Chapter 10: Mist Village (Part I)

It was early morning, 6 o'clock to be exact, and it was the departure day for the Hokage and her party along with the Kazekage and his party. The meeting would be held tomorrow in the Mist village. Tsunade, still in her pajamas, was looking outside the window in her bedroom, in her 2 story house near the Hokage monument. A memento of her grandfather, passed down to her parents, and now to her. She watched the village from her window. She could see Lee and Gai doing their daily laps around the village. She laughed to herself; those two didn't come any weirder.

The Hokage was thinking about the information that Kakashi gave her yesterday. She couldn't stop thinking that there was a possibility that her son, Senzairu, was still alive. On top of trying to get Naruto to stay in the village, the nagging council, this upcoming meeting in Mist, and possibly the return of her son, Tsunade was getting a little stressed. She walked away from the window to go and prepare for the day ahead.

After 20 minutes of preparation, which included showering and getting dressed, Tsunade walked into the kitchen to see Shizune making breakfast, "Hello Tsunade-sama, I thought you would be hungry so I took the liberty of making you something to eat."

Tsunade pulled out a chair and sat, "This looks good Shizune, but you didn't have to go through the trouble of fixing me anything you know."

Shizune brought Tsunade her plate then took a seat right next to hers, "It's the least I can do; after all, you have been working really hard lately."

Tsunade swallowed her food before speaking, "Yes, I really have been working hard but that's not why you made me this breakfast. Shizune, I'm not upset ok. You don't have to try and cheer me up ok."

Shizune met Tsunade's eyes, "I'm sorry Tsunade-sama. However, you can't deny with all of the recent events that you don't deserve something nice."

"I guess you're right. Anyway, thanks for breakfast. I must be heading to the tower; I also have to do a few things before I leave. Also, have Naruto come to my office immediately. I need to talk to him." Tsunade ordered the younger girl.

"Yes Tsunade-sama, I will do that." Shizune went to clean the dishes.

Hokage Office 10 mins…

Tsunade entered her office to see Jiraiya sitting on the couch. "I haven't seen you for a couple of days, where have you been?" Tsunade asked while walking to her desk to take a seat.

Jiraiya watched her as she sat, "I actually went to Sea Country to see Ryuho. I'm back now and I think it's time we tell Naruto."

"You sure you want to tell him now? I don't know if it's a good idea Jiraiya. I mean, he deserves to know but at the same time the timing isn't right. Besides I called him here to inform him that he and his guest will be staying with me for the remainder of his stay." Tsunade informed her former teammate.

"You gave up on convincing him to rejoin the village?" Jiraiya asked.

"No, I haven't given up but let's face it; you and I both know that Naruto staying in this village is a long shot. After we reveal his lineage to him he's going to hate this village even more. I don't blame him if he does either." Tsunade stated in a voice tinged with anger thinking about the villagers' treatment of Naruto.

Jiraiya spoke, "I see you noticed the dirty looks that Mai and Yumi have received."

Tsunade gave a slight nod, "Even though I have tons of paper work, it doesn't mean that I'm blind. Yes I have seen the looks that some villagers and even some of my own ninjas have given them. I figure that someone will try something while Naruto is away. They won't try anything while Mai and Yumi are at the Hokage's house. I will also have one of the Shinobi that doesn't hate Naruto for being the Kyuubi container to protect Yumi and Mai."

"That's a good idea. I was trying to think of something but that is perfect." Jiraiya said/

A young Chuunin walked in the office, "Tsunade-sama, Naruto is here like you asked."

"Send him in" The Chuunin stepped aside to let Naruto in.

"Tell me obaa-chan, what was so important that you couldn't wait to tell me later?" Naruto was obviously irate at being in the Hokage's office this early.

Tsunade looked at Naruto and motioned for him to sit down. "Naruto, we have something to tell you."

Jiraiya got up off of the couch and walked over to Naruto. He dug his hand in the inner part of his jacket and handed Naruto a letter. "Naruto, this letter should tell you everything. Before you read this letter, please understand that this was done for your own protection."

Naruto eyed Jiraiya suspiciously. He looked at the letter that Jiraiya handed to him. He glanced at Tsunade, and then back to Jiraiya, "So, what is this about?"

"Naruto, please just read the letter ok."

Naruto looked at Tsunade and did what she told him to do. He opened the letter and began to read

Dear Naruto,

If you're reading this then it means that I'm dead. It also means that you are old enough and strong enough to take care of yourself, which makes me proud. I'm sorry that I couldn't be there for you, but life is like that sometimes you know. I think I'm rambling, but what do you say to a son that you will never watch grow and that you can never be there to protect? I guess it doesn't matter anymore, you can now protect yourself and your loved ones I'm sure.

Sitting here writing this letter, it pains me because neither will I or your mother, whom just passed giving birth to you, will be there to watch you take your first steps, to go with on your first day to the academy, or congratulate you from graduating from the academy.

I know you're going to be a great ninja. You know your old man wasn't a slouch either, but I'm sure you will hear all about my accolades in the history books. One of my accomplishments will involve you greatly.

Naruto, what I'm about to do is something that I have to do. After I finish writing this letter, I will take you with me to the battlefield and seal the Kyuubi inside of you. Understand that I had to do this. As a Hokage, I couldn't ask anyone in my village to make a sacrifice that I wouldn't make myself. I sincerely hope that people will see you as a hero; however, I'm a realist and I'm a little bit skeptical about this happening. Naruto, hopefully people will do as I wish, but if they don't then I want you to be strong.

If you hate me for what I'm about to do then I understand. I just want you to know that there is no one that I would trust to harbor the power of the Kyuubi other than my son. Also, you need to know that your mother and I love you dearly. Don't be mad at Jiraiya, Sarutobi, and Kakashi for not telling you of your heritage. I told them not to tell you until you were ready. Jiraiya was ordered to give you the letter when you were ready for it, Sarutobi was to keep you secret and give you your mothers maiden name, and Kakashi…well you should see him after reading this he has something that I told him to give you. I just want you to know that both of your parents loved you and we would never leave you unless it was absolutely necessary.

I'm giving up everything for my village and the only thing I want is for everyone to treat my son like the hero that he is, not some monster that they might believe you to be. You are Namikaze Naruto, Son of the Yondaime Hokage, protect what is dear to you and never give up. Never give up and never go back on your word. That is my nindo; I hope you can gain something from it. They are calling me son, I have to leave now. Don't worry Naruto; I'm always with you in spirit.

Your loving father,

Namikaze Minato

Naruto looked at the letter with a look of indifference. Tsunade and Jiraiya were trying to gauge his reaction. They were waiting for him to explode any second now, but he never did. Naruto slowly tore his gaze from the letter to focus on Tsunade, "How long have you known?"

Tsunade heard the seriousness in Naruto's tone, "I found out a couple of months after you left."

Naruto turned to Jiraiya with a venomous look in his eyes, "You knew all along and you didn't tell me. Why, how could you?"

"Naruto, your father asked me a favor. If I told you I would be breaking a dying man wish, please understand." Jiraiya hoped his student would understand.

"I understand… I understand that I was my father sacrificed me to protect a village that shunned me. I was left to fend for myself, and I spent countless nights wondering if my parents abandoned me. All I ever wanted was to know who my parents were. You want to know what the lady at the orphanage told me once... She said that my parents had abandoned me because I was a good for nothing monster." Naruto vented his anger.

Jiraiya gave Naruto a sympathetic look, "I know you suffered Naruto but…"

Naruto laughed mockingly, "Suffered. What do you know about my suffering? I have a question for you Jiraiya, why not take me with you if you felt you owed Yondaime, hmm?"

"Sarutobi ordered that you not leave the village until you became a Genin. I fought but he wouldn't budge. I'm sorry Naruto; there was nothing I could do." Jiraiya said to his student.

Naruto narrowed his eyes, "Excuses." He then took his gaze off of Jiraiya and turned to Tsunade, "Don't think you're off the hook. You may not have known from the beginning, but why didn't you inform the council. If they knew I was the son of the Yondaime then…"

Tsunade cut Naruto off, "They already know. They all knew before me."

Naruto was now fuming, "You mean to tell me that they know and they still treat me as if I'm a plague?"

"I'm sorry Naruto. It's hard for them to understand that you aren't the Kyuubi, your just Naruto." Tsunade gave the blond a smile hoping it would lighten the mode. Naruto just got up and headed to the door.

"Where are you going?" Jiraiya asked.

"Kakashi has something that belongs to me, I'm going to get it" Naruto stopped at the door; He then looked back at the Hokage, "When this war is completely over and finished, I'm done with Konoha. My family sacrificed too much and has not gotten anything in return, not even a thank you. I should have charged more, but no amount of money could pay the debt that Konoha owes."

Naruto walked out of the office leaving Tsunade and Jiraiya behind. Tsunade looked at her former teammate, "He took that better than I thought."

Jiraiya nodded, "Yes he did. He's right though; Konoha owes him more than they can count. Getting him to stay in the village is going to be harder now Tsunade."

"I'm not going to try." The blond Hokage informed her teammate.

"Really, I thought that you said you wanted him to become a member of this village again."

"I did, but he more than anyone deserves to be happy. Before I contacted him I'm sure he was happy. This village has been hell for him and it's selfish to ask him back knowing that he suffered here for far too long. No Jiraiya, I'm not going to ask him to stay."

Jiraiya looked at the door that Naruto left through and just sigh. "Should I go to make sure Kakashi is still alive or what?"

Tsunade looked at her a teammate, "Do what you want. Kakashi is a big boy, he can take care of himself."

Jiraiya sat back down on the couch, "I guess you're right. So you're leaving for Mist later on today I see."

"Yes, the meeting is tomorrow at noon. We should arrive in Mist about 7pm today; at least it gives us sometime to get adjusted. I just want to put an end to this pathetic war. It seems like were fighting over nothing." The Hokage stated.

"This war is not what you might think it to be Tsunade. I hate being cryptic but you will find out what this war is all about real soon."

Tsunade quirked an eyebrow at Jiraiya's comment, "You know what this war is about, don't you? Your trip to Sea Country had a purpose. Tell me Jiraiya, why go to Sea Country?"

Jiraiya responded, "My trip to Sea Country was to see Ryuho. I had to find out something that concerns Naruto, however what I found was something more than I expected. All I'm going to say is keep your eyes open while in Mist. You will definitely miss something if you don't."

Tsunade stood up and slammed her hand against the table, "What the hell is that suppose to mean got dam…" Jiraiya body flickered, leaving a trail of smoke where he was once sitting. "Got damn it, he knew something. I swear when I see that frog loving bastard I'm going to kick his ass." Tsunade sat back in her chair and started to massage her eyebrows, "I getting to old for this shit. I really need a drink right now." The Medic-nin pulled out a glass and poured a cup of sake.

Kakashi's Apartment Building…

Naruto was knocking on the door of Kakashi's apartment. The knocks were so loud that the person next door came out, "Would you keep it down, some of us are trying to sleep here." Naruto slowly turned his head to face the person that was telling him to keep it down, "Oh, Naruto it's just you. Why the hell are you knocking so loud?"

Naruto just looked at Ino. She saw the anger in his eyes and wondered what had him up and pissed this early. Ino decided to be nice, "Naruto, come in. I'm sure Kakashi isn't in right now and you look like you haven't eaten, so come on in and let me fix you a meal."

Naruto thought it over for a second. He decided to eat at her apartment. After all, he could just wait there until Kakashi returned. Naruto walked over and entered Ino's apartment. Ino motioned for Naruto to follow her to the kitchen. She motioned for him to take a seat at the table. Ino went into the fridge to get some stuff to prepare breakfast,

"Why are you knocking on Kakashi's door so early anyway?"

"He has something that belongs to me and I want it right now." Naruto informed the Kunoichi.

"Whatever. Sakura, get your lazy ass out here!" Ino looked at Naruto, "She had a long night at the hospital, but maybe she can tell you where Kakashi is."

Sakura came out of her room in a long white t-shirt and pink slippers on. Rubbing her eyes, she walked into the kitchen, "Damn Ino, you could have let me sleep a little longer. Why the hell did you wake me?"

Ino pointed in Naruto's direction causing Sakura to turn and face him. She saw Naruto and jumped back slightly, "Naruto, you scared me, what brings you here?"

"I came looking for Kakashi, but he wasn't there and Ino offered to make me breakfast. You wouldn't happen to know where he's at?" Naruto asked his former teammate.

Sakura put he hand on her chin, "Well… He's usually training with Sasuke and Sai this time of the morning. They usually train until about 9, why are you looking for Kakashi-sensei?"

Naruto stood up, "Like I told Ino, he has something that belongs to me."

Naruto body flickered out of the room leaving the girls behind. Ino tightened her fist, "That bastard, how dare he not stay for my breakfast. Doesn't he know that I don't just cook for anyone? Oh that Naruto is so going to pay when I catch him. I'm going to make him this breakfast, kick his ass, and shove it down his throat. YOU HEAR THAT NARUTO? CONSIDER YOUR ASS KICKED YOU BASTARD." Ino looked around to see that Sakura had already slipped out of the room; this pissed her off even more. Ino just pumped her fist in the air to vent her frustration.

Ino looked out of the window and saw Chouji walking with Lee. "Chouji, Lee, I'm making a big breakfast and I can't possibly finish off by myself. Would you guys care to join me?"

Chouji and Lee looked at each other before their mouth filled with saliva. Before Ino knew it the two Jounins were sitting at her table. Ino force a smile, "Sakura and Naruto, you two are so dead."

Team 7 training ground…

Sasuke was sparing with Sai, and getting the better of him. Kakashi was looking at the members of the new Team 7 spar. Sai was losing and Kakashi decided it was enough, "Ok, Sasuke and Sai that's enough. We're done sparring for today." Sasuke looked at Kakashi and narrowed his eyes. He was pissed at the fact that Kakashi stopped him from pummeling Sai some more. Sasuke's attitude changed when he saw Naruto walking towards them.

Kakashi saw the sudden mood change in Sasuke; this caused him to turn around. What Kakashi saw was a pissed off looking Naruto. As Naruto walked up, Kakashi waved, "Hey Naruto how's everything?"

"Cut the formalities Kakashi, I've come to get what rightfully belongs to me."

Sasuke stepped up, "Looks like I might get a good spar, unless you're scared to fight, dobe."

Naruto cut his eyes at Sasuke, "I don't have to time to use you as a punching bag Sasuke, maybe some other time."

Naruto turned his attentions back to Kakashi, "You know why I'm here Kakashi, let's go now."

"I guess Jiraiya told you. Well Naruto, for what it's worth, I'm sorry I didn't inform you of this news. Let's go, I think I should give you what is rightfully yours." Kakashi said.

Naruto and Kakashi walked off, with Kakashi leading the way. Sai walked up to Sasuke who was still mad at Naruto, "So that was Uzumaki Naruto, eh? He doesn't look strong, but I guess he's something if he kicked your ass." When Sasuke turned around to face Sai, he had disappeared leaving Sasuke alone. Sasuke decided to go home and shower up. Maybe a little R&R would cool him down just a little.

10 mins later in Kakashi's apartment…

Kakashi motioned for Naruto to sit; however, he opted to stand. Kakashi shrugged and went to his back room. The copy nin came back with a scroll and a kunai. He handed the two items to Naurto. Naruto looked at the items curiously, trying to figure out their purpose. Kakashi spoke, "I have no idea what's in the scroll; however, that kunai is a special kunai. Your father used that kunai to perform arguably the greatest technique ever created. Naruto, do you know why your father was called the "Yellow Flash"?

Naruto shook his head. Kakashi begin to explain, "Yondaime was famous for a technique called the Hiraishin no Jutsu. With this technique, he could move at the speed of light. This technique made him feared throughout all of the ninja villages. Your father was a great man Naruto, I'm truly sorry you had to find out this way."

Naruto just looked at Kakashi. Kakashi couldn't tell what Naruto was thinking which made him uneasy. The silence thickened. After a minute Naruto spoke, "What was your connection with the Fourth, Kakashi?"

"I was his student."

Naruto eyes narrowed at the copy nin. Before he did something to Kakashi, Naruto just turned around and walked out his apartment. Kakashi knew that fact made Naruto mad. He knew that Naruto felt that he should have taught him; after all, his father did teach Kakashi. Naruto just walked down the hall. Ino opened her door to let Lee and Chouji out. Lee and Chouji turn to see Naruto walk past them.

Lee called out the blonde, "Naruto-kun. How's it going?" Lee got no response from the blonde. Lee looked dejected, "I wonder what happened to Naruto-kun."

"I don't know but he was looking for Kakashi earlier." Ino stated.

"Whatever it is, he looked really pissed", Chouji said.

"Pissed is an understatement. He's mad at me for keeping a secret from him." Kakashi informed the trio, who jumped at his presence.

Ino brow elevated slightly, "What did you do?"

"I knew who his parents were and I kept the secret from him." The copy nin informed the trio.

"Why would you do that?" Ino said with a slightly elevated voice.

Kakashi just turned around walked back to his apartment. When he closed the door the trio looked at each other. Chouji, Ino, and Lee took off to find out what was up with Naruto.

Naruto was walking down the street looking at the scroll and the kunai that Kakashi had giving him. He was studying it; he had to admit that the craftsmanship was top notch. Naruto put the Kunai in his pouch. He decided to go to a place where he could think. He decided to go to the one place that would bring him comfort in this village, the top of the Fourth's head. He laughed at the irony, "I guess kids will always seek out their parents when they need comfort." Naruto went to sit on top of the Fourth's head to think things over.

Ino, Lee, and Chouji were looking for the blond. Instead of finding him they ran into Asuma, "Hey guys, did any of you see Kurenai?"

Lee shook his head, "No Asuma-san, we did not. Did you happen to see Naruto-kun?"

"No I haven't. Did you guys check his hotel? If he's not there I would check the Hokage's tower or the Ichiraku ramen stand. If you guys don't find him there then I don't know what to tell you. By the way, why are you guys looking for Naruto?" Questioned the son of the Third.

Ino spoke, "Well he just came out of Kakashi's apartment mad. He had a weird kunai with him and a scroll."

The mentioning of the kunai caught Asuma's attention, "Wait, did you say he had a weird kunai with him."

"Yes, it's quite irregular. It had two pointy hilts at the base of the kunai, why what's so important about a kunai?" Ino asked her former instructor.

Asuma tried to choose his word carefully, "It's complicated Ino. If you see Kurenai, tell her that I'm looking for her." Asuma walked off leaving the group behind. "So Naruto finally knows. I'm surprised that he didn't beat Kakashi into the ground, but the day is still early. I better find Kurenai, I hope she's ok."

Top of the Hokage Monument…

Naruto sat on the Fourth's head processing the new information he just received. He just kept asking himself why didn't any one tell him. He already knew the answer, but it wasn't good enough for him. Naruto just looked of into the sky. The only thing is why didn't the Third tell him he had parents? The old man could have said that his parents died fighting the Kyuubi, anything would have been better than growing up thinking he was abandoned by them. Naruto stood up on top of his father's head and looked down at the village, he just shook his head. He decided to go back to the hotel and spend a couple of hours with Yumi before he headed to Mist. As he was walking away he stopped and looked at the sky, "I wonder…I wonder how different things would have been if you were alive?"

11 am Konoha…

Ino, Chouji and Lee decided to give up on finding Naruto. They went to the hotel right after they left Asuma. Yumi informed them that Naruto wasn't there. They checked Ichiraiku and found out that Ayame hadn't seen him either. The group walked side by side in defeat. Chouji broke the silence, "That guy is hard as hell to find."

"Yes, Naruto-kun is hard to track down." Lee stated in agreement with his friend.

"We have to find out what's wrong with Naruto guys, we can't give up. I know he's going with the Hokage today. We can talk to him before he leaves." Ino told the boys.

"What the hell are you babbling about now Ino? I bet it's troublesome as usual."

Ino turned around to see Shikamaru and Temari walking side by side. She glared at her teammate, "Everything is always troublesome for you, but if you must know we are looking for Naruto."

This caught Shikamaru's interest, "Why are you looking for Naruto?"

Chouji spoke, "We caught him leaving Kakashi's house after Ino was kind enough to serve me and Lee a delicious breakfast. He was pretty mad at Kakashi."

Shikamaru thought it over for a minute, "Hmm… that's interesting."

Ino raised her index finger, "Yes that's what I thought too. He was knocking on Kakashi's door around 8 this morning. I told him to come in so I could fix him something to eat, but he left when Sakura told him where Kakashi was. About 10-20 minutes later, we see him storming out of Kakashi's place with a scroll and a weird kunai."

"Tell me Ino, how did this kunai look?" Shikamaru had an idea of what happened, but still asked Ino to confirm it.

"Well it had two points at the end of the hilt. Why are you asking me this, Asuma-sensei asked me this as well? What the hell is so special about a kunai?" Ino asked the lazy Jounin.

"It's complicated Ino and too troublesome to explain. Frankly I don't have the time to start from the beginning, but I will say this: The kunai that Naruto had should answer any questions you may have. Anyway, from what you tell me and what I have concluded, I would warn you guys to let Naruto be. If anything you might just piss him off so don't try and find out from him. Look underneath the underneath." Shikamaru and Temari walked off leaving the trio looking at each other.

Temari looked at Shikamaru, "Now I'm curious, what the hell is the connection between Naruto and a weird kunai?"

"The kunai…let's just say it's his heritage." Shikamaru answered.

"You're being cryptic. What the hell does that mean?" Temari was getting slightly angry.

"I can't tell you. The only person who can and should tell you is Naruto. Temari, I have to find Naruto, you should head back to the hotel."

"What? No, I'm coming. There is something that you're not telling me and I want to know."

"Would you just go back to the hotel?" Shikamaru raised his voice causing Temari to jump. He calmed and spoke again, "I'm sorry for raising my voice but please Temari, this is important. I need to confirm something and this is a village secret."

She looked in his eyes and saw that he was serious about this, "Ok, but you're going to make this up to me when I get back."

Shikamaru sighed, "What is it that I have to do exactly?"

She whispered something in Shikamaru's ear, which caused his eyes to bulge out of his head. "You want me to do that?"

"What, you have a problem with that?" She asked.

"No not at all. I thought you were going to have me do something else but that is great. It's not troublesome, nope not troublesome at all."

"I figure you would say that. Well I guess I'll see you before we set off. Later." She kissed him on the lips then walked off. Shikamaru headed in the direction of the hotel that Naruto was staying at, thinking happy thoughts.

11:45 pm Hotel…

Naurto kissed Yumi, "I have to go."

Naruto turned around to open the door, but Yumi grabbed his arm and turned him back around, "Naruto, when you get back, we'll talk more about this, ok."

"I really don't want to talk about it anymore, but if it will make you feel any better, then I guess it couldn't hurt." Naruto said.

"Naruto, it's good for you to let it out and not bottle things up. I just want you to be happy that's all." Yumi said while caressing his cheek.

"I know. Yumi I have to go. I will see you when I get back." Naruto kissed her one last time; he then left the Hotel. Naruto was on his way to the docks when he spotted Shikamaru leaning against the wall of the building, "So you finally decided to head to the ship. Let's walk together."

"That's alright, I'll walk alone." Naruto told Shikamaru.

"From what Ino tells me, Kakashi has given you your father's kunai."

Naruto froze. Naruto didn't turn around when he spoke, "How did you know?"

Shikamaru walked up to Naruto, "Let's walk and talk."

Naruto nodded and they continue to the docks.

Shikamaru spoke, "I put two and two together. I found out a couple of weeks after your banishment. I wondered why you were being banished for a mission that wasn't your fault. To me, it seemed like the council had it out for you and that got me to thinking."

Naruto gave Shikamaru a side-glance, "Are you going to tell me how you figured it out?"

"Well, it wasn't hard if you open your eyes. The thing I was trying to figure out was why did all of the adults hate you? So I proceeded to find out, and that led me to more than I ever expected. When I confronted Tsunade, I told her that I thought back to a time when Hinata asked Iruka about your birthday. You came to class sporting goggles the next day, I believe. When I thought back to that time, I put it altogether. I figured that you were hated for something that had to do with the nine-tails." Shikamaru stated.

Naruto spoke once more, "Still not telling me how you found out."

Shikamaru spoke, "You're right, I guess in the interest of time I should speed it up. Anyway I asked Temari about Gaara's demon and how come they couldn't kill it, when the Fourth killed the Kyuubi."

"Let me guess, she told you that there was no way for a human to kill a demon." Naruto stated

"Yes, exactly what she said. Then I put it together. Your weird chakra at the Chuunin finals, the whisker marks, and the hatred you received. It was because you're the jailor of the Kyuubi. That led me to ask, why would the Fourth seal the Kyuubi inside of you? Based on the stories that everyone tells about him being a noble man, I figured he wouldn't ask anyone else to sacrifice their child, which is why he sacrificed his own son."

Naruto shook his head, "You're too smart for your own good Shikamaru; you should just let things be."

Shikamaru shrugged his shoulders, "It was troublesome, but as the leader of the mission to retrieve Uchiha, I figured the blame should be passed all around, not just to you. In fact, I believe nobody should have been blamed. He wasn't kidnapped, he went on his own accord and you suffered for his actions. It sucks that he's going to be Hokage. I know you would have made a great one."

"Maybe I would have, but we will never know. I hate asking but could you do me a favor Shikamaru?" Naruto asked the pineapple-haired Jounin.

"What is it?" Shikamaru asked the Yondaime's son.

"Yumi and her mother have been getting funny looks from the villagers and some the shinobi here. If you could, would you…"

"I'll keep a close eye on them Naruto." Shikamaru answered the question Naruto was about to ask.

The two arrived at the docks to see Gaara, Sasuke, Sakura, Kankurou, Tsunade, Neji, Kakashi, Temari, and four Anbu guards. Naruto and Shikamaru walked up to the crowd. Naruto walked past them and went on to the ship. Every looked at Naruto then back Shikamaru, "What? It's to troublesome to explain, I'm sure Kakashi and Tsunade-sama knows why he's acting the way he's acting. Anyway, I have paper work to do", he proceeded to walk off.

He turned back to look at Temari, "Don't do anything troublesome"

She smiled, "I will try not to do anything troublesome, cry baby."

Shikamaru turned around and headed towards the administration building.

Tsunade motioned for everyone to get on the ship. After 15 minutes, the ship sailed off; destination: Mist Village.

7 pm Water Country…

The ship docked in the Mist Village docks. During the whole ride, Naruto, Neji, Gaara, and Sasuke were off by themselves. Temari, Kankerou and Sakura were entertaining each other. Tsunade and Kakashi were in her private until a crewmember informed them that they had arrived. Around five minutes later, Tsunade and Gaara, dressed in their respective Kage outfits, were greeted by a couple of Mist nins: "Welcome Hokage-sama, Kazekage-sama; we have been expecting you and your guests. If you will please follow us."

The group followed the Mist nins. One of the Mist nins spoke, "Hokage-sama, Kazekage-sama, you and your guest have been invited to have dinner with Mizukage, the Raikage, and the Tsuchikage and their respective entourages."

Tsunade spoke, "If you would gladly inform me, how many guests are with the Raikage and the Tsuchikage?"

The nin turned back to Tsunade, "Well, there are four guests that came with the Tsuchikage and five guests that came with Raikage. They've been awaiting your arrival."

The group of Mist nin led them to a nice restaurant. When they entered, the group from the Leaf and the Sand saw that they, along with the group from the Mist, the group from the Rock, and the group from the Cloud were the only ones there.

The Misukage stood up, "Welcome guests. How are you doing Hokage-dono, Kazekage-dono?"

Tsunade spoke up, "I'm great and yourself?"

'

"I'm good as well. Would you all please sit; there are seats all over." He motioned for them to sit. Everyone took a seat at the table.

Naruto could feel the stares directed at him. They were coming from all of the Cloud nins and Rock nins. The waiter came to the table and asked everyone for their dinner orders. Once the waiter took their orders, he left. The Misukage spoke, "So I see you have bought the "Golden Fox", Uchiha Sasuke, Copy ninja Kakashi, a Hyuuga, and I'm not familiar with this lovely lady, Hokage-dono; who is she if you don't mind me asking?"

Tsunade spoke up, "That is Haruno Sakura, my apprentice."

The Raikage spoke, "Bringing this many skilled shinobi makes one think you're preparing to kill someone."

Tsunade looked at the Raikage, "Well you never know what type of protection you might need. It's a dangerous world we live in."

"I guess your right. So why bring Uzumaki, he isn't a Leaf nin is he?" The Raikage asked.

Gaara spoke, "Does it matter? His presence here is really none of your concern."

The Raikage narrowed his eyes at Gaara, "I suppose it isn't, I'm just curious, that's all."

The Tsuchikage spoke, "I see you're not worried about being attacked Kazekage-dono. To only travel with two people you must be pretty confident."

Kankurou spoke, "Gaara doesn't need us here. The fact of the matter is we signed on for this mission. It's not like your forces are a real threat anyway."

A Rock-nin, with a baldhead and brown eyes clenched his fist under the table. He wanted to pound that make-up wearing freak. His anger turned into confusion when heard laughter coming from the Tsuchikage, "I suppose you're right. It's not like any of us really need people to guard us. I mean, what type of Kages would we be if we needed to be guarded?"

Naruto was getting bored. The dinner in his mind was pointless and the stares that he was receiving just mad him madder. A female Rock nin, who looked to be in her late 20s, looked at Naruto, "So Uzumaki, did you kill any Rock nin's lately?"

Naruto looked at the girl, "Does it matter? I'm sure you want to kill me. If you are going to try anything, I would seriously think about it. I already took out over 100 of your nins, effortlessly I might add, so do what you think?"

The girl eyed Naruto with anger, "There's no need for that now Uzumaki, you're time will come."

Naruto didn't ever respond to the girl. Kouen looked at the girl who spoke, "It seems that you're village is always having problems with blonds, eh?"

The Tsuchikage gave a slight laugh, "True. Last time it was the "Yellow Flash", now it's the "Golden Fox". Not only are they blondes, they kind of look a like as well. You wouldn't happen to be his son?"

Tsunade and Kakashi didn't let their emotions betray them and neither did Naruto. Naruto stayed quit for a couple of minutes before speaking, "The only thing that we have in common is our eye and hair color. The comparisons stop there."

"I know if he had a kid it would have been known." The Tsuchikage stated.

"If he did have a kid what did you plan on doing to that child?" Neji asked.

The Raikage looked a Neji, "So, the Hyuuga speaks."

Neji glanced at him then back to the Tsuchikage awaiting his answer, "Well to be quite blunt with you, the child would have been killed. The "Yellow Flash"'s skill was beyond belief."

Tsunade slammed the table, "Do you think your pathetic village could have done anything to the Leaf? If Naruto here was able to kill all the nins, effortlessly was it Naruto?"

"Effortlessly", Naruto confirmed

"Effortlessly, do you think you could have even killed Yondaime's kid, if he had one?" Tsunade demanded.

"Yes." The Tsuchikage stated

Sasuke smirked at the Tsuchikage, "You forget that the Uchiha clan and the Hyuuga clan protect the Leaf. Let's say he had a kid, you would have gotten nowhere near the child. You would have been signing your death warrants."

"The mighty Uchiha clan, I forgot. Wasn't your clan wiped out by a single ninja?" A Rock nin, with black hair and brown eyes, whom was clearly older than Kakashi but younger than Tsunade, said.

"You're right; the Uchiha clan was wiped out by one lone nin. But if you must know, that nin was an Uchiha. You will do well to remember that." Sasuke responded with a smirk.

The Mizukage spoke up, "Come people, let us all try to get along. Isn't that why we are all here?"

Naruto spoke, "The reason we are here is because Sasuke, Sakura, and I just waltzed into a ninja base in Lightning Country and recovered some secret documents. Isn't that right, Raikage?"

The Raikage looked at Tsunade, "He has spunk doesn't he. There was this Leaf nin who also had spunk." He pulled out a black headband with the symbol on it and tossed it to Tsunade, "It seems spunk was all he had."

Tsunade analyzed the headband. She looked on the back to see something that she had wrote years ago. The inscription said, "Become strong and protect what is dear to you".

She gripped the headband and looked at the Raikage with hatred in her eyes.

The Raikage noticed the look and continued, "Poor kid really, could have been a promising ninja if his parents had taught him better."

Kakashi knew that would set Tsunade off, he placed his hand on her balled up fist that was under the table. She looked at Kakashi, who just shook his head. Tsunade collected herself, "Well Raikage-dono, I'm glad you were so kind enough to return the head band of a Leaf nin."

"Don't mention it." The Raikage said with a grin.

"If you would excuse me, I lost my appetite. Mizukage, if you would have someone show me and my guest to our hotel rooms I would be grateful."

The Mizukage motioned for one his guards to escort Tsunade and her guests. Gaara stood up; Temari and Kankerou quickly followed. He looked at the Mizukage, "Do I even need to ask?"

The Mizukage motioned for one of his guards to escort the Kazekage and his guest to their hotel rooms.

When they got outside, Naruto left the group. Sakura yelled after him, "Naruto, where are you going?"

He didn't even look back to acknowledge her, he just kept walking. Tsunade looked at Sasuke and Neji. "Go follow him. I know he can take care of himself but those nin's were looking at him funny in there. I'm quite sure that they will try something. Sakura, Kakashi, follow me."

Gaara looked at Temari and Kankerou, "Did you pick up on the vibe that I picked up in there?"

Temari responded, "Yes I did. There is something out of place."

"Gaara, what do you want us to do?" Kankerou asked.

Gaara thought about Kankerou's question, "I would have said follow Naruto but he's more than capable, besides that won't give me insight on to what is wrong here. I want you guys to watch that guy from the Cloud with the blue hair and that bald headed guy from the Rock. Do not engage those two in combat. Just observe and report your findings back to me ok."

Naruto was walking through the Village. Young Mist nins watched him as he walked by. Older Mist nins were whispering about who he was. Naruto paid them no mind; he was still coming to grips with the fact that he was the Fourth's son. Naruto turned down a deserted street; he was deep in thought. "I wonder who my mother was. I'm sure that perverted bastard knows. Kakashi would definitely know. I'll ask him about it. I have to ask him, Tsunade, or Jiraiya about something in the scroll. I'm sure they know the location of the Namikaze house." Naruto thoughts were broken when shurikens flew at him.

Naruto flipped and avoided them. He looked up to see the female Cloud nin. She gave him a sinister smile, "Uzumaki Naruto, today is the day that you die. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Sucho Kumoko, Third strongest in the Cloud. We can do this two ways: 1) you can lie down and die or 2) you can fight and die, the choice is yours."

Naruto turned around to walk away from her, "Get lost. I have a lot of shit on my mind. If you're the third strongest in Cloud then your village is pathetic."

The Kunochi appeared in front of him, "You're not going anywhere."

She threw a punch to Naruto's face. Instead of dodging it Naruto took it full force. His head snapped back to the right. She smirked, but his laughter caused her to raise her eyebrow in question. Naruto slowly turned his head back to face her. "You really want to kill me don't you? Ok, I gave you a chance to leave here alive."

Naruto blurred out of sight. The Kunochi from the Cloud couldn't believe he was this fast. She was looking around to find Naruto. A fist connected to the left side of her jaw, sending her flying and skidding to the ground. She jumped up quickly to see where he went. A sharp kick was planted in her chin sending her in the air. While in the air a kick in the back from one of his clones sent her up ward. Another kick followed from her left side, which was followed by a kick from her right side, which was followed by kick to her stomach send in her towards the sky. She looked up to see Naruto coming down with a kick aimed at her head; she knew that she couldn't dodge it. The kick landed sending her crashing to the ground.

Naruto formed a Rasengan in his hand as he approached her slowly, "I was walking trying to mind my business, but nooooo, here you come and disturb my peace because of some grudge. I'm sure you have your reasons but you really picked the wrong fucking time to mess with me. I gave you an out, but it looks like the Cloud is going back minus one."

Naruto's killer intent scared the konoichi from the Cloud. Before Naruto got close to her, lightning struck the ground causing him to jump back. He dispersed the Rasengan and looked up to see four more Cloud Jounins. Naruto looked at the Cloud nin with blue hair. Something about that guy made Naruto wonder. He then looked at the other three, one of whom, Cadaan, decided to go help Kumoko. The other remaining two stood beside the man with blue hair. The one on the right was close to 7 feet. He had long black hair, black eyes and a complexion similar to Naruto's. The other man, the one on the left, was the same height as the one in the middle. His brown hair and emerald eyes were fixed on the blond before him.

The one in the middle motioned for the two to go next to Kumoko. The two men landed next to Kumoko and Cadaan. Kumoko placed and arm around Cadaan's shoulder for support. Naruto saw the other nin move from his position on the roof to in front of Naruto.

The blue haired Ninja smiled at Naruto, "I'm sorry for her attacking you. Allow me to introduce myself, my name is Nenshou Kouen."

"Uzumaki Naruto."

Kouen continued, "This tall gentlemen here is Roba, the brown hair gentlemen over there is Daki, and the guy holding up the girl is Cadaan."

"Why did she attack me?" Naruto asked Kouen.

"Well, you killed her father, the Cloud's "Red Lightning". She just wanted to avenge her father's death. It doesn't matter, people die in fights all the time, we can't let a little thing like revenge consume us." Kouen informed Naruto.

"If it's any consolation, her father tried to kill me; I was only protecting myself. He did however put up a good fight." Naruto said emotionlessly.

Kouen smiled, "I'm sure he did. Well Naruto, you don't have to worry about dying here today. I will kill you another time."

Naruto smiled, "Hmph, why not do it now and get it over with?"

Kouen responded, "It isn't the time for that. However, my men here will rough you up bit while I watch, if you don't mind that is."

Naruto got into a fighting stance, "I need to let off some steam anyway. I can use these two idiots as punching bags."

The two men flanking Kouen's charged Naruto, but two kunai implanted in the ground caused them to stop mid stride. Naruto turned around to see Sasuke and Neji standing over him with their arms folded.

Sasuke smirked at Naruto, "You disappoint me dobe. I was expecting to come here and find five Cloud nins dead or heavily injured but what I find is one girl injured and four guys getting ready to kick your ass, pathetic."

Naruto turned his gaze back on the Cloud nins, "Well if you had waited a bit longer you would have gotten a good show. You interfered because you wanted a piece of the action."

Sasuke closed his eyes with a grin on his face, "Hmph, I guess you're right. Since you're too scared to fight me, I guess I can use these fools for sport."

Sasuke and Neji disappeared from the roof and appeared right next to Naruto. Neji look at the nins from Cloud, "Unless you want to die, I suggest you turn around and go about your business."

Daki narrowed his eyes at Neji and Sasuke, "This doesn't involve you Hyuuga, or you, Uchiha."

"Actually, It does involve the Uchiha as well." Kouen stated.

"What involves me?"

Kouen began to explain, "Well you see, I was telling Naruto that I was going to be the one to kill him. I also made you one of the people that I want to kill. You should feel honored, it's not everyday that you get someone with my skill to play the role of executioner."

Sasuke activated his Sharingan, "Oh executioner? Well I suggest you kill me now if you can."

Kouen smiled at the raven-haired man in front of him, "Not now Sasuke. You will die soon, that much I promise. Well it looks like I won't get to see how strong you are Naruto. It's ok though, I'm sure I will find out shortly. Cadaan, Daki, Roba, Kumoko, we're leaving. Farewell Naruto, Sasuke, and Hyuuga. We will definitely meet again." The Cloud nins disappeared in a cloud of smoke.

Neji turned to Naruto, "What was that all about Naruto?"

Naruto spoke, "I don't know. The girl attacked me first. When I went in to finish her off, the other four appeared. The other three seem to be strong, not very, but still strong in their own right. But that one with blue hair… something is off about him."

Sasuke looked at the spot where the Cloud nins disappeared, "You're right, but we probably won't find out right now."

"The best thing to do is just watch and observe." Neji stated.

A clapping sound caused all of them to turn around. What they saw was a man sitting at the edge of the roof with a black cloak. The man with the black coat spoke, "That would be the best thing to do, Hyuuga. Oh, and before you guys get defensive, I'm not an enemy. In fact, I'm an ally."

Sasuke narrowed his eyes at the man, "We don't need you as an ally. Get lost, loser."

"Are all Uchiha's arrogant? It doesn't matter; I'm here just to complement you guys on your course of action. But I'm here actually for you, Naruto." The man in black cloak stated. "It seems that Ryuho was right about you."

The mentioning of his sensei caught Naruto's attention, "You know Ryuho-sensei?"

"Yes, I know Ryuho; I was actually at his house yesterday." The cloaked man said.

The man in the cloak removed his hood to reveal his black hair and his golden brown eyes. His look was nothing short of serious, "Naruto, I'm here to pass along a message. Well I'm here to pass along two messages. The first is about you Naruto. Ryuho said it's time you take the trials; I'm sure you know what that means. The next message is to be relayed to the Hokage. Tell her…sake is not water. I also think she would be pleased to know the Phoenix has risen from the ashes."

The group's eyes bugged, they knew who this man was. Naruto was the first to break the silence, "You're Senzairu, aren't you?"

"So you know who I am. Just be sure to relay the message. Oh and Naruto, what level are your gravity seals on?" Senzairu asked

"How did you know I had gravity seals?" Naruto asked.

"I spoke to Ryuho, remember." Senzairu stated

Naruto responded, "I'm currently at X3. I can only assume that you have them, so what level are you on?"

Senzairu smirked, "I'm currently on X6. Later guys" Senzairu disappeared in a blue flame. His voice echoed throughout the area, "Remember, I'm watching you guys."

Naruto, Sasuke, and Neji knew that they had to go back and inform Tsunade of this info.

10 minutes later at the Hotel…

Sasuke and Neji informed Tsunade of everything that transpired. Tsunade was in utter shock, but happy at the same time. Sakura spoke, "So did he say anything else?"

Neji shook his head, "He didn't say anything else. I'm not really worried about him; I'm more worried about that Cloud Jounin with the blue hair."

Sakura was curious, "Why is that Neji? Do you believe he's that strong?"

Kakashi spoke, "Something is definitely off with him. I hate to admit, but I'm certain that I probably couldn't beat him."

"Really Kakashi-sensei? This guy must be something then." Sakura thought out loud.

Sasuke looked at Sakura, "He's not that impressive, but he is definitely stronger than the rest of those Cloud idiots. He wants to kill me and the dobe, by the way where the hell is he?"

Naruto was on the balcony of Tsunade's room. He was looking down at the village. Tsunade decided to join Naruto, "Naruto, are you ok?"

"I'm fine." Naruto kept his gaze on the village.

Tsunade gave him a sad look, then turned to walk away, "Obaa-chan can I ask you something?" Tsunade turned back around to face Naruto who was still looking down at the village.

"Sure Naruto, what do you want?"

"My mother…I know about my father, but what was my mother's name?" Naruto asked.

Tsunade gave joyous smile, "Her name was Namikaze Uzumaki Kushina. Her maiden name was Uzumaki, which is where you get your name. I didn't know your mother that well; you would have to ask Kakashi about her, he knows more. However, I can tell you what I do know about her."

"Would you tell me what you know?"

"Well Naruto, I met her only a handful of times in my life but she was a very nice lady. She had long beautiful brown hair and mesmerizing blue eyes. Your mother was a beautiful woman. She seemed nice the times we met. Every time we met she was scolding your father about eating too much ramen." Tsunade laughed at the memory of the women chastising the Yondaime.

She walked up and placed a hand on Naruto's shoulder, "Naruto, I am truly sorry that we told you now, but it was the perfect time to do so. If it were my decision, you would have found out when you were able to talk. Naruto, I'm not going to ask you to join the village again, you have truly sacrificed too much and helped the village numerous times. If it means anything, I want you to know that I'm proud of you."

Naruto continued to look at the village, "I know you are."

Naruto looked away from the city and turned to face Tsunade, "Obaa-chan, there is something in the scroll Kakashi gave me about the Namikaze house, do you know where it is located?"

"When we get back to the village, I will show you personally." Tsunade turned to gaze upon the Mist village.

Naruto turned his eye back on the village as well. The two stood there in silence. One thinking of what to say to her son when she finally saw him; the other, worrying about what the message given to him by Senzairu and the scroll Kakashi had giving him.

"So Ryuho-sensei wants me to take the trials? If he's willing to pass the sword down to me something bad is going to happen soon. I also have to go to the Namikaze house to get the scroll that's mentioned in the scroll Kakashi gave me." Naruto took the kunai out of his pouch and examined it, "Maybe that scroll will tell me how to perform the Hiraishin? The scroll you gave Kakashi was to cryptic father, what is it that you're trying to tell me?" Naruto looked at the full moon. The days ahead of him were going to challenge him like he had never been challenged before; that much he knew for certain.