Chapter 16: Back With You

9 am, Sea Country…

Naruto was preparing to leave his second home. His next destination was the Leaf Village, where his Yumi was. With a new blue long sleeve shirt, with a white horizontal stripe across the chest, blue sweat pants and matching sandals, and the Heaven's Blade strapped to his back, Naruto was ready to go. He left his room and the compound. Naruto stepped outside of the compound to see that Ryuho and Kaori were waiting for him.

"Ryuho-sensei, Kaori-san, are you guys planning to see me off?" Naruto asked the two.

"Yes. So, are you heading back to Konoha?" Ryuho gave Naruto a questioning look.

"Yeah. I promised that I would aid Konoha in this war. Plus, Yumi and her mother are there." Naruto informed them.

"When are you coming back this way, Naruto?" Kaori asked.

"Well, I had planed on coming back in three days. I want you guys to meet Yumi." Naruto told Kaori.

Everyone turned around when they heard a voice screaming his name. Naruto saw the little girl running from the compound in their direction. The girl arrived in front of Naruto, "Naruto-nii-san, you're leaving already? Stay for another day!"

Naruto rubbed the little girls head, "Sorry, Yami-chan, but I have to go back to the Leaf. Don't worry, I will be back in three days and I plan to spend two weeks with everyone."

Hayami's face brightened up, "Really?"

"Really, besides I want you to meet Yumi, I think you're going to like her." Naruto told the girl before him.

"I'm sure she is nice, I can't wait to meet her." A thought popped in Hayami's head, "You're coming back in three days, right Naruto-nii-san?"

He gave the girl a suspicious look, "I said I was… why do you ask?"

She turned to her parents, "If nii-san is going to be back in three days, can I go with him? I had so much fun when we went to Wind Country and met Gaara-san, Temari-neechan, and the clown-man."

Ryuho gave Naruto a weird look, "Clown-man?"

Naruto laughed at the little girl's nickname for Kankuro. He looked at his sensei, "She's talking about the Kazekage's brother."

Kaori responded to her daughter, "No honey. There are a lot of people who don't like your nii-san out there, because of what he did to save you. I'm sure that if they could use you to get to your big brother, they would." Kaori watched her daughter get a sad look on her face. Hayami looked at her father hoping he would be the voice of reason, but he just shook his head.

"Your mother is right, Yami-chan. Besides, you have training to do. When I get back I expect you to show me what you can do." Naruto gave the girl a smile.

She looked up and gave him a slight smile and a nod. She gave Naruto a hug "See you in three days, nii-san."

"I'll see you then, Yami-chan." The girl broke the embrace.

Ryuho stepped forward, "Well Naruto, I think you should get going if you plan to make it to Konoha by sun down. Naruto, take care of the sword, okay. Hayami?"

The little girl looked up, "Yes, father?"

"Come, we have training to do." The little girl nodded. Her and her father proceeded to walk off, leaving Naruto behind with Kaori.

"Well, I guess this is goodbye for now. Be careful out there, Naruto." Kaori turned to walk away.

"Kaori-san" Ryuho's wife stopped and turned to face him.

"Yes, Naruto?" She asked.

"Did you mean what you said…you know…about me being your son?" Naruto asked in a slightly nervous tone.

She gave him a reassuring smile, "Yes, every word of it. Ryuho feels the same way too. You and Shinji are like the sons we never had."

Naruto now knew for sure where he stood in their hearts. "You guys are like the parents I never had. The only reason why it will take me three days is because I recently found out who my father was and in his letter I was instructed to go to the Namikaze house."

"So, you know who your parents are? That's good for you Naruto. Who are they?" She asked already knowing the answer.

"The Yondaime is my father. Ironic, when you think about it, but it makes sense at the same time. My mother name was Uzumaki Kushina, that's all I know so far."

"Well, I'm glad you found out who your parents are, but it doesn't change our feelings toward you. We all see you as family here. So, go do what you must do and hurry back. If you don't, Hayami is going to bug me about why you're taking so long to come back." The lady said, causing Naruto to chuckle.

"Then I guess it's time to leave, later Kaori-kaa-san" Naruto Shunshin-ed out of sight. Kaori looked at the spot where Naruto had stood for a minute; she then turned and headed back to the compound with a smile on her face.

Ten minutes later, Naruto was at the docks. He paid for a ticket and boarded the boat five minutes later. The young man walked onto the charter boat. He recognized a few people from Sea Country on the boat. Some were probably going to Tea Country, while others were heading towards Fire Country. Naruto went to the center of the boat, put both of his forearms on the rail and leaned forward looking at the sea. Standing next to him was a man with his arms folded. The man next to him was dressed in a peasant's straw hat, a sky blue robe, a dark blue gi under the robe, and matching color sandals. His blue hair was touching his shoulders.

The man spoke, "We have some dangerous times ahead of us young man, don't you think?"

Naruto responded while still focusing on the ocean, "You're right about that. Something big is going to happen."

The older man nodded in agreement. He glanced at the weapon on Naruto's back "That's a nice sword you got there, you must be some swordsman to wield that sword."

Naruto pushed off of the rail and looked at the man with a smirk on his face, "I learned from the best, right Kaito-sensei?"

The older man lifted his head showing his emerald color eyes. Kaito smiled at his former apprentice. "It's good to see you again, Fox."

With a grin from ear to ear, Naruto responded, "Like wise, Kaito-sensei."

Konoha, 9:30…

Senzairu arrived at the training ground to find his squad waiting for him. He looked at his squad, who had angry looks on their face, "Sorry everyone, I had a few errands to run. Okay, let's start the training."

He pulled out one bell. "Whoever gets this bell from me will become a genin. The two who don't will go back to the academy."

The girl, Akuru spoke with slight shock in her voice, "What! You can't be serious sensei!"

He gave the girl a serious look, "Do I look like I'm joking. This is the weeding out process. Whoever is fit to become a ninja will, those who are not will go back to the academy and wait for another chance to become a genin. It's 9:30, you guys have until noon. The test starts now."

Everyone took off to hide. Senzairu was standing around. He already knew each of their locations. He sensed Makeinu, the dead-last, moving towards the girl named Akuru.

Makeinu didn't want to fail the test and he had a plan. When he landed next to Akuru, who was hiding in the bushes, he bent down and spoke to the girl on the ground "Akuru-chan, let's work together."

"Why would I want to work with you? I'm better off getting the bells by myself." She said to the boy.

He decided to put his plan in action, "Let's be serious, we can not take him separately. Maybe if we go together, we can take him?"

She thought about it for a second. He was right, they had no chance against their instructor, "Okay, let's say we get the bell, how do we decide who gets it?"

"We can do rock, paper, scissor and the winner gets the bell." He said with excitement.

"That's not a bad idea, dead-last." Ranpu walked up to the two.

He gave the boy a hateful look, "Who said I was including you?"

"Three is better than two, idiot; besides Ranpu was the rookie of the year, so he can help in this plan." Akuru explained.

Makeinu was mad, but he knew she was right, "Okay, let's decide now."

Both nodded and they proceeded with the rock, paper, scissors. Makeinu slump his shoulders; Akuru did so as well. Ranpu was smirking, for he was the winner. He looked at Makeinu, "So, what's the plan?"

Makeinu began to tell them his plan. Senzairu was sitting in the tree above them, hidden by a genjutsu, happy that they figured out the test, even if it's not intentional, "It seems that they are on the right track. Let's see what they have planned." Senzairu pulled out Icha Icha Paradise, while his clone was left standing in the middle of the field.

Makeinu finished telling his plan. He then went out to where the clone was and started to attack. Akuru, who knew a Doton jutsu decide to use it. Senzairu's feet sunk into the ground, caught off guard by this, and Ranpu took advantage closing his tenketsus. Ranpu then grabbed the bell and said with a smirk, "Looks like the test is over, sensei."

The Senzairu on the ground looked up at the boy with a smile, "Not quite" He then poofed out of existence.

Everyone stared in shock. The bell in Ranpu hand turned into a pebble. Akuru who shook off her shock yelled at Ranpu, "Ranpu-kun, activate your Byakugan to discover his location."

The boy complied and his eyes widened. See his eyes widen, Makeinu asked, "What do you see?"

"Kage buushins in various locations, it is impossible to tell which one is the real one." He laughed to himself at the situation before pulling out a kunai, "Oh well, looks like we have to take out everyone of them?"

Both of his teammates, feeding off of his confidence, nodded. The group jumped off, heading towards one of the clones.

Senzairu was glad, "So they're working together. It's sad that they won't get a bell, but at least they will pass."

Two hours and thirty minutes later…

The members of Team Two were panting. Akuru was sitting on one knee, Ranpu was standing on both legs but breathing hard, and Makeinu was laying flat on his back. When the alarm went of Senzairu appeared in front of them. "It seems you guys have failed to get a bell, so you know what that means."

Makeinu sat up, "It means we're going back to the academy, right sensei?"

"Nonsense, you guys passed." Senzairu said all the while smiling. This caused them to look at him confused.

Ranpu spoke, "Why? We didn't get a bell so we failed. Why pass us?"

"Yeah sensei, why pass us?" Akuru added.

Senzairu started to explain, "You guys were placed in groups of three, now why is that so? The truth is, you guys stand no chance against a jounin-level ninja, not by yourselves anyway. However, the three of you guys together do."

Makeinu didn't understand what his sensei was getting at, "I still don't understand sensei."

Senzairu slapped his head, "And to think, you were the reason the team passed. It's about teamwork. Why do you think I had only one bell to begin with?"

Ranpu spoke, "I get it now. The true purpose of the test was to get us to work together. The reason you used the bell was to cause a dispute between us."

"Correct! Makeinu, unknowingly, got you guys to work together as a unit. When you guys worked together, you were able to grab the bell right?" Senzairu asked.

Akuru whispered, "Off of a clone."

"It doesn't matter if it was a clone, you guys had great teamwork. Well, that is enough for today; you guys are free to go; report to the bridge at 7 am sharp for our first mission." Senzairu performed Shunshin no jutsu, leaving the group behind.

Everyone looked at each other. Makeinu was the first to break the silence, "So, what do you guys want to do now?"

In the village…

Tsunade was walking down the street with Yumi. Since her workload was light, she decided to get to know Yumi a little better. "So, you and Naruto have been together for a year now?"

"Yes, Hokage-sama, we have. Naruto is really a great guy."

"I'm glad that he found happiness. I wish it could have been in this village, but I guess it wasn't meant to be." Yumi heard the sadness in the Hokage's voice.

"Hokage-sama, I know why the village hates Naruto so much, but don't they know that he and the beast are not the same person?"

Tsunade answered, "Some may know that he is Naruto and others may think he is the beast reincarnated; however, everyone uses Naruto as a scapegoat, because they were powerless against the Kyuubi. When the beast was sealed inside of Naruto, he was doomed to live a hard life. Such is the fate of most jinchuuriki."

Yumi looked off into the distance with a sad expression on her face, "It must painful to be hated all of your life for something out of your control."

"I assume it is. But, at least there are people like you who can overlook that type of thing. Without people like you, those who contain demons would become monsters. I'm just thankful that Naruto didn't become one." Tsunade stated to the girl.

There was silence for a minute between the two until Tsunade spoke, "So, how do you like Konoha?"

Yumi spoke "It's a nice village when people aren't looking down upon you based on who your fiancée is. This village would be perfect, minus the hate that I have received from the people, because of what they see Naruto as."

"Let's go grab a bite to eat. My favorite restaurant is at the end of this road."

"Sure Hokage-sama, I am kind of hungry." The two ladies continued until they reached the restaurant.

Fire Country, Southern Border…

Kakashi and his group arrived an hour earlier than expected. The group set up camp and the patrol duties were given out in that hour span. Hanabi and Konohamaru were assigned the mornings, Tenten and Shizune in the afternoon, and Kakashi and Asuma during the night. Kakashi stated that the patrol wouldn't begin until tonight. Everyone was sitting around. Kakashi was lying in the tree with his book over his face. Asuma, Tenten, Hanabi, Konohamaru, and Shizune were sitting around the circle talking.

Asuma looked at Konohamaru, "So, what happened while you guys were out here?"

"We ran into a group of missing-nins and Senzairu took out the leader. From what I heard, he did it with ease. But, I wonder why the old lady is so suspicious." Konohamaru thought out loud.

Tenten and Shizune both said in unison "Don't call Tsunade-sama that." the two women looked at each other. Hanabi spoke, "If Hokage-sama is suspicious, then there has to be a reason. If something is up, we will find out."

"The fact that a missing-nin confronted a group of nins from a village not far away was foolish and a bit out of the norm. Tsunade-sama has a reason for being suspicious." Everyone was looking at Kakashi who was still in the tree. He then placed the book over his face.

"Well, I'm going to get some rest since I have the late shift with Kakashi." Asuma got up and went to crash inside one of the tents. Tenten looked at him leave; she turned her eyes back to Shizune, "Shizune-san, what you think about this situation?"

"I think that we should keep our eyes open. If we don't, we're bound to miss something and since we are still at war, we can't afford to miss anything." Shizune stated.

Konohamaru got up; Hanabi wondered where he was going, "Where are you off to Konohamaru?"

"I'm going to collect some fire wood for tonight. It doesn't make sense to collect it at night time." The boy answered.

Hanabi stood up, "I'll go with you to make sure that you're not attacked."

Ten-ten looked at the girl with a evil grin, "Is that really your reason for going with him?"

Hanabi snapped at what she was trying to imply, "Yes, would there be any other reason?"

Tenten eyes moved to the upper right corner; she then looked back at the Hyuuga, "None that I can think of."

"You guys should get going now. I expect you back here in twenty minutes. If you have not returned by then, we will be coming to look for you." Shizune said earning her a nod from both teens.

Tenten tapped Shizune, "She likes him so much that she doesn't even know it?"

Shizune put her hands to heart with a far away look in her eyes, "Young love; it is so sweet."

Konohamaru and Hanabi were walking in the forest collecting wood. Konohamaru looked at the girl who was gathering wood next to him. Hanabi, who knew he was looking at her, was getting annoyed and decided to speak, "Do you want something or what?"

Caught off guard, he stammered out, "Oh…it's nothing really."

"Since it's nothing, don't look at me like that. It makes me feel uncomfortable." Hanabi snapped at the Sarutobi.

"I'm sorry. Anyway, I think we have enough wood. Let's head back to the camp site." Hanabi followed the boy as he led the way back to the campsite. While walking behind him she was in the midst of thinking, "Why does he always look at me like that and why does it make me feel uncomfortable? It's just Konohamaru I shouldn't being feeling nervous or uncomfortable by a look he gives. Ok, I'm not nervous or uncomfortable, nope not at all. I'm just annoyed with the looks, that's it just annoyed. But they are different from every other look that I get. Everyone looks at me with envy or hate but when he looks at me it's…it's as if he cares about me or something. But why would he? I'm rude to him and I'm always insulting him."

Looking at the back of his head, a small smile graced her face, "One thing is for certain, you are weird." The two teens continued their trek to the campsite in complete silence.

Cloud Village…

Hiyayaka Aisu, the Raikage, was sitting at his desk looking at his strongest jounin, who was placed in charge of the three strongest genins in Cloud. The boy who was standing in the middle of the other two genins, who had black hair and ice blue eyes like himself, stared the Raikage straight in the eye.

The Raikage returned the look and spoke; "You all will be training for the Chuunin exams that will be held in Konoha in six months. I expect at least one of you to get to the finals. That will be your mission. Train for six months and at least one of you get to the finals."

The boy who favored the Raikage spoke, "Why must one of us advance to the finals? Is there a reason for this?"

"Yes. Since you're the genin squad that I am placing my faith in, I will let you in on the fact that we will be attacking the Leaf Village, with the aide of the Rock, the Rain, and the Mist Village. Your success guarantees me an invite to the finals. Does that answer your question, Reido?"

"Yes it does father." The son of the Raikage said with a full understanding of his father's intentions.

The Raikage spoke again, "You guys are dismissed. Kouen, I want to speak to you for a moment."

The group filed out of the room, leaving the Raikage and Kouen alone. Aisu asked, "What's the word from our allies?"

"Their soldiers should be arriving today. We will set sail tonight and arrive in Sea Country two nights from tonight. The Rain will lend us 100 soldiers, Rock, 200, Mist 100, and fifty of our own." Aisu leant back in his chair tapping his fingers together. The information that Kouen had given him was most pleasing. Kouen didn't think that they needed that many nins. He would have voiced his opinion on it but he knew the Raikage knew what he was doing so he didn't question it.

"Aisu-sama, are you going to fight Ryuho alone or will you require my aid?" Kouen asked.

Aisu narrowed his eyes at his jounin, "Don't you ever insult me like that again. Did you forget your station or do you think I am so weak now that you can match my power?"

Kouen didn't want his leader to misinterpret what he was trying to say; "I didn't mean anything by it sir. The reason I ask is because this is a mission and you said so yourself that we are to exterminate the Minashu clan. I want to know if you wanted to kill him as a way to honor his skill or to just kill him by any means."

"You should know better than anyone that I wouldn't disgrace someone of Ryuho's skill by having him attacked by a bunch of nins. No, I will fight that man because I acknowledge his skill. The only thing that I want you to do is eliminate the other clan members anyway you can. Ryuho will not suffer the fate of the rest; he will die by my blade and my blade alone. Is that understood?" Aisu said the last part in a tone that would have most nins pissing their pants, Kouen however wasn't most nins.

He bowed, "Crystal clear sir. If you will excuse me, I have to supervise the training of my squad."

"Very well, but before you go I want to say that I'm counting on you to get them ready for the Chuunin exams." Aisu said to his top jounin.

"Don't worry sir, I will not fail you. They all will be ready." Kouen exited the office leaving Aisu alone. The Raikage smiled, happy with the fact that his plans were coming to fruition. It was only a matter of time until he gets what he wants.

Local restaurant in Konoha…

Tsunade and Yumi were a eating and discussing Naruto. Yumi both women looked up when a bowl cut ninja, wearing a green leotard and jounin vest, accompanied by a pink haired medic nin interrupted their conversation. "Tsunade-sama, how are you today?"

She looked at her pink haired student, "I am good Sakura. Would you and Lee care to join us?"

Rock Lee spoke before Sakura could respond, "It would be a pleasure to join our great Hokage and Yumi-san."

"Why don't you guys grab a seat?" Tsunade suggested to the two Leaf nins.

Sakura sat next to Tsunade and Lee Sat next to Yumi. Sakura, who was sitting diagonally across from Yumi, looked at the girl and smiled, "Forgive me for being rude I didn't introduce myself, I am…"

"Haruno Sakura, I know who you are." Yumi finished.

"Oh…I guess Naruto told you about me huh?" Sakura asked.

"Yes he has. So you're a medic nin, it must be great to save lives and know you are able to help people feel better." Yumi stated to the pink haired young lady before her.

"It's great to help people. Thanks to Tsunade-sama's train I'm able to help those in need." Sakura informed the girl.

"Yumi-san, I haven't seen Naruto-kun in a while, do you know when he will be back?" Lee asked.

"Yumi shook her head, "I have no clue when he is due to return. But he's with the Minashu clan and from what he tells me about the clan there is nothing to be worried about; they are like his second family."

Tsunade leaned forward, "Did he tell you that?"

The brown hair green eyed girl responded "No, but you can tell the way he talks about them and how he lights up every time he talks about his little sister."

"You mean Hayami, am I right Yumi-san?" Sakura asked.

"Yes Sakura-san that is who I mean."

Lee held his fist in the air, "My youthful friend is spending time with his second family that is great for him. My friend has never had a family and to find a surrogate family is wonderful."

Yumi smiled at Lee's actions. After being around the guy for a week, his weirdness grew on her, "It is wonderful Lee. I can't wait to meet them. He said he was going to take me to meet them."

"You and Naruto are pretty serious I see." Sakura stated.

"Yes, Naruto and I plan on getting married soon and start a family. I'm all for the former, but the latter is something that I wish to wait for. We are both too young to be thinking about kids in my opinion. Anyway what about you Sakura, anybody that you are seeing? You and Lee look pretty close."

Lee spoke up before Sakura could, "Sakura and I aren't dating Yumi-san. The one who beat me out for her heart was the Uchiha."

Sakura noticed that boys in her graduating class and in Gai's team, almost always referred to Sasuke to as the Uchiha. "Lee-san, why do you always call Sasuke the Uchiha?"

Tsunade looked at her student then back at Rock Lee. She knew the reason why Lee, Shikamaru, Neji, Chouji, Shino, and Kiba referred to Sasuke as Uchiha. Each one of those boys was affected by the mission, whether it was a friend getting hurt or one of them getting hurt. Tsunade knew that Sakura didn't understand, to tell the truth she and everyone who wasn't involved with that mission really didn't know what happened. They knew from stories, but stories and actually being there is completely different.

Tsunade saw Lee stand up with a serious face, something that was rare for Rock Lee.

"Sakura-san, I understand you have feelings for Uchiha and I respect that, but what I refer to him as should not concern you."

"Lee, I just want to know why you and everyone else…" Lee cut her off.

"Forgive me for my rudeness Sakura-san, but I have training to do. Also, I value our friendship and I do not wish to say something that might be offensive to you. You ladies have a good day." Lee bowed then walked off.

Sakura looked at Tsunade confused, "Tsunade-sama, what do you think Lee meant by that?"

"Sakura, you might not want to see it but the mission to retrieve Sasuke has left them all bitter against Sasuke. The fact is they can't understand how someone as loyal as Naruto got banished while Sasuke, a traitor and make no mistake Sakura he is a traitor, is next in line to be Hokage. Sasuke may have redeemed himself, but they all hate the fact that he gets special treatment. I don't expect you to understand, but I would like you to see where they are coming from." Tsunade explained what she thought.

Yumi broke the silence, "Sasuke, he's the one Naruto fought at the Valley of The End and a while back, am I right?"

Sakura nodded, "Yes."

Yumi looked at the cup in front her, "Naruto once told me that he thought of Sasuke as a brother and as a best friend. He got angry when he discussed Sasuke. The way he described the battle between the two was intense. He told me he had a chance to bring Sasuke back but that way would have killed Sasuke. Naruto held back his attack, so he tells me." Sakura was feeling even guiltier about blaming Naruto for not bringing Sasuke back.

Looking up from the cup, she looked at Sakura, "Naruto also told me about you too. He told me that he used to like you but you always rejected him. I don't know what happened between you two but he got angry when he told me about you. He basically got angry when he talked about Team Seven and Konoha. I really hope he will be able to try and make peace with the village. I think him coming here is the first step to that."

"Maybe but who knows." Tsunade said with her hand under her chin. Yumi stood up; Tsunade gave her a curious look, "Are you leaving Yumi?"

"I promised Ayame that I would visit her at the ramen stand. Don't worry Tsunade-sama, I'm sure we will get to do this again." She turned to Sakura, "Sakura-san, I would like to also get to know you better if that's ok."

"I would like that Yumi." Sakura said smiling at the girl.

"Well I'm off. You ladies have a good day." Yumi walked off.

Sakura turned to the Hokage, "She seems nice. I can tell she cares for Naruto a lot."

"She really is a nice person. I'm glad that Naruto is with someone like her." Tsunade stood up a motioned for Sakura to follow, "Come Sakura, let's go to the hospital and do a few rounds."

"Ok Tsunade-sama." Sakura got up and followed the village's strongest female ninja to the hospital.

Tea Country 4 hours Later…

The charter boat Naruto was on stopped at Fishing Village in Tea Country. During the four hours, Naruto and Kaito caught up on each other's lives. The man known as the 'Golden Fox' knew that it was time to part ways with his sensei. The boat would set sail for Fire Country in ten minutes. Kaito and Naruto were on the docks saying their farewells. "I guess this is where we part ways Kaito-sensei. Where are you going now?"

"I'm off to see our mutual friend. I should have taking the other way to her place, but I had to shake some hunter nins without causing a scene. Cutting through this Country to get to her place is definitely the long way but like I said it couldn't be helped. Anyway, Fox you take care of yourself. Something tells me that I will be seeing you soon."

"For some reason I believe you are right. Well I guess I will see you later sensei." Naruto extended his arm with his hand balled up in a fist. Kaito looked at the fist for a second then did the same as Naruto until their fist made contact.

"Later Fox." Kaito walked away from his student on his way to see Naiya.

The captain informed everyone that the boat would be leaving in a minute. Naruto boarded the boat once again. Seeing a lot of people on the deck, Naruto was hoping that his spot wasn't taken. Lucky for him the spot was still free. Naruto went to the spot and looked at the sea as the boat glided across the water. In a couple of hours he would be at his intended destination.

Back in the Cloud…

The ninjas that Aisu had asked for from his allies were in the village. He had them gathered inside of a building in the village. It was an auditorium that was suited to fit a large number such as the one before him. Standing at the podium, with Kouen on his right and Caadan on his left, He raised his hand to silence the group. "You all know why you are here. You are here to aid in the destruction of the Minashu clan. I know a lot of you have issues with that clan, based on what transpired a year ago involving the head of the clan's daughter and a couple of your friends, family, and lovers. I know the person you all wish to go after is none other than Uzumaki Naruto."

The group of Rock and Rain nins exploded at the mentioning of Naruto. Ryuho raised his hands to silence them, "However, he is under the protection of the Leaf so getting to him will be impossible. This is why I offer you the next best thing. If you can't kill him, destroy those he sees as family. We sit sail later on tonight and we should arrive in Sea Country in two days. I know you all want to exact vengeance. I give you the opportunity to do so. I will say this…whoever wishes to leave and want no part of this then do so, but whoever lost someone to the Uzumaki Naruto and wish to exact revenge then your opportunity lies with me. Who's with me?"

The crowd let out a loud roar showing their allegiance. Aisu smiled, these fools didn't realize they were mere pawns in his plan. He really didn't care for Naruto, sure the guy was strong but he saw him as no threat, which is why he put Kouen in charge of the task of taking him on. Ryuho was a different story altogether. His true purpose was to obtain Heaven's Blade. He didn't wish to use it; in fact he knew it was impossible for him to use it if the story about the blade were true. No, he just wanted to keep it in his possession away from others. Once Ryuho was out of the way then he would use the Chuunin exams to take down Senzairu. With Those two threats out of the way, he could crush the Leaf and its allies.

Kouen leaned over to whisper in his ear, "It seems like they ate it up. You are cruel Aisu-sama."

"It has nothing to do with being cruel, I offer them an opportunity and they are willing to take it; I just so happen to be getting what I want in the process." Aisu said while looking at the crowd. The Raikage eyes went to a ninja who walked down the aisle and up the stage toward him. The ninja whisper into his ear, "Sir, we got word that Moretsu Kihouin and his followers are all dead. Scouts in the area discovered their bodies. Nothing is definite but one of our medic nins said after taking one look at their body they were dead for about a week."

"I want you to meet me in my office in ten minutes." The nin nodded and headed off. Aisu turned his attention back to the crowd, "My guest, we leave at nine tonight. Please, enjoy all of the luxuries that my village has to offer. The restaurants and the bars will be free to all of you. You all are free to go; I hope you enjoy your time here in Cloud." Everyone started to get up and head for the exits. Aisu looked at Kumoko, Roba, and Daki. They knew that look meant he wanted to see them in his office. They followed him Kouen and Caadan as they exited through an entrance on the side of the stage.

Ten minutes later, everyone including the nin who had informed him of the news were sitting before him. "So you're telling me Kihouin was killed. It must have been a skilled nin to kill him."

Kouen was the next to speak, "Well it looks like we won't have back up if a few of the clan members slip our grasp and get into Fire Country. If any of us are caught by Leaf nins the Hokage will attack, defeating the ultimate goal."

"It doesn't matter they were a fail safe plan. I don't intend on letting anyone escape." Aisu stated to everyone in the room.

The ninja who informed him of Kihouin's death looked at the Raikage, "Sir from the reports, he was killed with kunai embedded into the side of his neck. His death tells us that the Leaf has upped its border patrol."

"Have the scouts return to the village. I don't want my plan ruined before it moves to the last phase." Aisu ordered the nin. He bowed and exited the office.

Kumoko spoke, "Aisu-sama, what do you want us to do?"

"Nothing; I want you five to get ready for tonight."

"Sir speaking hypothetically, let's say if a few escape and head towards Fire Country, what do you want us to do?"

"Eliminate them before they get within range of Fire Country. But that will be hard to do because they will have to get out of Sea Country and the only way is by water. Don't worry nothing will go wrong." Aisu said assuring Cadaan.

Fire Country 2 hours later…

Naruto was walking down the road towards the southern gate of Konoha. He could see the Hokage monuments from where he was. The blond ninja walked for a good ten minutes before reaching the gate. The guard stopped Naruto at the gate, "Name and reason for entering?"

"Uzumaki Naruto and I'm hired help." Naruto said to the guards.

The guards knew who he was and his reason for being there but it was protocol. They let him pass and Naruto continued into the village. He still received glares from the older generation but it really didn't matter because he was going to see Yumi. He was heading for the hotel when an Anbu squad appeared before him. "Uzumaki Naruto, Hokage-sama requests your presences at the tower."

"I'm only in the village for five minutes and she knows I'm here. I'm impressed. Lead the way." Naruto and the Anbu squad disappeared out of sight only to reappear in the Hokage's office a minute later.

Sitting at her desk, Tsunade dismissed the Anbu squad and offered Naruto a seat. He removed the sword from his back so he could sit down. He placed the sword on his lap. Tsunade looked at the sword then back at Naruto, "I see you passed the trials, congratulations."

"Thanks. What do you want Oba-chan?" Naruto asked.

"I know you want to see Yumi, she's interesting and very nice young lady by the way. What she sees in an arrogant, over confidant, loud mouth like you is beyond me. Anyway, I just wanted to tell you that I want you to meet me at my house at six tomorrow morning. I will escort you personally to the Namikaze house. I really wanted to know about your trials, but you seem bored. So go, I expect you to tell me what happened tomorrow." Tsunade said motioning with her hands for him to leave. Naruto got and placed the sword on his back. He headed out of the office. Tsunade was grinning, "Looks like Jiraiya will be giving me some money." The Hokage then got a serious look on her face "Something isn't right. Every time I win a bet it means danger is on the horizon or something bad is going to happen. I wonder what kind of bad thing is going to happen." She put her feet up on the desk and pondered on what was next to come.

Yumi and Ayame was talking and laughing at jokes. Ayame was telling Yumi a joke which caused her to burst out in laughter. "I swear, that is the funniest thing I have ever heard Ayame."

"It was funny when I heard it. So have you got any plans for tomorrow?"

Yumi was about to say no but a voice answered for her, "Well I had planned on spending time with her but if she wants to hang with you instead then I guess its ok."

Recognizing that voice the girl turned around to be greeted by a smiling Naruto, "Naruto-kun." She jumped out of her seat and gave him a tight hug. When she finished hugging him she started to check him over to make sure he was ok, "You're not hurt are you? For the last couple of days you were in pain weren't you? What happened that would cause you to feel that much pain?"

Naruto gave her a weird look, "She could feel I was in pain?" Naruto placed a hand on her cheek, "A lot happened, but it's ok because I'm perfectly fine now. The pain that I went through was because the sword on my back. It's a special sword that requires harsh trials to get it. I will tell you more about everything tonight, tell me what happened while I was away."

Yumi didn't want to tell Naruto about what happened so she lied, "Nothing really. Ayame has been keeping me company.

"Yumi, you and Naruto get out of here. I will talk to you later." Ayame said to the couple.

Naruto waved her off, "I don't intend on leaving, not when I haven't had some of your ramen. So Ayame-neechan, if you will fix my favorite?"

Naruto took a seat; Yumi sat back in her seat. Ayame came back with a big ball of ramen and placed in front of Naruto. "I don't think this will be enough for you, but it is a start."

Naruto began to drool as he looked at the bowl with noodles, chicken, eggs, and beef in it. "Itadakimasu" Naruto consumed the contents of the bowl like there was no tomorrow.

Yumi looked on in disgust while Ayame just laughed, "its sure good to have you back in this village. I haven't seen anyone pig out quite like you."

Naruto picked up the bowl and tilted to his mouth to let the broth spill into his mouth. When he was finished with the broth he sat the bowl down and let out a loud burp. Yumi wanted to lecture him on manners but decided against it. Instead she was just happy that he was ok.

Across town in a local bar…

Anko, Yamato, Genma, and Senzairu were all sitting at a table having drinks. Anko was telling them in detail about her team and her test, which they believed was torture. "I feel sorry for your squad Anko, you are too cruel."

"A little pain never hurt anybody, besides they can't handle what I throw at them how can they call themselves shinobi?" Anko said to her senbon chewing friend.

"So Senzairu, what type of test did you give your squad?" Genma asked.

"I gave them a bell test with one bell. Not as cruel as Anko's method of evaluation, but effective."

"So did they pass your test or what?" Anko asked out of curiosity.

The hokage's son gave her a smirk that seemed to answer their question, "Yes they did. It seems that the one dubbed the dead-last got them to work together as a team. Even though they showed that they work well together, the fact is that they need more training. I plan to make them wish they never were ninjas."

Genma gave him sideways look, "You're almost as cruel as Anko. Well it's a good thing that my team failed; now I don't have to worry about training snot nose brats."

"I think it is going to be fun to train the future generation." Yamato added.

"Maybe, but not that much talent in this graduating class so you guys got your work cut out for you?" Genma told Anko, Senzairu, and Yamato.

Anko looked at the golden brown eyed man known as the Hokage son then at the man who was the only one in the village who could use wood jutsus. She turned to Genma with a smirk on her face, "I love a good challenge."

He sucked his teeth, "You are a sadist at heart aren't you Anko?"

Anko put the index finger of her left hand on the bottom of her lip and gave Genma and angelic, "Who little ole me? I would never I am the sweetest person in the world. I'm disappointed that you would say such a thing."

Genma closed his eyes reveal a slight smile, "You are too much Anko you know that?"

Anko just gave him a wide grin. Genma noticed that Yuugao walked in the bar dressed in civilian attire. He waved his hand to get her attention, "Yuugao, hey come and join us."

The purple haired girl looked at her friend signaling for her to come over. When she approached the table she was greeted by everyone. Genma offered her a seat next to him and she kindly took it. "How was your mission, Yuugao?" Yamato asked politely.

"Boring and uneventful Yamato-taichou." She informed the former Anbu captain.

"Please, just call me Yamato, Yuugao-san. I'm no longer a member of Anbu."

She understood where he was coming from. She looked at Senzairu, "Senzairu-san, how was your day, good I presume?"

"Yes, it was pretty good; How about yours?" He asked

She let out a sigh, "Like I said to Yamato-san, it was boring and the mission was something that chuunin could have done. So what are you guys doing here?"

"Celebrating." Anko answered.

"Really, why?"

Senzairu spoke, "Well Anko, Yamato, and I all have our own genin squad. Genma over here is celebrating with us because he is glad that his squad didn't pass."

She stifled a laugh while looking at Genma, "Your just being lazy again Genma-san aren't you?"

He looked away, "No comment."

Everyone at the table laughed at the jounin who wore his forehead protector backwards and covering his whole head. Senzairu looked at the clock on the far wall of the bar and noticed he had planned on meeting his mother soon. "Well looks like its time for me to go; I have to head to the Hokage tower. I will see you guys later."

Yuugao stood up at the same time, "I guess we can walk together, I have to turn in my mission report."

"Ok, well everyone else, I will see you guys later." The two jounins exited the bar leaving behind their friends, who continued talking about various things going on.

Senzairu and Yuugao continued to walk down the road that lead to the Hokage tower. He looked at the women, "So you're Anbu, what is it like?"

She turned her head to face him. The excitement on her face was visible when she started to speak, "It's exciting at first, but it gets dull very fast. I like the missions that we as Anbu have to receive. If you don't mind me asking, where were you for the last eighteen years?"

Senzairu looked of into the distance with a serious expression on his face, "I'd rather not talk about it." He turned back to the young woman, "The good thing is that I'm back home." He turned a looked at the Hokage monument and a small smile graced his lips, "I missed this place during my time away. There is no place like home Yuugao-san. I'm really glad I'm back with my family, old friends, and new friends."

The female blushed at his comment. Senzairu glanced up the street to see Naruto and Yumi walking towards him and Yuugao. Senzairu strain to see the handle of the sword that was on Naruto's back. He was happy inside when he recognized the sword, "I see you have done it."

Naruto recognized the man. But the last time he saw him he was wearing a black cloak instead of a Leaf Shinobi uniform. "I see a lot has happened while I was gone. So you were reinstated I see?"

"So where are you off to now Naruto?" He asked.

"Nowhere really, Yumi and I are just walking around you know. What about you, are you on a date with her?" Naruto pointed at Yuugao. The two both looked away blushing. The Anbu captain spoke up, "No Naruto, we are not on a date. We both have business with the Hokage so we are merely walking to the tower together."

Naruto looked at the purpled hair female for a long minute. He recognized that voice and that hair color. She was feeling uncomfortable with his gaze. "Is there something wrong?"

Yumi gave him a weird look. She knew something was on his mind, she would find out later. Naruto blinked coming back to reality, "No, there is nothing wrong. So I guess we will be leave you guys to what you were doing." Naruto and Yumi walked off leaving Senzairu behind with Yuugao.

Both were looking at the two walk off. Yuugao wondered why he gave her a long look. She decided not to stress too much over it. She turned to see Senzairu still looking at Naruto, "Are you ready to go?"

"Yeah, let's go." The two headed to the Hokage tower. Both thinking about what the blond boy said. "Are you two on a date?" Senzairu was replaying what Naruto said. "Why would he think we were on a date people walk together all the time."

Yuugao thoughts were similar "Date? He is a nice guy but can't two people just walk together and enjoy each other's company? Wait did I think enjoy? No, that can't be right. No need to stress over this, he just asked if we were on a date that is all. Nothing wrong with him asking that right?" The two looked at each other than immediately looked away.

About a half and hour later, Naruto and Yumi were sitting on top of the fourth's head looking at the sun go down. Sitting with her back against his chest, she leant her head back and rested it in the crook of his neck. "Sunsets are always beautiful. This is a nice spot you picked."

"It's my favorite spot in this village. I use to come up here all of the time with Sandaime Hokage." Naruto informed the girl in his arms.

"Well this is definitely a one of the most tranquil place in the village. The trial was painful for you wasn't it?" She asked with concern in her voice.

"Yes it was. I had to re-live my worst experiences in life, and there were a lot. I also had to fight with limited movement and I also had to fight my sensei with the fox telling me how inferior I am and that I need his power."

Yumi place her hand on his jaw, "Well I guess that demon doesn't know how strong you are."

"To tell you the truth, I was going to draw on his power but I wanted to see what I could do. Using the Kyuubi's chakra is one thing, but becoming dependant on it is completely another. The test dealing with the Kyuubi and the test that limit my movement were great compared to the one where I experience the horrible events of my childhood."

She looked into his eyes, "How did you get through it?"

Naruto begin to explain, "Well the test was me confronting the darkness within me. My darker side was trying to consume me I guess. But I realized that even though I am hated by many in this village, I have people who love me for me that and is better than wanting revenge. Don't get me wrong, I hate how I was treated but I if gave into my darker side then everyone I care about would suffer. You, Hayami, and everyone that I hold dear got me through that test. If it wasn't for you all, I would have failed."

Yumi didn't respond. She continued to look of into the sunset while in Naruto's arms. Naruto leant in closer to her, "Yumi, three days from now we are going to Sea Country. I want you to meet Ryuho-sensei, Kaori-kaasan, and Hayami."

"I think that's great Naruto, I can't wait to meet them. Especially Hayami, I can't wait to meet that cute little girl." Yumi said with excited about meeting the Minashu clan.

"She said the same thing. I can't wait to introduce you to the Kaori-kaasan, Hayami, and Ryuho-sensei. I know they are going to like you." Naruto said to his wife to be.

"I hope so Naruto-kun."

"You don't have to hope so, I know so." Naruto and Yumi continued to watch the sunset over the horizon. Feeling happy, she for the fact that he was back and no longer in pain and Naruto for the fact that she was in his arms and she would be meeting his family. As far as he was concerned, life couldn't get better.

Cloud 1hour and a half later…

Aisu was standing on the high deck of the ship with Kouen and Kumoko to his right, and Cadaan, Daki, and Roba to his left. Standing before him on the huge ship was close to 500 nins. He looked from side to side. "Shinobi and Kunoichi's, I just want to say that it will be a pleasure to work with you all. I would also like you to meet the second in command Kouen. My third in command are the lovely Kunochi beside Kouen, Kumoko and the man on my right Cadaan. The two on the side of Cadaan will be fourth in command. You will follow their orders unless I specify other wise. Also, I want you all to discard your forehead protectors. I don't want any of our villages linked to this attack. I will say this to you all, have fun and leave no survivors; I mean none what so ever. The "Golden Fox" will pay for what he has done to you all in blood."

The crowd let out a loud cheer. Kumoko smiled at the crowd. She knew that they were mere pawns, helping towards the grander scheme of things. She took out a picture of the clan heads daughter that was received from Rain intelligence during the time they abducted her. She looked at the little girl and gave an evil grin, "To eliminate those many nins for you, he must hold you dare to his heart. I will enjoy handing him your head personally." She put the picture back in her pocket; a wicked smile graced her face. She would have her revenge soon; the man who killed her father will feel what she feels. He would feel the pain of losing someone.

A/N

OMG! The Minashu Clan is about to be attacked. What will happen? Will they survive or will they be slaughtered? Will Naruto and Yumi arrive during the attacks or what? Will Kumoko claim Hayami's head?