Episode Eleven
Main shrine
As everyone was chatting and laughing, Naruto began the cleanup in the kitchen when he was approached by Matatabi, who moved as silently as the kittens she leads. "Naruto, I need a word."
"Sure," Naruto said as he was working on the dishes, "what can I do for you?"
She smiled, moving to assist him. "Well, one of my favourite kittens reported a new threat landing in the port."
Naruto nods, awaiting her to continue, which she does: "Seems there is a snake looking to capture Shirin."
That caused Naruto to pause and let out a very threatening snarl, looking at her with his eyes instantly becoming a bright reddish-orange, "He what?"
Matatabi would never, ever tell a soul how terrifying and seductive she found Naruto in his moments of protectiveness, though she shelves that naughty auntie-nephew erotic novel for later as she responds to said nephew's words, "It seems that Orochimaru has landed in Lodinia port with a kunoichi named Guren. Their two objectives are: Find a medic, which we guess is Kabuto, and capture Shirin to take his body to fight you."
"I want his hide on my desk by midday, Mata. If not, then you can forget all your sushi bar privileges for the next year." Naruto states, causing the two-tailed cat to pale for a split second before getting murderous. "Right away," she says, before vanishing out the door. No way would she let that snake ruin her pampered lifestyle here in demon territory. She'll call in every kitten she has if she must.
Kurama bursts into the kitchen upon hearing the snarling growls of Naruto, who was pacing left and right, clearly worked up about something so much that his chakra was spiking chaotically, with cracks forming on the floor and ceiling. Oh boy. She hadn't seen him this pissed since... Well, ever.
Moving carefully, knowing an angry Kitsune isn't to be taken lightly, and not knowing what set him off, she navigates this minefield with maximum difficulty. She speaks slowly and softly, as his senses are likely heightened by his rage. "Naruto. Otouto? What's wrong with you?"
Naruto's slit orange eyes lock on those of the reds of Kurama, who was staring back at him with concern. For a solid ten seconds, nothing happens until he breaks the silence in a breath below a whisper so only her canine-level hearing could pick it up at this distance. Her eyes widen, and now she too is snarling up a storm.
Now, Shion, Shizuka, and Karin burst into the room to see the two absolutely livid kitsune snarling and pacing, their eyes glowing with their own power's fluctuations, which were affecting the surroundings. Shion approached the duo, and when they both snapped at her, her mere presence calmed them enough to prevent them from escalating further and slowly come to terms with the situation.
Taking several deep breaths, Naruto finally addresses them, or more accurately, Shizuka. "Shizuka, I need you to keep an eye on the kids alongside Yugito until further notice. Kurama will also remain here. Dress for full combat and keep your sword close. Am I clear?"
The absolute seriousness of his words and tone caused Shizuka to turn from loving wife and mother into the S-class Kunoichi who happened to be a mother, all too eager to protect her babies. Eyes sharper than any sword known to man, capable of cutting through even space itself, her voice colder than the void. "Who dared threaten our babies?"
"That rogue snake. Mata is hunting him; her entire clowder has been tracking him and his associates since they landed on our homeland." Naruto informs, looking to Shion. "I know the plan was for both of us to attend the talks out in the town centre, but I do not think that is wise. Thus, until I have confirmed his death, you will stay at my side at all times beyond the shrine. Am I clear?"
Shion nods firmly, clear worry on her face, but her love and faith in her husband were unmatched. He will protect her, and the others will protect the family. This is what they have prepared for, and no doubt, they will deal with it with the strength that made them into the legends the world knows them to be.
Naruto then looks at Karin, who stiffened under that intense gaze. "Karin, you and Honoka will remain with me and Shion. Your sensory abilities, paired with our combined chains, mean that even our own family couldn't break through that barrier of defense."
Karin nodded, understanding the thought process. As if they were defence, he was attack. The added benefit of her being able to warn Naruto of any trouble back here so they could return. "I understand."
They returned to the family room, where everyone looked back at the returning group. Yugito had never seen her brother this angry and focused, not even when he had saved her from those god tree resurrectors. Thus, she stood immediately, her squad matching her intensity as Naruto spoke without words to her.
The silent conversation between the two was unusual outside of combat, but it must be serious, and no doubt concerned the children.
When Yugito hissed, it was clear that she was not amused by the news. Naruto nodded with a growl, matched by both Kurama and Yui. Yugito then looked to Samui, "Samui, today, you will go with Naruto in my stead."
This surprised everyone, including both Naruto and Samui. Naruto spoke up, "I thought I said," Yugito glared at her brother, silencing him, "She stays here, Naruto. No arguments."
He growls at her, "Since when..."
She hissed back with such intensity; none had seen them genuinely argue like this. His growling rivalled her groans as they stared one another down, everyone's gaze flowing from one to the other as it continued for a solid half-minute.
Naruto's snarling was halted by Shion, who placed her hands on his arm, drawing his attention to her gentle smile, speaking softly to try and assuage his clear concern. "It is for the best. I will be safe here with the children. Go, be the leader of our people. The leader our people are proud to be under."
It took a moment, before he slowly stood up and nodded hesitantly, taking another deep calming breath, looking back at his sister, "Fine. Shion stays, and Samui is with me. The rest are on full alert. I will warn the Hyuga to stay clear of the shrine unless I accompany them directly."
The cross-armed, still glaring Kumo Jonin known as Yugito Nii, nods once firmly, not letting up and still rather high-strung having never had such an argument with her brother like that. She needed to calm down too, just as he clearly was trying to. "Okay. I will call upon my Hellcats too. Not many, as no doubt Mata is leading the charge."
Naruto nods before looking to the kids, who were all sitting silently, clear worry and concern on their faces. Matsuri and Kalia were equally concerned, though Gaara and Kankuro looked ready to kill something. Temari was a mix of the two. Naruto speaks up. "Mari, stay here with the others. Kankuro should be better as an escort for Gaara today. None of the kids are permitted to leave the grounds of the main shrine at any cost."
Termari nods, knowing Naruto would only directly order her to do something if it was of sufficient importance. She wasn't going to argue with him now. Gaara got up, as did Kankuro, recognizing the cue to leave. Samui and Honoka also got up and headed over to the group, though Yakumo raised her hand, having never seen this side of Naruto before. Is this the man Naruto had become in his time away? Able to order around Jonin and Kage from other villages without questions or backtalk?
Naruto sees his, for lack of a better term, childhood friend with her hand up, nods to her, and allows Yakumo to speak. "Umm... I am guessing that something is wrong, yes?" And upon his nod, she continued, "Is there anything we can do to help? We aren't really frontline fighters, support at best, but our genjutsu is pretty..."
Kurama takes this: "Yes, in fact, I shall be able to utilize your skills here and get a measure of them at the same time. Worry not; we will all have our part to play."
Yakumo and Nila both nodded, not putting voice to the fact that this commanding Naruto, in absolute control of the family's defense, was slightly more intense than before.
Nila knew of her friend's crush on the boy before he left, so no doubt those budding feelings are reasserting themselves at his grown-up form. Even she will admit that she herself would definitely not say no to the blond shinobi.
Naruto leads his party out of the main building, after gearing up for war, obviously, and proceeds to the outhouse to inform the Hyuga of the changes.
Guest House; Hyuga Residence
The door was answered by Hanabi, who was surprised at the group before her. "Is there a problem, Regent?"
Naruto's response was swift and uncompromising: "Not in so many words. I must speak with your clansmen in attendance immediately. I do not care if they are sleeping or showering." As he steps in, his group is at his side.
It took ten minutes to gather them all together, and it was clear that neither Naruto nor his group were amused or happy by that fact.
It was also clear to them that they were not here for a social call, as they were in their respective nations' uniforms with headbands somewhere on their persons. Despite only being a chunin for Kumo, Samui had a dark purple Jonin flak jacket that pressed her sizeable bust flush and supported it far better than her chunin vest would. She also had a demon headband that suggested she was acting as Demon Jonin in place of Kumo. Same with both Honoka and Karin.
Kankuro had forgone his usual headgear and had a Suna headband on his forearm, and a standard Suna flak jacket atop a dark black jumpsuit. Gaara had his regular red coat and gourd.
Though, this was a first for them seeing Naruto in his standard Demon Jonin attire. Black boots leading into Anbu style cargo trousers, a belt with the Land of Demon shinobi haiatete acting as the belt buckle. A black long sleeve undershirt, though you could see the underlying mesh at certain points as the padded armour blocked the rest. His dark purple Flak jacket had many pockets loaded with scrolls, no doubt his sealing supplies, and his long Katana was on his back.
Naruto spoke up, breaking the room's silence. "I was informed of a threat that arrived last night in the northern port town of Lodinia."
That certainly drew everyone's full attention to him, even more so than before. He continued, "As such, until our forces hunting them down report their destruction and present the bodies as proof, I am locking down the shrine grounds and placing the area under lockdown. You are not permitted to travel anywhere without a kitsune or Hellcat guard. Anyone caught beyond this house without one will be assumed hostile and dealt with accordingly. This is not up for debate nor is it negotiable."
The seriousness of his expression and words got through to even the most arrogant of the Hyuga party. Hiashi, speaking for the group, said, "I see. Is there anything that we can do to assist?"
"No," Naruto's swift response, looking at the man. "We have it in hand, and as our invited guests, your safety is assured, as well as my own family. I have spoken with our security forces, and both a Kitsune and a nekomata will be assigned to your residence for early warning and protection."
Hiashi nods in understanding. "What of our meeting later today? The lunch...?"
Naruto nods. "It will still be happening. Kugo, my second strongest Hunter, will be here to escort you to the Main Building when we are ready to receive you. He will also be the guard for this guest house."
Hinata speaking next, "What about the, you called them nekomata, yes?"
Naruto nods, "Nekomata, or Hellcat, they don't mind either title. I'm not in command of them, but I have no doubt that Yugito, their leader, will dispatch one of equal strength. They will likely remain inside the house, so you're unlikely to spot a cat roaming the halls at some point. Please don't be alarmed."
Hinata nods but feels she has to ask, "What of those already in the shrine? Will,"
"None of your concern," Naruto cut off, not in the mood for her antics right now. "Though, if you wish to come to town for the meetings there, we are heading out now, so please get ready immediately. We will be out until lunchtime."
Hiashi nods, standing along with Hinata and Hanabi, along with his father, all wanting to try and make headway before their meeting at lunch. Hiashi speaks for the now standing group, "We shall prepare ourselves immediately."
It took a surprisingly short five minutes before the foursome returned and headed out with the demon shinobi group.
Upon their exit, they found Kugo already on station, standing guard in his full combat form, jacket and all. Though, surprisingly, a Tanuki of similar size was opposite him, named Tama, wearing a similar jacket with the Suna insignia.
Naruto glanced at Gaara, catching his subtle smirk and nod, earning a nod from the blond, before he turned to his subordinate, speaking in fox tongue, "Kugo. I leave this to you."
Kugo nods firmly, his eyes determined. "We shall not fail you, leader."
Naruto and Gaara nodded in agreement, with the latter looking at the Tanuki, who held her head high proudly. "I am counting on you, Tama."
She nods just as firmly as her kitsune counterpart, "Our pride will not allow for failure."
Hiashi was impressed and assured of the clan's safety. He had seen the reports from the battle in the Land of Forest, heard the recounting from his daughters of the Kitsune's battles in Fang and southern Wind Country. Having the second strongest, supported by the Tanuki, was an honour and a privilege that many haven't had the courtesy of having.
Oni no Kuni - Town
Arriving at the town, the signs of the festivities were clear as day, with the hustle and bustle in full effect. The people were out in force, searching for deals and enjoying the early bird sales available to them.
Naruto's presence did not go unnoticed but also barely dented the atmosphere, as many smiled and waved at him and his group, who returned the warm welcome from all around.
It had become silently acknowledged by the people that the two redheads were part of the Regent's family, though it was also known to keep that on the down low. Thus, they got waves too and smiled and waved back. No words needed beyond that.
The first stop was the Mist Consulate, which was on the way to the main entrance of the docks. Mei and her team would likely want to meet the King of Moon, so meeting them beforehand was a must to show their united and mutual understanding towards their joint ally.
Upon their arrival, the Mist shinobi saluted them, and in less than a minute, Mei, Utakata, and Chojuro arrived with smiles. Mei smiled at Naruto and his party but also noticed their guarded posture under the diplomatic smiles. "Oh, what a party, Naruto? Even in your shinobi gear, you look positively charming."
Naruto shook his head at her antics, offering a soft chuckle. "Speak for yourself, Lady Mizukage. You are as beautiful as you are deadly, regardless of the occasion. I figured that, as King Michiru and his son are arriving in a little while, you would want to join us in greeting them."
Mei smiled at the forethought and nodded firmly. "My, what a brilliant thing to do for us," she noticed that every other member of the alliance was represented, and so she was the missing part. Though the Hyuga was present, no doubt Naruto was throwing them a bone as state guests, so she passed over that for now and responded. "Yes. That does sound grand. Shall we proceed then?"
The group proceeded together through the streets, occasionally seeing the samurai on patrol keeping the peace, offering nods to the passing envoy, who nodded back. Hiashi and his father noticed the star-filled eyes of the people directed at them as well as the group as a whole and stiffened their backs and held their heads a bit higher. Yes. This was a wise choice indeed, aligning themselves with the head family of this nation.
This group had been spotted by Kakashi and Sakura when they were at the Mist consulate and had rushed back to the hotel beside the Sand building. Thus, the leaf team, consisting of Tsunade, Kakashi, Yugao, Hana, Shikamaru, and Sakura, managed to catch them waiting at the northern gate.
Karin had informed Naruto of their approach, having memorized their signatures from the previous night's meeting, and he would have groaned had he not been in diplomacy mode. He didn't want to deal with them right now, but he was required to as they approached. He caught the surprise at his shinobi outfit, far different than before, as he looked more like a Jonin ready for war with his Jonin vest, a hitai-ite belt buckle, long katana on his back, twin kunai pouches, and discreetly guarded posture.
Looking back at them, he smiled diplomatically, "Lady Hokage, what brings you out this way?"
His voice snapped them out of their observations of his gear. Tsunade responded, noticing the title use, thus, official mode, "Ah, Regent. I had heard you and your party were heading this direction and was curious as to whether there was a situation developing or a meeting going on?"
Naruto nodded, noticing the group's possible combat capabilities were well thought out. Tsunade, Sakura, and Hana could be both support or frontline, Kakashi and Yugao were vanguards with Shikamaru in the middle for analysis. However, they also made a decent diplomatic group with the Hokage and two clan heirs and guards.
Naruto spoke up after that thought, informing them of his group's intent. "Well, I had been informed that King Michiru was arriving momentarily, so we are here to greet him and his party. As allies, Lady Mizukage and Lord Kazekage are present. As guests of the state, Lord Hyuga has been offered the right to accompany me, and he has chosen to bring his counsel along."
Tsunade nods once in understanding. Though, as she overlooks Naruto's group, she spots the two redheads. Karin, the Uzumaki from last night, whom she was familiar with, but the second was the one from Shikamaru's report on the Raid in Wave. Red hair, paired with black hair, short in stature, and petite in frame.
She blinked, once then twice, before realizing that even with their proximity and visually seeing her, she couldn't sense her presence nor her chakra. Her confusion flashed across her face briefly, but she wasn't the only one, as all her shinobi were experiencing the same thing. Naruto's group noticed this and were confused, except for the Uzumaki, who smirked and chuckled, while Karin turned her back to avoid bursting out in laughter.
Gaara and Mei looked to their fire counterpart, and voiced their confusion. Mei asked, "What's wrong? You all look rather confused right now."
Tsunade looks at Mei, taking note of the amusement in the Uzumaki's posture, but voices her confusion, "Umm, we can't sense," she pauses before looking back at Naruto and the mystery redhead, who looks at Naruto. He sighs, before introducing his clanswoman, "Lady Hokage, Leaf Contingent. Allow me to officially introduce my clanswoman, who was at the battle of Wave. Honoka Uzumaki."
Honoka bowed her head slightly, "Nice to meet you."
Tsunade nods back, "Likewise. Though, how come I can't sense you? Your presence is..."
"Well, I can't tell you that, or certain parties would no doubt dispatch shinobi here to get me again." Honoka informed, earning raised brows from the Leaf team. Shikamaru put the pieces together the fastest and sighed hard again, now understanding why certain parties had asked to describe her. The Nara spoke lowly, "Danzo, right?"
The three Uzumaki nodded at his correct deduction, and Tsunade pinched her nose in irritation, now seeing the same connection as her Nara subordinate. The reason he was interested in the description was that this Honoka had somehow been found by Root, and she escaped, stumbling upon Naruto, who has been protecting her since. Damn it. Now it makes sense why Root had moved so swiftly into the country. To try and recover her for whatever reason, and to make a beachhead for further exploitation.
The others present all narrowed their eyes at this information. It had already been shared among the Demon forces and their allies that Danzo was the head of the blank-masked ANBU known as Root, or the Foundation in public. Thus, if he was interested in the Uzumaki, it couldn't be good. Even more so, as Naruto, a key member of the alliance, was a member of that particular, near-extinct clan. Both Mei and Gaara made mental notes to increase the defense of Demon, as no doubt Root would try to gather the last known three under its control somehow.
The Hyuga also made a note about this. Perhaps if they could provide some assistance to either the Uzumaki clan or Danzo, then they could benefit from it regardless of which side things fall. Well, the old man thought that. The other three were clearly thinking of defending one of their fellow original five members.
The elders were elated to find out about that particular fact, that the Hyuga were part of the Original Five clans, one of which was already extinct, with the other three soon to follow, making them the only ones left of such a mighty lineage. The last of the Sage's lineage. A title they will soon be able to wear with pride. It will only add to their prestige.
It was then that Karin jolted upright, stiff as a board, wide-eyed as she looked at Naruto, who noticed the tension and narrowed his eyes, asking her. "What is it?"
This caught everyone else's attention, and many assumed combat was imminent, and they were certainly not wrong. Karin looked to Naruto and explained, "The approaching caravan has a particular kunoichi I know works for the snake sannin. A few other signatures are also shinobi but are suppressing their chakra to that of civilians."
Naruto's eyes had hardened as he looked down to see the Land of Moon convoy approaching, as extravagant as always, and a perfect cover. Figured. He glanced over at both Mei and Gaara, who nodded to him in return, understanding his intentions. As he grabbed the handle of his sword, he spoke aloud, "Lady Hokage."
This grabbed the woman's attention. Her shinobi had also noticed the shift to combat stances and were preparing the best they could. However, they were unsure what to expect. Tsunade voiced her response, also preparing to fight. "Yes, Regent?"
Naruto glanced back over his shoulder with all the seriousness a seasoned wartime shinobi could possess. "It seems that your old teammate, and still rogue shinobi, is attempting to crash this momentous celebration. His subordinates are intermixed with the approaching convoy. What will you do?"
The Leaf team realized who he was referring to and naturally grew just as tense as the others. With their Hokage actually growling lowly, "I see. Then, we shall move to assist you. If you would allow us to?"
"Yugao, up front with me and Chojuro. Kakashi, aid Mei with ranged attacks. Hana and Utakata, any stragglers feel free to maul or melt them. Kankuro and Shikamaru, watch our backs. Tsunade and Hiashi, follow after us." Naruto instructs swiftly, surprising the Leaf team briefly, seeing how this was a surprisingly effective team, according to the Nara who was the fastest to collaborate with his suggestions.
Sakura asked meekly, "What about me?"
"Pinky, stick with Hanabi, Hinata, under Samui's protection. I don't have time to figure out your three's combat abilities." Naruto reports as the caravan approaches its final stretch. "Remember, hold off until Gaara gets the civilians and innocents clear. Sharingan and Byakugan should be safe to use."
Immediately, the Hyuga's Byakugan flares to life, spotting the same thing Karin noticed. Kakashi lifts his headband as he stands beside the Mizukage. Naruto steps forward, blade drawn, alongside his brother of the blade, Chojuro, and his former guardian, Yugao, who is elated at being able to fight alongside her former charge and son of her late sensei.
Before long, Naruto flared his chakra, and the drivers stopped immediately as he led the charge forward, with the vanguards following in his wake. Though they all felt the thin layer of sand moving past them, it took them Leaf members by surprise. However, the hidden Sound Shinobi among the group reacted immediately, leaping clear of the opening slashes and cuts.
Hiashi catches the first take-down, his thirty-two palm technique was swift in its execution. A sound wave filled the air, sliced through by Naruto, who was far too used to that basic technique, thus his wind neutralized the wide-area attack.
Perfectly timed, as if rehersed, as both Yugao and Chōjūro appear from his wake, cutting through the two chunins at his front. All three blast forward, though a wall of crystals blocks them, forcing them to jump back.
However, Tsunade appeared and with a single punch, cracks apparing across its face from the impact. A sonic wave erupted from the point of contact, and Kakashi appeared from nowhere, lightning blade in hand, punching through it with little effort, clearing the path that all five charge through.
The enemy's response was several large shards of crystals flying towards them all, intercepted by blasts of lava, a perfect interception, allowing the now six vanguard's to continue their engagement.
On either side of the caravan, Hana's partners brought down the runners, and bubbles captured or melted those attempting to slip away.
Back on the frontline, Hiashi ducked beneath a metal gauntlet that let out a high-pitched whistle, but noting the chakra produced, he leaped back, clear of it. Though as he does, Chojuro appears, cutting through the Jonin in passing, leaping off to clash with another. Finally, Guren takes the field directly, her own curse-mark shinobi charging forward, ordering. "Cover our retreat!"
"Not happening!" She heard a new voice say, finding herself frozen. Unbeknownst to her, a certain Nara had snuck up and captured her with his shadow. Though she couldn't see where he was, she launched an omnidirectional attack, forcing his retreat and breaking of the tether.
Taking a deep breath, regaining her mobility, Guren watches as Naruto slices through two of the curse-mark shinobi. Yugao appears, cutting off one's arm, before Chojuro lands a hammer blow to finish it. Kakashi uses the Raikiri to pierce the chest of the final one. Glaring, Guren turns back to find four puppets blocking her path, but even more worrying are the six large, lion-like cats hissing beyond them.
A quick glance around shows that the Hokage and a Hyuga is on her right, a mist shinobi is at her left, Mizkage too, the demon brat is flanked by the other two swordsmen, and on the ahead, Nara is flanked by the Kazekage and a redhead she does not recognize, at her back. She is surrounded.
Before she could finish molding chakra for her escape, chains erupted from the ground, wrapping her up and shutting down her escape. Recognizing the technique, she glared at the demon fox brat stepping forward, his own chains peeling out from his back, "Guren of Sound, huh? Thought you'd be tougher."
Guren growls, responding through gritted teeth, "Naruto Uzumaki, fox brat. You certainly live up to your reputation. You killed all my shinobi without remorse. Though, I must ask. How did…?"
"Not important," Naruto waved that off, as he retrieved a seal from one of his vest's front pockets, smiling coldly. Guren would later swear that the shinigami was at his back upon seeing it, cold sweat running down her neck as he spoke, "Relax. You won't feel a thing. Probably."
Guren's world went black as she lost consciousness.
With the excitement over, the Leaf team was surprised when more shinobi, all wearing what they suspected were demon hitai-ite, arrive to assme control of the situation. The symbol was rather simple, an equilateral triangle with lines from each corner meeting in the centre. It must mean something.
Naruto gave them their orders to clean up the captured and clean up before leading the guests back to the front. Shikamaru fell into step with him, Karin on the other side, the shadow user speaking up, "Naruto. That was a great strategy for an on-the-spot call like that. How did you think of it?"
Naruto glanced at the Nara, before explaining as if it were obvious, "Well, I know my own people's strength and fighting style, and I have a general idea of you all. I served under Mei during the civil war, fought against Yugao, so they are both self-explanatory. Karin and Honoka are my clansmen, so I know how they think, and they know how I'd move accordingly."
Shikamaru glances beyond the blond to the redhead, who nods firmly and adjusts her glasses. Naruto continues, "Kakashi prefers abrupt surgical strikes with ninjutsu. Hiashi is a fully trained Hyuga like Neji, just faster with better decision-making as he leads a clan and is a veteran of war. Hana, as an Inuzuka, is perfect for running down opponents. Just pair those similarities, so if the plan has to change, those familiar with me can guide those not."
He shrugged after that, and Shikamaru nodded, "So you left those you couldn't pair up behind, Hinata and the other Hyuga, Sakura and that other demon shinobi."
Naruto nods, though he knows Samui's strengths, he simply chose not to field her as she would try too hard to impress him somehow, much like Hinata would have. That kind of attitude makes for a dangerous, close-in battle among civilians and combatants, even more so with loose cannons running amok. Yes. He feels like a hypocrite thinking like that.
Tsunade and Kakashi were both impressed by his deductions and reasoning. Yugao was elated at her sensei's son's leadership capabilities. It was now a lot more believable than ever that the knucklehead had grown into a true leader of a country.
Michiru bellowed excitedly, "Naruto! You are a hero once more!"
Naruto sighed, slumping his shoulders briefly, annoyed by his antics. "Yeah-yeah. Not to worry about that all." Straightening up, he reengaged his diplomatic side. "I am glad you are unharmed, your highness."
Michiru nodded with a smile, "Yeah. Thanks to you again. You two, Chojuro. Thank you both."
Both swordsmen nod, Chojuro speaking up. "It is fine, your highness."
The no longer so rotund man nods as he shakes both their hands with his own, before noticing the group at large. "Oh, such a welcoming committee. I am touched."
Naruto nods firmly, "Yes, allow me to introduce." He proceeds to introduce each member of his group with perfect precision and in order of importance to him directly. Not that anyone but Michiru knew. When he got to the Leaf team, "And then, we have the Hidden Leaf Contingent. Here to smooth over our troubled relations at current."
Naruto, Karin, the Hyuga, and the leaf Jonin caught the suppressed snort from Michiru, covered up professionally, even by shinobi standards, with a cough. "I see. It should be interesting throughout the talks no doubt hosted tomorrow in the shrine, no?"
Naruto shook his head. "Not holding it at the shrine, but more than likely at the Suna consulate. The main ballroom is far more accommodating."
Michiru's raised brow alerted the Leaf contingent that he was not convinced and suspected that it was either a lie or at the very least not the truth. Naruto, however, maintained the smile, and the King of Moon eventually nodded, "Very well. Can I assume that my private estate is ready for us?"
"It is," Naruto confirmed, nodding once. "As the Hyuga are using our guest house this time around, I ensured that it was up to scratch personally."
The king smiled broadly, nodding repeatedly, "Very well. Can we assume an escort?"
Naruto nods once. "Of course, we can discuss that trade deal, as it is clear that you want some of our tulips for the upcoming event, no?"
Michiru chuckled nervously, scratching his head, "Ah, yeah. You knew that, huh?"
"You weren't exactly discreet," Naruto deadpans.
Main Shrine
Yugito entered the kitchen to find Temari preparing a mug of coffee, which earned a chuckle from the Kumo Jonin, "already tired, huh?"
Temari nods, yawning lightly, "I haven't quite woken up fully yet. So, what brings you here?"
Yugito grabs a mug for herself, "the same actually," chuckling at that fact. The two fall into a companionable silence. As Yugito leans against the unused hob, she spots the Uzumaki coffee leftover from the morning on the central counter. It brings her brother figure to mind, and the Kumo kunoichi asks, "Say, Temari..."
Temari looked to her fellow blond, Yugito, and continued, "Remember last night, Naru spoke about his clan and stuff. About how they've been forgotten."
Temari nods with a half smile, "Yeah, he was so defeated," she sighs at that, looking back at the kettle yet to boil. "I overheard Honoka yesterday. She was really upset that they are the last."
Yugito sighed at that, nodding. "I know Naru said he's accepted it, but I know it's upsetting him too. It's the first time I've seen him not fight for it," she shrugged lazily. "He's resigned to accept it. Kinda impossible to restart a clan with only three people."
Temari snorted, looking to her, "You mean like us Sabaku are attempting to?"
Yugito blinked at that, unaware of that fact. Temari smiled softly, nodding, "My brothers and I were the last Sabaku remaining," she sighed, looking back at the pot. "It was a surprise when Gaara got a partner. Married and even has children now. None thought he'd pull that off. Kankuro was more likely, but everyone thought it'd be me to continue the family legacy."
"How'd things turn out the opposite?" Yugito asks. Temari sighs, shrugs, and then looks at her Kumo counterpart with a half-smile. "Nothing too complicated. All the good ones are taken, or too scared of my brothers or my name. Also doesn't help that my best friend is Naru, leader of the alliance of three of the five great villages."
Yugito chuckled at that, nodding. "I could see how that could be rather intimidating to most."
Temari nods once, noticing the pot is almost there, so looks to the cat summoner and asks, "What about you? Surely you'd have…"
Yugito snorted at that, shaking her head. "I am considered the little sister of both the eight-tails, the perfect jinchuriki of Kumo. The Raikage, and my brother happens to lead one of the most powerful alliances of shinobi in the elemental nations."
Temari chuckled as she took the kettle, turning off the hob, "Same boat."
"Same boat," Yugito confirms as they watch the Suna princess pour out their drinks. An intrusive thought makes itself known, and Yugito voices it without conscious thought: "What about Naru? As a partner?"
It took a full ten seconds before they both froze, staring at their drinks. Temari looked to Yugito rather mechanically and slowly pulled out one of the privacy tags Naruto had given her. She rarely used it, so she placed it gently on the island counter and activated it.
Temari waited a full thirty seconds before asking carefully, "Are you being serious right now?"
Yugito inspects the small barrier briefly while maintaining eye contact. She speaks lowly, beneath a breath and not allowing her thoughts to form, "Maybe. Depends on how strong this barrier is."
"Naru made it for me," Temari informs, and Yugito nods, understanding that level of verification. It was solid. Unbreakable.
Yugito takes a breath. "It's not like I haven't thought about it. Not that I allowed myself to dwell on it, though. My head isn't exactly a sanctuary."
Temari nods slowly, understanding that, "I see. Same boat again, then."
Yugito slowly nods, sipping her coffee, eye contact maintained as the intensity remained steady, though she continued, "He is fun and respectful."
Temari nods, continuing the trail of thought aloud, "Great with kids, treats me well too."
Yugito nods, following up, "He's strong yet kind."
Temari nods, proceeding with, "Let me be me, and bounce off my own quirks with his own."
Yugito nods, sighing softly before saying, "matching my energy, and upping it."
Temari grins before nodding, "He's a real tease, but never takes it too far."
Yugito giggled at that, nodding frantically. "His body is to die for. Chiselled perfection."
Temari blushed rather prettily, chuckling nervously, "He's warm and cozy. Those strong arms are heavenly."
Yugito matches the blush, gulping hard, "I know. I had the privilege of feeling them when he rescued me."
Temari grins, sultrily intent growing, "Our missions are always fun because he always pampers me. He treats me like a princess, and he's so cute. He does this thing where whenever I seem cold, his jacket is always placed over me. Or if in his fox form, his tails."
Yugito nearly squealed, but managed to keep it largely contained. "Man, I wish I were so lucky."
Temari allowed herself to live in that moment for a few seconds before sighing deeply, shaking her head to return to reality, "He's loyal though."
Yugito nods grimly, knowing that, and matches her Suna counterpart, "Yeah. He'll turn us down if we move on him."
Temari nods, as a new thought hits her: "We'd have to convince Shizuka."
Yugito snorted at that, sipping her coffee afterward, causing Temari to nod in agreement. After sipping her own coffee, Temari continued, "Maybe going through Shion?"
Yugito muddled on that for a moment, before nodding, "taking a zero percent to maybe five percent," head shifting to the left, "on a good day."
"Any other good men?" Temari comments with a raised brow, and Yugito frowns and shakes her head in the negative, offering back, "You?"
Temari shrugged, "I did plan on that Nara from the Leaf. He's smart, not too bad on the eyes, and a strategic genius who could keep me entertained."
Yugito raised a brow and asked, "What happened?"
Another shrug from the Suna princess. "Abandoned Naru. Suna then cut ties with the Leaf. Stopped being an available option."
Yugito smirks, "So, if this deal goes through?"
Temari offered a familiar shrug. "Dunno, at this point, I think I'm kinda hung up on Naru."
Yugito lost her smirk, sighed hard, and nodded. "We aren't the only ones either."
Temari's chuckle was hollow. She shook her head, "You've noticed it too, huh?"
Yugito snorted, "Kinda hard to miss."
"Honoka, Yakumo, Kiyota, that Hyuga..." Temari listed off, and Yugito nodded before adding, "Relai from Mist, that Yuki from Naruto's story as a Hunter of the Mist."
Temari nods. "Right. I bet there are a few more."
Yugito nods, swallowing thickly. "I think Samui is pining for him. Mata might too."
Temari shakes her head in disbelief. "Shizuka is one damn lucky woman. Shion too."
Yugito nods and sighs deeply, looking around the kitchen, then down at the seal, which is still glowing to show its active state. "We really need to find suitable men before we do something we'll regret, right?"
Temari nods mournfully, "We do. Naruto is way too supportive for our own good."
Oni no Kuni – King Michiru's Holiday Villa
Within the elegant, castle-like western structure known as Moonstone Villa, Naruto's group, the Leaf Contingent, and the Hyuga delegation sat. All were seated in the comfortable, fireplace-warmed lounge, enjoying a beautiful view of the forests beyond the town, as it overlooked the northeastern forests, being on the edge of town.
Utakata slipped away at some point, no doubt another whim of his. None paid it much thought. That is just who he was.
The many servants who traveled with the King and Prince were already hard at work, and the guests were all gathered in the room. The finest tea and snacks were presented as Michiru sat at the end with a cup of tea. Naruto was on his direct left, and Samui stood behind him, acting as his direct guard. Karin sat beside him, and Gaara sat at the other end, with Kankuro acting as a guard behind him.
Mei faced Naruto, sittng opposite, Chojuro at her back, Hiashi beside her, Tsunade next to him. Her shinobi were scattered around the room, Yugao directly behind the kage, Kakashi leaning against the wall behind her, Shikamaru at the bar with his own tea, Sakura and the Hyuga sisters with him. None of them noticed Honoka sitting a seat over from the Nara.
With everyone settled, Michiru spoke up, "So, Naruto. I know today is the first day, but I have to ask, why are you greeting me directly?"
Naruto sips his tea, giving him the perfect amount of time to contemplate his answer, before speaking up, "Well, I have little doubt that you have heard the rumors regarding my activities as of late."
No one missed the glance Michiru took towards the Hokage, who had to put on a blank face to escape the embarrassment that her village was facing. Though the king answered, "Yes. Many of our trade partners have brought it to my attention."
Naruto nodded, expecting as such, so he continued, "Due to that, and the actions of our allies hiding my activities from the Land of Fire, the Leaf was unaware of the consequences of their actions. Thus, their presence here."
Michiru nods, understanding that the Leaf is probably in a bad way right now, as their actions thus far have not been taken well by the other small nations trying to capture him in the neutral nation of Wave. Going so far as to start a fight in the port among civilians. "I see. So, what is it that you want from me this time?"
Naruto shakes his head before looking to the Hokage, who catches his gaze briefly, then breaks away, returning his gaze to the King. He shrugs, "That, my friend, is up to both of you. The last thing I want is to have to worry about people coming for my people when out on missions. Surely, you'd also prefer to increase your clientele too."
The underlying message was not lost on the king: Naruto was neither facilitating nor endorsing the isolation or forgiveness of the Land of Fire, but rather did not want to give them a reason to continue pursuing him. He wants peace so that he and his allies can continue to fight the good fight.
Mei takes this moment to speak up. "Although I agree with the sentiment presented by the Regent," all eyes fall on the Water Shadow. "I also think that this decision is not one to take lightly. After all, we have numerous reports of attempted forgery, aggravated assault, attempted abductions of minors and civilians, to name a few."
Tsunade was thankful she kept her poker face on, but the other leaf shinobi looked nervous. Those charges were not wrongly placed; they had done all of that, with the proof being their own bingo book. Why hasn't the council gotten rid of it yet?
Shikamaru mimed "troublesome," taking a sip as this was growing into an increasingly steep upward battle. Looking back at the leaders of this country, the Hidden Mist, and the largest tourist destination in the Elemental Nations.
Michiru nods to confirm that, "That is true. Even I have heard about the altercation in the Land of Wave. It is said that it was only thanks to Naruto's actions that no civilians were harmed," he looks to the blonde at his side, nodding in respect. "I thank you for that."
Naruto did not respond verbally, nodding once. The large man turned to the Hokage, addressing her, "What do you have to say about these matters?"
Tsunade nods, sighing as she lowers her cup, using the same tactic Naruto had used not long ago. Composing herself, she says, "I will not hesitate to say that we were in the wrong there. From the reports from my own shinobi, the primary report shared with my council and me, from Jonin Shikamaru Nara, who I have brought with me today, did suggest that Naruto did indeed fight defensively until the civilians were clear. That he focused on defending against us, up until his family was directly threatened."
All could see that she was swallowing many hard lumps in admitting that. Naruto caught the smothering of a smirk from Mei, as she no doubt had caught his discreet observations on her or suspected it. A quick glance at his side, past Karin, showed Gaara's imperceptible smirk fade from the subtle attention Naruto was giving him.
Tsunade continued, "However, it was not our intention to fight the world. We just needed to have him return to the village, as it was evident to us at least, that Iwagakure and Kumogakure were bolstering their forces."
Naruto and Mei shared a look, a silent conversation, that passed everyone's notice except Karin, Sakura, Hiashi, and Shikamaru. Michiru spoke up, leaning forward, addressing the Hokage. "And now?"
Tsunade sighed, meeting the man's dark eyes with her honey-brown ones. "We now know that he is out of our reach. That our actions might have brought on the very war we are not prepared for. Kumo has two jinchuriki. As does Iwagakure; we believed, before we came here, that we and our allies had the one, and recovering Naruto, holder of the strongest, would be enough to hold them back and ensure our safety."
Mei raised a brow at that, breaking her silent conversation with Naruto off and looked to the Hokage, "Allies? Which Jinchuriki do you think you have access to?"
But before Tsunade could answer, Naruto did, "My sister, Fu." All eyes fell on him, so he elaborated, "During her debrief yesterday, Fu told me what you said to her, Lady Hokage. It is clear now that you and your council had assumed Takigakure still held control over the seven tails. Right?"
Upon Tsunade's nod, Naruto continued, "Their council, in an ironic twist of fate, followed the example of yours, and, upon hearing of the Akatsuki threat, cast her out in the same manner as I was."
The Leaf teams all looked away from that. Naruto didn't care to acknowledge their guilt and finished up with, "Thankfully, she was already on good terms with her tenant. Thus, she was guided to me, and vice versa. She has been at my side ever since. You should really check in with your allies more often and not assume they are your allies before making such assumptions. We always ensure our own are well taken care of, and the same in reverse."
Michiru smiled at that. Naruto had his honeymoon in his lands, and he pops in to visit randomly on occasion just to catch up. Though Michiru also suspects that it's to escape one wife or the other.
Mei smirks at the underlying jab, at the Leafs' own lack of awareness from their partners and allies. Clearly, they haven't been paying attention to Waterfall if they didn't know that they had banished their own jinchuriki, years after the fact. That is both poor form and bad taste, in her humble opinion.
Tsunade let out an exasperated sigh at that. They were right. Assuming things was a one-way ticket to disaster. Their pursuit of Naruto was a case in point. They just set out to retrieve him whenever they spotted him, not thinking much else about it beyond grabbing him before he vanished again.
Only to learn bits and pieces as they went. Like his father status. Then, his marriage status. Then the fact that three hidden villages have claimed him as one of their own.
Had they succeeded in capturing him, or his family, the Leaf would be facing at least seven different Bijuu and three hidden villages with only Waterfall as support. No doubt Iwa, smelling the blood in the water, would leap at the chance to wipe them out. Total destruction would follow.
Hiashi was the one to break the silence, having been so quiet himself this entire time, "Being that as it may, I have been curious about the relationship between the four of you, King Michiru, Lady Mizukage, Lord Kazekage, and Regent."
Michiru nods once, explaining, "As my land is an island nation, our closest Hidden Village is none other than the Hidden Mist. The bulk of our requests go through them. As Naruto is a registered Mist shinobi, he often assists with larger escort missions when he has time."
Mei nods, looking at her Jonin, "I still don't know if you ever actually sleep or spend time with the kids; you work so damn hard."
Naruto chuckled, scratching the back of his head, but Gaara spoke up, "I agree. He also somehow managed to clear his paperwork too. It is rather annoying."
Mei nods, staring at the Regent who pulled out his regal posture and poker face. Tsunade sees this as a perfect chance to ask about that. It has been bugging her since she first saw in the bingo book that Naruto was a Jonin for Mist, Suna, and Kumo. It was absurd that one active shinobi could hold multiple ranks in different villages.
Though before that, Karin is seen whispering to Naruto, who nods repeatedly. She then pulls back and Naruto says, "Ah, I am sorry, everyone, but I have another meeting to attend."
Naruto, looking at Hiashi, who himself only now noticed the time, nods in agreement and understanding. Naruto looks back at Michiru and says, "I am sorry, your highness, but I will leave you with Lady Mizukage, Lord Kazekage, and Hokage, as we need to return to the Shrine."
The man waved him off. "It is no bother. Can I expect an invite to the dinner party tomorrow night? I have been looking forward to Lady Shion's infamous pulled pork."
Naruto chuckled, though both Mei and Gaara perked up, as did Chojuro, earning sweat drops from the Uzumaki in attendance. Karin asks, "Infamous?"
Michiru nods so seriously that it sends a gulp throughout the room from the uninformed. "It is probably the most tender, the most beautiful, and damn right addictive variation of the dish I have ever had the pleasure of consuming. After my first time, four years ago, I had my personal chef come with me the following year to taste it, and the man is obsessed with figuring it out."
Mei nods and continues, "I tried it during the wedding seven years ago," she shakes her head in dissatisfaction. "That taste is truly something you can't forget nor replicate."
Gaara nods firmly, with more emotion on his face than many have ever seen from the man, "It silenced Shukaku, forcing him to rethink his life choices."
Naruto sweat dropped at that, nearly face faulting. "I thought it was the therapy."
Kankuro shook his head. "Pulled pork led to the therapy. Therapy led to this new Shukaku. The grandpa of the Hidden Sand."
Naruto shook his head at that. He knew his hime's were special, none were more gentle than his light and heart of the family, but that was. He paused at that. Then again, she's an Uzumaki now. Beating the impossible is something they do, even against stacked odds. It clicked. Yep. His gentle grace is a miracle worker. It just makes sense.
Naruto looks back at the group and shrugs, "My light is awesome that way. I'll ask when we get back and send a messenger to confirm or deny the existence of the Pulled Pork dish at tomorrow's dinner party."
Those in the know nod while swallowing, clearly excited at the prospect of dining on that heavenly dish once more this year.
Naruto looked towards Honoka, who was behind Shikamaru. Shikamaru thought Naruto was looking at him and raised a brow. Then, Naruto spoke, "Come on, Honoka. You know they won't sense you."
Shikamaru, Sakura, and the Hyuga sisters looked around, only for Honoka to step out beside them, startling all four shinobi. The Uzumaki grin on Honoka spread to the others, as she spoke, "I couldn't help it. They just made it easy."
Karin shared a high-five with her, Naruto shook his head in amusement, and Shikamaru glared death at the three Uzumaki for that stunt. He couldn't believe that he hadn't sensed someone was that close to him for as long as this meeting had gone on.
With the Uzumaki/Demon group gone, Tsunade fields the question that was on the tip of her tongue, voicing her inquiry to the remaining Kage, "May I ask how it is that Naruto is a Jonin in both your villages and Kumo? It doesn't make much sense to me."
Gaara and Mei share a look. Mei shrugs before turning to her Fire counterpart, speaking up, "Originally, he fought under me during the civil war. When I became the Mizukage, I appointed him as a Jonin due to his mission record. Well over a hundred A-ranks, a few S-ranks, and he defeated Yagura during the massacre of the Water Capital."
Gaara took over, knowing that particular memory was hard for anyone from Kiri to talk about. "During their recovery," he said, drawing all eyes to him. A silent thank you from Mei was noted as he continued, "Naruto approached us for help to get them on their feet. I asked for help in return, as, at the time, we were still trying to stabilise our own situation after breaking away from you, the Leaf."
Tsunade nods along to that. So, Naruto was originally just a Mist Shinobi. Gaara spoke up again, "So, while he was helping us, we 'burrowed him' from the Mist. I issued him a Suna shinobi license, flank jacket, and everything. He ended up leading several defensive operations and one offensive action against Iwa along the border with Fang and Claw. Enough to be listed in the Iwa Bingo book as Suna's Wind Fox."
Mei spoke up next, "This helped alleviate the supply issue in Suna, who sent us their surplus, and a few other niceties to speed up our recovery. As much as I wanted to recall him, his work was doing better than we could have ever imagined. So, when Gaara approached us with this alliance proposal, part of which was the joint service agreement for Naruto and Shizuka, my council was all for it."
Michiru chuckled, "I recall that signing. It was so unique and memorable; I wanted to try adding us into it somehow."
Mei and Gaara nodded. Then, Tsunade asked, "What about Kumo? How did they get involved in it?"
Gaara nods, almost forgetting that, "Well, I think it was about a year after the signing of the treaty, when Naruto, Shizuka, and Temari were out on a mission in the Land of Spring, that they came across Yugito Nii. Do not ask what exactly happened, as it is classified, but the short of it was that Naruto saved her from being captured by Akatsuki."
Taking a sip of tea to wet his throat, Gaara continued, "Naruto and Shizuka tended to her wounds, and then escorted her home to Kumo. This is where things are a bit spotty, as there is no official report, just generalities, as only Kumo, Naruto, and Shizuka know exactly what happened."
Tsunade nods, truly invested in this story, and she wasn't the only one, as Mei had yet to hear it, and Michiru was always keen on these shinobi stories. The other Leaf shinobi were also eager to find out about this.
Gaara began again, "Apparently, Kumo was aware of parts of the treaty between Suna and Mist. That some kind of joint training program existed between the villages. This led to Naruto fighting against numerous Jonin. I don't know which ones, but apparently, he and Shizuka put up a fight good enough to earn their appoval. The next thing I know, I have a Kumo delegation turning up at my gates with my sister, brother, and sister-in-law. A month later, Naruto is a Kumo Jonin too."
Tsunade nods, but Shikamaru asks, "So, this alliance between the three allows a shinobi from any of your villages to work for the others on a temporary or permanent basis then?"
Mei and Gaara nod. Chojuro speaks up, "I have worked for Kumo on several occasions, even wore their Jonin vest a few times, leading a chunin squad. It is a very unique experience, but the second the chunin's see your vest, they know that you are in charge."
Kankuro speaks next, "I have led a mixed squad of Suna and Mist Chunin on a mission investigating the Land of Sea. A very different mindset is needed to be effective, as our trainings are very different."
Kakashi nods, "Was it successful?"
Both Jonin shrugged, speaking in unison. "Sometimes."
Mei's chuckle drew everyone's attention. "Only Naruto has led a mixed squad from all three with no failures. Then there was that whole dreadful God Tree incident."
Multiple things jumped out at the statement just made by the Mizukage. Firstly, Naruto has led a team of Mist, Suna, and Kumo shinobi. This explains how he was able to adapt during that brief skirmish with the Sound shinobi. He has experience leading mixed teams.
Secondly, he has yet to fail in leading them. Perhaps being a hero in two of the three, and respect gained from battling multiple Jonin, helped with that.
Thirdly, God tree? What the hell?
Tsunade asks the most logical question on her shinobi's minds, "God tree?"
Even Michiru lost his smile at the mention of it. The two Kages nodded firmly. Gaara spoke first, "During the month of Naruto's wedding, all the Bijuu gathered there to wish him well and the like. Even the Iwa duo..."
Tsunade recalls this story from the nine-tails, but allows Gaara to continue, "When we noticed that the three-tails hadn't shown up."
Mei took over, "We knew he had reformed but wasn't responding to calls from his siblings. Naruto informed them all about the Akatsuki group and their objective of capturing and extracting all the tailed beasts. They came to the conclusion that there was only one reason for such a thing to happen."
Gaara took over now, as Mei had been reaching for her tea. "With Naruto's parents sitting in on that discussion," he paused, recalling that round table discussion. "Now that I look back on it."
Both Mei and Chōjūro nod at that. Kankurō speaks up, "It was basically a Kage summit. With Kage from all the big five, the tailed beasts, and their containers."
Tsunde's eye twitched at the reminder that she wasn't there. Though Sakura spoke up, reminding everyone that she was still in the room, "Umm, you say five Kage summit, but..."
Mei cut in, "Ah, right, in place of Tsunade, Minato Namikaze was there. Still, he was a great man. I can see where Naruto gets his deliciousness from," licking her lips at the end.
Gaara moves swiftly on, "Thankfully, Onoki knew they were in Ame, so all of us went in to investigate and defeated each and every member of their group. After the battle, we rescued the three-tails, and discovered they were planning on enslaving the entire world via a powerful genjutsu reflected off the moon."
The Leaf team gawked at that, with Tsunade muttering, "Is, is that..."
"It is," Mei snapped, deafening the room again.
Main Shrine Approach
Naruto's group's arrival back at the shrine was interrupted by a certain blond. "Miss Yamanaka," Naruto called out. The kunoichi turned on the balls of her feet, looked over, and saw Naruto leading a group of Uzumaki and Hyuga members, along with another blond she didn't recognize. "Naruto."
The unfamiliar blond glared at her, causing the Leaf kunoichi to freeze and readjust herself. "Regent, I was just heading to meet you and..."
"It's fine," Naruto waved her off as she fell into step with him. "It is rather fortunate that you met us, as the Shrine is currently on lockdown. So, yeah..."
"Why is it in lockdown?"
"A new threat arose last night. Until it is clear, the vulnerability of our strongest is being defended by our highest-ranking shinobi and summons." Naruto informs as they finally reach the perimeter of the Main Shrine.
Main Shrine
Ino gawked at the sight of the shrine being guarded by tall, muscular multi-tailed foxes, all numbering at least six, along with other dog-like animals, all in armor and looking rather regal, though there were a few house cats dotted about. Looking to her fellow blonde, she bellowed, "What the hell is going on?"
Naruto shrugged off her question as he approached the regal personified purple and black furred eight tails at the entrance, calling up, "Hey Karrtriana. It's been a while."
The vixen smiled and bowed its head, responding in a mellow, melodic voice, "Naruto-sama. Welcome back. I am pleased to report that the Guardian Corps have yet to be required to engage in combat. The area is secure."
Naruto nods and smiles, "Good to know. Though, I will be sure to call upon you for our next hunting trip. It helps keep you in tip-top shape."
She chirps rather cutely, for a fox of her size, and nods, "I thank you for your consideration. However, I believe Lady Kurama is awaiting you inside."
Naruto nods and leads his party inside, "We'll meet her right away."
As they reach the entrance, Naruto looks at Ino and says, "Ino, I need your word that whatever you see inside, you do not breathe a word of it to anyone. If you cannot, then you will be escorted out." Turning back to the Hyuga, he continues, "That goes for you too. Though, old man, you will be escorted back to the guest house. I do not trust you in the slightest."
Naruto clicks his fingers, and two four-tailed kitsune appear before the man could argue, to which he huffed and grumbled but made his way back towards the guest house. Looking back at the other three guests, he asks again, "Do I have your word that this is to remain on temple grounds? If not, then leave now."
Hiashi was more than a little intrigued. Hinata and Hanabi were curious too, though Ino was the first to speak, "I swear, though, can I at least tell my dad?"
"If we find out that he spilled the beans," Naruto began with a very serious look at his fellow blond, "then my next hunting trip will be for any Yamanaka we find. Am I clear?"
She nods firmly, matching his serious gaze. "I swear he won't tell another soul. Neither will I."
Naruto looks at Karin, who nods to confirm. Then, all eyes turn to the Hyuga. Haishi nods and says, "On my honor."
Again, Naruto looks to Karin, offering a soft nod to confirm, with Hinata and Hanabi nodding along too. "We swear."
Upon Karin's confirmation, Naruto pushed the door open, and they were led into the heart of the nation. They found kids running around in a game of ninja tag, meaning the walls and ceiling were actively in use. However, when they saw Naruto's party entering, all action ceased, and most cried out variations of "Papa!" or "Uncle!".
But before the customary glumping could occur, Naruto raised his hand and time seemed to freeze. "Go get cleaned up, we have guests as you can all see."
Many eyes flickered to the unfamiliar faces, causing the three ladies to squirm slightly. Hiashi was uncomfortable too, though he hid it behind his blank mask of indifference. It lasted only five seconds before the many kids rushed off to clean up. Naruto sighed, "I need a coffee."
Karin and Honoka chuckle, "Same," spoken together in unison.
Moving further inside the building, they cross a small flower garden before reaching the inner shrine, the family home of the Uzumaki family, not clan. Yakumo and Nila were clearly exhausted from a hard day of training under the legendary nine-tails. Ino perked up, surprised to find them there, "Yakumo Kurama."
The clan head looked up from the still elongated breakfast table, "Oh, a Yamanaka?"
Naruto and Karin chuckled at that bland response. Ino huffed, but Naruto watched as his three princesses came out of the kitchen with fresh coffees and approached the newly arrived directly on cue. Naruto broke into a face-splitting smile as he took his offered coffee from his flower princess. "Well, thank you, my flower warrior princess."
Kushina giggled as her daddy hugged her one-armed, and the two little priestesses-in-training, Miroku and Saki, asked from the side, "Papa! You're back for lunch?"
Naruto nods, looking from his eldest to his twin baby girls. "I am, Miroku. Can you and Saki ask your mothers to..."
"No need," came Shion's voice. Looking up, Shion was standing with food being placed down on the table. "Kurama mentioned your informal meetings this morning. I timed her training schedule around it. She's off helping Mata hunt down the snake in the grass."
Naruto nods, understanding taking a load off his mind. Then the kids all came running back in, Kiyota holding baby Koki, and Shizuka holding baby Nami, trailing behind the stampede of children. Naruto returns to his full height, sipping his Uzumaki coffee while still holding his three daughters, as he turns back to the guests, "Hiashi, Hinata, Hanabi, and Ino. Allow me to introduce you to my family."
A/N: Sound has been discovered and confronted, trying to sneak into Oni-no-kuni.
An explanation regarding Naruto's status as a Jonin. I will cover what happened in Kumo later during Naruto's first visit. Gaara covers more about the God Tree/Akatsuki situation from his point of view.
For clarification, the main port is about a two-hour journey to and from Oni-no-kuni for civilians. The main road between them is obviously monitored; however, the Sound are experts in espionage, while the Demon Shinobi are still rather inexperienced.
It does not matter how much or how well you are trained, as real life is rarely accurately portrayed in controlled training grounds.
That being said, Naruto's subjegation of the Sound Platoon was one sided, and swift, due to the fact he was commanding a group of S-rank and A-rank shinobi. Three Kages, S-rank Jonin, with Hana being a Mid-level A-rank shinobi as the lowest ranked shinobi.
I had no plans on expanding Naruto's family. Regardless of how things have turned out now. Though, I am in two minds about that rule. Shizuka is the gate keeper, fighting off many, many, of her fellows from attempting to court her man. Naruto is loyal to her above all else. If she says no, not even Kurama would be able to tell him yes. Shion was lucky in her timing, and confession, not hiding her intent from Shizuka.
Episode XII: The family is introduced to members of the leaf council for the first time. Trouble is sighted and confronted on two fronts. The open sea is a canvous to play out this final confrontation. After all, the Uzumaki brings a Maelstrom to the Whirlpool.
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