. The sound was coming from Kakashi Hatake, who was leading the group. Leaping up to the vessel's railing, he punched straight through the first Mist shinobi.
The second former Mist shinobi darted forward at him, only for Yugao Uzuki to clash against his sword with her own, and a kenjutsu clash broke out. Next to land was Tsunade, followed by Sakura, Shikamaru, and Chōjūrō, who immediately clashed with the Marsh shinobi. Both swords clashed, but it wasn't even a contest.
"Sorry we're late," Tsunade spoke lowly, glancing back at the two younger kunoichi briefly before watching her shinobi dispatch the missing ninja. Kakashi finished his leader's intro with his own spin. "We got lost on the road of life."
Before the Hokage could reprimand her Jonin, "Crescent moon dance," was heard, and the second Mist Jonin was downed, a clean bisection from Yugao, followed by a swift clean and re-sheath of her katana before the man's head rolled. A scream snapped all eyes to those Marsh shinobi who had just lost an arm, then a leg, before a slice clean through his chest. Chojuro with a perfect trisection, muttering, "Not even a challenge."
The final opponent was a Taki shinobi whom Kakashi had already subdued and was sitting on, as he lay facedown, bound, and unconscious. No one saw how he did it, just that his book was out, and his grey eye was scanning the smut he had pulled out.
It was the end of an exciting day, to be sure, an explosive opening to the founding festival that none would forget. As the new team gathered around Tsunade and the blond duo, the Hokage asked for a status update, "So, exactly what happened out here? All we heard was that the Regent was engaged in a fight out at sea against an enemy warship. If that signal is correct, then Sasuke is here, no?"
Samui and Ino both nodded to Tsunade's questions, with Ino speaking as Sakura tended to her wounds. Samui had refused. "Yes. We got separated when the ship opened fire as we approached. Though, we did catch the opening engagement, and Naruto had summoned a sea monster to fight against the Uchiha's snakes."
Tsunade raised a brow at the mention of sea monsters, but she asked anyway, "Then what happened?"
Ino continued swiftly, "Hiashi made the call for us to assault this ship. After our initial boarding, he led his daughters below deck with Samui here, agreeing to clear and hold the deck until Naruto returned."
Tsunade looked at Kakashi. "Kakashi, take Shikamaru and Yugao to link up with the Hyuga and get a report."
The three rush off below deck, and Tsunade looks to Ino and nods, "Continue,"
"Well," Ino began as Sakura finished treating the major wound on her leg, "the bulk of the thugs weren't any issue, just the six Jonin hidden among them. We managed to kill two, one was from Kiri, the other Suna, but those four were bouncing their ninjutsu off one another, and the Mist's swordsmen were familiar with Samui's sword style, so we were up against the wall until you showed up."
Chōjūrō spoke up, arms crossed, "Any idea where Naruto is now?"
Samui responded coolly, "There was a lot of chakra usage towards the northwest, a bright purple glow too. It stopped so, it should be cool."
Chōjūrō nodded, glanced back over the horizon, and acted as look out for a few minutes of silence.
Over the next ten minutes, the Hyuga returned topside, with the numerous baby mothers Hiashi had discovered behind that door. They were all in pretty bad shape. Hinata and Hanabi brought out the prisoners held aboard, including the former captain of the vessel.
Fifteen minutes later, Chōjūrō would spot movement in the distance, and his stiffening posture was caught by Hiashi, who activated his Byakugan and spotted the returning four. "The Regent and his troops are here."
This caused Samui and Ino to stand, with the bulk of the shinobi heading to the port side to watch as Naruto led back Karin, Kiyota, and Seiken, all looking tired but in good shape, along the ocean surface.
It did not take long for the foursome to reach the ship, landing atop its cleared deck, Naruto followed by Seiken, then Karin and Kiyota. The Regent spoke first, "Sorry we took so long. That snake freak showed up and was a bit of a hassle."
Tsunade spoke next. Everyone else was wide-eyed. "Orchimaru was here? What happened?"
Naruto shrugged casually. "Sent him to sleep with the fishes. We won't be seeing him again."
Many raised their eyebrows at that, yet it was Sakura who spoke up, "Did you fight Sasuke-kun? Is he...?"
"Dead?" Naruto offered with a cold, arctic glare at the pink-haired woman, who flinched under the tone. "Yes. The Uchiha is dead…"
Kiyota and Karin stepped forward. The former spoke first, "He attacked us first, almost killing us on several occasions."
Karin spoke next, "He has caused more problems than most nations have in their entire history. I once gave him everything, and yet he tried to kill me the one time I said no and stood my ground."
Kiyota followed, hoping to put the nail in the coffin for this delusional pink-haired girl, "If we had let him live, he would have come after our family and performed acts I dare not even consider. Putting him down was a mercy."
"But," Sakura sighed before nodding, understanding that she had seen what this ship, and the horrors it contained. She may have loved the man, but his actions were unforgivable. So she sighed hard again, going back to tend to the woman at her feet.
It would take a scant few hours before the vessel entered the port and the emergency status was lifted, and the party began again. Naruto, under Seiken's careful watch, organized the assistance of the prisoners and captives alike. The few surviving enemies of the former crew of nearly three hundred were handed to the samurai for processing.
Before they left, an unusual sight appeared before Naruto's party. A very serious Utakata, staring hard at his brother in all things. Letting out a tired sigh, Naruto nods, "You know, we should have the talk back at the shrine. Save me from repeating myself."
Utakata nods once, "fine."
The shinobi fell into step with the others, and the Leaf team was more than a little curious about what was going on. Though they followed after the Regent, who took to the trees, his guards in tow.
Oni no Kuni – Town
The group arrived at the town, as early evening had settled in and the music was in full swing, with the sounds of a festival. Passing through the gate, Naruto turned to the Leaf contingent, "This is where we part ways. Please enjoy yourselves, especially since your own stall is no doubt making a killing."
Tsunade nods, before Naruto turns to Ino, "I will await your clan's response."
Ino bowed her head. "Thank you, Regent."
Naruto nods before leading his own towards the northern shrine. As they left, Tsunade looked at Ino, "So, you met with Naruto earlier? Is that why you were out there?"
Ino nodded. "Yes. It was an informal meeting I crashed with the Hyuga," she shrugged. "I managed to interrupt the Hyuga from gaining a monopoly on the flower exports."
"Was this at the shrine?" Tsunade pressed. Her fellow blond nodded, Ino confirming. "Yes. We spoke over lunch and hashed out some of the details."
"Did you learn anything we could use? Locations of guards, strength of their shinobi, the building's layout...?" Kakashi asks. Ino frowns, "It never came up."
Tsunade raised a brow. "Never came up?"
"Never came up," Ino replies with a shrug, continuing, "We spoke about flowers and tea exports. The dividends and such. Clan business basically."
"I see," Tsunade sighs, though Kakashi looks unconvinced, voicing his concern, "Did you eat with his family?"
Ino shrugged again, trying to keep her word. "Like I said, it was an informal lunch where we discussed things regarding our clans."
"I get that," Kakashi says, but this time Shikamaru cuts in, noting that his troublesome blond friend is getting irritated at the persistence. "Leave it, Kakashi. She has already said that it was clan business."
Main Shrine
Naruto arrived back at the shrine, his party following him in. Sure enough, Kurama was standing there with a serious face, arms crossed and eyes glaring at her baka container and little sister. "You have some explaining to do."
Naruto sighs out, gesturing to the former Mist shinobi at his side. "No shit. Why do you think Utakata is here?"
Looking to the Hyuga group, Naruto continued, "This is a private matter now. Please prepare a document with your proposal for us, and we shall review it tomorrow during the official committee meeting."
Hiashi nods, inclining his head, "Of course, until later then."
Naruto nods back, watching the Hyuga head towards the guest house when a yell from there catches everyone's attention. Without words, the group rushes over to the guest house.
Guest House; Hyuga Residence
Hiashi was first in, followed by Hinata and Hanabi. Seeing the place a ruined mess, his fellow Hyuga were covered in feathers from the duck feathered pillows. A middle-aged woman was hanging by what appeared to be a rope trap, desperately holding her kimono closed to maintain her modesty. Naruto would have pegged her at the upper end of double-d's, thinking idly.
There were general signs of chaos all around: feathers of various kinds, sticky surfaces, gum, spit balls, tennis balls, a bowling ball, and that is most definitely a crow bar. Huh. I didn't think anyone would use that particular prank. It was only a theory he had proposed to the Kitsune council a few years back. Guess its kinks were worked out.
Naruto and Kurama arrive next, sliding in with hands on swords, prepared for anything. Yet, upon seeing the carnage, both relax. Hiashi speaks, "What happened here?"
His father appeared, a clown wig atop his head, matching makeup on his face, forcing Naruto to look away, as did Karin and Honoka, as they tried desperately not to laugh at the old man. Kurama held no such reservations, grinning like a fox, openly taunting the man who responded to his son, "That beast is a menace! Do not let its small size fool you. I did not know what it was, but that thing is no..."
A meow was heard, and the man froze, all colour draining from his face, as a small British Shorthair cat came down from the second level, with all the innocence of a saint that could do no wrong. But upon seeing those deep blue eyes, Naruto had to smother his smirk ruthlessly. He knew this cat, trained by Kurama and himself, but mainly by Kurama, along with the other Kitsune in the art of espionage to use against Matatabi as a sleeper agent.
That plan never came to fruition, scrapped after a discussions between the fox and the cat clans pulled through. However, this kitten has stayed with the Kitsune and has only been growing more mischievous by the day.
Though it also explains the state of the house, which no doubt has been its playground as he was bored, paired with its rather liberal use of strategic grade innocence makes for a truly feared agent of chaos and destruction on par with most Anbu. Neh, Naruto would put this particular feline on par with a full Anbu squad, maybe two if catnip is promised.
The cat's meow drew Naruto's attention back to the room, but it also caused the Hyuga who had remained at home to break into a cold sweat, their face's going pale. Though its innocent expression was wreaking havoc with the female sense of sensibility, Hinata bent down to pick up the cat that was now purring loudly. Naruto thought that level of purring was a bit overkill, laying it on a bit thick, but then again, he wasn't one to criticise his subordinate's choices.
Hiashi looked around at the carnage once more. His clansmen were all staring with pure terror at the cat his eldest was now holding. He did not want to judge prematurely or jump to conclusions, but he had to ask to be sure. "Do you mean this cat?"
His father nods once, afraid his voice might give that demon a new target to ensnare.
Hiashi looked from his father to the grey-furred cat, currently being stroked by both his daughters, though he noticed Naruto's hand blocking the Uzumaki ladies from approaching. So, Hiashi asked, "Regent. Do you know…?"
Yet before he could finish, Naruto barked, "Agent Kao Morino, report."
The cat slipped from Hinata's gentle embrace, stepped before Naruto, and sat on its haunches. For a full thirty seconds, Naruto and Kurama stared at the cat, which stared back. Everyone watched in bewilderment at the fact that this cat seemed to be a trained ninja cat, but unlike the others, it was a normal house cat turned into a ninja.
After a while, Naruto sighs, pinching his nose, "That was not your objective, and you know it."
Kao meowed in protest. Naruto glared at the grey-furred feline. "No excuses! Your mission was clear and simple. So, don't give me that 'parameters unclear' crap."
Kao meowed again, but Naruto's glare had not lessened, Kurama cut in here, hand across her Baka of a container's chest, "Leave it be. Kao, the mission is over, and the area cleared from lockdown. You can leave now."
The cat erupted in smoke, returning to the kitsune planes, as all eyes looked at the Regent, who sighed and glanced around at the small amount of chaos he could see in the room. Without any words, he exited the house, and the second he did, he burst into laughter, along with Kurama and his fellow Uzumaki. That was golden.
Main Shrine
The fighters of the family, including the extended members, gathered at the kitchen table. The only people not present were Shion, Mitsuri, and Kalia. The kids were also in the next room, though the Kurama clansmen were present for some reason. Fu had returned from another sweep of the southern region, just prior to Naruto, and was sitting there silently cursing a storm for not returning sooner.
Naruto, who was sitting at the table's head, had been reporting the fight up until Seiken had arrived, which Kurama and Utakata were both waiting for. Naruto continued: "That is when Seiken kicked the chakra arrow away, then landed beside me and I explained the situation."
Kurama raised a brow, her arms crossed just like her legs were, "Which was?"
Seiken, who was standing at Naruto's side as the second one in the firing line, speaks next, "With you outside the seal, our concern was that if the snake had realized this, he might figure out a way to exploit that weakness."
Kurama and Utakata both fell into contemplative silence at that, it made sense, though Gaara did ask, "Are you sure he was going to take over your body?"
Naruto nods grimly, a slight shudder at the thought, "Yeah, he was pretty upfront about that after he realized that he had escaped Kurama and Matatabi. Which meant that he now had a chance to take over my body without having to worry about my tenant."
More than a few others grimaced at the thought, though Yakumo had to ask, "Why would he want your body exactly? What makes you so ideal?"
Shizuka spoke up, in place of her husband, "Have you heard about the circumstances surrounding Naruto's birth?"
Both Kurama clansmen recall the missions from the night before and his title of "The Youngest Bijuu," nodding in confirmation. Shizuka continued, "That is why. If this man was able to take over my husband's body, he would potentially have access to nearly unmatched chakra reserves with great control over them. Maybe somehow, through their connection, access to Kurama's chakra too."
Many shuddered at that thought; it was a crazy amount of power Naruto had on him at the time. Surely enough, Kurama growled menacingly, "Like I'd let that thing anywhere near my chakra. My baka of a container may be holding half of it for me, but it is still mine."
"Well," Utakata says, gaining the other's attention, he shrugs looking to his brother then tenant. "It doesn't matter now. I am over it."
Gaara nods, looking at Shukaku. "Any input?"
Shukaku shook his head, "It was a preventive measure. It wasn't out of malice, and the concern was valid. We have never thought of a countermeasure against any of our seals for uninvited visitors."
Karin speaks up, now that it's been mentioned, "That's a good point. Is that even possible to do?"
The one-tailed thought about it. This was an interesting conundrum and would no doubt lead him into a new field of study. Shukaku began to make scribbles on a paper, speaking distractedly, "It should be."
Yugito spoke up, curious about this enemy. "So, what did you do with him after you two joined like that? It must have been interesting, yes?"
Naruto nodded, though Seiken raised her hand to her faintly dusted cheeks, and all were reminded of the fact that Seiken can be sadistic at times, especially when acids are involved. Naruto explained, "Well, after we separated the two bastards..."
Seiken suddenly spoke over her temporary container, "It was surprisingly easy to move my acidic chakra, and I was able to shift my chakra to melt off his snakes. They hissed and whined all the way down to the atoms, you know. Truly, they were resilient."
She sighed, leaning into her palm, before continuing, as if in a daze, "Then, when he dived beneath the water, I had never moved that fast below the surface of the sea. Yet again, I was surprised at how compatible my chakra was with those Uzumaki chains. I managed to mix it with my own, almost one to one."
Kurama smirked, nodding at her perfect host. Though the Uzumaki duo were surprised by that information, as was a certain Nibi, who spoke next, "Curious. I wonder what..."
Naruto's eyes narrowed on the kitten, eyes of a frozen wasteland, causing the two-tailed cat to stiffen, her tails still and puffed, now only realizing she had failed her task. His voice was as cold as his gaze. "Matatabi. If I recall, I told you to kill that thing before lunch, did I not?"
Meekly and softly, head held down, Matatabi spoke, "You did."
"Then," Naruto said, still staring at the woman, "why did Seiken and I have to finish him off?"
Mata looked away, mumbling beneath her breath so that barely anyone caught it. Naruto growled deeply, causing the woman to flinch, as he spoke, "I told you how important this was. That our family was at risk, and you still played around? What is your excuse this time?"
Yugito cut in, hissing at her brother, "Knock it off, brother. She messed up. We get it. But..."
Naruto growls back at his sister, "Messed up? Sister, the kids were in the firing line this time around."
"We were here!" Yugito growled back, snapping to her feet. "Do you not trust us?"
Naruto was about to argue back, but Shizuka grabbed his arm, and he snapped at her. Her frown paused his growling, and he bit back his retort. Seeing her husband's retreat from the argument, Shizuka looked back to her sister-in-law of sorts, speaking softly, "It is in the past. The threat is dealt with, and everything turned out fine. Let us not forget that we are all family. Okay?"
Yugito takes a deep breath. Mata takes her arm, drawing her eyes to her tenant's shaking head, and she sighs, retaking her seat. After that heated discussion, Fu felt like she should break the tension and spoke up, "So, you drowned him?"
Seiken nods as Shizuka hands Nami to her father, hoping to distract him from the situation. The six tails then answer, "Yes. We drew him down below the waves, and when he tried to escape, Naru-boy used his chains mixed with my chakra to drag him further down."
Karin then asks, "How did you not run out of breath yourself?"
Naruto took this, rather distractedly, "My contract with the leviathan grants me two abilities. The first is underwater breathing. The second is underwater propulsion. Both are self-explanatory and required to effectively work alongside them."
Karin nodded, though she gained staring eyes, as did Honoka, as she spoke, "We've been meaning to ask about that."
Naruto finally looks up from his "princess of the waves" he will train her to master, looking from Karin to Honoka, "We can discuss that later. This is a debrief for the whole family."
Both nod, as Utakata speaks now, "Then, the ship?"
Seiken speaks up, "The survivors of the crew are in custody with the samurai. The ladies who were chained up in the basement are getting the help they need. Children too."
Everyone nods, and Gaara speaks now, "Will you be able to host them all?"
"Shouldn't be an issue," Naruto responds, playing with his baby girl, who had gripped his finger. "Though, we aren't going to push them in any which way. Letting them focus on themselves and getting better. The political crap I'll deal with later."
"Are the kids Uchiha?" Fu asked out of curiosity. Those who went shrugged, and Karin responded, "I don't know. We'll have to test them all at some point."
Omoi shook his head. "It's well messed up. Good thing he's dead, huh?"
Yugito nods, taking a deep breath before speaking up. "Yeah, but now we have to clean up all the shit he's left behind."
Everyone nods at that. Kankuro says, "Didn't he have a village or something? Currently fighting against the Sound?"
Temari nods, "He did. Speaking of..."
"We'll have to clear them out too," Karuii muttered. Samui sighed softly, "Not cool."
Fu grinned, bouncing on her toes, "We get to hunt them all down, right?"
"Right," Karuii confirmed with a grin, and Kurama grinned along with her. "Guess we can get a little wild there."
Gaara shook his head, though Shukaku grinned. "Sounds like a party."
"It does look that way." Utakata comments, naturally not committing to attending. Yakumo speaking next, "Then, what about us? I kinda don't want to leave without a connection to you all."
Kurama grinned, resting on her arms folded across the table. "That is true. I need to ensure you are the best around, or my own name will lose its fear factor."
Both Kurama clansmen gulped at that grin; their training had been rather intense so far, and it was only the first day.
Naruto spoke next, drawing all eyes to him, as he maintained a soft gaze, a gaze only reserved for his princesses, on Nami, who was smiling at him. "Before we worry about that, we should all get ready for the fireworks and festivities tonight. We'll take the kids, as is our usual, so let's go clean up and meet up in the town centre."
Everyone nodded, but Fu immediately tried to vanish, only to get wrapped up by chains that snaked below the table, much to everyone's surprise. Fu gulped as she recognized their chakra signature anywhere. Naruto looked up, smiling foxily at his sister, "And no, Fu, you are not sitting this out."
Kurama grinned as she stood, looking at her niece now suspended in the air. "Oh yes. I am going to enjoy this."
The others all saw this cue to collect their children, and leave. Yugito had a smug smirk, knowing this was long overdue, winking at her bug-butt sister on her way out. Matatabi kept her head down, not meeting her sister's or her container's contemptuous gazes.
Oni no Kuni – Town
Evening…
The whole family would arrive from the shrine, with all but Kurama in formal attire, as she was on overwatch duty for security. She was accompanying them all to the center to meet with the others. Together, they all walked beneath the softly glowing purple glass or paper lanterns that had been strung above the streets between the buildings. The regular streetlights had been shut off for maintenance, as they were unnecessary.
All kids above seven would be allowed to free roam, though all would have a discreet guard, either their parents or their uncles. The town was under Kurama's watch and patrolled by cats and foxes. However, the other plans are still being used.
Fu felt very restricted in her full-length kimono, a light lime green with white lining, purple flowers decorating the bottom halfway up her back, with a matching purple obi. Her hair had been thoroughly washed and was clean, held in a single bun at the back. She wore minimal makeup on her caramel skin, with only a light dusting of blush and eyeliner.
Yugito was wearing her kimono from the rehearsal, with her hair done up as her sister's, though she was less tense because she had done this before. She also had Fu's hunting knives in her sleeves, as her little sister had caused an issue during preparations and was banned from holding them.
Naruto was in his formal attire too, though this time he had gone with a dark purple yukata and black obi combo. He was wearing black three-quarter-lengths beneath. His hair had been drawn back into a low ponytail but was largely the same. He was banned from bringing his normal odachi, so he had his tertiary weapons in the form of his version of his father's three-pronged kunai. Made from the same material as his katana, with seal script etched directly into the handle's metal, and covered by blue leather. He had one in his left sleeve, two on his thigh, and one on his right hip inside his top, hidden from view.
Shion had chosen a furisode that was apparently a single step down from her official shrine maiden equipment. Naruto couldn't tell the difference between them, but he was also told to be quiet, so he kept his mouth shut. She has matched her colour palette with her husband, as she always does, though she has borrowed one of her beloved overcoats.
Shizuka is wearing a battle kimono. Despite Shion's protest, Shizuka absolutely refused to lower her combat capabilities any further than this. She was still nearly fully armed, only lacking her sword, which she rarely uses, as she preferred ranged attacks with kunai. Again, she matched with her husband and sister wife, though she also had Nami in dark civilian clothes. She also chose her attire specifically because it gives her access to feed Nami if she needs to.
Shirin, Kushina, Miruko, and Saki had mimicked their respective parents.
Karin and Honoka both wore modest dark maroon kimonos, which had black thread-embroidered flowers around the base, with the family crest on the back. Their hair was plaited in twin braids down their backs, and they looked elegant despite being fairly well armed. Karin had gone a little further outside her comfort zone with a slight touch of makeup, natural-looking lip gloss, and mascara. Both planned to stick with Naruto's group on this outing, as they wanted to start planning out the basis for the seal.
The Hyuga were also in their second finest dress, and this time they were out in force to join the Regent's party. After Hiashi and his daughter reported on the combat capabilities and their progress in gaining closeness with the Regent and his family, the other Hyuga felt they must capitalize on this opportunity. Thus, by being seen in the Regent's roaming group during the celebration, they would become synonymous with the main house.
The scary thing was that it was working. Many eyes followed the Regent, and with Hiashi strolling beside him, talking idly, it was clear that they were at least friends.
Reaching the town centre, the group finds that the rest of their family there, Gaara and Mitsuri to Utakata and Hotaru. All looking formal and well dressed. What they did not expect was the Hidden Leaf, and Hidden Mist delegations to be there. Yakumo had an apologetic smile upon her face, Nila too, meaning they let slip that Naruto and his family would be meeting here. Or they just followed them.
Naruto grumbled softly, so softly that only Hiashi and his wives could hear. The two groups met up, and to say Tsunade was surprised would have been a major understatement. She knew Naruto had a son, a son she recognized immediately from the photo, looking like a mini-Naruto with black and darker blond hair. Whisker marks and everything.
What caught the leaf group off guard was the second set of twins, and the blonde on his arm, basically. Despite being warned ahead of time, Kiba was gawking at the babes among the group. The dark-haired woman, carrying the infant, was a knockout babe of the highest caliber. The other blonde woman was at the same level too and looked so soft and gentle that his primal need to protect was flaring up.
Kiba was only allowed that time to gawk and mentally undress them as Naruto was off to the side, sharing a quick word with Kurama about a certain toad sage, so he did not see it, though Kakashi was trying to get the Inuzuka's attention, to prevent him from suffering a fate worse than death. If the bingo book was anything to go by, thankfully for Kiba, both his sister and clanswoman, Kels, spotted what was happening and pinched his ear and yanked him back, moments before Naruto returned to the group.
Naruto approached the extended family group first, clasped arms with Gaara, and asked the redhead, "Is your sand in position?"
Gaara nods firmly once. "Yes. As we discussed, I have spread it around in plant pots and can feel the connection to it all. I should be fine like this."
Naruto nods, looking towards his well dressed bubble brother, "Looking sharp, Utakata."
Utakata nods once firmly, a dark blue Yukata much like Naruto's, sky blue obi, smile as even his hair had been tidied up a bit. Or attempted to be as just like his own, it refused to be tamed. "Thank you for the assistance, Naruto."
Naruto nods before looking at his brother's blonde student, date, and love interest, "It has been a while since we last met face to face, Hotaru."
Hotaru nodded with a soft smile, "Yes, it has, Regent..."
Naruto cut her off. "You are a member of the family. Feel free to use my name."
No one missed the blush on her cheek, nor the one on Utakata's as he suddenly found the glowing lamps hung above super interesting.
Naruto grins, then he looks at Mei, who has also gone all out in a full kimono-like dress that is far too loose in the shoulders, emphasizing her curves perfectly, but not enough to be considered trashy, as she does have respect for herself. Everyone has given up on trying to make her dress less revealing, so this wasn't a surprise. For her, it was modest. "As stunning as always, Mei."
Mei smirks, her man-killer smirk that has caused many men to become putty in her hands, Naruto, Utakata, and Chōjūrō being the few exceptions in the Mist, "Why, thank you, Naruto. You are looking absolutely delectable yourself."
Chuckling, Naruto shook his head, bumping fists with Chōjūrō. They just nodded to one another. They were sword brothers, no words needed to be said.
Finally, he got to the Leaf team, where Kiba had been successfully scolded, having reread Naruto's entry and scared straight. First up was Yakumo, "Yuku-chan. You clean up well."
Yakumo puffed her cheeks childishly, before breaking into a smile and chuckling, "Same to you, Naruto-kun. Thank you for everything."
Naruto smirked. "Wasn't me, but the fuzz butt."
Both Kurama clansmen giggled at that, knowing that the said fuzz butt hated that name and would grumble about it constantly.
Next was Tsunade, who grinned. "So, Regent. You were hiding your..."
"Yes," Naruto cut her off, rather icily, earning a suppressed sigh from the sitting Hokage. Naruto continued. "This is a family tradition to come to the festival together, at least for this first night. As much as I did not want to expose them to any of you, I was not willing to take this from them. Consider yourself lucky, though I would rather no report of them ever graces your filing room. Your council cannot be trusted after all."
Tsunade nods, along with the others in the group, though Ino, looking rather flashy in her own sunflower-print, dull yellow kimono, jumps out, upon seeing her new best friend, "Kushi!"
Kushina heard the voice and snapped at Ino, "Aunty Ino!"
Everyone watched this in either bewilderment or resignation. Naruto facepalmed, "I never should have let them meet. All they think about is flowers."
"Troublesome blondes," Shikamaru grumbled, only for over half the groups to look to him, including Naruto, Ino, Shion, Kushina, and Hot. Shino whispered into the Nara's ear, "An unwise notion to speak aloud. Why? Most of the people here are blonde."
Naruto, however, saw the fidgety Yugao in the back, wearing a white and pink battle kimono with a sword on her hip, and smiled. Looking back at his group of kids, he spotted the eight-year-old, nearly nine. "Ayao, come here a second."
The purple-haired girl perked up at her name being called and rushed over, "Yes, Tou-chan?"
Naruto took her by the hand and led her through the Leaf group, where everyone noticed the purple hair that reminded them of one of their own. Naruto stopped before Yugao with a beaming smile, his hands on the girl's shoulders as she stood in front of him. "Yugao Uzuki, allow me to introduce my daughter, Ayao Uzuki-Uzumaki."
The girl snapped her head from looking up at her father figure to the woman opposite, with widened eyes. Though the entire leaf group were wide-eyed, as Yugao saw the resemblance a mile off and couldn't stop the smile nor tears as she bent down to the girl's level, who too was teary-eyed. "Hey there..."
Ayao waved meekly, "Hi. Are you a Uzuki like me?"
Yugao nods firmly, then pulls off a mock salute, "Jonin Yugao Uzuki, of the Hidden Leaf shinobi forces. At your service."
Naruto whispered next, "She is one of the few who protected me when I was younger, Ayao. I told you stories of those special shinobi, remember?"
Ayao looked up at her father figure, nodded once, and then looked back at the woman ahead of her, running to hug the older woman. The sniffling was universal, and Naruto smiled at the sight. The Anbu looked up at him, holding the girl close, and mouthed "thank you." He responded with a simple nod.
Kakashi steps up beside him silently, speaking softly. "Thank you for this, Naruto."
Naruto shook his head silently. "It wasn't me this time. It was coincidence and my eldest son. We found her on Nagi Island along with the others. I was only going to mark their cages and come back later for them, but..."
Kakashi nods in understanding as Tsunade steps up on the other side. "So, the Uzuki..."
"A clan much like my own," Naruto replied, before looking to the Senju. "A lost clan, no idea from where or when, but scattered to the wind. Although our meeting was by chance, as soon as I recognized her, I realized that I needed to help her. So, like the others, I consider her my own, and they see me as theirs." He shrugged before returning to his family. "Thus, I have been training them accordingly."
The gathering began to disperse into their smaller groups, with Gaara and Utakata heading in opposite directions, in accordance with their plan from the bar, wives in arms. Shirin led his group, besides Ayao, off with his younger sisters. Temari went with them, along with Yugito. Fu moved off with Kushina and Ino, as the three discussed flowers and botany techniques.
Yugao and Ayao moved off too, with Kakashi going with them as overwatch. Mei took Chōjūrō by the arm, earning a raised brow from Naruto, though his sword brother waved him off as they moved away. Inazuka followed their noses though Kiba moved towards the two redheads but found himself following Shikamaru and Sakura against his intention, who offered a wave at Naruto, who nodded back silently.
Karuii and Omoi moved off to enjoy themselves while their hidden weapons were kept within reach, as Samui had taken it upon herself to guard Naruto. Unaware that Naruto wanted to keep her in sight, as he hadn't completely forgiven her.
Tsunade looked a bit confused about what she would do, silently hoping Naruto would allow her to join his group, though Naruto did call her. "Tsunade."
The Hokage looked to him, as he pointed to the side, and following the gesture, she found Jairyia, equally cleaned up in traditional garments, stepping into the town center with Kurama and Shukaku at his side.
Tsunade looked back to Naruto, who shrugged with a smirk, "His chakra is locked, and a tracking seal is attached to a paralysis seal should he leave the area of the town. We'll collect him in the morning. So, if only for tonight, be Tsunade Senju the lady, and not Lady Tsunade Senju the Hokage."
It was then that the toad sage arrived, with the tailed beasts moving off and Naruto approaching. "Jairyia," said man looks back at Naruto and nodded. Jairyia responded. "I have heard about the night; your friends explained it already. Though, can I at least thank you for this?"
Naruto nods as he looks at Tsunade, "Please enjoy this festival and don't worry about anything beyond the here and now. For the current is called the present for a reason."
Tsunade smiles at that, rather poetic. "Since when were you a poet?"
Naruto chuckles lightly, shrugging, "Utakata is as lazy as a Nara, but he knows what counts if you listen long enough."
He then moves towards his wives and remaining family, and they head into the party. This leaves the two senior citizens to it. Tsunade looks at Jairyia, and he immediately offers her an arm, saying, "If you would...?"
She takes it with a smile and nod. "Well, when was the last time we did something like this?"
The old sage chuckled heartily, "It has been many decades since..."
The two would break into small talk and follow the example of the younger generation, eventually catching up to Naruto's group and joining them as if they were always members of the family.
This night, everyone truly allowed themselves to unwind and enjoy themselves. Many visited the grill of the Akimichi, which had gathered a rather sizeable crowd and was a favorite this year. Naruto refused to accept a freebie from Choza, paying full price for his group. There were many cheers and laughter shared by all.
There were no shinobi present. Just people mingling and celebrating the founding of the land. All the worries were left in their hotel rooms, their work outfits, or suitcases and sealing scrolls. Throughout the night, Naruto had taken time to spend a portion with each of his wives, for a more intimate experience and moment of privacy.
When he and Shion returned to the larger group, Naruto was not surprised to find Karin, Honoka, and Jairyia arguing about a particular seal. He went to break it up but ended up getting caught up in it, siding with Karin and Honoka. Jairyia scoffed at that, claiming bias against him as they were 'know-it-all-Uzumaki', thus their argument was invalid. It caused those watching to chuckle into their ice creams.
At one point, Naruto confiscated Koki from Kiyota for a full hour, to allow the silver haired teenager time to enjoy herself too. She and Shizuka went off for that whole hour. Naruto took care of both Koki and Nami the entire time, much to Tsunade's surprise. She was further surprised when she grilled him on baby care. Naruto had corrected her twice. Shion then revealed that baby night cries were almost always handled by her husband.
Tsunade was impressed.
When the two Nadishiko kunoichi returned, Naruto handed back their respective babies, before approaching the heiress he had avoided for a while. It is better to deal with this head on now, as last night had reminded him what could happen if he dragged his feet. Naruto spoke firmly, softly, and without any hesitation, "Hinata, care to join me for a walk?"
Hinata's cheeks heated up, heart a fluttering mess as she bowed her head. "It would be an honour, Naruto-kun."
Naruto nodded before looking back at the group. Understanding dawned on them all, though it was clear there were a few bitter pills swallowed. Hiashi offered him a nod, along with Jairyia, both aware he was about to break a heart to save her future. This nod was then returned before Naruto moved off with the heiress, vanishing from their sight a moment later.
Hinata followed Naruto towards the southernmost park in the city. Plenty of bars and the like are in this area of town, but the park space was softly lit by seals masked as candles, Honoka's invention. It was also clean and tidy.
Taking a seat on one of the benches away from prying eyes, Naruto sat beside Hinata and let out a wary sigh. He hated doing this to Relai the first time, even if she still hasn't accepted it. No doubt will hate the look of hurt upon Hinata's face, but one thing at a time. He began, "Hinata."
Her eyes nervously looked at him, and his solemn expression, and her heart shattered, suspecting what this was about. Naruto continued, "You know... when I was younger, I called you weird because you kept fainting whenever I spoke to you. Back then, I was an idealistic fool who could never take 'no' for an answer."
Hinata nods, smiling solemnly, "You never go back on your word. It was your nindo – your ninja way."
"It still is," Naruto revealed, causing the woman to look at him, eyes wide. He smiled back at her with a nod, "In fact, it was also due to that fact that I had promised to change the Hyuga for Neji, that I placed you all in our guest house."
Hinata smiled at that; she'll tell him when she gets back. Naruto, however, couldn't tell her that he had actually forgotten it until just before their arrival at the docks. Not knowing wouldn't hurt her. Naruto continues, "Hinata. I have known of your infact..." pausing as he shakes his head, Hinata blushing rather heavily, continuing after the motion. "No. I know you have loved me for a long time."
She nodded silently, hiding her face in her hands, but Naruto continued on, despite the growing lump in his throat. "Hinata, I can't return those feelings to you. I love my wives, Shizuka and Shion, with my entire being. They saved me from myself, and I cannot repay them enough for that. They gave me my children, whom I love and will always protect. My family would not be what it is without them." He took a deep breath as he fully turned to her, gently peeling her hands from her face, with gentle hands, and ever so softly forcing their eye contact.
An eye contact that forces the upset heiress to see how troubled Naruto is in doing this. With his hands now gripping hers, holding light yet firm and warm. Naruto speaks, looking down at her pale hands within his tanned embrace. "You are probably the kindest person I know from the leaf. Though, I also know how fierce you are in protecting others. A lioness waiting to pounce."
"But, I am only like this," Hinata sniffled as Naruto shook his head, correcting her, "Your strength is just that, Hinata. Your strength. I have been away from the village and your life for over eleven years at this point," his smile right now was just as radiant as she remembered, though he continued, "you've gotten strong, Hinata. Not just as a kunoichi, but as a person, and most importantly, as a woman."
Hinata feels his gentle squeezing of her hands within his, and finds her pale eyes locked on his soft blues, ignoring the tears as she nods slowly, "You… you were my sunshine when all I thought was that I was a failure. When even my father did not believe in me."
Naruto choked out a soft chuckle, shaking his head, which confused the Hyuga heiress. Seeing this, he spoke up, "Hinata. In my time away, I have come across many things, but among them was a single, simple truth. Do you want to hear it?"
Hinata nods, always interested in the latest news of Naruto-kun, so Naruto began, "At first, I didn't believe it myself, however, in recent years I have only been able to verify it. So, I know it to be a truth when I say this," she nods again, waiting for these words of wisdom. Naruto locked his gaze upon hers and said, "It is a parent's job to believe in their children one hundred percent of the time."
Hinata eyes widened at that, going to protest but Naruto beat her to it, "Back in the Leaf, Hiashi and I were like water and syrup. Never should be near each other. However, in the short time that I have known him here and now, having become a parent myself, I know for a fact he has nothing but love for you and your sister."
The conviction in his tone and eyes made Hinata take this as gospel, unable to deny it. So, Naruto finished, "His methods were roundabout, sure, but he wanted to keep you safe and secure."
He sighed, his own kids coming to mind, and that time in Wave, when they played like shinobi and Commander. He hated remembering that sight, but forced himself forward, locking eyes with the still watery-eyed Hyuga princess. "Trust me, Hinata. As a father of eleven, with over half wanting to be shinobi, I know he wants nothing more than to wrap you up and keep you within reach."
Naruto actually got a giggle out of the woman, no doubt picturing her father being as doting as she had seen Naruto be with his own kids. It was a wet giggle, but it was progress. Naruto smiled at her, "So, Hinata Hyuga, heiress of the Hyuga clan..."
She straightened up at that, as he offered her some napkins. He finished off by saying, "I know it will be hard, I know that you'll feel lost for a bit, but you have your father and sister with you. Sure, those old bats back home will no doubt try to put you down, but those two at least, will always be with you."
Hinata nods with a soft smile, as she tends to her tears and fixes her make-up, "Yes, thank you, Naruto-kun…"
Naruto nods back, before attempting to shrug off the heavy atmosphere with an exaggerated double shoulder shrug. "It's fine. Though, if things get a bit too much, feel free to pop in for a visit. There's a reason we have a guest house."
She nodded more firmly, now that the tears had stopped, and her mind locked in on the fact that her father's love for her had been given the Naruto-kun seal of approval. Naruto's voice broke her from her musings though. "That being said, if we do end up building a compound in Demon for your clan, I think Neji might be a suitable head of security. He's sharp and quick-witted."
Hinata looked confused, doubly so upon seeing a glint in Naruto's eyes that she did not recognise, but the secretly watching Hiashi, and Jairyia did, both grinning at the silent message. Hinata though spoke up, "But, if Neji-Nii-sama was head of security…"
"He would have to meet me to get an interview for the job, and a full evaluation of his capabilities undertaken. Thus," Naruto continued as if thinking aloud, Hinata's confusion continued, so he elaborated. "I will have to double check that he had a good head on his shoulders, that nothing that could be a hindrance to his capabilities were an issue."
It took Hinata a full ten seconds to catch on to what Naruto was implying. Admittedly, she had just been let down easily by her love, and her eyes widened. "But, how…?"
Naruto snorted at that, waving her off. "Uzumaki literally wrote the book on Fuinjutsu, as Shukaku didn't feel the need to. That cheap knock-off slave seal will hardly be a challenge," he grinned, shoulder-bumping her softly, meeting her gaze directly. "Remember, I told him I would change the Hyuga. Just like you wish to. This – this is what I can do for you both."
Hinata smiled breathtakingly at that, and Naruto swore that if he wasn't a happily married man, he would have fallen for her at the sight of it, as she spoke up. "Thank you, Naruto-kun. I will also work hard on my own."
After the serious talk, Naruto would lead Hinata around for a bit, allowing enough time for her to calm down. He spotted Sakura being chatted up by one of Naruto's off-duty samurai. Shikamaru and Kiba were nearby, smirking as they kept an eye on them, beers in hand. Hinata whispered something to Naruto, causing him to chuckle and nod. This was caught by Kiba and Shikamaru, who both raised their brows at the twosome, watching them walk away.
Returning to the main group, Hinata approached her father, Naruto, his wives, and the princesses, and spoke softly, "Father," she bowed her head, "thank you for loving us."
Naruto and the others saw it. Hiashi's cold demeanor cracked and broke as he lifted his daughter from her thirty-degree bow, and smiled genuinely at her. "I am sorry, Hinata. For not knowing how to convey it as Naruto did."
Tsunade looked to Naruto, who was more interested in his own family than the Hyuga at the moment, and truly wondered just what the hell he had gone through to become this man before her. Naruto's voice broke her from her thoughts. "I became a father, Tsunade."
She then noticed how his eyes were soft, warm, and comforting as he stared at her, with Nami in arm, but she noticed that Shizuka was making faces to keep her daughter's attention. Naruto continued. "When my children entered this world, I learned about myself. I could no longer be rash, thick-headed, or even think about doing something stupid, or they'll end up growing up without me. I grew strong for them, to ensure my precious people got home. That I would come home."
His beaming smile broke the solemn air. "It's just that simple."
Everything returned to normal after that, with Kushina appearing with Ino and Fu at one point, when Naruto had just finished burping Nami. Fu got a giggle out of the baby, and she held a puffed-up chest for the rest of the night. Naruto had guided Kushina in holding her baby sister. Ino had snapped a picture of that tender moment.
Sometime later, after the trio had left, Shirin appeared without his team or aunt Temari and asked for some advice from his dad. Naturally, he was overheard by Tsunade and Jairyia, who had to get involved as the troublesome grandparents they were acting as.
Shortly after that, Ayao, Yugao, and Kakashi appeared, and Ayao rushed to hug Naruto, grinning and saying how much fun she was having with her cousin. What she called Yugao. Though, she also claimed she was her big sister. Naruto gave her hair a thorough ruffling despite her protests, which everyone knew was an act at best, as he slipped her a few extra bills. The real reason she looked for him. Naruto then sternly warned Kakashi to keep his baby girl safe or he would regret it. Kakashi gave him a mock Anbu salute.
Honoka's friend from the bakery stopped by when they had returned to the Akimichi stand, she was a nice lady and Naruto smiled at his clanswoman opening up a bit to others. This is also when a very well-dressed Hana stepped in with Utakata and Hotaru, talking amongst themselves. Utakata gave a nod to Naruto who nodded back, which alerted Hana to his presence. She smiled and headed over for a moment.
"Hey Naruto, thank you for allowing my triplets time with your kitsune," Hana opened, and Naruto shrugged, sipping his smoothie. "Ever since that incident, I too have been curious about how well our techniques could work with your dogs. Though, you are going to have to work on your language skills for true coordination."
Hana nods firmly, "Yes, we have been speaking with Pakkun about that. I have to bring it up with my mother. However, I won't bother with business tonight, so I will leave you guys to enjoy the night."
Naruto nods to that, before recalling something. "Oh, please remind my airhead of a brother that the fireworks are at midnight. He's probably forgotten about them, so keep it discreet."
She nods before leaving back to her own group.
As Naruto's party left, they bumped into Kiba, Sakura, Shikamaru, and Shino, along with a few locals, who seemed to be having a good time together. Hinata decided to join them, along with Hanabi, to get away from their father for a bit.
Naruto found it funny that, as soon as his daughters left, Hiashi loosened up significantly and spoke far less stiffly, almost dropping the formal talk completely within ten minutes. The other Hyuga had long since split up, enjoying being considered part of the higher echelons of the country, so it might be because of that too.
At one point, Jairyia had grabbed Naruto and Hiashi in a headlock as the three laughed at his joke. The ladies of the group shook their heads. Men.
Samui proved her position as a guard was required when a rowdy bunch got out of hand, and she successfully subdued all six perpetrators with a light application of lightning until the samurai officers showed up. This happened another three times throughout the entire first night.
When the games came up, Hiashi managed to beat Naruto on the hoops, but the Uzumaki claimed that the Hyuga used his Byakugan. Hiashi claimed that if he had, this would not be a contest. The mock argument was cathartic for the Hyuga, who cracked a smile by the end of it.
Tsunade beat Jairyia in paper fishing. Kiyota beat Shizuka the first time, but lost the second and third times. Shion giggled at that. Naruto was highly amused too. Saki and Miruko showed up with Shirin and his group, and the adults paid for their games. They then went back to the Akimichi stall, and brought them all ribs before parting ways again.
After a quick bathroom break, Shion pointed out Shirin and Amano walking alone ahead of them, and like mature adults, they followed them with all the poise of the veteran shinobi they should be but forewent all their training and tact to watch this young love. He had won her a new teddy bear at the game, and she thanked him with an innocent kiss on the cheek.
Naruto, Jairyia, and Hiashi shared a cheer and high-five at the little man scoring. Kiyota and Honoka squealed. Karin nodded her approval of her young clansmen. Shion and Shizuka were oozing pride. Tsunade was almost brought to tears.
The finale was almost upon them, and so all the separate groups converged at a designated place, the same place the demon group came to every year. This time, both the Mist and Leaf groups came with them. It was just off the path towards the shrine, a clearing that overlooked the town, with a fallen tree and benches around it.
Naruto's group was third there, with Omoi and Karuii already present, along with Utakata, Hotaru, and Hana. However, over the following half-hour, everyone had gathered on time. Everyone seemed to have enjoyed this time off from the world's problems, and Naruto couldn't be more elated about it. He had spent the last month filing papers for this, and it was reassuring that things turned out this well so far. Sure, it's the first day, and many hiccups had happened, and so far, so good.
His thoughts were broken by the first of the fireworks lifting into the sky. For the next ten minutes, everyone watched as the night sky was filled with color, light, and warmth. As he stood there, Naruto smiled softly and truly; things had been crazy this last year. From the recall, to being discovered by his previous life, to now standing among this group of family and guests that he now has. All watched alongside him.
Again his thoughts were broken, as his warrior queen took up his right hand, drawing his eyes to her loving smile. He returned the smile just as his left was taken by his priestess of light, drawing his gaze now, and she smiled just as her title suggested. Filled with a gentle, loving light that had always guided him home. Together, the three looked back up to the light-filled darkness, and Naruto spoke the words that came to mind, unaware that all would hear him. "Hey mom, dad. I definitely found it."
A/N: Naruto drowned out Orochimaru, using his chains and Seiken's acidic chakra nature to melt him from the inside. Karin and Kiyota paid back their former tormentor and boogie man, successfully killing the Uchiha. The family was debriefed on the fight, and the tradition of the first night upheld. The Leaf forces came face to face with Naruto's full family, after a teary meeting, a surprising guest arrived. The festivities were enjoyed by all, Akimichi made a killing, and all laughed and had fun.
Episode XIV: The night of joy was cut short, literally, and the meetings began. Naruto has a lot on his plate, and everyone knows this, so they do whatever they can to support him. Matatabi has been sulking in her seal, grounded by her elder sibling, and Yugito is unsure how to handle it. She has never actually fought with her brother that seriously before. Help from a brother sets all straight.
2nd A/N: Longest chapter at 14K words. Probably could have cut it down, but it would break the flow. As my classes are starting up again soon, my release uploads will slow again. Episode XV needs editing after I get to a good spot in Episode XVI to stop.
Secondly, someone said that the Naruto vs Sasuke fight was kinda underwhelming. Well, yeah. Naruto's primary concern is always the protection of his precious people. Due to that, he priorities targets in fights and doesn't just charge in wreaklessly.
In that fight, he was handling Sasuke who escilated with a half body Sasunoo, and suspected his six chains were insufficient against that much chakra, just as Karin stated, he called upon his clan summon as last time he checked Kurama was still in a fight elsewhere, thus unavailable.
Sasuke, seeing the summon, followed suit, which inadvertently saved him as those summons, manly down to their numbers, was the bigger threat thus Naruto targeted them. Once they had been dealt with, Naruto rushed back to find Kiyota in the Uchiha's grip and swiftly corrected that.
Again, during the handling of the duckbutt, a new, larger threat to his family arrived, and forced Naruto to change target again. Though, he did try and end him, his hand was forced as the form Orochimaru was in could one-shot most people, including himself and Sasuke, if left unchecked.
Yes, Naruto was mad, damn right furious, but he kept enough control of himself to successfully attack and defend his people the best he could. Why not make shadow clones? I plan on covering it later, as to why he no longer relies on his famous technique as often as he once did, but the short answer is the Water Civil War.
I am not sorry if you thought they'd be epic, monstrous fights, between near diety level beings, when this is a story about shinobi, powerful shinobi no doubt, but shinobi all the same. Naruto is just trying to end the threat to his family, whilst protecting them from harm. He was out in the ocean thus couldn't use the flying thunder god as he had no seals to teleport to, though he never really relied on that technique so it doesn't immediately come to him in combat situations.
o7