I do not own Naruto in any way shape or form.
Thank you to everyone who followed, favorited, and reviewed, you're the reason I got off my ass and back to writing, hope I haven't forgotten how to do this. Oh and just for fun go ahead and guess who will be butting heads with the Kiri forces, your choices are A. Tsunade, B. Narumi and Mito, C. a rock, or D. all of the above. Hope you enjoy.
Oh and for fun
Again thank you and enjoy.
Chapter 10
"Talking"
"Thinking/Mental conversation"
"DEMON/God or the like"
"Jutsu"
-Face, to face, to face-
"So are we ready to move?" called a voice across the remnants of what appeared to be a camp made in a small clearing. Above the area the morning sun had only just crested the horizon so that its light touched upon everything green, sending small flashes of light from ever surface still wet with the dew.
In replied to the voice a few figures turned nodding or waving tiredly even as still others simply shot the man responsible a few annoyed looks. Paramount among them were a group of three, two older redheads both of whom stifled small yawns even as the smaller blond along with them just rubbed at his eyes fighting to push away the weariness he felt there.
"Nagato why is he only this animated when he isn't at home?" sighed a redhead woman as she ran a hand back through her hair, even as she settled one emerald eye upon the source of the noise. In reply her fellow redhead gave a small tired shrug as he shook his head.
"I have no idea Mei, trust me Konan and I have been trying to figure out Yahiko for ages, and all we know for sure is that he's special." Replied Nagato as he looked across at his orange haired brother who at the moment was smiling broadly as he looked around the camp to those packing up the last of their previous night's journey.
"How does Konan put up with him I'll never know." Sighed Mei as she looked over to see her son scratching at his bleach blond hair his whiskered cheeks stretched by the yawn he was currently in the middle of.
"Awe, did my little Naruto-kun stay up to late writing letters to his pen pal." Teased Mei as her son looked up to her his irritation at being teased visible even through his waking face.
"You to Kassan?" half wined Naruto as Mei gave a small smile reaching down to ruffle her son's hair as she moved over to check on her Hunter escorts waving back as she went.
"Get used to it Sochi." she called back as her form moved off her red hair swaying back and forth in time to her step. Looking back from his mother Naruto saw his own team slowly pulling themselves up as they continued to seal up the last of their pacts.
"You know she's right, if you hadn't stayed up so late writing letters you wouldn't be tired now." remarked a watery voice as Naruto shot his companion a mental glare.
No one asked you Boku. Called Naruto even as his companion let out a watery chuckle.
"True, but as I live in this particular residence I'm obligated to talk to the land lord now and then. Particularly when he insists on keeping me up all night." Replied Isobu as Naruto drew in a breath before letting it out in a small sigh.
Hai…hai but come on what am I supposed to do when he writes. Replied Naruto as the turtle fell momentarily silent.
-Flashback-
It was the first night of their journey towards Konoha when Naruto had felt the tell tail pulse of chakra from his pouch announcing a message's arrival. As the rest of the group had been finishing up their dinner Naruto had moved a little bit away to pull out a blue and white scroll marked with many introit seals that were gently glowing.
With a small snap Naruto unrolled the scroll watching as with another pulse a new scroll popped into being falling gently into his lap. Smiling slightly Naruto rolled up the blue and white sealed scroll replacing it within his pack before reaching for his newest delivery. The scroll itself had taken him over a month just to get right, but having it work was amazing. It was Jiraiya's idea originally a type of summoning scroll that had a link between to places instead of a summoning realm. With help from Nagato the two had jumped headlong into the project till after what felt like forever they had managed to get it working. They were still rare but Kiri's forces had even taken to deploying them for quick reports and long term missions. Naruto had taken to making his own after seeing them and after enough work he had finally managed to get his own set working.
As he replaced the message scroll he reached down to unroll the newest message immediately noticing something odd as he opened it. Unlike Hinata's clear writing the message seemed to be a messy scrawl that he, for moment, couldn't make out. However, as he focused he was able to make out the message his eyes widening as he felt his heart stop.
Obsessed with the message Naruto did not notice as another member of the camp had moved over to him her soft steps drawing almost no noise as her black eyes fell upon the seated from of Naruto. As a small wind blew through the camp the girls black hair waved gently over her white skin, the blue and white garb of her hunter kunoichi's uniform rustling around her as she reached one hand out to lye gently upon the boy's shoulder.
"Naruto-kun, are you alright?" asked the girl as she saw the boy stiffen slightly as he turned wide blue eyes up to her his face slackened in a look of confusion.
"Haku-chan…I, well….um…help." mumbled the boy as Haku's face took on a quizative look before glancing down to the note in his hands. Leaning over the boy's shoulder her eyes went to work scanning the letter quickly. As Haku's eyes reached the end of the page she felt her lips twitching into a small smile despite herself. Even still she forced herself to keep from laughing as she moved to sink down beside Naruto, making no effort to keep her body from brushing up against his own before she reached out to take the scroll from his hands noting as she did the soft warmth she felt from his hands.
Glancing from the blond who was all but frozen, something that caused her to stifle a giggle at just how innocent he appeared, Haku took to reading the message again this time focusing on what was trying to be said by the writer. The writing may have been a bit sloppy but the young Yuki member was able to make it out all the same.
UTO-NIISAN! WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME YOUR WERE NARUTO NIISAN! DID I DO SOMETHING BAD, KASSAN, TOUSAN MITO, AND NARUMI WON'T TELL ME ANYTHING ABOUT YOU AND HINATA-CHAN SAID THAT I SHOULD ASK YOU! HINATA-CHAN SAID SHE'S KNOWN YOU FOREVER AND THAT I CAN'T TELL ANYONE BECAUSE IT'S A SECRET, BUT HANABI-CHAN SAID YOU WERE THE SAME PERSON! ARE YOU? THEN WHY DID YOU LEAVE? DOES THAT MEAN SHINORI-CHAN IS MY REPLACEMENT? I HEARD YOU HAVE A NEW TOUSAN CALLED JIRAIYA? DOES THAT MEAN YOU'RE A MISSING NINJA? CAN WE STILL BE FAMILY PLEASE I DON'T CARE IF YOU ARE A MISSING NINJA! I DON'T WANT TO BE REPLACED, I KNOW SHINORI CAN SHOOT LAVE BUT I CAN LEARN THAT REALLY OR I CAN LEARN THAT CORAL THING YOU KNOW REALLY! JUST WATCH WHEN YOU VISIT I'LL BE ABLE TO DO ALL SORTS OF STUFF! WHEN ARE YOU COMING TO KONOHA? ARE YOU GOING TO STAY? IF I KEEP IT A SECRET WILL YOU STAY LONGER? I CAN KEEP IT REALLY, I WON'T TELL ANYONE, AND HINATA-CHAN WILL TELL YOU! And on and on it went line after line of the sporadic kind of thought that only a child's mind could create. As Haku's eyes traveled to the very bottom she found a small message from Hinata explaining what had happened clearing than Menma's own excited attempts, as well as offering an apology for her part in all of this. As she reached the end Haku looked back to Naruto who still looked more than a little lost as what exactly he was supposed to do with this information.
"Well…that's quite a letter." Breathed Haku looked over to Naruto who numbly nodded at her words before glancing around to her.
"But, I mean, what do I do now that he knows? If he doesn't keep this quite then Tousan…everything might…I mean what do I do?" asked the blond as Haku looked around to the campfire where she was the Mizukage talking to one of the hunter shinobi. After a moment Haku seemed to come to a decision as with a small smile she pulled out a blank scroll from her pouch and offering it to the blond.
"I would say you should take a breath, and then write your ototo back Naruto-kun." Replied Haku as Naruto looked dumbly down at the scroll in her outstretched hand. Blinking up at her Naruto felt his mind slowly slogging back into motion.
"I…right…ok but, I mean what I can say to him? And what if it gets out to soon?" asked Naruto as Haku smiled softly pushing the scroll into the boys hands her own cooler figure closing around his own drawing his eyes up into her own.
"I think that Hinata has it covered for now, and we all knew that things couldn't stay quite forever with us growing closer to Konoha. I'll tell Mizu-sama, she knew this could happen when she allowed you to have the scroll. So just for now why don't you try and reconnect a little with him. At least before he starts trying to really spit lava to impress you." Added Haku smiling softly as Naruto found his own lips twitching up into a smile.
"Thanks' Haku-chan, sorry I guess I went a little screwy there for a moment." Replied Naruto as Haku let out a small giggle as she let her hands fall her side as she looked over at the boy.
"Hai, but that's ok." replied the girl as Naruto felt his heart throb slightly at her gentle voice, causing him to look around at the silhouette backlit by the campfire.
"Um…hey Haku-chan would you mind helping me… I mean you help Kaasan with letters all the time and…" began Naruto before Haku leaned her head to one side so that her face was lite by the firelight as she raised a hand to gently shush him smiling as she did so.
"I'd be happy to Naruto-kun. Now let's try and figures out just what this ototo of yours is saying." smiled Haku softly as Naruto nodded looking back to the letter as Haku let out a small breath trying to keep her breath stead, even as her hear beat a million miles an hour.
Breathe! Calm down and breathe…gah! Zabuza-sama why didn't you every tell me how to handle this! Thought the girl privately fighting off a blush that thankfully had been covered by the firelight. Before her thoughts could go further Naruto's face turned back around as her face snapped back into a warm smile as the two starting to decipher the child's words each chuckling as they pointed different points out to one another. Beyond them the rest of Kiri watched Mei smiling happily over to Nagato who nodded himself even as he kept a hand firmly slapped over Yahiko's mouth to keep the man from calling towards the two teens.
-Flashback End-
"Fair enough I suppose, or are you just enjoying having your little Yuki curled up with you as you tell each other stories, having those quite moments with each other in those warm sleeping bags doing…." Spoke Isobu be he was cut off by Naruto his face blushing heavily as he tried to shake the images of what Isobu was implying from his mind.
No no bad Naruto bad thoughts! Tousan was not right you are not a pervert! I am not like uncle Yahiko! Shouted the blond within his head as in the real world he set about bandaging his face in both an attempt to dawn his disguise, and to cover up the red now adorning his cheeks.
"Good morning Naruto-kun." Called a gentle voice from behind him as Naruto turned to see Haku, her black hair absent her usual knot, falling gently over her kimono as she smiled at the blond.
"Oh I, Good morning Haku-chan." Replied Naruto through his unfinished wrappings drawing a giggle to the girl's lips as she stepped forwards her hands reaching out to take the ends of the bandage from his hands.
"Here let me help," whispered Haku as Naruto felt her soft hands touch upon his cheeks as she wound the cloth into place.
"Ha..hai, thanks Haku-chan." Replied Naruto as Haku gave him a small nod before concentrating on her work. After a moment the black haired girl finished her work stepping back to nod towards Naruto just as a small ray of sunlight peaked over a tree so that her smile seemed to shine like a diamond before him. At this view Naruto felt his heart once more throb, something he admittedly was becoming more accustomed to as he spent time with Haku. As if sensing his thoughts Haku smiled as she turned moving over to sit herself by where the fire had been her back to Naruto as she reached her hand behind her slowly drawing her long black hair into a single strip.
"Naruto-kun could you help me." asked Haku innocently as Naruto blinked over to her feeling his body moving before his mind had even begun to process her words.
"Oh sure Haku-chan." Replied Naruto as he stepped forwards. As he stepped behind her Haku let her own hand fall back as Nartuo's took their play laying gently against her hair as he carefully moved the silken blackness into the girl's usual bun. What Naruto couldn't know as he worked Haku's hair into place was that her own face was adorned by its own blush as she saw the Mizukage give her an approving smile as she flicked her own hair out behind her.
Mizu-sama, was right, he was happy to help, no no Haku don't blush remember what Mizu-sama said, be assertive, and firm, bu…but how do I do that? And I've had so much fun with him and these past two days working alone together, it almost like we're…. continued Haku's mind only for her to blush all the more as certain thoughts entered into it as she fought to keep from shaking her head as Naruto continued to work on her hair.
Meanwhile across the gap Mei gave another smile as she saw her son and Haku.
"You know I'm not sure you aren't enjoying this more than they are." Chuckled Nagato as he stepped up beside Mei his rippled eyes turning to meet her emerald ones as she gave him a warm smile.
"Oh, is it that obvious." Smiled Mei as Nagato sigh shaking his head at her.
"And here sensei was worried about being the perverted on in the relationship." Chuckled Nagato to himself as Mei's face turned into one of her more dangerous smiles.
"What was that Uzumaki-san?" asked Mei innocently as Nagato gave her a small look before shaking his head as he stepped over to gather up his head.
"Nothing o wise and beautiful Mizu-sama who my sensei was lucky to ever have grace him with her love." Called back Nagato as Mei let out a small huff before looking back to where her son and Haku were turning to greet Suigetsu and Chojuro.
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Before long the Kiri forces found themselves upon an earthen trail that twisted its way through rows of trees towards the walled city of Konoha. As the group made their way forwards every now and then Nagato would turn nodding towards where a hidden group of Konoha guards were causing the rest of the group to chuckle as they imagined the guards silently panicking and trying to figure out how they had been found out. However, before long the fun was put on hold as the great walls and red doors of Konoha came into view.
"Well those are impressive." Chuckled Yahiko as he cracked his shoulders as he rolled his blackened cloak where the massive rolled explosive blade was, smiling over to Nagato who nodded slightly.
"Hai, sensei wasn't exaggerating when he told us about those. Wonder if the city lives up to the rest of his stories." Replied the redhead as the wind caught his own cloak blowing it around him so that the sun could fall upon his black and grey Kiri uniform. Meanwhilebehind them Haku noticed Naruto looking a little longingly towards the home he had left so long ago.
"Do you miss it?" asked Haku quietly as Naruto tore his eyes away from the village offering small smile to her as he shook his head.
"Not really, it was just home for a while….even if it wasn't the best you know." Replied Naruto as Haku nodded, knowing privately what it was like to leave a home with unhappy memories behind. As she looked back Haku pulled a smooth hunters mask from her pack.
"Well, if you will excuse me Naruto-san our Mizukage will need her guards." Spoke Haku adopting a slightly more mature tone that caused Naruto to smile at as he gave her a knowing nod.
"Alright Hunter-san, I wouldn't want to get in the way of such important work." Replied Naruto amusingly as he looked back ahead. As his eyes turned forwards, however, he felt a hand slip one of the bandages away from his cheek just long enough for a pair of cool lips to peck at him. As Naruto turned he saw Haku slipping below her mask a winking smile leaving him blushing as she stepped forwards to join her fellows around Mei.
"Man, you get all the luck. Maybe if you asked Haku-chan will protect you to from all the big bad shinobi." Chuckled Suigetsu as he stepped up smacking Naruto lightly on the shoulder as he gave a shark smile to their other teammate who sighed at his words.
"Come on Suigetsu." Chojuro tried to say only for the white haired boy to brush him off again as he leaned forwards his arm draping lazily over Naruto's shoulder.
"Oh come on, and Naruto nice new clothing, did Haku-chan pick them out for you." Smiled Suigetsu padding the simple grey sleeveless vest that Naruto wore in place of the usually chunnin one he previously wore. In fact all three of the official genin had done away with their vests. Suigetsu had returned to his purple shirt and grey pants, secured by wrappings at his shins, and decorated by his usually belt of water bottles. Beside him Chojuro was sporting his usual thick turtleneck and baggy camouflage pants. Meanwhile Naruto remained in a simple grey sleeveless vest that Haku had helped to pick out for him his arms bare say for the wrappings adorning one side, while his usual black pants with their kunai pouches remained in place.
"I mean next she'll let you pick out her clothing, maybe something a little more…" started Suigetsu only to be cut off as his head exploded into a small splash of water cutesy of Naruto's back handed fist. At the impact the teen's body slipped back a few steps before the water around his neck began to churn and slowly reform the usual white hair and serrated grin.
"Oh I hit a nerve." Chuckled Suigetsu as his face came back into being. However, before he could continue a hand landed on his shoulder causing his whole body to stiffen as a familiar voice spoke up.
"Now Suigetsu what did I teach you about fighting your teammates. I don't need to have you go back through basic training again do I?" asked the dangerously calm voice of Nagato as the white haired boy turned to meet his ripple patterned eyes.
"Um..oh course not sensei." Managed Suigetsu letting out an audible gulp as the Uzumaki nodded to him once before turning his attention forwards once again.
"Good, because as my students I expect to see you in the finals, if not then I might have to make your genin positions permanent." Finished the redhead as Suigetsu paled, even as Naruto and Chojuro shot each other small smirks. During their time under Nagato the redhead had always had fun in messing with their watery companions head, so much so it was practically a pastime among them. As the genin moved back into position before their sensei, and Mei and her guards move ahead of them they noticed a small gathering forming at the village gates ahead of them.
"Mizu-sama." Whispered one of the two hunter shinobi as he nodded his mask towards the slowly gathering group even as his hand twitched towards the hilt of his blade. However before he could respond Mei turned to Nagato who spoke up his eyes trained upon the group he could make out clear as day despite the distance.
"There is no need for concern. It seems the Hokage is merely here to greet us. From his companions it would seem a few clan heads are also present." Spoke the redhead as Mei nodded speaking softly to address the group around her.
"Everyone stay calm, this is simply a formality, do not act unless ordered. Do I make myself clear?" finished Mei. As one the Kiri forces around her nodded focusing back ahead as they saw the figures coming into more definition.
"Naruto do you recognize any of them?" whispered Chojuro a bit nervously as the blond turned his eyes across the crowd, stopping at a few points before nodding.
"Hai, besides the Hokage, there are members of what looks like the Hyuuga, Inuzuka, and Aburame clans." Replied Naruto as behind him Yahiko let out a small snort.
"Don't suppose they might be here to see little old you after saving their heirs. Oh sensei would be so happy about how popular his little Uto is." Chuckled the man Naruto endured a few chuckles form the rest of the group even Mei unable to keep from giggling at the pokes made towards her son.
"Well at least he has given us a good first impression Yahiko, try and not ruin that will you." Spoke Mei even as Yahiko took on a wounded expression comically clutching at his chest.
"Mizu-sama I'm hurt." Replied the orange haired man as Nagato let out a small chuckle.
"Not as hurts as you will be if Konan hears you were misbehaving." Chuckle the redhead as his brother in all but blood turned to him a confident smile of his own.
"Maybe, but I'm still getting you that date while I'm here, now where should you take that Shizune, hum Naruto I'll need help with this one." called Yahiko as Nagato turned an annoyed expression to the orange haired man even as the rest of the group chuckle once more as they crossed the last few yards to reach the village gates.
At the same time the Kiri party had caught sight of the gates a group of Konoha forces had arrived as well a few turning to one another and beginning small conversation with one another as they watched the Kiri forces draw nearer. Among them the blond form of the Hokage and his wife were apparent as they stood along with a few of the clan heads.
"You know it wasn't necessary for you to welcome our guests." Chuckled Minato looking around to where a feral looking woman with red fangs adorning her cheeks was smirking with her arms folded across the green kunoichi vest she wore.
"Oh relax Hokage-san, besides I want to meet this Uto I heard about. Kiba didn't stop about his new rival, and how he needed to meet the turtle too." Replied the feral woman as she tossed her brown hair back as beside her a man almost completely covered by a long green trench coat let out a small sigh from behind his sun glasses.
"I must agree with Tsume-san. My son was very impressed by the boy, and if Kiri is to be a future ally I see it as only logical to meet with them and show gratitude where it is owed." Finished the man as Minato felt a small smile touch his lips.
"Well Shibi I have to say your attitude very welcome. I thought the other clans were going to riot when I suggested the idea." Replied Minato as another of the group sighed nodded his head gravely.
"True Hokage-sama, but the battles with Kira over the years were not as damaging to our clans as others. I would likely be the same should you have suggested a treaty with Kumo." Replied a stoic man his pale eyes turning towards the Hokage. In turn Minato looked to the man's noble dress sighing as he nodded at the man's words.
"Hai Hiashi I do understand, however living in the past will only bread another war. This is a chance for a peace that was just a dream a few years ago, and I'm not willing to let past wounds prevent that." Replied Minato as beside him his wife let out a small sigh reaching up to yank at her husband's ear so that he flinched out of the serious tone he had been using a moment ago.
"Oh relax Minato-kun Hiashi was just being his usual cheerful self, now get ready they are almost here." Spoke Kushina as she turned to look down upon the three children she had brought with her. Standing directly to her right was Narumi, her blond hair pulled back in a ponytail that allowed her blue eyes to look out clearly through the short bands she wore. Her dress was similar to its usual style a battle kimono bright red and covered by a shorter blue jacket that allowed her arms to show where they sat folded across her chest as she watched the Kiri forces approach.
Beside her stood her twin Mito her own hair allowed to cascade back in a red curtain like her mothers, so that it fell across the matching yellow and green uniform she wore much like her sister. Just as on her sister her own forehead also bore a metal plate inscribed with the Konoha simple, and much like her sister she looked out at the approaching group with equal parts curiosity and just a touch of apprehension. Both sisters had been hearing about the Kiri Uzumaki for weeks now and after their own encounter they were more than a little worried at what was waiting for them. At the same time both had been warned by Kushina to behave themselves. The final member of the group, however was easily the most excited as he continued to rock back and forth practically vibrating as he turned his red head back and forth as the Kiri forces approached.
"Kaasan, hey Kaasan can Aunty Mei and Uncle Nagato stay with us, Uto-niisan can share my room if he wants, I don't mind? Can he please?" asked Menma excitedly as Kushina felt herself chuckling as across from her the other clan heads including Minato felt smiles touching their faces at the boys excitement. Bending down Kushina gently ruffled her son's hair before replying.
"Ok calm down Menma-kun. Remember they are here for the exams, I don't think they'll be staying with us the whole time, but I'm sure if you ask they may visit." Offered Kushina as the boy blinked up at her before nodding excitedly as he looked back to where the Kiri group was just coming into view. However, there was one in the group who watched the approaching group her eyes narrowed as they came into view.
I still don't like this Minato, there is something that doesn't sit right about these Kiri shinobi….I just hope I'm wrong about this…I don't want to see you get betrayed like I have. Mentally sighed a blond woman as she looked down at her god daughters, before allowing her gaze to shift back to where Minato stood.
"Lady Tsunade? Are you alright?" asked a concerned voice from beside the woman. As the blond turned towards the source of the voice her eyes fell upon her apprentice her black hair and kimono impeccable as usual, a look of slight concern upon her brown. Sighing to herself Tsunade drew in a calming breath as she looked back to her student.
"Hai Shizune, I'm alright. Just nerves I suppose." Replied Tsunade as her brown eyes shifted back to the approaching group. At least I hope so. Thought the woman just as the group covered the last few steps between their groups.
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At the same time the party of Kiri was about to meet with Konoha's welcoming party across the elemental nations found a familiar white haired figures scanning over a pile of scrolls laid out before him his eyes traveling now and then to one corner of the office where an older pair of toads sat looking over scrolls of their own. Giving the open scroll before him once final glance Jiraiya let out an audible sigh as he leant back in the chair usually occupied by his wife, his action drawing his toad companion's attention from their own work.
"What is it Jiraiya boy?" asked the first toad his white beard waving gently around the brown cloak he wore to cover his form, as beside him the purple toad, dressed much the same, nodded her head in agreement with the first question.
"Nothing Pa, just tried. We've been going over my reports for days now and still that one eyed bastard isn't slipping up. I've barely found anything on him, a few spies here and there but nothing else, and he doesn't play things small. Nothing is coming out of Konoha but supplies and that old crippled would sooner supply the enemy than open up a daycare it just doesn't make since." Sighed Jiraiya reaching up to scratch ideally at his white hair his frustration apparent as the toads nodded sadly at their summoner words.
"True Jiraiya boy, but if it were this easy he would not have been able to frame you at all. We just need to be patient, everyone slips up in time." Advised the toad as Jiraiya felt a small snort pass his lips.
"Isn't that the truth." The white haired man sighed glancing over to a blue and white scroll that was covered in small seals.
"Just look at my son, poor boys got himself in a love triangle and now he's even been found out by his little ototo. Maybe he would have been better if I didn't take him in the first place." Breathed Jiraiya as Ma gave a little huff. A moment later however, Jiraiya let out a small yelp of pain as a stick slammed into his head cutesy of the male toad as beside him his purple companion spoke up.
"The tadpole is find Jiraiya, and if he heard you say that he'd be the first to smack you over the head followed by your wife. Now stop this mopping and let's get back to it." Called the toad as Jiraiya felt himself smiling despite himself as he looked back to the pile of scrolls sent from his army of spies around the elemental nations.
"Right, thanks Ma, Pa." replied Jiraiya as both toads nodded moving back to start looking over the scrolls they had picked out of the pile. As the man turned back to begin his work anew a small puff of smoke drew his eyes around to one side of the desk where a new toad emerged snapping off a salute as the cloud dissipated around him.
"We found him Jiraiya we found the Snake!" called the toad excitedly as the three occupants of the room turned as one to the toad. Almost on reflex Jiraiya moved forwards to take the scroll held out to him by the toad his hands tearing it open as he began to scan the contents. Across the desk the older toads moved forwards each looking over as Jiraiya's eyes shot back and forth across the scroll. For a moment the room was silent till an audible crunch rang out as Jiraiya's hands close upon each end of the scroll his eyes narrowing as a faint thrum of chakra began to build around him.
"Jiraiya boy what is it?" asked Pa quickly as Jiraiya forced himself to stay calm drawing in calming breath one after another as he slowly lowered the mangled scroll to the desk.
"Hunter!" called Jiraiya ignoring the toad for the moment as a masked hunter shinobi shivered into being kneeling before Jiraiya as he did.
"Hai Jiraiya-sama." Came a curt female voice as Jiraiya picked up a scroll quickly scrawling a message across it before turning to the kneeling kunoichi.
"You are to send this message to all border patrols immediately, also gather a team to depart to reinforce the Mizu-kage's group. I will inform her of your arrival personally but be ready to leave in an hour." Ordered the man as he handed over the message the kunoichi nodding once before disappearing in a shiver of movement leaving Jiraiya alone once again.
"Jiraiya boy what is it?" asked Ma her toads voice quivering slightly as she looked up to Jiraiya his eyes hardened into a look of anger she had not seen for years. Forcing himself to breathe the man stayed motionless for several moments before at last turning to the toads his face set into one of grim determination.
"The message was from my informant in Rice. That new village that sprung up is his work; and they are participating in this year's Chunnin exams." Replied the man before reaching down to pull out a few scrolls that he had previously disregarded as irrelevant information about trade between Konoha and Rice slowly growing.
"And if so then that means that someone in Konoha has been supplying him, he's good but building something like this needs support, supplies and," paused Jiraiya as he pulled up a scroll showing a huge shipment out of Konoha just a few days ago, his eyes narrowing as the next words left his lips in a snarl. "And I think we know who. Konoha might be more of a hornets nest than we thought…and I just let my wife and son go there." Finished Jiraiya dangerously as the toads looked to the information seeing the trails of information that slowly fit together with this newest piece.
"But Jiraiya boy you don't think that they are in danger do you? That man may try attacking in the shadows but in the exams, with everyone present?" asked Pa as Jiraiya nodded gravely.
"Unless he used a pawn. My old teammate may be strong but he isn't hard to understand, all that one eyed bastard has to do is dangle some bate and that snake will jump at it." Replied Jiraiya, as the toads paused before nodded gravely as they looked up to the man.
"Ma, Pa, I can't risk going to Konoha now, but I need you to keep someone looking out for Mei, and Naruto, if anything happens anything at all have them summon me there immediately, I don't care if it's in Anbu headquarters." Finished Jiraiya as he set down to start on his message to his wife the pair of toads nodding stoically at his words.
"Alright Jiraiya boy, but what do you think the snake is planning?" asked Pa as Jiraiya glanced up from the scroll he was writing to grimace as he looked across at the piles of scrolls each now seeming a hidden message as to what his enemies plans could be.
"I don't know Pa…but if I had to guess….I say the bastards are going to war." Replied Jiraiya firmly as the toads hardened their gaze before both vanished into clouds of smoke leaving the man alone to try and unravel the web that would let him see what was being played out around him.
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At the same time Jiraiya was coming to his grim conclusions across the continent a meet was just beginning as the representative of Kiri found themselves standing before the gates of Konoha eyes trained upon the welcoming group before them. The two groups eyed one another for a few moments, a tension apparent between the two despite the welcoming nature that each wished to present, it seemed that despite everything, old enemies did not always find themselves as welcome in each other's presence. After a moment of silence between the two sides Mei stepped past her guards a confident smile upon her lips as her eyes traveled across the onlookers till she settled on one particular set that was still refusing to stay still.
"Hello again Menma-kun, Shinore-chan told me to tell you she'd be here in a month. She seems to think you might not be training enough." Smiled Mei as she looked down to the Hokage's youngest the little redhead smiling happily at the woman's words as he called back excitedly unable to keep quiet for another second.
"No way I've been training hard, just wait I'll show her when she gets here!" called Menma excitedly as Mei along with most of the Kiri group let out a few chuckles at the boy's enthusiasm.
"Well Good cause Yoake is going to be here too, and he doesn't want to get left behind again." Called Yahiko peaking around Mei to give a wide grin that Menma returned even as the tensions between the groups broke as most found themselves smirking at the boy's enthusiasm.
"Well Mizu-sama, I am glad you see you have safely arrived. May I present my daughters Narumi and Mito, as well as the heads of the Hyuuga, Inuzuka, and Aburame clans." Smiled Minato raising a hand towards where his daughters as well as those head of clans stood Mei nodding towards each as she motioned for her own group to step forwards.
"Thank you Hokage-sama, may I introduce them to the head of the Uzumaki clan Nagato, as well as sensei to our team for the chunnin exams." Replied Mei as the rippled eyed Nagato stepped forwards along with Naruto, Chojuro and Suigetsu in turn. As the Kiri group stepped forwards everyone's eyes traveled first to Nagato taking in not only the fiery red hair but his rippled eyed in turn before looking down to the three genin a few pausing as they reached Naruto who was eye smiling over towards Menma who was waving happily towards him, as above him the twin sisters looked on at the boy that they had been hearing about for the past few weeks.
"So this is the Uto I've hear so much about?" asked Tsume glancing over to Naruto who moved his eyes from his otouto's smiling face to where the head of the Inuzuka clan was looking over at him taking in her posture and ton before offering her a small bow.
"Hai, Inuzuka-san, it is a pleasure." Replied Naruto as the woman gave a small fanged smirk at his reply.
"Oh powerful and manners, nice to know Kiba chose a good rival. Too bad he and his team are out on a mission or I'd like to see you to have a match." Chuckled the woman as Naruto chuckled a smile of his own visible through the wrappings adorning his mouth as he privately thanked Jiraiya for hammering it into him how to read people.
"So we're rivals, well I'll try not to disappoint, if his skill against those Kumo guys was anything to go by I'm sure in for it." Chuckled Naruto getting an approving nod from Tsume as Naruto's gaze shifted to the other two clan heads.
"And you must be Shino-san, and Hinata-san's parents, I must say they do your clans proud in both skill and decorum." Nodded Naruto his words catching the pair off guard slightly before the mostly covered Shibi bowed his head slightly in thanks.
"Your words are appreciated Uzumaki-san, my son tells me of your efforts for them. It is appreciated. I must also praise you for your cohabitation, it is a trait our clan holds in high regard." Finished the stoic figure as Naruto bowed his head slightly in thanks.
"Thank you Aburame-san; and just like you your son is a fine shinobi, I can see where he gets his training. I look forwards to seeing more of his skills." Replied Naruto as he turned to the final clan head who had not taken his eyes from Naruto since he had stepped forwards.
"The same of course extends to your daughter Hyuga-sama, she is a fine Kunoichi." Complemented Naruto as Hiashi's face remained a stoic mask before he finally nodded slightly towards the boy.
"I thank you Uzumaki-san for your efforts in protecting my clan." Replied the man as Naruto gave a small shrug in reply noticing how the man responded to his complement by shifting it upon himself.
I wasn't praising you alone moron….oh well guess he's still a stoic jackass Thought Naruto as inside his mind a watery chuckle greeted his words. Even as Naruto was addressing the clan heads Minato had stepped forwards to address Mei the pair falling into a polite discussion as Nagato found himself being introduced to Narumi and Mito in turn.
"Nagato-san these are my daughters Narumi and Mito Uzumaki Namikaze. Girls this is Nagato Uzumaki, the head of the Uzumaki clan of Kiri." Spoke Kushina smiling over to the red-haired man as he looked between the two girls each looking back even as within their seals the Kyuubi sat dumbfounded at what he was looking at.
"Nice to meet you Nagato-san/Nice to meet you Nagato-san." Both girls spoke as Kushina nodded in approval at their behavior.
"It is nice to meet you as well Narumi-san, Mito-san, it is nice to see a new generation of Uzumaki alive and well. I have heard you will both be participating in the Chunnin exams, is that right?" asked Nagato looking between the two, his mind attempting to ignore the nagging annoyance it felt at smiling towards the two who had insulted his students. Still he supposed that if Naruto could stomach the act, then he should be able to do this much. At his words both girls nodded Naruko even raising an arm, her other coming around to slap an open palm against her bicep.
"Oh yeah, just watch and we'll show you what Konoha Uzumaki's can do!" called Narumi excitedly as beside her Mito let out a small sigh but nodding in agreement with her sisters words none the less.
"Hai, we hope to perform well in the upcoming exams. From what we have seen your team we be tough to overcome." Added Mito as Nagato turned between the two nodding slightly.
"Well you certainly don't lack confidence, I look forwards to seeing your compete in the exams." Replied the man before he was cut off by a tug at his cloak drawing his eyes down to see the blue eyes of Menma looking back at him above a wide smile.
"Uncle Nagato can you stay with us, please, Uto-san can share my room and you can…" started the excited boy before a golden chain slowly lowered to wrap around his mouth cutting him off as above her children Kushina let out a small sigh.
"Sorry about that, ever since he woke up today he's been going on about seeing you and Uto." Spoke Kushina in an apologetic tone that Nagato shook it head at.
"It is quite alright Kushina-san, I'm sure we'll visit while we are here. After all who am I to not give my nephew some attention, and I know for a fact that Uto has been looking forwards to see you again." Replied Nagato his last words directed towards the boy who looked up excitedly as he turned, golden chain still in place, to see where Naruto was speaking Tsume apparently roaring with laughter at something he had said and smacking Shibi on the back hard enough to send his glasses to the dirt below.
"Hey Nagato look who I found!" called an excited voice as the redhead along with the children and Kushina turned to see Yahiko grinning from ear to ear as he gestured towards a pair of women who had been standing a few feet away.
"Its Lady Shizune and the old lady!" called the orange haired man happily even as the group saw Shizune practically tackling her mentor to keep her from pouncing on Yahiko.
"We better get moving before she gets free." Chuckled Kushina turning to see Nagato looking just as embarrassed as her the two spotting Minato and Mei a few feet away as they stepped back from the clan heads and towards them.
"Well Mizu-sama if you are ready allow me to escort you and your team to your lodging." Spoke Minato drawing a small nod from the Kiri forces as the procession turned to begin making its way into the village. The procession moved slowly forwards through the packed streets drawing more than a few eyes as they did so. As the group marched into the city small conversation continued between a few of the group even as others simply waked in silence.
"So you're really the head of the Uzumaki clan?" asked Narumi looking up to where Nagato was walking his rippled eyes moving down to her.
"Hai, that is correct." Replied Nagato as Narumi looked him up and down, as beside her Mito let out a small sigh.
"Sorry about her, Menma's been telling so many stories about you since his visit I guess my sister expected you to look like something out of an old fairy tale." Chuckled Mito as Narumi shot her sister an annoyed look. Nagato in the meantime could not help but smile faintly at their words as he looked over to the blonde girl.
"Well sorry to disappoint I suppose." replied Nagato as he looked around his rippled eyes passing over the group till they settled upon a heart shaped face that held a pair of black eyes. Eyes that meet his own for a moment before moving away as Shizune turned to focus back on her sensei who was still muttering about getting ahold of a particular orange haired man. Before the redhead to even consider the meaning of this he felt the familiar weight of an arm as Yahiko slung it around his shoulders.
"Well Nagato, aren't you going to say hello to her? If you need my…" started Yahiko only to be cut off as a small invisible force smacked him upside the head drawing a small sound of pain to his lips.
"Ouch, ok fine, fine but really if you need me." smiled the man as he stepped into place beside Nagato his eyes dropping to where Narumi and Mito where looking at him curiously. In reply Yahiko threw up a hand in greeting smiling widely as he did so.
"Hello, so you're Menma's Niisans hu, I heard about you from him when he was visiting." Offered the man as both nodded slightly.
"Um..who are you?" asked the redhead Mito as Yahiko turned to her before raising a figure to point to himself.
"What? Oh come on he had to have mentioned me?" asked the man as both girls looked to one another before shaking their heads.
"Nope, he talked about a lady named Konan, the Mizukage's, Uto…a lot about Uto, Nagato and a few kids." Listed off Narumi ticking the names off on her figures as she went. As she finished both girls watched as Yahiko's shoulders slumped his face looking stricken at the news. For a few moments it even looked as though a small rain cloud had formed around his head a since of sadness practically dripping off of him as the three Uzumaki's looked to him.
"Um…sorry." Offered Narumi as Nagato let out a small sigh.
"Don't mind him, just his ego, he'll live." Replied Nagato as he looked back ahead just in time to spot another glimpse of Shizune before it vanished once more.
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Before too long the Kiri forces had been show to their residence Mei departing to have a proper meeting with Minato most of her personal guard in tow. At the same time Suigetsu as well as Chojuro were relaxing, or what passed for it with the white haired boy sharpening his blade, caressing it like a lover as his fellow simply sat by the window looking out over the town, his black eyes darting from shadowed alleyway to rooftop where he could feel the masked eyes of the Anbu upon them. Guards he assumed, and was correct to do so. Meanwhile down in the streets Naruto was pacing along having taken a moment to simply stroll his once home, his sapphire eyes trailing back and forth over the shops and stalls he remembered from childhood, a small smile on his lips as he saw them.
"So how long are you going to pretend he isn't following you?" asked Isobu calmly in his deep watery voice as Naruto gave a small chuckle continuing to walk down the street as behind him a red haired Menma dashed from cover to cover attempting to follow after Naruto after having escaped his mother as she had wanted the sisters to get a chance to meet Nagato properly.
Oh I'll let him keep on my tail for a bit longer, after all can't spoil his fun, he really has been working hard on his training, not good to find him to easily. Smiled Naruto beneath his bandages as Isobu gave a wet laugh.
"Haha, reminds me of how we use to tell brother Goku that his crown was stylish, ah the lies we tell." Chuckled the turtle as the pair made their way into the park. Spying his prey getting away Menma speed out from behind a food cart a broad smiling on his lips as she took off after the pair, dodging a few venders as he leapt into a bush at the edge of the park.
"Right, Uto-niisan didn't see me, I knew my training paid off, now I can show him how great I am, then he'll want to stay with us, and I'll get to…" started Menma his excited little mind going on one of those tangents that only the young can pull of so well. Shifting forwards the boy spread the leaves before him aside to peer out trying to spot the blond boy, but seeing only a few villagers strolling about.
"Hu? Where did he go?" whispered Menma worriedly as he glanced back and forth a few times afraid he had lost his brother before even getting a chance to really spend time with him. Just then there was a small sigh from behind him as a hand came forwards to rest its bandaged self upon his shoulder.
"Not bad ototo, you've been working hard." Spoke Naruto in a warm voice as he saw the boy stiffen for a moment before with a blur of red Naruto was flat on his back with Menma on top of him, the boys arms wrapped around him as he beamed up at him.
"Niisan!" called Menma all but crying as he rubbed his face against the older boys grey clad chest holding him as if afraid that he might vanish if he let go for even a moment. Blinking down Naruto couldn't help but smiled as he lowered a hand down to gently tussle the boys red locks his other moving down to hold the boy to him letting out a hushing sound as he did.
"Shhhh it's alright Menma, I'm sorry I didn't tell you before." Breathed Naruto surprise to find his own eyes a bit moist as being able to speak to his brother as more than some distant relative. At his words Menma simply held Naruto tighter nodding into his chest as from the bush a few small sniffs escaped for a time. After a while the pair had quieted, and could be seen stepping free of the bush Naruto playfully tussling the boys hair freeing it of a few leaves as Menma swatted at his hand, as most children do when being treated their age.
"Hey cut it out Niisan I'm not a little kid." Pouted Menma as Naruto gave him a warm smile from behind his bandages, which managed to light up his eyes as he gave a little chuckle.
"Hahah, alright ototo, alright." Chuckled Naruto as he began to walk down the path beside his brother noting a few eyes that watched them from the shadows. Well of course the Anbu would be watching him, as long as he was with the hokage's son. Still Naruto had expected this, and after the stories he'd asked Menma to start telling most would be well aware of Menma's "Niisan" from Kiri, and at least treating him as such wouldn't draw any undue attention. At least not as long as the pair didn't let anything to specific slip out.
"Hey Niisan can you show me some of those techniques you talked about, pleaseeeeee, I won't use them on the other kids really I promise!" called Menma giving a wide eye hopeful stare up at the blond who couldn't help but think of when Yahiko did the same to Konan whenever he was in trouble.
"Oh I don't see why not." Smiled Naruto patting Menma on the back as the pair set off into the park proper. Soon enough the pair were within a small clearing Naruto easily forming a water clone that he used to show Menma a few simple taijutsu stances, happy to see the boy smiling, or cheering as Naruto spoke to him, spent time with him. And when Naruto lifted him up onto his shoulder after an hour of training, holding him on his shoulders, it was as if the brothers had never been parted. The letter had told the stories that both needed to hear, the words, but this, this did so much more, the simple act of being together gave them the warmth that only family can give. As the pair of Uzumaki's walked off into the town Menma laughing happily and cheering about how much he'd learned Naruto felt the same love he held for Shinore. It hadn't been much, but it was a start, a start in getting to know his brother.
Still one thing he didn't need to learn was where Menma wanted to go for a snack after their little training, a twin cheer for the holy food that was ramen rising into the air as more than a few turned around to look at the pair as the marched off deeper into the town.
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Meanwhile as the Uzumaki clan was on the move within the hokage's office Mei was accepting a cup of tea from Minato as her guards stood sentinel around her glancing now and then towards the Anbu, who did the same in return. Across from her Minato poured a cup of the hot liquid for himself raising it to his lips as he turned sapphire eyes across to Mei, taking in her lushes' frame, and wondering what deity had cursed him with the love of redheads. A love that for a moment turned its eyes upon the woman before him before it was dragged off to be throttled by the chibi version of Kushina that lived his minds since he had said "I do." Winching a bit as that part of his mind suffered a fate far cruller than even Ibiki could conceive Minto cleared his throat a bit setting his hands before him interlocked as he prepared to move on from the official business of papers and treaties to what, to him, was the main issue he would be forced to address with Mei.
"I thank you again Mei-san for accepting our offer, I hope that your stay will be as welcoming as your own was for my family." smiled Minato warmly as across from him Mei's ruby red lips turned up in a grateful smile.
"Thank you Minato-san, I'm sure it will be, though maybe we can do without the assassination attempt." She added smirking a bit as Minato let out a small chuckle nodding at her words.
"Hai, I think that would be best. Now that the paper work is finished there is a final issue I'd like to discuss with you." He sighed padding a thick stack of files on his desk glaring at them for a moment in a way that caused Haku, from her place behind Mei, to stifle a giggle, she'd scene that look on the Mizu kage enough to know that paperwork was a universal enemy that could unite all the kage's if they ever realized it. At his words Mei cocked an eyebrow up her emerald eyes flashing a bit as a paper thin smile crossed her lips.
"Well Minato-san, if it is about setting up a play date between Menma and Shinore I think such things will take care of themselves." Chuckled Mei the rich sound of her laughter fooling a few of the Anbu who didn't notice that the smile she now wore did not reach her eyes. Minato did notice. And he knew that her words were a hint to leave unpleasant matter aside for now, if he wanted things to continue to be pleasant as they had been.
But, Minato couldn't leave it, no more that Mei could have done, as a Kage their duty was held above all save their family….and this issue was a bit of both. Shaking his head Minato gave a small sigh knowing that what followed would be an unpleasant affair.
"No, no I'm afraid not Mei-san, our children can likely see to their own fun. What I must ask you is what you really know about the missing shinobi Jiraiya." breathed Mito his tone flat, as she looked across to her. Mei didn't flinch at the question only giving the blond another of her paper thin smiles as she moved to cross her arms below her bosom fixing Minto with that one visible emerald eye.
"I see, and you feel our answer before was untruthful Hokage-san." Replied Mei coolly, though the lack of his name told both the Anbu and hunter shinobi that the pleasantries could be approaching their end. At her tone Minato let out a heavy sigh thinking how to reply to her as he leaned back a bit in his chair glancing around to the photo he kept on his desk…the last photo that showed the family he had let slip away, a blond boys' face smiling up at him as he turned back to Mei, his resolve in place.
"I feel you may know more than you wanted to tell an unallied hokage. I hope that as our alliance is solidified you can be more honest with us. When that man left our village he took my son, I simply want to find them. So I'm asking you now where is Jiraiya?" Replied Minato calmly as Mei watched him for a moment a small smile toucher the corners of her lips as she let out a sigh slowly pushing herself up from the table.
"I see," replied Mei as she rose to look down still smiling one Minato, before turning her gaze slowly to Tsunade so that it was clear her words were being directed to both of them. "Well I can honestly say that I do not know where Jiraiya is at this time, though I can tell you this Hokage-san, and you Tsunade-san. If either of you honestly believe that a man like Jiraiya is capable of treachery on any level, must less taking an unwilling child, then it seems I've sadly made a treaty with a village of fools." She smiled seeing Tsunade's face contorting in a look of rage as Minato himself looked rather shocked at Mei's words, though they were far from finished.
"Still one can't choose their family now can they, I'm sure I'll see you both at dinner. Shall we put on a happy smile for their sakes?" She smiled turning to walk out of the office letting her words hang in the air as her shinobi closed in around her eyeing the other members of the office as they passed out of the office doors leaving Tsunade and Minato looking after her retreating form. Turning to Minato as Mei left Tsunade uttered a small curse as she punched the wall beside her sending cracks along it.
"Damn it, she's taunting us!" growled the woman as Minto looked to her, his eyes calm as he let out a tired sigh sitting back in his chair turning to look out the office window down at the village below. Shaking his head at her words Minato let out a tried sigh as if annoyed with his sensei. It would be pointless to argue with her, he could not more force her to let go of her rage against her teammate than to force Mei to tell him what she knew. And to try would likely cost his family more than his actions already had. No…for now at least Mei was right, he would smile for his family….he owed them that much.
Hello all….well yeah sorry for the huge wait :P I really don't have a good reason aside from the long summer. Between class, family and a few other things I'm sorry to say I'm working at a snail's pace on the stories. Still I do not intend to flat out stop the story, or any of them really. I just needed a break from it all for a while. Hope you enjoyed the chapter, even though it was a long time coming, see you all around.