Chapter 47

"I don't know why you brought more people. You're all still gonna die." All eyes turned from the dinner table and to the boy now standing on the stairway, his expression dark and unwavering as he stared down the group. They all recognized him as the boy seen in many pictures on the wall, answering a dark question for the new arrivals.

Unfortunately for the kid, not many of them cared for what they perceived as childish ignorance. Sasuke had long since tuned out the kid since their first interaction, Kakashi and the ANBU had heard worse in their time in Black Ops, and the rest of Team 7 were too wrapped in their former Sensei's retelling of his fight with Itachi and Kisame to care.

"...So like I was saying, he suddenly started making hand-signs, and before I knew it, the entire village was underwater. You should have seen it."

"Your luck is as bad as Falcon says." Hinata said with a chuckle, the Falcon mask next to her shaking her head with a shrug.

"I told you, he's a magnet for finding trouble. If anything, I'd be more concerned if nothing happened when around this guy." The ANBU point to the blonde. Of course, he was offended by the clear slander.

"I do not find trouble...it just tends to find me most of the time."

"Guilty as charged," Sakura jumped in, taking the opportunity to tease the usually unflappable boy.

"Tell them about our mission to Snow. Better yet, tell them about our simple C-rank escort mission that turned S-rank. I got two more if you want to keep denying." Tenten pushed further, no doubt a smirk behind her mask.

"...I don't like these questions." Naruto grumbled.

"Wait, so is this why our C-rank suddenly became A?" Sakura dramatically exclaimed. "Look what you've done Sensei! Now we're cursed as well!"

"St-stop ignoring me!" Inari shouted, fist balled and his face red with anger. "You're all going to die! Any moment now, Gatō is gonna come here and kill you all without even breaking a sweat! He has hundreds of men, mercenaries, and thugs, and you're all just—just sitting here eating like none of it matters!"

He stopped to breathe after his short spell, taking in gulps of air as he waited for their looks of despair, the same everyone in the village, including him, had felt the day Gatō arrived.

Except he was being ignored once again. That only added fuel to his rage. Stomping towards the table, his foot slammed against the wooden railing, causing a faint creak as he shouted once more at the Shinobi, "Are you even listening?! You're all going to die! Gatō is unstoppable! You don't know what he's capable of!"

This time, his words got the attention of someone, specifically Naruto, who raised a single brow in mild curiosity. "Who's the kid?"

"That's Tsunami-san's only son, Inari," Hinata replied, having been the most familiar with the boy out of the group.

"Why is he such a downer?" The blonde inquired further.

"His dad was killed when Gatō came to the island. Since then, he's convinced himself that heroes are fools and no one can stand up to Gatō."

Inari glared at her, tears welling up in his eyes as his frustration boiled over. "That's right! You're all doomed! Gatō's men destroyed this place! They killed anyone who fought back! You think just because you're a shinobi, you're untouchable? All heroes are stupid! You're all idiots if you think you can beat him!"

While the kid growled at the Shinobi, Naruto was pondering. A moment later, a fist smacked into a palm as the blonde seemed to figure something out. "That's who you remind me of. Neji, you used to be just like this before I kicked your ass."

Said Hyuga's eye twitched behind his mask while Tenten burst into hysterics.

"While I admit to allowing fate to control aspects of my life, never insinuate that I was as obnoxious as a petulant child again." His tone was clipped, clearly offended by the comparison.

The glare did nothing to his former teammate, who looked back to Inari before, in an act that surprised even the boy, began rubbing his head reassuringly. "Don't worry, kid, before we leave, I promise to kick Gatō's ass. You can count on it."

Though the tears that welled up in the boy's eyes could be misconstrued as joy, they were anything but. Smacking the blonde's hand away, Inari ran for the front door, opening it and stepping out onto the porch.

With his head down, he completely missed the figure blocking his way and crashed into their legs, falling back and landing on his bottom with a thud and a grunted "Ouch". A glare was immediately on his face as he looked up at who had obstructed his exit.

The anger left like a gust of wind, leaving his mouth hanging open and his body nailed to the floor.

The person was tall (at least, taller than him) with a high-collared black coat and belt, along with boots and armor on her arms, left knee, and under her chest, enhancing their combat-ready look. A black shirt and short shorts with weirdly patterned stockings were visible underneath, along with a dagger and sword held securely onto her belt.

Despite the oddity that was her clothes, it was the red that decorated both it and her skin that caused the boy to freeze.

From head to toe, she was covered in red, some even dripping from her hair to paint the ground a dark shade.

"Sorry," she apologized, her voice was low, casual even. "Is this where the bridge builder Tazuna lives?"

Inari did not answer. Gasps left his lips, and tears once again formed in his eyes, his entire body shaking as he stared up at the red-stained figure.

"Oh, there you are." Naruto suddenly appeared behind the boy, freezing similarly to the boy as he took in her appearance. "Why are you covered in blood?"

Byleth's answer was to give a thumbs up, "I handled the situation." She proudly stated, practically preening at her accomplishment.

"Did you kill him?" Naruto asked.

"No, but I did kill his goons. Now he works for me, and I'm rich." If possible, her sheen became brighter, a smile spreading on her face to add to the image.

"What happened to the best solutions not being the most immediate?"

"That was, and still is, the case... Then he said he'd let his goons take me one by one after he was done. So I broke all of their legs and put a sword through their hearts to make an example. Now I'm the boss now."

"And, you just left him? Alone?"

"Of course not. I left four clones with him just in case—one to learn everything he knows and the other three as bodyguards. Told them to break his legs if he tries to run."

Naruto didn't say anything for a long moment, staring at her in stunned silence as his mind processed her casual, almost cheerful recounting of the carnage she'd wrought. Inside his head, Sothis was of a similar mind, but far less reserved in her judgment of the bluenette, seeing as she was currently calling her anything but virtuous.

"Well? Can I come in now?" Byleth asked somewhat impatiently.

"D-don't!" Inari suddenly yelled, the boy having broken from his frozen state to take cover behind the blonde. "S-she's covered in blood! She's a monster!"

Byleth's face scrunched up, a clear sign of offense at the comment.

"I agree with the kid. Come back when you've bathed." Before Byleth could get in a word, the blonde closed the door in her face and walked back to join the group in silence.

It didn't take very long for Byleth to return, and while still slightly damp from the bath (which was likely just her jumping into the river if the splash they heard earlier was anything to go by), her attire was a welcome change from the bloodstains she'd previously worn. That did not stop Inari from standing as far away from the woman as possible, specifically behind his mother who had joined the group downstairs after not too long following the new arrival.

"So, why is she here exactly?" Sakura spoke, looking to the newcomer in not-so-concealed annoyance, a feeling that was shared by Inari and, surprisingly, Sasuke.

Actually, it may not be so surprising considering the one and only time he had summoned her to train with the group, he had thoroughly trounced her in taijutsu. Then, in a bout of Uchiha arrogance, spoke ill of her abilities and demanded a 'challenge'.

He was humbled soon after. Tends to happen when you have your skull repeatedly smashed into the ground.

Sakura hated her because Sasuke hated her. Enough said.

"She's my new apprentice, so she goes where I go." Naruto answered matter-of-factly.

"We're here to save your asses," Byleth unnecessarily added.

"A bit late for that." Sakura smugly shot back. "Took care of the problem all by ourselves. Even helped Kakashi-sensei capture an A-rank missing-nin and his B-rank apprentice. Not bad for our first C-rank turned A-rank mission, eh?"

"That's cute," Byleth said, leaning back against the wall and casually dismissing the pinkette to get to a different matter. "So if the danger is gone, what's our next step? Just wait until the bridge is done?"

"Pretty much." Naruto confirmed.

"Well, this was boring..." She crossed her arms with a pout.

"What did you expect?"

"I don't know. Action? Maybe a first-hand experience of your job description, in the shadows and all."

"Unless you're ANBU or Jonin, most missions aren't like that in the slightest." The ANBU Captain spoke up.

"Yeah, they're either boring escort missions or just D-rank work that can be anything from walking dogs to babysitting. It's a pain in the ass," Tenten added.

"...So, you're all just glorified public servants?"

"W-well, you're not wrong, but-"

"Uh, heLLO?" Sakura called all attention back to her. "Sorry, but are we all just gonna ignore the major problem in this country? Like how a crime lord basically runs the island and is terrorizing its citizens, or how 95% of them are all starving?"

"I don't believe that was the job you were assigned, Genin Sakura." The ANBU Captain spoke again, his tone neither scolding nor condescending. "In fact, the mission was over the moment Kakashi deduced that the mission went outside what is demanded of a C-rank. The only reason the bridge builder isn't currently on his way back to T&I is due to Kakashi-senpai's mercy. We are Shinobi, not heroes."

The words had both the bridge builder's family and Sakura looking uncomfortable, the former blocking her son further from view while the latter looked more guilty than anything. Nevertheless, that did not entirely kill Sakara's mood.

"S-still, that doesn't mean I can't help them, sir." The girl replied, a determination now burning in her eyes. "I've seen their suffering, their pain, no one should have to go through that. We are here and have the power to make change. If I have the power to help people, why shouldn't I use it?"

"..."

"...Spoken like a certain fool we know." Tenten said, nudging Neji in the shoulder and earning a huff, though he made no move to deny her words.

"I'm so proud of you, Sakura." Naruto gave his input with a thumbs up, making the girl blush in embarrassment and look away while idly twirling a lock of her hair.

"It matters not how you feel. Gatō's shipping company spans far wider than a simple island. Many nations use his business, Konoha's enemies included. There is little that can be done to change the status quo without severe repercussions. Even if we were to eliminate the man himself, there are a number of factors that could and will cause this island to fall apart. As the highest-ranking officer currently assigned to this mission, I cannot allow any of you to take action that will put the security of Konoha at risk."

The entire room went silent at his words, the severity and coldness of which carried a clear meaning. Many in the room were uncomfortable, most being Tsunami who looked resigned while Inari looked oddly frustrated despite his earlier words. Sakura's hands balled into her lap in frustration while Hinata and Sasuke seemed to have already accepted their situation. The only four who seemed unfazed by the words were the formerly known Team 4 and Byleth. The former due to their previous field experience, while the other...

"Uh," Byleth raised a hand, getting the captain's attention, "hypothetically speaking, and this is only hypothetical, what would happen if Gatō was, I don't know, usurped?"

Her question was followed by silence. She couldn't see the expression behind the man's mask, nor could she discern any emotion from the man's chakra, but his stance shifted in a way that made her think he was giving her an incredulous look.

"What have you done?"

Amegakure

"It is as we've been told: Uzumaki Naruto has improved significantly since the Chunin Exams."

"More than improved. Kid actually made me sweat. Makes a guy wonder what kinda challenge he'll be in a couple of years."

Pain and Konan took in the information from Itachi and Kisame's holograms, the pair currently stationed in a small village some 15 kilometers from Wave. Itachi, as ever, remained impassive and stoic as he delivered his report while Kisame was, as usual, far less reserved.

"Then the snake's information was valid." Konan concluded briefly, looking to their leader and awaiting his orders.

"It matters not how skilled the boy is. As long as Orochimaru keeps to his word, our plans will remain on schedule." Turning from the duo, his eyes landed on another hologram, this one alone. "And what of Iwa?"

"Onoki has recalled the Jinchuuriki. They are expected to arrive within the week." Kakuzu reported.

"Then the board will soon be set. Remain vigilant and keep me updated."

Without even a confirmation, the three holograms flickered out, leaving Konan and Pain with the third hidden member of their group.

The time for peace was nigh.

Wave: Bridge

A bridge wasn't something that could be built in a day. It took planning, manpower, and a lot of time—something of which Wave simply did not have, or didn't have. Though they no longer had to worry about Gatō or anyone killing them, they still had a substantial amount of work to be done.

Is what Tazuna would have said if the super blonde brat hadn't appeared at his doorstep.

Two days. With the blonde's super cloning abilities, it had only taken two days for them to complete the bridge connecting Wave to the Land of Fire. It was hard to wrap his head around, but the evidence was right in front of him.

"Gotta say, brat, you and your friends are truly super ninja."

The boy puffed his chest out in apparent pride, his face maintaining that deadpan look the elder was sure was permanent. "All in a day's work."

Tazuna chuckled at the reply. "You might be cocky, but I'll be damned if you don't back it up."

"I take pride in that. Though if you're really feeling grateful, you could always name the bridge after me. Just as a reminder that you were once helped by a Hokage."

A boisterous laugh from the bridge builder followed the statement. "The day I name a bridge after a brat will be the day I shave! Tell ya what, I'll throw your name in the poll when we decide. That sound fair to you?"

"Of course. Never thought I'd want my name on a bridge, but I'm not gonna say no either... Hold that thought." Suddenly, the blonde ducked, and not a minute too soon as Kubikiribōchō cut the space his head had previously occupied, the force of the swing producing a gust of wind that nearly took Tazuna off his feet. A moment later, Hinata appeared in front of the blonde, her arm poised to incapacitate her target before he could recuperate.

Unfortunately for her, and the pinkette who had swung her newly acquired sword, their sensei wasn't easily taken off guard. Standing straight up, the Tokubetsu Jonin first caught Hinata's arm and redirected her momentum, spinning her around before gently but firmly pinning her arm behind her back. At the same time, he stepped inside Sakura's swing, using one hand to stop all momentum by her wrist.

Next, he swung Hinata around, releasing her with just enough force to send her stumbling while also attempting to do the same to the pinkette. She was prepared and dug her heels in. Despite the obvious disparity in strength and training, she managed to halt his momentum, but it cost her the sword, and a broken nose from his forehead crashing into it.

The moment her fingers slackened around the handle, the Tokubetsu Jonin twisted his hips, pulling her arm around with him. In a show of both precision and ingenuity, he slammed the sword over her head and into the hole at the base of the sword. The sword was pulled back, causing her to gag as her neck met the inside of the hole and making her feet leave the ground momentarily. Not stopping there, he swung the sword over his head and flung it over the edge of the bridge, taking the pinkette with it into the depths below.

It was just enough time to engage Hinata as she recovered from her earlier stumble. The Hyuga dashed forward, her Byakugan blazing with intensity as she aimed for his vital points with her signature Gentle Fist strikes. Naruto deflected with precise parries, moving faster than the normal eye could track.

On the side, Tazuna stared, his mouth slack. Next to him, another Naruto appeared literally out of thin air to watch his counterpart engage the Genin.

"This normal?" Tazuna spoke up first.

"It's a game we play. If they can kill me before the Chunin Exams, I will teach them something cool. Haven't really succeeded, and I doubt they ever will."

"...But, if you're dead, how will they get the reward?"

"I'm built different. I'd think you'd know that by now, Sasuke."

A moment of silence passed between the two, neither of their eyes leaving the action in front of them. Sakura had returned from the edge, wet and with a bloody nose but ready to go again as she swung her sword at what she thought was a distracted Jonin. At least she now knew that doing so wasn't such a good idea when her teammate could easily be used as a human shield. Thankfully, she had the control to stop the swing. That unfortuantely had the consequence of having Hinata kicked into her, making them both fall in a tangle of limbs.

"When did you realize?" The henged Genin inquired.

"When I threw Hinata. Your Body Replacement Jutsu has improved, but it can still use some work."

"Hn."

"..."

"...I'm still not strong enough to kill him, am I?"

"Not with that attitude." The blonde paused. "Ok, you're not, but you're a lot closer than you were a few months ago. Two years of constant training will do that to you. I expect a thank you, by the way. I took time out of my life to make you guys stronger. Ramen is on you guys for the foreseeable future."

"Hn..."

"..."

"..."

"...Out of curiosity, why aren't you helping them?" Naruto got a raised brow for the question. "Fair point."

Nothing more was said after that.

In the distance, the real Tazuna observed the scene from where he had been replaced with the lookalike, his thoughts quiet even when the swordplay eventually evolved into Ninja Magic being flung around his newly constructed bridge.

'These kids are something else.'

"WOOOOOOO! FASTER! FASTER!" Turning at the sound of a happy grandson, he found a blur. Running up and down the bridge was the man who had terrorized his home for ages on all fours, his grandson secured to his back as he crawled as fast as his old body could go.

Supervising the sight was his daughter Tsunami, looking serene as another newcomer, a woman with exceptional...personality, stood next to her, standing in a way that accentuated her exposed cleavage with a smirk. More than likely, the foreigner was, once again, flirting with his daughter, and as the kind soul Tsunami is, she was humoring her.

The scene made him smile. It had been years since he had seen such peace and happiness in his home. They were a bit eccentric, but at least they put a smile on his family's faces.

Iwagakure

"Akio Kenji recommends Team Hawk for the mission to Konoha, Sir."

Onoki observed the Jonin and Genin before him, specifically two individuals amongst the team. One, obviously, was his granddaughter, the girl having improved by leaps and bounds after her one-sided defeat to Namikaze's spawn. Any and all arrogance she had once had was gone, replaced with the desire to improve.

Then there was Katsuo.

Of the team, he had had the most significant change when it came to outward appearance. He still wore the uniform typical of an Iwa-nin. However, underneath the uniform were bandages from his feet up to his neck. Whether it was from injury or not, Onoki didn't know, nor did he care. The only thing that mattered was that the late clan head of Tamahagane had sworn he would now be useful, and that was all the Tsuchikage needed to know.

"And why do you believe your team would benefit Iwa more than any other?" The Kage had to ask, putting an obstacle before the Jonin that he wouldn't have even thought twice about if it were any other team. Though he was a Kage, he was still human, and any danger he perceived his granddaughter to be in, he would try to remove at all costs.

"For the simple fact that my team has the most experience with the targets." Akio Kenji explained, his face as straight and unflappable as always. "My Genin were the ones who engaged Uzumaki in the Chunin Exams, so it is tactically sound that a team with history is sent on this mission. Furthermore, they have proven themselves the most competent out of any current Genin team with a willingness to adapt and learn. While this may seem a common trait amongst any Genin, it is especially crucial in dealing with the unpredictable nature of Shinobi life. I have the utmost faith they will all make it to the finals once more, making Iwagakure's mission more likely to succeed."

'Well said, boy.' Onoki thought. Outwardly, the Kage nodded, giving his approval, and thus the Jonin's plan. "Though I do not question your team's competence, there are concerns that must be brought up, specifically concerning sending a Clan Head into the heart of our enemy."

All eyes landed on Katsuo, the teen remaining stoic and unflinching under the sudden scrutiny. If it had been a year ago, the boy certainly would have taken offense to the implication, perhaps even challenging the Tsuchikage's decision. Now, however, the boy simply accepted it as fact.

"With all due respect, Tsuchikage-sama, I am a shinobi first and a clan head second. My duty to the Village and my team will always come first. As a representative of my clan, I will do whatever is necessary to ensure Iwagakure comes out on top as any shinobi would."

The words were spoken without a hint of hesitation or wavering, almost as if it were practiced. Seems they were prepared for this briefing. Even if he suspected that their reasons behind their recommendation was purely for closure in the Clan Head's case, it did not detract from the fact they were the most qualified.

"Very well then. Your nomination for the exams has been accepted. The mission briefing shall take place two weeks from now. Prepare how you will."

In unison, Team Hawk saluted the Tsuchikage before turning around and exiting the office, leaving the Kage alone with his thoughts.

The time for vengeance was nigh.

Two days later...

Konoha

"I'm glad to see you all back alive and...well." Hiruzen paused as his eyes swept over the group crowding his office.

The first to catch his attention, of course, was the foreign Jinchuuriki who, despite looking unharmed and healthy, held a faraway look, staring into space without seeming to notice anything around her. Next to her was Naruto, safe and untouched, and next to him was Team 7. Sasuke and Kakashi both looked as pristine as when they left, but it was the two young ladies next to the Uchiha that changed the entire picture of whether or not the mission had gone smoothly.

The most noticeable difference was the sword strapped to the pinkette's back, it being twice her size in length and nearly surpassing her in width. Next was her blackened left eye, and the tattered remains that were her clothes. Did he forget to mention she was bald?

Next to her, Hinata was no different. Her clothes, much like her teammate's, were ripped to shreds, scorch marks covering the majority of the fabric. Where the pinkette's hair was missing entirely, the Hyuga's was now curled into a frown. Where the pinkette had a black eye, she had glasses drawn with a brief message under her eyelids that read 'I'm an idiot sandwich'.

Behind them were the three the ANBU, the only presentable shinobi before him.

Hiruzen's mouth opened to continue but closed soon after. A brief moment of silence passed before his curiosity got the better of him. "Ok, what happened?"

Instead of the girls answering for themselves, Naruto spoke in their stead, "They tried to blow me up in my sleep, so I blew them up." Both girls both turned to their right, their anger directed not at the blonde, but at their raven-haired teammate. "Sasuke didn't help, so he was spared."

That added fact added perspective as to why the Uchiha has gained their ire instead of the blonde.

Hiruzen then turned to the Jinchuuriki.

"She's sad she couldn't seduce the housewife." Was all Naruto said, and Hiruzen saw no reason to go further into it—even if his inner self giggled at the sacred knowledge.

Clearing his throat, he reached into his drawer, pulling out a scroll and unfurling it onto his desk. "For a job well done, and for the extra trouble for the safe transfer of two missing-nin, Konoha awards you with A-rank pay. Take pride, for this will go on your records for future referrals."

Sasuke's expression remained passive, but a glint shone in his eyes as he stared at the scroll, and even the Hyuga and Sakura had a visible shift in posture, a silent indication of their excitement.

"That will be all for Team 7. Genin, ANBU, you are dismissed. Kakashi, Naruto, Eisner-san, a word."

The ANBU nodded, Tenten giving Naruto one final salute with a 'See you next time, Naruto,' before vanishing in a swirl of leaves.

Team 7 didn't leave as quietly as the ANBU. Sakura and Hinata were now glaring at the blonde, their gazes expectant.

"You promised." Sakura accused, to which the blonde blinked, clearly oblivious.

"What are you talking about?"

"Don't act dumb! You promised to fix us when we returned!" The pinkette gestured to her head, still as bald as when they first walked through the gates of Konoha.

"I didn't forget. I just thought you would use the humiliation to learn from your mistakes." The blonde's words didn't help in pacifying the girls. In fact, it only made Sakura apoplectic, and Hinata wasn't too far off, if a bit more tamed.

"Look. At. My. HEAD. What the HELL am I supposed to learn from this?! LOOK AT MY HEAD!"

Everyone in the room winced at the former pinkette's volume. Even Naruto took a cautious step back. "Ok, I will return you to normal once I'm done-"

"Naruto-kun," Hinata's calm and collected voice contrasted with her teammate's, and while that would have usually been enough to pacify the blonde, her expression was the one thing that made sweat want to escape his pores. "On our way to Konoha, you promised to fix us—that our punishment would be forgiven. Are you, or are you not, a man of your word?"

Naruto blinked slowly at the duo, the threat of physical violence and questioning of his integrity. He looked to Kakashi, then Sasuke, and finally the Hokage in hopes of finding someone to back his logic. Kakashi suddenly had his nose in his book, Sasuke refused to even look his way, and the Hokage raised a brow as if to ask 'why are you looking at me'. Even Sothis was no help, the goddess ignoring his plea for help with a 'huff'.

A deep breath was taken, and a long, drawn-out sigh left the blonde before, with just a poke of his index fingers onto their forehead, their hair was restored to normal.

Examining their hair thoroughly, Sakura gave a huff of derision while Hinata smiled in satisfaction before adding insult to injury by saying, "I knew you were a man of your word." Saying nothing more, they each filed out of the room, Sasuke silently in tow.

"...Now that the theatrics are done, I take it there is something important you wish to tell me?" Hiruzen got to business once the door had closed. Instantly, the atmosphere of the room turned to that of seriousness, the three in front of him now staring with a look of intensity.

"Hokage-sama, who are the Akatsuki?" Naruto decided against subtlety altogether and went straight into the question he had been meaning to ask since his time in Wave. The abruptness of his words caught even the Hokage off guard, the old man having to take a moment to process the question along with removing any instinctual responses he would give the boy.

"...Where did you hear that name?" Hiruzen inquired, his gaze searching the blonde's expression despite how pointless the act was.

"I got attacked by Uchiha Itachi and a Kiri missing-nin named Kisame in Wave. They were wearing black cloaks with red clouds. Itachi said they were a mercenary group calling themselves Akatsuki, and Kakashi said you would know more about them. So, who are the Akatsuki?"

Hiruzen didn't need to motion his ANBU to silence the room. The moment the organization's name left the blonde's mouth, they had already silenced the room. The tension in the air was thick, and even Kakashi's usual relaxed demeanor was gone. He was watching the Hokage closely, his single visible eye betraying his concern.

Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, a deep sigh escaping him. "The Akatsuki," he began, his voice heavy with the weight of the subject. "They are a rogue organization, composed of highly dangerous and skilled shinobi from various villages. Their motives are shrouded in secrecy, but their actions suggest a far-reaching agenda that could disrupt the balance of power among the nations."

"...If they're so dangerous, why aren't we doing anything about them?" The blonde asked after thoroughly processing the Hokage's words.

"Do not mistake inaction for cowardice, Naruto," Hiruzen said firmly. "The Akatsuki operate in the shadows, and their movements are difficult to track. While we have gathered some intelligence, we lack the means to confront them directly without jeopardizing the safety of our village and allies."

Kakashi spoke up, his voice low but steady. "The Akatsuki are S-rank criminals, Naruto. Uchiha Itachi alone is a significant threat, and he's just one member of their organization. Hoshigaki Kisame is no different. Engaging a group of S-rank Shinobi recklessly would only lead to unnecessary casualties."

Naruto frowned, "So what? We're just gonna let them do whatever they want? What if they attack again?"

"I understand your anger, Naruto-kun. Truly, I do. But you must understand that there is more to this than a provocation," Hiruzen continued, his tone steady but empathetic. "The safety of the village and its people must always come first. The Akatsuki's goals are not entirely clear, but one thing is certain," he stopped momentarily to slowly turn to his right. "Their goals revolve around obtaining the power from Jinchuuriki."

Almost in sync, Naruto and Kakashi's attention turned to Byleth. The Jinchuuriki blinked at the sudden focus on her, her faraway gaze snapping back to reality. "Wait... what?" she asked, her voice soft yet tinged with confusion.

Hiruzen nodded grimly. "The Akatsuki's primary objective, as far as we know, is to capture and exploit the power of the tailed beasts. This makes Jinchuuriki like you prime targets."

Byleth continued to blink despite the severity of the words, not entirely yet grasping the situation. Seeing this, Hiruzen turned back to Naruto. "...How much does she know?"

"Enough," Naruto replied briefly before adding, "at least, what I thought she needed to know. Didn't think it was that important before all of this." Naruto paused before his gaze turned suspicious towards the old man. "Wait, when were you going to tell me there was a group of S-rank shinobi after our heads?"

"...Forgive me, I have no excuse this time." Hiruzen, to the blonde's surprise, did not defend himself and instead gave a bow of his head, a sign of apology. "I will say that the information on Akatsuki is very recent. Not even a month has passed since word of their activities reached my ear, and our intelligence has still been digging into their motives. It is just unfortunate that this is how you must hear about them."

Naruto said nothing, simply staring at the Hokage aimlessly. During that, a sudden memory came to mind, one that needed answers for a completely new matter.

*CRASH*

The world turned a familiar purple, freezing everything in the world aside from two. Seeing this, Hiruzen pushed down his instinctive reaction to defend against the sudden Genjutsu-like phenomenon and instead looked quizzically at the one responsible.

"Back in Wave, Itachi gave me a weird message and told me to deliver it to you specifically," Naruto began, his tone no different than before. "'The Stone is no longer sitting, Otogakure and Sand cannot be trusted, and the leader of the Akatsuki is not...someone. What did he mean by that, and why did he want me to tell you?"

For a moment, the weight of the statement silenced even the Hokage. Eventually egaining composure, he leaned forward, his expression now dark and pensive.

"Itachi..." he murmured, almost to himself. "His message is both a warning and a revelation." He steepled his fingers, his gaze intense and contemplative as if he was deciding whether or not to tell the truth.

Sothis suddenly appearing next to the boy threw away any notion that he had options other than telling the truth.

So he relented, beginning by answering the first question. "The Stone no longer sitting—this likely means Iwagakure is mobilizing, no longer content with maintaining a passive stance in the delicate balance of power. If they are preparing for something, it could lead to unrest, perhaps even war." Hiruzen's voice grew heavier. "Otogakure and Sand cannot be trusted... Alliances. Otogakure is still a fledgling village, but it has always been enigmatic. We know not who their leader is, only that Orochimaru has had dealings with the Daimyo of Sound before his demise. As for the last bit..."

Hiruzen massaged his chin, his thoughts racing as he tried deciphering the incomplete information.

"...The leader of the Akatsuki," he repeated slowly, his voice laced with uncertainty. "This part is troubling. It might suggest that the true leader of the Akatsuki is not who they appear to be, or that it is someone else entirely. Was there nothing else? Perhaps syllables you forgot to mention?"

Naruto shrugged. "That's pretty much all I could get...before Sothis flattened him."

The Goddess huffed. "Forgive me for believing your mind was in peril. I'll be sure to take my time next time."

"That was everything," the blonde added, returning to the subject at hand. "Though, you still haven't answered my last question. Why does Itachi, an infamous nuke-nin, want you to know that? Why tell me at all? Isn't he our enemy?"

Hiruzen's silence was very telling.

"...Let me guess, another secret I'm not supposed to know."

Hiruzen sighed deeply, rubbing his temples as though the weight of the world sat squarely on his shoulders. "Naruto, there are some matters in this world that are far more complex than they appear. Itachi Uchiha is...a delicate matter. Truly, I cannot go any further into the matter. Not until you are Hokage."

He could see the boy's frustration now on his usually placid features, which was never a good sign when it came to their delicate relationship.

"Naruto, I understand your frustration," he said slowly, his voice softer but no less serious. "But some truths carry burdens far heavier than you realize. This is one such truth. It's not about withholding information to undermine you. It's about protecting the delicate balance that keeps this village—and its people—safe."

"It sounds more like you're hiding guilt." Sothis spoke up.

Hiruzen stiffened at her words but did not deny them outright. "Perhaps," he admitted after a long pause. "But guilt and protection often walk hand in hand. What I can say is this: the information you received is credible. If Iwa, Suna, and Oto are to attack, it will likely be at the Exams. Until then, it is best you focus on your training. More than likely, war is at foot, and we must be prepared."

Naruto frowned, still visibly dissatisfied with the lack of answers, but deciding not to push the matter further.

With a thought, the world returned to normal, Sothis vanishing with it and bringing them back to their previous line of conversation.

"So, are we really gonna do nothing about these guys?" Byleth spoke up almost immediately.

Hiruzen regarded Byleth with a grave expression. "At the time being, we bide our time. Our focus must be on gathering more intelligence about their members. For now, we must prepare for the inevitable clash in the future."

Kakashi added, "That means training harder than ever before. If the Akatsuki are targeting Jinchūriki, both of you need to be ready. This isn't just about raw strength; it's about strategy, teamwork, and understanding your opponents."

Naruto crossed his arms, his expression one of determination. "Fine by me."

There was little discussion had after that. Soon, the trio departed, leaving Hiruzen alone and to his thoughts.

It was almost to no surprise that Danzo decided to arrive not minutes after.

It would seem the time for war was nigh.

Omake: Training Sasuke

Sasuke hungrily took in gulps of air as he sat on the grass, his body coated in sweat. Across from him, his mentor leaned forward on his bullshit sword, observing him with a look he couldn't decipher.

"I'm guessing you're ready for round, what is this, 73?"

The Uchiha's response was to flip the blonde off, an act anyone who knew him would have found completely out of character.

"If you're gonna throw hand-signs, then at least let it be a jutsu."

Sasuke growled at the remark but didn't refute it, mainly because he was too tired and bruised to do so. Say what you want about the blonde, but Sasuke could no longer deny that he was leagues ahead of him. They were nearly the same age, yet the blonde clearly had more talent.

'No.' Sasuke corrected himself. 'He isn't better than me. He's just a cheat.' The last part was not his words, but from the blonde himself. He was smart, but having the ability to work twice as hard, repair your own muscles, and even gain 8 times the experience in a single day wasn't something he, nor anyone in this world, could replicate. The only nice thing he was willing to say about the blonde was that he was a hard worker, and the compliments stopped there.

"Well? Are you gonna stand up, or do you need another boost? I can only do three more before we call it a day."

Sasuke glared at the blonde but eventually managed to stand, albeit a bit shakily.

"Geez, you're still at it?"

The Uchiha's gaze turned to the floating girl who had appeared next to the blonde, no longer surprised at the sight of the green-haired otherworldly being.

"He doesn't know when to quit." Naruto shrugged. "Neji was the same way. Took him a while to realize that fighting a sword with your bare hands wasn't just stupid, but impractical if you didn't own a sword of your own. Mainly the reason why he learned Jutsu to counter me. I'm still proud of that, by the way."

"So that's what this is? You're trying to teach me to 'think outside the box'?" Sasuke growled.

"Well, that was one part of it. Pretty sure you already got that part down. More like I'm trying to fix you."

Sasuke narrowed his eyes. "I don't need you to fix anything. I know what I'm doing."

Naruto raised an eyebrow. "If that was true, the Hokage wouldn't have assigned me to help you. You're talented, but talent often doesn't flourish without direction. If talent was all you needed, you would have been able to touch me by now."

Sasuke's eyes flickered with frustration, but he didn't snap back. Naruto had a point, as much as he hated to admit it.

"It's not about brute strength or speed, Sasuke. You've got the power, the technique, the bloodline. You're just too fixated on doing it your way, the Uchiha way. It's holding you back. You are holding you back."

Sasuke clenched his fists, a spark of anger igniting in his chest. He hated hearing those words, but deep down, he knew Naruto was right. The way he'd always approached his training—his entire existence—was focused on revenge, on surpassing his brother, and on proving himself.

He needed the Uchiha style, his pride, his hate. It was what fueled him, what motivated him. Without it, he was a shell. Empty. He couldn't just give that up.

"You're wrong," Sasuke muttered, not looking up. "I don't need your pity or your advice."

Sothis chuckled softly. "It's not pity, child. It's guidance. You're still stuck in the same place you were when we first met. I get it, you've been through a lot, but you're not a kid anymore. You can't just rely on anger and hate to get stronger. It'll only take you so far."

At the ravenette's silence, Naruto stood tall, pushing his sword into the ground like it was a walking stick, his expression now serious. "Look, we're not saying you should forget about your past. It's part of who you are. But you need to stop letting it control you. You've got so much potential. You're not just the last Uchiha; you're Sasuke, someone who can choose his own path."

There was meant to be a moment here. A moment where their words finally broke through to the Uchiha and finally got him to move on and improve. Unfortunately, the duo overestimated their skills in persuasion...or the Uchiha was just that stubborn.

"...Whatever." The single word was followed by a heavy sigh from both the greenette and heterochromic. Seems the Uchiha would be a lot harder to crack...

"Wait," something vital about their conversation suddenly appeared at the forefront of Naruto's mind. "The Uchiha are known for their weird eyes, no? Where are yours?"

His question was followed by an awkward silence, a silence that lasted so long Naruto began to worry he had unknowingly stepped into a minefield.

Then, the Uchiha slowly looked away.

"Don't...have 'em...yet."

The words were spoken so softly that the duo almost didn't hear them.

"Don't have them as in you're never getting them, or as in 'haven't earned them yet'?"

Naruto didn't need Sothis to know he chose his words poorly. Sasuke's glare was more than enough. "The Uchiha gain their eyes through combat, mainly through experiencing strong emotions."

Naruto and Sothis both blinked at the sudden reveal.

"Wait, so, let me get this straight: the eyes are earned through trauma?" Sothis inquired.

"Mostly, yes. There are exceptions, but trauma is their main catalyst."

"The trauma, can it be gained through combat?" Naruto asked next.

"Well...yes."

Sasuke suddenly felt uncomfortable at the way the two were now looking at him. Though their expressions were blank, he could see through their eyes that they were now planning something, and if the past was anything to go by, he knew he wouldn't enjoy whatever it was.

In a blink, four Naruto's were now in front of him. In unison, they all brought their hands together, and behind them and army appeared in a cloud of smoke.

Sasuke choked on his spit.

"Get 'em."

Sasuke felt no shame in tucking tail and running. Unfortunately, he could only get so far. Turning to confront the wave of Shinobi was no doubt a mistake, but he could at least take solace in the fact they wouldn't kill him.

He completely forgot that his sensei was as batshit as any Jonin in this blasted village.

Having his head removed from his body was an experience he didn't think he ever wanted to experience again, along with countless other deaths he wouldn't speak of. At the very least, the pain was only momentary in the dimension, but that didn't take away from the heart-stopping fact that he had died—multiple times at that.

On a positive note, it turns out death is a very good trauma to activate one's dormant Dojutsu. Within a week, it was fully matured. The world looked different now, and Sasuke couldn't deny the thrill that came with the new power in his eyes. The red of the Sharingan was mesmerizing. Everything moved almost in slow motion, and he finally got a glimpse at what it was like to have a God in your head giving you powers that far exceed human capabilities.

And though it filled him with pride to at least be able to see the blonde coming, it also reminded him of the painful truth of both his abilities and the Sharingan's capabilities.

Just because you can see the future, does not mean you can do anything to stop it.

A/N: HAPPY NEW YEAR YOU WONDERFUL PEOPLE! Sorry for the late u[date. This was literally just a build up chapter to the final arc, so it took me a bit more digging to get motivated enough to write this. Following this chapter will be a short training arc between Naruto and the new Team 7 before jumping right into the Chunin Exams. It will be combined into the Konoha Crush arc, so I think we are looking at 7, if not 8 chapters before the final 10.

Note, this story will end in Shippuden! The final chapters will have a time skip, and following that chapter will be the final arc. I want it to be at least 10-12 chapters long, but if it goes over then it goes over. By then, the relationships will be set in stone, and there will be a bit more romance to explore. Was planning to have all this done before January, but things rarely go as planned. *Cough Cough* also got distracted by Marvel Rivals *Cough Cough*

One last thing, ignore the troll in the reviews. It does not effect this story at all, and if anything, gives me more motivation to write. I will gladly take critisism, especially when it is constructive, but telling me to go kill myself over a fanfiction in laughable. Keep them coming. You're only increasing my review count and fueling me with power :D

AS always, thank you all for the follows, favs, reviews, welcome to 2025 and have a DAMN good day!