Disclaimer: I do not own any of the content following this statement. Masashi Kishimoto owns all titles, names, and plots.
Author Note: I am working on the badass version of Naruto, and I am working up to it.
Family Matters
Naruto leaned against the gate, an easy grin on his face as he waited, keeping an eye out for any sign of his friends. Kurama had been restless, muttering that he could feel Fu's chakra getting closer, which meant Sakura and Temari couldn't be far off. His anticipation only grew, and he shared a few laughs with the gate guards to pass the time.
One of the guards nudged him, chuckling. "Waiting for the ladies, eh, Naruto? You sure you can handle that much trouble all at once?"
Naruto rolled his eyes, grinning. "Trouble? You're talking to a guy who's saved the world. I think I can handle a few more women," he shot back with a laugh, sparking a round of amused agreement from the guards. They all knew and feared his current wives with good reason.
Just then, a familiar flash of pink hair caught his eye in the distance, and he instantly straightened up. Without a second thought, he sprinted forward, closing the gap between them. A small group of women approached, walking slowly toward the village entrance. Sakura was at the center, supporting a tired Yugito, who was leaning on her shoulder, her steps unsteady after all this time. Temari walked just ahead of them, her face lighting up when she spotted Naruto running toward them.
Fu, floating a few feet above the ground, hovered around, wide-eyed as she took in every sight and sound of Konoha. Her gaze darted from the wall to sights of the rooftops and storefronts, a look of childlike curiosity on her face as they neared the village.
Naruto reached Temari first, pulling her into a warm hug followed by a passionate kiss before he broke away, running over to Sakura giving her the same, and then to Karui, with a little less excitement wondering why she was there, they all could see the relief on his face. He noticed Fu hovering back a bit, maintaining a small distance from the others, her expression cautious despite her awe. He would have to find the time to talk to her alone
With a nod from Sakura, Naruto created two clones. One of them carefully lifted Yugito from Sakura's side, cradling her gently.
"Take her to the hospital, and alert the Hokage we are here." Sakura directed, her voice both grateful and relieved, home, they had made it home.
Naruto nodded, letting one of his clones carry Yugito toward the hospital while he gave his full attention to the rest of the group. His grin never faded as he turned back to them.
"What took you guys so long?" Naruto asked, looking from one face to the other. It had been two weeks of worry, and if it weren't for his wives being so close to giving birth, he would have gone looking for them himself long ago. His army of clones, the ones that had burst at least hadn't seen them.
"We had to take it slow. Yugito's still suffering, but there's something else going on out there," Temari replied as they all quickened their pace to get behind the safety of the village walls. "We spotted ANBU squads from three different villages near the border of Kaminari no Kuni."
"Yeah, I know," Naruto said, waving to the ever-present Chunin at the gates but keeping his distance to avoid getting pulled into their endless chatter.
"What? What do you mean, you know?" Karui asked, glancing up at Naruto and at the village buildings as they turned toward the Uzumaki compound.
Naruto quickened his pace, not wanting to draw attention to their small group as they walked down the main streets. He led them down a shortcut, soon finding a quieter side street with few passersby where they could talk more openly.
"Two days ago, we learned what happened to Kumogakure," Naruto said, slowing down as he let the others gather around, the memory of that night heavy on his mind.
….
A loud, frantic pounding on the front door jolted everyone awake.
Naruto leaped out of bed, adrenaline rushing, instinctively moving toward the noise.
"Hey! At least put on a robe or something!" Tayuya called, her voice groggy as she propped herself up in bed, blinking at her husband's naked form.
"Oh, right," Naruto muttered, half-awake, as he grabbed his robe, pulling it on hastily. He hurried down the hall, through the kitchen, and into the great room.
The pounding at the door was relentless. Gathering his chakra, he readied himself, bracing for a possible threat as he threw the door open.
Ino stood there in all her blonde glory, her arm still raised mid-knock. Behind her was Haru, exhausted, her face streaked with dirt and her once sleek Root uniform torn and caked with a mix of mud and blood. Two other Root members flanked them, scanning the hallway as if expecting danger to jump out from the shadows.
Ino strode into the room, giving Naruto a hard, urgent look. "I have news. Bad news," she said, her voice low and tense. "Where's the brain trust? I need to say this once."
"What the hell are you doing here at this hour?" Tayuya's sharp voice rang out as she entered the room with Karin. Both wore hastily thrown-on robes, their hair disheveled from sleep.
Naruto looked at Ino and Haru, sensing the gravity of their arrival before they even spoke. He closed the door behind them, and everyone gathered in the great room, tension thick in the air.
Ino took a deep breath, her face hardened with the knowledge she was to share. "It's worse than any of us could've imagined," she began, her voice barely concealing her dread. "Kumogakure… it's gone."
A stunned silence filled the room, broken only by Haru's shaky breath. Her eyes were wide, haunted, as she took a step forward, looking between Naruto and the others. "I… I was there. I saw it happen."
Naruto felt his stomach twist. He'd feared bad news, but this went beyond anything he expected. "What happened?" he asked quietly, his voice steady but low, urging her to continue.
Haru swallowed, trying to control the tremor in her voice. "It was… Pain," she said, almost choking on the name. "He… he destroyed everything. They didn't even stand a chance. Killer B—" She faltered, struggling to find words, as if speaking the truth would make it all too real. "He tried to fight, but Pain… he just… he was unstoppable. I watched Killer B fall, they dragged him away."
Haru's hands continued to tremble as she gripped her side, blood seeping through her torn uniform from a wound that reopened as she spoke. "It was like nothing I've ever seen," she whispered, her voice hollow with fear. "The Raikage—he tried to fight back, but he was… he was thrown around like a ragdoll like he didn't even matter." Her eyes grew distant, lost in the memory. "They left him trapped inside that sphere… floating hundreds of feet in the air, like some kind of twisted trophy."
The silence in the room was thick and heavy. Karin's hand trembled as she clutched her mouth, struggling to keep her composure. Tayuya's expression darkened, a mix of anger and fear in her narrowed eyes. She would take Naruto to the lowest levels tonight and have him fill the seal Matrix with all of his chakra, she would drain him and fox dry to protect the children.
Naruto's face was set in a grim, frozen mask. "So it's all gone? The entire village?" His voice was low, barely concealing the anger brewing beneath.
Ino nodded solemnly. "Only a handful made it out, scattered and barely alive. My people didn't even have time to reach the village center before… before they were forced to pull back. Haru here is lucky she made it back at all. I had a dozen clan members living in that village, gone, all of them gone."
Haru swayed slightly, exhaustion and trauma etched into her every movement. "Lucky," she repeated in a strained voice, almost to herself. "But if Pain can do that to Kumogakure… none of us are safe." She looked at Naruto, a desperate, pleading look in her eyes. "If he could do that there, he could do it anywhere. We are lost, lost…" Her voice trailed off as she swayed on her feet before collapsing.
Naruto was quick, catching her in his arms before she hit the floor. Karin moved over instantly, placing her hand on Haru's forehead to assess her injuries. "Lay her down," she said, her voice calm but serious.
Tayuya rolled her eyes and waved dismissively. "Take her to the kitchen, I don't want blood on the rugs."
Naruto shot her a look but moved Haru to the kitchen, Karin close behind, already summoning her chakra to begin treating Haru's wounds. Tayuya and Ino exchanged a glance, both silently bracing themselves for what might come next.
"Why didn't you take her to the hospital?" asked Tayuya, peering through the doorway into the kitchen. She watched Karin working over Haru's prone form, her face set in concentration as she tried to stop the bleeding. A pool of blood was already forming beneath Haru, dark and spreading.
"She is unconscious, I can't get her to bite me", said Karin in response to something Naruto must have said.
"She didn't seem that bad," Ino replied, grimacing as she waved one of her attending guards over. "Go tell the Hokage we need her here at the Uzumaki compound," she ordered, her voice sharp and unwavering. The guard nodded, disappearing in an instant with a Body Flicker. Shunshin no Jutsu took him to the Hokage tower in a heartbeat.
Ino turned back, her eyes fixed on Karin's frantic efforts, a worried frown deepening as the pool of blood widened beneath Haru. Every second felt like an eternity. Haru was not just one of her best agents; she was also a close cousin among the many members of her family. Ino clenched her fists, and using her training she shut out the fear that threatened to overtake her heart—the thought of losing Haru tonight was unbearable but like many things in this world she would bear this pain as a clan head should.
A war was looming on the horizon, darkening their world, and all she could do was pray to the gods that Haru wasn't the first casualty in the bloodshed to come.
…
As Naruto finished recounting the story, Omoi stood frozen, his eyes wide in disbelief. His face drained of color, and for a moment, he couldn't breathe as the reality of the news sank in. His mind couldn't process it—his home, the village in the clouds, was gone? How? No, no, it can't be true. He shook his head, his thoughts a frantic swirl. It didn't make sense. He had to see it with his own eyes.
"I... I have to go." Omoi's voice was low, almost strained, as he finally tore his gaze from the empty street. His mind raced, grappling with the enormity of what he had just learned—the faces of his friends and comrades flashing before him. The places they had gathered, the hopes they had held, were now seemingly lost.
His words hung in the air, though he wasn't sure to whom he was speaking. He barely noticed the tension in his body—the fist clenching at his side, his hand running through his hair in agitation. His heart raced, the weight of the unknown future crashing down on him. His village, his home—everything he had known—was it all gone? How could he not have known?
"Karui, come. We have to go back," he said, not looking at her, his gaze fixed on his trembling hands.
I have to see it for myself. I can't just stand here, he thought desperately. A hardened resolve flickered in his expression, despite the confusion swirling inside him. "I… We have to go. Now."
Without waiting for a response, Omoi used a body flicker, disappearing in an instant, leaving only the faintest trace of movement behind.
The group stood in stunned silence. Omoi's abrupt departure left a heavy air between them. Everyone's gaze turned to Karui, who stood silently by Fu's side, her expression unreadable as she stared at the spot where Omoi had vanished.
Kumogakure had been her home, all she had known for years. But now, everything has changed. The truth that had been buried deep inside her for so long came rushing to the surface—she was Uzumaki. Her family was here, not there. The weight of that revelation stirred something deep inside her—something that felt both like a blessing and a curse.
Her thoughts drifted back to Kumogakure. To the years she had spent there, living in the shadows, treated as little more than a tool for the village's needs. She remembered how they had turned a blind eye to her, kept her at arm's length—always a second-class citizen—until Killer B had seen something in her. He had trained her and shaped her into the shinobi she was now, ready to fight and die for the village that had never fully embraced her.
But was that enough? Was it enough to return to a place that had only acknowledged her when she was useful? The very village that had never accepted her as one of their own? The thought of going back now with B gone, of returning to that cold, impersonal life, churned uneasily in her stomach.
Then, there was this place—her place. The Uzumaki clan. The warmth, the unity, the feeling of belonging she had only just begun to understand. Could she walk away from this? Could she leave behind the family she had only just found? The thought of staying here, of learning what it meant to truly belong, filled her with both excitement and dare she say hope for the future.
Is this what it means to have a family? she wondered, her heart heavy with the weight of the question.
The decision felt monumental, pressing down on her chest. She glanced at Fu, who stood beside her with a quiet, understanding smile. Fu had known what it was like to feel lost, to be a stray in the world. But here, Fu seemed more than just a companion—she seemed like someone who had found her place, someone who had discovered what it meant to be part of something greater. When Fu learned she was part of this clan, she didn't hesitate to run to Naruto's side, to be part of the family he cherished so deeply.
Karui inhaled sharply, her mind racing through the options before her. Kumogakure had been a place of survival—a place where she had been molded by necessity. But was that all she wanted from life? She had fought so hard to prove herself there, to carve out a name for herself. But now that was all gone and the thought of walking away from her newfound family, of severing ties with those who truly understood her, felt like a betrayal in itself.
"I…" she began, her voice soft but firm, a sense of clarity slowly taking root. "I'm not going back. Not yet."
She looked at Naruto, the weight of her decision evident in her gaze. Then, her eyes met Fu's, who smiled encouragingly, offering her silent support. Karui's heart felt heavy with uncertainty, but for the first time in a long while, the choice felt right. "I'm staying. Here, with my family."
A sense of relief began to wash over her. With it, the subtle echoes of her past began to fade. Kumogakure—the village she had fought so hard for, the years spent surviving in its shadows—seemed less important now. The bonds she had with the people here, with Naruto and Fu, felt like something she had never known before, acceptance, connection, and the chance to build a new life.
The past, the pain, the struggles—it was time to let them go.
"Come on, Fu! Let's see if this Uzumaki building is as fancy as Temari told us!" Karui exclaimed, her voice light and full of excitement as she looked ahead, always ahead and never backward. The playful mischief in her tone felt freeing as if the weight of her past were lifting off her shoulders.
With a grin brighter than any she had shown in years, Karui bounded ahead, glancing back to make sure Fu was following. The playful energy in her step was a stark contrast to the somber mood that had hung over them just moments before, as though she were leaving the past behind in her wake.
Naruto watched her, his gaze softening. He understood more than anyone the pain of being alone, of feeling like an outcast—even as part of him, the future Hokage part, knew the duty she carried for Kumogakure. He could feel the quiet resolve in her, the same sense of isolation he had seen in so many members of the Uzumaki clan.
She had lived the life of so many before her—fighting for survival, caring for a village that hadn't always returned the favor, forced to stand alone in a world that didn't seem to care. And yet, here she was, making the choice to step into a family—into something she could finally belong to. She had found a place where she could be more than just a soldier.
Fu hesitated, shyly tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Do you think it's really that impressive?" she asked softly. She wasn't used to so many people around, and with her very short skirt and tan skin, she was attracting the eye of every man on the street.
"Impressive? Maybe! But it's definitely worth checking out," Karui replied, winking at her. She slowed her pace just enough for Fu to catch up, looping her arm around the other girl's shoulder. "Besides, if it's not, we can always blame Temari for hyping it up."
Fu giggled, her initial shyness melting away in Karui's warm presence. "That sounds fair." With Sakura busy caring for Yugito, Fu hadn't had a chance for some alone time, and now, with Karui's friendly energy, Fu felt that same closeness. She always wanted more friends—the more the better.
As they walked, Karui playfully nudged Fu with her hip, an affectionate gesture that drew a bright smile from Fu. Karui pulled her closer, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. "You know, I don't get it," Karui teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "You're this powerful Jinchūriki, yet you're all shy around the guys. But with me, you're all touchy-feely!"
Fu blushed a mix of embarrassment and delight washing over her. "I guess it's just… easier with girls. They make me feel safe." Her heart raced as she leaned into Karui's embrace, feeling a warmth that soothed her nerves. The playful camaraderie danced between them, a lightness that felt refreshing amidst the chaos surrounding them, and it was a welcome change from the isolation she'd felt while Sakura was preoccupied.
"Good! Let's keep it that way. You and I are going to have some fun!" Karui declared, her excitement infectious as they made their way toward the Uzumaki compound, ready to discover what surprises awaited them.
Karui's heart raced. There was something about Fu that excited her in ways she couldn't fully articulate. It wasn't just that Fu was strong; it was the allure of her status as a Jinchūriki that drew Karui in like a moth to a flame. She admired their power and the unique struggles they faced, and Fu embodied everything she found fascinating. It was like looking at a rare drink through a fogged glass—something she craved but couldn't quite grasp.
"Maybe I'm just obsessed," Karui thought, feeling the heat of Fu's body against her own. "But it's not just about her it's the bond has as a Jinchūriki. She's like a glimpse into a world I can't help but want to be a part of." The way Fu responded to her, with laughter and warmth, fueled Karui's desire to be closer. "If I can just get a little deeper into her world, I might discover something incredible, I could be something incredible."
With each playful nudge and shared smile, Karui felt that intoxicating urge—an almost primal instinct to reach out, to consume, to possess that which captivated her. She was drawn to Fu not just for who she was, but for what she represented. Karui wanted to be part of Fu's strength, to bask in her power. Karui felt a thrill race through her. Something was intoxicating about Fu, a raw energy that radiated from her very being. It was a dangerous power that Karui couldn't ignore, and the more time they spent together, the more she craved to possess that energy, if only for a moment.
In her mind, Karui saw Fu not as a friend, but as a gateway to something larger. The thought of being intimate with Fu sent a shiver down her spine—a twisted desire to intertwine their bodies, their fates, to hold that power in her grasp, to control it, if only briefly. "What if I could control that strength?" Karui pondered, a predatory glint in her eyes. "What if I could claim it, if only for a moment to feel it course through me?" The idea was almost obsessive, a dark fantasy that made her heart pound with both fear and excitement. "I could show her just how much I admire that strength," she thought, feeling an overwhelming urge to draw Fu closer, to cement their bond through something deeper, something primal in the same way she had done with Naruto.
Yes, Naruto, was overwhelming, too much to tame, to control but Fu was not as strong as Naruto, and soon Karui would find a way to tame her.
With each playful nudge and shared smile, Karui felt the seductive pull of her darker desires—a compelling mix of lust and ambition that blurred the lines between friendship and obsession. As they walked together, she silently resolved to get closer, to explore that tantalizing possibility of power, using intimacy as her tool. The thrill of it all ignited a fire within her, leaving her hungry for more.
"God, I hope they want us to share a room," Karui thought, a mischievous smile tugging at her lips as she watched Naruto stroll ahead with Temari, his arm comfortably around her shoulder. The day felt almost too perfect, with a golden sun high overhead, casting a warm glow that painted every corner of the village in a gentle light. People bustled around them, their faces cheerful, their laughter spilling into the streets, creating an atmosphere that was unmistakably alive.
As they walked down the narrow side street, the close buildings on either side created a cozy, shaded path. For a while, they were enveloped by the intimacy of the small street, laughing quietly among themselves, enjoying the warmth of each other's company. But then, as the street opened up into a spacious square, they suddenly had a clear view of the village skyline—and right in the middle of it stood the impressive Uzumaki compound.
"See? I told you it'd be something to look at," Temari said, her eyes gleaming as she spun around to face Karui and Fu, sweeping her arm up to direct their gaze. "Welcome to the Uzumaki compound!"
Karui's eyes widened as she took in the sight before her. The building was taller than she had expected—seven solid stories of stone and steel, a fortress that looked both unbreakable and beautifully polished. The massive Uzumaki clan sign at the top gleamed proudly, declaring their presence; like Naruto, the building was loud and proud.
She noted the rows of glass windows, each one reflecting the village and the sky above like mirrors. It gave the compound a strange, almost mystical allure as if it were connecting the clan within to the world outside. The steel shutters, subtly visible along the window frames, hinted at its defenses, reinforcing the building's quiet, impenetrable strength. The entire place seemed designed not just to house people but to shelter them. Karui felt a sense of safety she hadn't known in a long time—a place that could be counted on to keep its people secure.
It brought back memories of her childhood on the streets, where security had been a distant dream. She'd learned to survive in back alleys, fending for herself and sleeping under open skies with nothing but stone walls to shield her. This place, though…this place felt different. For the first time in a long time, she allowed herself to imagine feeling safe.
Moving closer they could see the back of the top floor was adorned with a wide balcony, overlooking the river that shimmered in the warm sunlight. They knew that the view of the village spread out on the other side would be breathtaking. It was easy to imagine spending quiet moments there, letting the breeze carry away the day's stress.
"Whoa," Fu whispered, her eyes alight as she grabbed Karui's arm, squeezing with excitement. "This is... incredible." She looked around, marveling at the impressive surroundings. It was all so much grander than Takigakure. Her home village was hidden underground, nestled behind a waterfall with low, mud-walled buildings that barely scraped the surface—worlds away from the towering structures and open air here.
Karui grinned, feeling that spark of energy herself. "Guess we'll have to see the inside now, huh? If it's even half as fancy as the outside..."
"Oh, you haven't even seen the best part," Temari said, smirking. "Just wait till you step inside."
They crossed a small bridge and down the street before entering the main floor, where polished marble floors gleamed under the sunlight streaming through the large entrance. The first floor itself was a blend of sophistication and energy, bustling with high-end shops that lined the walls, each storefront an exclusive display of luxury goods. They quickly noticed that every shop was operated by a pink-haired Haruno family member, the stores showcasing an array of premium products—from handcrafted jewelry to luxurious fabrics and artisanal teas—designed to elevate the clan's status and appeal. The air smelled faintly of rich perfumes and exotic spices, adding to the allure of the place.
Nobles and merchants dressed in robes of fine silk from all the Five Great Nations—and even beyond—wandered from shop to shop, a small army of servants trailing behind, burdened with bags and boxes of luxury goods. Karui observed the scene, bewildered by how a hidden village would allow so many outsiders within its borders. In the Land of Lightning, such openness would be unthinkable.
Temari had gilded them to the far entrance forcing them to cross through the whole of the first floor allowing them to do some window shopping to the main lobby where they found a blue and white swirling marble floor looking to all the world-like a storm out at sea, in the center stood an ornate statue—a round, tilted piece with intricate carvings swirling in a pattern that mirrored the Uzumaki symbol. To most, it appeared as an artful tribute to the clan, but Karui and Fu exchanged glances, sensing there was more to it. The statue hummed with latent power, a silent warning to anyone foolish enough to challenge the clan's holdings.
The blend of elegance, strength, and power, combined with high-end style, left Karui both impressed and oddly possessive of the place. It felt as if she had stepped into a world apart—one not only designed to impress but to protect, as if the building itself was declaring, All who belong here are safe.
This was the world of the Uzumaki. She had only recently learned that she carried the blood of the clan, but for some strange reason, it already felt like home. Hugging Fu's arm, she grinned up at Naruto. "This feels like home," she said, her excitement bubbling up, pushing away the worry and fear of what had happened to her friends back in Konohagakure.
The door to the main family apartment swung open, and Karui boldly walked in first, followed closely by Fu. The two women stood at the threshold for a moment, surveying the room and the people within it. An almost palpable tension hung in the air, and Karui could feel it. It wasn't just the unfamiliarity of the space—it was the people. She had met Naruto, but the others were new, and the way they looked at her and Fu made her feel as if they were judging them and found them wanting.
Karin was sitting on a plush couch, her sharp eyes studying the new arrivals. Her expression softened only slightly when she saw them, though it was clear she was sizing them up, calculating their potential.
Tayuya leaned against the wall, her arms crossed, not bothering to hide the skepticism on her face. "What, are you bringing home strays or something?" she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm as her eyes scanned the newcomers with curiosity. She wasn't about to give them a free pass just because they showed up with Naruto.
Temari stepped forward, her posture stiff, and her eyes narrowing slightly as she sized up Karin and Tayuya. Their bellies had grown much larger than the last time she had seen them. It was clear to her that the time was close—very close. Her voice was cool, with an edge that suggested she wasn't in the mood for games.
"Welcome home... to you too, sister wives," she said, glancing around the room. "Where are the children?" Her unspoken question—where is my son?—lingered in the air. Using those words around Tayuya was just asking for a fight.
Naruto stepped inside behind them, offering a brief smile. "Everyone, this is Karui and you know Fu. Karui is from the Land of Lightning," he said, his voice carrying the weight of authority. But there was something in his eyes that suggested even he wasn't entirely sure how this would unfold. "They're... going to be staying with us for a while."
Fu offered a soft smile, but her eyes flicked nervously from person to person, trying to gauge the mood. She wasn't used to being the center of attention, and it felt as though she was being weighed in some way. She had spent some time with both of Naruto's wives before, but that had been a year ago—and she had run away then. Would they welcome her back now?
"The brats are in the dojo," Tayuya answered, pushing herself away from the wall and walking over to Temari, sizing her up with a scrutinizing glance. Seeing nothing out of place, she smiled one of her rare smiles. "Welcome home. I missed you," she said, wrapping her arms around Temari in a hug. Temari didn't respond at first, but after a moment, she pulled the shorter woman into a strong hug in return.
Pulling back, Temari said, "I will return. I just want to see Kazuki."
"Go before I kick you out," Tayuya joked, slapping Temari's ass as she turned to leave. The action stirred something in Temari, a reminder of the wild nights they had shared just a few months ago, when she had let Tayuya take control, surrendering herself to the redhead's relentless dominance until she couldn't take it anymore. It was a memory that still left a hot, lingering sensation, one that Temari quickly shook off, though she couldn't help the faint flush on her cheeks as she walked out.
The door clicked shut behind Naruto, and the room fell into a brief, uneasy silence. Karin looked up from her seat, her sharp eyes cutting through the atmosphere like a blade. As clan head, she had mastered the art of observation, and she immediately noticed the way Karui's gaze lingered on her and Tayuya, a calculating assessment that matched her own. With a cool, almost regal air, Karin swept a hand through her long hair, then turned her eyes toward Fu.
She gave a slight nod in Fu's direction, the smallest of gestures that felt more like an invitation than a command. "Come, sit," she said smoothly, her voice low, almost a purr. "You must be tired from your travels. It has been a long time, and I am sure you have news for us."
Fu hesitated for a moment, but then, seeing no hostility, she made her way across the room, her eyes lingering briefly on the others before sitting beside Karin. The seat was soft, almost too inviting, but Fu could feel the weight of Karin's stare as if it were dissecting her, searching for something. She quickly looked down, trying to focus on her hands, but it was clear the moment she had sat, Karin was mentally cataloging her.
Karui stood still, her bright, wild expressive eyes scanning the room. There was something about the quiet tension in the air that worried her, but she didn't let it show. Instead, she flashed a playful smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. "I see you all have some... interesting dynamics here," she remarked, crossing her arms.
Tayuya snorted from the side, eyes dancing with mischief. "You think so?" she asked, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "This family's got its... quirks. But I'm sure you'll learn to deal with it if you stay long enough."
Karui didn't falter under Tayuya's gaze. "You don't have to worry about me," she said with a wink, though the edge in her voice made it clear that she wasn't playing games.
Karin gave a small, almost imperceptible smile, appreciating the tension between them. "And I suspect," she said, turning her full attention to Karui, "that you have a story to tell as much as Fu. Come in and join us."
Karui met Karin's gaze, unblinking. "Yes, a very uninteresting story I am sure you've heard before," she replied, her voice steady, though there was a flash of challenge in her eyes.
Fu, sensing the subtle tension, shifted slightly on the couch, trying to make herself as unobtrusive as possible. She wasn't used to this kind of environment—one where every glance, every word seemed loaded with some unspoken weight.
Tayuya, clearly amused by the exchange, smirked and walked over to Fu, plopping down beside her on the couch. "Don't mind them," she said with a grin. "Karin is always playing this game. But it's all just words until someone gets their hands dirty. Then it's my turn."
Fu looked at Tayuya, still unsure of what to make of the situation. "I—I'm just here to help," she said softly, though there was a nervousness in her voice. She didn't know where to fit in this web of alliances and power plays. "I'll do whatever I can to make things better."
Tayuya's grin softened slightly, her eyes glinting with something unspoken. "Well, we'll see how long that 'help' lasts once you get in the middle of it all. But don't you worry, just keep close." Tayuya wrapped an arm around Fu's waist, pulling her close as if to claim her for her own.
Karin's gaze flickered to Tayuya, and then she looked back at Karui, weighing her next words carefully. "Your village is in ruins. Why are you here?" she said, her voice low and steady. "As a loyal shinobi, shouldn't you be heading back?"
Tayuya chuckled darkly, her voice rich with amusement. "You might want to watch your words," she added, her tone teasing yet laced with an underlying seriousness. "Karin can tell if you're lying or not. It's a gift of hers."
Karui tilted her head slightly, her eyes gleaming with a mixture of interest and caution. "I'm not here to lie to anyone," she said, her voice dripping with a self-assurance that was hard to ignore. "I know of the destruction of Kumogakure. There is nothing there for me now."
Karin's eyes flickered for the briefest moment, a calculating look crossing her features. "Really? And why is that?" she replied, leaning back into the couch with a languid grace. "I always thought that Kumogakure shinobi were among the most loyal in the five lands."
Fu looked between them, the weight of the conversation settling on her shoulders. She wasn't sure where she fit in, but she knew one thing: the room was filled with powerful, dangerous women. And each of them had their plans. The warmth of Tayuya pressing up against her was the only thing keeping her from running away once again.
Tayuya, watching Fu's uncertainty, leaned in closer. "Don't worry too much," she whispered, her voice low and hushed. "There's always a place for you here."
Karin smiled, but it wasn't a friendly smile. "Indeed," she agreed. "But everyone has a role here. And you'll find yours soon enough, Fu's past we know." She turned her eyes back to Karui. "You, on the other hand—why are you here?"
The room seemed to close in, the tension tightening, thick with unspoken challenges as all eyes turned to Karui, awaiting her response.
Naruto, sensing the tension in the room and the charged atmosphere, cleared his throat and stepped forward, breaking the silence that had settled over the group. His voice, carried an undeniable power, drawing all eyes to him.
"Alright, enough of this," he said, his tone light but commanding. "We've all had a long day, and this place could use a little more joy. Let's eat." He looked around, catching the eyes of everyone present, offering a reassuring smile. "Food should be ready soon. We need to relax for a bit."
Karin, already attuned to her husband's subtle ways of taking charge, stood up and called out to the cooks in the back of the kitchen. "Get the food ready. Everyone's hungry, and I'm sure we can all use some time to wind down." Her voice was sharp, yet there was a warmth in it that made it clear she was taking charge of the situation.
The tension in the room seemed to dissipate as the sound of clinking dishes and murmured orders from the kitchen as the smell of ramen filled the air. Fu's shoulders relaxed slightly, though she remained quiet, her thoughts swirling. She wasn't used to such a dynamic, but the presence of Naruto's calm assurance seemed to settle things.
Just as things were beginning to feel like they might return to some semblance of normalcy, the door to the apartment flew open with a loud bang, and in stormed Temari, her arms full with a small girl with the other children, all ten of them, all full of energy and excitement came running in screaming. The moment they entered, chaos erupted in the room.
The children ran amok, laughing and shouting as they tugged at their mother's clothing, demanding attention, their voices blending into a beautiful cacophony of youthful exuberance. Temari seemed unbothered by the chaos, smiling fondly as she wrangled her brood, trying to maintain some semblance of order.
Naruto grinned, his heart swelling with affection for his children. Without missing a beat, he waved his hand, and several clones materialized around the room, their appearance causing the children to squeal with delight. The clones immediately dropped to their knees, opening their arms wide as the children rushed to them, laughing as they were lifted off the ground and spun around in joyous play.
"Here we go," Naruto chuckled, watching the scene unfold with a smile. "That should keep them busy for a while." His eyes softened as he looked at the sea of children surrounding his clones. The room, once thick with tension, was now alive with the sound of happy, carefree laughter.
Karui watched the scene unfold, her gaze softening as she took in the sight of the family, united in warmth and chaos. It was something she hadn't seen before having lived alone, this was what a true sense of togetherness felt the way Naruto interacted with his children, how they all seemed to come together so effortlessly despite their differences, made Karui's heart tighten. It was the kind of family she had longed for, the kind of place she had always dreamed of. And for the first time since her arrival, she allowed herself to imagine a future where she, too, might find her place within it.
Fu's soft voice broke into Karui's thoughts. "Do you... do you think they'd accept me?" she asked quietly, glancing at the playful scene before them.
Karui turned to her, a faint smile touching her lips. "You're already part of it, Fu," she said, her voice reassuring. "You just need to find your place, like the rest of us." Fu with a bright smile joined the chaos on the floor soon becoming the center of attention once the children noticed she could make fairy-like winds sprout from her back.
But as the laughter continued Fu Joined the clones and kept the children entertained, Karui's mind wandered back to the larger question, the secret she had learned not so long ago. How could she tell them? How could she possibly explain that she was Uzumaki, that she carried the bloodline of their fallen village, and now had no true home left to return to?
With a yell from Tayuya, all the children came running. As they gathered around the dinner table, laughter and food flowed freely. Conversations shifted from the mundane to the absurd, covering everything from the children's antics to Naruto's latest endeavors. Karui listened, her heart growing lighter with each passing minute. For the first time in a long while, she allowed herself to imagine a future here.
Then, as she leaned back, her gaze briefly met Naruto's, and she realized that maybe this was it. Maybe this chaotic, beautiful family was where she had always belonged. The burdens of her secret felt a little easier to carry in a room full of people who had somehow found a way to love each other despite everything.
With a rush, Sakura entered the room, her sudden presence drawing the attention of everyone seated around the table. A slight smile graced her lips, but exhaustion and satisfaction weighed on her expression, hinting at the significance of the news she carried. Naruto, noticing her arrival, called out, urging her to join them at the table. There was something in her eyes that told him it was important.
"Sorry to interrupt," Sakura began, making her way to a seat between Tayuya and Temari. She looked around the table, her voice steady but tinged with relief. "I wanted to give you an update on Yugito's condition."
Naruto's face softened, and a hush fell over the room. Everyone turned their attention to her, their expressions a mix of curiosity and quiet support. Even Karui leaned in, sensing the gravity of the moment, her heart quickening.
"With Lady Tsunade's help," Sakura continued, "I was able to repair much of Yugito's chakra network. It's not quite what it used to be—she's lost about half of her original chakra reserves since the tailed beast was extracted." She paused, letting the weight of the words sink in, her gaze sweeping over the table. "But the good news is, Yugito will still be able to serve as a shinobi. Her skills, her knowledge—they won't go to waste."
Naruto exhaled deeply, relief flooding his features as he leaned back. "You're amazing, Sakura. Dattebayo!" he cheered, raising a fist.
Sakura's eyes softened, a rare smile lighting up her face as she held Naruto's gaze. "Yugito has a long road ahead of her, but she's resilient. And with the support of this family, I believe she'll find the strength she needs."
Karui's chest swelled with pride, knowing Yugito was a dear friend and ally. Her thoughts drifted to her own secret, the hidden part of her that longed for a place where she could truly belong. Watching this tight-knit group, Karui felt a spark of hope—perhaps it was time for her to finally share what she had discovered.
The room gradually came back to life with quiet conversations, a ripple of relief and gratitude spreading among them. Naruto raised his glass, voice brimming with warmth. "A toast to Sakura and Lady Tsunade—for making miracles happen."
Glasses clinked, laughter resumed, and Karui found herself swept up in the joy, her glass raised in a silent toast to new beginnings. As she glanced around at the faces that had somehow already begun to feel like home, she wondered if this was where she was meant to be. This strange, chaotic, beautiful family might just be the place she had always been searching for.
Sakura drove into her bowl of ramen but between bites, with noodles hanging from her lips, Sakura tried to speak. "S-So, what do you think of Karui's ann-... mmmph—" She paused, struggling to chew and get the words out at the same time. Bits of broth splashed as she hurriedly tried to swallow, making the children laugh at her messy attempt.
Tayuya rolled her eyes, setting her chopsticks down with a sigh. "What the hell are you trying to say, Sakura? Announcement? What's Karui done now?"
Karui shifted uneasily, feeling the weight of a dozen eyes on her. "Well... you see," she began, her voice almost too calm, "Sakura developed a test, and... she said I might be part Uzumaki."
For a moment, the room fell into a stunned silence, her words hanging heavily in the air. Karin's sharp voice soon cut through the tension, demanding answers. "You finished creating that test and didn't tell me?" The accusation in her tone was clear, her frustration evident from being left out of something so significant.
"I've been gone for months, remember? I've been working on it," Sakura replied with a hint of playfulness in her voice. "What did you think I was doing in my free time?"
Tayuya leaned forward, eyes narrowing with intensity. "Would you mind explaining what the hell you're talking about?" Though her voice was laced with irritation, the underlying excitement betrayed her true feelings. A quick test to confirm Uzumaki blood was a dream come true for her—a chance to grow and strengthen their clan.
Karin crossed her arms, eyes never leaving Sakura. "I asked her to develop a jutsu that could confirm if someone was truly an Uzumaki without relying on vague family histories or assumptions," she explained.
Sakura shrugged casually, still focused on her bowl of ramen. "Yes, it works," she said between enthusiastic slurps, the noodles hanging messily from her lips, "but I still need a blood sample from a confirmed Uzumaki to be absolutely sure."
"Prove it!" Tayuya demanded, her eyes gleaming with the fierce hope of finding lost kin—a way to grow their family.
Karui's heart pounded in her chest as all eyes turned back to her. This was it—the moment she had both feared and longed for. But seeing the eager faces around her, the fierce loyalty, the yearning for connection—maybe, just maybe, she had found her place among them after all.
Sakura finished her bowl with a triumphant gulp, beating Naruto to the bottom, then wiped her lips with her arm before standing up. "Alright, fine," she said, crossing her arms. "But I need some blood from one of you two." She pointed at Karin and Tayuya.
Tayuya jumped up immediately, grabbing a knife and holding out her arm. "Take as much as you need, now come on!" she urged, her voice filled with anticipation.
"I think you should test one of the children first to prove it works," Temari suggested, looking up from her seat with a knowing smile.
At once, ten small voices erupted into a chorus of "Me, me, pick me!" as the children rushed forward, eager to be part of what they clearly saw as a fun new game. They had been taught to play to win, and this was no exception.
"There's no need for all that," Sakura said, taking the knife from Tayuya. Using a precise chakra scalpel, she drew a small pool of blood from Tayuya's palm. She then picked a random small hand from the crowd and extracted a tiny droplet of blood, floating it into the air.
The lucky child squealed with delight at being chosen, waving her bloody finger triumphantly in the other children's faces. Sakura started her jutsu, explaining as she worked. "It's called Chakra Resonance Analysis. This jutsu measures the unique frequencies in the chakra of the blood sample. Uzumaki chakra has distinct properties that resonate differently from others."
Two small orbs of blood floated at eye level, one from Tayuya and one from the child. Sakura activated the jutsu, the orbs pulsating as they absorbed the chakra. Colors shifted within the spheres, casting patterns of light that danced across the room.
As the orb settled, it glowed with a deep blue light, filling the space with warmth like a comforting campfire. An inner organ-like shape formed within it, pulsing in sync with Tayuya's heartbeat.
"She's pureblood—or at least as pure as Tayuya," Sakura announced, her eyes scanning the room until she found the small girl whose blood she had tested.
"Me next, me next!" the children yelled, bouncing with excitement all thinking this was just another new game to play.
"Do Kazuki," Karin ordered, her voice sharp, earning a sharp look from Temari.
"Do you doubt me?" Temari challenged, her tone carrying a hint of menace.
Karin's voice was calm, but there was an undeniable edge to it—a quiet storm of confidence wrapped in cold purpose. "Trust is a luxury we can't afford," she said, each word deliberate like a blade honed sharp. Her gaze locked with Naruto's, and the room seemed to still around her as if the weight of her words were shifting the very air they breathed.
"Just do it," said Naruto breaking Karin's stare.
The blond boy held out his hand defiantly, daring Sakura to proceed. With a quick motion, she drew blood from his finger, gathering a bit more of Tayuya's blood for comparison. This time, the test took longer; the orb started glowing blue, then flickered with red as if the two colors were battling for dominance. The blue orb became streaked with red, creating a swirling effect.
The orb floated higher, expanding and contracting, eventually growing to the size of a child's head. It emitted a soft blue glow interspersed with lines of white and red shooting throughout, like lightning trapped within.
"I'd say... about 40 percent Uzumaki," Sakura concluded, her tone shifting to that clinical, detached voice she used when studying a new problem. "You must have some Uzumaki blood in your family tree—maybe a grandmother or great-grandmother."
Temari's grin widened, her bright white teeth on full display as she leaned around Sakura's hip to flash a challenging smile at Karin, who sat silently with her arms crossed, not uttering a word.
"Alright, enough of this," Naruto interjected, he was done with their games and had run out of patience. "Test Karui already so we can get back to the food."
Karui held out her hand, and this time, the test was less dramatic. The orb pulsed between blue and red before settling into a steady blue with a vivid red center. "Fifty percent Uzumaki," Sakura noted, her eyes narrowing as she examined the swirling colors. "Your father must've been a full-blooded Uzumaki—see these lines at the bottom?" she added, pointing to subtle details only a seasoned medic like her could notice.
Naruto, clearly relieved to be done with this distraction, dropped back into his seat, grabbing a fresh bowl of ramen. "Good, now let's eat," he declared with a grin.
But then, a soft voice cut through the buzz of conversation. "Can you test me?" Fu asked, stepping forward with her hand outstretched.
Sakura nodded, drawing a small amount of blood from Fu and adding Tayuya's for comparison. Almost immediately, the orb began to react wildly, flashing a spectrum of colors as it absorbed the mixed chakra.
The orb's glow intensified, flickering like a strobe light. Blue and red hues clashed violently, intertwining in a chaotic dance. Sparks flew as it shifted to green, then orange, a kaleidoscope of colors that dazzled the room.
Children's excited screams filled the air, turning this experiment into an impromptu light show. "Look, it's like fireworks!" one of the kids shouted, while others chanted, "More! More!"
The orb continued to expand, pulsating with strange energy. It spun faster, emitting streaks of purple and gold, as if the tailed beast within Fu was wrestling with Tayuya's Uzumaki bloodline. The lights cast shifting shadows across the walls, bathing the room in a surreal glow that held everyone's attention.
Finally, the orb trembled, letting out a sharp crack like glass under pressure. A ring of white light burst from its core, briefly enveloping the entire space. The orb settled into a vibrant, multi-layered pattern, each layer pulsating in sync with Fu's heartbeat.
Sakura's brow furrowed as she studied the shifting colors. "This is... unexpected," she murmured. "It looks like the tailed beast's chakra is fusing with the Uzumaki DNA, creating something entirely new."
Fu's eyes widened, curiosity and excitement flashing across her face. The children erupted into cheers, treating the result like the finale of a spectacular show. Tayuya and Karin exchanged a look, the implications of Fu's unique chakra mix stirring something unspoken between them. How would this fit within the overall plan?
"You sure are Uzumaki but something more," said Sakura with a puzzled look as she wondered what Fu's children if she had any would be like.
"Well," Naruto said, finally breaking the spell of silence. "Looks like we've got more family than we thought." He grinned, raising his bowl as if in a toast. "Now, for real this time—let's eat!"
Tayuya, wiping her hand clean, said loud enough for everyone to hear, "After the fall, it looks like the clan spread far and wide, fucking around to spread their seed. We need to start the search soon."
With laughter and chatter resuming only Karin knew what Tayuya really meant as the room slowly returned to its usual lively state, though the image of that swirling, defiant orb lingered in everyone's minds.
…..…..…..…..
The children had been tucked into bed, the hallways of the Uzumaki compound falling into a heavy silence as the last echoes of laughter faded. Naruto's footsteps were soft but purposeful as he followed Karin and Tayuya down the corridor, his face set in a grim line. The door to the master bedroom creaked open, and they stepped inside, Tayuya shooting Naruto a quick glance before moving off to the side.
As the door clicked shut behind him, Naruto slapped his hand against the wall, activating the soundproof seals with a flash of blue chakra. The familiar hum of the barrier settling into place only intensified the tension in the room.
Karin turned to face him, a subtle smirk playing on her lips, but there was a sharpness in her eyes. "Naruto, if you're going to yell, at least let us get comfortable first," she said, her voice dripping with amusement. She made her way to the plush chair near the window, sitting with the air of a queen, smoothing out her silk robes over her belly as if preparing to hear the grievances of her subjects.
Naruto's eyes were hard as steel, his voice cold and unyielding. He had heard the rumors and started asking around but hadn't believed them until tonight. "Enough games, Karin," he snapped, his gaze piercing straight through her veneer of confidence. "I've let you do things your way for too long, but this power play of yours ends tonight. What the hell are you trying to pull with the council and the village?"
Karin arched an eyebrow, unbothered by the intensity in his tone, thinking he was still only focused on being Hokage. She leaned back, crossing one leg over the other as if daring him to challenge her further. "I'm securing our future," she replied coolly. "Someone has to think ahead, Naruto. You're too busy saving the world to see what's happening right under your nose. The clan needs to be in control, not just surviving. If that means stepping on a few toes, so be it. We're too small to withstand another attack on our bloodline."
"Control?" Naruto's voice rose, a flash of anger flaring in his eyes. He was done being nice and wouldn't let her push him aside. "You mean manipulation. You're trying to take over the clan council and turn them into your puppets. That's not leadership, Karin; that's a goddamn coup!"
Tayuya, who had been moving around the room getting ready for bed, snorted but stayed silent, her eyes flicking between Naruto and Karin. She was clearly enjoying the spectacle but knew this wasn't her battle—yet. Inside the walls was her domain, and her love of the children would not be questioned, nor her acts to protect them.
Karin's smile never faltered. "You're naive if you think we can just be strong and noble and everyone will fall in line. The other clans are weak, letting civilians control the village, waiting for us to show weakness like them. I'm doing what needs to be done to keep the Uzumaki name feared and respected. We are destined to sit in the Red Chair; you know that as well as I do."
Naruto took a step closer, his fists clenched at his sides. "Feared? Or hated? There's a difference, and you're crossing it." His voice lowered to a dangerous whisper. "I won't let you turn this family into something it's not. We're not tyrants. The Red Chair was meant to save the village, not control it."
Karin's eyes flashed, her anger finally breaking through. "You don't understand, Naruto. You've never understood. You think love and kindness are enough, but power respects power. If we don't take control, someone else will. And they won't be as merciful. Peace and love are what destroyed our village, and I will not let that happen to our family again."
Before Naruto could respond, Tayuya finally spoke up, getting off the bed with a lazy stretch. "She's got a point," she said with a mocking grin. "The clan's growing. We need to be more than just a bunch of sentimental fools. We need to lead, not follow. You can be Hokage, and we'll back you from the shadows."
Naruto's gaze snapped to Tayuya, but there was less anger and more frustration in his eyes now. "And you think backing Karin's schemes is the answer? We're supposed to be better than that. I am better than that!" It was clear his anger was clouding his judgment.
Tayuya shrugged, unrepentant. "I'm backing the clan, Naruto. If Karin's plans give us an edge, then I'm all for it. But don't think for a second that I'm in this for her. My loyalty is to our bloodline, nothing more. The children must be protected until they can protect themselves."
There was a heavy silence, the air thick with the weight of unspoken words and unyielding wills. Naruto took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down. "This ends here," he said, his voice steady but filled with finality. "No more secret meetings. No more backroom deals. If we're going to lead, we do it together, openly, or not at all."
Karin's smirk faded, replaced by a thoughtful expression. For a moment, it looked like she might argue, but then she leaned forward, her eyes locking onto his. "Fine," she said softly, her tone suddenly serious, her hand moving on its own to pull at her hair—a nervous tic she rarely showed. "But know this, Naruto: the world we're facing isn't the same as the one you grew up in. With Kumogakure wiped off the map and Pain coming for you, if you want to play hero, that's fine. But don't get in my way when it comes to protecting this family."
Naruto met her gaze, unflinching. "I'm not asking for your loyalty, Karin. I'm demanding it. We're a family. We fight for each other, not against each other."
Tayuya rolled her eyes, stepping forward to break the tension. "Great, we're one big happy family again. Can we go to bed now? I've got better things to do than listen to you fight over nothing. While you were off being a Sage and fighting demigods, we had to deal with the village. There are still villages that hate you for what you contain, even if they hide it now. Karin did what she had to, so fucking get over it."
Naruto shot her a look but chose not to rise to the bait. "This isn't over," he said, turning back to Karin. "But for now, let's focus on what matters. We have new family members to welcome and a lot of work to do to prepare this village against Pain's attack."
Karin gave a slow, reluctant nod, her eyes narrowing slightly as if already planning her next move. "Alright, Naruto. I'll play by your rules, but if anyone turns on us, I will show them the same mercy they showed us."
With that, the room's tension slowly dissipated as they moved to get ready for bed, though the undercurrents of power and control remained, leaving a sense that this truce was only temporary. The Uzumaki family might have found a moment of peace, but the storm was far from over. The shadow of Pain hung over the village, and they all knew it would mean nothing if he was able to destroy Konohagakure with a wave of his hand.
…
Sorry no Lemon in this chapter, but maybe the next one, what surprised me was not one review or DM about removing Killer B from the story. You guys are cold ;-)