Disclaimer: I do not own any of the content following this statement. Masashi Kishimoto owns all titles, names, and plots.
The Water Did Calm
The rain was relentless, a constant downpour that soaked through clothing ran in rivulets off tents, and turned the ground beneath their feet into a treacherous mud pit. Inside the largest tent at the heart of the rebel camp, the air was thick with the scent of wet canvas and damp earth. Maps and scrolls were spread across a weathered wooden table, pinned down by makeshift weights to keep them from curling in the humid air.
Mei Terumī stood at the head of the table, her auburn hair tied back, though a few damp strands clung stubbornly to her face. Her green eyes scanned the faces of her commanders, each bearing the weary determination of warriors who had fought too long and lost too much to ever give up.
"We've confirmed Isobu's movements," she began, her voice steady and clear despite the pounding rain outside. "The Three-Tails is roaming in the southern swamps, close enough to our position to make a move."
A tall, broad-shouldered man leaned forward, his hands gripping the table's edge. "It's a suicide mission to face a tailed beast head-on. Even with our numbers."
"I'm not blind to the risks," Mei replied, her gaze sharp as a kunai. "But we don't have the luxury of waiting. If the Akatsuki capture Isobu, the entire Land of Water is lost. We need to act now."
Another rebel, a younger woman with a scar cutting across her cheek, nodded. "We've prepared the sealing container as you ordered. It's temporary—three, maybe four days at most before the seal weakens. But it's stable enough to hold Isobu until we can decide what to do next."
"That's not good enough," one of the older commanders muttered, shaking his head. "Sealing a tailed beast in an object rather than a person... It's unnatural. Dangerous. We're only delaying the inevitable."
Mei's jaw tightened. "I'm not putting Isobu into one of our people. I won't turn someone into a weapon against their will, even if it's our best chance. We're not the Blood Mist anymore." Her voice carried a weight that silenced the murmurs around the table.
The room fell quiet, save for the rain drumming against the tent. Finally, Ao stepped forward, his eye patch catching the dim light. "Then we need to be damn sure the seal holds, Mei. If it fails before we can secure Isobu, we're finished."
Mei nodded, her fingers tracing a circle on the map where the southern swamps were marked. "We'll use the terrain to our advantage. Isobu's movements are slow and deliberate. We'll draw it into the shallow basin here, where the mud and water will limit its speed. The sealing team will surround it, and the others will keep it distracted. Precision is key. We can't afford mistakes."
"What about the casualties?" another commander asked grimly. "Even with a plan, people will die."
Mei's gaze hardened, but there was a flicker of sadness in her eyes. "People are already dying. Every day we delay, we lose more to the Akatsuki's grip and Yagura's tyranny. I won't ask anyone to do this who isn't willing, but we have to fight for something greater than ourselves. Our world is dying around us and we can not just stand still and watch, not anymore."
The commanders exchanged glances, their faces etched with resolve. Slowly, one by one, they nodded.
Ao broke the silence, his voice firm. "I'll lead the forward team. We'll bait Isobu and give the sealing squad time to work."
"I'll join the sealing team," the scarred woman added. "I've worked on the containment jutsu. If anything goes wrong, I'll be there to fix it."
Mei placed her hands on the table, leaning forward as she surveyed her ragged but determined team. "Good. Gather your squads and be ready to move by nightfall. If we fail here, there won't be a second chance."
Her words hung in the air as the commanders dispersed, their footsteps squelching through the mud as they left the tent. Mei stayed behind, her gaze lingering on the map. The rain continued its ceaseless drumming, a somber backdrop to the grim reality they faced.
"Help is coming we need to hold, just a little longer," she whispered to herself. "We'll bring back the light. Even if it kills us."
….
The rebels moved under the cover of darkness, their boots sinking into the swampy terrain as the rain eased into a light drizzle. The air carried a weight that settled deep in the chest, making every breath feel heavier. Mei Terumī led the first team, her sharp eyes scanning the dimly lit swamp for any sign of movement.
Hunting at night wasn't their choice but a necessity. During the day, Isobu buried itself deep in the earth, using the terrain to shield its massive form. It was only under the cover of night that the beast ventured to the surface, its movements slow and deliberate as it searched for a new place to hide.
"This is our only chance," Mei whispered to her team, her voice barely audible over the faint patter of rain on the leaves above. "If we don't strike now, it will disappear again—and next time, it might not come back up for weeks."
The rebels nodded, their expressions grim but resolute. They knew the risks, the dangers of confronting such a creature in the dead of night, but they also knew it was their best—and perhaps only—opportunity.
Mei gestured for the team to spread out, their movements cautious as they advanced through the swamp. The ground squelched underfoot, and the dim light from their chakra lamps cast eerie shadows on the twisted trees around them.
"Remember the plan," Mei said, her voice low but commanding. "We corral Isobu into the basin and hold it there. Team Two provides ranged support, and Team Three prepares the seal. Do not engage recklessly. Stay sharp."
The rebels nodded, their faces set with determination. Each team moved into position, their steps careful and deliberate to avoid alerting the beast. The swamp was eerily quiet, the usual chorus of insects and frogs silenced by the presence of something far more menacing.
As the first ripples spread across the murky water, Mei raised a hand, signaling her team to halt. A massive shadow loomed beneath the surface, its form distorted but unmistakable.
"Here it comes," Mei murmured, her hands already moving into a series of rapid seals.
Isobu emerged with a roar, its three spiked tails lashing the air and sending waves crashing in all directions. Its massive, armored body gleamed in the pale moonlight, and its single red eye glowed with primal fury. The beast opened its maw, unleashing a torrent of water that surged toward Mei's team like a tidal wave.
"Scatter!" Mei commanded, her team leaping to higher ground as the water crashed into the trees, uprooting them with ease. She countered with a swift series of hand signs, her Lava Release spewing molten rock that hardened into barriers to redirect the flood.
"Team Two, now!" Ao's voice rang out from the distance as his team launched a volley of kunai infused with explosive tags. The blasts erupted around Isobu, momentarily disorienting the beast. It roared again, its tails whipping through the air and slamming into the ground, creating shockwaves that rippled through the swamp.
"Keep moving! Don't let it focus on any one of you!" Mei shouted, her hands glowing as she prepared another jutsu. Streams of water coiled around her like serpents before shooting toward Isobu, wrapping around its limbs to slow its movements.
Team Three, positioned on the edge of the basin, began their sealing preparations. The scarred woman leading the group called out instructions, her voice steady despite the chaos. "Hold it there! We need two more minutes!"
Isobu thrashed against the water bindings, its tails smashing into the barriers Mei had created. It inhaled deeply, and Mei's eyes widened. "Brace yourselves!" she yelled as the beast unleashed a devastating Water Release: Coral Palm. Spikes of coral shot from the ground, growing rapidly and threatening to entrap anything in their path.
Mei leapt into the air, narrowly avoiding the coral. "Not today," she muttered, weaving another set of hand signs. Lava spewed from her, melting the coral and creating a path for her team to advance.
Ao and his team capitalized on the opening, charging in with precision strikes aimed at Isobu's legs. Though their weapons barely scratched its thick armor, they succeeded in drawing its attention. The beast turned toward them, its eye narrowing as it prepared another attack.
"Fall back!" Ao barked, his team retreating just as Mei launched a massive wave of lava that slammed into Isobu's side, forcing it to stagger.
The sealing team was almost ready. The leader of Team Three raised her hands, a glowing seal forming in the air above her. "Get it into position!" she shouted.
"Push it back!" Mei commanded, her team combining their efforts with Ao's to drive Isobu toward the center of the basin. Explosions, water jutsu, and molten rock filled the air, the rebels coordinating their attacks with practiced precision.
Isobu roared, its tails lashing out in a final, desperate attempt to break free. One tail smashed into the ground near Mei, sending her flying into a tree. She groaned but quickly got back to her feet, she was unshaken but would never leave her people, she rushed back to the battle hands glowing with power.
The sealing team leader raised her voice above the chaos, her hands glowing as the intricate seal reached its final stage. "It's time!" she called out, her voice steady despite the strain. The swamp lit up with the brilliance of the jutsu, casting eerie shadows across the waterlogged terrain.
Isobu roared, the sound reverberating through the swamp like an earthquake. The massive beast thrashed against the bindings, waves crashing outward from its colossal body. Chakra pulsed in the air, thick and suffocating, as the rebels pushed their jutsu to the limit.
"Hold it steady!" Mei commanded, her voice cutting through the din. She stood at the forefront, her hands weaving a stream of water and lava to keep Isobu corralled. The rebels obeyed, their combined chakra creating a barrier that glowed with a flash of fiery brilliance.
Finally, with a final, ear-splitting roar, Isobu's form began to dissolve into the glowing seal. The light grew blinding, and the air became still as the great beast was drawn into the specially prepared container. A soft hum of power resonated as the sealing was completed, leaving behind an unnatural quiet.
The rebels stood frozen for a moment, staring at the container that now housed the fearsome Three-Tails. Their labored breaths were the only sound in the swamp.
Mei stepped forward, her sharp eyes fixed on the sealed container. Her voice was quiet but firm, carrying a weight of urgency. "We did it," she said, glancing at her team. "But this is just the beginning. This much chakra in one place won't go unnoticed for long. Pack up—quickly. We leave within the hour."
The rebels exchanged weary glances, but none protested. They had survived a fight with a tailed beast and won, but the thought of the Akatsuki bearing down on them was enough to spur them into action.
"Move the container to the supply unit!" Mei barked, turning to one of her lieutenants. "Have the scouts clear a route west—no delays."
As the camp erupted into activity, Mei knelt by the sealing team, her voice softer. "You did well," she said, acknowledging their monumental effort. "But there's no rest yet. We'll need you to ensure the seal holds during transport."
The team leader nodded, her exhaustion evident. "Understood," she murmured.
Mei stood and surveyed the camp as tents came down and supplies were packed. Her rebels moved with practiced efficiency, the adrenaline of their victory tempered by the urgency of their situation.
She turned to Ao, who had been at her side throughout the battle. "We can't stay here. If the Akatsuki senses this much chakra, they'll be here before we even catch our breath."
Ao nodded grimly. "And they won't come alone. We'll need to relocate far from here to even have a chance to regroup."
Mei's expression hardened, her smile shining through to her people despite her exhaustion. "We'll find a new base, far enough in the swamps that even the Akatsuki will hesitate to pursue. For now, we focus on getting Isobu to safety and deciding what to do next."
She had plans for Isobu, plans she had been crafting over the past year of the rebellion. Now, with the Leaf Village ready to join forces, it was time to put them into action. Mei's gaze lingered on the sealed container, knowing this was a turning point in the struggle. The pieces were falling into place, and she was prepared to see them through.
…..
The great gates of Konohagakure stood like a sentinel in the early morning light, massive and unyielding. The air was thick with the weight of anticipation as the gathered shinobi prepared for battle. Hundreds stood in perfect formation, their presence a testament to the power and unity of the three bonded clans, Yamanaka, Akimichi, and Nara. After days of careful planning, they were now united in a singular purpose, to avenge their fallen comrades and end the chaos the Akatsuki had wrought.
At the forefront of the assembly paced Tsunade, the Hokage, her every movement exuding the commanding presence of a woman who had led nations to victory and yet knew the pain of war. Her eyes were sharp, assessing the situation, calculating the risks. Behind her, the leaders of the three clans stood: Ino, Choji, and Shikamaru, their faces a mirror of the rage they shared, each one struggling with the crushing weight of the decision at hand.
"We should wait for confirmation," Tsunade's voice rang out as she addressed the three clan heads. Her gaze shifted between them, and the words hung in the air like a threat—silent, but potent.
Ino was the first to speak, her voice sharp with frustration and unspoken grief. "No," she snapped, her fists clenched at her sides. "We will not wait any longer. The Akatsuki are vulnerable NOW! The Yamanaka have lost too many. My family has lost too many. We need to strike hard and fast, while we have the advantage. Waiting for confirmation from the rebels is an excuse to do nothing. We can't afford that."
Tsunade's gaze remained cool, but there was a flash of something behind her eyes—something that understood, she had seen the same pain reflected in the faces of countless warriors before. "Ino, I understand your grief, but this isn't just about us. This is about the whole village and our survival. A decision made in haste could cost us more than just lives. It could cost us everything."
Choji, his large frame looming beside Ino, spoke with a heavy sigh. His voice, usually calm, was thick with emotion. "The Akimichi are ready, Tsunade. We've trained for this moment. We're not asking for more time, this is the time to act. If we wait much longer, the Akatsuki will regroup. We'll lose our window of opportunity." His broad hands clenched into fists, his anger barely restrained beneath the surface. "This is it. Now is the time."
Shikamaru remained silent for a moment. His sharp eyes scanned the ranks of their warriors, feeling the tension in the air. He glanced over at Tsunade, his brow furrowed. "Tsunade," he began, his voice cool but strained, "We've had enough waiting. Our forces are ready, and our window for striking is closing. We need to move now. We'll contact the rebels once we're in Tea Country. We will learn of their plan to still the waters then but we can't afford to be the ones sitting on our hands. You know this."
Tsunade looked over each of them, her gaze calculating, weighing their words. She saw the same burning determination in their eyes that had carried them through years of battle. But she also saw something else, a desperate, burning desire for vengeance that threatened to cloud their judgment. And she couldn't allow that.
"We don't move until the rebels confirm," Tsunade said firmly, her voice unwavering. "I won't send you into the heart of battle without knowing we're on the same page. We have to be certain. If we act too soon, too recklessly, we'll be walking into a trap."
Ino's eyes narrowed, her fists clenched harder, her sharp features a mask of barely controlled fury. "And what if the rebels never confirm?" she demanded. "What if we wait for them, and they don't have the strength to reach us in time? What happens then?"
"If they can't reach us," Tsunade said coolly, her voice cutting through the tense air, "then we'll act on our own terms. But until then, we wait. I won't send anyone to their deaths because we moved too quickly. If we do this, we do it right."
Choji crossed his arms, the muscles in his jaw tightening. The heavy silence between them seemed to amplify the weight of grief and anger that lingered in the air. His eyes shifted to Ino, her gaze sharp and fierce, burning with the intensity of someone who had lost more than she could bear. For a moment, his own expression softened, but it quickly hardened again as he turned back to Tsunade.
Shikamaru's normally composed face carried a rare tension, his usual air of indifference replaced with something sharper, more resolute. "We're done wasting time arguing. The village charter is clear. You can't stop us, and you know it. We move now."
Tsunade's gaze locked onto his, unflinching. "Damn Nara, of all people, I'd expect you to have read the documents."
The silence that followed was deafening, laden with the unspoken truths that hung between them. Each of them understood the choice before them, the lives that would be shaped or lost by what came next.
Ino finally stepped forward, her voice strong and emotionless, but filled with fiery conviction. "When we strike, I swear to you, Hokage, there won't be anything left of the Akatsuki."
Naruto stood slightly apart from the gathering forces. On one arm, Karin clung tightly, her fingers brushing against his arm, her sharp red eyes scanning the crowd with a mix of tension and focus, plans within plans forming in her sharp mind. On his other side, Tayuya leaned against him casually, though her sharp tone betrayed her own unease. Nearby, Temari paced back and forth, her steps agitated and deliberate, her fan clinking softly against her back.
"Do you think you can defeat them?" Karin asked, tilting her head up to meet Naruto's gaze. Her voice was steady, but there was a flicker of doubt hidden in the depths of her question.
"What the fuck, of course he can," Tayuya snapped, not bothering to hide her irritation. Her grip on Naruto's arm tightened as if to silence Karin's concern. "He's the strongest goddamn shinobi alive. Don't start doubting him now."
Karin gave Tayuya a sidelong glare but said nothing, her worry only deepening.
Temari suddenly stopped pacing, planting her feet firmly as she turned to face the three of them. Her teal eyes blazed with unsaid words. "I'm going with you."
Naruto raised an eyebrow, but Temari pressed on before he could speak. "I'm trained for battle. From the moment I could hold a blade, I've fought for my people. The sands of my home run red with the blood of our enemies. I will not let my husband face this fight alone."
Tayuya scoffed, jabbing a thumb toward the gathered shinobi behind them. "He won't be alone, princess. Look at them—they're ready to tear those Akatsuki fuckers apart."
Temari didn't flinch. Her lips curved into a grim smile, her tone cutting through Tayuya's bravado like steel. "They'll fall by the dozens, and you know it. You know what I mean."
Naruto's face remained unreadable as the two women exchanged words, but his silence weighed heavier with each passing moment.
Temari's voice softened, though her resolve stayed firm. "I only wish Gaara could join us. But if my brother can't be here, then I'll carry the sands of Suna in his stead. This isn't just about strength or numbers. It's about standing with you, Naruto, no matter the cost."
Naruto finally spoke, his voice low but commanding. "We don't have time to argue. If you're coming, Temari, stay sharp and follow my lead. This isn't just another battle, it's a reckoning."
Karin and Tayuya shared a tense glance, unspoken thoughts flashing between them. Both women had survived harrowing fights in the past—battles against the horrors spawned from their own experiments or desperate men clawing for one more day of life. But a confrontation like this was unprecedented, rivaled only by the chaos of the last great war. This would be many against few, yet those few were monsters forged by their own ambition.
Karin muttered to herself, her mind racing as she mentally tallied the cost of what lay ahead. "We need more people," she said quietly.
…
The campfire flickered in the deep black of the night, its light casting long, dancing shadows across the barren terrain. The stars stretched endlessly above, a vast ocean of light punctuated by the occasional streak of a falling star. Naruto, leaning back against a worn log, stared into the flames, his pet lizard curled beside him, its glossy scales gleaming faintly in the firelight. Across from him sat Orochimaru, his serpentine eyes reflecting the fire as he absently tossed a small branch into the flames.
For a moment, the silence stretched between them, broken only by the crackling fire and the distant howls of unseen creatures.
"Naruto," Orochimaru began, his voice soft but deliberate, "have you ever wondered what it truly means to live? To be a shinobi?"
Naruto, his gaze still fixed on the flames, shrugged. "I've always thought it was about protecting the people you care about. Doing what's right. That's what I was taught."
Orochimaru chuckled, a low, almost mournful sound. "Ah, the innocence of youth. That's where we all start, you know. Young, eager, and willing to learn. Hungry for knowledge, for strength. It's intoxicating, that feeling that the world is vast, and you're just beginning to understand it."
Naruto looked up at him, his brow furrowing. "And then what?"
Orochimaru leaned forward, his hands clasped loosely in front of him. "Then comes duty. The moment you realize the world expects something of you. Every action, every breath is guided by obligation—whether to a village, a clan, or some grand ideal. It becomes the force that drives you and shapes you. For a while, you believe it's enough. That you're enough."
"But it's not," Naruto said, his voice quieter now.
Orochimaru smiled faintly. "No, it never is. Because after duty comes the most bitter realization of all—disillusionment. You see the flaws in those you once admired, the cracks in the system you've sworn to uphold. And then you want to change. Desperately. But you find yourself powerless to achieve it."
Naruto's hands clenched at his sides. "So what do you do?"
"You crave power," Orochimaru said, his voice darkening, his gaze piercing. "Not for glory or ambition at first, but simply to take control of your own life. To free yourself from the chains that bind you. And then, inevitably, you rebel. Against the old order, against the rules, against the very structure that molded you."
He paused, letting the weight of his words settle in the air. The fire crackled louder for a moment, sending sparks spiraling into the night.
"And then?" Naruto prompted, his voice tight.
"And then you try to live as you please," Orochimaru said softly, leaning back. "For a time, you convince yourself you've succeeded. That you've found freedom. But freedom without purpose... it's hollow. You stumble. You fail. You realize you can't have it all. That the world isn't so easily bent to your will. And with failure comes sadness—a profound, aching grief for what could have been."
Naruto's eyes fell to the lizard at his side, his fingers brushing over its smooth scales. "So... what? You just give up?"
Orochimaru's laugh was dry, almost bitter. "No. That's when you return to your roots. You go back to the very beginning and try to find what you've lost. Not the naïve dreams of youth, but the essence of who you are. You seek to become the solution, the answer to the very questions that once plagued you. It's the final step in the cycle—a return, but also a rebirth."
Naruto stared at him, the firelight reflecting in his blue eyes. "And is that where you are now?"
Orochimaru tilted his head, a faint smile curling his lips. "Perhaps. Or perhaps I'm still rebelling, in my own way. The cycle isn't always linear, Naruto. We move forward, we fall back. What matters is what we learn along the way. And sometimes we teach so that others may learn."
Naruto nodded slowly, his gaze drifting back to the fire. "And what do you want me to learn?"
Orochimaru's voice was calm, almost gentle. "That being a shinobi is more than power or duty. It's about understanding yourself—your strengths, your flaws, your desires. It's about finding balance in a world that thrives on chaos. And it's about knowing when to fight and when to let go."
The two fell into silence again, the fire burning steadily between them. Above, the stars seemed to burn brighter, as if bearing witness to the exchange.
Finally, Naruto spoke, his voice quiet but resolute. "I think I understand. But there's still so much I don't know."
Orochimaru's smile widened a rare flicker of warmth in his otherwise cold demeanor. "Good. That means you're still willing to learn. And that, Naruto, is the first step to greatness."
Naruto continued to stare into the fire, its crackling embers dancing upward like fleeting memories of battles fought and bonds forged. His pet lizard shifted slightly at his side as if sensing the weight of the conversation. "Living, huh?" he muttered, his voice full of skepticism. "That's the hard part, isn't it?"
Orochimaru chuckled, a low, almost serpentine sound that sent shivers down Naruto's spine. "Indeed, Naruto. Living is the hardest jutsu of all. There are no hand signs for it, no shortcuts. It's a constant test of endurance and adaptability, of knowing when to push forward and when to retreat."
Naruto glanced at him, frowning. "You talk like there's no end to it. Like no matter what we do, there's always something waiting to drag us back into the fight."
Orochimaru's eyes glimmered in the firelight, a sharp contrast to his otherwise shadowed face. "Because there is. That's the truth of the world we live in. Peace is fleeting, power is intoxicating, and the struggles of one generation become the burdens of the next. But it's not all hopeless, Naruto. Through the struggle, you carve out your place in the world. That's the real legacy of a shinobi—not the battles they win, but the life they choose to lead."
Naruto exhaled, the weight of those words settling over him like a heavy cloak. He reached down to scratch the lizard's head, the small creature tilting into his touch. "And what if I don't get to choose? What if the world decides for me?"
Orochimaru's smile turned sharper, his teeth catching the firelight. "Then you fight harder until you can make that choice for yourself. That's what it means to master the cycle I spoke of earlier. To break it when necessary, to endure it when you can't. You have more agency than you realize, Naruto. But you must be willing to claim it."
For a long moment, neither spoke. The night pressed in around them, the silence filled only by the distant rustle of desert winds. Finally, Naruto leaned back, his eyes half-lidded with exhaustion. "And in the morning?"
Orochimaru leaned forward, his gaze piercing as if he could see through Naruto's very soul. "In the morning, you face yourself. The strongest foe a shinobi will ever encounter. And if you can conquer that battle... then perhaps you'll be ready for the others."
Naruto gave a faint, humorless chuckle. "You make it sound so simple."
"Simple? No," Orochimaru said, his voice soft but firm. "Necessary? Always."
The fire flickered, casting long shadows over the two figures. Orochimaru rose gracefully, his movements fluid like a serpent uncoiling. "Rest now, Naruto, remember my words. The answers you seek won't come in a single night. They'll come in time, through every choice you make, every battle you fight."
As Orochimaru moved further from the fire, his silhouette swallowed by the shadows of the desert, his mind was alive with thoughts. The clone's presence had been a gamble—an experiment in learning, teaching, and testing. But all things, even experiments, must come to an end.
The flickering firelight painted its last dance on Naruto's form, a creation teetering on the edge of purpose and oblivion. Orochimaru knew what would happen when the clone's time expired. Everything the clone had endured, every technique mastered, every harsh lesson learned—it would return to the original Naruto.
The true purpose of this exercise wasn't survival but refinement. Orochimaru's lips curled into a faint smile, though it held neither joy nor malice. The boy will grow. He will carry this forward in ways even I cannot foresee.
For a moment, Orochimaru hesitated, his serpentine eyes flicking back toward the campfire, where the clone sat, still and contemplative. "You were never meant to last, Naruto," he whispered to the night. "But your end is your true beginning."
The dawn would come soon, its light banishing the cool stillness of the desert night. And with it, Orochimaru thought as he turned to leave for good, a different Naruto will rise, shaped by the flames of this trial. Let's see what he becomes when the fire fades.
Without a backward glance, Orochimaru vanished into the vast expanse of the western desert. Only the fire and its fading embers bore witness to his departure. Come morning, the desert would hold only silence—and the wind would carry the knowledge of the clone back to its creator.
…
The camp was quiet, the gentle hum of nocturnal insects weaving through the chorus of snores. Naruto shifted in his sleep, his senses pricking at the sound of movement outside his tent. He glanced over at Temari, curled up and sound asleep. They had been running for two days through the great Fire Country forest, it had been grueling so far, and she, like the rest of their group, had earned this moment of peace.
Carefully, Naruto slipped out of the tent, the cool night air brushing against his face as he stepped into the dim glow of the campfire's embers. He spotted some of the overnight guards over by a campfire talking, and looking around His eyes landed on a figure perched just at the edge of the clearing.
"Fu?" Naruto's voice was low but unmistakably full of surprise.
The green-haired Jinchūriki turned, her vibrant eyes catching the faint light of the fire. She smiled warmly, waving to greet him, her movements fluid like a dancer.
"Hey, Naruto," she said softly, her tone carrying a mix of nervous excitement and something more.
Naruto frowned slightly, his mind racing. "What are you doing here? You're supposed to be with the others back in Konoha."
Fu shrugged as her smile lit up her face. "I heard what you were planning to do, taking the fight to the Akatsuki. How could I sit back while you face them? You know they will come for me as much as you. I want to help."
Naruto rubbed the back of his head, glancing back at the sleeping camp with Temari alone in their tent. "You know this isn't some random mission, right? The Akatsuki are dangerous, and this mission... it's not exactly a sure thing."
"I know," Fu replied, her voice firm as she stood to her full 5' 2" height. "That's why I'm here. You're not the only Jinchūriki who wants to stand against them. They've been hunting us, and it's about time we fought back."
Naruto studied her, noting the conviction in her stance and the fire in her green eyes. She wasn't going to back down, that much was clear. With a sigh, he motioned for her to follow him.
"Come on," he said, not wanting to wake the others he led her away from the camp. "Let's talk."
The forest was alive with quiet sounds, the canopy above shimmering faintly as moonlight filtered through the leaves. Naruto walked ahead, his hands stuffed into his pockets as he processed Fu's arrival. She matched his pace, her expression thoughtful.
"You're really serious about this," Naruto said finally, glancing at her as they continued to walk.
Fu nodded. "You and I both know what it's like to carry one of these things inside us," she said, her hand brushing her bare stomach. "And I know what the Akatsuki have done to people like us. They took Yugito. They took Roshi and even Killer B, I won't sit back and let them take you—or anyone else."
Naruto stopped, turning to face her fully. "This fight... it's not just about us. It's about everyone. The Akatsuki are a threat to the whole world, not just Jinchūriki. But it's dangerous, Fu. I can't promise everyone's coming back from this."
Fu smiled again, though this time it was softer, tinged with a hint of sadness. "I know. But if I don't fight now, then what's the point of having this power? What's the point of surviving if I can't protect the people I care about? I am part of the family now, aren't I? We share the same blood, that is what Sakura's test showed."
Naruto was quiet for a moment, his blue eyes searching hers. Finally, he let out a small laugh, shaking his head. "You're stubborn, you know that? I guess that shows you're an Uzumaki."
"Takes one to know one," Fu shot back, grinning.
Naruto smirked, his expression softening. "Alright. Fine. But if you're here, you're following my orders. Got it?"
"Got it," Fu said, her tone light but sincere.
They walked a little farther, the air feeling just a little lighter in the stillness of the night. Looking at Fu Naruto felt a sense that she understood him in a way that only another Jinchūriki could.
He halted his steps in the center of a serene woodland clearing, surrounded by tall grass that tickled his knees. Above, the moon appeared from behind a veil of clouds, casting its pale light upon the scene. Turning to meet Fu's gaze, he noticed something different in her eyes. Though he had never paid her much attention before, she now looked at him with a depth that sparked his interest. The way she held his gaze made him question if her previous disinterest was genuine.
Naruto's gaze lingered on Fū, taking in every detail of her appearance. She was a petite kunoichi with a warm, tan complexion that seemed to glow under the moonlight. Her vibrant mint green hair fell in perfectly layered waves to her chin, framing her striking features. Her outfit—a short white midriff shirt that revealed her toned stomach and ended just below her breasts—was paired with fishnet underneath, adding a touch of edginess to her look. Long white armlets hugged her slender arms, and fishnet shorts, paired with a short white apron skirt held together by a single button, accentuated her slim waist with a hint of playfulness. Fū's lithe frame exuded sharp athleticism, her chest almost flat, which complemented her sleek, agile appearance and matched her energetic, carefree personality. As Naruto observed her, he couldn't help but admire Fū's unique and captivating presence.
Fu stepped closer, her breath warm against his skin. She looked up at him, the soft moonlight reflecting in her eyes as her fingers brushed against his chest under his jacket. The world around them seemed to fade into nothingness, and for the first time in what felt like forever, Naruto felt understood.
"You've always been so strong, Naruto," she said softly, her voice carrying a vulnerability he hadn't heard before. "But strength isn't everything, is it?" Her words hung in the air, an unspoken question, as her gaze searched his. "Sometimes... sometimes I need someone to lean on."
Naruto's breath caught in his throat, his mind racing. With her standing so close, something in him shifted. It wasn't about the battles to come or the weight of being a clan head. It was about something simpler.
Fu's smile was soft, almost shy as she placed her hand on his, her fingers curling around his. "I've seen the way they all look at you," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "The other women... Sakura and even Karui have shared the times you had with them." Her eyes flicked to his, a playful glint in them. "They've told me what it's like to be with you."
Naruto's heart skipped a beat, his gaze meeting hers. "What's it like?" he asked, his voice low not understanding that women talk about such things, unlike the shinobi he knows.
She tilted her head, her fingers tracing a line down his arm. "It's... something I think I would want," she said quietly, her voice filled with a sincerity that made his chest tighten. "I want to know, Naruto. I want to see what it's like, to truly be with you, not just as a member of the clan, but as something more. Something... closer."
Her words hung in the air like a soft melody, lingering between them as Naruto's mind wandered back to how his life had led to this moment. He could feel the pull between them, like magnets drawn together by an unshakeable force. Without hesitation, he closed the distance between them and pressed his lips softly against hers. The kiss was unhurried, fueled only by the need to test her reaction.
As their lips moved in sync, the intensity between them grew and Naruto wrapped his arms around her, lifting her off her feet. At that moment, nothing else existed outside of their bubble of stillness. The world faded away as they surrendered to the quiet yearning within them.
When they finally broke apart, gasping for breath, Fu's smile was tender and her hand played gently with his hair. "That...that was what I needed to know," she whispered, her voice filled with warmth and affection. "I am here now, Naruto. Not as a Jinchūriki, not as a warrior...but as a woman."
Naruto nodded, his chest rising and falling from the intensity of their kiss. His expression softened as he spoke, "And I'm here for you too, Fu." His voice was steady as he continued to kiss her, trailing his lips down her neck while she squirmed in his arms.
When he found a particularly sensitive spot, Fu giggled and wriggled free, her laughter light and breathless. "That tickles," she said before darting forward, pushing his jacket off his shoulders and pinning his arms to his sides. "Now it's my turn," she declared with a mischievous grin.
To his surprise she dropped her to knee and reached up to undo his belt, "Are you sure about this?" he asked as she worked her fingers to drop his pants to the ground.
"Sakura said that I had to just dive in so…" she said and with a quick pull dropped his shorts down to join his pants.
"Oh, they said big but I had no idea," she said as he stood there proud.
The clearing was bathed in soft moonlight, the grass beneath their feet cool and damp. Naruto's breath hitched as Fu's small fingers tentatively wrapped around him, her touch delicate yet curious. The intimacy of the moment wasn't rushed; it carried the weight of trust and the unspoken bond that had grown between them.
"It's been a while for you, hasn't it?" Fu asked softly, her mint-green eyes shining as they met his. Her voice carried a mix of playfulness and shyness, her hand moving along his length as though testing herself.
Naruto's heart thudded in his chest, but he nodded, his voice steady. "Yeah... it has."
"Can I... do what I want?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, her gaze unwavering as she awaited his response.
He swallowed, his hands trapped at his side. "Only do what you want," he added between clenched teeth.
She leaned closer, her breath warm against his skin as she pressed a soft, tentative kiss to him. The gesture, shy yet deliberate, spoke volumes. It wasn't about lust—it was about trust, about taking this step together.
Naruto's chest rose and fell, his gaze fixed on her with an intensity that made her heart race. He placed a hand gently on her shoulder, his voice quiet but steady. "Fu... you don't have to rush this. Just... be yourself."
Fu smiled at his words, her nerves settling as she realized he wasn't pressuring her. "I know," she replied softly. "I want this."
She forcefully pulled his hardened member down and gave it a rough, teeth-clenching kiss before her tongue darted out to test its taste. Then, with a wicked grin on her face, she began to use her tongue to relentlessly lick circles around the head, each one more intense than the last. He couldn't hold back any longer as a guttural groan escaped his lips and a stream of clear fluid dripped down her hands. But she wasn't satisfied yet, using both hands to pump his throbbing member until he thought it couldn't possibly get any harder.
Then, with a primal hunger in her eyes, she opened her mouth wide and barely fit the head inside before sucking hard, as if trying to drain him completely. "God, you're going to be the death of me," he moaned, unable to resist the overwhelming pleasure flooding his mind. With every thrust of his hips, she continued to work her magic, pushing him closer and closer to the edge.
She didn't have the skill of Sakura but it was clear she had taken lessons from her as she used the same motions as his pink-haired lover and when she started to stroke his balls to the rhythm of her bobbing head it took everything he had not to explode in her mouth.
Shaking off his jacket, Naruto pulled his shirt over his head, the sweat on his skin making him feel even hotter. His fingers gently ran through her hair, the urge to pull her closer strong, but he held back, wanting to savor the moment. He wanted this to last, to let her take the lead without overwhelming her, knowing that pushing too hard might scare her off. Her mouth stretched wide as she hungrily took him in, barely fitting the head as she sucked with an intensity that made him feel like she was trying to drain every last drop from his balls.
When she pulled back with a pop his knees almost buckled as she locked eyes with him, "Don't hold back, I know what to expect." she said, "I want it, please." the pleading sound to her voice almost caused him to unload right then and there but with the willpower of the container of the might Nine-Tails he held back as she sucked him back into he mouth never losing eye contact as she moved.
With her newfound skill, it didn't take long for her to push him over the edge. He exploded with days of pent-up need, flooding her mouth as she stared into his eyes with a fierce hunger. The taste of him was rich and intoxicating, dripping out around her lips as she held on tight, never pausing, never stopping as he poured into her. She relished in the power she had over him, driving him wild with pleasure until with one last grunt he finished releasing himself. With a sly grin, she sat back on her heels and ran an arm over her chin to wipe her face clean. "That was even better than they said," exclaimed Fu, still stroking him. "What do we do next?" she then asked with a mischievous glint in her eye.
His legs freed from the tangled clothes in a swift kick, he dropped to the ground in front of her. Trembling, he gripped her shoulders, eyes locking as he gently lowered her back into the grass. He didn't want to rush, but the way she pushed all the right buttons left him struggling to control himself.
"Fu, Can I?" he asked looking down on her small frame as he hovered over her.
She seemed to relax, offering him a silent nod as if her voice had abandoned her. With her unspoken consent, he slid his hands down her smooth, tanned legs, gently removing one sandal and then the other. His hands moved back up, his fingers working slowly to undo the single button, letting the skirt fall away. The first thing he noticed was the fishnet shorts beneath, leaving little to the imagination.
With a commanding gesture, he hooked his finger at the top of her skin-tight shorts and forcefully pulled them down, revealing her smooth and clean-shaven pussy. The soft skin glistened in the dim light, drawing his eyes to the delicate folds and curves that lay between her thighs. A tuft of green hair at the top only added to the teasing allure, sending a surge of arousal through his body.
"I need to see all of you," he growled as his hands reached for her tight top, but she stopped him with a warning. "Don't laugh," she breathed out as she sat up and swiftly removed her top and fishnet all at once before laying back down. As she lay there, fully exposed to him, he couldn't help but marvel at her beauty. Every inch of her was like a goddess, from the warm, tan skin to the petite athletic frame that exuded strength and sharpness. Her hard nipples stood proudly on her flat chest, her breasts barely visible, adding to her sleek and agile appearance.
"God, you look so fucking good," he groaned as he ran his hands over every inch of her body, savoring the feel of her skin against his fingertips. He couldn't resist the urge to touch every curve and dip with his hands, massaging and caressing her in all the right places. He looked down at his throbbing member, begging for release, and couldn't help but ask for permission despite knowing it was unnecessary. "Can I …" he asked, his voice dripping with desire as he looked into her eyes. She gave him a silent nod, spreading her legs open wider to invite him closer.
His heart raced as he positioned himself between her legs and entered her slowly, savoring the feeling of being inside of this stunning creature. She was tight, tighter than he expected and it took some time before he was able to fix within her. As soon as he felt her relax again him moved, their bodies in perfect harmony as they lost themselves in pleasure, her moans growing louder and more desperate as they gave in completely to their desires. In this moment, nothing else existed but the two of them, lost in the fiery heat and passion of their bodies entwined.
Her body trembled and convulsed as he thrust into her with all his strength, her legs wrapped tightly around his waist and her arms gripping his shoulders. She let out a primal scream that echoed through the night, matching his own groans of pleasure. Every movement sent jolts of electric ecstasy up his spine, fueling his relentless pace. With each thrust, he felt her reaching her peak, her walls clenching around him until they both finally exploded in an intense release of pent-up desire.
As she lay beneath him, gasping for air, he looked down at her with heated intensity, a flash of pure satisfaction in his eyes. But before he could catch his breath, she pulled him back down to her, her hips grinding against his in a desperate plea for more. And with renewed vigor, he obliged, pounding into her with wild abandon, driving deeper and deeper until they were both lost in a sea of carnal pleasure. As her legs wrapped around his waist and her nails digging into his back. Her body trembles as he thrusts into her, hitting all the right spots and sending shockwaves of ecstasy through her.
Minutes or hours later, he couldn't be sure, but when he pushed himself up on his arms to look down at her flushed and satisfied face, she only smiled and whispered, "Can you do it more". And so he placed her ankles on his shoulders and continued on throughout the night, the sound of his hips slapping into her apprised rear the only sound they could hear.
Naruto had finally met his match, her endless stamina was equal to his own as the forest creatures looked on as two Jinchūriki lost themself in each other.
….
When Naruto returned to camp that morning, he looked disheveled, his hair tangled with bits of grass, and a grin plastered across his face that didn't seem to want to leave. As the camp bustled with activity, everyone packing up their gear in preparation for the final leg of their journey, Temari walked up to him, about to ask where he'd been. She had noticed he was missing when she woke up, but before she could get the question out, her eyes fell on Fu.
Fu stood just a few feet behind him, looking just as disheveled, with a grin that mirrored Naruto's. But it was the subtle detail that caught Temari's attention—the missing fishnet shorts and top Fu typically wore. They were nowhere to be seen, replaced instead by an air of casual confidence, but the absence was stark, and the sight made Temari's jaw tighten.
Temari stomped over to Naruto, her brows furrowed as she stopped in front of him. Without a word, she looked him in the eye, then tilted her chin toward Fu, who was now walking toward them.
"Did you?" she asked, her tone sharp, though it was clear she already had an idea of what had happened.
Naruto, taken aback, rubbed the back of his head, unsure how to respond. He gave a small, hesitant nod, knowing there was no use in hiding it.
The next thing he knew, Temari's hand connected with his cheek in a resounding slap. He stumbled backward, landing on his ass, his hand flying up to his face in surprise.
"Fucking manwhore!" Temari yelled at him, spinning around without another word and storming off.
Naruto sat on the ground, stunned. His cheek burned from the slap, but his grin never faltered. He rubbed his cheek and glanced at Fu, who gave him a small, amused shrug as she walked past. She had gotten what she wanted and she would get it again, and if Temari wanted to join them she would enjoy that too.
"Maybe I should've handled that better," he muttered to himself, but the grin remained. He wasn't sure what had just happened, women's reactions always confused him but it was clear Temari was upset, and he wasn't sure how to fix it. All he knew was that, for now, he would have to find a way to deal with it.
…
It only took me what? 30 chapters but I finally found a way to get Fu on her back ;-) She was the last one on my list so if there are any others you better tell me now. Sorry for any typos, I got to head out.