Disclaimer: I do not own any of the content following this statement. Masashi Kishimoto owns all titles, names, and plots.
Author Note: working on the badass version of Naruto, and I am working up to it.
Homecoming
The Leaf Village gates rose ahead of him, weathered but standing firm, a sight that had grown foreign to him in the months he'd been gone. He remembered the young Genin who had marveled at the wide world outside these gates, only wanting to run as far and fast as he could. Now these same gates were a welcoming sight that filled his heart with joy and longing. Naruto slowed his steps taking in the village he loved. Nearly eight months had passed since he'd last seen this view, and now it felt like returning from another life.
As he approached, two familiar figures stepped forward to block his path. Kotetsu Hagane and Izumo Kamizuki, the Eternal Chunin gate guards, stood watch, their faces a mix of disbelief and astonishment as they recognized the figure before them.
"Is it you, Naruto?" Kotetsu asked, squinting to ensure he wasn't seeing a ghost, knowing that the new seals around the gate would have peeled back any illusion.
Naruto nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "It's me," he replied, his voice rough from not being used for the last week as he traveled around any small village or settlements on the way.
Izumo crossed his arms, a half-smirk forming. "Took you long enough. What's it been, eight months? You think you can just stroll in like you were on vacation?" His joke fell on deaf ears as Naruto stared at him in confusion.
Naruto scratched the back of his head, an apologetic grin breaking through his fatigue. "I didn't mean to worry you guys. Things… got complicated." this back and forth was getting old, he could brush past them but that would cause more harm than good.
Kotetsu gave him a good-natured shake of the head. "It's more than that, Naruto. The village's been buzzing with rumors ever since you left. Some of us weren't sure you'd be coming back. The Inuzuka teams said you fought a God or some other crazy talk and your wives have been raising hell with the civilian council "
Naruto's gaze darkened slightly. "I'm back now, and there's a lot I need to catch up on. But first…" His eyes shifted to the village ahead, where his family waited. "I've got people to see."
The guards exchanged a glance, sensing the change in his tone, and then stepped aside to let him through. As he walked through the familiar gates, Naruto felt the weight of his absence pressing down on him. Every street and building felt touched by time, a reflection of the months he'd been away fighting battles most villagers couldn't even imagine.
He paused, looking around the village. He had a choice to make: go see the Hokage first, as he should, or rush home to Karin and Tayuya. The pull to see his children burned fiercely in his heart, but his duty to the village was stronger. Gritting his teeth, he turned toward the Hokage Tower.
Naruto moved through the familiar halls of the Hokage Tower, each step firm and steady. The usual buzzing of conversation among the shinobi fell silent as he passed, eyes following him with surprise and curiosity. There was a difference in his bearing now, something that hadn't been there when he'd left. He didn't hesitate or second-guess himself. Eight months had changed him, and the look in his eyes said he had faced the darkness and come out on top, this Naruto knew exactly what he was here to do.
He reached the Hokage's office and knocked, a forceful rap that was neither hurried nor tentative. Moments later, Tsunade's voice called from within, "Come in."
Naruto entered, closing the door behind him with a calm precision. Tsunade sat behind her desk, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied him. She leaned back, folding her hands together thoughtfully. She waited, and waited but no Baa-Chan was yelled out only Naruto calmly standing at the front of her desk.
"Back at last, I see," she said, her tone neutral but her gaze assessing. "Eight months is a long time, Naruto. I'd like to know what you've been doing."
Naruto met her gaze head-on, not a trace of his former restlessness or the need for approval showing. "Training. Fighting. Surviving. I found peace within myself and then with the Nine-Tails. We've reached an understanding." He crossed his arms, his voice calm but intense. "We know the Akatsuki won't stop until they get what they want, and I'm prepared to make sure that never happens."
Tsunade's brow lifted, clearly caught off guard by his confidence and the gravity in his voice. "Peace with the Nine-Tails? And what does that mean for us, Naruto? You're a Jinchūriki—you know what kind of threat that makes you."
Naruto nodded, meeting her gaze without a trace of defensiveness. "I know exactly what I'm capable of, and I understand the risks. But you need to know—I won't just be a weapon for the village anymore." He leaned forward, his expression resolute. "I'm here to protect the Leaf and everyone in it, but I won't be handled. Not anymore. I'm a clan head, a father, and I'm going to be the next Hokage." His smile at that last part brought a flash of the old, brash Naruto—the one who had once saved Tsunade from herself.
Tsunade leaned forward, studying him intently. The Hokage's office was silent, thick with unspoken tension, but also with a new respect that hadn't existed before. "And what do you intend to do now?"
"I intend to finish what I started," he replied, his voice steady. "The Akatsuki are still out there, and they're getting stronger. We can't just keep playing defense; we need a real strategy." He glanced at the map on the table by her desk, pinpointing locations that had been marked. "We need to go after them, and we need to take the offensive."
A small smile tugged at Tsunade's lips, though her eyes were serious. "So, you've returned with a plan?"
"More than just a plan. I'm ready," he said, his voice edged with a gravity that silenced the room. Tsunade's sharp eyes caught the transformation in him—a hardened resolve that spoke of lessons learned and burdens accepted. It wasn't just strength; it was the understanding of what it truly meant to bear the mantle placed upon him.
"I've sent hundreds of clones across every land. I'll find their stronghold, and when I do, I'll put an end to this chaos," he added, a quiet intensity in his words.
Tsunade nodded slowly, the weight of trust and expectation heavy between them. "Then I'll hold you to that. We've been thrown into disarray too many times. No more surprises."
Naruto nodded, the will of fire in his eyes unwavering. "There won't be any surprises from me. I know exactly what needs to be done."
Tsunade exhaled, feeling the shift in his presence, the assurance that he was no longer the unpredictable boy she'd once known. "In that case, welcome home, Naruto. Go see those wives of yours and then we can talk of your plans."
…
The Uzumaki Clan building towered above the village at seven stories, the tallest structure in Konoha. Built from stone and steel, its design radiated strength and permanence. Across the top floor, the bold letters of the Uzumaki Clan stood out, visible from nearly every corner of the village, a constant reminder of their growing influence. Within walking distance of the river that flowed through Konoha, the building's location made it an ideal hub for clan members and visitors alike.
Naruto stood in the bustling street below, looking up with a grin. The ground level hummed with activity as merchants and nobles came and went, many from the Haruno family, who managed the high-end shops that drew people from across the lands. Their success was obvious, and he felt a hint of pride seeing the village so alive and his clan connected to the wider world.
Stepping toward the main entrance, Naruto was unexpectedly greeted by a swarm of young women, all clamoring for his attention, many openly asking if he was free later. Caught off guard, he brushed them off, navigating his way through the crowd until he reached the lobby doors. Just in time, a Yamanaka guard swiftly closed the door behind him, shutting out the eager fans.
"Thanks," Naruto said, adjusting his jacket, which one of the women had managed to partially unbutton. "What was that all about?"
The guard chuckled, returning to his post. "You know how it is—women drawn to fame and power. And you've got plenty of both." He shared a grin with Naruto, who laughed it off, heading for the elevators.
As he waited, Naruto took a moment to glance around the lobby, feeling both the weight of responsibility and a swell of pride for what the Uzumaki Clan had built. The marble floor, a striking swirl of blue and white that mirrored the waters around his homeland, gleamed under the soft lighting, polished to a high gloss. The space was open and welcoming, yet held a grounded sense of resilience and power that reflected the clan's core values. Family, loyalty, and ambition radiated from this foundation, and Naruto knew this was just the beginning. He was ready to see it grow, prepared to raise the Uzumaki name to new heights, for his family and the village's future.
When the doors opened and he walked out onto the top floor of the long hall leading to the center double doors that would open to the family's private quarters he paused. He wasn't afraid as some would think but what to say after being gone for so long. He looked back on his life and he was a man of action not of sweat words. The image of him with flowers popped into his head and he swore at himself for not thinking of that before now.
As he struggled with his inner thoughts, he could hear on the other side of the door, "Okay, I got it! If those dog boys won't listen to me, then I'll kick their asses!" Tayuya's voice rang out, filled with her signature fierceness. The door swung open, and they both froze—brown eyes met blue. Tayuya's hand fell to her side, and a look of surprise crossed her face. "Fuck!" she exclaimed before letting out a scream that would have woken the dead if not for the soundproof seals on every wall of the top floor.
She leaped into his arms with a burst of energy, wrapping her legs around his waist and hugging him so tightly he lost his breath. Instinctively, he lifted her off the ground, returning her embrace just as fiercely.
"Is this real? You're back!" Tayuya's voice was a mix of disbelief and joy, her laughter echoing in the hallway, contagious enough to draw the attention of others.
Before he could respond, Karin burst through the front doors, her eyes wide and curious. "What's going on in here?" she asked, her tone a blend of concern and excitement. When she saw the two of them, her face broke into a grin, and she couldn't help but jump up and down in delight.
"Is it really you, Naruto?" she shouted, her laughter joining Tayuya's as she rushed toward them, nearly colliding with Tayuya in her enthusiasm. The three of them became a whirlwind of laughter and joyful chaos, echoing through the hall as they celebrated his return.
"You guys are too much!" Naruto chuckled, his heart swelling at their enthusiasm. "I missed you both!"
As they continued to laugh and scream with joy, the tension and darkness of his past months melted away, replaced by the warmth of family and the bonds that had only grown stronger in his absence.
….
The rest of the day and into the night was filled with laughter and excitement as everyone insisted that Naruto recount the stories of his journeys over the past few months. With each tale, the atmosphere grew more animated, especially when he detailed the battle against the demigod. Just as he reached a particularly thrilling moment, Tayuya burst from the room, only to return moments later with a small army of children and their nannies, who had been keeping the energetic group in line.
"Okay, okay, you know the drill! Everyone in line!" Tayuya commanded, her tone playful yet firm. The children scrambled into position, forming a line from tallest to shortest with impressive discipline as if they had done this countless times before.
Standing proudly behind the tallest, a mischievous blonde boy with a wicked grin and a cut on his lip, Tayuya announced, "This is Kazuki!" She placed her hand on his shoulder, and he puffed out his chest with pride.
She introduced the rest of the kids one by one, her voice bubbling with affection. "Next is Kureha!" She gestured to a bright-eyed girl with pigtails, who beamed up at Naruto. "And this is Homura," she added, pointing to a girl with a spirited smile.
"Then we have Akari, Kazuha, and Homura," she continued, the names rolling off her tongue as she placed her hand on each head in turn, their excitement bubbling over. "Next is Akae, Kurenai, Kaede, Arashi, and Ame!" Each child giggled and waved, soaking up the attention like sponges.
"And we will soon be joined by Shinjiro," Tayuya said, rubbing her large belly affectionately, her expression a mix of joy and anticipation.
"Don't forget Jirou!" Karin called out from her chair, her own belly slightly rounder, a playful glint in her eyes.
"Okay, brats, you know the drill—GET HIM!" Tayuya yelled, and the room erupted in a cacophony of cheers as nine redheaded girls and one blonde boy launched themselves at Naruto, all screaming with delight.
"Whoa!" Naruto laughed, caught off guard as the children piled onto him, their weight tumbling him backward into a soft pile of cushions. The warmth of their bodies enveloped him, and he couldn't help but laugh along, joy bubbling up inside him.
"Hey, hey! Easy there!" he chuckled, attempting to wrangle the giggling chaos as they bounced around him like a bunch of playful puppies. "You guys are too strong!"
Tayuya stood back, her arms crossed with a smirk on her face as she watched the scene unfold. "Look at them! They love you!" she said, her eyes sparkling with pride. "They've been waiting for this for months."
Kazuki, who had managed to climb onto Naruto's back, yelled out, "Tell us more stories, Papa! Tell us about fighting the monsters!"
The children erupted in a chorus of requests, each voice competing to be heard, filling the room with a delightful symphony of enthusiasm. Naruto's heart swelled with warmth as he glanced at Tayuya and Karin, their faces lit up with joy as they watched the moment unfold.
"Alright, alright! Just let me catch my breath first!" Naruto called out, a grin plastered on his face. He looked around at the lively group, feeling the weight of his past challenges lift away, replaced by the boundless energy of family and love surrounding him.
As the laughter and playful chaos swirled around him, Naruto felt a profound sense of longing finally quenched by the raw, exhilarating joy of being home, surrounded by the family he loved. It was a moment rich with stories and a much-needed respite from the battles that had defined his recent months. Yet, beneath this warmth and celebration, he couldn't shake the feeling that the shadows of his past adventures loomed just out of sight, poised to step forward and shape the story yet to come.
…
After all the children had been carried to bed, having passed out at some point during the storytelling, Naruto found himself in bed, flanked by Tayuya on one side and Karin on the other. The room was dim, the only light coming from the flickering candle on the bedside table, casting shadows that danced eerily across the walls. They had spent the last hour reviewing the grim realities that loomed over the village and the Land of Fire.
"Ino is the head of Root?" he asked for the tenth time, still struggling to accept the weight of this revelation.
"Yeah, yeah, the blonde bimbo is good at it too," Tayuya said, a smirk playing on her lips as she held Naruto's arm close to her side, her expression a mix of amusement and disbelief.
"But I don't understand. Why won't Granny let you sit in the red chair?" he pressed, turning to Karin, whose anxious fingers twisted her hair, betraying her discomfort.
Karin's gaze darted to the window as if searching for answers in the shadows outside. "It's not just about her decision, Naruto. The council is in disarray. Old loyalties are crumbling, and the Land of Fire is vulnerable. We need a leader who can command respect, and right now, we're not sure if we should force the issue or let the Daimyo decide."
The tension in the air thickened as Naruto processed her words. The shadows of his past adventures felt more palpable now, like specters watching over them.
"So, what are we going to do?" he asked, his voice low and steady, feeling the weight of the moment settle heavily on his shoulders.
Tayuya squeezed his arm tighter, grounding him. "We're going to gather our allies and strategize. It's time for action, not just stories. The Hyuga will follow you to the ends of the earth and the Inuzuka not far behind, it's the others I am worried about."
Karin nodded in agreement, her earlier nervousness fading as determination replaced it. "The village is fractured between the clans and the civilians, and we have to unite it before it tears itself apart. We can't afford to let the old ways dictate our future. It's time for the clan council to reclaim its authority."
"It's authority? You mean with you at the head of the table," he said, glancing at Karin, who began to pull at her hair again.
"You can't be Hokage and council head at the same time," she shot back, though her tone softened as she leaned against him. "Besides, it would be boring for you, all those meetings about trade and building permits."
As Naruto lay there, wedged between the two fierce women, the flickering candlelight cast shadows that mirrored the uncertainty of their path ahead. This was no longer just about family stories; it was about navigating a storm of their own making that threatened to engulf them all. The weight of their decisions loomed large, each choice echoing with the potential to reshape their world in ways they could scarcely comprehend.
"And what about you?" Naruto asked, glancing at Tayuya, who rested with her eyes closed.
"I am the first wife," she replied, her voice low but firm. "You two can play your games outside these walls, but in this house, I rule. All the children are mine, mine alone to train, to teach the real shinobi way. The Uzumaki clan, whether blonde or red, will not bow down or be betrayed ever again."
Naruto could sense the fox within him growling in agreement with Tayuya as she lay there, drifting between sleep and wakefulness.
"I will speak to the Hokage, and if necessary, the Dynomo himself," he said, determination rising in his chest. "We will not resort to force to claim the red chair. Agreed?"
He locked eyes with Karin, her bright red gaze steady and intense. After a moment of twisting her hair, she blinked, and the fire in her expression faded. "Agreed," she said, her voice soft, conceding to his demand but with an undercurrent to it. At that moment, she might have appeared compliant, yet the flicker in her eyes hinted at a different agenda simmering just beneath the surface.
The air in the room thickened with tension as they acknowledged the gravity of their pact. They stood at the precipice of change, acutely aware that the choices they made now would resonate through the halls of the village and beyond. Each of them understood the stakes involved: alliances to forge, battles to be won, and a legacy to build.
In the shadows of the flickering candlelight, the future of the Uzumaki clan rested precariously in their hands, and the battle for their place in the world had only just begun. Tayuya's last words echoed in the room, strong and fierce: "Never again." As Naruto settled into the weight of their pact, Karin felt the familiar tug of ambition rising within her, a reminder that her path to power was just beginning. No matter what form it took—behind the Hokage's chair or in the Red Chair—she would not allow her plans to be brushed aside.
….
Kakashi and Sasuke sat around the kitchen Island, the silence punctuated only by the clinking of utensils against plates as they methodically ate their breakfast. Tayuya moved about the kitchen with an air of purpose, humming softly to herself as she set more food in front of them, ensuring their plates overflowed. She seemed to be enjoying acting like the housewife as they impatiently waited for Naruto.
"Eat up," she insisted, her voice light yet firm. "You'll need your strength."
Both men exchanged glances, the unspoken tension hanging in the air as they recalled the whispers of Naruto's return and the battles he had fought. Tayuya had intercepted them at the front door, her gaze sharp and persistent, insisting they finish their meal before Naruto woke.
"Why the rush?" Kakashi asked, his tone casual, though the glimmer in his eye hinted at deeper curiosity.
"Trust me," Tayuya replied, a smirk tugging at her lips. "You'll want to be ready for whatever training he will want to do."
Sasuke, ever the skeptic, raised an eyebrow but continued to eat, his mind swirling with thoughts of the past months and the changes that lay ahead. He was trained by Itachi, the best the clan has ever had, Naruto could not have grown to outdo him, no that wasn't impossible.
The bedroom door creaked open, and down the short hallway strode Karin, her hair still damp from a recent shower. The silk of her robes flowed around her like a wave of blue and red, drawing the eye as she moved with an effortless grace. As she passed, her fingertip brushed lightly against Sasuke's shoulder, the gesture both casual and deliberate.
"How is Itachi?" she asked, her voice low and calm, each word laden with unspoken implications that only he could decipher.
"She and the baby are doing fine," Sasuke replied a hint of pride in his tone. "My son sleeps through the night, unlike some other children I've heard about." His eyes flicked to Tayuya, fully aware of the chaos that had reigned in her household with ten screaming children vying for attention every night.
Karin's lips curled into a knowing smile, an acknowledgment of the strain that Tayuya had faced. "She's handling it well, though, isn't she?" Her gaze was steady, gauging Sasuke's reaction.
"My wife is Uchiha," Sasuke said simply as if that alone sufficed to explain the bond they shared, a flicker of admiration creeping into his voice.
"Let us know if you need anything," Karin replied, pouring tea into a cup, her gaze fixed on Sasuke through the rising steam.
Sasuke held her gaze, his mind racing. In that moment, his only thought was that he wouldn't let her into his house even if it were on fire and she wielded the only water jutsu in the village.
"Yes, I'll tell Itachi you asked about her," he said, locking eyes with Karin. But unlike everyone else, she did not flinch or look away from his cursed eyes. Instead, her expression remained steady, revealing an unyielding strength that both unnerved and worried him.
The tension in the air thickened, each silently weighing the other's motives, both aware of the fragile alliances that tethered them in this web of family and obligation. As the steam from the tea curled between them, it felt like the beginning of a storm—one that neither of them could predict but both sensed was brewing just out of sight.
"Kakashi! Sasuke! I didn't know you were here!" Naruto boomed, bursting into the kitchen with his usual infectious energy. He clapped both of his old teammates on the back, the hearty sound echoing around the room.
In his usual style, he swiped a piece of food from Sasuke's plate, dodging as Sasuke's hand shot out, knife in hand. "Hey! Get your own breakfast, idiot!" Sasuke grumbled, annoyance flashing in his dark eyes, though a faint smirk betrayed his amusement.
Kakashi leaned back, his expression as unreadable as ever behind his mask, a slight smile tugging at the edges of his lips. "Naruto," he drawled, tone casual, "the Hokage thought you might want to show us what you've picked up while you were away."
Naruto looked between Sasuke and Kakashi, excitement sparking in his eyes. "Afraid I'll leave you both in the dust?" he teased.
Sasuke returned Naruto's grin with a smirk of his own, flicking his knife upright as Naruto reached for more food. "Let's find out. The training grounds are waiting."
Kakashi stretched, his relaxed posture belying his sharp gaze. "If you're as good as they say, maybe I'll get a chance to relax. Shizune has been asking me to take fewer missions lately."
They stood up, heading toward the door. Naruto's energy radiated outward, a stark contrast to the weightier air in the room as Tayuya and Karin exchanged a quick look. Tayuya leaned against the counter, arms crossed, while Karin's fingers traced the rim of her teacup. "Be careful," Karin called out, her voice steady but edged with concern.
"Don't fucking hurt them, " Tayuya added with a grin
Naruto flashed them a grin and gave a thumbs-up over his shoulder. "Don't worry! I've got this!"
As the men stormed out, eager for the chase to beat each other into the ground, Tayuya turned to face Karin, her gaze sharp. "So, now that Naruto's back, are you going to stand down?"
Karin set her teacup aside with measured calm, ringing a bell to summon the cooks and maids now that they were alone. "Stand down? Hardly," she replied, her voice cool. "He may be back, but he's blind to what the village truly needs. Strong, uncompromising leadership," she added, a faint disdain in her voice as she pushed the cup toward the edge of the counter, dismissing the more tedious duties she'd come to resent in her role as a wife.
"No question we protect the clan," Tayuya agreed, her voice dropping as she leaned in. "But flirting with crossing a line that risks opposing him? That's a dangerous game I won't play."
Karin's expression steeled. "I'm not opposing him," she clarified, each word as deliberate as her gaze. "But the clans need a leader with a singular focus. A full-time leader—not a Hokage stretched thin. And I'm confident I can convince Naruto to see it that way."
Tayuya scoffed, stepping back as a small army of cooks entered to clear the morning's remnants. "You'll need the backing of the Shadow for that. And she has her own ideas about Naruto."
Karin smirked as they slipped from the room, both careful not to make things too easy for the inevitable spies lurking nearby. "Ino's no issue. I know exactly how to handle her," Karin said, striding toward the balcony off the great room, Tayuya trailing just behind. They paused, surveying the village below, the Hyuga warehouses dominating the view from the bustling port.
"They're training Shikamaru to be the next Jonin commander," Tayuya remarked, her gaze steady. "He won't be swayed by any of your schemes. He'll see right through them."
"Shikamaru's a man," Karin replied, a sly smile playing on her lips. "And like any other, his loyalty is his weakness. He'll put family and friends above all. We only need to show him that I'm the safest choice to protect them."
"There's no we in this." Tayuya's voice hardened, her expression as fierce as a small dragon as she met Karin's eyes. "I'll protect this household, but beyond these walls, whatever schemes you weave, you're on your own. And don't involve me, or I'll tear through every last one of your pawns and break all your toys."
Karin raised an eyebrow at the intensity in Tayuya's gaze, resting a hand over Tayuya's where it gripped the railing. "I trust you with all our children; what more could you want? You're the first wife, and I'll always honor that."
Tayuya's expression darkened, and she withdrew her hand from Karin's. "I see too much of Orochimaru in you these days," she said, voice laced with a warning. "We're not those people anymore, Karin. Let's not forget that."
Karin's smile faltered, a shadow of irritation crossing her face before she masked it with calm indifference. She watched as Tayuya turned her gaze to the bustling village below, leaving a quiet tension hanging between them, both knowing full well the line they were toeing but refusing to back down.
…
Outside, the fresh air hit the men, a sharp contrast to the warm, bustling atmosphere of the kitchen. The quiet intensity of the moment set in, as if the world beyond had shifted in anticipation. Naruto eagerly ran ahead, fueled by the energy of the day ahead. As they approached the training grounds, the familiar stretch of trees and open fields framed the space, but this time, the air thrummed with a more serious energy.
Once at the grounds, Kakashi gestured to Naruto. "Show us what you've learned. Let's see it in action."
Naruto squared his stance, adrenaline surging as he prepared to unleash the skills he'd honed in his time away. The training ground, once a familiar place of camaraderie, now became an arena where strength and skill would be tested.
"Remember, Naruto," Kakashi advised, his voice calm but firm, "it's not just about brute force."
Sasuke's smirk grew, his gaze steely with challenge. "Show us if you've got more than just one jutsu, Naruto."
With a fierce yell, Naruto launched himself forward, his movements sharp and explosive. In an instant, his focus narrowed, the world around him vanishing as he honed in on his opponents. Chakra flared and fists flew, jutsu and technique colliding in a rapid exchange of blows. The air crackled with energy as each attack and counterattack tested the limits of their strength, driving them harder with every clash. They fought with everything they had, each clash more intense than the last as if proving to themselves—and each other—that they could face whatever came next.
….
Hinata crouched low in the underbrush, her form cloaked in shadows, the tight black fabric of her shirt and leggings blending with the forest floor. She watched intently as Naruto trained just beyond the clearing, his every movement a dance of strength and power. The sunlight filtered through the training grounds, illuminating him like a warrior chosen by fate, and her heart raced with a mixture of pride and longing.
Every instinct within her urged to rush out, to stand by his side, but she tempered that urge with understanding. This is merely training, she reminded herself, but it was a battle against the deep yearning that thrummed through her veins. She was no longer the shy, hesitant girl of her past; she was the Iron Fist, leader of the Hyuga clan, and she refused to be merely a spectator in Naruto's life.
Yet as she watched him, the admiration she had once kept hidden bubbled to the surface, now transformed into something bolder, more assertive. She wanted to possess him, to claim him as her own, to show him the depths of her desire. It was not just love she felt; it was a fierce passion that ignited a fire within her, compelling her to break free from the confines of her past. I will not hide my feelings any longer, she thought even as images of his wives flashed in her mind.
Hinata had grown into a woman who knew her worth, a leader capable of maneuvering the political landscape of the village with skill and cunning. Naruto was at the center of it all—a beacon of hope and strength. The bond they shared was deeper than mere affection; it was a connection forged through trials and triumphs, an irreplaceable part of her identity. Even as he surrounded himself with other wives, Hinata was persistent in her belief that her love for him would remain paramount, a flame that would never be extinguished...
The thought brought a rush of warmth, a confidence that thrummed beneath her skin. As the sunlight glinted off her focused gaze, she decided to wait—not out of fear, but to strategically position herself as an integral force in Naruto's life. The day would come when she would reveal the depths of her love and the strength of her heart, and when that moment arrived, she would not hold back.
"I figured I would find you here," came a familiar voice, as Ino emerged fluidly from the shadows, her presence playful as she walked over. But even with Ino's most prized jutsu, Hinata remained unmoving.
"One of these days, that trick will get you killed," Hinata replied, a hint of amusement lacing her tone. She knew there was a weakness to Ino's jutsu that even her friend might not fully comprehend—a vulnerability lurking beneath the surface, waiting to be exploited.
Ino shrugged, her demeanor nonchalant as she stepped up beside Hinata, her pale blue eyes full of mischief. "No need for that," she said, her voice low, as she settled into the stance of a watchful sentinel. Together, they observed as Naruto continued his battle with his teammates, the air around him crackling with intensity. The clash of his chakra with theirs resonated through the clearing, igniting a flicker of excitement in Ino's gaze.
The training session could easily be mistaken for a battle, the way Naruto moved, pushing his limits. Sasuke showing signs of strain trying to keep up. Ino couldn't help but feel a rush of admiration for him, even as her competitive spirit bubbled beneath the surface. "He's pushing himself today, huh? I wonder if he's trying to impress someone." Her teasing lilt carried a double meaning, but the air between them remained serious.
Hinata's focus didn't change as she replied, "He always does. It's part of who he is." Her voice was steady, reflecting the respect she held for Naruto. Yet beneath that admiration lay a deeper emotion—a mix of longing and some would say lust to be the one he chose above all others.
Ino tilted her head, a knowing smile playing on her lips. "You're going to hide here in the bushes?" she teased.
Hinata turned her head slightly, locking eyes with Ino, who could sense the tension thrumming between them. "It's not hiding," she replied firmly. "I'm the leader of my clan. I have to be smart about my actions."
Ino nodded, her teasing fading as she recognized the look in Hinata's tone. "I get it. But don't forget to fight for what you want, too," she urged, her voice softening. "We both need to remember that."
Hinata felt a surge of appreciation for her sometimes friend's words. "I know." Her gaze returned to Naruto, her heart pounding with a mix of emotions.
As the training session continued, Hinata's mind raced with plans and possibilities.
"Why are you here?" Hinata asked, her posture firm as she stood to face Ino, her Byakugan activated, allowing her to follow Naruto's every movement.
Ino stepped back deeper into the shadows, her expression shifting to one of seriousness. "I received a message from the dragon lady. She thinks it would be best if you and some of the others know about what's happening."
Hinata deactivated her Byakugan, turning to confront Ino fully. "What does Tayuya want now?" she inquired, skepticism lacing her voice. It was rare for Tayuya to reach out to anyone outside her clan. "I told her before and I will tell her again, leave my sister alone," Hinata's voice was sharp and full of warnings.
"No, no that was just a game I told you that, this is about the reason Naruto came back," Ino said, lowering her voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "The Akatsuki are on the move again. They've already captured five of the tailed beasts, killing all their hosts but one. Somehow, Yugito Nii survived and is coming here with Sakura."
Hinata's expression darkened, her mind racing to process the information. "And how do you know all this?" she pressed, never one to take Ino's words at face value.
Ino shifted uncomfortably, aware of the weight of her next words. "I had one of my people on Turtle Island where Naruto was training. She saw it with her own eyes." Reluctantly, she revealed her source, knowing the importance of the message.
"Word is he came back because he wanted to be here for the birth of his sons," Hinata stated, her tone betraying more than she intended.
Ino's lips pursed as she processed the revelation. Damn lip-reading Hyuga; their spy network was almost as good as hers, at least within the village. She had to tread carefully. "So he's torn between duty and family," Ino mused, her voice low. "It's a perilous balance, one that could tip at any moment if the village is in danger," Hinata noted her words were more of a warning than a statement of fact, but a warning to who.
Hinata's eyes narrowed. "If the Akatsuki are truly on the move, he won't be able to stay in the village for long. We have to prepare for what's coming. We cannot let our guard down, not now."
Ino nodded, sensing the seriousness of the situation settling over them. "We need to rally the clans and secure our alliances beyond the village walls. If they're targeting the tailed beasts, they'll come for us soon."
"Then we do what we must," Hinata replied, her resolve solidifying. "I won't let them take anyone from us."
"And the Hokage?" Hinata asked, her gaze steady.
Ino's expression darkened slightly. "She's already sent messages to all the Five Great Nations, hoping to form an alliance like her grandfather did before her," she replied, her voice tinged with both worry and concern. "But the villages have been weakened after losing their tailed beasts, and old rivalries die hard. They won't readily agree to work together."
Hinata scoffed, crossing her arms. "These are not the days of warring clans, and they are no longer in any shape to deny their need for an alliance."
Ino glanced away, reluctant but hopeful. "You'd think that... but three have already agreed. Now we're just waiting on the others. There's a darkness coming, Hinata; I think they can all feel it too."
"The Byakugan can see in the dark," Hinata replied with a small, dry smile. Her gaze flicked over her shoulder, where Naruto unleashed a jutsu with devastating power, blasting a crater the size of a house into the ground. Sasuke leaped into action, summoning his hawk to avoid the impact, his expression hardened and focused as a giant skeleton formed around him.
For a moment, both women watched in silence as Naruto and Sasuke clashed in a whirl of raw energy, their power radiating across the training grounds. Hinata's eyes narrowed, and she turned back to Ino, her expression fierce and unyielding.
"If we're to face this darkness, we'll need more than alliances. We'll need loyalty—true loyalty. Not just to the village, but to each other," Hinata's voice was low and commanding, carrying a finality that left no room for argument. "No more games, Ino. Do you hear me? No more games."
Ino held her gaze, something shifting in her expression as the weight of Hinata's words settled. Her usual playful demeanor faded, replaced by a rare seriousness. "I understand," she replied firmly. "I'll tell the others. We'll be ready when the time comes."
…
Killer B walked down the streets of Kumogakure, singing a song to himself as he headed to his favorite sushi place for lunch. It had been weeks of tense patrols, but after finding no sign of the Akatsuki, A had ordered his shinobi to resume their usual missions. The business of the village could not come to a halt.
The vibrant market bustled with life, shopkeepers calling out to passersby, hawking their wares. The air was rich with the scent of grilled fish and spices, mingling with the laughter of children playing nearby. B's heart lifted at the familiar sights, his mood buoyed by the warmth of the sun on his face.
As he rounded a corner, he spotted a group of young shinobi practicing their jutsu. They were attempting to recreate a basic lightning technique, their expressions a mix of concentration and determination. B paused to watch, a smile creeping across his face. "Hey, you all! Just like I taught ya—focus that chakra!" he encouraged, his voice booming with enthusiasm. The young ninjas turned, their faces lighting up at his words.
"Yeah, Killer B!" one of them shouted back, his voice cracking with excitement. "We're trying our best!"
B chuckled, feeling a sense of pride wash over him. It was moments like these that reminded him of the village's resilience, the next generation eager to learn and grow. He waved to them, continuing his journey.
As he approached the sushi shop, the owner, an elderly man with a warm smile, stepped outside, wiping his hands on his apron. "Killer B! You're just in time! I've got a fresh catch today—your favorite!"
B grinned widely. "You know me too well, old man! Give me the usual!"
Inside, the shop was cozy, the walls adorned with pictures of satisfied customers. B settled at the bar, watching as the owner expertly prepared his meal. The sound of knives slicing through fish was a comforting rhythm, and the vibrant colors of the sushi filled the air with a tantalizing aroma.
As he waited, B glanced around the shop, taking in the simple joys of life in the village. A group of friends sat at a nearby table, sharing laughter and stories, while a couple at the corner whispered sweet nothings to each other.
"Here you go, my friend!" The owner placed a beautifully arranged plate of sushi in front of him, each piece a work of art.
"Looks amazing!" B exclaimed, picking up his chopsticks with excitement. He took a bite, savoring the flavors that danced on his palate. "Mmm! Just like I remember!"
After a few bites, his mind drifted back to his training sessions with Naruto. The young shinobi had grown immensely, his determination shining bright, but B knew that beneath the surface, there was still an undercurrent of anxiety about the impending threat of the Akatsuki. It weighed heavily on the village, even in moments like this.
As he finished his meal, he spotted a familiar face outside—the Raikage's newest aide, her expression serious as she scanned the crowd. B's heart sank slightly. He knew that her presence likely meant that the calm wouldn't last much longer.
With a final sip of his tea, B set down his cup, his playful demeanor shifting to one of quiet resolve. "Time to get back to work," he muttered to himself, leaving money on the counter.
He stepped back onto the street, feeling a cold wind blow down from the mountain peaks, B looked around. The skies over Kumogakure had darkened as if heralding a storm, though no thunder rumbled. Instead, an eerie silence settled, broken only by a strange figure descending from above—a lone man cloaked in the crimson and black of the Akatsuki, his eyes glowing with the power of the Rinnegan. But he was not alone.
From the edges of the village, five more figures emerged, each one eerily similar, and each with that same, impossible gaze. The Raikage, those that stood on the main terrace overlooking the village, recognized them at once. These were the Six Paths of Pain, harbingers of destruction.
Below, the shinobi and villagers alike felt the ground shudder as Pain began his assault.
The figure at the front—the Deva Path—lifted his hand, the faintest of glows illuminating his fingers. Standing on the overlook next to his office, the Raikage's eyes narrowed as he braced, sensing something far worse than the average jutsu coming. Then, without warning, a crushing force exploded outward.
Shinra Tensei.
A wave of destruction surged across Kumogakure, roofs ripped from homes, towers cracked and splintered, and walls collapsed as if they were made of paper. Buildings crumbled under the pressure, and the screams of civilians and shinobi alike rose into the air. The Raikage's heart pounded with fury as he witnessed the devastation, his village once proud and undefeated lay in ruins but he was not one to hesitate. With a flash, he leaped forward, his body wrapped in the blinding blue of his lightning cloak, a storm of power and rage in human form.
"Stop!" he roared, charging straight at the Deva Path. But before he could close the distance, two other figures intercepted him.
The first to engage was the Asura Path, its strange, mechanical arms extending outward like claws. From within its metallic frame, it unleashed a barrage of missiles. Explosions erupted around the Raikage, tearing into the ground and sending up plumes of smoke. But he evaded each blast, weaving through the attack with the agility of lightning itself, his eyes fixed on the figure orchestrating the chaos.
But just as he closed the gap, another figure—a woman—stepped forward, and with a sudden flash of hands, summoned forth a massive creature. The Raikage barely had time to react before a giant, many-headed dog crashed into his path, each snarling maw snapping in unison.
"The Animal Path…" he murmured recognition dawning as he sidestepped the creature's snapping jaws. The beast continued to multiply, each severed head regenerating into two more, creating a monstrous wall of flesh and teeth.
Shinobi across the village battled Pain's creatures, struggling to keep the beasts from wreaking further havoc. Yet the summons were unyielding. A massive bird swooped down from the sky, scattering defenders with the sweep of its talons, while a monstrous rhino charged through the streets, leveling buildings in its wake. Nothing was able to stay standing as the Animal Path tore the remains of the village to pieces.
The Raikage snarled, calling upon his chakra to enhance his strength. He leaped into the air, fists raised, and brought them down onto the head of the rhino with a resounding crash. The creature crumbled beneath the force of his blow, yet more summons filled the void.
Meanwhile, the other Paths moved with ruthless efficiency. The Human Path stalked through the village, picking off any shinobi who stood in its way. With a touch to their heads, it pulled their souls free, leaving only empty shells behind. Those unfortunate enough to face it were left lifeless, their chakra snuffed out with terrifying ease.
The Naraka Path lingered behind the others, waiting in the shadows. Whenever one of the Paths was injured, it summoned the looming King of Hell, a monstrous figure with an unearthly glow. Any fallen or damaged Path would be consumed by the creature, only to emerge unharmed, their Rinnegan glowing once again with unstoppable fury.
The Raikage battled relentlessly, pushing back the Animal Path's beasts, and dodging the deadly projectiles of the Asura Path. Lightning crackled around him as he struck with all his strength, determined to protect his village. But he could feel the strain; these foes were unlike any he had ever faced.
Finally, the Raikage caught sight of the Deva Path again, still standing amidst the ruin, as if watching and waiting. Determined to end this, the Raikage charged, lightning flashing around him as he moved with blinding speed. The Deva Path's expression didn't shift as it raised its hand once more.
"Shinra Tensei!"
This time, the blast struck the Raikage head-on, a gravitational force so powerful that it lifted him from the ground and hurled him backward with bone-crushing force. He crashed into the outer wall of the village, the impact sending cracks through the walls. For a moment, he lay still, struggling to rise.
"Raikage-sama!" shouted a nearby shinobi, but the Raikage waved them back, his eyes fixed on his enemies.
A new figure suddenly appeared beside the Raikage, cloaked in the red chakra of a beast. Killer B had arrived, his body cloaked in the menacing, fiery chakra of the Eight-Tails. He cracked his knuckles, grinning as he surveyed the battlefield.
"Time to show these punks the real wrath of Kumogakure!" Killer B's voice was filled with bravado as he summoned the power of the Eight-Tails, transforming into the beast's partial form.
The Deva Path observed the new arrival without emotion. "It seems the Eight-Tails has come to me willingly," he stated, his voice as cold and unfeeling as the grave.
But Killer B was undeterred, launching himself at the Deva Path, his fists glowing with chakra. A massive tentacle struck out, crashing into the Asura Path and shattering it, but the figure quickly reformed, thanks to the Naraka Path's dark magic.
The Raikage used the distraction to close in on the Deva Path, his body once more encased in lightning as he launched a devastating punch. But as he neared his target, he felt an overwhelming gravitational force seize him. The Deva Path's hand was raised again, and he struggled against the unseen force.
"Enough," the Deva Path intoned. "You cannot stop me."
The Raikage's vision blurred, but with a roar, he broke free of the gravitational pull. He struck with all his might, his fist finally connecting with the Deva Path's face, forcing the figure to fly high into the air only to return unhurt.
Beside him, Killer B continued to unleash the Eight-Tails' chakra, smashing through summons and scattering Pain's other Paths. Yet even as the battle turned in their favor, the Raikage knew that victory was far from certain.
Pain's Paths began to regroup, and for a moment, there was a dreadful silence. Then, with a flick of his wrist, the Deva Path summoned a black sphere into the sky. The ground trembled as stones and debris began to lift, drawn toward the sphere's gravitational pull.
Chibaku Tensei.
The Raikage and Killer B fought to stay grounded, but the pull was overwhelming. Chunks of the village were torn from the earth, spiraling upward to form a massive, dark sphere in the sky. Buildings, trees, and even entire streets were lifted, forming a chaotic, floating mass above them.
With one last surge of strength, Killer B thrust himself forward, unleashing the Eight-Tails' power in a final assault. His chakra roared as he clashed with the Deva Path, the air around them exploding with energy.
But the pull of the black sphere only grew stronger, consuming everything in its path.
When the dust settled, Kumogakure lay in absolute ruin. The once-mighty village, with its towering peaks and impenetrable walls, had been reduced to scorched rubble and broken stone. Bodies of proud shinobi littered the streets, and the scent of smoke and destruction choked the air.
Killer B, battered and bloodied, clutched his last sword tightly, defiant even as his body gave way under the weight of Pain's power. He had fought with every ounce of his strength, severing the heads of two paths in a flurry of blades, his fluid, fierce movements cutting through Pain's assault like lightning. But even the jinchūriki of the Eight-Tails could not match the endless strength of the Rinnegan.
In a final, desperate attempt, B launched himself toward Pain, his swords gleaming under the storm-darkened sky. Yet with a cold command, the Deva Path raised its hand, summoning a gravitational force that tore the swords from B's grasp and pulled him to his knees, pinning him under unyielding pressure. Helpless, B could only watch as Pain's hand reached out, his body frozen in place as one black rod after another pierced through him, draining every last ounce of chakra from his exhausted form.
Above, the Raikage was sealed within a Chibaku Tensei—an immense sphere of earth and stone levitated high above the village, its dense gravity imprisoning him in a cage of rock. His cries of rage echoed in the distance, but his power, too, was now contained. There would be no escape.
As Pain's paths retreated, their mission complete, they dragged the unconscious form of Killer B with them, the jinchūriki's capture now certain. Only a few fortunate souls remained to witness their departure, their bodies crushed and broken from the battle's relentless fury. Kumogakure, once a mighty fortress in the mountains, lay shattered—a village no longer, now reduced to the ashes of a dream.
The streets that had echoed with laughter were now eerily silent, filled only with the haunting memories of what had been. Smoke billowed from the ruins, casting a pall over the land as the last remnants of hope flickered out. The vibrant market, once alive with the hustle and bustle of daily life, was a graveyard of memories, leaving behind only the whispers of dreams unrealized.
At that moment, the laughter of children was replaced by the ghostly echoes of despair. The resilient spirit of Kumogakure, once embodied in its shinobi, now lay in tatters, the weight of loss heavy in the air. The victory of the Akatsuki hung like a dark cloud, casting a long shadow over the village, as the last of its defenders faded into darkness.
Late that night, as the moon cast its pale light over the ruins of Kumogakure, the ground trembled once more. The Chibaku Tensei—an immense sphere of earth and stone—came crashing down, breaking apart to reveal the Raikage, his near-lifeless body sprawled amidst the debris. He lay unmoving, save for the slow rise and fall of his chest, a shadow of the mighty leader he once was, trapped within the remnants of his shattered village.
…
Damn, this was hard to write ;-)