A/N-1: Welcome to Part Three of the Epic. This chapter will introduce Mei Terumi, who is Twenty-Two in this timeline. Also the introduction of Naruto's Strongest soldier given to him by Ashborn and if you read the latest chapters of Solo Leveling. Well you know who it is. Also we'll be leading up to the Chunin Exam. Character Legend will be at the bottom for new characters brought in from other series. Thank you for your support and Let's Start the Fucking Ruckus.
Review Corner:
zero fullbuster: Thank you for your continued support.
naes151: I will probably go the route of KushinaxKurenai and it would be fun for Fuyumi to call Kushina mom.
lyricangel25: I do not know what reference in which you speak but can you remind me Please.
Addendum: 2/22/22: I haven't looked at this chapter in a while and might make some changes, expand things, who knows but a first for this chapter.
"Speaking"
Summon/Biju
Zanpakuto
Transformed Voice/Shadow Soldier
[..Pause ...Long Pause]
Disclaimer: I Own NOTHING
-03-
#Uzushiogakure - One Month Later#
Three young women step off a cruise liner in the port of uzushio, "Is this wise Mei.. We don't know if Uzushiogakure will help us" one says. She has green eyes and fair-skin with an athletic yet curvaceous build. She has waist-length black hair in a hime-style cut tied in a high ponytail with short bangs and chin-length strands framing her face. She wears a form-fitting kunoichi uniform, grey in colour with a right shoulder-guard, grey gloves and a beige hooded robe.
"It's a risk we'll have to take Shizuka.. Uzushio is known to the aid of the downtrodden" mei states. She is tall and slender with fair skin, green eyes and shoulder length auburn hair styled into a herringbone pattern at the back, a top-knot tied with a dark blue band.
"Uzushio even has the Strongest Guild among the Great Nations" mei adds, wearing a similar outfit to shizuka but her uniform is black with both shoulder-guards. The last of the trio is known as Tokiwa and she was not so sure, "They could take advantage of us and the situation" she says. She is a tall woman with a very angular face framed by her short brown hair along with a dark shade of red lipstick. She wears a short, backless, red, full-body suit over mesh armour, along with a pair of arm-length gloves and a light orange sash, a long blue green front-open apron skirt, along with bandages on her wrists, covering all of her right and left as well as her left thigh and leg with a beige hooded robe.
"We'll have to take that chance... Yagura needs to be stopped" mei said. The three continue through the port and reach the check in station but were stopped by several Anbu, "Follow us" puma said. The three kunoichi reluctantly follow the Anbu to a room, "Take a seat... One of the barrier team will speak with you" another Anbu codename Hawk says. Mei and her comrades take a seat at the long table, "This is not a good sign.. They caught us immediately" shizuka says.
"The Uzumaki are known for their sensory abilities" mei states. The door opens and in steps a young woman with red hair, light purple eyes and white headband. She is wearing a purple, sleeveless kimono blouse with yellow trimmings, white obi and a long, streaming bow tied to it, mesh armour underneath it along with a short white skirt and geta sandals.
"Hello I am Honoka with the barrier team.. May I have your names and intentions" the young woman says.
"My name is Mei Terumi and these are comrades Shizuka and Tokiwa... Our intentions are meet with the Uzukage and ask for aid in the rebel cause to stop the current Mizukage's tyrannical regime" mei states.
"I see... Follow me and we'll get you registered and have a Jonin escort you" honoka says and all three sigh in relief. Honoka gets the three registered by their chakra and give them a map of the village.
"Be courteous and upfront.. Then Kushina-sama will listen" honoka says and mei nods. A nondescript uzumaki jonin arrives and escorts the trio to a tram which will take them to the center of uzushiogakure and uzukage tower. Which was a tall spire in the center of the village, as the city is further divided by three ring like walls. The first ring is the commercial hub of uzushiogakure, followed by the industrial hub and lastly the residential hub of the village.
"Uzushio seems prepared for an invasion" tokiwa asks.
"Naruto-sama and Kushina-sama are cautious and plan for the future" the jonin says. The tram soon reaches the center of the village and comes a halt, allowing the four make their way to the tower.
"Naruto Uzumaki... Is he not the son of the Kiiroi Senko of Konohagakure" shizuka asks and the jonin nods.
"Take the elevator to the top floor.. She'll be expecting you" the jonin says and the three nod.
"Is it wise to bring up such a matter.. He's not His student" tokiwa said.
"But he is the Kiiroi Senko's son.. He may be able to free me of this debt.. Otherwise Haku and I can't be together" shizuka says. The elevator dings on the top floor and two more Anbu were waiting for them, "Follow us" one says, codename Usagi. Mei and the others follow the Anbu down a long hall to a pair of double doors, "Go in" the other Anbu Badger says. Usagi opens the door to a lavish office with a mahogany desk opposite the doors, a bar and several chairs but seated at the desk was kushina. The redhead looks over the three kunoichi with a calculating eye, "Usagi... Has my son arrived" she asks.
"He'll be here in fifteen minutes" usagi replies. Kushina looks to the three kunoichi, "According to Honoka.. You're seeking aid... I like many other countries have kept our gaze on the Land of Water and Kiri's civil war.. Zabuza Momochi has done well to keeping the rebels alive.. Especially with the Mizu Daimyo's blind eye to the war raging in his country" she starts.
"That is correct and as it stands.. We've managed to kill two of remaining Seven Swords loyal to Yagura" mei states.
"That still leaves Mangetsu Hozuki and Kisame Hoshigaki.. Two of the Strongest members" kushina says and mei nods.
"Also regrettably.. Ameyuri Ringo was injured in our last skirmish" mei states.
"I'm curious.. Why come to us" kushina asks.
"To be honest.. We don't trust the other nations to take advantage of us.. Yagura continues to perpetuate the Caste System.. In which several High Ranking Clans continue to enjoy and profit from.. Using those of lower rank as their tools to used and abused" mei explains.
"Most of those clans believe in Purity and believe those of lower station are tainted people" tokiwa adds. Kushina nods with her chin on her propped up hands, "True on all counts... So what does Zabuza offer in exchange for our aid in helping him Win his war" she says. Mei gulps softly and closes her eyes to take a breath, "When he becomes Mizukage.. He offers Exclusive rights to Ten A-class Gates and my... Myself" mei states and kushina quirks an eyebrow.
"I possess Two Kekkei Genkai.. The Steam and Lava Releases" mei states.
"That's a rarity" a voice says and the three look back to see naruto. He wears a pair white jeans with a navy hoodie and black undershirt, along with a pair of black work boots.
"My son and Uzushio's Daimyo.. Naruto Uzumaki" kushina says and naruto closes the door, making his way to his mother's desk.
"Kiri's rebels are seeking aid.. Their offer is ten A-class gates and one Mei Terumi" kushina says. Naruto slips a menthol in his mouth and lights it, "Quite the payment of ten A-Class gates and a beautiful woman.. Tell me... Are you willing to sacrifice yourself to bring freedom to home" he says.
"Yes" mei states, with no hesitation. Kushina and naruto were impressed by mei's resolve, "Well then we have a deal.. Once we free Kiri.. You'll become one of my son's mistresses" kushina says and mei furrows her brow.
"It's not as bad as it sounds.. We'll have time to properly get to know one another" naruto says.
"I-I see" mei states. Naruto approaches mei and holds out his left hand, "If things don't work out... I'll let you out of this.. Alright" he says and mei gasps, as he sees shizuka staring.
"Something wrong" naruto asks.
"Are you indeed the son of the Kiiroi Senko" shizuka says.
"Unfortunately he is... Why" kushina says and shizuka begins to tell her tale. How her sensei fought jiraiya to a stalemate, before postponing their fight but jiraiya passed the buck to his student and her sensei to her before passing away.
"So you think fighting me will clear this debt" naruto says.
"I know you're not Jiraiya's student but you are his son" shizuka says.
"That Lecherous Toad.. All this from spying on Nadeshiko village" kushina says. Naruto taps his ashes into a tray and pours himself a triple shot of vodka, "I guess I could help" he says.
#‐-#
"So how does this work" naruto asks, tossing his hoodie to his mother. The group were in one the training room in the kage tower. Shizuka stood opposite him with mei and tokiwa, "We battle until one submits.. Should you win.. I am free of my Sensei's obligation or should I win.. You are to marry me and produce an Heir" shizuka explains. Naruto glances to his mother as he pops his joints, "Then I just need to win" he says. Tokiwa stands between the pair with mei and kushina behind them at a distance, "Let the Sacred Duel begin" tokiwa shouts. Naruto keeps his hands in his pockets as shizuka sprints forward as futon chakra coats her right hand, "Nadeshiko-Ryu: Koha Reppuken" she shouts, thrusting her spear like hand towards naruto. He sidesteps the strike but he could feel the force behind shizuka's strike and quickly flickers around as shizuka was quickly on him with a barrage of kunai.
"That is smart.. Keeping him on the defensive but against Sochi.. It is useless" kushina thought. Naruto continues to dodge with various body flickers but his hands were still in his pockets, "She's skilled" he thought, finally removing his hand and grabbing a kunai.
"Enbu: Ni no Dan" shizuka shouts, leaping and spinning with another flurry of kunai. Naruto shoots forward with a kunai in hand and parries many of the kunai, moving closer towards shizuka and suddenly tossing the kunai.
"Kunai Kage Bunshin no Jutsu" naruto utters. Shizuka and mei gasp as the kunai become a dozen but shizuka weaves signs and inhales, "Ressenpu" shizuka thought, blowing a heavy gust of wind. The kunai fly back towards naruto but he ignores them and presses forward as shizuka meets him with a kunai aimed for his chest. However shizuka gasps as she passes through naruto, "An afterimage.. He's that fast?!" she thought.
"Game over" naruto says, pressing his right index to shizuka's neck. Tokiwa's eyes were wide as shizuka's were equally wide, "No one has been able to do that" both thought.
"I yield... No one has ever gotten behind me" shizuka says and naruto rolls his neck.
"Then you are now free of your burden" naruto says. Shizuka turns to naruto and bows deeply, "Thank you Naruto-san" she says.
"Think nothing of it.. People have a Right to choose who they love" naruto says. He then turns his attention to mei but also his mother, "Do you mind if I take them to my Guild to discuss things" naruto says.
"Go ahead.. I'll leave this all to you Sochi.. I'm going to play with Fou" kushina says and vanishes with a swirl of water, much to the shock of mei and the others.
#Espada Guild HQ#
Naruto sits at the head of a twenty seat table, "I want you meet Mei Terumi.. Shizuka and Tokiwa" he says, as they sit on one side. On the other side were anko, kaguya, tsunade, konan and shinki with the remaining sannin, kurama and thorkell missing.
"These are some my fellow Espada.. My wife Anko and Segunda Espada.. My mistress Tsunade Senju and Tres Espada.. Another of my mistresses Kaguya Alea and Cuatro Espada.. My Third mistress and Quinto Espada Konan Shirayuki and Lastly is Noveno Espada Shinki Tetsumori" naruto explains. He is a young man with dark spiky hair, small eyebrows and green eyes. He wears black full-body outfit that covers his throat, complete with his high-collar espada coat and black calf-length shinobi boots.
"So why are they here" tsunade asks. Naruto lights a menthol with a glance to mei and her group, "Aid for Kiri's Freedom from Classist Tyranny" he starts and takes a small drag, exhaling some smoke but sucks it through his nose before it escapes.
"About Two years ago Yagura Karatachi with the backing of several noble clans.. Mainly the Karatachi.. Kagumoto and Tsuchigumo clans.. Hardliners of the whole Nobility above all thing.. Yagura executed several lower rank clans to appease their classist beliefs.. Because they felt they were getting too strong" naruto continues and he sees the look of anger on mei's face.
"Zabzua Momochi.. Ameyuri Ringo and Raiga Kurosuki betrayed the Seven Swords and formed a rebellion to free Kiri of their Caste like Regime" naruto finishes.
"You know a great deal" tokiwa says. Naruto chuckles softly with a glance to kaguya, "I like to stay informed.. Especially with Mizu on our border and an influx of refugees... Plus Kaguya's father was a member of Mizu's Kaguya Clan" he says and kaguya creates a bone from her palm.
"My mother is from the Alea Elf clan of the Heaven Tower... I am actually nearly one hundred years old.. She only knew he was from the Kaguya" kaguya explains.
"Unlike the Kaguya you've seen and fought.. She is very different from them and not as battle-hungry.. However she possesses a skill far different them as well" naruto says.
"Why not go to the Daimyo" tsunade asks.
"He doesn't care.. He prefers the Status Quo.. So long as Kirigakure continues to function.. Clearing Gates and doing missions" mei replies. Naruto sighs and taps his ashes, "Yet another Daimyo who simply lets their nation suffer" he says.
"Naruto has been Daimyo for nearly four years but in those years with his mother's help.. Uzushio has grown stronger in all walks of life" anko says.
"So how will we be helping them" konan asks.
"I'll meet with Zabuza and plan things out.. Tsunade.. Kaguya and Thorkell will accompany me" naruto says.
"Why can't I go" anko says. Naruto puts out his cigarette with a look to his wife, "Well I need you to run Espada in our absence and train my team" he says and anko puffs her cheeks, shocking their guests.
"Fine but you'll owe me and Ko-chan" anko says and konan nods, shooting him a look. Naruto sighs and nods with a look to their guests, "Will that be alright" he says.
"That will and Thank you" mei says and they smile.
"We'll return to Nadeshiko and prepare aid as well.. We may be able to strike soon" shizuka says and naruto nods.
"The next boat leaving is in the morning.. Puma will guide you... Also if you can send word to Zabuza of our arrival under the name Zero" naruto says and the pair nod. Puma appears and escorts their guests out to a hotel, leaving naruto and his ladies to themselves.
"This may piss of the Mizu Daimyo and catch the attention of the other Daimyo" tsunade states. Naruto shifts his chair and rests his legs on the desk, "Frankly I don't care.. It's time the old people at the table.. See that Times change" he says.
"Fufufu.. It'll make things interesting" tsunade says, causing anko to giggle. The former snake mistress rises from her chair and approaches her husband, "Well since you're not letting me go with you.. Time to be Punished again" anko says, causing the mistresses to giggle.
#-#
The wind lightly blows on the balcony of naruto's mansion as he leans on the railing with a menthol in his mouth, with just a pair of blue pajamas bottoms on. His honeys were asleep in a tangled mess of bodies and smelling of their hours of debauchery.
"So... How does it feel to inhabit one the boys Bellion" naruto muses. Standing behind him was an exact duplicate of himself but having purple sockets with no pupils and wearing all black, along with a half mask.
"It is strange experience my liege but Yami is useful" bellion said, his tone noble.
"If Igris is my right.. You are my left... So what do you have for me" naruto says.
"There are forces in Wind looking to remove Mios.. A faction has grown among his nobles that are tired of his ways and feel his actions are dragging their country down" bellion said.
"Finally... What about Hien's niece Oichi.. Is she ready for the throne" naruto asks.
"She seems ready.. She curries favor with a majority of the nobles and the Tiger of Takeda" bellion replies. Naruto taps his ashes over the side into another drag and exhale, "Interesting... I've decided to aid the rebels in Mizu.. I suspect that Lord Minase doesn't care who wins.. So long as they make him money.. Am I correct in that suspicion" he says and bellion nods.
"You would be correct.. He turns a blind eye to things... So much he'll be assassinated in the coming days" bellion said and naruto chuckles in his throat.
"Do we know who" naruto asks.
"The Lord of Echigo" bellion replies. Naruto looks back to his left hand, "Now that is impressive.. The War God.. Kenshin Uesugi... A good man" he says.
"What of Earth and Lightning" naruto adds.
"Lady Makura has finally gotten through to the Sandaime Tsuchikage.. Onoki of the Both Scales to step down and his granddaughter Kurotsuchi the Supernova to become Yondaime... Lord Tsuichi has decided to offer up one of his forces to Convince you into allowing their Thunder Guild to have a joint clear of several Gates in Frost and Peaches" bellion said, handing him several photos. The photos were of a young woman with blonde hair in an asymmetrical bob and ice blue eyes.
"Her name is Samui Kiryu the Ice Witch.. She's capable of using the Hyoton to a high degree" bellion said. Naruto looks through the photo but stops at one, "Wow" he remarks, seeing her bust size.
"She may as big as Tsunade" naruto thought and clears his throat, "Interesting and what's her Rank" he asks.
"A-class but with proper training she can move to S-class" bellion said and naruto smirks.
"Continue your observations.. Aid quietly those that can assist us and keep your ears open to a possible fourth raid of Glacier island" naruto says and bellion bows, before vanishing. The morning soon comes and naruto is in the kitchen making breakfast for his honeys. He was baking blueberry biscuits, frying bacon and sausage links with scrambled eggs adding some cheese.
"Morning" kaguya says, being the first to wander in. She wears a oversize pink long sleeve shirt with white booty shorts and bunny slippers. Naruto gives her a soft kiss and she steals a sausage link with a finger bone, "Go sit in the dining room.. It'll be done soon" he says and kaguya nods. Naruto creates a clone to takes the eggs into the dining room, then another for the juice or coffee for tsunade and konan. The first clone's memories reach him as he takes out the biscuits as anko was naked, "Again" naruto thought. Tsunade and konan were dressed in a white night dress and a light blue yukata respectively. Naruto enters the dining room with the pan and glass dishes having sausage or bacon as anko returns in one of his shirts with pink panties.
"Spoilsport" anko whines. Naruto shakes his head and makes the finishing touches before blessing the food for them.
"Naru-kun is with his team" konan asks, putting some cream in her coffee. Naruto nods but a cheeky smiles forms, "Yes... So which one am I" he says. The four women look between each other to guess which of the boys was before them, as each have a tell but he didn't show it.
"I think you are Hono" anko says but naruto covers his mouth with his index fingers like an X.
"Kori" konan says but again naruto shakes his head. Tsunade takes a sip of her coffee with five sugars, "I'll go with Tsuchi" she says but naruto slowly shakes his head causing her to tsk.
"You are Kaze" kaguya says and naruto or kaze smiles with a nod.
"Bing-bong.. Kaguya is the winner and get alone time with boss tonight" kaze says. Kaguya smiles triumphantly as the others mutter lucky bitch but continue their breakfast as their man was training his charges.
#Espada HQ#
Team-Zero as they were dubbed make their way up to one of the training rooms to meet their sensei, all of them were excited as they would be going into their first gate. Wasabi opens the door to the training room and they see their sensei in a strange boxing stance. Naruto was standing on his toes with his left close to his body and his right extended out.
"That looks familiar" iwabee says. Naruto ignores his charges as he envisions his random opponent, before sending some rapid fire jabs. Wasabi and her teammates gasp at naruto's punches but iwabee sees a boxer starting to form, "That's?!" he thought. Naruto starts to weave as if he was dodging punches with quick footwork and head movements. The impromptu spar ends as iwabee sees the boxer go down from a devastating left straight.
"So... My cute Genin.. What was I doing" naruto says.
"Shadow Boxing" iwabee says, excitedly. Naruto rolls his neck with a smile, "Got it in one.. Shadow Boxing is basically envisioning an opponent to fight.. That way you can hone your Taijutsu" he says. He then beckons for his team to follow him to a metal table with three cases, "My Head of R&D and Tayuya's sister made these for you" naruto says, opening each case and grabbing a towel to wipe his brow. The three genin approach and sees their soon to be new weapons.
"For Iwabee a retractable Bo-staff" naruto starts. Iwabee picks it up and it extends as naruto moves to wasabi's weapon, being a pair of wrist length black and red gloves with metal claw fingers and a skeletal frame around the hand.
"These will enhance your skills and Karin added a little extra of a miniature taser with an application of chakra" naruto explains. Wasabi slips on the gloves and tries her taser and squeals softly, "Thank you" she says and naruto smiles softly.
"So what about me" tayuya says. Naruto pulls out a long purple and fingerless glove with black stripes around several spots with a metallic strip around the wrist.
"Karin made this special with Kaguya's input.. You'll be able to create a bow" naruto explains. Tayuya slips on the glove and it fits perfectly but raises her hand, before channeling her chakra. Her chakra creates a dark pink reflex bow, "Nee-sama always does me right" tayuya says, trying a few arrows.
"The Uzumaki clan are amazing" wasabi says. Naruto slips on his harness and pulls zetsuei out, along with his trench-knives but also slips on six bracelets.
"Alright my cute Genin.. We'll be taking on a D-rank gate.. It's near Shirokoko" naruto says and the three nod. The three link hands with naruto and he uses shadow exchange to take them to the gate. Usagi was waiting for them with several association members, "Area secure" she says. Naruto slips on his gloves with a glance to his team, "This is your gate.. I'll be watching and if things get rough.. I'll step in" he says and all of them nod, before they step inside. The four find themselves in a dense forest with numerous tall redwoods. Wasabi sniffs the air and her ears flick at every sound, before she forms a ram-sign.
"Feline Mimicry: All Fours Jutsu" wasabi utters, as dark green chakra envelops her ears and tails with her toenails sharpening. Now with enhanced senses wasabi sniffs out their quarry, "Follow me" she says, dropping to all four. Iwabee and tayuya watch the left and right flanks as naruto brings up the rear, "Training is pay off" naruto thought. The four rush through the mighty redwoods but wasabi halts as several arrows hit the ground. The source were small green creatures with pointed ears, yellow eyes and jagged teeth with barely any clothes but a loincloth.
"Well my cute Genin.. Time to become Goblin Slayers" naruto says, smirking. The goblins chitter in their language as the Genin spring into action, with tayuya slipping on her headphones and forming her bow. She takes to the trees as iwabee and wasabi reach the goblins. Wasabi swipes at a few goblins, while iwabee slams his staff into the ground.
"Doton: Stone Hammer" iwabee shouts, creating the hammer and swinging into a few goblins. Naruto watches his team do battle with the goblins but his senses were searching for the boss.
"Raiton: Jibashi" wasabi shouts, slamming her palms into a hobgoblin with a club. The hobgoblins started to appear as the group took care of the minor goblins. They were much taller and muscular than the goblins but still with pointed ears, yellow eyes and jagged teeth.
"These seem a little stronger" iwabee shouts, swinging his staff. The hobgoblin groans but an arrow pierces its forehead and through the brain. Tayuya leaps down with her bow breaking down into pink dust as she flashes signs to ram, "Cover your ears" she shouts and both do.
"Sound Ninjutsu: Roar of the Banshee" tayuya thought, unleashing a sonic wail. The hobgoblins scream as their eardrums explode as iwabee flashes to signs to bird and slams his hands down on the ground.
"Doton: Doryuso" iwabee shouts. The spears burst from the ground and through the hobgoblins, while wasabi scratches them with her metal claws.
"That's right.. Rip and Tear until it done" naruto muses, vanishing as his team continues to fight. Naruto appears above a rocky formation near the forest edge, his hands pocketed and his gaze on a figure. It resembles a hobgoblin but more muscular with a large zanbato driven into the rock. It wears a fur loincloth with bracers on the arms with a tattered black cape and a crown.
"A goblin king" zetsuei comments. Naruto slips a menthol in his mouth and slowly descends, "No sport" he thought. The king senses him and swings his massive sword but naruto blocks with his forearm to no damage, "No free ones for you" he sneers. The king backs up with a chitter of its language and the sounds footsteps erupt behind naruto, causing him to glance back. It was four goblin champions with bound women and frightened expressions on their tear stained faces. The king chitters as if laughing but that look vanishes as naruto erases the women and champions with a dark purple cero.
"Is that your plan.. Well that would halt most but I'm not most" naruto says. The king hisses and swings his massive sword but naruto ducks under the wide swings, shooting behind the king and grabbing it by the head.
"I've dealt with your kind many times and mom always says.. Leave one goblin alive and you're never safe" naruto says, before pulling off the king's head with a slow yank.
"Boss slain" zetsuei comments. Naruto tosses the king's head off the ridge and leaps down to find his team. They were surrounded by goblin corpses with wasabi and iwabee splattered in dark blue blood.
"Boss dead" tayuya says and naruto nods, finally lighting his cigarette.
#Espada HQ#
"For the foreseeable future.. Anko will be your Jonin lead" naruto says. The three genin state at naruto in shock, "I knew you'd pawn us off" tayuya says.
"No I'm not but I have some business to deal with... Namely The Land of Water and their civil war" naruto says and iwabee gasps.
"Uzushio intends to step in" iwabee asks and naruto nods.
"Correction Zero the Black intends to step in" naruto says and wasabi furrows her brow.
"It's one of his alias" anko says.
"It's also an offshoot of a name I have in the Heaven Tower" naruto adds.
"Won't the other countries see that as.. As something bad" wasabi says.
"What's to stop them not helping innocents in need.. Some fear of other countries taking advantage of them" anko says.
"One thing I've learned is that Evil thrives when Good does Nothing" naruto says.
"So while Naru-kun is gone.. Mama Anko will be your mistress" anko chirps and naruto sighs.
"Ignore Her... So how were your new weapons" naruto says. Wasabi lights up with a smile, "It's awesome and will fit into my ninjutsu and taijutsu" wasabi says.
"It's better my pipe.. Thanks for it" iwabee says.
"Nee-sama doesn't disappoint" tayuya says and naruto chuckles as anko giggles. The doors open as a few clones of naruto come in with trays of food and the food was a foot long philly cheese steak. Along with some seasoned fries with naruto having triple cheese on his.
"What are these" wasabi asks. The clones pour each of them some black cherry soda, "A philly.. You'll like it" naruto says. Wasabi looks at the sandwich but slowly takes a bite and her eyes light up, "This is good" she chirps. Iwabee follows suit and like wasabi likes the philly, "She's right" he says and naruto smirks, as they start eating.
#-#
Mei looks out at the ocean with thoughts on her homeland and the hope with uzushio's help it would free. The sound of footsteps on the pier catch her ears and mei turns to see tsunade with kaguya behind her. Both were wearing kunoichi shozoku with their espada coats but all black and tsunade having her blonde hair in a bun with bangs framing her face.
"Naruto and Thorkell are on their way" tsunade says.
"Kushina-sama wanted to say goodbye" kaguya mentions, her white hair braided into two hoops. Mei slowly nods as the three got on the thirty foot power crusier, "Where will the insertion be" mei asks.
"The Southeast.. We'll make entry in the middle of the night" kaguya says. Mei looks out on the pier as thorkell was approaching with a giant, ornamental axe which looks like most of its weight is concentrated on the head and looks very off-balanced but the demon was carrying it with one hand. He is wearing black pants and boots with a long sleeve white shirt and dark espada coat.
"Zehahaha.. Don't worry little lady.. We'll free your home" thorkell says.
"Where's Naru-kun" anko asks and thorkell points. Mei looks to see naruto approaching and wearing a black hakama gathered into calf length riding boots, a black but sleeveless kosode with a short-sleeve white juban underneath and black obi. Naruto was also wearing a black coat with light purple draconic patterns down the sleeves and three separated coattails with a purple lining. A half mask was covering the lower half of his face and a pair of goggles on his forehead, his steel-blue eyes seemingly glowing.
"Everyone ready" naruto says, hopping on the boat and everyone nods. Naruto heads to get the ship ready to cast off as the others head below deck to get situated, before the ship leaves port for the wide open ocean. A few hours pass and mei finds her way to the cockpit as naruto was steering or his clone was. Naruto sits with a cigarette in his mouth and a bottle of bourbon, "Couldn't sleep" he asks. Mei takes a seat and slowly nods as naruto pushes a glass towards her, "Same... Care for a drink" he says.
"Thank you" mei says. Naruto taps his ashes with a sigh, "Tell me about yourself.. Since we should be getting to one another" he says. Mei takes a few sips of bourbon with a sigh, "I came for a low-level clan in Kiri's caste system" she starts, taking a few more sips.
"Like many low-level clans.. We were put into Kiri's forces to be their tools.. Forced to kill a fellow student to pass their academy" mei continues.
"It is said Zabuza killed his entire class.. Served Kiri faithfully but seeing the True nature of Kiri.. Decided to rebel and attempted to kill Yagura Karatachi" naruto says and mei nods.
"Yes... I was Genin at the time but a sought after prize as I possessed Two Kekkei Genkai despite Yagura and the Clans' hatred of lower bloods... When Zabzua called for others to rise up.. I followed... Others followed too... Raiga... Ameyuri.. That put Them on notice" mei states. Naruto pours mei some more bourbon, "Civil War began as sides were chosen.. Former comrades fighting and killing each other" she says.
"While the world watched.. Some aided the rebels and others maintained the Status Quo" naruto says and mei slowly nods.
"What about you... If we can change the subject" mei states. Naruto sparks up another cigarette into a small drag and exhaling some smoke but sucking it up through his nose.
"I was born in the Heaven Tower's Twentieth floor.. Being the child of the Summer Queen and blessed by certain Gods.. Affords Perks and easy traversal of certain floors... So I spent my first five years there" naruto starts, shocking mei.
"When I awakened at six.. Mother began my hellish training.. Her precious baby boy would not be weak... I learned much from many and I got married at Ten" naruto continues.
"Ten?!" mei says, nearly shouting. Naruto laughs softly with a sip and a drag, "Mhmm.. I married Anko the daughter of the Martial God at ten.. Further solidifying the bond between the One-Horn Tribe and their Summer Queen" he says.
"I Reawakened at thirteen and gained the power of a Monarch.. Then set about honing my craft.. Becoming Daimyo at Fourteen" naruto muses.
"Why so young" mei asks.
"Mother had plans for Uzushiogakure.. To see it spoken in same breath as the Big Five and in three years she has" naruto replies. Mei finishes her bourbon and declines another with a sigh, "It is why we chose Uzushio.. Other nations have their own interests but Uzushio doesn't" she says and naruto smiles.
"Most believe Village before Everything but we Uzumaki believe Family comes first and if you protect family.. You are strong" naruto muses. The pair continued to talk until sleep claimed the auburn hair kunoichi. Naruto steps out on the front deck with his hands in his pockets, "Arise!" he utters, his shadow bubbling and several globs enter the water and shoot forth.
"Couldn't sleep" naruto says, glancing back to see tsunade or rather querehsha.
"This battle will put Uzushio on the radar of the Larger nations" querehsha says and naruto snorts.
"That's the idea.. It is high time the other Daimyo see the Power of one of their own.. All I'm doing is throwing stone into a stagnant lake... Or as Ashborn did before and stopped the Status Quo" naruto muses, as the pair look at the night sky and the lone moon among the clouds.
"Will Uzushio claim another Biju for itself" querehsha asks.
"Kurama did say to aid his siblings that wish to be free... They are in essence the Rulers of this world.. I'm amazed our fellow Monrach haven't attempted any measures against them" naruto says.
"There were talks but seeing the Biju are creations of the Otsutsuki or one Otsutsuki.. Antares chose not to attack" querehsha says and naruto chuckles with a wild look on his face.
"I hope he dances well... I look forward to our battle in the tower" naruto says and querehsha stares lovingly at her man's visage.
"I should let this one sleep.. Goodnight Naruto-kun" querehsha says and gives him a deep and passion filled kiss, before excusing herself.
#Land of Water - Rebel Stronghold#
Zabuza Momochi the leader of the rebellion to free both Mizu-no-kuni but Kirigakure no Sato was looking over the numerous maps to prepare for an assault on kirigakure. He is a tall and noticeably muscular man with light grayish skin, short spiky black hair, dark brown eyes, and small eyebrows. He wears a dark grey sleeveless shirt with light shoulder-straps and a circular mark on the back, sporting the kanji for demon and dark grey pants with bandages covering his mouth and lower half of his face. His scouts reported that yagura has completely cleared the lands leading into kirigakure and made a literal killing field of open area. What made things worse is the daimyo's seemingly blind eye to yagura's actions.
"As long as money flows.. His eyes are blind" zabuza muses. Standing next to zabuza was his faithful Haku and adopted son but also wielder of the Hyoton kekkei genkai.
"Many are blind to our suffering" haku says. He is an effeminate young man, who could easily pass as a beautiful woman with long black hair to his waist and dark eyes. He wears a similar outfit to zabuza with a green haori having white trimmings, and around his waist a brown sash with a fringed trail wrapped around his waist twice.
"Hopefully Mei can convince Uzushio to help us" zabuza says. Haku thought of his kohai as she was traveling with his secret lover shizuka, "I pray that she does" he says. The flap of their tent moves and in steps a former kunoichi of suna, now one of the pillars for kiri's rebellion along with another pillar and former member of the seven swords of mist.
"Shouldn't you two be resting" zabuza says. Ameyuri simply scoffs as Pakura approaches the table of maps, "Should you be as well" pakura says. She is fairly tall with fair skin and pupil-less brown eyes, green hair tied in a bun with a hair needle running through it and one short and long strands of hair with orange tips framing each side of her face. She wears a sleeveless, backless top and short tight pants, with two lapels on the front and the back. A white obi around her waist, as well as purple arm-warmers which extend up to her shoulders, and has bandages around her tights and ankles.
"Our leader needs no rest" ameyuri says, chuckling. She has long, red hair, black eyes with a simple cloth around her head, distinctively tied at both sides so as the ends of the material protrude upwards, while the remainder of her hair flows downwards. She wears a loose, pin-striped long-sleeve shirt with a dark obi around the waist, a black hakama, and striped leg-warmers.
"If we are to win.. Then that may be true" zabuza says. Pakura comes around the table and places zabuza's head to her stomach, "Remember what you're fighting for.. Kiri's freedom.. So children can breath free air" she says.
"I know but the odds are still against us" zabuza says. A messenger rushes in with heavy breaths, "Commander.. We got a message of Nadeshiko... Mei's mission was a success" she starts. The mood rises in the group and zabuza urges the messenger to continue, "The report goes on to say that Mei will be bringing several high profile allies... One of which is Zero the Black" she continues and the room goes deathly silent.
"Seriously?!.. The Black also known as Zero the Black.. Is coming here... Shit Mei struck gold" ameyuri says.
"That's not all rumors says Zero the Black is actually Naruto Uzumaki the son of the Summer Queen" pakura says.
"How positive are you about that" ameyuri says.
"I've crossed paths with Kushina Uzumaki" pakura says. Zabuza leans back in his chair with several thoughts in his head, "Then we have a powerful ally" he says. Suddenly another even more haggard messenger rushes in, "Z-zabuza-sama.. The Daimyo has been assassinated along with several high ranking noble clan members" he says and shock fills the room.
"By who?!" zabuza says, as the messenger catches his breath.
"K-kenshin Uesugi" the messenger says.
"The War God finally moved... This works in our favor.. Send word to Uesugi for a possible alliance" zabuza says and the messengers rush out.
"If we can get him and his forces on our side.. We may be able to launch a final offensive on Kirigakure itself" zabuza says.
"And Finally Free Mizu-no-kuni of civil war" pakura says.
#Land of Water - Daimyo Palace - Hours Earlier#
"Why hasn't Yagura finished off these Disgusting rebels" sneers one Reika Tsuchigumo. She has long flowing white hair and mesmerizing red eyes, wearing a scandalous furisode kimono.
"I agree with Reika.. This rebellion has lasted far too long" says Hiro Kagumoto and many of the other noble clan leaders agree. Lord Minase and daimyo of mizu greedily drink his wine with a sigh as his council bickers about the rebellion. The civil war keeps his pockets lined with money along with his council of nobles. The caste system instituted by his father kept those of low birth from ascending to high positions and the disgusting kekkei genkai wielders as a part of the lower ranks to be used and tossed aside. The door open and minase's samurai general and tactician kenshin enters with his delectable consort Kasuga.
"Kenshin what brings you here" minase says. Kenshin is tall and effeminate man but deadly with a sword, wearing tradition samurai attire of a light teal and white scheme with a covering over his head similar to a monk.
"Certain matters milord" kenshin says. Minase's gaze is not on kenshin but on kasuga, her form covered by a form-fitting kunoichi uniform, her blonde hair short with several bangs framing her face, two of which go down to her hips. Minase continues to listen to his council bicker but things start to change. It starts with a cough from one of the nobles but then another, then another, then another until all the noble clan heads were coughing violently and spitting up blood.
"What in Kami's name" minase shouts, shooting up from his chair and knocking it down. One by one the nobles die with looks of pain and asphyxiation, "The Heavens passed their divine judgement" kenshin says, shocking minase. The doors burst open as samurai pour into the room, "Y-you betrayed me Kenshin" minase shouts.
"I have Lord Minase... The Heavens whispered to me to take up arms... Too long has our country suffered by the Caste system the Previous Lord created and perpetuated by the the noble clans" kenshin starts.
"Even if you kill me.. Things will never change... Kirigakure will never follow you" minase shouts. Kenshin clicks his sword from its sheath before it leaves and blood sprays from minase's throat, his head falling from his body. Kenshin flicks the blood off of his sword and wipes it with some paper, before resheathing it and turning to kasuga.
"Make sure to secure the palace and the noble's forces" kenshin says and kasuga bows, with a loving look on her face. She and the samurai exit the room as kenshin remains with a shadow flicker in the corner, "I thank you for your support" he says.
"My Liege will be arriving soon to deal with Kirigakure" bellion said, from the shadows.
"The infamous Shadow Monarch" kenshin muses.
"Once Kirigakure has been dealt.. He would like your aid as the new Daimyo to meet with the other Daimyo during Konoha's Chunin Exams.. All he needs is a door" bellion said and vanishes. Kenshin looks out the window to the setting sun, "Changes are coming... The Heavens whisper to me" he thought.
#Land of Water - Kirigakure no Sato#
Yagura karatachi sits at his desk with a blank look on his face as signs the papers for execution of several of his ninja. He has short, messy, grey hair, pupil-less pink eyes with a stitch-like scar running from under his left eye, all the way down his cheek. He wears a grey, sleeveless shirt with the kiri hitai-ate attached to the front, as well as a short-sleeve mesh armour with a green poncho. He also wears a turquoise sash around his waist, paired with a matching green apron over his pants and a pair of brown boots. Like the soon to deceased nobles believes in caste system created by lord minase's father and perpetuated by his predecessor Rioto Kaguya. The doors of his office open as his last two loyal swords enter.
"You summoned us Yondaime-sama" mangetsu says. He is young man with purple eyes, shoulder-length, white hair and shark like teeth. He wears a black, sleeveless shirt, light-purple pants and striped leg-warmers with bandages around his neck.
"Yes... I've received a report from our naval contacts that a boat has entered our territory from the direction of Uzushio" yagura said.
"And.. Maybe it's some dumb tourists" kisame says. He is a very tall, muscular and handsome man with pale blue-grey skin with small, round, white eyes, three sets of curved facial markings under his eyes and shoulder-length wavy blue hair. He wears a dark sleeveless shirt paired with matching pants, a waist guard, and striped arm-leg warmers typical of the village.
"And maybe it is not" mangetsu said.
"He's right.. Perhaps Zabuza has finally decided to look outside for aid" yagura says.
"So what do want us to do.. Mizukage-sama" kisame says. Yagura leans back in his chair, "I want you to take two squads and intercept this boat.. If they are tourists.. Send them on their way but if they Aren't..." yagura said and kisame smirks, excusing himself.
"Should we kill them.. If they are from Uzushio.. We could use this to our advantage" mangetsu says.
"They don't need to be alive to do that.. Simply the illusion of being alive" yagura says and mangetsu bows his head. Yagura continues to plan and would not receive word of the nobles and daimyo's death until it was too late.
Two days later kisame and his forces were nearing the location of naruto's boat on a large frigate ship. The Monster of Kiri was itching for these tourists to not be tourists as he was swordsmen and battle was life. He didn't believe in the caste system but he loved fighting and serving kiri allowed him to fight and kill to his heart's content.
"We're nearing the ship.. It has stop moving" a crewmen says, from the cockpit above. Kisame adjusts his sword Samekiba an off-shoot of the original Samehada destroyed during the third war. One of men hands him some binoculars and kisame looks through to see the thirty foot power cruiser but also naruto waving.
"We'll meet them... Keep your guns on the ship to sink it" kisame shouts. The seas were fairly calm as kisame and about ten of his men leap off the boat and make their way towards the power cruiser. Naruto does the same and not hiding zetsuei in her harness around his waist, "Morning... Coffee" naruto says, with a cup of joe in his hand and about fifteen feet between them.
"Not even hiding who you are... Heh not bad.. So what does Uzushio want" kisame says. Naruto takes a sip from his mug which is actually strawberry milk, "What most people want... Freedom" he muses and kisame laugh a bit.
"Coming to a war torn country for freedom" kisame says, clicking his sword from its sheath. Naruto finishes his milk as the frigate behind kisame explodes from a pillar of energy, causing the shark man to whip around along with his forces.
"So then Kisame Hoshigaki... Allow me to introduce myself... I am Naruto Uzumaki and I challenge you to a Death match.. The loser's life is choice of the winner" naruto declares. Unlike his men who were rushing to the sinking ship he remains with a smirk on his face, "Uzumaki huh... I hear you Uzumaki have enough chakra to be considered a Biju" kisame says.
"The same could be said about you Tail-less Tailed Beast" naruto says. Kisame rolls his neck a few times with a chuckle, "Alright Uzumaki... I accept your challenge as a member of The Seven Swordsmen of Mist" he says, shifting to a Battojutsu stance. A clone pops to life next to him and takes his mug, returning to the boat to move it back from their battle.
"My men may join the fray" kisame says. Naruto shifts into his own battojutsu stance with a faint smile, "Then they go to a Certain Death" he says.
[Music: Bury the Light - Casey Edwards (Feat: Victor Borba)]
The tension slowly rises as naruto and kisame lock eyes on the other, the sounds of the open ocean echoing but naruto breaks the stand-off and shoots forward. Kisame draws quickly as naruto does the same with a loud clang, rippling the water around them. Kisame quickly back leaps as naruto's Quicksword churns to life, "Hoh.. You got good instincts" naruto says, getting a look at samekiba. It resembles a large katana, within a sleek dark blue sheath and kiri's symbol stamped on it, the guard is shaped like a shark tooth with the hilt being blue and white.
"You got some control over Futon to pull that off" kisame says and swings his several times, "Suiton: Mizu Kamikiri" he shouts. Naruto dodges the water slicers and counters with the kazekiri, meeting kisame with several heavy swings and both blocking cleanly but neither speak as their swords did their talking. Naruto breaks open kisame's guard and sends a gatotsu thrust but the shark man parries the strike. Naruto back steps with Shukuchi and leaps with zetsuei shimmering and leaving after images, "Mikazuki no Mai" he thought, attacking kisame from all sides. However the monster of kiri melts into water and appears behind naruto with samekiba raised but misses the downward strike, creating several small waves.
"Felt the power behind that" naruto says and kisame smirks. He shoots forward with Shukuchi with a wide and heavy swing but naruto somersaults over it, closing the gap with a flurry of strikes but kisame blocks cleanly and evenly. However naruto manages to break open kisame's guard again and cocks his left fist, cracking the shark man square in the face, sending him flying back with stars in his beady eyes. Kisame corrects after two hops along the water and rubs his sore jaw but a laugh escapes his lips.
"Hehe.. This is getting good" kisame thought, channeling chakra into his samekiba and lowers it into the water.
"Suiton: Goshokuzame" kisame shouts, firing several sharks from the water. Naruto surfs along the water into a spinning leap, "Futon: Swallow Tail Fury" he shouts, creating several swallow-tail birds. The swallow-tails and sharks slam into one another with a rain of water as the pair meet once again in a furious barrage of swings, so much it knocks their swords from their hands.
"Ora.. Dora" both shout, into a barrage of punches with neither blocking. The flurry breaks as kisame lifts naruto with a uppercut into a heavy and chopping right, sending him flying with several hops. Kisame reverse-summon his samekiba via a seal on his right hand, before shooting forward with Shukuchi to strike naruto but a clang erupts. Naruto has zetsuei in his hand with a grin on his face, "Warm up is over... How about we switch things up" he says. Kisame has an equally wild grin on his face, "I agree" he says and both leap back, sheathing their swords and both quickly flash signs.
"Suiton: Suiryudan no Jutsu" both shout, creating a water dragon. The dragons swirl around one another and crash into the ocean as both shoot forward with naruto meeting kisame with a delayed dropkick. Kisame crashes under the waves but he flashes signs to snake, before slapping his hands together.
"Suiton: Daikodan no Jutsu" kisame thought, thrusting his hands forward. A massive shark erupts towards naruto with its mouth wide open and growing larger by the moment.
"Shit" naruto thought, as the massive shark crashes upward and out the water. Kisame smirks but it slips as light purple flames explode his giant shark, the source being from naruto as he lands. Scales were running down naruto's face and arms, his steel-blue eyes more draconic and his form more muscular.
"So the rumors about the Summer Queen are true" kisame says and redraws samekiba, "Let's turn it up a little more" he adds. Naruto watches with a grin on his face as kisame cuts open his arm with samekiba and the sword chitters as it breaks down, altering kisame's body. His body gaining girth and ripping away his shirt. His form becomes more and more shark like with a shark's head, large fins on both arms and a large tail.
"Well a Shark vs a Dragon" naruto says. The pair start to circle one another and drawing closer with each round, both flashing signs with kisame stopping at the seal of confrontation and naruto stopping at horse.
"Suiton: Senshokuko... Katon: Goka Mekkyaku" both shout. A large wave of sharks rise and make their way towards as naruto unleashes a wave of light purple flames, both crash into each other and create a massive geyser of steam. Kisame narrows his eyes to focus on movement as naruto flashes in front him, "What?!" kisame hisses, his eyes widening. Naruto connects with a body-blow as white energy surges through his body, causing kisame to nearly buckle. The monster of kiri protects his chin for the follow-up but it never comes, "W-what another body-blow?!" kisame thought, as naruto connects and he feels several of his ribs crack. Blood spews from kisame's mouth as his transformation ceases and he crashes forward but naruto catches him.
"This time around.. We'll be friends" naruto thought, smirking.[music ends]
#-#
Kisame awakes with a start and looks around to find himself chained to the bow of naruto's boat, "W-what" kisame whispers and looks to see naruto sitting cross-legged and a bottle of bourbon with two glasses between them.
"Why am I still alive" kisame says. Naruto slips a menthol into his mouth with a light, "Still time... But I had fun fighting you and perhaps I can spare you for your loyalty" he says. Kisame shifts slightly with a groan as naruto pours some bourbon, "I had my lover heal you enough" naruto muses.
"So you want my loyalty.. We're enemies" kisame says. Naruto takes a drag with a exhale but sucks up the smoke through his nose before it escapes, "True but your eyes tell me you want more... You're tired of the mundane and arrogant leaders.. You follow the strong and strive to go higher... I can give you that" he says.
"Pretty words Gaki" kisame says.
"I bet you don't want to die a meaningless death" naruto says and kisame's eyes narrow, "Because neither do I... I want to die on the battlefield atop the corpses of those I killed" he adds. Kisame looks into naruto's steel blue eyes and could see him standing atop a pile of corpses with a bloodstained sword and a wild look on his face.
"So you're coming to Kiri for what the thrill of fighting" kisame says. Naruto pours some bourbon into the second glass and pushes it to kisame, "A little but I want to throw a stone into a stagnant lake" naruto starts. Kisame looks down at the liquor but back to naruto, "Throwing a stone into a stagnant lake huh.. Change is what you offer" kisame says.
"Yes... Other Daimyo... Kage... Leaders... They sit around and let others do things for them... I don't that.. I want to be on the frontline... So I offer you a chance to Satiate your thrill for battle and give you a place in this world" naruto says. Kisame remains silent as he reaches for the glass, "I may kill you in the future if I accept" he says, downing the contents. Naruto chuckles as he downs his own and pours them both more, "It'll make life worth living" he says.
"Fine... We did declare that the winner of our duel would hold the life of the loser in their hands" kisame says and naruto smirks. A clone approaches with samekiba in his hand as naruto rises to his full height, "He'll take you to Uzushio... My mother will do the vetting" naruto says.
"How..." kisame starts, before he and the clone vanish with shadow exchange. Naruto spreads his arms apart with a smile on his face, "This time... You and I will best friends" he muses.
#Land of Water - Southeast - Hakujin#
Naruto's boat sits about three miles from shore as everyone packs everything they need for the journey, "You don't think Kushina-sama will be too harsh with Kisame" zetsuei asks. Naruto adjust his goggles with a small drag, "Doubt it.. She knows if I vouch for someone.. They are kosher" he thought.
"We're ready" tsunade says. Naruto turns with a flap of his coat and tosses his butt over the side, "Let's be on our way... Mei you are point" he says, pulling up his mask. Mei adjust her robe with and all of them leap off the boat, "I hate this Water-walking" thorkell shouts.
"Then Swim for three miles" naruto shouts and thorkell scoffs.
"What about your boat" mei asks.
"My clone will take it to friendly waters and from there it'll be taken home" naruto replies and mei slowly nods. She had watched the battle between naruto and kisame, two titans doing battle and it spurred her to get stronger.
"What will do with Kisame" mei asks, as the night sky cover their approach to shore. Naruto looks to the cloudy sky with a smile, "He'll become a member of Espada.. I'll give him a Real purpose unlike the Mizukage" he replies and mei doesn't press for more information. The shore soon comes into view as naruto has his senses stretched and no enemies were in sight.
"Where's Rebel HQ" tsunade asks, checking her gear and making sure it wasn't too wet. Thorkell plops on the sand with a huff as kaguya also checks her gear, "Why didn't you let me fight Kisame" he shouts, while mei pulls out a map for naruto to see.
"Because I saw him first" naruto shouts but thorkell scoffs, muttering to himself.
"We're here and our base is in Satsuma" mei says, as tsunade approaches and looks at the map.
"So about a two-day journey" tsunade says and mei slowly nods.
"Any way to contact Zabuza and let him know to expect us" naruto asks and mei nods.
"Once we reach town.. I can send an encrypted message and have someone meet us half way" mei says and naruto nods, pulling his mask down.
"Does Kiri patrol any area around here" naruto asks.
"Not unless there is a Gate" mei replies, as thorkell gets to his feet.
"Then can we clear a Gate on the way" thorkell asks but naruto shakes his head, causing the demon to pout like a child.
"For now we focus on getting to Rebel HQ" naruto says and all of them nod, before they take off a moderate pace for satsuma. The journey to satsuma was froth with no dangers other than thorkell whining about not fighting kisame. Because of this mei got to see how much of tank the viking was and a bit of his abilities. Buntan Kurosuki the daughter of raiga was the one to meet them half way to satsuma.
"Kind of a small group" buntan said. She has short and straight combed-back blonde hair, blue eyes and sharp teeth. She wears a red, pinstripe and sleeveless dress with a short skirt and leggings of the same design, with a long-sleeve black jinbaori war coat having a tan lining and grey hemming.
"However they are worth it" mei states. Buntan looks over the group but more so the towering thorkell, "Well we'll see but we got a bout of good news" she says and mei arches an eyebrow, as they left the small village.
"The Daimyo was assassinated in coup lead by Kenshin Uesugi... Hell he even killed a lot of the noble clan members" buntan explains, shocking them and naruto played his part.
"How accurate is this information" naruto asks and buntan gives naruto a suspicious glance, "Confirmed... Zabuza-sama is planning for an assault on Kirigakure itself" buntan explains.
"Zehahaha.. Looks like we'll get to fight sooner rather than later" thorkell says. The journey devolves into silence as the group continues to satsuma.
#Rebel HQ - Satsuma#
"To think someone as lauded as The Black to be young" zabuza says. Naruto slips a menthol into his mouth with a smirk, "Age is a number.. A toddler can kill an adult if pushed" naruto says and zabuza chuckles.
"True.. I take it Buntan told you about the Situation concerning the Daimyo" zabuza starts, as naruto sparks up with a nod.
"The Lord of Echigo finally moved.. Victory must have been certain for him to move against his Lord" naruto says.
"It would seem so.. I'm waiting to meet with him concerning bringing a full scale assault on Kirigakure" zabuza says. Naruto taps his ashes with a nod, "Having the War God on your side takes a burden off.. As you don't have to worry about your rear flank... Perhaps I can deal with the front" he says, taking a drag and exhaling some smoke but sucking it up through his nose.
"And how would you do that" zabuza asks and naruto gains a faint smile.
"Well since you offered up Ten A-class gates and Mei.. I feel the need to work for it... So Thorkell and I will soften up Kirigakure for your forces" naruto says and zabuza's breath hitches but a starts laughing in his throat.
"Hmmhmmhmm... You got a set of balls.. You should know that Yagura has created a killing field" zabuza says and naruto grins. Naruto leaves zabuza's tent to continue his planning to assault kiri, "Do you think you can draw Yagura out" zetsuei says.
"Between Thorkell and I.. I think we can" naruto thought. He makes his way to the tent set up by mei for naruto and fellow espada, finding them with tsunade berating thorkell about who knows what.
"So when are we fighting" thorkell asks.
"Dunno.. Zabuza is still planning things but I told him we would be the vanguard.. Kaguya will be our overwatch and Tsunade" naruto says.
"I'll handle healing" tsunade says. Naruto then looks to thorkell with a look, "Say Thorkell.. Why don't we go for a Walk" he says and a smile broadens on the demon's face.
"I like the sound of that.. A nice Walk through Mist" thorkell says. Naruto slips on his coat with a roll of his neck, "Tell Zabuza we went on a stroll" he says, as thorkell follows with his axe. Tsunade covers her face with a sigh as kaguya breaks out a container of chocolate chip cookies, "Should we follow" kaguya asks.
"No.. We do what he said.. I'll heal and you handle overwatch" tsunade says and takes a cookie, causing kaguya to pout. The tent flap opens and mei enters but doesn't see naruto, "Where's Naruto and his giant friend" she asks.
"They went for a walk through mist" kaguya says and reluctantly offers mei one of her cookies. The auburn beauty takes the cookie and takes a bite but notes the good taste, "This is good" mei says.
"They are.. Naru-kun is a very good cook" tsunade says.
"You'll get to experience it when we all go home" kaguya adds and mei lowers her head.
"It won't be too bad.. Naruto did say if things don't work out.. You can return here" tsunade comments, setting up her things.
"Um tell me... What is Naruto like.. How can you fall in love with someone despite the age gap" mei asks.
"Well its about Four years between us but if you want an age Gap that goes to Kaguya... I met Naruto when he ascended to become Daimyo.. His clan sheltered mine after my great grandfather's death.. I thought he was some immature brat but he saved my life in a Gate and time passed I fell in love with him.. Despite being younger than me" tsunade explains.
"I met Naruto when he was about eight.. His mother brought him to our forest in the Tower... He was nice to me when others were not... I don't show my emotions very well and that didn't matter to Naruto... He opened my heart when no one else could" kaguya explains, continuing on her cookies.
"Naru-kun has an old soul you could say" tsunade says, not wanting to let on about naruto's previous life or lives.
"It would seem so.. He seems to act much older than he is" mei says and both women have a knowingly look.
"Anyway.. It is actually good you came.. I'll be providing medical and healing.. So if you can lead me to the medical area.. I'll get started" tsunade says and mei slowly nods.
"I will accompany you as overwatch" kaguya says and brings along her cookies. Mei leads them to the southeastern part of the camp with several large tents set up for the injured.
"Stand back" tsunade says and bites her lips to draw blood. She smears some on her hand, before slamming her hand on the ground a puff of smoke erupts. Mei gasps as a large slug the size of tsunade was next to her, having a white color scheme with dark teal stripes.
"How may I be of service my Lady" the slug says, with a soft but regal tone.
"Katsuya.. I need you split apart and start moderate to perhaps extreme healing" tsunade says and katsuya splits into smaller version of herself to head to each person.
"Katsuya can start and I'll handle the more serious cases" tsunade says and mei nods.
"Ah.. Naruto and Thorkell are going to Kirigakure" kaguya says, suddenly and mei gasps in shock with wide eyes but tsunade sighs.
つづく
A/N-2: Oh no a Cliffhanger. Sorry about but I hit a 10k word count and wanted to spice things up. I know I said above it would be closing in on the Chunin but I changed my mind. I hoped you like the fight between Kisame and Naruto. It mirrors their fight from the previous world and Naruto wins but keeps Kisame alive. Also Kisame wields Samekiba instead of Samehada, which Shizuma wielded in the previous world.
Mei also learns a bit about Naruto and his ladies. Also what sort Hunter ability should Mei have. The root cause of the Civil War and the scene with the nobles were inspired by The Seventh Swordsman by Blackwolf501. I also have Pakura and dating Zabuza, also Haku dating Shizuka. Tell me what you think of those pairings.
Lastly next chapter picks up with Naruto and Thorkell heading to Kiri. Tell me what you think so far as a lot of people favorite and follow but don't say anything. Ideas for Gates or Levels in the Heaven Tower are Welcome too. As always Thank you for reading and Stay Frosty.
Character Legend
Kenshi Uesugi: Sengoku Basara
Kasuga: Sengoku Basara