AN-1: Hello All and welcome back with a new chapter. We will begin with some events happening in Fire Country and move back to our heroes. I have chosen Naruto's Summons, also the mini arc I brought up is from the Naruto Game Naruto Shippūden: Kizuna Drive. Lastly 2nd Prince Ieyasu Oda will look like Tokugawa Ieyasu from Sengoku Basara for reference.
"Speaking"
Summon/Biju
Shadow Soldier
[..Pause ...Long Pause]
シーンブレイク(Scene Break)
Disclaimer: I Own NOTHING
Edit: 4/19/24: fixing some mistakes like misspellings, missing words I missed a few read throughs or adding some content.
Chappy 3
#Land of Fire#
The death of fire daimyo Hideyoshi Oda was a shock to many in fire country but also other countries as well as the man was fair to both friend and foe. However now with his death the country falls into a succession war between his two sons nobutatsu the oldest and ieyasu the youngest. Nobutatsu is a man filled with greed and ambition while ieyasu is fair, honorable and heroic. The hidden village of konoha found itself in the middle of the brothers but both princes decided to not fight with their country's hidden village due oaths taken by konoha. Instead the brothers fought with samurai and onna-musha but nobutatsu had the clandestine involvement of the darker elements of konoha in the form of danzo shimura.
Ieyasu had rallied many in the court to his side but nobutatsu had many on his side as well. The daimyo's court is filled with deceivers and liars, people who spoke in honeyed words and have the blackest of hearts but ieyasu could weed out these serpents. Fire country as a whole was wholly affected by the succession war with konoha continuing to take missions but many could feel the unease under the surface. The brothers did not live the capital of Edo but instead in their domains of Akimitsuwari for nobutatsu and Owari for ieyasu. The latter to the east of fire country with ample farms, mines, fishing and shipping to create a bastion of stability.
The battles between brothers makes the country begin to take sides but it is the brothers' action that were making the difference. Nobutatsu cared not for the common people or warriors under his advisors' commands, towns used by his forces were filled with unscrupulous actions by bandits or missing-nin to create refugees fleeing to various other places. On the other side ieyasu aides everyone and builds places for refugees that arrive in territories under his control. He has his men and women deal with banditry and missing-nin as best they can, even getting some to join his side. Other nations were watching this succession battle between brothers with keen interest but soon a powerful ally would join ieyasu oda.
シーンブレイク
The sounds of swords clanging echo in the courtyard of the castle of prince ieyasu oda within owari lands. The mid-twenties prince has done everything to improve owari from when he took over some years ago. Improved farming techniques, improved health care facilities, a small and bubbling industrial sector that has propelled the region of owari into an economic hub. His other ventures like the soup kitchens, his cracking down on banditry and corruption have won him the love of the people of his lands but his other territories as well.
"Your Skill with the sword rivals my Generals" ieyasu says, sword in hand. He stands nearly six feet with a slight muscular body from training, sharp dark eyes and a short black-haired mane. He wears no shirt with dark hakama pants and calf high boot having segmented shin guards.
"Thank you Princes Ieyasu" says one tenten higarashi or simply tenten now. The eighteen-year-old has come a long way since her heated argument with her father concerning naruto and his disappearance. She believed her father was on naruto's side but it was a facade and caused her leave. Her leaving konoha had been the right choice as now she is a student of one of the legendary sannin and her idol Tsunade Senju. Their meeting was one of chance but the mention of naruto brought them together. Ieyasu sheathes his sword with a sign of trust and respect in their culture, "It's not just your skill Tenten but your determination.. You remind me that each one of us has a role in forging our village's destiny" he says, wiping his brow.
"It's been a tough journey Prince Ieyasu.. But seeing how you lead.. How you never waiver... It inspires me" tenten says, balancing her stance. Ieyasu nods with an understanding the unspoken hardships she refers to, "This village.. Our people.. We have survived through much.. It's the bonds we share.. The resolve to protect each other.. That has always seen us through. And now more than ever.. We need that unity" he says, a moment of silence passes between them.
"How is Lady Momo doing" tenten asks, her signature panda buns cover by white silk brocades. She also wears a white sleeveless, high-collar qipao dress with red trimmings and a pink flame pattern on the left, tied with a maroon obi. Underneath she has white-black leggings, black high-heel boots and arm-length black fingerless gloves.
"She is well.. Lady Tsunade and Lady Shizune are taking good care of her.. I cannot believe I'll be a father" ieyasu says, his voice a mixture of pride and incredulity. He knows his brother will sooner or later find out about his wife's pregnancy, meaning he needs to win this succession war. It wasn't fought on a grand scale with ninja, instead this war is being fought with soldiers having pikes, swords or bows led by samurai. Unlike the samurai of iron country, these samurai were less in number but stronger. They use their chakra to create aura blades and use various swords arts that were like jutsu.
"Meaning you need to win this War" a voice says and both sees tsunade standing on the landing. The blonde is a beauty despite being nearly fifty with straight blonde hair that parts above her forehead. Her hair has shoulder-length bangs that frame her face and the rest reaches her lower back. Her eyes are honey-brown and she has a purple rhombus on her forehead. She wears grey, kimono-style blouse with short sleeves and a broad, dark bluish-grey obi that matches her pants. Her blouse is closed quite low, revealing her sizeable cleavage and wears open-toe, strapped black sandals.
"I plan to Lady Tsunade... How is Momo" ieyasu says, bowing to tenten to end their spar.
"She is doing well but her morning sickness is a something to keep an eye on" tsunade says, before taking a sip from a jug of sake hanging from a strap.
"I will go check on her" ieyasu says and both bow to him.
"The Kid has what it takes to be Daimyo" tsunade muses.
"Not if the First Prince has anything to say about it" tenten says, her brows furrowing in concern.
"Add Danzo Shimura as well.. That One-eyed Bastard is aiding him behind Sensei's back" tsunade says, her tone dripping with disdain as she takes a seat while the weight of their situation seemingly pressing down on her.
"Though we have no evidence Sensei" tenten says, sitting next to her and her voice carrying a note of caution.
"Maybe... Konoha is staying out this Succession War but are prepared to support the Prince that gains the advantage and wins... Which puts us in a Precarious position as Konoha ninja" tsunade says but smirks, "Which is why Shizune and I are no longer Konoha Ninja.. It sucks to lose my Travel rights as a Sannin but I'm not going sit idly by as people die" she adds and tenten smiles but thoughts drift to a certain blond.
"Do you wonder where he is" tenten muses. Tsunade looks to the clouds in the sky, "I do but if Kushina did what she intended.. He's building his army and making a name for himself" she muses with a hint of pride and hope in her voice.
シーンブレイク
"Hidden Dream Village" mei says, breaking the silence that hangs between them like a thick fog. Naruto, mei, karin and blue were making their way to the hidden dream village for a job commissioned by ruler of the area concerning said village.
"Jito Okkiku Matsumoto is worried about the Succession War going on and the First Prince deciding he needs to have the edge in battle" naruto explains, sharing the details of their mission.
"What's a Jito" karin asks, tinged with curiosity.
"It's a Low Noble and granted land to govern.. Paying a certain amount of money in taxes to the Daimyo" mei explains, her voice confident and steady.
"And with the Daimyo dead and his sons going to war.. Things are precarious here in Fire Country" naruto says, concern lacing his tone.
"Which we're walking into" mei comments nonchalantly, her gaze fixed on the path ahead. It's been about four months since meeting team-gai and were now in fire country doing free-lance work, overhearing rumors about the princes and their actions.
"Seems Prince Ieyasu is pretty much like my mother said but Prince Nobutatsu is the older and has some skilled Samurai despite Konoha not getting involved" naruto says, a hint of admiration in his voice for the strategic prowess the prince seemed to possess. Mei glances to him with a thoughtful look, "Your mother had insight into nobility and their games.. It's fascinating and yet here we are.. Caught somewhat in the middle doing freelance work... It taking us to interesting places" she says.
"Mom knew a lot about a lot according to her Journal. Makes me wonder what else we'll find out here.. With the Princess fighting and Konoha staying neutral.. It's a messy situation" naruto says, his blue eyes reflecting a mix of emotions.
"Neutral or not.. Our path crosses with these squabbles.. We'll need to be more cautious now.. In case Konoha ninja happen to see you" mei says and naruto nods, touching his black hair. A few days later they were in yumegakure that has a collage of numerous nagaya or longhouses, each home sharing communal facilities. This quaint village was nestled in a flat valley, hugged tightly by embracing forests with a bridged river that dissected it neatly in half.
"So Fire Country has two Ninja villages" karin says, her tone carrying a mix of surprise and intrigue as they meandered along the cobblestone paths that snaked through the village.
"Apparently but Yumegakure is not considered an official Ninja village" naruto says, as they search out the village leader's home. Karin has a sense of curiosity burning within her as the idea of a village outside the traditional shinobi system intrigues her and wonders what unique customs or secrets yumegakure holds within its heart. They soon find it and it is the compound of the Tenro clan, "This reminds me of the Inuzuka compound" mikoto says, as naruto sees wolves at the main gate with bladed weapons on their backs.
"Halt!.. Who are you!" one guard challenges, stepping forward with a firm stance.
"My name is Phantom or Menma and I was hired by Jito Okkiku Matsumoto to discuss certain matters" naruto says, pulling a scroll with okkiku's sigil from his coat. The guard's eyes narrow and scrutinizes the scroll before signaling with a nod, "Follow us" he commands and turns on his heel as another guard falling into step beside him, leading them inside the compound. The atmosphere shifts palpably as those inside paused their activities to cast suspicious glances their way, the air thick with unspoken questions and look upon the three with suspicion in their eyes but the three plus wolf pup ignore them.
"Lord Enzo will meet you in moment" the guard says, putting them in a meeting room. Naruto sits on a cushion before a slightly raised section about ten feet from them with mei on his left and karin on his right, blue sitting in her lap with curious tilts of her head. A few minutes later a large and bulky man with grey spiky hair enter followed by a young woman. His attire consists of a grey sleeveless kimono shirt with a collar lining of dark blue fur. A hitai-ate in the shape of happuri face guard and the symbol of ZZZ on it, a red scarf around his neck with round stone ornament attached and brown pants having leg warmers in matching fur.
"I am Enzo Tenro and this is my daughter Ryuka" the man says, his voice steady and commanding. She has messy purple hair, amber eyes and has red marking under each eye with a happuri face guard but has two extensions upward. She wears a sleeveless pink kimono with a furry collar and a necklace consisting of rings attached together by red strings, ending with a tassel to the left. She wears furry wristbands on each wrist followed by bandages that go up to her elbows. She also wears a short violet skirt and dark brown pants that have furry endings right below her knees, the rest being bandaged up.
"I am Menma Uesugi and this Ringo.. Rin and Blue" naruto says, removing his mask to reveal purple contacts.
"You were sent by Jito Matsumoto" enzo says and naruto nods, holding up the scroll. Ryuka moves towards them and takes the scroll from him before checking for traps, "Here Father" she says, reaching him. Enzo opens the scroll and begins reading the contents that jito matsumoto has reason to believe Gensui Amagiri has aligned with prince nobutatsu in seeking the Three-Headed Guardian Beast or Cerberus for himself to win the succession war.
"How can Jito Matsumoto believe this?!.. Gensui is a trusted ally.. His son is engaged to my daughter" enzo says.
"I do not know.. We were simply tasked with delivering the scroll" naruto says.
"I agree with Father.. Elder Gensui would not do such a thing.. Perhaps this some sort of trick!" ryuka says but enzo raises his hand.
"This is indeed Jito Matsumoto sigil and signature" enzo says and having disbelief lacing his voice but looks to naruto, "You will accompany my daughter and I to speak to Gensui.. Those two will remain here" he adds. Naruto glances to karin and mei with his hidden eyes moving back to enzo, "If that is your wish" naruto says. Tenro ninja come in to sequester mei and karin while naruto follows enzo with ryuka, "I do Not trust you" she says, her voice steady but yet ripe with an unspoken challenge.
"That is your decision" naruto says, a hint of understanding in his tone. His response is measured and devoid of animosity, reveals a level of patience and wisdom not commonly found in one his age.
"I've heard of you Phantom.. You cut your teeth in Mist's Civil War" enzo says but naruto says nothing. The three leave the village proper and head of the Hill of Illusions, giving one a clear vantage point of the surrounding area and the Forests of Mythic Beasts. The forest itself has a heavy mist and visibility is not very far, "Reminds me of when I was training you Brat" zabuza comments.
"Don't remind me.. You made me stand in your Hidden Mist for hours to get use to fighting in it.. If not for being the Shadow Monarch.. I would've been completely blind" naruto thought, seeing large insects around their perimeter as they travel through the forest.
"Why have you come Lord Enzo" a voice says, slicing through the tension that filled the air like a sharp knife.
"Taisa.. I'm here to see your father" enzo says, his voice steady and unwavering. There is a silence, a pause in which the weight of his words seemed to settle over them, before a young man appears from the shadows with his gaze wary yet curious. He has short brown hair and several pinkish-red markings on his face. He wears a samurai-like attire of the same colour as his markings with some purple and white. He has two purple shoulder-guards, loose, dark grey pants with some yellow on the left leg tucked in bandages wrapped around his lower legs and wears the unique sandals his clan.
"What about Enzo" gensui says, appearing next to his son with his voice as grounded and ancient as the earth itself. He has is an elderly man with very long white hair some of which is pointed up, the rest is straight and tied into two loose, thick ponytails behind his back and has two strands framing his face with a small goatee. He wears a samurai-like attire that has spots reddish-pink and purple with iron and gold plating. He wears brown pants tucked into bandages wrapped around his lower legs and the unique sandals of the amagiri.
"It's like they Knew we were coming" mikoto says, sensing the unease that started to creep into their midst.
"Jito Okkiku Matsumoto has sent sensitive information" enzo says, a clear sign of respect and urgency woven into his gaze. Taisa looks to his father and seeks counsel in his silence while a storm brews behind the calm facade of the older man's exterior, "I thought I would have more time" gensui finally admits, his words heavy with a resignation that spoke volumes of the challenges they were about to face.
"More time?!" enzo repeats but his words are quickly swallowed by chuckling that seems to echo from all around them. They quickly find themselves encircled by a dozen or so soldiers. The group is led by a strikingly good-looking young man, clad in black and purple samurai armor. A pair of short swords rest in his hands and his long white hair dances in the breeze, his purple eyes shining with an unsettling glee.
"Gensui?!" enzo stammers, disbelief and confusion painting his features. Gensui merely grins with a bitter twist to his lips as he watches enzo's dawning realization.
"Poor Enzo.. You believed in Gensui when he despised you for the fall of his clan" the samurai says, amusement clear in his tone as taisa moves next to ryuka in shock. Enzo's face falls as his expression is a mixture of betrayal and pain. He looks from the samurai to gensui, seeking some sign of denial but finds none.
"Mitsuhide is correct.. The Tenro persecuted and banished of the Amagiri to this forest.. While your clan ruled... However that time is over.. Once I unseal the Three-Heads.. Lord Nobutatsu will crush that arrogant upstart" gensui says and raises a half-ram sign. Ryuka freezes and her eyes dim as gensui chuckles with a look to his son, "Taisa.. Take her to the Three-Heads shrine" gensui says.
"Yes Father" taisa says, grabbing ryuka from behind and vanishing. Gensui's treachery hangs heavily in the air as enzois overcome with disbelief and struggles to find his voice, "Gensui... Y-you traitor!" enzo says, pointing his staff at the man he once believed to be an ally.
"Leave them to me and go unseal Cerberus and my Lord will pay you handsomely" mitsuhide says and gensui vanishes, leaving enzo and the others to face their grim fate.
"Phantom... I am in need of your help" enzo says, desperation tinging his voice.
"No problem... Just tell don't anyone what you're about to see" naruto says, as his shadow aura flares out. Enzo and mitsuhide's men were shocked by naruto's army but mitsuhide ignores this as the battlefield tense with both sides eyeing the other warily. Mitsuhide shoots towards naruto with a smile as the hidden blond says arise and his soldiers rise before he blocks mitsuhide's attack with zabimaru.
"Tenrō-Ryū Ninjutsu: Jūjinka no Jutsu!" enzo shouts, transforming himself into a werewolf like creature.
"You managed to block me" mitsuhide says, his tone laced with a mix of surprise and respect. Naruto back jumps and swings zabimaru with a whip strike but mitsuhide avoids it with his eyes sharp and movements even sharper, closing in with his sword crossed and naruto somersaults over his strike. He swaps out zabimaru for inari's fangs as mitsuhide smirks, "Those are beautiful weapons.. I look forward to using them" mitsuhide says, shooting forward and naruto does the same. Both meet in furious clash with sparks flying but naruto sees chakra humming along mitsuhide's sword and uses kawarimi with a log to avoid a slash of chakra.
"You avoided my Aura Blade" mitsuhide says, a hint of intrigue in his voice.
"Interesting technique" naruto says, his inari's wrath in reverse grips. Mitsuhide lowers his stance and blitzes forward using the reduced earth technique but spins rapidly three time, attempting to slash naruto three times but the hidden blond blocks all three.
"Fast but not fast enough" naruto quips, a slight smirk on his face. Mitsuhide's eyes narrow slightly but is impressed despite himself, "Your skills are commendable.. It's not often I find someone who can keep up" he admits, reassessing naruto with newfound interest. Mitsuhide tries to confuse naruto by rapidly alternating between fast and slow movements but naruto uses the mist to his advantage by making it thicker.
"Have you ever killed someone by making no sound" naruto says, his voice echoing eerily through the mist. Mitsuhide only scoffs and swiftly moving to counter naruto's unpredictable tactics, "I prefer to hear the screams of my victims," mitsuhide retorts, blocking naruto's strike from his right with a quick sidestep.
"Duly Noted" naruto says, landing a glancing blow to mitsuhide's thigh and slicing through his armor as if it were made of paper.
"He cut through my armor?!" mitsuhide thought in shock, feeling the sting of the wound.
"You're probably wondering how I cut through your armor" naruto says, his voice coming from seemingly everywhere as the mist thickens around them. Mitsuhide swings blindly with a backhand strike but hits nothing but air as naruto chuckles, "These daggers are special" the hidden blond says. Mitsuhide stifles a cry of pain as naruto slashes his outstretched left leg and vanishes back into the mist, "Let's try something.. I'll strike you in Ten seconds" naruto says, from the mist.
"10.. 9.. 8.. 7.. 6.. 5.. 4.. 3.. 2... 1" naruto says and appears in front of mitsuhide. Mitsuhide crosses his sword in a scissor like motion to cut the hidden blond's carotid arteries but it turns out to be an illusion of naruto, "This trickery... It's child's play!" mitsuhide exclaims, attempting to hide the rising panic in his voice.
"Almost... 10.. 9.. 8.. 7.. 6.. 5.. 4.. 3.. 2... 1" naruto says, adding his bloodlust to the mist. His presence seems to loom closer until suddenly he slashes mitsuhide in the back and slips back into the mist, "10.. 9.. 8.. 7.. 6.. 5.. 4.. 3.. 2... 1" naruto says, from mitsuhide's left but the samurai swings.
"Sword Art: Wind Cutter!" mitsuhide shouts, desperation edging into his voice as he swings his swords like a vortex. It slashes through naruto but he crackles with lightning and electrifies the samurai, "10.. 9.. 8.. 7.. 6.. 5.. 4.. 3.. 2... 1" naruto says, as if mocking the samurai. Mitsuhide whirls around trying to anticipate from where naruto will strike next with each number but the slashes never come from the expected direction, leaving mitsuhide frustrated and wounded. A testament to naruto's elusive tactics and the unique, eerie battleground the mist has become.
"Face me Head-on!" mitsuhide shouts, seemingly losing his composure a bit but his face explodes with blood. Naruto's voice cuts through the mist with a cool and mocking tone, "Is that fear I hear in your voice Mitsuhide.. I thought you were braver than that" he says, seemingly right next to mitsuhide.
"You Bastard!.. It'll take more than tricks to defeat me Phantom.. I will have my revenge!" mitsuhide shouts, his right eye missing as he swings right.
"Alright... I attack you head-on in 10.. 9.. 8.. 7.. 6.. 5.. 4.. 3.. 2... 1" naruto says, voice oddly solemn amid the tension. Mitsuhide focuses in front of him and sees the hidden blond coming with his heart races, adrenaline pumping, a desperate plan forming in his mind. Mitsuhide throws both sword at the charging naruto, hitting the end of the first one with the second one for an extra boost. The second sword is hidden directly behind the first to make on believe only one is in their line of sight.
"This is the end for you!" mitsuhide shouts. Naruto parries the first and not the second as it pierces his left eye but he collapses into a puddle of water.
"What kind of trickery is this?!" mitsuhide shouts, panting heavily and scans the area.
"Game over" naruto says, slitting mitsuhide's throat. He staggers forward and clutches his throat as inari's poison ends his life before crashing to the ground.
"Arise" naruto says, spreading his aura and raising all the dead. He searches out enzo and finds the man being guarded by spot with a few low rank soldiers, "Go after them.. You must stop Gensui.. The Three-heads prison is ahead" enzo says, pointing to his right.
"I'll stop him" naruto says, ordering spot to continue guarding and the tank smirks. He races through the forest towards the cerberus' prison and encounters several amagiri ninja but the hidden blond makes short work of them. He soon reaches a cave entrance that is glowing red but taisa appears at the entrance.
"You will not stop my Father's ambition" taisa says but naruto flexes his bloodlust and he falls to the ground.
"Your father's ambition will bring about the deaths of many innocents.. I won't let that happen" naruto says, walking pass the frozen taisa and into the cave. The cave's interior reveals a treacherous layout of lava pools with dark stalactites and stalagmites creating an ominous atmosphere.
"Is this like a Volcano" naruto says, navigating past the hazardous lava pools with ease.
"Perhaps" mikoto says. Naruto picks up speed and sees ryuka in front of a pedestal with a blue orb but gensui is next to her, "You are too Late!" gensui shouts, his tone dripping with malice. The prison surrounding the pedestal glows ominously and pulsating with a dark energy, then explodes outward to release cerberus but blows ryuka towards a lava pool as naruto catches her.
"So.. This the Three-Heads Cerberus" gensui declares, a twisted grin spreading across his face. Cerberus is a giant monster with a body similar to that of a lion and three different heads. Its skin is mostly white and has dark purple on several places, including the underbelly. It has beige armor above the main head of a lion on which there are several small, red markings and a row of spikes. The other two heads of a wolf and a dog come out of each side of the armour. It has light yellow-green markings under each head's small eyes and thin sharp teeth.
"Now Three-Heads.. You will serve Lord Nobutatsu in crushing All his enemies!" gensui shouts with a manic confidence but the creature bites down into him. Cerberus explodes in power as naruto rushes out the cave with ryuka in his arms while the three-head grows in size and breaks out of the cave. Its entire body becomes covered in dark grey armour with pinkish-red markings on several places. Its original armour increases in size and gains spikes on the end of its tail, as well as pink armour on its underbelly. The necks of the three heads now seem to be composed on thick tissues and are much longer. The heads themselves are covered in purple armour with several spikes and red markings and their rows of teeth are larger now.
"W-what have I done" ryuka says, now awake and seeing cerberus with panic and guilt washing over her face.
"Don't worry.. I have two that can handle it... Arise" naruto says, summoning isobu and inari as both grow to the size of cerberus. Six clones pop to life and the hidden blond nods as each vanish to prepare for his heavy artillery. Isobu and inari keep the attention of cerberus as a seventh clone takes ryuka to her father but she sees several fireballs flying towards the sky in the form of dragon heads. Naruto fires several blasts of magic to further distract the monster while isobu slams into it. In the sky dark clouds begin to form in the sky and rains begins fall with mixtures of lightning followed by thunder.
"Now then" naruto thought, beginning to release chakra to mingle with rain as he begins a lengthy chain of signs. Isobu grabs cerberus from behind with his arms while inari does the same with his tails, grabbing the three-heads' outer heads as it growls and struggles.
"Hijutsu: Kamishini no Yari!" naruto shouts and thick white spear of lightning comes from the cloudy sky to pierce cerberus center mass, lighting up the area in flash of light. The light dies down and cerberus lays motionless with a large smoldering hole while naruto approaches as his hidden blue eyes glow purple, "Arise" he says but nothing happens and he focuses, "Arise" he utters. The three-heads twitches a few times and its shadow rises while the original body breaks down into ashes with another power shadow at his disposal.
シーンブレイク
"Mitsuhide is dead" mutters a beautiful woman. She is Miyako Toyomiya and mother of first prince nobutatsu, her family being one of the most influential in the land of fire. Her family keeping her son's bid for the throne alive and it is not going well due to her son's public image. Her family naturally believed nobutatsu would become fire lord but many nobles in court were hitching their horse to ieyasu.
"Yes.. His spies reported that Phantom was involved in the Three-Heads debacle" nobutatsu says. He is a handsome man with brown hair and dark eyes wearing expensive robes.
"Phantom could spell trouble for us... Should he join Ieyasu" miyako says, the worry creasing her forehead. The strategic mind of miyako is always at work, pondering the possible moves in the intricate chess game of their political landscape. Nobutatsu takes a hit off his kiseru with a sigh, "Everyone has a price.. Throw enough money at him and he'll eagerly assist me and we can recoup our money by killing him to collect his bounty" he says, the wheels turning in his head as he considers the angles of this new plan.
"Have our backer track his movements and have Hanbei meet him" miyako says, her voice calm yet carrying an undercurrent of urgency.
"Speaking of him" nobutatsu starts and miyako's perks up, "Inform him I'll support his bid for Hokage... When I take the throne.. Sarutobi's neutrality is foolish" he adds, his tone one of disdain for the current state of affairs.
"There are oaths in place.. Shimura is backing us but Do Not underestimate his Greed" miyako, offering a piece of wisdom borne of experience. Her cautionary words hang in the air, serving as a reminder of the delicate balance they need to maintain.
"Shimura needs me much more than I need him.. I know he supports me only because he wishes to see himself as the next Hokage.. A choice which now lies in the hands of whoever ascends to the throne" nobutatsu says, his voice imbued with a mixture of certainty and disdain. Three months would pass and nobutatsu's bid for the throne diminishes each day as akimitsuwari has small riots beginning to happen.
"Where is Phantom?!" nobutatsu says, his frustration palpable in the air. A masked ninja is kneeling on one knee with her head down, "We lost track of him.. His movements are erratic" she says in a drawl and robotic tone. Nobutatsu clenches his fist in his robe as his frustrations grow, "Hanbei offered him enough for a Lifetime and he refused.. The Nerve of this commoner and his whores" he thought and looks to the masked liaison, "I want him dead.. Place a Large bounty on his head" he says, through gritted teeth but the masked woman shakes her head.
"That will not be possible for the time being.. Locating and Attacking Phantom at this juncture is not possible" the Ne says.
"What do you mean it isn't possible?!.. The lot of You are killers and yet you can't even kill…" nobutatsu begins.
"Nobutatsu!" miyako cuts, sharply and halts him mid-sentence as their eyes meet. Nobutatsu slowly calms down as miyako looks to the Ne operative, "Leave us" she orders and the woman vanishes, leaving mother and son.
"What have I told you about dealing with such Ninja" miyako chastises and he grits his teeth as he get up and waves away dismissively.
"I know you warn me to be careful when dealing with such people.. Yet she is nothing but a mindless killing machine made to take orders" nobutatsu said, having learned already the value of the masked people serving under danzo shimura.
"Mindless as they may be but you must remember that they don't serve at your pleasure but under the commands of Danzo Shimura" miyako says, warning him.
"Then perhaps another avenue" nobutatsu says and his mother arches one of her delicate eyebrows, "The Hebi Sannin... Orochimaru" he adds, shocking her.
"Orochimaru?!.. You would involve yourself with a snake" miyako's says, her voice is filled with disbelief and her usually composed demeanor giving way to concern.
"He may be a snake but he is a snake with powers and connections that even Danzo may think twice before crossing" nobutatsu argues, his mind already considering the possibilities that orochimaru's assistance could offer. Miyako sighs with her gaze softening, "Just remember.. Dealing with Orochimaru is akin to dancing with a viper.. You must always be prepared for the bite" she warns. Nobutatsu nods and takes his mother's warning to heart but his determination does not waver, "I understand the risks.. But for the sake of reaching the Throne.. I am willing to take them" he asserts, his eyes holding a resolve that mirrors his mother's strength. Miyako reluctantly concedes due to knowing her son's stubbornness all too well, "Then proceed but proceed with caution" she advises, her voice imbued with a mixture of worry and trust.
シーンブレイク
"Four Aces" naruto says, showing his cards. Seven groans echo across the table with tosses of cards as the hidden blond pulls his chips towards him. He is currently in the basement of a mansion in an endless rock poker game. He, karin and mei were in tanzaku-gai about a week ago as he was cleaning out a few casinos, that got him a invite to this game. It has been nearly twenty-four hours since the game has started and he has been doing well.
"Not bad Phantom" one man says, unable to hide his surprised admiration. He is a good-looking man with messy silver hair and green eyes, dressed in a black three-piece suit and white gloves. The man's tone is rich with begrudging respect, a smirk playing at the edges of his lips as he leans back in his chair, eyeing naruto with a mix of curiosity and challenge.
"Thanks" naruto says. He is wearing white, wide-leg pants with two black belts, leather shoes and a black turtleneck, a small, open, lapel-less waistcoat patterned with alternating circles and lightning bolts. A high collared white trench coat with the sleeves rolled up having a blue and white tessellated cuffs.
"You look good in white Sweetie" mikoto says but naruto ignores her. Three bow out due to being out of money or valuables to sell with one selling herself to pay for her debts.
"Is this how Nobles spend their money" naruto thought, a hint of disgust lurking beneath the surface of his stoic expression. The cards are passed out once again as naruto has a ten and ace of spades while he places his chips for the pot. Everyone places their bets with eyes darting between their cards and their opponents, "Raise Ten Thousand" the good-looking guy says with a confident tilt of his head, immediately causing one player to fold. Three cards are placed on the table after everyone places their bets, "King.. Queen and Jack of Spades.. Royal Flush" naruto thought, his expression unchanging and revealing nothing of his impending victory.
"You're a Shinobi right Phantom" the good-looking guy says, his voice casual but the underlying intensity clear. The room goes quiet as the tension palpable as all eyes turn to Naruto.
"I dabble in it.. Mr. Hiki" naruto says, maintaining a calm demeanor despite the sudden attention and hiki smiles with a snapping his fingers. A surly looking man approaches with large scroll about four feet height and hiki smiles, "Apparently this some sort of Summon Contract.. I got it at an auction for about 100,000 with some other things.. I'll bet this to raise 100,000" hiki says, his smile never wavering. The others at the murmur as there were two more cards to be played but quickly fold while naruto pushes in all chips, "All-In then" he says, while a tension begins to ramp up as the next card is placed down.
"How about we go further Phantom" hiki says and unbuttons his coat, pulling out two revolvers with a seven-and-a-half-inch barrel(Colt Single Action Army .45). It has a frosty nickel finish and ivory grips but one could also see whirlpool engraving on it as well.
"I got these two at the auction as well.. Apparently the Uzumaki clan that was wiped years ago had some of these.. These are worth 250,000... A piece" hiki says, with an arrogant smile on his face. Naruto leans back with a slow exhale and a roll of his neck, "You have a Royal Straight Flush.. He has Nothing to beat you" mikoto says and the hidden blond reaches for his mask.
"How about this.. I don't think my Bounty covers 500,000 but you can tell the world you Killed Phantom" naruto says, slipping it off to reveal his face and places the mask on the table. The room's atmosphere is thick with suspense, every patron holding their breath, waiting to see how this high-stakes game will end. Hiki stares at the mask but then to naruto's face before flipping the guns to handle first and places on the table, "Alright.. Let's show them" he says, revealing a full house aces over kings. Sharp gasps echo through the room while hiki has this smug smile on his face but the look quickly vanishes and his eyes widen in shock.
"Royal Straight Flush.. Ten to Ace of Spades" naruto says, grabbing his mask and slipping it back on his face. He rises from the table and looks to the dealer, "I'll take my chips in cash" naruto says, grabbing the revolvers to slip them into his coat pockets and rounds the table to grab the scroll but the surly man blocks him.
"Let him go Corkis" hiki says and naruto grabs the scroll, "Congratulations" he adds, his voice tinged with resignation yet respect.
"Thank you" naruto says, hefting the scroll under his left arm. He heads upstairs to await his money and thirty minutes later he is leaving the mansion with a silver briefcase. He about halfway from the mansion when he encounters corkis with several masked men.
"You are to return Lord Hiki's belongings" corkis demands sternly.
"They aren't His belongings anymore.. I won them fair and square" naruto says.
"I was only fooling around.. I never meant to bet those items" hiki admits, emerging from the shadows behind the masked blond. Naruto adjusts the large scroll under his arm with a small sigh, "But you did.. You were hoping I would fold like everyone else but the Card Gods were on my side and not on yours.. Now I need to a shower and some rest" he says, asserting his claim over his winnings.
"Just hand those item back to me and keep the money you've won" hiki bargains, trying to find an amicable resolution.
"I'll have to decline.. A summon contract is a valuable thing to Shinobi and these revolvers are from a powerful clan.. You certainly don't need them" naruto says, his voice firm and eyes keenly observing the opponents behind his mask.
"It doesn't matter.. They're mine" hiki says and tosses the briefcase towards hiki.
"You can have the money I won and these are mine" naruto says, steadfast in his resolve as corkis brandishes a knife and charges at him. Naruto immediately unleashes his bloodlust and freezes all in place with hiki in a cold sweat as he surrounded by darkness, "Why are you so driven to get these items back" the hidden blond says, his voice echoing with a hidden depth as he confronts the terrified hiki.
"T-they are mine" hiki says, his voice barely above a whisper and betraying his fear. Naruto removes his mask to show his glowing purple eyes, "Aunt Miko" he says and mikoto rises to use her eyes on him. Hiki spills his guts at this was a second attempt by nobutatsu to get the blond on his side against ieyasu.
"All this makes me want to side with the 2nd Prince" naruto says, his statement hanging in the air like a silent but irrefutable challenge.
"Kushina's instincts were right concerning the former Daimyo's sons" mikoto says, a slight wrinkle marring her face as she glances over at hiki as he has visibly lost control of himself out of sheer terror.
"I guess we're heading to Owari" naruto says, turning on his heels and leaving the dazed men behind but also the money. He heads back to his hotel for a much needed shower, letting karin and mei sleep by using stealth with a soundproof seal. The blond crashes on the floor as soon as he hits his sleeping bag but they were being watched by a black raven.
"You won a Summon Contract at a Poker Game" karin says, the next morning during breakfast with her voice laced with disbelief and a hint of admiration.
"Pretty much and two Uzumaki revolvers as well" naruto says, bring out both from his inventory.
"Do they work like your rifle" mei asks, her curiosity piqued and leans in closer to get a better look at the firearms with her eyes scanning them thoroughly.
"I'll need to check" naruto says, putting them back into inventory. The three finish their breakfast and checkout of the hotel to hit the road once again but for owari lands this time.
"Makes you wonder what else you could win in those games" karin muses aloud, breaking the silence that has fallen over them as they walk.
"Or what you could lose" mei adds, her tone more sober but also a subtle reminder of the stakes involved in the shinobi world. They make a stop a few hours later as naruto begins to unfurl the summon scroll in a field about a half mile from the road.
"Ravens" karin says, looking over naruto's shoulder as they settle in the area where naruto can test the summoning contract.
"Seems so" naruto says, observing with a mix of intrigue and wariness.
"Itachi has Crows.. Ravens should be similar" mikoto says, from his shadow.
"Sign in Blood.. Sign in Blood Shadow Monarch" a voice says and all of them look around but the source is a female raven landing in front of them.
"Did you say that" karin says, her eyes wide with surprise at the talking raven.
"Yes.. Sign Shadow Monarch.. Sign Shadow Monarch" the raven says, squawking a little.
"How do you know I'm the Shadow Monarch" naruto says, his curiosity piqued and looking at the raven with renewed interest.
"Ravens Emissaries.. Raven Emissaries.. Have Gifts for Shadow Monarch" the raven insists, hopping closer. Naruto removes his left glove and bites his index finger to begin signing his name under a Yoshikage Uzumaki but mei notices more raven appearing.
"Summoner.. Summoner.. Shadow Monarch.. Shadow Monarch.. Shadow Monarch" numerous raven cawing in unison, creating an eerie yet awe-inspiring atmosphere.
"Summon" the raven before him says. Naruto sighs as he begins weaving the signs of Boar, Dog, Bird, Monkey and Ram.
"Kuchiyose no Jutsu" naruto says but the blond vanishes. He find himself standing in the clearing of a dark forest, an amalgam of sounds echoing from various places like howls, whispers, the rustling of leaves and even the unintelligible chatter of unknown beings that simulate the presence of people hidden within the shadows.
"Are you the New Shadow Monarch" a voice says, one bearing a regal tone that slices through the cacophony of the forest. The flapping of wings echo and naruto looks up to see a beautiful woman with ethereal pale skin, long raven hair to her shoulders, haunting purple eyes and dressed in a white dress that hugs her figure, a pair of long raven wings allow her float down. She lands and her wings becomes a cape around her form, "Greetings Shadow Monarch.. I am Izayoi Yoshikage" she greets.
"Yoshikage" naruto says, his tone a mix of curiosity and confusion as izayoi nods.
"In honor of our Last Summoner before our Contract was stolen during the Black Day" izayoi says and extends her arm for him to follow, "My children have been searching for it for years" she adds. The pair walk through the dark forest as random conversations happen as izayoi explains after the fall of uzushio and the contract stolen, her children have been searching but also keeping an eye on yoshikage's successor kushina but also him.
"We Ravens work in sync with the Shadow Monarch.. We are ideal for Reconnaissance and Espionage but also the use of Meiton.. You'll also be able to share the vision of my children as well" izayoi says, her voice a mixture of pride and solemn duty that breaks through the serene night air.
"Interesting" naruto says, as they reach a very large but hollowed out tree. He follows izayoi inside to see five coffins with the bodies of three men and two women, branches pierced into their bodies as each look like they have recently died.
"My children found them and brought them here for a future Monarch.. They have long died but these roots are keep chakra following through them" izayoi explains, her tone reverent and almost melancholic. She gestures towards the first figure, a young man with medium-long brown hair, a striking black eye-patch over his right eye, garbed in a mixture of blue, black, and traditional samurai attire.
"He is Date Masamune" izayoi says with a hint of pride in her voice. The second is a young man dressed akin to a monk with effeminate features, "The War God Kenshin Ueusgi" izayoi continues, her voice holding a trace of respect. Her gaze then shifts to a hulking figure, a man with brown hair tied in a topknot, dressed in formidable samurai armor colored in shades of red, maroon, and black.
"Hideyoshi" izayoi says, the name carrying weight. The first woman is beautiful with long black hair in hime-cut wearing onna-musha garb in dark pink and black colors, "Oichi" izayoi says, her voice softening. The last is a kunoichi with suna hitai-ate having green hair that she tied in a bun on top of her head with a hair needle running through it and one short and long strands of hair with orange tips framing each side of her face.
"Suna's Hero.. Pakura of the Shakuton... They are your to Raise" izayoi finishes with a solemn nod. Naruto stares at the five with a run of his fingers through his hair, "Rumors were she was killed by Iwagakure" mikoto comments, breaking the silence with a hint of disbelief.
"Arise" naruto declares, his eyes glowing. The five rise with date having six swords, kenshin a single sword, oichi a double-bladed naginata as hideyoshi and pakura no weapons. Each bow to one knee as izayoi smiles, "Now one more thing.. Show me one of your bare arms" she says. Naruto pulls back the left sleeve of his turtleneck and izayoi kisses his firearm with black lipstick as tattoo forms in the form of kanji around his arm to his shoulder, "This will be the Summon Tattoo.. Simply channel chakra into it and it will summon a swarm of my children" she says and naruto slowly nods, dismissing his new soldiers. He suddenly finds himself back in the field with the contract in front of him, "Summoner Back.. Summoner Back" the raven caws.
"Where did you go" karin says, eyebrows raised in curiosity with her gaze fixed on the peculiar tattoo now adorning naruto's left arm.
"Must of have been the Summon realm of the Ravens" mei says with a hint of awe in her voice, her eyes sparkling with intrigue as she tries to get a better look at naruto's new mark. Naruto nods before rolling up the scroll to put it into his inventory and holds out his arm for the raven to land on it, "Do you have a name" he asks.
"No name.. No name.. No Name" the raven says, its voice echoing slightly in the quiet surroundings.
"Then today you will be Branwen" naruto says, a soft smile playing on his lips.
"Branwen.. Branwen.. Branwen" branwen declares, as if testing out the name. Naruto sends her flying off with her wings cutting gracefully through the air.
"Choosing names now" karin teases lightly, a small smile on her face as she watches branwen disappear into the distance. As branwen blends into the sky, the three continue their journey to the owari lands, the weight of their future endeavors resting on their shoulders.
シーンブレイク
Guards at ieyasu's castle stand guard at the gates when one sees three figure and a small wolf approaching in hooded cloaks but one has a raven on their shoulder. Both guards quickly point their polearms at the three and the raven flies off with a caw, "Halt!" one shouts. The one in front reaches for their and reveals a white mask having black painted lips, a pink star over the left eye, its eyes are blacked out and purple crescent moon on the right cheek.
"State your business!" the second guard demands, eying the peculiar mask with a mixture of curiosity and caution.
"I am Phantom and I wish to meet Prince Ieyasu Oda" our blond monarch asks, as his companions remove their hoods to reveal mei and karin.
"Phantom?!.. As in slayer of Yagura Karatachi" one says, keeping his weapon at the ready.
"I am.. I've been told Good things about Prince Ieyasu and wish to meet him" naruto says, his voice steady and confident.
"What is going on?!" a voice declares sharply but not without a certain regality and one guard looks to see a young woman with black hair having two long ponytails wrapped in white cloth, ending in two golden hoops. She wears a sleeveless kosode with white juban underneath, black hakama pants and black ballet flats.
"Phantom has come to meet his Highness.. Madam Lin" one guard says, slightly lowering his weapon but still wary. Lin stares at the mask blond for several minutes in silence but turns on her heels, "Follow.. Make One move out of line and You'll die in Two strikes" she says. Naruto, mei, and karin with exchange a brief look but follow Lin inside the castle, noting the numerous guards and servants watching them cautiously. Lin orders them to remove their cloaks and do as ordered with their shoes following before being relieved of their weapon pouches and being patted down. They are taking to meeting hall having tatami mats, shoji doors to let light inside, several cushions are brought in for them to sit on.
"Sit here and bow to the Prince once he arrives and don't look up until He says" lin says, pointing to the cushions before a raised section having a low throne. Naruto takes a seat followed by mei and karin with both behind him, "What did she mean in Two strikes" karin whispers, gently and rubbing blue's head once lin was gone. She is wearing a long sleeve white shirt with a red tie having black cuffs on her wrists and a waist cincher, black cargo shorts with red tights and black ankle boots.
"Who knows" mei says, her eyes scanning the finely decorated room and trying to distract herself from the nervous anticipation of meeting the prince. She is wearing a sleeveless black crop top with a buckled choker at the collar and black jean shorts with dark blue straps around her upper thighs and loose mimetic leg warmers with high-waist black tights. An unzipped black jacket with purple trim having a high collar and attached hood the comes just above her high-waist tights. The jacket has a zipper running along its entire length, a purple air filter on either side just below the trim. The jacket's sleeves completely envelop her arms, terminating in white glove-like extensions a cat's paws.
"She must be a skilled warrior" naruto says, with a thoughtful expression. He is wearing a graphic long sleeve shirt in a dark blue color with sleeves have bionic designs on it. A pair of hybrid ninja-cargo pants with adjustable straps having tight ankles and a high collar black trench coat with the sleeves rolled up having a dark purple and light purple tessellated cuffs. The atmosphere in the room shifts as the sliding doors to the right of the raised section slide open gracefully, a silent anticipation filling the space. All three immediately bow with their heads touching the mats, a gesture of deep respect as ieyasu enters the room. The unexpected presence of tsunade flanked by tenten, further heightens the tension while lin takes her place on ieyasu's left.
"Raise your heads" ieyasu says, his voice carrying a mixture of authority and curiosity. Each raise their heads as naruto hidden eyes settle on the busty blonde to ieyasu's right and the teen to her right, "Sweetie isn't That..." mikoto starts but ieyasu speaks.
"Why have you come Phantom" ieyasu says, his gaze is piercing and leaving little room for ambiguity. Naruto pushes his memories aside and clears his throat, "I wanted to meet you Prince Ieyasu.. My Mother spoke highly of you in her journal" he starts and ieyasu quirks an eyebrow, "She spoke of you and your brother.. How each of you have inherited the Best and Worst qualities of your father" he continues, his fingers instinctively brushing through his hair and transitioning it back to its natural blond hue. This catches eye of tsunade as that shade of blond she knows very well, "It couldn't be?!" she thought but her student is having a familiar thought as well.
"Your brother the 1st Prince has on two occasions tried to recruit me to his side.. The First with an exuberant amount of money.. The second in a High-stakes Poker game but both failed" naruto says, his voice carrying a weight of unseen experiences.
"So.. You've come here to see if I will do the same" ieyasu questions, his tone flat yet curious but pausing to keep lin from leaping towards the blond as naruto shakes his head.
"No... I've always known I would work for you because of my Mother.. Your didn't even bother to see me.. Simply assumed Greed motivates those around him... However your people fight for you.. Every person we asked in Places controlled by you and especially here.. How you treat people with respect and common decency.. You fight With your soldiers instead of hiding in a castle" naruto says and reaches for his mask, "Which is why I Phantom... No.. Naruto Uzumaki the Shadow Monarch will fight at your call" he declares, shocking tsunade and tenten.
"Foxy?!" tenten blurts out but quickly covers her mouth, her eyes widening in shock and confusion at the revelation before them.
"Why are you not in Konoha" ieyasu asks, curious as to why the kyubi jinchuriki is not in konoha.
"I left when I was thirteen during the Uchiha Massacre... I could not remain there due to Certain elements" naruto replies, his tone serious and reflecting on those dark times.
"Danzo Shimura" ieyasu says, almost as an accusation with his voice low and understanding the gravity of what that name brought with it.
"You're perceptive.. Yes the like of Danzo Shimura and I could not Trust the Sandaime due to Other elements.. The last few years I've been traveling and working as a Mercenary Shinobi" naruto says, revealing a piece of his life that had been hidden in shadows.
"Before I simply accept your help.. I will look into certain Matters before I do" ieyasu says, not unkindly but with the caution of a leader who had seen too much betrayal.
"And they are" ieyasu adds, looking to mei and karin.
"Mei Terumi your Highness" mei says, introduces herself.
"Karin Uzumaki your Highness and this is Blue" karin says, presenting not just herself but also her companion. Ieyasu rises from his low throne with lin following, "You are welcome to remain my castle until I finish my matters" he says and the three bow low. Tsunade and tenten remain behind as naruto runs his fingers through his blond hair. The older blonde rises from her spot and makes her way towards the younger blond to sit in front of him, her hazel-brown eyes staring into his blue eyes for a few moments.
"You have his eyes and hair but Kushina's face" tsunade says, her voice soft yet carrying an undeniable strength.
"I do" naruto asks and tsunade nods.
"Yes.. Now where did you go after leaving Konoha" tsunade says and pulls out a jug of sake from a seal on her forearm.
"Uzushio first.. I wanted to see our clan's ancestral home.. After some time on island I left and headed for Mizu" naruto starts, his voice carrying a hint of nostalgia.
"It's where he met me and saved me" mei continues and the blonde arches her eyebrow, "I possess Two Kekkei Genkai and Loyalist were going to Rape and Murder me if not for Naruto" she adds.
"The day we met.. We met Zabuza Momochi and he trained us in exchange for assisting the rebels" naruto explains, his tone reflecting a mix of respect and sadness.
"You killed Yagura Karatachi and Phantom aided the rebels in their victory" tsunade says, drinking some sake from her jug and naruto nods.
"Naruto and Mei saved me from a life servitude and I became their Apothecary" karin adds, her voice small but carrying a weight of gratitude.
"Interesting.. We'll need to talk shop" tsunade says, sensing the depth of their experiences and the potential lessons within.
"What about you Panda" naruto says, looking to his childhood friend. Tenten collects her thoughts with her glancing to mei but clears her throat, "It was not too long after you left" she starts and sighs, "I overheard the guy who adopted me that he was glad you were gone.. I confronted him and he told that some of the Merchant clans were pressuring him about associating with you... We continued to argue and I decided to leave.. I happened to bump into Lady Tsunade and told her what I doing" she explains.
"I became her Legal Guardian and one of my student but it seems her skill lay in Kenjutsu.. So I introduced to some teachers but teaching her some of my skills as well" tsunade explains.
"Why are you here.. Konoha Ninja have oaths but you're assisting Prince Ieyasu" mei asks.
"My student Shizune Kato and I are no longer Konoha Ninja.. Though we do is Medical care.. We aren't fighting" tsunade replies and rises to her feet, "Come with me Little Apothecary" she adds. Karin scampers to her feet and follows tsunade out of the meeting hall to leave two childhood friends but a girlfriend as well.
"So.. You knew Naruto as a child" mei asks, her voice soft but laced with curiosity.
"Yeah.. We were both orphans and began to hang but got separated when I was adopted but we reconnected during the academy before he left" tenten says, her tone tinged with a mix of nostalgia and regret.
"Sorry about what happened with your dad" naruto says but tenten shakes her head as her eyes avoiding his as a complex swirl of emotions passed through them.
"Naruto.. Can let us Girls talk" mei says softly, giving naruto a knowing look.
"Um.. Sure.. I'll go feed Branwen" naruto says, rising to his a small wave to tenten and heads outside. A few minutes pass as both teens sit in silence but tenten breaks it, "How has Naruto been doing" she asks, looking into mei's eyes for the first time since the conversation began.
"He's doing well" mei replies, her tone gentle as she fixes a stray bang covering her right eye.
"Are you two close" tenten asks, fiddling nervously with her fingers.
"We're a couple... We trauma bonded over the ordeal on Fujioka island" mei replies, surprising tenten with the depth of their connection.
"I-I see" tenten stutters out, a mix of emotions crossing her face as mei tilts her head slightly and detecting the turmoil brewing within Tenten.
"Do you have feelings for Naruto" mei says and tenten turns red, causing a slightly sly look to form on the auburn beauty's face.
"I-I don't know but it doesn't matter" tenten says, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Does it.. If you do have feelings for Naruto.. I am somewhat willing to share him" mei says calmly and her declaration leaves tenten in disbelief.
"Are you serious?!" tenten says and mei nods.
"I am.. You are his childhood friend and you should see If you have feelings for him" mei comments and rises to her feet, "If you have feelings for him.. Know I confessed to him First" mei says, her tone firm yet open as she leaves to find naruto. Tenten would contemplate this choice well into the night as the complexity of her emotions and the unexpected turn of the conversation left her in a state of turmoil but eventually she would make a decision. She would explore her feelings for naruto, a choice that would impact their lives in ways none of them could have anticipated.
つづく
AN2: I'll end it here with Naruto meet Ieyasu but also Tsunade and reuniting with Tenten. As I said it be just these three together with no one else. I'm not good at writing romance, so much will be off screen but they'll have moments. Next chapter picks up a month later and nobutatsu decides to make a choice that will cost him his bid for daimyo. Thank you to Everyone for their support and Byeeeeee!