Chapter Two: How we fight now…
Land of Fire; Hokage Office
With the sunup high in the sky, Kakashi reaches his office only to find one Sasuke Uchiha standing at his door, not looking too pleased. His genin team at his back. Kakashi sighed, before pushing upon his door with the Uchiha moving in after, glancing back at his team, "Stay."
They nodded and closed the door behind them both.
Again, the second Kakashi's ass hit his chair, Sasuke spoke up, "The dobe. You said he was not in the village. How come he left earlier this morning?"
Kakashi looked at him blankly, contemplating things before finally answering, "Simple. He and his team arrived back late afternoon yesterday. However, Gaara no Sabaku, the Kazekage, had paid a premium for his squad's assistance for a joint escort mission. They left this morning."
Sasuke glared at the man he will soon replace, speaking lowly, "He is a shinobi like all of us. Why wave off the mandatory time off?"
Kakashi just stared before sighing, flaring his chakra calling four Anbu before him, "Sasuke. I am your hokage. You do not order things of me. How I run the village is none of your business. Yet. So, get out of my office and train your brats or log help you I will lock you up in the Anbu lock up so damn fast that not even your council 'yes-men' will be able to save you. Clear?"
Sasuke said nothing for a few moments, before grunting once and turning back to the door, leaving promptly.
Kakashi sighed hard just as Anko appeared, a swirl of leaves announcing her arrival. "Yo."
Kakashi smirked at his fiancée, waving halfway seriously. "Yo."
Land of Wind: Capital
The group containing the kazekage step through the gates three days after their early morning departure from the leaf. The architecture of the capital is as one would expect of the arid climate, Arabian oasis paradise with a touch of Zanzibar trade station as it has been expanded towards the ocean with bustling docks.
As the group moved up the main road that was wide and could easily fit six full carriages, with almost enough space for a seventh, shops and stalls equally spaced and arranged broken up interspersed by palm trees.
This boulevard was one of the busiest on the continent, patrolled heavily by samurai who wore only partial metal armour, and only in critical positions, tied with straps to secure them.
The group of Shinobi though also noticed the unseen observers crawling in the shadows and mingling among the crowds. In turn, they took were noticed and unseen nods of acknowledgement were passed as both sides were aware of the others allegiance and respected one another's work.
Reaching the Daimyo' palace, Gaara took lead as they were waved in by the honour guards and the Hidden Anbu like force, a strange mix between Suna's black ops and the fire guardians, referred to as the Kabul by the locals.
Standing outside the private office of the Wind Daimyo', Gaara looks to the four at his back, who nodded their readiness, the kage knocks the door. A muffled confirmation, "Enter."
Pushing the thick palm wood door apart, Gaara comes face to face with his own boss and current client for this escort mission, Armani Kuguro, the wind Daimyo.
The man was a tanned, jolly character, well built and towering at a solid six-foot-seven, short black hair, and eyes that would make obsidian jealous. He had a bit of a belly on him, but that never seemed to hinder his movements and only added to his welcoming nature.
None of the shinobi brought it though. They knew just how cut throat he is behind closed doors, and in defence of his people and interests. They would know, they are quite frequently under his employ during those times.
Upon seeing who entered, Armani's eyes lit up and his jolly smile and laugh came out as he bellowed out. "Ah! My friends! You're here! Good, good!"
He gestures to the seat opposite him, "Come! Sit, sit. I will have someone bring more..."
Gaara thankfully stopped him, speaking for the group, "Not necessary lord Daimyo. We are only here for the mission briefing. We are late after all and do not wish to waste any time of yours."
The man let out a loud bellowing laughter, nodding his agreement as he dropped down into his chair, Armani chuckled, "Ahh, how could I forget? You are people of action. Artisans of your craft, no?"
He let a long soft breath as he ponders over his texts words, before meeting the real gaze of his Kage, then flowing over the experienced hired killers he knows he can trust. Amani continued, "My daughter, Leyla, has been invited to a beach party by one of my nobles, Karak Kucuchi."
He spoke the name with a decent amount of distrustful undertone, the shinobi noted, Allowing the man to continue unimpeded, Armani continued, "I know that cobra is trying to poison her with his vileness by using his son and daughter to get under my skin and shake my powerbase. I know he is dirty, a scum of the highest order, however I have yet to find proof. Concrete, undeniable proof to nail him to the wall."
Gaara nodded, having met the man, but asked, "So, the escort mission is for your daughter? While also attempting to gather any information about his dirty dealings?"
Armani smiled knowingly, "Thus, we come to the true meat of the meal. I have requested you, Namikaze-san, personally, for two reasons."
He holds up two fingers, causing the addressed shinobi to nodded to allow the man to know he was listening, Armani continued, still grinning, "I know your squad holds Lady Temari. A known face among the nobility of my land."
Both blondes nodded, the Daimyo' continued after a deep sigh, looking at the blues of his hired help, Armani spoke apologetically "Secondly, it seems my Layla-chan has been blabbing about being close friends with you, and how you took her first kiss and the like."
Armani knew these shinobi were truly well trained as they did not even twitch at the announcement, but he swore he heard a facepalm of exasperation regardless.
Naruto however sighed internally, mumbling to his inner demon who was chuckling about the situation, but externally he just nodded maintaining his blank face.
Gaara broke the silence, speaking up monotonously, "So, the team will work in pairs. Naruto and my sister will guard your daughter, and Tenten and Shikamaru to scout out and find any wrong doing."
Armani smiled with a genuine level of mirth, "As sharp as always, my friend. I look forward to hearing good news from my daughter. I trust that you know where to find her, Temari-chan."
Temari nodded mutely, causing the Daimyo to all but bellow a loud laugh.
This caused Gaara to stand and nod to the man, before turning to the squad, "You have your orders."
The four Anbu nodded once, Gaara orders. "Dismissed."
Temari led the team through the stylish, arched high ceiling corridors, to the quarters of the honourable first daughter. At her back, Tenten was grumbling about people spreading rumours about Naruto and not having time for one another recently.
Naruto pretended not to hear it, though Shikamaru let out a heavy sigh before looking to the weapon expert, speaking up, "It's your fault, Tenten. Just admit to yourselves and the world that you guys are a couple and shit like this won't happen."
Tenten halted her grumbling at that and ignored the smartass with professional ease. Again, Naruto was pretending not to hear or see anything as he found those plants they are walking by incredibly interesting. A multitude of snorts echoed throughout his mind and a feminine giggle, caused him to earn grow a tick mark.
Before he can go in a rant, Temari announced. "We're here."
Standing before another ornate door of light palm tree door, Temari knocked and a much more feminine voice called out, "One minute!"
Naruto then snapped to the Nara, asking. "Should you both be seen?"
Shikamaru looked at Tenten, who looked back. It took all of thirty seconds before they both abruptly vanished into the shadows, leaving the blondes to do their work.
After a short wait, the door parted slightly and out poked a young brunette teen, beady black eyes of caution that blossoms into joy at the sight of Temari, then upon recognising the second blonde, a not so hidden blush rose from below her neck as she squeaked out, "Naruto-sama…"
Before vanishing back into the room. The blondes share a look as they both pick up the distinctive sounds of a hurried clean up. The opening and slamming of doors. The tingle of hangers colliding. Glass hitting wood. Then a thud. Before silence.
A long silence.
Eventually, the door parted revealing the wind princess to the two awkwardly waiting shinobi, Layla who spoke nervously, "Umm… sorry for the delay, Temari-chan, Naruto-sama."
Temari spoke for them both, "Layla-sama. Can we come in? We need to discuss your trip to Lord Kucuchi's party."
Layla's lit up in recollection, and nodded frantically, "Yes. Please, come in. Come in."
She steps aside, swinging the door open allowing the two known and two hidden shinobi entrance to her, according to what they knew of nobility at least, modest room which was twice the size of Naruto's entire apartment.
Naruto's silent indignation went unacknowledged, alongside the young ladies seemingly permanent blush in his presence. Temari, sensing the hidden Tentens growing ire, spoke to move things along, "Lady Layla. From what your father has told us, you are attending Lord Kucuchi's party but did not tell us when. Can you explain further?"
The teen nodded, looking at the wind mistress, Layla responded. "Yes. I was invited by Suian to attend her gathering at her villa along the coast in three days. It is a two day travel but I may have mentioned that I would be busy with Naruto-sama as a way to get out of it."
Two raised blond brows urged her to explain. She complied, "Suian may have tried to insulate that she was attending with a young lord from the Land of Water, and her brother was in the process of gaining the hand of a maiden from the east."
Temari nodded though a glance at her friend showed him stiff as a board but remaining silent, she asks, "How did you bring Naruto's name into this?"
Layla blushed, hard, responding incredibly softly, "Well, umm... I may have exaggerated the fact that Naruto-sama and I have gone o tea a few times as to not being bested. I am a Kuguro. I cannot allow a mere Kucuchi to get a leg up."
Temari sighed, rubbing her brows in my irritation at the childish games of these noble types. Layla continued, "They then asked me to prove it and come to party."
Naruto finally spoke now, having calmed himself down, "Lady Layla. If I may...?"
Upon her meek nod, Naruto continued, "Why would you bring my name in to this specifically? I understand that you may have heard of me from your father, perhaps a few of the guards, but I am not entirely sure about…"
Layla raised a hand, as if in class, and upon his nod, rubbing his own brow, she continued, "Umm... Naruto-sama. You seem to be unaware of your fame among the noble elite within our nation. I doubt there are any my age who have not heard of your exploits."
The shinobi all share looks between one another, before looking back at the teen, who perched down upon her suspiciously pristine bed. Layla nodded once firmly, "Whenever you bingo book entry is updated, or father tells me of the latest news regarding your journey, it is the next hot topic among us elites at our academy for a week."
Both blondes looked unconvinced, at least to the princess, so Layla continued, "Your fame is on par with Lord Kazekage, just not as dark. It matches Temari-chan, but more heroic. I am sure if you were any better, I am sure my father may suggest we wed to tie you to us firmly."
Temari muttered, "Your joking right?"
Layla shook her head negatively, before giggling disturbingly for a sixteen-year-old, whispering into her hands that cover her lips, no where near enough to escape the ears of any of the four shinobi. "Just another year till..."
Land of Fire; Hokage Office
A knock on the door causing Kakashi to order. "Come in."
In steps this generations Team Eight, with their Jonin-sensei Hinata Hyuga, the three genin had the same male up as the previous, but a vastly different dynamic. The main house Hyuga was far more of a hardliner and led her team from the front.
The Inazuka held a quiet strength and rarely boasted, his ninken was a German shepherd who always looked like he was about to zoom out of the room at the slightest noise.
The Abreme was a standard of his clan and only talked when required. He is said to be even quieter than his clan head and Hinata would never tell a soul that she had once needed to use her bloodline to find him. His stealth was truly unrivalled.
Stopping before the desk, Hinata lead the bows, "Lord Hokage. Team Eight requests a C-ranks mission."
Kakashi nodded, looking over the newest generation of Team Eight, a tracking team that is following in the steps of the previous. Finally, he looks to their Jonin leader, speaking in full Hokage voice. "You think they are ready then, Jonin Leader?"
Hinata nodded finely, speaking firmly. "They are, Lord Hokage."
Kakashi nodded firmly before reaching into his desk drawer and pulling out a scroll received this morning, labelled C-ranks but with a red tape that suggested it was urgent and placed it down. The squad stare at it allowing Kakashi to state. "This came in this morning and is rather urgent. It is a simple delivery mission to the south coast of Wind Country."
Upon seeing the Jonin nod her understanding, Kakashi continued. "A noble lord by the name of, Karak Kucuchi, has ordered several delicacies to be delivered to his beach house in time for a party his daughter is throwing. The party is in three days, this needs to be delivered fast."
Hinata frowned, that was not a lot of time. If she was alone, she could make it but her genin aren't quite that fast yet. "Lord Hokage. I do not believe this is a C-ranks for genin. We would have to maintain Chunin speeds for extended periods of time to get to wind country within that time frame. The south coast…"
Kakashi sighed, nodding his agreement with that but his hands are tied, "I am aware of that, Lady Hinata. The problem is that none of our available Chunin teams are available for this, and Anbu have other duties. Your team is the fastest genin team we have."
Yet before Hinata could respond, Timata Hyuga did, stepping forward, "We can do it."
Hinata stared at her clansmen, going to object but her other two genin spoke up, Keen Inazuka, speaking first, "It will be a challenge we could do."
Febian Abreme spoke clipped, "Logically, we must learn to pace ourselves to maximise our time and stamina. Why? For our continued growth as shinobi."
Hinata made no motion either way for a few moments before nodding, looking at Kakashi, "We shall not fail you, Lord Hokage."
As she takes the scroll, Kakashi giving her a firm nod. She turns to her team, Hinata announcing. "Gear up for desert travel and meet at the gate in thirty minutes."
The three genin salute, "Hai – Sensei."
Before they all rush off back to their homes, leaving their Jonin-sensei to turn back to the Hokage. Kakashi raised a brow, asking, "Something else, Lady Hyuga?"
Hinata nodded, asking, "Is – is Naruto-kun in the village right now?"
Kakashi's brow did not lower, asking blankly. "That is an unusual question coming from you, Lady Hyuga. May I ask why you wish to know?"
Hinata remained motionless for a moment, before nodding and explaining. "I wish to reconnect with him. I have come to realise that I have not been fair to him since then. We all knew what was on the line if he was captured by the enemy. We knew why we were fighting, and yet we blamed the deaths caused in keeping him safe on him."
She takes a deep breath, continuing after that, "Even then, he was the one who came running to our aid. He was the one who ended the war, and yet we still blamed him. I need to..."
Hinata paused upon Kakashi's raised hand, and listened as he spoke rather coldly, "Hinata. Let me give you some advice."
She nodded so Kakashi stated firmly, "Don't. It is far too late to offer apologies for blaming him for that. He has grown past that some time ago now. He doesn't care about what this village thinks. He has surrounded himself with his precious people. And you Hinata… are not one of them."
Hinata showed no immediate reaction to the news, standing still for a solid thirty seconds before she finally nodded once. "I – I see. In that case, I shall take my leave. Thank you, Lord Hokage. For the advice."
Kakashi inclined his head but did not respond aloud.
Upon Hinata closing the door, Kakashi looks to the plant pot on his right, and asked, "You going to hide there all day or..."
Anko stepped of the shadows, frowning at that interaction, "Something is fishy about her sudden interest in our blond gaki."
Kakashi nodded too, the timing was suspicious at best, coordinated at worst, speaking finally. "I know. So, is this a social, booty, or professional call?"
Anko grinned at that, contemplating her answer, as she noticed the Anbu shifting in ready to body-flicker away quickly. Eventually she shook her head, speaking up. "Unfortunately, the latter. This is professional. About the gaki's break in attempts to his residence."
Kakashi nodded leaning forward on his desk and taking the file presented. For some reason, he knows he should have suspect that it was them but had hoped otherwise and that they were smarter than this.
Sighing, Kakashi looks at fiancée who nodded to tell she took was rather exasperated at this turn of events. Kakashi calls out, "Raven, Badger, go retrieve Sakura Haruno-Uchiha, and Karin Uchiha please."
The two Anbu flicker out from the shadows to perform their duty.
Half an hour later…
A knock on the door to his office, and Kakashi looks up from his work forms, commanding, "Enter."
Anko hops off the desks edge and stands at attention, as Sasuke steps into the office wit, Karin, and Sakura at his back, Raven and Badger behind them. They both sign apologies to which Kakashi nodded at and they both slip back into the shadows wordlessly.
Sasuke speaks first, "Why have you summoned us, Kakashi?"
Kakashi remained unfazed by the disrespect, leaning back in his chair, and staring at his former student. Sure, he could just throw him into Anbu lock-up, but then his team will be without a Sensei and the council would be up in arms. Then again, he's the Hokage.
Clicking his fingers, Anbu appeared around the trio, including their commander, Dragon. Kakashi then speaks up casually, "You see, Sasuke-chan, I did not ask for you. I only asked for Karin-san and Sakura. So do watch your tone."
Sasuke made no moves or indications of speaking back, this Kakashi nodded as he continued, "Now then, onto why I called your two lady friends."
Sitting up, Kakashi pulls out the file Anko gave him earlier from the middle draw, and opens it, then flips it round and places it down. Within it were several photographs, clearly taken at a distance, of a hinged duo of black-haired women placing prepared seals on a domicile door.
Beside it, readings from the barrier corps with recorded chakra signatures denoting them to be one Sakura Haruno-Uchiha and one Karin Uchiha. Kakashi asks, "So, what I want to know is why they were attempting to break into that apartment?"
Sasuke studied the presented documents, and sure, it was clear that people were placing seals of some kind, and even he could tell it was a hinge based on the faded effect on both people in contrast to their surroundings. Yet, this was circumstantial at best. He could work with this.
Sasuke met his former sensei's gaze firmly, "That is clearly not them. Yes. The people are under a hinge but even paired with this snapshot of the barrier team, there is no way of knowing that the times coincide with one another."
Kakashi stared at him blankly, contemplating this for a moment, before nodding. "Very well. That will be all."
Sasuke turned upon Kakashi's nod and the Anbu vanished back into the shadows again.
Once they left, Anko looked at Kakashi, brow raised, "Is that it? Not going to reprimand him or anything?"
Kakashi shrugged uncaringly, not looking back at the addressed, "Don't need to. They won't try that again. This was a warning to them that we are watching."
Anko frowned but nodded, looking at the door once more, speaking lowly. "Hope you're right about that, Kashi-kun."
Land of Wind; Daimyo's Estate
As the sun drops below the horizon on another day in the Land of Wind, Naruto and Shikamaru are on the balcony of one of the two rooms given to the team. Both had bourbon on the rocks as the Nara suspects that his brother in arm, and best friend, has something on his mind thus, asked, "Naruto…"
Naruto knew that tone and cut him off, "I know, Shika. I know."
Taking a deep breath, Naruto continued staring at the horizon, speaking up, "It is not that I suspect that these kids actually have any connection or awareness about them, but it just caught me off-guard."
Shikamaru nodded, understanding the thought process as he too was surprised, but then again, it was also a long shot, replying. "You should send them a message at least. Let them know you are alive and well."
Naruto finally glanced to his side, beside him on the wooden railing he was leaning on, smiling softly, "I guess it has been a while."
Shikamaru matched the smile, "You're so troublesome. It would be nice to get a break for a bit."
Naruto smirked and nodded to that, before looking back out at the horizon, then asks, "What about you? I am sure Temari is pressing for kids, no?"
Shikamaru let out a grunt, reaching for his smokes, speaking up, "Yeah. Something like that. It's all very troublesome right now though, so maybe after we move and get settled in Suna, we can think about that."
Naruto hummed at that, seeing his point of view easily enough, glancing at his friend again, "We aren't there yet though…"
Shikamaru snorted, smoke blown out before he responded with a sharp side-eye, "Don't insult my intelligence. I do not even know why you are still clinging to the hope of turning the leaf into what it was once before."
Naruto shrugged uncommittedly, taking a sip, before answering, "It's where we were born Shika. The birthplace of our precious people. The place our loved ones died to protect. The ones who never made it home."
Shikamaru nodded solemnly flicking his death stick off the edge but spoke up. "I understand your feelings, Naruto. But I am sure they'd understand."
Naruto side-eyed the Nara, speaking softly. "Are you sure about that?"
Shikamaru glanced at him, breathing out smoke once again, before replying calmly. "Looking back will only blind you to the present and future."
Smiling after that, a gentle one, flicking the spent cigarette before Shikamaru closed this line of thought with. "I am sure I am not the only one who will tell you that."
Naruto did not respond to that verbally just offered a contemplative nod before downing the rest of his drink and the two stood in companionable silence.
Later that evening, Naruto was resting upon his queen-sized bed, a standard in all the guest rooms apparently, when Tenten entered after her shower and strolled over to join him in the bed snuggling up with practiced ease. Resting her head upon his chest, as always, the two remained silent and just within each others company.
Though, this time, she felt she had to break the silence, asking softly. "What are you thinking of?"
Naruto took his time to answer still pondering Shikamaru's words, over and over again, before finally whispering back. "Am I blind?"
Tenten didn't answer that, sensing there was something deeper behind the question and just took a deep, heavy breath. Naruto started playing with her hair absentmindedly, finally continuing after a protracted moment, "It's something Shikamaru said. 'Looking back will blind you to the present and future' and so I am wondering if I am blind. Is it okay to leave the village behind? We've served faithfully for what… twelve years at this point. Thirteen in your case. What's holding me back?"
Understanding now dawned on the kunoichi, and it was a valid argument, from an emotional point of view. So, chipping in her two Ryo, Tenten whispered. "Naru. I will be okay wherever you go. As long as I am at your side, I don't care which headband I wear. Just do what you think is best for you and I will back you up. Okay?"
She feels him hum through their body contact and a silence returned.
Naruto's yawn broke it, "We should get some sleep…"
Tenten had other ideas as her hand slipped further south and she felt his breath hitch upon reaching her objective. She knew this was likely a bad idea. Screw it. That hussy is trying to take her man from her, and she needs this reassurance to ensure he doesn't forget who she is to him.
Naruto whispered lowly. "Tenten, you know…"
"I don't care," she snipped, cutting him off as she finally lifted herself off his chest, not removing her hand from his member while staring down at him, Tenten continued firmly. "If you have to play the role of perfect date, boyfriend, or love interest so be it. But this is mine, got it buster?"
Naruto was left bewildered for a moment, though his body reacted getting ready for action, Tenten noted with a growing sultry expression. After a moment, Naruto responded with a nod, though went through hand-signs so fast, Tenten doubted even a sharingan would catch it.
Naruto x Tenten
Pulling down his shorts, Tenten reveals her prize to the world once more. Although only at half mast, it's growing girth excited her to no end. She has experienced the pleasures of this flesh in particular for some time now, and the anticipation was driving her crazy.
Naruto finishes channeling the chakra for the privacy barrier just in time to activate it and not disrupt its deployment by his moan. Looking down, Tenten had already began blowing him, no doubt to accelerate his shift from standby status.
He grips the hems of his shirt, biting his lip to not moan and use the pain to keep him focused on removing the light T-shirt and not her expert use of tongue on the underside of his bell. Damn. She's getting really into it.
Finally removing his shirt, reveals that somehow, she had beat him to it, already down to just her shirt and clearly not wearing a bra. Brown stare into blue as her lips remained locked around his member.
She licks and he bites back the moan. She grins and he glared. That was soon changed by the application of throat. He grips the sheets, gasping at her wiggling with him down there.
Her raise was agonisingly slow, her tongue whipping around his shaft the entire way up, and both took a deep breath when she finally releases it. The cold air signals his release from her dangerous clutches.
Tenten chuckles as she pulls up her shirt, and surely enough she had no bra on, and her two moderate love mounds come into view of the blond. But what the kunoichi did not anticipate was her lover pulling an uno-reversal and pulling her down on the bed.
She giggled as the two share a passionate kiss, but that too was fleeting as he kisses down her body, tingles shooting from the contact each time. His gentle touch dance across her hardening pink nipples, earning more shuddering sensations, and as she reaches for him to pull him up, he grabs and pins her arms down.
A gasp from the presence of tongue to lips. He releases her hands, and she grips his hair. His mouth dances across her lips, hip bucking being held down by his hold on her legs, and she moans and groans from the attention.
Slowly, surely, and with great care, Tenten can feel her first release approaching and knew Naruto knew just how to touch her, where to touch her, and when to touch her. He knew this and used this like any other time they got this hot and bothered.
Surely enough it came like a wave, a torrent of heat, pleasure, and euphoria. Back arched and a cry at the release granted. Her entire body twitched and wreathed from the overload of endorphins among his gentle caresses.
Dropping down, despite the inability to move effectively, Tenten glances down to see him smirking up at her. She glared. He grinned harder, as he came closer to her face, kissing and tongue running tracks up across her still overly stimulated body. She tried to hasten it, but he wouldn't allow it. Thus, she jerked and shuddered. Nothing she could do.
Finally, their lips lock, tongues dance, and salvia exchanged between their bodies pressed against one another, as her hands run down her lover's firm, muscular back. He knew what she wanted, and she knew he wanted it just as much as she did. No. She wanted it more.
She lined them up and finally they released their tongue battle and just stop. Staring into one another's eyes, unflinchingly and unashamedly. Her fingers guide him in, her hips aiding in the endeavour and slowly he pushed down, parting her fully and she gasps at the sensation.
Their eyes had yet to break contact.
Naruto stopped at what she knew was only halfway in. Why was he doing this?
Her thoughts were cut through when he whispered. "You promise… right?"
Despite the haze of lust currently plaguing her mind, Tenten knew what he was really asking and smiled genuinely and pecked him. Her breath below a whisper, "I promise."
There it was. She groaned lowly as he bottomed out. Oh, how she has missed this.
Naruto was not taking any prisoners, and no doubt she got him all worked up from the jealousy and the fact she started before he was ready with the privacy seal in a room they did not own. So, Tenten was gasping and crying out in bliss right now as her very gifted lover was making. No. This was just the end of their recent rut.
They have both been way too busy with their duties in recent months. The last time they had alone time was three weeks before their last mission. No doubt he is just as worked up as she was.
He smashes his lips on her's, breaking the last logical thought, and forcing her to look back upon him. She smiled into the lip lock yet also felt him bulging signalling her clamping down on him. His grunts tell of his growing pleasure and her leg lock on him tightening telling him the same thing.
For Naruto's part, Tenten was gripping him far greater than normal. Perhaps this rut was more of a hindrance to her than it was for him. Since the start she has gripped him like a vice and was only now getting more so. No doubt her increasing arousal paired with her encroaching orgasam.
Breaking from their latest lip lock he buried his face into the pillow beside her, approaching his own rapidly. His hands grab her breasts and play with the diamond heads she called nipples, earning louder moans and cries. Damn. She got tighter.
With a mighty heave, Naruto plunged deep, exploding his back log deep into his lover for the first time in weeks, his entire body shuddering in tune with Tenten's. Both had climaxed in reaction to the other. He came first that triggered her second. And this third she was now experiencing, if her clamming on him was anything to go by.
Tenten was seeing stars right now, feeling Naruto unload in her after so damn fucking long. Like damn. It's so hot. Spreading deep. Maybe she should just. No. That is not something to do without talking about, but damn. Number three.
The two would remain locked like that for a full ten minutes, catching breaths and motor control.
Land of Fire; Hatake Compound
Kakashi finds himself awakening to his own little paradise of heaven. A beautiful woman on an arm each. On his left, Anko Mitarashi, soon to be Hatake, as nude as the day she was born. On his right, the ever-gentle Shizune, in a similar state of undress, but just as radiant despite the growing baby bump.
She had entered her third trimester a week ago and things were going okay. No problems. Things have been crazy and full of life in the old compound. Well, not so old anymore.
The month after the Nara wedding, Naruto and Shikamaru came over and together the three had gotten to work on fixing the place back to its former glory and then some. Took them three weeks to complete as they only allowed two shadow clones each, but they were largely for supply and food runs.
This was a home for the future of the Hatake. Kakashi wanted to grab it with his own hands.
Yawning as he locked the door behind him, Kakashi looks up to the still dark sky, "The future… huh…?"
Land of Rivers; Clearing
Hinata's Team Eight was eating their breakfast, as their Jonin leader was looking up at the lightening sky, she ponders the past. Her talk with Hanabi, upon her return from that meeting regarding the Uzumaki clan head, did not provide any great insight.
Just like the others, she was upset by the deaths of her friends in the defence of Naruto. She too was willing to do so too. Yet, during the cleanup process, it dawned on many. This was Naruto's fault.
If he had just been deployed earlier. If he had not hidden at the back. If the enemy wanted him, just use him to draw them out. Why did they sacrifice their loved ones for one boy?
Sighing softly, Hinata realises she too was in that crowd. Her father died in that conflict. So did Kiba-kun, and Neji-nii-sama. She recalls the linch mob that formed one night. Watched as Naruto faced it without flinching. The dead look in his dull grey-blue eyes as he stared at her. Her inaction in his defence.
Were it not for Shikamaru or Tenten. Hinata blinked at that. What has Tenten been up to lately? When was the last time she had checked on her? Shikamaru too. She will do that when she gets back.
Right now, she has to get this delivery to this nobleman then investigate the happenings of her former friends. They were making great time and surely her team have been pushing themselves well.
Land of Wind; Daimyo's Estate
In the workers kitchen, Shikamaru glared at Naruto, who pretended not to notice, though Temari was smirking as she stared at the basically glowing Tenten, who was beaming a smile filled with contentment and satisfaction that none could hope to match.
Shikamaru growled lowly, "What was that about being on mission?"
Naruto looked back, leaning heavily on his Kakashi trick book, blinking owlishly, "Hmm… did you say something?"
The Nara's eyes narrowed dangerously, and the air actually dropped a few degrees, and thus the Uzumaki just sighed, Naruto shrugging. "Unlike you two, we haven't had the ability to spend much time together. She needed reassurance. I was not going to say no. Used my hand sign privacy seal as someone was a bit too high strung…"
Tenten smiled sweetly at Naruto who froze stiff as a board, and Shikamaru swore he even stopped breathing. Tenten spoke softly. "Oh, Naruto-kun… what was that?"
Naruto simply raised a brow at her and the stare off unfolded. A silent battle of wills.
It lasted a full minute before Tenten kissed her teeth, averting her gaze and Naruto smirked victoriously then nodding. Looking back at Shikamaru, Naruto continued. "Though, as it's an exception to the rule, I was certain you guys are just as guilty as we are."
Shikamaru swallowed his food, before shrugging casually, "Perhaps, but you are a man of your word so it's out of character for you."
Naruto shrugged just as casually as the Nara did, replying, "I am a hot-blooded male just like anyone else. I am not ashamed of myself."
Temari smirked, looking to the prettily blushing weapon mistress, whispering, "Oh? So, you…?"
Tenten glared at the woman, hissing out, "Shut it bitch!"
Temari chuckled lowly, grinning like an idiot, before humming back challengingly but nothing else as she returned to her food. She knew she did not need to say anything further. Tenten knew it too and growled.
Shikamaru and Naruto sighed at their partners acts, muttering together. "Troublesome."
Land of Wind; Kucuchi Beachside Villa
Two days of civilian travel and the group arrived at the holiday beach house of the Kucuchi family. The pine wood gates were overly decorative, flashy, and clearly worth more than reasonably possible for normal folk like the shinobi team.
Naruto and Temari were visible at the young Layla's side, though Naruto was by far closer seeing as his arm was grasped by the young lady. He thought this was a bad idea as no doubt it will kick off rumours, but she had insisted on it.
Shikamaru countered it by saying that Kakashi will have to deal with the paperwork, this was able to keep Naruto satisfied enough to silence his protests. This will be his payback for his negligence towards Shizune-nee.
Brought from his thoughts by the creaking open door, Naruto applies his standard-issue, shinobi grade, diplomatic smile as the Lady of the week, Suian Kucuchi, appears from the opening gate. She actually froze upon seeing the very same Naruto her rival had said she was in the company of in their prior interactions.
Not only that, but also the other escort was none other than the former heiress of the Sabaku Estate, Temari the wind mistress. Was this the power of the Kuguro family? To simply hire two highly celebrated war heroes, at least in Wind Country, and S-rank shinobi as mere bodyguards for an in-country trip.
Not only that, but this also means the Layla was not lying being close friends with Naruto-sama either. Being able to cling to him, and he seemingly minding the contact. Suian gulped. She had not bothered to tell her father that Naruto-sama would be attending, nor that Lady Temari would be accompanying him, as she did not believe the hot air Layla had been spouting. This was bad.
On the other side, Temari caught the flashing emotions ripple across Suian Kucuchi's features. Shock, disbelief, envy, realisation, and then unease. She had never met this particular noble lady before, but she has interacted with members of her family previously, and unease is not one emotion she would link to any of them. Much like the Uchiha, they were arrogant, borderline obnoxious.
They say it's just their pride in their ties. She did not buy it for a second. Something else was going on and the brief eye contact with her fellow blond told her he suspected the same thing as she had. The shinobi level nod confirmed they understood the unspoken change to their mission.
As they were operating as regular, run-of-the-mill, Jonin at the moment, their reputation and that of both the Hokage, and Land of Wind was on their backs.
Naruto observed the suddenly uneasy teen before him. Suian Kucuchi. Tall for both her age and as a woman, standing at respectable five-foot-ten, slender frame, pale blonde, similar to Temari's but darker, lighter teal eyes that lean more towards green than blue, and a face that made her look perpetually annoyed.
Due to her rather revealing silk purple attire, Naruto can tell she was mid-B-cup in the chest and was no doubt using every trick in the book to add a hefting effect to enhance their appealing effect on the opposite gender. No bra and the long wide straps of silk crossing over from both her shoulders, covering most of both mounds but drew attention to the chest valley. These straps led down to her waist that hooked into the rest of the dress that left little to the imagination regarding her body shape.
He did not allow his eyes to wonder however, focusing on her face entirely despite the great lengths this sixteen-year-old was going through to force such a reaction. Instead, like a practiced politician he offered a smile as he introduced himself. "Lady Kucuchi. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. My name is Naruto Uzumaki. Layla-chan has told me that you wished for our attendance today and I did not aspire to disappoint."
This snapped everyone back to the tasks at hand, as intended by Naruto who did not want to be standing in the scorching heat forever, and Suian was quick to revert to the hostess she was meant to be, smiling back, and nodding, saying. "Naruto-sama, Temari-sama. It is an honour to be hosting you today along with Layla-chan. Please come in. The party is beginning soon."
She offered brief bows at each name mentioned before gesturing inside, to which the three visible, and two not so, entered without any further fanfare.
The estate was rather expensive and laced heavily with a noble spirit with plenty of gold interlaced with the exotic woods, for wind country at least, with Naruto noting that a lot of it was the super rare and expensive White Birch only found on the boarders of Land of Wood and Land of Forest. He mentally thanked both Captain Yamato and his own experience within the area that allowed him to notice this. These woods are not easy to come across, especially in these quantities.
Temari had noticed the narrowed eyes on Naruto when he spotted several details and discreetly watch him trace the support beams with his gaze and suspected he had noticed something of them. She was curious as to what they could be but would ask later. No doubt Shika or Ten would know what it was that he had already noticed.
Reaching the garden and pool of the estate, Suian introduced them to the small crowd who were stunned to see the princess of wind, Layla Kuguro, in an elegant cream silk dress that hugged her frame relatively loosely, like most Wind Country outfits due to the heat, yet it still emphasised her larger than Suian's chest, and firmer body in general.
Layla was enjoying the attention afforded to having the hottest shinobi, in both appearance and reputation, at her side. Not only that he is being an absolute gentleman, staying at her side to emphasise their exaggerated relationship. Sure, it's fake for now, but Layla is sure she can gain the genuine article if she speaks with her father.
Right now, she watches Naruto and Temari bounce the attention her fellow nobles' children, regaling tales of their adventures yet she had not begin forgotten by her pretend friend, as he smiles at her warmly. This. This is something she is looking forward to creating.
Elsewhere in the manor, Shikamaru appears behind Tenten who glances back at him, silently gesturing through the darkness of the private office space. As silently as their profession suggested they were, the duo searched the office space like ghosts that left nothing behind to suggest they were there.
As Tenten searched the bookcase for any hidden or discreet contraptions, Shikamaru searched the desk. A very faint dusting of particles, most would assume to be dust, caught the Nara's eyes, and caused him to retrieve a pair of gloves and a seal writing brush from his pouch, a gift from Naruto.
Channeling the minutest amount of chakra through the hairs of the tip, Shikamaru swiped the substance from the corner of the leather cover matt used for writing documents without damaging the red oak desktop. After collection, he places the sample into a glass jar for later identification.
Tenten hadn't been idle either, noticing a hidden latch attached to a particular book labelled 'Kucuchi history and as much as she wanted to pull it, there was no telling what would come of it.
As such, she followed a path to the wall opposite where a family portrait sat mounted to the wall and nodded to herself. From her rear pouch came a large number of paper tags, and as she began flicking through them. It took a bit. A fair amount of time in fact.
Long enough for Shikamaru to step past her with a silent question on his face. Tenten offered a brief smile before finding what she was looking for. A visual recording seal. Handing it to the Nara, she flicks to the back, pulling out a chakra storage and hands that to the Nara.
Replacing the stack from her back pouch, and retrieving the one from her leg holster, she slips past the explosive tags to the timer seals and hands that to him, and now Shikamaru knew what she was planning. A quick glance across from them and he moved swiftly and placed the three tags with a view of the bookcase, yet out of sight.
Tenten crouches beside him, sealing brush in hand and writes out one of the only seals she has memorised. A notice reduction seal. Most her kunai have them, so she remembers it well.
With everything set up, Tenten places one last motion sensing seal attached to the visual recording. It was a gamble. It couldn't differentiate between their target or the kids but if they are lucky, they'd catch the man in the act. The battery only lasts twenty minutes as it was their smallest seal and not getting caught was a given.
They left shortly after with none noticing they were there at all.
A knock on the ornate gate and it took awhile before Suian answered it revealing another hidden leaf Jonin, who says. "Good day, we have a delivery request for a Karak Kucuchi."
Suian nodded, her dad did tell her about this so, responded, "Ah yes. Please, follow me. You can place it in my dad's office."
The sixteen-year-old hostess led the leaf team through the halls and up a flight of stares, which when the Jonin hears a very familiar voice nearby, "…then, Temari and I, just bump fists like we planned it all along. The bandits did not know what to do."
A mixture of giggles and laughs follow it which is when they pass a window, and the Jonin catches sight of a familiar mop of sun kissed blonde hair, among a gathering of young noble's, with a drink in hand, all laughing at the story being told.
On a slightly longer inspection, the blond at his side was indeed Temari no Sabaku, both of them were in Hidden Leaf Jonin attire, which confused the newly arrived team. A throat clearing drew the eyes of their guide, Suian informing. "In here."
The door parts revealing the office, and the Jonin steps in, their guide waiting as she strolls towards the desk, detecting the flicker of chakra from the right near the floor. A quick glance showed a small, almost unnoticeable collection of seals, masked under a light genjutsu of sorts.
She places the scroll on the desk, and retrieves the contents, a collection of Land of Fire wines, top shelf stuff. As she goes to leave, she stops and glances at the tag again, the faint signature was masked. Tiamata abruptly pulled the seal off the wall and stared at it with a frown, stating, "This, what is this?"
A new voice answered, "That is what I want to know, leaf ninjas?"
All four of the genin squad look to the door to find a man, towering at six-foot five, and weathered leather like skin over his face, clearly one who has grown up within the sun of the Land of Wind. However those dark teal eyes of him show intelligence, distrust, and contempt, as he declares again, "Why are you here and what is that seal you have their girl?!"
As the Jonin leader steps up his sharp gaze falls to her as she spoke, "My name is Hinata Hyuga, Jonin leader of Leaf Team Ten. We came here to deliver you your order of vintage wine. As for what my student is holding, we are unable to say as we…"
Another voice breaks in, speaking over the soft spoken clanhead, "So, you"re Karak Kucuchi?"
The man, looks over to see who had dared put respect on his name and froze. Why? For before him was a duo of celebrated S-rank shinobi, Naruto Namikaze and Temari no Sabaku, and they were with none other than the princess of the winds, Layla Kuguro.
Immediately Karak offered a brief bow, "Lord Namikaze, Lady Sabaku, Lady Kuguro. I was unaware of your attendance at this gathering. Forgive me for not introducing myself to you all upon my arrival."
Naruto offered a nod, responding briskly, "It is of little consequence, though, I had been meaning to discuss with you on a business opportunity. Though, it also seems that you are unaware of good friends news. I would have thought, one of such esteemed as yourself, would have been up to date."
Karak's demonor shift was noted at the mention of business, then again, when news of Temari and him being unaware. As he thought on it, he missed the flicker behind him, as Tenten and Shikamaru moved in to the office.
Again, without words, as Naruto and Temari distracted the noble, Tenten recovered the seals, finger on her mouth to indicate quite to the inexperienced. Seeing as she had her Jonin jacket, the genin just nodded, and Shikamaru signed to Hinata, "See forward." Then pointed at the bookcase. It took Hinata a moment before activating her bloodline, and saw another room beyond. She signed. "Hidden. Room. No occupants."
Shikamaru nodded, before looking to Tenten, signing "Plan Three."
Tenten nodded and the two vanished again, all evidence of their presence gone. Just as Karak let out a bellowing laughter, drawing all eyes to him, as he exclaims, "Oh, forgive my inattentiveness, Lady Temari. I should give you this…"
He turned back towards his office, the genin team now at his back, with Hinata standing there with the delivery note for the mission, and just as Karak was about to refuse, Naruto spoke, "Come now, Karak. Pay them so we can talk about your security plans. I will personally speak to Lord Hokage for you, to discuss their inexcusable actions as members of the Leaf Shinobi force."
The man paused so Temari added in, leveraging the full weight of their combined diplomatic presence, "As will I. Seeing as my brother is personally involved, no doubt the Hidden Sand will want to hear of this."
Karak didn't real have much choice, so nodded, as he signed off on their mission but when he noticed how pale the three young ninja were, along with their leader, he gained a sense of smug satisfaction at their horror filled faces. All of them staring at the blonde duo who looked back equally as firmly, daring them to step out of line again.
Karak had never felt this smug seeing his allies put a group in their place so thoroughly, that they were mute and shaky. Chuckling, he enters the room and recovers one of the vintage bottles from the group of the freshly delivered.
Upon his exit, Layla was explaining to Naruto the joys of this party so far, and thanking him for accompanying her. Naruto offered a smile so diplomatic, Temari couldn't look or risk signing off a new treaty between the Nara and Namikaze.
Karak approached the trio, his daughter with him, both forgetting about Team Eight, and Naruto began, "Should we discuss things down with the others, show the upcoming generations how us upper class talk business?"
Karak grinned, nodding along, "Most certainly. It will be good to show them what a war hero has in common with us elite."
Naruto chuckled firmly nodding repeatedly, internally though, he was cursing up a storm at having to pamper to this guy ego and holding up this façade of this so-called upper-class war hero act. Though, it's required due to the inadvertent interference by Team Eight, who almost blew their secondary mission.
As Hinata watch Naruto lead the noble away she let out a tight breath, that was close. A bad mark from a client of Kucuchi's prestige would have been terrible for her team, and subsequently the Hyuga. They have numerous ventures in the Land of Wind that would have been jeopardised if they were written up by this man.
At that moment, she catches the flicker of movement back in the office and looking over she saw Tenten and Shikamaru opening the hidden door. The next moment they swooped in and began ruffling through the documents. Hinata looked to her genin, and spoke lowly, "Stay here and keep watch."
They all nod before she heads back into the office to find Shikamaru scanning a document with Tenten placing a file back and fixing it back without any sign of moving it. Clearing her throat, Hinata managed to catch Tenten's attention, Shikamaru was going through documents at speeds that defied her awareness of his capabilities. That's for later, for now, Hinata looked at Tenten, "It has…"
Tenten raised a hand, silencing the clan head, speaking clipped, "This is not the time nor place, Lady Hyuga. We are on mission, and we have to…"
She was interrupted by her teammate, Shikamaru speaking up, "Found a trail. Need those seals."
Tenten wordlessly hans him a stack of seals, "Take from the bottom."
Shikamaru, without even glancing at the stack, as he was piling over the financial records, and cross references to a journal for dates, takes a set of three seals that Hinata recognised her student. finding. Tenten cut through her realisations, stating, "You should be tending to your team, and not interrupting our mission, Lady Hyuga."
The cold tone sent goosebumps across Hinata's delicate pale skin, as she stared back at her fellow leaf kunoichi. Biting her tongue, to remain confident, Hinata finally replies, "Is there anything we can do support your objectives here?"
Shikamaru finishes with his investigation, and as the seals do their work, looks up to catch Tenten's eyes, the two nod before Tenten replies to Hinata's question, "No. Your presence here has thrown our mission off. If we had not signalled Naruto to break into his high-class merchant routine, you would have landed us in hot trouble."
Hinata surprise was well hidden but the two before her saw right through her stoic mask. Tenten had been in deep with a hyuga, thus knew what to look for. Shikamaru is Shikamaru, nothing gets by him. It's just a drag to point it out. Hinata though, spoke, "That was an act?"
Shikamaru snorted, that was obvious at a glance of you knew Naruto. He hates the whole formalities and stuff. Tenten though sighed, hard, hands falling to her hips, "But of course, Lady Hyuga. As it was me who asked it of him, I will have to pay him back for this."
Shikamaru finishes resetting the whole desk, reports, journals, and paperwork, but mutters to his teammate, "Better you than me. I still haven't been forgiven for that mistake with the prawn last month."
Tenten raised a brow, before snorting, "You should have known better. Shizune's pregnancy is rather rough on her, and you bring her prawns. Naruto is not one to let things slide like that."
Shikamaru mumbled about stupid cravings and stupid blondes but collects and secures the collected evidence the Wind Daimyo needs, and steps clear of the desk, "Whatever. Let's just get clear and signal Naruto to pull back. If he is actually forced into making a deal for his seals…"
He trails off and Tenten shudders. After a very visible gulp, Tenten mutters, "He'll cut me off again."
Shikamaru nodded firmly, "That he will. Though, this time you can just blame Lady Hyuga. Should get…"
"Naruto does…" Hinata began, but upon their blank stares she falls silent. Without any more words the two teammates leave, Hinata following silent after them.
The two teammates approach the balcony and signal out of sight of the civilians but Temari catches it and offers a shinobi grade nod, and the two Jonin look back at the genin team. Shikamaru ordering them, "You are dismissed, Team Eight. Good work and all that."
Hinata and her team nod before Tiamat steps forward, asking, "Umm, Lord Nara."
Shikamaru sighed, hands in his pockets, before replying, "Relax. It was all a distraction. Nothing will be reported or anything. Just creating an opening for a distraction. Get gone already, you're cramping our style."
The young Hyuga nodded and bowed, and Hinata led them out of the estate.
Temari, upon seeing the signal of mission complete, nodded subtly before turning back to the crowd, where Naruto was sitting across from Karak, Layla on his lap, twirling around some rose wine in a glass, and was about to comment on it when Temari spoke, "Naruto. Times up I am afraid. E have a meeting with the Kazekage to get to."
Naruto's gaze upon the former wind residence was loaded with relief and joy at not having to play this role anymore, like a trapped soldier seeing a medi-vac clearing the horizon, coming for him. He was almost teary eyed, that was how much he hated this role. It was supremely useful though on a lot of their missions, so he begrudgingly accepted it.
The former shinobi turned politician gig. It was so common that none questioned it.
Naturally, the others were upset at the news, none more than Layla, as she was no longer able to display her feminine qualities to the warhero and try win him over. Naruto though, turned to Karak, and stated, "Forgive me but it seems that my next engagement requires my attention. If, however, you seek guidance in the art of seals, then please send Lord Kazekage a missive. He knows how to get into contact with me."
The man nodded firmly, still rather deep in thought at the prospect of dabbling in the niche market of seals. Karak was not ignorant of that particular market, but its very nature is highly secretive and breaking in is incredibly difficult. That being said, lucrative is to low a word in regard to the profits to be had there.
This is a decision not to be made lightly.
Land of Wind; Jime Costal Town
After leaving the party, Naruto and company returned to the town closest to the beachside estate. They came here so Layla can be seen in the area before they head back via their team's unique movement method.
Spotting a seafood stall, Tenten gestured to it, "How about a quick stop before we head back?"
The five-some come to a stop staring at the small diner, before Layla announced, "How novel. That would be great, right, Naruto-sama?"
Naruto sighed, Tenten grew a tick-mark, and Temari grinned at Tenten's annoyance. Shikamaru however, just headed on, followed directly by Naruto that was trailed quickly after by the only civilian of the party. Tenten growled as she followed with Temari, who added, "Just go official already and this won't be happening."
Tenten glowered at the married woman, who shrugged it off, as they reached the others. Unawares to the Jonin team, they were spotted by the young Hyuga and Inazuka of Team Ten, who rushed to report back to the Inn.
As the team and their protection target selected their meals, Naruto slumped back in his seat, and muttered, "That was so tiresome."
Shikamaru smirked, replying, "You played the role perfectly, as always."
Temari nodded, resting her chin in hand, as she smirked, adding, "Yeah. You okay the retired shinobi turned noble role so perfectly, that at times I have to remind myself that you are acting."
Layla looked confused for a moment, asking the table of shinobi, "You mean, that was an act, Naruto-sama?"
Naruto looked dead at the teen, "Yes. One I have been forced into doing far too many times as of late."
He glared at Tenten, who was at his side, forcing her to look away and whistling innocently but both knew she was paying for this.
Shikamaru called attention to himself, "Still. What we found should be enough for mission completion. Maybe a bonus."
Temari quirked a brow, "That much confidence is rare. Must have been solid proof for you to make such a claim."
Shikamaru nodded, looking to Naruto now, "We should be able to take it easy for a bit. Like we discussed."
Naruto recalls their talk and nods slowly, before replying softly, "Uh, yeah. I'll get on that."
The girls look between the two men, sensing something wasn't being said, but the older two did not push it but the youngster did not, Layla asking, "Is something the matter, Naruto-sama?"
Yet before Naruto responded, the four Jonin tense until Tenten spots Hinata's group outside the establishment and groaned silently. Naruto caught her gaze and followed it, before matching her reaction and Shikamaru sighed, "Troublesome."
Temari glanced back and saw the issue and frowned, muttering, "Didn't we already clear this issue up? Why are they still here?"
Tenten muttered, "They're just genin. Doubt they have enough stamina to get back. Remember, we were the weird ones back in our genin days. Most of us were already chunin level during our exams."
Shikamaru and Naruto chuckled, though Temari grinned, recalling that fateful exams, and looking at the weapon mistress, taunting, "Oh right, when I kicked your ass and dropped it on my fan."
Tenten's glare would have cut tungsten, as she grinned darkly, cracking her knuckles, "Oh, we should have that rematch. Should be good to show you how comfortable weapons can truly be."
The tension between them became electrifying, glares reaching Jonin level, but Naruto and Shikamaru just shared a look, before both nodding. "Troublesome."
This is when the unwarranted cut in, "Oh, Shikamaru-san, Temari-san, Tenten, Naruto…"
All the addressed looked up to see a softly smiling Hinata standing there, her team at her back, Hinata continued. "…do you mind if we join you?"
Tenten gestured to the girl furthest into the booth, at the end, stating, "Well, Lady Hyuga, we are on mission right now, escort Lord Daimyo's daughter there. You'll have to ask her as we are only here to escort her."
The others at the table nodded, but Layla who looked around at the clearly tense group of her defenders. It was clear that they did not want to interact with their fellow leaf ninja for one reason or another, so when the newcomers looked to her, Layla spoke first, "I am sorry. We won't be stay long, and my father told me to stick with these shinobi so unless he says otherwise."
Before Hinata could think of anything beyond the fact this was the wind daimyo's daughter, a pair of servers came over and delivered the table's food. The owner himself being one and kept saying how much of a privilege it was for Layla to visit his small establishment.
For Naruto's team, this is exactly what they needed. Someone vouching for Layla's presence. That way when they get back to the capital, people will hear how Lalyla went to a party and spend the night in Jime Town, before she headed back.
Team Ten took the booth next to them as Naruto's team ate their meals. Though, after a whole Naruto looked at Layla, "Say, Lady Layla, once you are done with your main course, please get changed for travelling. We will be leaving after this, okay?"
The teen nodded, swallowing the lobster meat, Layla saying, "As you wish, Naruto-sama."
Tenten remarks, "We should make time. Though, I am dreading the report."
Naruto shrugged, before grinning, "It's more paperwork for Kakashi-sensei, so I'm game."
Shikamaru snorted, chuckling. "Anything to give him a headache right?"
Naruto nodded firmly, maintaining the foxy grin, "Isn't it always?"
Temari chuckled, looking up from her caviar to her fellow blonde, "You know things will come to bite you late on."
Naruto chuckled back, "Perhaps, but I bite back,"
Tenten spat out her drink, chocking on the beverage. Temari gained a faint tint of of red, though Shikamaru looked pointedly away. Naruto had never seen his perpetually bored friend look so caught off guard, and grinned harder.
Shikamaru could feel the grin and grimaced. Oh boy. Naruto and Anko should have been kept apart from one another, their big sister/little brother relationship has been the bane of many, even worse as they both take their worst, at least to everyone else, aspects of the other at times.
Before Tenten can reprimand her idiot about revealing secrets, Naruto, in an effort to save himself from retaliation, spoke to Shikamaru, successfully allowing his bedmate to save face, "Shat's the matter Shika? Something catch your tongue? Or maybe…"
Tenten caught on and managed to compose herself as she grinned look at Temari who went stoic, and not daring to back down. She knew if she did, Tenten would 'accidentally' let it slip within ear shot of a certain woman with a fondness for snakes and a sweet tooth known worldwide. That she cannot allow to happen.
The mounting tension was broken by the innocent teen, their protection target, who was blissfully unaware of the current situation, Layla asks, "Umm… I need to change."
All four shinobi look to her and for a moment they recall what was going on, and Tenten got up, "I'll escort you."
Naruto slipped out, as did Shikamaru, and Temari followed as Layla got out and headed to the toilet, with the two kunoichi in tow. The Nara glared at the Uzumaki, who grinned. Naruto spoke though, "Relax, Shika. A-rank secrets aren't going to be spread around like that. We cool?"
Shikamaru remained silent for a few seconds before he grunted, looking back toward the direction the ladies left in. Naruto too leaned against the table and remaining silent.
Natrually, their words were picked up by the genin team who all tensed. They never thought that they would overhear an A-rank secret. They obviously did not know that Naruto was lying to make sure they did not go blabbing, but it did the trick.
Hinata was too embarrassed about their discussion in general to dare utter it within her head. She wouldn't even know how to respond to that all. Though, based on Tenten's initial reaction she and Naruto seem close. Are they dating? She will have to look into that.
Land of Wind: Daimyo's Estate
After a three-hour journey at mid-Anbu speeds, Naruto carrying Layla, who was amazing at the speed they had moved at, the group arrive back in the capital, with the team welcomed by the guards as they spotted lady Layla being piggybacked by the legendary Namikaze. She was in good hands.
Getting back into the estate was equally as simple, as Naruto finally put the princess down from his back and allowed the servants escort her from there. The foursome head over to the office and Temari knocked once. Entering when ordered to do so.
Armani Kuguro was standing at his window, staring over the capital city of his land that was prospering under his family's continued rule. His father had died four years ago, handing him the reigns only six months prior, and yet it still feels like the man was smiling down on the great work he's managed in his absence.
Despite that, the fact that those within his court seem hell bent on making things better for themselves, at the cost of everyone else, was tiring even his relatively young bones.
Finally, he turned back to the shinobi who he had called upon to help take care of one little problem and keep his baby girl safe. He broke into his cheerful smile and bellowed, "My friends! You make good time as always. I trust my baby is fine and well."
Temari, the chosen spokeswoman for anyone in Wind territory, steps forward, stating, "Of course, Lord Kuguro. We would never be so reckless and allow such things to occur on our watch."
Armani hummed as he reached his desk, taking his seat as Shikamaru stepped up, placing the documents recovered on the desk, and Temari explained, "These, however, are part of our secondary objective. They are copies as we did not want to risk detection and have Lord Kucuchi go underground before you could apprehend him."
The daimyo looked over the documents and truth be told, even his keen eye couldn't tell these apart from the real deal, had he not been told before hand. Though, perhaps he could use that fact to pin the slime ball to the wall. Looking up, serious mode locked in, Armani stated, "You have done well. As always."
Pulling a scroll from his top draw, that he hands to Temari, he continued, "Your payment and completion details to hand to the Kazekage and Hokage."
Temari led the bows, before replying, "Thank you, Lord Daimyo."
Land of Fire; Hokage Office
After another three-day trip back home, Naruto and his team arrived back in the leaf and as usual signed in, then made a beeline for the hokage tower. Naruto also noted that Team Ten had yet to return to the village so this should be good.
Knocking before entering, the squad is treated to an unfortunate sight, Kakashi staring at one chief of the hospital staff, one Sakura Haruno-Uchiha. Kakashi spotted them and brightened, before calling out, "Ah, Jonin Team…"
He paused as he can't actually recall what Jonin Team number Naruto's group was assigned so made one up on the spot, "Thirty-seven. You are back from the Land of Wind escort."
The squad of four Jonin entered the room, professionalism rolling off them in waves, though Kakashi can clearly see the barely veiled amusement dancing in their eyes at his smooth cover up.
Sakura had moved off to the side of the office watching this. She had never seen Naruto act this professional. Was this even him?
Naruto stepped forward, in perfect decorate and stated firmly as the Teams captain, by title only. "Lord Hokage. Our mission was a complete success. Lord Kuguro sends his regards for a job well done."
He presents the scrolls, five of them, one holding the personal stamp of the Wind Daimyo which Kakashi took without preamble.
As he was reading the initial report, Sakura was eyeing up this all Jonin team. Team Thirty-Seven. She has to remember to ask for them for help in the next hospital resupply mission. Her observations told of a well organised team that has seen considerable amount of combat.
Despite that, they held no weapons but did all have extra armour plates on their forearms and no doubt had mesh armour beneath their undershirts. Which also suggested their combat formations. Based on the wear and tear of their exposed armour, Naruto and Tenten were front-liners, Shikamaru mid-range, with Temari bring up the rear.
Makes sense. It was a solid combat team. Then again, when did they even form a team. Sakura never did find out what team Naruto moved to after the disbandment of their Team Seven. She was busy with Sasuke with clan stuff or running the hospital. Did he move into this team immediately. Were the others replacements. Was this a temporary team. No. They look far too confident to be a one time team. How long have they been working together.
Wait. Sakura looked at their headbands, and surely enough, Temari had a Leaf and not the Suna hourglass. When did she become a Leaf kunoichi. She hadn't seen them at their meet-ups. Whenever she was spotted around town, most just assumed it was part of the alliance. Like how that Kumo redhead and white haired duo are often found in the Hatake compound.
All Sakura's thoughts cut through by Kakashi speaking up again, "In any case, the bonus will be added to your accounts by tomorrow at the latest. As always, you aced another mission with flying colours."
The team all smirked and nodded, so Kakashi continued, "You're on standby until tomorrow. I will have your next assignment ready for you then."
Sakura gawked at that. Escorting a daimyo is at minimum an A-rank mission, and they are only put on standby and not leave? She can't let that happen. Sasuke-kun wants to talk with Naruto so, she prepares to use her station as chief of the hospital to ban them from taking missions, when Naruto spoke up, "Actually, Lord Hokage."
This caused everyone to pause and look to the team captain, Naruto continued, "I have spoke to the team during this mission, and as Team Captain, we are putting in request for leave for all four of us. A month at most."
None moved for a full minute. Sakura though looked around at the vary serious room, before suddenly two Anbu squads appeared and popped party poppers and Kakashi rose to his feet and clapped along with said Anbu.
Naruto hung his head in shame, red cheeked. Tenten looked amused at the scene, Temari smirked, and Shikamaru sighed hard before smirking. His friend is so troublesome even when putting in a request for time off.
When Dragon appeared, they held out a hand for Kakashi to slap five-thousand Ryo into the operative's hand. This all led one Sakura Haruno-Uchiha to be completely and uttlerly confused.
Kakashi stood up and circled his desk as the Anbu vanished back into the shadows, and took ruffled Naruto's hair, saying softly, "It's about time, ya know. You have long surpassed all mission records and created new ones. It's time to take it easier and let the rest of your fellow shinobi take some of the load."
Naruto didn't lift his head initially, but he did nod before parroting his best friends words, "I was recently given good advice. That if I keep looking back, I will be blind to the present and future."
Looking up finally, Naruto smiled softly, "So, I wanted to start with some time off for the team. We all have things we have been putting off. We should tackle them and return with our boots first, to hit the ground running."
Kakashi eyesmiled and nodded, though took note of the smile of the Nara's face. Must be his doing. The Hokage retook his seat, and nodded, "Well, Team Thirty-seven…"
All four Jonin had to bite their lips to stay quiet, though Kakashi continued, pretending not to notice. "I will approve your leave for the next month. If you plan on traveling please let us know. Is there anything else to report?"
Tenten raised her hand, and upon Kakashi's nod, she explained, "During our mission, we ran into genin Team Eight."
Sakura was surprised, but Kakashi couldn't believe he overlooked that, but nodded for her to continue. Tenten reports, "Due to the action of said team, we almost discovered and placed us, and our charge, in a very dangerous position. We managed to avoid this turning into a political issue and improvised our way through the mission."
Kakashi nodded seriously, glancing at his stacks of papers on the left, before looking back at the kunoichi, "So a complaint?"
Tenten shrugged, replying, "Nothing official. Though, a stern reminder that unknown seals found in the field should not be touched by unlicensed individuals. They were lucky this time as it was one of ours, relatively harmless, and we had been monitoring it."
Kakashi nodded firmly, that was a very stupid thing to do, though he supposed genin wouldn't know any better. Hinata was their sensei, she should have known better and instructed them not to touch a seal she couldn't identify. Probably one of Naruto and Tenten's many innovative love children so no way those outside the squad could identify it.
After those thoughts, Kakashi replied, "I will mention it when they come in for their debrief. Any idea when that will be?"
The Team all shook their heads in the negative, Tenten speaking for them. "We split from them in Jime Town on the south coast. We escorted our target back to the capital before returning. It could be anytime now."
Kakashi nodded, before looking over the squad, "Okay Team. You are dismissed."
With a salute, the four Jonin bodyflicker out, which snapped Sakura into action as she wanted to speak to Naruto about Karin. Yet she was so busy trying to keep up with everything, their wasn't time to jump in. Instead she turned to her former sensei, Sakura asking, "Sensei, how long has Naruto been on Team Thirty-seven?"
Kakashi is Kakashi, trolling is the name of the game, thus responded casually, "Oh, about a mission. Why?"
Sakura glared at him, "Sensei, they were way too coordinated to be a single mission team."
Kakashi just shrugged, "Dunno what to tell you Sakura. They are all capable Jonin now, so working with their fellows is something they take pride in."
Sakura just sighed, as she rubbed her brow, before muttering, "Fine. Don't tell me. Just sign the documents. I have more work to do."
Though, as soon as she's done here, she'll tell her husband that Naruto was back in the village and no doubt confront him about the issue with Karin. No. Maybe she best do it. Prevent a fight. That sound more reasonable.
Kakashi could literally see the gears turning in his students head, and was purposely not rushing through this. He knew Naruto knew. So, if taking his time would by his favourite student a few minutes before the fan hits the shit. So be it.
A/N: I actually had to shorten this a bit. Testing the waters with adult content and preparing to expand the team a bit more with their time off. Exploring the relationships of the other characters and the main four.
I plan on keep this storyline simple. Their mission are nothing fancy, no saving the world, nation, village, level missions but rather just showcasing their teamwork, unique traits, and connections with various important figures.
o7
