Chapter 7
The dining hall was full and noisy, the scent of the food flooding the room with a multitude of different aromas. As had been expected there were many different topics of discussion and groups within the hall,each village gravitating to their own. The only exceptions were the kage who were using this opportunity to its maximum.
"To think that the short boy in orange could become this!" exclaimed Ino still in shock at how different Naruto was from what they were used to. This got a smattering of mutters of agreement with a signature 'Troublesome' of the Nara's. Now that they looked back they could all see the signs but back then they had all just thought of him as an idiot trouble maker. Lee was excited at the 'youth' his friend was displaying. What scared them was how strong would their Naruto have been if he had been trained properly. His growth was already astonishing as was his power. It was a terrifying thought.
Kushina could not help but brag to her friends about how awesome her sochi was. Luckily they were used to her boisterous personality and knew this was her way of showing how proud she was of her son.
It was not long until the signal for the next part to start was given and they made their way into the room for it to begin.
Ando, Nara Prefecture, Japan, The Palace of Toryoura
In the Nara prefecture of Japan was a secret place that the Zenko (or Inari Kitsunes) held in great reverence. It was the Palace of Toyoura which was hidden under an illusion from the prying eyes of humans. Legends said that this was one of the places that the legendary 14th Japanese Emperor Chūai ruled from. Human historians have long argued whether or not Emperor Chūai was a real person or a legend….Of course that was totally irrelevant to the Inari Kitsune Celestial Council of 50 that lived and worked there. Every fifty years an election of sorts was held for council seats. It wasn't a democracy however. Only those appointed were eligible for election and the maximum time a counsellor could remain in power was 200 years.
The hokage and clan heads all groaned at the mere mention of politics, this however did make them wonder how immortals would do such a thing. They knew the vampires used regents for their covens, The lycans probably due to their nature used alphas. So to hear this system confused them as it was both sensible and not at the same time. They guessed that this had to do with tradition, something that had a habit of not being sensible.
This council was formed after the long reign of Lord Kurama and afterwards the reign of his celestial daughter Kushina. When Kushina was removed from power the council was formed to rule justly in her place and following the will of the Kami of Foxes, Inari. The current Council was rather progressive but an old subject had reared its head once again…. Uzumaki Naruto.
Kushina frowned at this, yes she was royalty of Uzushio and had been given lessons on politics. That had been long ago but her instincts were screaming that something was off with this. The way it referred to her son really did not help things.
The kage were in unknowing agreement with the woman, something about the situation did not sit right.
A new counsellor named Kensuke said, "It has long been stated that Kitsunes are allowed to interbreed with humans but all of their children have been mortal humans without exception. Some have had impressive powers due to their kitsune blood but none have ever been immortal. That brings us to the issue of Uzumaki Naruto, the union of an immortal human and Uzumaki Kushina who would still be ruling today were it not for birthing an immortal half human son, Naruto."
This caused frowns on all of the shinobi now as it was saying that her having Naruto was the cause of what they could only conclude was a coup. The not so subtle growling coming from not only the Inuzuka but also Kushina made those close to them subtly move away from the volatile shinobi.
"This is old, old news." said an older counsellor in a bored tone. It was obvious he couldn't care less. "Everyone here is well aware of Kushina-sama's tragic fall from grace. Are you suggesting the council puts down her son as well? I consider him an affront to our race but long ago the first council and more importantly the Inari Priestesses ruled that it was not his fault that he was born a half breed and should not be killed. While we have ostracized him since he came into this world, Inari-sama would not wish for us to kill him for being different."
"I agree entirely. Why are you bringing this up counsellor?" asked another.
Kensuke said, "I bring this subject up because he is a nine tails and is the most powerful kitsune descendant in existence –including each and every one of us in this council chamber. Kurama-sama's blood runs strong in him. Too strong to be ignored or prejudiced against. By our elder's reckoning he has eclipsed Kushina-sama in power and we all know just how strong she was said to be….It is the stuff of legends. Uzumaki Naruto is one of us. It is time to bring him into the fold as one of our own."
Whilst Kushina was silently raging Minato had been paying close attention and had realised what they were planning. While he was glad his son was immensely powerful, he was enraged at the idea that these politicians were going to say. This was obvious by the slight glow and rage that was being given off by the parents. Not that the others who had figured out what was going on could blame them.
There were gasps in the council chamber. "But he wasn't raised as a kitsune. He is an outsider!" exclaimed a younger counsellor.
"Would Inari want our strongest to be on the outside?" asked Kensuke. "His strength is colossal. He has mastered kitsune techniques to an unprecedented degree with no formal training. He's also a military genius which is nothing to scoff at. Should the yako somehow convince Naruto to turn against us I wonder how many of us would survive."
Another council member said pompously, "The yako have stayed away because they fear Inari-sama's wrath."
"The yako have stayed away because they fear Naruto's wrath." said Kensuke authoritatively. "Think my fellow counsellors. His place is with us. We need to peacefully bring him into Zenko society with honour."
"And just how do you propose to do that counsellor?" asked the first elder counsellor that spoke before. "We have never interacted with him even once."
Kensuke smiled and said, "It is quite simple; we offer him a kitsune mate of the line of the Inari Priestesses. Such a union would cleanse the line of Kurama-sama of human impurities and their future children would be appointed as eligible to be council members."
The rage In the room was palpable. There were however some who understood their thought line, this did not however mean that they agreed with it. The kage understood the thought of someone that powerful not having any loyalty. It was not a good thought, even Tsunade whilst she was travelling had rules upon her. Those from clans knew why they would want a 'pure bloodline' even though there were clans such as the Inuzuka who regularly brought in new blood to no detriment of their bloodline traits.
The council seemed to ruminate over the idea for some time before another older member said, "If we go with this plan then it would certainly take a very special Priestess to put up with Naruto's roughneck nature. That and she would have to be able to charm him into being her lifelong mate. Inari would demand no less."
The rather crafty Kensuke nodded in affirmation. "Then the first daughter of our High Priestess Tsukiko-sama would be ideal. She is not only incomparably righteous but dazzlingly beautiful."
"You are proposing we marry him to Himeko-sama? What makes you think she would agree to it?" asked a fourth counsellor in shock.
"Himeko-sama is extremely powerful and has used the excuse that she has not found one strong enough to be worthy of her mate. She has used this excuse for centuries." explained Kensuke. "Uzumaki Naruto has more strength than any save his sleeping Grandsire Kurama-sama himself. We've been trying to get her to take a mate to continue the holy line for centuries and she has adamantly refused as she is a nine tail herself. It would be killing two birds with one stone. If she wants strength Naruto has is in spades."
Kushina was in mixed feelings. Her sochi might be getting another powerful mate, something that made her giddy at the thought of the grand babies she could get, on the other side they were essentially not only pimping out this woman but also using her sochi as a stud to breed.
The other women in the room were pissed at the idea of such a thing, however none of them could complain about it as arranged and political marriages whilst not common were not unheard of. They were a fact of life within the clans, merchants and nobility. Something that they knew was a possibility. Just because it was accepted however did not mean that they had to like it.
The elder counsellor spoke again. "You are matchmaking the most fiery and stubborn Inari Priestess in history with a rogue, outsider warlord? I don't know if you are insane our brilliant counsellor."
"Well that is an interesting description" chuckled Anko getting laughs from those in the room that heard. It did sound like it would make for an interesting match. This naturally made Kushina interested in the woman. She was of the decided opinion that a strong man needed a strong woman to be his pillar his support and his centre.
"I prefer to consider myself inspired in this matter." said Kensuke. "No doubt their union would be fiery and tempestuous at first but actually I believe they would be a good match given their lineages. Consider that the strength of Kurama-sama and Inari's most favoured Priestesses would flow through their children. It would be a perfect match."
After about an hour of debating back and forth Counsellor Kensuke's arguments seemed to have convinced the majority. At this point the spokesperson of the council said, "All in favour of this proposal for the union of Uzumaki Naruto and Himeko-sama say aye."
"AYE!" rang throughout the chamber. For the first time in centuries none disagreed…
…
This shocked those who had to deal with such councils. It was a near impossibility for there to be no dissenters. The looks of shock on the faces caused chuckles to break out amongst the younger generations, they knew why as well from the constant complaints about council meetings from their respective elders.
Budapest, Lycan Den
Naruto awoke in the arms of his younger mate Ildi. She liked to sleep on top of him because it was her favourite position to have good morning wake up sex. For the past two weeks Naruto had been alternating days between his two mates to train them in their kitsune abilities and after the first week Selene had reluctantly agreed that Naruto should be spending the nights he trained with Ildi as well. Ildi had been thrilled as she was feeling rather despondent that Naruto wouldn't stay the night with her. As it turned out Ildi was even wilder in bed than Naruto had imagined and he loved to see her smile ferally as he pleased her.
Whilst a lot of the people in the room blushed the Inuzuka just laughed as that was normal for ferals. It was not uncommon for loud screams to be hear in the compound when couples in their enthusiasm forgot to activate the silencing seals. It had not been the first time that the ANBU had left the scene blushing under their masks when they found out that they 'fight' or 'suspected murder' had been anything but.
Ildi awoke and inhaled the wonderful scent of her mate Naruto. She nuzzled him sleepily and felt him stir as she started placing kisses on his chest, neck and jaw line. She purred lustfully as he slowly started returning her kisses and worked his way down to her luscious breasts. Ildi felt Naruto already had a full hard on and started grinding her womanhood against his member. Normally Ildi liked it fast and hard but in the morning she always rode Naruto slow and easy. He always drove her wild. Not being able to wait any longer Ildi grabbed his member and mounted him until he was buried to the hilt inside her. Naruto groaned at her tightness before he grasped her hips and started slowly thrusting up into her making her bounce slightly.
Once again Tsunade found herself glad that a certain toad was not their. She did however miss the fact that there was both men and women in the room with lust filled gazes as whilst the screen was blank their minds filled in the gaps.
She arched her back as she started meeting Naruto's slow, deep thrusts and got a lustful smile of ecstasy on her face as she stared heatedly into her lover's eyes. Then Ildi started rocking her hips back and forth so Naruto could penetrate further inside her. After about fifteen minutes of slow riding she gasped as an orgasm hit her like a freight train. Ildi clamped down hard on her mate and Naruto and released his essence deep inside her. She locked her legs tightly around him so he would release it all into her without pulling out. After a few minutes in a lover's clinch Naruto laid back and admired Ildi's beautiful body before he gently pulled her down on top of him and gave her a slow, passionate kiss.
When she raised up a bit Ildi smiled widely as Naruto said to her, "Good morning my beautiful mate. I love you."
Ildi leaned down and kissed him again. "I love you to my Naruto." The two lovers relaxed a little while and basked in the afterglow before they got up to start a new day…
…
There was a slight cough from a grinning Kushina. "I suppose that was to give us an insight into how Sochi will probably react to their plans." her grin turning pure feral and evil giving those in the room a pretty good idea. It had become very obvious from the start that while he had his fathers looks his personality was all Uzumaki.
Nara Prefecture, The Temple of Inari
The beautiful Priestess Himeko*① was sitting in the seiza position meditating upon things. She was wearing her traditional white Priestess robes that had purple trimmings. As a very powerful Inari Priestess she often had precognitions or even full blown visions of things from the past or things yet to come from Inari. However, today she was just getting that irritating feeling she always got when her parents brought some suitor to see her or even drag her away from her meditations for some secretly planned omiai to introduce her to 'a promising young kitsune.' She opened her deep indigo eyes and looked about wondering what was going on. As Himeko had meditated that morning she'd seen odd visions of a blonde in blood red samurai armour from olden times. He seemed to be somewhere between a warlord and an unstoppable force of nature. It was very odd and had Himeko puzzled.
While it was shocking to hear that the woman had visions, it amused them greatly that the subject of her current ones were of Naruto especially considering the topic that had been discussed. Tsunade could not help but pinch the brow of her nose as she had a rough idea of where this was going to go.
About that time her attendant Chie arrived in a rush. Chie was very young (she was only 50) but was quite brilliant. The girl could speak virtually every language known and she passed her time as a computer programmer when she wasn't fulfilling her duties to Himeko. Himeko held Chie in very high esteem but at the same time always called her Chie-chan because the younger kitsune was incredibly petite and cute. Himeko figured Chie could make a fortune selling figurines of herself like kewpie dolls.
This once again threw the fact that they were watching exceedingly long lived people. The fact that they considered a fifty year old as young. It also annoyed the older shinobi that a small and cute girl who looked to be in her teens was actually around their age, it was a blow to the ego. They could however agree that she could probably make quite a bit of money.
Shikaku wrote a question onto the question pad. His eyebrow raised in shock at the answer he received.
"What is it Shikaku" Hiruzen asked as that was not a look that you saw often upon the face of a Nara. "I asked how many languages there were."responded the clan head, getting nods of understanding. In the elemental nations there was only one language. There were battle cants, languages created for combat but they were restricted in that they could not be used everyday as it was a language designed for combat.
"and?" asked the second, also interested. "There are about 700 main languages 7000 if you include the minor ones." this caused shocked gasps to erupt throughout the room. They had been aware that there were other languages in the world due to Naruto speaking a few, That many however?
Chie quickly trotted up the steps in her miko robes looking adorable as ever and bowed deeply before Himeko. "I bid you warm greetings this morning Himeko-sama." said Chie.
As the image was shown upon the screen stars had appeared within the eyes of the females within the room. This gave the men enough of a head up to cover their ears so that they did not go deaf from the collective squeal.
"Please sit with me and tell me what brings you here this morning in such a flustered state Chie-chan." said Himeko as she motioned in front of her. "You look like you've been running."
Chie sat down in front of Himeko breathing heavily and said, "Thank you Himeko-sama; please allow me to catch my breath." After a few moments Chie said, "The Celestial Council of 50 informed me this morning that I am to accompany retired Counsellor Kazuo to the European country of Hungary."
Himeko got a flat look. "Let me guess; you are the only kitsune that can speak Hungarian fluently as a native speaker."
"Ah, yes that seems to be the case…" said Chie looking embarrassed.
This caused the room to chuckle at not only the woman was able to guess but also at the fact that the 'girl' was embarrassed by the fact.
Himeko grumbled "Those politicians need to realize that you have important duties here at the Inari Temple." The beautiful priestess sighed. "Well, there's little to be done about it Chie-chan. I have to say that you are simply too talented for your own good. I could make a protest but it would just end up being yet another point of contention I have with the exalted Celestial Council…'Celestial' my nine tails…" Himeko muttered under her breath. "At any rate; how long are you supposed to but helping old man Kazuo?"
The kage, clan heads and Kushina could not help but chuckle at the thoughts of politicians that the woman was having. Kushina and Minato however could not help but think that the woman would probably end up getting along well with Naruto. That is if they did not kill each other first.
Chie tried to keep from bursting into giggles at the lack of respect Himeko had for retired Counsellor Kazuo. "Y-you should not say such scandalous things about our retired counsellors Himeko-sama!" said Chie trying to keep a straight face and failing miserably.
Himeko smiled and said, "It is my duty as a Priestess of Inari to speak the truth. He'd better have a good reason for taking you. Every other attendant of mine takes ten times as long as you do to perform the simplest of tasks."
"Ahh yes, using duty to hide the fact that you are just insulting them." chuckled out Kakashi getting nods of agreement.
Blushing at Himeko's praise, Chie said, "You flatter me too much Himeko-sama. I was informed that I am to translate because former Counsellor Kazuo is meeting an extremely important person. It should take around three weeks at most."
"I see." said Himeko. "Take care to inform Kazuo-san that Himeko-sama will be very cross if he asks you to marry him or any of his many sons. Tell him I mentioned the year 1840 to him. That will get the point across."
Ohnoki could only nod at this. "Being such a long lived race it is not surprising if families got large." getting looks of confusion. "if one lives as long as is implied here, the chances of someone living to see not only their children but also the grand children and more. Even then they might still be having children whilst their great grand children are around."
This got a look of shock from those in the room only for them to think about it and nod in agreement with the old kage.
Chie looked a bit puzzled. "If I may humbly ask, what is the significance of the year 1840 in case he asks?"
Himeko smiled beatifically. "Suffice it to say he tried to arrange a political marriage with me and almost became a eunuch as a result. I'm sure her remembers it quite vividly."
"You always handle things with so much delicacy and tact my daughter." said Himeko's lovely Mother as she strolled up.
This caused a few to chuckle. It was obvious that she had been rather forceful in that situation.
"Okaa-sama, how nice it is to see you this morning." said Himeko.
"High Priestess Tsukiko-sama!" said Chie bowing again.
"Rise Chie." said the High Priestess to Inari. "I only came to wish you good luck on your trip. Your task is a matter of great importance to all of us but do inform Kazuo-san that you are uninterested in marrying into his family and that Tsukiko-sama is watching him. You have tasks to perform Chie. You should be on your way."
"O-of course my Lady!" said Chie in reverence. She then took off in a cloud of dust.
"I was rather enjoying taking to Chie-chan Okaa-sama." pouted Himeko grumpily. "Was it truly necessary to chase her off?"
Tsukiko said mysteriously, "The future is always in motion my child. Her task is very important. Come have tea with your Father and I; you spend so much time out here on your terraced hill meditating that I sometimes forget I even have a daughter."
"Kaa-chan!" whined Himeko childishly as her Mother chuckled.
This got a chuckle from those within the room as it was surprising just how 'human' they were, they had long lives but they acted surprisingly similar.
…
Budapest, Heroes' Square
An unmarked van pulled up and the Death Dealer's Kahn and Mason climbed out quietly. A few minutes later a cargo truck pulled up and the lycans Raze and Ildi hopped out. Clause was originally going to come but he made a pass at Ildi since Naruto wasn't around and she none too gently punched him out. 'He probably got a concussion out of that….' thought Raze with a sweat drop.
Kushina fell from her chair laughing. Yes she heartily approved of the Lycan girl.
Kahn and Ildi exchanged greetings. They seemed to actually be on fairly good terms now. "So you've got the cargo in the van?" asked Ildi.
"Yep. We'll be glad to get rid of it." said Kahn. "Do you want to inspect it first? I can open the box."
Raze nodded. "Go ahead and open it. I'll know if it's genuine." said the big lycan.
"Fair enough." said Kahn. "Help me out here Mason." The two vampires pried open the coffin sized crate and in it was lying a moaning and completely broken Soren….
"Fuck!" said Ildi. What the hell happened to his eyebrows? He's burnt to the fucking bone! It looks like someone took a branding iron to him!"
"Not to mention the lack of hands and feet…." deadpanned Raze.
Mason cringed. "Soren kept trying to escape and Lord Naruto got….irritated so he took Soren's remaining hand and feet. It was brutal."
"What about the burn marks all over and the eyebrows?" asked Ildi with her head cocked to the side. "His face looks like it got put on a barbecue grill."
Kahn said uncomfortably, "That was Selene's doing, she can use blue fire now and was practising. The screams were a nightmare."
"So my big sister is able to use fox fire now? Cool!" said an enthused Ildi.
This got wide eyes from those within the room. Anko however was giddy at the sight and had her little note book back out again. The others however were shocked that it was Naruto that had done this as the boy really did not seem to be the torture type. Then again his pranks...
It wasn't a big secret that Naruto had a vampire hybrid mate and a lycan hybrid mate. It was actually considered a good thing because to both sides it made Naruto seem impartial. In lycan pack terms Ildi already considered Selene to be her 'big sister' and was eager to meet her.
Raze poked Soren and the dead looking vampire groaned. "I owe him a lot of pain for torturing me way back but he hardly even seems aware we're here."
Kahn held up his hands in a placating motion. "Believe me, Lord Naruto broke Soren mentally and then broke him some more. Soren was confessing to things he did before he even became a vampire. I doubt he will ever recover from what Lord Naruto did to him. Lord Marcus was going to just hand him over but Naruto kept him a couple of days so Selene could practice. Sorry but Soren isn't going to provide much entertainment for you guys."
"holy shit!" breathed out anko. To have broken him so effectively was a dream and nightmare. It was one of the reasons that Ibiki was so feared. The rookies however were wide eyed. This was unreal for them. They knew T&I existed, hell they had been there as it was needed upon return in some cases but they had never seen true torture and thus had never accepted it beyond the intellectual.
"I would love to have seen his confession about the death of Lady Sonja." said Raze. "Of all the things he did that was the worst to Lucien."
Mason pulled out a zip up case with CD ROMs in it. "You can watch it all you want. We always record interrogations for evidence. I threw up when I saw it and I've seen a lot of stuff over the years."
It didn't take long to close up the crate with the moaning Soren in it and load it in the back of the cargo van. Raze closed the doors and said, "Any word on Viktor?"
"Lord Marcus wants to figure out a way Viktor can be judged for crimes against both the lycans and vampires along with Lucien." said Kahn. "God only knows how many we've killed of each other for no reason other than his prejudice."
"What did Naruto have to say?" asked Raze curiously.
Khan replied. "He wants to wake up Viktor enough to move a little and then expose him to sunlight the way Lady Sonja was. I'm inclined to agree with him but it's not my place to say."
With that the two groups went their separate ways.
…
When the crate was opened in the Lycan Den later the first thing that Lucien said was what everyone present wondered about Soren. "What the hell happened to his eyebrows?!"
…
This caused the room to break down into laughter. "It seems that their relation ship wile still shaky is on the mend" said Hashirama with a smile. "Indeed brother, it will take a while but if Naruto keeps going the way he is it might be repaired faster than expected." responded Tobirama. This got nods from the room, some however were not that surprised as this was the person who had been anointed the hero of several countries in his career as a shinobi.
Ördögház Mansion
A few days later Naruto woke up with his beautiful Selene. She was snuggled into his side as usual. He gently rolled to face her and brushed her bangs out of her face. Selene blinked and then smiled softly at her lover as the two enjoyed a very passionate good morning kiss. "Mmmm…" she said softly. "Let's shower together this morning Naruto. After that we have plans today."
…
Two hours later Naruto and Selene went out to an early lunch. They hadn't intended to spend that long in the shower together…They got a bit carried away. Selene still wasn't used to being out in the sun and actually being able to eat human foods (and having an appetite for them) again was still very novel to her (it had been 600 years after all). She was dressed in her usual Death Dealer Gear and long black coat. Naruto was in his usual suit and trench coat. The blonde kitsune said, "So anyway, I'll need to extend my rental on the BMW, pick up Ildi and then we'll meet up with you at the Comme Chez Soi restaurant at six."
It seems that the small family is meeting. Thought Kushina with a bit of excitement. She was hoping it went well as her son deserved a loving family. After so long on his own with probably the occasional fling she wanted him to be loved.
"Considering the rental fees you might as well just buy the car Naruto." said Selene. "Has she ever gotten a new car?"
Naruto shook his head. "No, they haven't sorted out the insurance business yet down from the factory fire in Dunaújváros. They argued with her to even prove the wreckage was hers!"
"That's ridiculous." said Selene "You'd think they'd have settled for identifying the license plates on the wreck."
"I guess a lot of people have been making false claims, so they are being tight fisted about it." said Naruto between bites.
"It's still ridiculous. People do need transportation you know." Selene took another bite of her breakfast. "Off topic but this French Toast you like so much is quite good."
Naruto smiled. "I'm glad you like it Selene. There is lot you've been missing."
"What does Ildi think of this stuff?" asked the dark haired beauty pointing at her food.
"She thinks it's okay but still prefers meat dishes. I guess some things just can't be changed." chuckled Naruto.
To everyone in the restaurant Naruto and Selene looked like an ordinary young couple happily bantering over brunch. They had no idea…
The Inuzuka could not help but chuckle at the fact that the lycan girl loved her meats. Whilst the others were just finding it odd that the two were just sitting to breakfast as if it was a normal thing Thus they agreed with the 'they have no idea' statement.
…
Naruto dropped off Selene at Ördögház around three o'clock and went to the rental place. He planned to pick up Ildi at Heroes' Square at four o'clock if everything according to schedule.
…Needless to say it didn't…
…
Budapest International Airport, Hungary
Retired Counsellor Kazuo, his driver/bodyguard Saburo and his attendant/translator Chie got off of their first class flight from Japan. Kazuo was a 700 year old four tail with a lot of political influence. Chie found that Kazuo-sama was a bit lecherous and had a harem and many children. The intelligent young lady knew it was because of money and politics rather than (cringe) looks or (cringe even more) charm. He'd been rather bold with his advances on Chie at first but when she mentioned the year 1840 Kazuo suddenly became a complete gentleman…go figure.
This caused the room to chuckle. They were not surprised about the harem. Those who were powerful in such ways tended to get such as people would try to get into their favour. Be it the girls themselves looking for an easy life at the sacrifice of having such a partner, or their families trying to gain a better status. No it was not uncommon for high status merchants and nobles to have such. As it said politics and money, the things that truly ran the world.
Chie's impression of Saburo was he was nice enough but far too obsessed with duty. 'There is such a thing as working too hard…' thought Chie as she looked at Saburo. Saburo was a 250 year old two tail that would gladly shield his Master Kazuo-sama from gunfire with his body if need be. That was all good and well. However, Saburo would probably try to shield Kazuo from someone spilling a drink on the older kitsune with his body as well….He had more than once 'protected' his master from things like airline hostesses (clearly a threat) and luggage (also dangerous in the extreme). Chie wondered how Saburo could sleep at night if he was that paranoid. 'Still, Saburo is likeable and rather handsome…' thought Chie with a tiny blush.
This caused the kage to sigh. They all knew at least one person with such a personality. While they were annoying they had their uses and were exceedingly useful if used right. The fact that she found him attractive made them chuckle at the image of the small girl blushing.
The rather odd trio went to the Hotel Palazzo Zichy because its 19th Century elegancy appealed to Kazuo-sama. He rented the most luxurious room available with Chie and Saburo in adjacent, smaller rooms. Chie had to make all of the arrangements of course but given her mastery of Hungarian it was no trouble. Saburo didn't know a word of Hungarian and Kazuo-sama was limited to basic greetings. As long as the tiny vixen was there the two big, strong kitsune were safe…
Once they were settled in Chie was given the fateful duty of calling Uzumaki Naruto. It had taken a great deal of effort to get his phone number in Japan but with her hacking skills anything was possible. On the third ring a male voice answered in Hungarian, "Hello, Naruto Corvinus speaking." He was at the rental place filling out papers on the BMW.
She replied in Japanese, ["Greetings Uzumaki Naruto-sama, this is Kitsune Chie. I'm calling on behalf of the Inari Kitsune Celestial Council of 50, please do not hang up."]
Naruto replied in Japanese, ["Who are you calling -sama and what do you want?"]
Minato sighed with a hand on his fore head groaning. The boy was so like his wife that it hurt him to think about. He knew that this was a knife edge the girl was walking and the only reason the boys rage had not boiled over was that it was a girl talking.
He sounded hostile to Chie and she switched to Hungarian. "Naruto-sama, a retired member of the Council has come here to Budapest to meet with you. He only speaks Japanese and I am his interpreter. He would very much like to meet you in person as he has a very important proposal for you."
"What kind of proposal?" growled Naruto.
Chie said nervously, "I'm afraid that information has not been divulged to me Naruto-sama. I've only been asked to arrange the meeting between you and Kazuo-sama."
"Then kindly tell your Kazuo-sama that I'm not interested." said Naruto as he went to turn off his phone.
"PLEASE WAIT!" said Chie. "Kazuo-sama is right here. Will you speak to him Naruto-sama?"
There was silence for a few seconds and Naruto said, "Put him on the line." in a dark tone.
Those that knew her all turned and looked at Kushina who looked embarrassed. She knew that when it came to politics she had a short temper due to her dislike of it. It seemed her sochi took after her in that sense. She let out a small chuckle and scratched the back of her head with a sheepish smile, The rookies could only sigh at the similarities between the woman and her son.
"Thank you Naruto-sama; please hold on." said Chie. She turned to Kazuo and said, ["Kazuo-sama, Naruto-sama is not interested in meeting you without knowing why in advance. He is only willing to speak to you."]
Kazuo looked ruffled but then said, ["Very well, please hand me the phone Chie-san."] Taking the phone from Chie the retired Counsellor said smoothly, ["Good afternoon to you Naruto-sama; please pardon my intrusion upon your day. I am Kazuo-sama and I'm a retired member of the Inari Kitsune Celestial Council. I was sent here by the Exalted Council to meet with you in person if at all possible. I'm saddened to say that the Inari Kitsune owe you a great deal of reparations and countless apologies for or treatment of you due to you lineage. Our Enlightened Council has decided that we should do everything in our considerable power to make up for our many grievances against you. Would you be willing to meet with me in person Naruto-sama? I assure you our proposals are entirely benevolent and would benefit you greatly."]
There was a stunned silence within the room. They could not believe the audacity of this politician. Then again he was a politician, so...
Naruto retorted sarcastically, ["So after 1400 years of nothing the zenko have decided to contact me out of nowhere because they supposedly want to 'make reparations.' I find that very difficult to believe Kazuo-san. Actually, the idea is quite laughable. What the real reason the zenko have made this ludicrous decision? If you expect me to believe it's out of the goodness of their hearts then you are taking me for a fool Kazuo-san. Few who have done that have lived to tell the tale counsellor. Are you taking me for a fool Kazuo-san? Because if you are I would go back to your ivory tower in the Palace of Toyoura and tell your cronies that Naruto-sama isn't interested."]
Kazuo was sweating. 'This is unravelling quickly. I need to calm his anger.' ["I assure you Naruto-sama; if you would be willing to come and speak to me in person then I will assuage all your doubts. You are very wise to feel that way and you are right that the Inari Kitsune would profit from this as well of course but I assure you that it would be greatly to your benefit as well."]
["Suppose I do come the Kazuo-san."] said Naruto with a hiss. ["If you displease me with this offer I will erase you from existence. I wasn't called the Blood Red Tide for nothing. Is it worth that much to you Kazuo-san? I'm willing to forget this conversation ever happened if you wish."]
Subtle real subtle chuckled out Kiba as he knew what Naruto was doing as it was part of his clans culture, the others however were confused. Kushina was just proud at how her son was controlling things.
The retired counsellor felt a chill down his spine. Kazuo had spent centuries manipulating and reading others. Even over the phone he could tell that Naruto-sama wouldn't hesitate to slay him in a heartbeat. ["I-I assure you Naruto-sama. There will be no need for violence of any sort. I am sure you will be immensely pleased with our offer."]
The blonde Kitsune could tell the politician was frightened over the phone. 'Good; I've established a good dominance over this Kazuo character for our little conversation.' ["Very well, I'll hear this little proposal of yours. Tell me where you wish to meet and pray to Inari that you don't anger me Kazuo-san."]
"what does he mean 'established a dominance'" asked Sakura confused by the term. Tsume was the one to explain, her being the clan head and thus the authority on the subject.
"It means that he now has control over the meeting. The others now have to play by his rules, he sets the speed and direction giving him the advantage. It also means that the others will know in their instincts at least but also in the back of their minds that they are not in control." she explained. It was not something that important to those without a feral/animalistic side but to those who were they would have to fight their own instinct as they boy had just asserted his authority as an alpha which made his the leader.
["How about five o'clock this evening Naruto-sama?"] asked Kazuo. ["My staff and I are staying at the Hotel Palazzo Zichy on the third floor. I would be very pleased to send someone down to greet you while we make preparations to entertain you."]
["Don't knock yourself out counsellor; I figure our meeting will be very brief. I'll see you at five."] said Naruto as he hung up the phone. 'Shit! I'm supposed to meet the girls at six. I'd better call them both and tell them I could be delayed.']
….
Ördögház Mansion
Selene answered her phone, "….You may be late due to some kitsune official contacting you out of nowhere?"
Naruto said, "They're staying at Hotel Palazzo Zichy so they obviously have money. I don't want to put you girls at risk so I'm going to take care of this business first. I'll probably be at the Comme Chez Soi restaurant at six-thirty or seven. I don't know what they want but it sounds like someone from the zenko council. They claim they have some sort of 'offer' for me but I figure I'll end up telling them to shove it."
"sounds about right" sighed out Shikamaru getting a chuckle of agreement from the rookies and a sigh from Tsunade the fact that Sarutobi was chuckling as well was telling.
Selene said in a worried tone, "Be careful Naruto. I don't want you hurt in any way."
"Not to worry my angel; they are politicians, not warriors." said Naruto. "I'll be all right. I love you."
"I love you too Naruto." replied Selene. "I'll meet up with Ildi in my Jag at the restaurant and get us a table."
"All right. I'll see you girls later." said Naruto. "Try to be nice okay? Ildi really wants to meet her big sister."
Selene smiled softly. "All right, I'll see you later this evening."
….
Lycan Den
Ildi picked up on the second ring, "Hi, it's Ildi! What's up Naruto?" Naruto soon explained the situation to Ildi and the lycan/fox girl was not happy. "It's sounds like they are plotting against us Naruto. Maybe you should kick their asses for ruining our dinner plans. I want to be there with you and my big sister Selene. It will be our first meal together as a pack!"
Naruto was cringing. "Well, a lot of ramifications could result from this and I want you to girls safe. Take your time and visit with Selene. She's kind of stoic but I think you two will get along well once you break the ice."
"But I want you there too Naruto! We're going to be a family." said Ildi despondently.
"I'll get there as soon as I can Ildi, I promise." said Naruto. "Do you need a ride? Selene could probably give you a lift in her Jaguar."
"Tee hee hee. No need Naruto; I got new wheels." Ildi sounded excited….very excited.
"Oh? Did the damn insurance company come through finally?" asked Naruto.
Ildi giggled. "Nope. Daddy got me a black Ducati GT1000. He collects motorcycles so he gave me one. It got dropped off this morning. It is one sweet ride. It's not a full fledge racer but it will haul ass. If you're nice to me I'll take you for a ride."
Naruto chuckled. "I'll be extra nice to then Ildi. I love you and I'll see you later."
"Okay, I'll see you soon Naruto." said the excitable lycan hybrid. "I love you; bye!"
….
they could just tell that this meeting was not going to go the way the kitsune had planned. Not only had he interrupted Naruto's day but also a date with his mates. Nope this was not going to end well for them, much to the Shinobi amusement.
Hotel Palazzo Zichy
Naruto arrived in his BMW at the hotel at precisely 4:45 PM. When he came into the front desk saw a very petite Japanese woman in a suit/skirt combination was waiting for him. He could sense she was a kitsune easily because she wasn't hiding her aura. She bowed traditionally and Naruto returned the gesture. "I bid you greetings Naruto-sama, I am Chie; Kazuo-sama's interpreter. I am most pleased to meet you. Please follow me and I will take you to Kazuo-sama."
Naruto followed quietly and said as they took the elevator up, "I suppose Kazuo-san was too good or too afraid to come greet me himself. How pitiful."
This had the room laughing at how the politician had already made a mistake by not meeting him. It was a show of disrespect. It implied that you were below them. This was not a good way to start a meeting with someone such as Naruto, someone who had been a warrior for centuries.
Chie cringed. Naruto was in a basic business suit and a trench coat. He was dressed for a casual meeting and Kazuo-sama was dressed in formal Japanese robes. It was obvious by his appearance and demeanour that Naruto thought very little of Kazuo-sama. ['Ordinarily I would have said Naruto-sama was being very disrespectful but even with his power hidden Naruto-sama's aura is overwhelming.'] thought the tiny vixen. 'I hope he does not get angry. Even without studying Naruto-sama's brutal background I would find him very frightening. Just how strong is he?'
As they entered the opulent room Saburo bowed to Naruto and said, "I am Kazuo-sama's bodyguard Saburo. I'm afraid I will have to search your person for weapons as I cannot allow you to threaten Kazuo-sama's safety. I'm sure you understand."
Naruto pinned the younger kitsune with a glare of concentrated killing intent and said, "If you so much as touch me I will kill you boy."
This had Kushina and tsume laughing again while Minato could not help but sigh as this was something that Kushina has done. She did it to Fugaku Uchiha when he tried to stop her from meeting her friend Mikoto. He was not pleased with Kushina afterwards.
The bodyguard feared for his life and the look in Naruto's blazing blue eyes said he was deadly serious. Retired Counsellor Kazuo came out dressed in his finery and said, ["Now, now Saburo, Naruto-sama is beyond reproach; there is no need to search him. Please forgive young Saburo, Naruto-sama. He is very committed to his duty to protect me and meant no offence. Please forgive his impropriety."]
Saburo bowed several times and said, ["A thousand apologies Naruto-sama; I meant no disrespect."]
In the old days Naruto would have bounced Saburo off the wall and said, Of course I'm armed to the teeth you fool; I am a warrior! However, Naruto decided to play along and be diplomatic about things since he didn't know the full scope of the situation yet. 'There is no need to take unnecessary risks at this juncture.' thought the blonde. "Very well, I'll let it pass this time…." growled Naruto.
"FINALLY!" yelled out a thankful Tsunade at the idea of Naruto using patience as it was not something he had ever done around her, what she did not know was that there was a massive folder with all of his pranks that had taken extensive amounts of planning and recon to pull off. This folder was only rivalled by his mothers folder.
"Wonderful!" said Kazuo in a warm tone. "I must say it is an honour to meet you in person. I've been of the opinion for centuries that the Inari Kitsune should have reached out to you sooner. You are of the noblest of blood after all."
'Typical politician; buttering me up with sweet phrases so he can stab me in the back later.' thought Naruto as Kazuo lavished him with praise. They soon had a sumptuous traditional high class Japanese meal. Naruto's thoughts on it all were summed up with; 'I'd have been fine with ramen.' Actually Naruto would rather have been with the girls instead of dealing with all this political crap….
This got a embarrassed laugh from Kushina as she was where that particular addiction came from. Not to mention the snickers from those that knew him.
…
Comme Chez Soi restaurant
Selene pulled up in her black Jaguar to a stop-light near the restaurant and felt a presence beside her as a motorcycle pulled up. Looking at the rider her eyes flashed red for a second and the motorcyclist raised her visor showing identical eyes. Then both of their eyes faded back to brown and blue respectively. Ildi lowered her visor again and the pair parked at the Comme Chez Soi in adjacent spots. Ildi hopped off her bike and took off her helmet that revealed her hair tied back with a simple band. She was wearing a new black leather biker jacket that she got with her Ducati and black helmet she got from her Father. He'd been very interested in meeting Naruto. 'I hope Daddy doesn't try to intimidate Naruto with his bad boy image.' she thought worriedly. 'Daddy and the six idiots (her 'pet' name for her older brothers) would end up beaten senseless and Naruto probably wouldn't break a sweat….I'll have to ask Naruto to treat them with kid gloves.'
There was a snort from Kushina at this. Kakashi however just sighed. The Naruto he knew did not even know that holding back was a thing.
Selene got out of her Jaguar and saw Ildi take off her helmet. Noticing Ildi's slender form, nice bust and pretty face, the Death Dealer thought to herself. 'This girl is beautiful. Naruto never told me that she was this attractive. I wonder how strong she is.'
Ildi turned to Selene and noticed they were close to the same height. Looking over Selene's lithe form and perfect face, Ildi thought, 'Wow; she's gorgeous! She could easily be a model. I'll bet she's plenty strong too. Naruto wouldn't be with her if she wasn't.' Ildi gave a friendly smile and held out a leather gloved hand. "I'm Ildi; I very happy to meet you at last Selene."
Tsume giggled at the fact that their strength was considered by both. It was not surprising as for the pack to be safe they need to be able to defend it and thus they would, even if sub conciously, be looking for the capability to defend the pups.
Selene shook Ildi's hand and felt a slight jolt of electricity between the two women. She could sense Ildi was genuinely happy to meet her. Selene gave a small smile. "I'm Selene; I'm pleased to meet you as well."
In the backs of their minds both women had been concerned that a catfight would break out between them without Naruto there but were relieved that they had good first impressions of one another. Ildi said, "Well, shall we go in big sister Selene?"
Selene wasn't so sure about the 'big sister' part but nodded regardless. "Yes, it looks like a line is already started. We'll reserve a table for three for us and Naruto."
…
Hotel Palazzo Zichy
"To tell you the truth Naruto-sama, your military exploits have astounded the Inari Kitsune for years." said Kazuo in praise. "You should write a treatise on your many great military exploits through the centuries; I'm sure you would gain a great following from that. So many would be absolutely fascinated."
The blonde shook his head. "I have no desire for glory or any kind of following. I never have." Kazuo was about to say something to the contrary but Naruto's patience was wearing thin. "I'm afraid I have a schedule to keep Kazuo-san. Rather than lavishing me with unnecessary praise; why don't you tell me your real reason for calling me here?"
"Ah, as to be expected of a great military mind Naruto-sama." said Kazuo. "The situation is this; there is no doubt that you would be renowned in our social order was it not for the prejudice of certain narrow minded individuals in Zenko society. You were ostracized from birth and yet you have mastered your powers in a manner even the exalted Kurama-sama himself would be proud of. After much discussion amongst the Inari Kitsune Celestial Council of 50 it was decided that you should be respected as a proper Lord in our society. The only objection was some considered your blood tainted by your half human heritage. However, the Enlightened Council came up with a brilliant solution so that your future children would be eligible to hold their own places on the Council."
"Fucking politicians" growled out Tsunade getting the kage to agree with her. The man was weaving a large amount of unnecessary baggage into what should be a simple sentence.
Naruto wanted to yawn but kept a straight face. "So what is this brilliant solution your zenko council has come up with?" asked Naruto in a bored tone.
Kazuo motioned to Chie. "Chie my dear, please cast the appearance of your beautiful mistress Himeko-sama in her finery."
Chie looked very confused and said, "K-Kazuo-sama; it would not be proper for me to imitate the form of Himeko-sama. She is my mistress."
Kazuo smiled and said, "…And I know that you know Himeko-sama's beauty best as a result. Would you rather Saburo or myself do it? Only you could show the true grace and poise of your beautiful mistress."
"I will do this Kazuo-sama but know I do not approve of this." said Chie. Kazuo nodded indulgently and Chie transformed herself into the dazzling beauty of her mistress Himeko. Naruto raised an eyebrow and Saburo looked love struck.
"Is this celestial creature not divine Naruto-sama?" asked Kazuo with a slight blush of his own. "Chie is in the image of her mistress, the next in line to be the High Priestess to Inari-sama. Not only is she virtuous and beautiful; she is a nine tail of immense power. The Inari Kitsune Celestial Council of 50 has made arrangements so that you may have her as your bride. Her status would guarantee that none of your no doubt many children would be cleansed of any taint or prejudice against them through Inari-sama's blessings."
Chie was shocked back into her normal appearance by this proposal. She whispered loudly, "WHAT?! You wish to give Himeko-sama to Naruto-sama as his WIFE? She would-"
"I can understand the girls shock" stated Ino she would not be happy to be in such a situation, on either end. While the others in the room nodded in agreement the could only wait to see Narutos reaction as it had been minimal so far.
Kazuo chuckled, "Your mistress Himeko-sama has made it abundantly clear that she will only accept a mate as strong as she is and none have ever measured up. Naruto-sama's power is even greater than Himeko-sama's. Naruto-sama would gain the respect and Lordship that he deserves and at long last Himeko-sama would finally continue the line to be the future High Priestesses of Inari."
Chie was dumbstruck and Naruto said, "So you want to use me as breeding stock for this line of Inari Priestesses."
"well that was blunt" sniggered out Kakashi with a giggling Anko beside him. There was a smile on his parents faces as he just called them out on their plan instantly.
"Naruto-sama, it would be a small price to pay to get all the wealth and respect you deserve." said Kazuo. "Besides, there are men who would give a limb to have such a divine creature as their mate and the Mother of your progeny."
The blonde stood up and shook his head. "This was a complete waste of my time. I've lived without 'wealth and respect' from the zenko this long; I don't need it now….and beauty is only skin deep."
This caused Kushina to completely collapse as her son torpedoed the idea instantly. The fact that he had completely ignored the proposed woman just made her laugh more.
Kazuo gasped. "Naruto-sama, think of what you are saying!"
Naruto's eyes blazed red and the temperature seemed to drop below freezing in the room. "The zenko took my Mother from me and have hated me for 1400 years. Do you really think that would change if I was in a forced into a loveless marriage with some shrew of a priestess? I'd laugh at the concept if I weren't so angry. Consider yourself blessed that I don't take your life for this insult Kazuo. You are a child compared to me…Tell your so-called Enlightened Council that if they plan any attacks me or those I care for then I will raze the Palace of Toyoura and everyone in it to the ground for what they've done to my family."
This caused those in the room to shiver. Very few had ever seen an enraged Naruto and after seeing this the hoped they never would. Naruto was already considered highly destructive when he was in combat and was trying to limit the damage, they could only shiver at the thought of what he would do if he was INTENDING to cause damage.
Kazuo tried to say something but he was frozen in terror….and Naruto vanished in a swirl of blue fox fire…
…
Several minutes later Chie awoke with a start. She was lying on the couch. "W-what happened? I remember Naruto-sama was very angry and refused Himeko-sama's hand…He even called her a shrew!"
Kazuo looked at her and said, "Do not worry my dear. Both you and Saburo passed out from Naruto-sama's sheer killing intent. I'm a four tail and I nearly fainted myself. You and Saburo are only a one and two tail respectively. It was simply too much for your mental defences to handle. I fear I totally underestimated Naruto-sama and angered him greatly. His killing intent was so crushing that I feared death was going to take me. This mission was a total failure and I am to blame. I felt I could manipulate him through flattery and it horrendously backfired. He saw right through me and the council's plans…He is as powerful and wise as his 1400 years would indicate. I never stood chance. His power is on a completely different level than mine."
Chie said, "Naruto-sama said the zenko took his Mother from him."
Kazuo nodded. "Some things are best buried in the past. It is not to be discussed child."
The young vixen thought to herself, 'What is going on? I must speak to Himeko-sama the moment I get back…]
Chie would not sleep well that night at all….
"It seems that Naruto has an idea of what happened to you Kushina" Said Tsunade, This gained a frown from the crimson woman as she had been wondering why she was not their for her son.
It smelled of foul play to her. It did however seem that it was something that this council wanted hidden. It also seemed like as with all secrets it was going to come out some time soon.