Chapter 20: The Path to Strength
Chapter 20: Mastering the Art
Chapter 20: The Path to Strength
4:30 am Naiya's home…
Naruto went to sleep an hour after he arrived at Naiya's place. The seal mistress, who was up and about, preparing for Hinata's training at 5 am, had informed him that she would re-create the kunai that had the Hiraishin symbol. She knew about the technique and it was fairly simple to her, well as far as the seal part went. The other part of technique was still a mystery, even to her. She didn't know how her teammate did it, but she knew one thing: it wasn't easy.
She would need about two vacutainers of Naruto's blood. Naruto had also asked Naiya if she could place the seal on Heaven's blade as well. She told him that she would try. Naiya was looking over the lesson she had prepared for Hinata, thinking about it only being a week and 4 or 5 days, she couldn't quite remember, but in that short time Hinata was doing well. The girl was a natural. If her progression continued, Hinata would be ready to learn how to remove the curse seal. Naiya couldn't watch over Hinata's training today, she would take that time to make the 100 or so kunai Naruto requested and have them ready for Hiraishin use. "Maybe I should show the kid how to design them himself? I'm surprised that Minato didn't leave behind a scroll. Well, I guess he must have thought it was simple enough or that he would be around to teach Naruto. Either way, I will show him how to do it." Naiya continued to look through scrolls that she wanted Hinata to read.
Hinata was getting dressed in her training gear. She wore the same training outfit Naiya gave her; the only difference is that the color of this outfit was navy blue. Hinata decided to let her long, midnight-colored hair hang. She exited her room, only to bump into Naruto, who was dressed in all black; he was wearing a tank top, sweats, and sandals, and Heaven's Blade was strapped to his back.
The girl spoke to get his attention, "Naruto-kun."
He turned to face Hinata and said, "Hey Hinata, why are you up so early?"
"My training with Naiya-sensei starts at 5 am everyday. We train till 8 pm. I have to meet sensei and get the details of what I'm going to be working on today." Hinata answered her crush.
"Oh, well I guess I will see you later then," said Naruto as he continued to head outside.
"Naruto-kun, can I ask you a question?" Hinata said causing the young man to turn back around.
"It hurts… not being able to do anything doesn't it?" Hinata waited for a response but got nothing. Naruto just continued to stare the girl down. She took a step closer, "My mother… was killed when I was 6. I was so helpless and there was nothing I could do. At first I blamed myself and father… he doesn't say it but deep down I think he blames me as well."
Naruto looked at Hinata and reassured her, "You didn't do nothing wrong. You were a child and for your father to blame you for your mothers death is wrong. I realized yesterday it wasn't my fault that everyone was killed. I just wish I could have done something."
The girl understood where he was coming from completely and said in agreement, "Sometimes I wish the same thing."
Naruto spoke in a soft concerned voice and said, "Hinata, how was your mother killed, if you don't mind me asking?"
"We were on a diplomatic mission in Fire Country. After the meeting with the Daimyo and a few other officials, mother took me for some ice cream. Mother told me to wait outside while she ran in the store to get some cake for Hanabi. On our way back home with a few escorts, we were surrounded by a group of ninja from the Cloud. Outnumbered, the group killed off the ninja with us and Kasaan gave her life making sure I got away. I watched as a sword pierced through my mother's heart. I ran back to mother, but I was knocked into a tree, which caused me to black out. When I woke up, I was in Konoha. From that day forth, father never treated me the same." Hinata wiped the tears from her eyes. That particular memory was hard to get over, but she no longer blamed herself.
"Your mother gave her life to protect what she believed to be precious to her. She died so you could live, Hinata. Her sacrifice… was noble and out of love. I'm sure you would do the same thing for someone precious to you; I know I would. Your mother gave her life to protect you, and my father gave his life for the village. I guess we have that in common, one of our parents each giving their life so we could live." Naruto said, while giving the girl a reassuring smile.
"I guess," replied Hinata as her eyes went wide with realization. Naruto said his father gave his life protecting the village; but if that was true, then that would mean, "The Yondaime…the Yondaime, is your father?"
Naruto nodded. Hinata couldn't believe what she was hearing. Here was the son of the Fourth, the village's greatest hero, yet he was an outcast in the village his father saved. "If the Yondaime is your father, doesn't anyone else know and why does everyone hate you when your father saved the village? It doesn't make any sense!"
"It makes perfect sense." Hinata turned around to see her sensei speaking. "Naruto's father died protecting the village from the Nine-Tails, but I'm sure that your history books don't tell you what truly happened that day."
Hinata looked at Naiya, "What are you talking about? The Fourth defeated the Nine-Tails, how is that a lie? Why would our village lie to us?"
Naiya looked at Naruto, "I think it would be better if she heard it from you, rather than me." She then turned to Hinata, "I will say this… there were two heroes that day."
Hinata looked at Naruto, "Naruto-kun, what is she talking about?"
"Hinata, the stories everyone was told are false. The Yondaime didn't kill the fox, he merely sealed it away. He sealed it in the body of a boy, with the hopes that he would be seen as a hero. My father sealed the Kyuubi within me."
As her eyes widened from the even greater revelation, Hinata didn't know what to say. Naruto waited for her reaction. When she looked up, he could see tears forming in her lavender eyes, "Two heroes, one fated to be celebrated while the other to be shunned. Your father sacrificed his only son to save us and you are the one who keeps the fox at bay, yet they all hated you for it. I never understood why father or anyone else didn't like you for that matter and now I know why." The girl, acting on impulse, grabbed his hand, "Both of us, we didn't fit in with anyone. But, I was too shy to be your friend, or anyone else's friend. I'm sorry Naruto-kun; I could have made the loneliness more bearable."
Naruto gently removed her hand, "It's not a big deal Hinata. I can't change the past. What's done is done. I have to make sure that the future is the way I want it. I have training to tend to. Naiya, how long will it take to have the kunai ready?"
"It will take about two to three days. I could have it all done today, but I have other things to do. The sword I can do later in the week." Naiya informed Naruto.
"Thank you, Naiya." Naruto said.
"Yeah, yeah. Hinata, you have training to do. I won't be around to supervise your training, but I trust you to do what needs to be done. Naruto, you are welcome to use the backyard. I will see you all at noon, later."
When Naiya left, Naruto and Hinata were alone in the hallway. "Naruto-kun, I just want you to know that you are my hero. I admired you for never giving up and having the courage to pick yourself up when you fall down; I never could do that. But, now learning that you had to also carry a burden out of your realm, well … it makes me feel that I can do anything. I will see you after my training, Naruto-kun." Hinata walked away, leaving Naruto to ponder what she said.
"She believes that believing in me, means she can do anything? I'm not special, why would she even think that? I shouldn't think on it too much, I have to go read these scrolls before I start training." Naruto headed towards the library.
Konoha, 8 am…
Yumi, who has been at the hospital all night with the girl, looked up when the door opened, revealing Sakura. Sakura waved, "Hello, Yumi-san."
Yumi gave a weak reply, "Hello, Sakura-san."
Sakura looked around to find no Naruto, "Where is Naruto?"
Yumi looked away, "He left."
"Oh… I'm sure he'll be back real soon. Just seeing yesterday, I know he cares for the girl. I wonder when though…" Sakura placed her hand on her chin while looking at the ceiling, trying to figure out when her former teammate would return.
"He's not coming back anytime soon," Yumi said, causing Sakura to raise her eyebrow at the girl.
"What do you mean that he's not coming back?" Sakura asked.
Yumi looked at the girl with a serious expression, "Exactly what I said."
"But, why? That's not like Naruto – not like Naruto at all!"
"What would you know about Naruto anyway?" Yumi elevated her voice slightly. When she saw the shocked expression on Sakura's face, she put her head down, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean it. It's just that… it's just…"
Sakura walked over and pulled up a chair next to the girl, "It's just what?"
"I don't understand Naruto sometimes. I don't understand what is to be a ninja, or a warrior for that matter and it creates a gap between us. I'm not like you, Sakura-san, you know what it is to be a ninja and you can relate to Naruto, you can even understand his logic for leaving, but I just don't. I know he has reasons, but I just can't help but be angry at him for abandoning Hayami and me. Could he not have gotten stronger by training here?" Yumi asked, hoping the girl could shed some light.
"So, Naruto has left to train, I wonder if Tsunade-sama knows of this?" Sakura looked at Hayami, who looked peaceful and smiled, "Naruto operates on his ninja code… I believe it was…" Yumi answered for Sakura, "never going back on his word."
"Yes, that's it. You see, it's his ninja way. Naruto will die to keep his promise, if that's what it takes. I think he did this for her and for you." Sakura looked back at Yumi and smiled.
"Did this for us? He could have stayed here, I know that's what I wanted, it's what Hokage-sama wanted, and it's what Hayami would have wanted. It seems selfish to me." Yumi said to the pink-haired kunochi.
Sakura shook her head, "It's not selfish. Naruto did what he felt he had to do. If my guesses are right, I think he wants to detach himself from you guys. I know it sounds cruel, but if he is to get stronger, he can't worry about you guys. I hate to say this, because I know it will only make you feel bad, but Naruto made the right decision. If he's worrying about you guys and something happening, then his training will probably be ineffective, or at least I think he believes that. Everyone has a path they must follow; Naruto believes this is the path he must follow. I know you're not a ninja, but honestly I think you are one of the best things that happened to Naruto." "In fact, I'm kind of jealous of your relationship. The way you two interact and have fun, it's something to be envied." Sakura thought, hoping that a certain Uchiha would interact with her more.
Yumi rose from her seat Sakura, "I understand. Sakura-san, I'm going to my room to wash up, I will be back later." Yumi got up and proceeded to exit the room. When she got to the door, she stopped and turned to Sakura, "Sakura, thanks for helping me see logic through the eyes of a ninja. I still don't understand certain things, but I'm glad you could give me some insight."
"Don't mention it." Sakura waved her off. Yumi exited the room leaving Sakura and Hayami all alone. Sakura got up and walked over to the girl. She looked the girl up and down and decided to do a routine check. "Still in a coma, but it seems Shizune-sempai has done an excellent job with her scar. In a few weeks, it will fade into nothing. Her breathing is regular, heart seems fine. She seems okay. Let's check her spleen, huh?" Sakura was caught of guard by the girls mumbling. "Mommy, Daddy, Shinji-nii, Naruto nii-san, help me. The mean lady wants to…" The girls mumbling stopped. Sakura looked at the girl. "It seems like she was having a dream and talking out loud. She may wake up soon. Well, I have to go. I will be back later to see how she is doing." Sakura exited the room, leaving the girl behind.
Across the hall, Shinji was in the room with Tsunade and Jiraiya. Sakura entered the room; a little surprised to see her sensei there. "Tsunade-sama, I thought you were at the office."
"I'm allowed to leave every now and again, Sakura. After all, I am the Hokage," Tsunade said to her pupil.
"I didn't mean anything by it, I just didn't expect you to be here, that's all; you either Jiraiya-sama. So… what's this I hear about Naruto leaving the village?"
"He left the village?" A shocked Shinji said, causing Tsunade and Jiraiya to turn their attention back to the man.
"Yes, he said he needed to train in seclusion," Tsunade responded.
"And you let that idiot go? He might be half-way to Lightning Country by now," Shinji stated.
Jiraiya spoke, "I don't think so. Naruto seemed pretty serious about training. I have an idea where he's at and well I refuse to say. I guess we will see him in six months."
Shinji, who was sitting up looked at Tsunade, "When will I be free to leave this place?"
"In a couple more days, but I'm curious… do you have anywhere to stay?" Tsunade asked.
"No, but I don't plan on staying in the village. When I'm healed enough, I plan to track the guy responsible for my clan's demise." Shinji informed the Hokage.
Jiraiya shook his head, "What the hell is wrong with you young people, thinking you can take on the world alone? It's nonsense! You won't get near him, he's the leader of a powerful village and he happens to be out of your league."
A thought came to Tsunade while the two were talking, "I got a proposal for you Shinji."
"And what type of proposal is it?" Shinji asked, with a slightly elevated brow.
"I want you to fight with Konoha. In six months, we will be attacked by the very guy who killed your uncle. You will have six months to train. It beats facing the Raikage at your current level. What do you say, Shinji?"
"Okay, that sounds like a decent proposal. I'm in," Shinji replied.
Tsunade was glad. From what Kakashi told her in his report, the guy he felt two powerful chakra sources, both stronger than his own. She was glad that Shinji was on the Leaf's side, this would prove helpful to the Leaf. The other power Kakashi told her about concerned her. Kakashi informed her that it was demonic. According to Kakashi, he felt the weird chakra coming from the blue-haired Cloud-nin that they met in the Mist. Tsunade and Kakashi both knew what it meant, the Cloud has a Jinchuriki.
Tsunade shook herself from her thoughts, "I'm glad you plan to stay. You, Hayami, Mai, and Yumi will be staying with me."
Sakura interrupted, "I have to give Shinji his medicine." Sakura prepared the needle, and then injected Shinji in his arm. "Well, that's done. I have more things to tend to. I will be by later to check on you. Tsunade-sensei, Jiraiya-sama." The two sannin waved the girl goodbye. Tsunade decided it was time she head to the council room for their meeting. "Well Jiraiya, I leave Shinji in your hands. Don't make the boy a pervert, okay. I will be by later Shinji, see you soon." The Hokage then exited the room, leaving the two men alone.
Shinji motioned for Jiraiya to come close. "Jiraiya, I am a big fan of Icha Icha Paradise. I've been trying so hard to get the latest volume, but it has been sold out for weeks. This hospital gets boring, you wouldn't happen to have a copy of it would you?"
"Sorry Shinji, I don't have it." Shinji put his head down in defeat.
Jiraiya went through his gi and tossed a book on Shinji's lap. "I don't know if it will help, but that's the author's edition of volume 12, it's to be released next month. Consider yourself lucky that I like you, kid."
Shinji was ecstatic. "You are a GOD Jiraiya-sama! I can't believe this is the author's copy!"
"It's a bit more graphic, but it will be my best seller yet. Enjoy, I have to go. I will see you later. Take care, Shinji." Shinji didn't even see or care when Jiraiya left. He had an exclusive version of Icha Icha Paradise Volume 12. This would definitely pass the time in the hospital, definitely.
Cloud Village, 10 am…
After the attack a day and some hours ago, the Raikage was walking through the Raikage's Tower, heading towards his office. Wearing his Raikage garbs, with bandages under them to help heal the wound caused by Ryuho, Aisu was meeting with four captains of the Black Operations Lightning's Tactics and Stealth Special Forces, also known as BOLT. Konoha had ANBU, the Mist: the Seven Swordsman, and Lightning had BOLT. A BOLT squad consisted of 1 captain and 5 team members, adding up to six members in a squad. Aisu walked into his office to the four captains that he called for; their identities were covered behind masks that were similar to Konoha's ANBU, except everyone's mask was black with a gray design. The outfit was different as well. Wearing long-sleeve, black tunics, with the Cloud symbol and a Lightning Bolt coming from it on a circle patch which lay on the right arm; the outfit consisted of black sweat pants, smoke gray sandals and a matching color vest that was similar to ANBU's. Two katanas, forming an "x" completed the outfit.
Aisu took his seat. He looked at the captain on his far right with the bear mask, "I called you all here for a specific reason. You four are captains of the most effective squads in BOLT. I have a task for you; however, it involves only one target. Your squads will be hunting this target down. When the target is found, I want it destroyed."
The captain wearing a Hawks mask on his far right decided to speak, "So, who is the target that you wish for us to hunt, Raikage-sama?"
Aisu placed his arms on the desk and leaned forward, giving the captain a serious look. "Uzumaki Naruto."
The captain wearing a weasel mask on the center right spoke, "'The Golden Fox', if I must ask… why is he the target?"
"I have my reasons, but if you must know he is a threat to my plans. I want him eliminated. Also, bring back his Sword. Your mission begins now. Locate your squads and head out. You all are dismissed."
Aisu leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes. "Change of plans Kouen. You're just going to have to deal with it."
Kouen, who was standing in front of the Raikage voiced his opinion, "Sir, leave Naruto to me, BOLT is not necessary."
"If they fail to locate him, which I highly doubt, you will have your chance. For now worry about your other assignment, Uchiha Sasuke. The Uchiha Bloodline is to be feared and it's better to wipe the clan out of existence. I dealt with Uchiha Itachi, and if Uchiha Itachi is any indication of what Sasuke was capable of, then he could be a problem. The Uchiha must be dealt with, which is why I'm leaving it to you. Uzumaki became something more the moment he obtained that blade," Aisu said to his number one soldier.
Kouen bowed, "Very well sir. Here is my mission report; I have to return to my squad. You have a good day, sir."
Kouen left the office. If anyone was in the hall with him and to see the look in his eyes, they would have shit their pants. Pissed was the only word to describe what he was feeling. "Uzumaki Naruto is still my target, to hell with what he says and to hell with Uchiha Sasuke. I will battle that man; nothing will stand in the way of that, not even you, Aisu-sama." Kouen exited the building; heading to his squad.
Back in the Raikage's office, Aisu was wearing an evil smirk. "It seems that I will need a stronger leash to control you, eh Kouen?"
Noon in Konoha
Tsunade and the council were in the meeting room. Tsunade spoke first, "Good afternoon everyone. We are here to talk about the upcoming war and the recent destruction of the Minashu clan."
Hiashi spoke, "Yes, let's talk about the Minashu clan. I understand that there are only two survivors. One is the little girl that Uzumaki stormed through two Countries for and the other is the son of Shinshiro. I understand the Raikage was behind this."
"Yes, but it seemed to be a joint-strike with their allies." Tsunade answered.
"What actions are we taking to protect the Leaf, Hokage-sama?" Inuzuka Tsume asked.
"I have increased border patrols and my strategists and I are coming up with tactical plans. Danzou, however, believes that we shouldn't wait until the exams, we should take our forces and storm Cloud." Tsunade informed Tsume and the rest of the council.
Homura turned his head slightly to Tsunade, "I'm inclined to agree with Danzou. I believe there will be another repeat of Orochimaru. We don't know how strong this guy is, but if he beat Minashu Ryuho, then he is not to be taken lightly. Strength-wise he might be ready; however, Sasuke needs a few more years to develop his leadership skills to run this village."
Tsunade narrowed her eyes at the old man, "If I didn't know any better, I would have just thought you think I will die."
"That's not it, but we do need to take precautions to protect even you Tsunade. You may be highly skilled, but even you are mortal." Homura said, hoping she understood.
"So, you wish to send hundreds off to their death? Are you fucking nuts?" Tsunade said as she slammed her hand on the table.
"Language, Tsunade," Koharu said in a calm voice.
This caused Tsunade to turn to her, "I'm the Hokage, I say what the hell I want when the hell I want. You old fools are idiots. For one, if we do that we give them geographical advantage. They know that country like the back of their hand; we would be fighting an uphill battle."
"Tsunade-sama is right." Everyone turned to Shikaku
"Explain..." Tsuki said to the man.
"We'd lose our geographical advantage by attacking the Hidden Cloud Village. However, here in Konoha we gain that, because we know the ins and outs of this village. They would sorely be at a disadvantage. We can make a final stand and deliver a crushing blow to the Cloud" Explained Shikaku.
"I guess you're right when you say it that way. However, we have the Nine-Tails kid. We unleash him, I'm sure we can come out victorious." Kataki Waga stated.
Koharu looked at Tsunade, "Speaking of him, where is he?"
"He left the village yesterday." Tsunade responded
"Did you send him on a mission?" asked Koi.
"No. But he left the village to master 'Heaven's Blade' and Hiraishin," Tsunade said with a smirk of satisfaction, simply because she knew how they would react.
She was right.
After the initial shock wore off, Koi slammed the table, "This is a goddamn outrage. How the hell did he get the Hiraishin scroll? Not only that but how can a demon wield the 'Heaven's Blade'?"
"You can't be serious; he can't learn that technique, Tsunade. He will become a threat," Waga said in an elevated tone.
Tsunade closed her eyes to calm herself. "Kakashi was ordered to give him a scroll when he was eighteen. Kakashi gave him the scroll that led him to the Hirashin scroll. That technique was handed down to him by his father. If he becomes a threat, you only have yourselves to blame."
Hiashi was curious as to how the boy was able to get 'Heaven's Blade'. He knew a little of the Blade, but how could a kid with a demon wield it. "How did Naruto obtain that sword?"
"He went through trials and the sword accepted him as its wielder. Like it or not, Naruto has the Hiraishin scroll and the strongest sword on the planet. Uzumaki will return in six months time." Tsunade informed the Hyuuga clan head.
"I also would like to know when I can see my daughter," Hiashi asked.
"This isn't the place for that and you will see her when I say. She is recovering from her injuries. Moving on, let's discuss the upcoming meeting in the Rice."
Hiashi narrowed his eyes at the subject change, but he would worry about that later. Right now, the talk about the meeting was more important.
"I will only be taking three nins with me this time. Kakashi, Anko, and Shikamaru" Tsunade informed the council.
"I have a request… could you also take Hanabi with you? I think this trip will educate her in the way of politics." Hiashi asked hoping she would agree.
Tsunade shook her head giving her answer, "Request denied. Hanabi will stay in the village. I understand where you are coming from, but it is too dangerous to take her with her current skill level. Also, she is of the main family; and we wouldn't want the Hyuuga Kekkei Genkai falling into the wrong hands."
"What about Senzairu?" Himoura questioned.
"He will remain here. He and the Raikage have a long history and I fear he will attack the Raikage." When Tsunade answered Himoura's question, she turned to face Chouza Akimichi who asked, "What is going to be done about the people in the stadium, Tsunade-sama?"
"We will follow village protocol. Remember, this Chuunin exam is going to be big. People from all over will be attending and I don't think that the leaders of their respective villages would put their Daimyo in danger. But, I could be wrong about all of this, either way our first priority is to get the women, elderly, and children to safety." Tsunade could still see the anger on some faces; she suspected it had a lot to do with Naruto.
Among the visibly angry was Jin Wei. Staring into the desk with a angered expression, he slowly lifted his head and turned to Tsunade, "Excuse me for saying Hokage, but you have just sent this village to hell in a hand basket."
The comment caused Tsunade's eyes to narrow. "What did you say?"
Wei Jin returned the look, "I said you sent this village to hell. First, you give the demon the Hiraishin scroll, plus he steals Heaven's Blade on top of that; we're doomed."
Tsunade was about to respond, but she heard a voice before she could, "Demon… to be able to wield a blade that the Heaven's itself allowed illustrates the view that many have on Uzumaki is unjustified."
Everyone turned to the usually quiet Shibi. Softening his eyes slightly, Wei spoke, "What do you mean?"
Tsume folded her arms and shut her eyes smiling all the while. Her former teammate was always like this. Always shedding light, making things become easier to see, as opposed to being blinded. That's what she liked about him, never judgmental and always examining every aspect. She looked on as her teammate decided to educate Wei, "To simplify it, the Heavens wouldn't aid a demon."
"Are you saying that the boy is human? Impossible, he is the Kyuubi reincarnate!" Wei Jin said with an elevated voice, filled with anger.
Shibi placed his index finger at the center of his sun glasses, readjusting their position on his face, "Are you sure of your assumptions? The blame of one for the actions of another is the cause for your hatred of Uzumaki. Remember this: the Kyuubi was the one that killed your loved ones, as well as mine. The boy; however, was cursed with the fate to carry the fox to ensure our village's safety. He is no more responsible for what transpired than any of us."
Wei Jin's anger was getting the best of him, this was revealed through his screaming, "You are a fool as well, Shibi. The first chance "it" gets, it will try to destroy us. The Kyuubi is clever; he has the perfect time to strike, and he has everything he needs. You can defend him, but the fact of the matter is that he is evi…."
"I hate to admit it, but Shibi is right." All eyes went to Hiashi.
"We all know about The Sword of the Heavens, well maybe not in detail, but we do know that if the boy was truly a demon, he would not be able to wield it. One thing is for sure, the boy will become a threat to this village. I think we should push for the boy to remain in the village." What Hiashi said shocked the ears of many.
At one time; Tsunade would have agreed, but as it stood now, well… she just couldn't bring herself to convince Naruto to come back. "I've tried, the boy is set in his ways and he wishes to end all ties to this village. I don't blame him at all. My grandfather built a village with the intention that we would support each other, thus making us strong. We lost sight of that when Uzumaki became the Jinchuuriki of the Kyuubi no Yoko. I'm glad I wasn't in the village at that time, I would have been ashamed. The only reason I am Hokage is because the boy restored my faith in this village, but I often wonder if I made the wrong decision."
Tsunade leaned back in her chair and rested her head on the palm on of her hand. Letting out a breath that showed her mental exhaustion, she moved her fingers back and forth signaling their dismissal. "This meeting is over. I grow tired of everyone always blaming Naruto for something out of his realm of control. But, most of all, I grow tired of this village."
Shikaku didn't like what he was hearing. He knew that the village needed Tsunade right now, her leadership was, no, is important to the village. He didn't notice until now, but when he looked in the Hokage's face, it was evident that she wasn't kidding. He could do nothing but curse the villagers, curse the council, and hell, even curse himself. He never looked at it from Shibi's point of view. Now that he did, could this have been what Jiraiya-sama, Tsunade-sama, and Shikamaru saw? One thing was certain; he would have to re-evaluate everything.
Tsunade observed everyone file out. On the far wall, there rested the pictures of all of the Hokages, including herself. She looked at the man who is deemed a hero, in the village that shuns his only attachment to this world. "Was there no other way, Minato? Did you really have to burden your son with this? I wonder if you made the right decision sometimes, sacrificing yourself and your son for this village. Personally, I don't think that is something I could have done." Tsunade leaned back further in the chair and fixed her gaze on the ceiling. "Well, it doesn't matter, I made a vow to protect this village and that's what I intend to do. Dan and Nawaki would have protected the village with all they had, and at one time you would have too, Naruto; I will correct the problem, so future generations won't make the same mistake that was made to you, Naruto. That I promise."
Cloud Village, Noon…
On the roof of the Raikage's tower stood the 24 members of BOLT, Four captains and twenty squad members. Lined up in front of their respective captains, the captain with the bear mask spoke, "We were given an assignment of top priority. Our job is to find Uzumaki Naruto and eliminate him. We will scope around Fire Country. The other captains and I have discussed it and we will not try to infiltrate Konoha. Their ANBU is just as skilled as our Special Forces. We will gather info; wait until he leaves the village for a mission and then strike."
The captain on the far right; with the hawk mask, was the next to speak, "Our groups will take different areas. My squad will search in the eastern section of Fire Country."
"My squad will take the Western Section." The captain with the weasel mask informed his squad.
The captain with the bear mask looked at his squad, "We'll take the southern perimeter."
Last to speak was the captain with the dog mask, "That leaves us with the North. Also, we will be splitting up into teams of two once we arrive at our locations; your captains will tell you more about this. All of us will meet in Rice Country in a week's time. If we do not catch Uzumaki during our stint in Fire Country, there is a chance that we will find him next to the Hokage in Rice Country. You know your mission and you have your orders, let us move out."
Everyone nodded, then in a flash the group of ninjas vanished from the site. On a roof not too far away, a blue-haired nin sat and watched the Special Forces depart. Looking down on to the street, he saw his team heading his way. He had other obligations, but one thing was certain, he would fight Uzumaki Naruto, come hell or high water. Kouen appeared in front of his squad. "Let's go. We have a mission in Rock Country." Without a second glance, Kouen turned around and walked off causing a group of genin to follow.
Naiya's Place, 4 pm…
Hinata was in the yard, finishing up her kata. She stopped and wiped the sweat that was slowly making its way down her forehead. Naiya wasn't there with her, and Kaito was just lying around again. She could keep training, but she decided to take an hour's reprieve. Hinata grabbed the towel that she had placed on the rock, to wipe the sweat out of her face completely. She headed into the house.
Naruto was in the library studying the "The Sword of the Heavens" scroll. He skimmed through the scroll and discovered the history of the sword and the techniques of the sword. "These techniques are good so far. But, they look a bit difficult to perform, especially the final technique. The scroll even states that not even a handful have reached this. Ryuho-sensei didn't even achieve the final technique. However, he did reach the technique required to achieve the final technique. I have six months to even be able to understand the sword and learn what it's capable of."
Naruto looked up from the book when he heard the door slowly open. He turned his head slightly to see the Hyuuga. Hinata gave him a warm smile; Naruto gave a weak smile in return, "What brings you here, Hinata?"
"Just wondering what you were up to, Naruto-kun. So, you're not doing any physical training today I presume?" Hinata pulled up the chair next to Naruto and sat down.
"Nope, I was reading this scroll, so I can have an idea on how to use the sword and the techniques associated with it. I will probably read the Hiraishin tonight; you know, to get an idea of how it works. I'm giving myself a couple of days to memorize what is required to perform these techniques. No physical training for about a couple of days. I'm just doing some mental training."
Hinata looked at the blond and just smiled, "Always the hard worker, eh Naruto-kun? I have no doubt that you will master both techniques."
"I hope so. So Hinata, what do you plan on doing when you leave here?" Hinata's expression turned from a happy one to a serious one.
"I don't know… I haven't really thought about it. I guess I will figure it out when I leave." Hinata stood up and walked over to the shelf and grabbed a scroll. She then headed back to the exit, "Well Naruto-kun, I just came by to get a scroll on sealing. Naiya-sensei doesn't know this, but I study at night as well. I will see you later, Naruto-kun."
While she was leaving the room, Naruto waved his hand, saying goodbye to Hinata. Naruto continued to read and study the scroll Ryuho had given him.
Naiya's lab…
Naiya was hard at work in her lab. Naiya's lab was adequately large. This particular lab was perfect because it had a section where she could work on designing seals and smithery; however, the latter was something she had no skill in what so ever. Using Naruto's own blood and drawing the mark of the Hiraishin on the kunai was easy, the hard part; however, was fusing them into the kunai. Besides that, Naruto had also wanted her to use a special type of metal that was used to create chakra blades. She was a seal master, not a blacksmith. She couldn't help but think that having Kaito there at a time like this was like a blessing. Most shinobi from the Mist specialized in everything that involved swords and to have an ex-member of their Seven Swordsman in her house; she was lucky indeed.
Using the unique metal, Kaito was busy making the kunai. He looked over at Naiya, who was sitting at her desk applying the seal on the kunai that he created. "Naiya, you only have a limited supply of that special metal. I can only make about 10 to15 more using that metal."
She studied the kunai in her hand to examine if she had made a mistake with the seal. Without looking at the man who addressed her, "That's fine. Just make what you can and from then on just make the regular kunai."
Kaito went back to work, but not before saying, "I can't believe you got me doing this. I should be laying in the back yard, enjoying the breeze you know. I didn't even volunteer to help."
Naiya put the kunai down and picked up another one that she had marked and examined it, "Stop your whining you're helping your apprentice become a better ninja."
Kaito mumbled to himself, "As if he needs to be a better ninja. I don't think I can beat him now and that's saying a lot."
Putting the kunai in her hand down on the desk, her eyes turned to the missing-nin from the Mist, "That's beside the point. You know what will happen if Aisu has his way. It will be Mist Country all over again; do you want that Kaito?"
Kaito, who was looking into her eyes, turned away, defeated. He looked down at the ground beneath him with slight sadness in his eyes, "No, I guess I don't."
She smiled at the man who back was facing her, "Good, now hurry up with those kunai, chop chop."
"You don't have to order me around like I'm some child either, stop being a goddamn nuisance." Kaito said to himself, well at least he thought he did.
"Who's a goddamn nuisance? Maybe, I should give you away to those Hunter-nins from Mist Country." Naiya said the last part with a devilish glint in her eye.
"Okay, you're not a nuisance." He said to ease the tension.
Closing her eyes satisfied, she smiled, "I know I'm not a nuisance."
"You're just a bossy bitch." He said this even lower to himself hoping that she didn't hear what he said. When one of the newly formed kunai flew at his head and hit the wall behind him, he knew she had heard what he said. The other five kunai that he saw coming at him solidified it. Kaito did what anyone would do when angering a woman like Naiya.
He ran for dear life.
"Comeback here you bastard, how dare you call me a bitch, I will skin you alive, just wait to I get my hands on you." Naruto, who looked up from the scroll he was reading heard the commotion and just shook his head. "She can be a … little off at times, but I would never tell that to her or any woman's face, that's suicide. I'm crazy, not stupid. Poor sensei.
Hinata was outside in the yard practicing when she heard her sensei. She shook her head as well. "Bad move, Kaito-san, I pray for your safety." Hinata turned back to the training dummy she had setup and continued with her strikes.
Three Days Later…
Three days had passed, they were uneventful and each day was pretty much the same. Naiya and Kaito came to a truce, well it was more of him pleading and submitting to her will, and a lengthy apology. Naruto studied both scrolls while waiting for his kunai to be Hiraishin ready. Hinata continued her training without the assistance of her sensei, for obvious reasons. It was around 7 in the morning. Naruto was in the library studying the Hiraishin scroll. He was hoping to put to use what he learned. The above could be said for Heaven's Blade. Naruto now knew why the sword rejected him when he attempted to draw it against Senzairu. He also knew the reason behind the sword glowing while he was at the Valley of The End. Without realization, he had activated the Sword. This activation, was a technique in itself, it was know as 'First Light' or Dawn. He reasoned that the bright glow was the reason for the name.
Naruto, who was reading the Hiraishin scroll was interrupted by an exhausted looking Naiya, "Naruto, follow me." Naruto put the scroll down and followed the woman out of the room.
Naiya had led Naruto to the training area in the backyard. In the back yard, he saw Kaito spinning a kunai with the Hiraishin mark on his hand. Naruto looked down to see that Kaito had his foot propped on a box that had the two hundred or so kunai he had requested inside. He looked back up at Kaito, who then tossed Naruto the kunai. Naruto caught the kunai and gave it a once over. He noticed that his chakra started to go into the kunai. Naruto smiled at this.
The blond looked up when he heard the blue-haired man speak, "I was only able to make twenty-two due to the limited supply here."
Naiya walked up to Naruto and handed him a scroll, "The chakra kunai are in here. I need your sword, Naruto."
Naruto took the blade off of his back and handed it to Naiya. Glancing at the sword, she looked up at Naruto, "You will have this back in a couple of hours."
He nodded understanding that the process would take long. Kaito moved away from the box of kunai and walked toward Naruto. When he got near the boys left side, he stopped and whispered, "I want to see how far you have come with a sword. When you get it back, come find me."
Naruto gave a slight nod and headed to the box that was filled with kunai. Naruto turned around to see Naiya was near the entrance, he yelled out, "Hey, what do I owe you?"
Naiya put up her hand, "You owe me nothing. Trust me kid when I say that it was a pleasure. I think any seal master would love to be able to do what I did for the past three days, well those not attached to the Hidden Villages who feared the 'Yellow Flash'. Either way, it was definitely a pleasure. Excuse me; I have other things that I need to work on. Enjoy your training."
Naruto looked at the kunai that was in his hand with a grin on his face. "I guess it's now or never." He was now ready to test what he had read in the scroll. He was ready to try and execute the Hiraishin.
Konoha, 11 am…
In a hospital room, a little girl's heart was starting to race. Yumi, who was in the room with her, was sitting in the chair at the far end of the room sleeping; clueless to the girl and the expression on her face. This expression was one of fear.
Hayami's dreamscape…
Hayami found she was alone in a forest. A familiar kunochi, who was giving her a sick grin, slowly chased her. She ran as fast as she could in the opposite direction. She stopped to catch her breath. Feeling a presence in front of her, she looked up to see the same lady in front of her. She turned around and ran again. She continued to run but she tripped over a Rock causing damage to her ankle. The lady stood over Hayami with a kunai in her hand, "Don't worry, 'Naruto-nii-san' will be joining you soon.'
On the outside…
Yumi jumped up when she heard the girl cry out. Looking at the monitor, she saw that her heart rate was erratic. Yumi ran out of the room to get a doctor, when she ran into Sakura, who had just come out of another patient's room. "Sakura, something is wrong, her machine, its going haywire!"
Sakura wasted no time running to Hayami's room to see what was going on. Sakura arrived first, followed by Yumi and what they saw was girl kicking and screaming. "Stop please, don't hurt me I didn't do anything please."
Sakura looked at the girl. She touched her forehead to see if her temperature was elevating, but it wasn't. The girl was definitely dreaming, and the kicking and screaming was a good sign. The girl would be waking up any minute. Sakura looked at a worried Yumi, "Don't worry; she's fine, just having a nightmare."
Sakura saw a doctor walk pass, "Hey!" The doctor, who was in the door way stopped waiting for Sakura to continue, "Would you tell Tsunade-sama to come here. She's in room 312, tell her it concerns the younger Minashu." The man nodded and hurried off.
Yumi came closer next to Sakura, "What do you think is causing this?"
"I don't know. Could have to do with what happened in the forest I'm guessing."
"What's going on?" Sakura and Yumi turned around to see Tsunade, Kakashi, and Jiraiya.
"She's having a nightmare Tsunade-sama." Sakura informed her mentor.
"Well, that is good news." Tsunade walked closer to see the girl. The girl was begging someone to stop, but whoever it was in her dream wouldn't stop. Tsunade suspected it had something to do with the kunochi who did this to the girl, according to Konohamaru's and Hanabi's reports. Hayami stopped kicking and screaming – she became calm. Sakura and Yumi started to smile when they saw the girl eyes open slowly.
Hayami saw a bright white light. "Is this heaven?" Shadows of people started to appear before her, she could hear the voices, but couldn't make out what was being said. Finally, she heard one of the voices say, "She's up."
Finally, the people started to come into focus. What the little girl saw was a beautiful blonde, a pink-haired girl, a brown-haired girl, and two men with white hair; one she recognized and the other she didn't. The memories of what transpired caused the girl to shoot up. The first words out of her mouth were, "Shinji-nii?"
"He's fine." Hayami trace the voice back to the blond woman standing on the side of here. Tsunade continued, "So, how are you feeling, Hayami?"
"Where are Mommy and Daddy?" The girl asked.
Sakura, Kakashi, Tsunade, and Yumi looked away. Jiraiya couldn't find it in himself to tell the girl, but he knew he would have to. "I guess there is no other way to say this, but…"
"They're dead." Hayami gaze fixed on the door to see her cousin in hospital garbs. Shinji, who was using a crutch for support, continued until he got to Hayami's bed. She looked up at her cousin, tears threatened to fall down her eyes, "That can't be true. Mommy…Daddy."
Reality hit hard. The girl started to break down and cry. Yumi went to comfort the girl, but Shinji placed his hand in front of her. Hayami looked straight ahead and continued to cry a bit more. She placed her hand to near her heart, surprised to feel the chain she gave her mother there. She grabbed the chain and looked at it.
"Naruto put that on you." Hayami looked at Sakura, "Naruto-nii-san… but how, I gave this to mommy to fix."
"He got it from your mother." Yumi informed the girl causing her to turn around. She gave Yumi a curious look; this caused Yumi to introduce herself, "I'm sorry my name is Yumi. Naruto and I were at Sea Country when… well your mother told him to return the chain to you."
Hayami looked at the chain, then back at the girl, "Yumi, you're Naruto-nii-san's friend. Where am I and where is Naruto-nii-san?"
Jiraiya spoke, "You're in Konoha. You and your cousin were found by Kakashi and his squad."
"Oh… Jiraiya-sama, where is Naruto-nii-san?" Hayami asked again.
Tsunade decided to step in, "Naruto has left the village at the moment."
"When will he be back?" Hayami asked.
"He's not coming back. Not anytime soon," Shinji informed his cousin.
"Why Shinji-nii?" The girl asked.
Yumi grabbed the girl's hand and gave her a warm smile, "He's training to protect us. He gave me this letter to give you before he left."
"Hayami slowly opened the letter and started reading it.
Dear Hayami,
"If you are reading this, it means that you are out of your coma. I want to apologize in advance for leaving you, but I have to get stronger and master the sword your father has given me. I know I promised that we would get to spend time together, but what happened put a delay in that. I will be back in six months. That much you can count on, because I never go back on my word. Be safe and look after Yumi for me. Also, tell Shinji he's a fatty-head. I will see you in six.
Watching over you always,
Uzumaki Naruto"
Hayami gave a giggle at the last part. She looked at Shinji, "He called you a fatty-head." This caused everyone to snicker, but the happiness for Hayami quickly faded as she realized that it would be six long months. Her family was gone, Shinji, although he was here, had always been distant to her. Naruto wouldn't be back for six months, which meant she would be all alone.
Sensing the girl's thoughts, Yumi moved a strand of hair out of the girls face causing her to look up, "Don't worry. I'm sure we can bide your time until you brother comes back to us. Besides, I have to look out for my little sister right?"
Hayami smiled, "Right."
"See that, she is well protected!" Everyone turned to the door to see the sister of the Kazekage leaning against the entrance of the door. Hayami's features lit up at the familiar face. "Temari-nee-chan, you're here."
"Of course I'm here." Temari said while returning the smile.
"But, I'm curious, why?" Kakashi said, which prompted Temari to pull out a letter with the Kazekage's stamp on it.
"Special orders of the Kazekage, I'm sure you understand."
"So, Gaara doesn't trust us does he?" Tsunade said, slightly disappointed in her ally.
"It's not you that Gaara doesn't trust; it's the people in this village." Temari reassured Tsunade.
Sakura went back into doctor mode, "Well everyone, my patient needs rest. You can all come back and visit her in two hours." Everyone nodded and started to head out but the voice of Hayami stopped them in their tracks, "Please…Please don't leave me alone. That lady… she might… she might"
"What lady Hayami, tell me?" Temari demanded.
"The lady with red hair and blue eyes, she wants to hurt me. Please don't leave me alone."
Temari looked at Sakura, "I'm staying. As her personal body guard, I am not leaving."
Sakura looked at the girl and saw how scared she was. She looked at Tsunade who gave her a look that said "it's your decision to make" which caused Sakura to sigh. "Okay, you can stay. Yumi, I know you want to stay, but you were here three days straight. Temari is here, so go home and get some sleep. Comeback when you're well-rested. Shinji, come you have your meds to take."
Sakura and everyone else filed out of the room with the exception of Temari and Tsunade.
Temari and Tsunade walked over to the girl and pulled up chairs next to her. Temari spoke, "The lady… did she attack you?"
Hayami nodded, "She attacked me in the forest. She wanted to hurt me because of Naruto-nii-san. She doesn't like nii-san very much."
"I see." Temari said. Temari place her hand on the girl's lower leg, "Well, she won't hurt you, okay? I know who you speak of and I am much stronger than her. She will have to get through me to get to you and trust me, that isn't going to happen. You believe me?"
The girl nodded, "Yes."
Tsunade interjected, "You're safe here in Konoha. Naruto may not be here, but I am and you will be under my protection. I assure you that the Hokage is the strongest the village, along with me, Temari, and Shinji when he regains his strength, you have nothing to worry about."
"What about Naruto-nii-san? That lady and her friends killed mommy and daddy. She wants to kill nii-san, how do you know he will be okay? I don't want nii-san to die, if he dies…" tears started to slowly form in the girls eyes.
"Naruto is a big boy, he can take of himself. He is one person you don't have to worry about. Besides, you're brother fought her and beat her already. The reason she went after you was because she can't beat Naruto." Temari said, trying to convince the girl that everything would be okay.
"Naruto nii-san beat that lady, sugoi (means amazing)!" Hayami said surprised by the information.
"Yes, he can be. But like I said, I'm here now so don't worry." Temari said once again.
Tsunade stood up, "Well Temari, I have matters to tend to. She's all yours."
Tsunade gave the girl a cheeky smile, "Either Sakura, who is the pink-haired doctor, or myself will be back to check on you later. You must be hungry, what do you want to eat?"
"Ramen, Miso Ramen please!" Hayami informed the Hokage.
"Great, another person obsessed with ramen." Tsunade sigh, "Very well, I will send someone here with your ramen."
Tsunade exited out of the room leaving the two alone. Walking through the hospital, a thought came to her head, she was now sporting a sinister smile "Well, I guess its time to see if everyone's favorite Uchiha is up for a mission."
Uchiha compound, five hours later…
Sasuke was punching the stick dummy before him furiously. "Goddamn Godaime, I don't have time to play body guard to some brat."
Sasuke thought back to the meeting that he had just came from an hour ago.
Flashback…Hokage's tower, one hour ago….
Sasuke was standing before Tsunade, who had ordered him to her office. "You wish to see me?"
"Yes Sasuke, I have a top priority mission for you." Tsunade informed the Uchiha.
"What is the mission?"
"I fear that an attempt will be made on the girl's life, you will watch over the Minashu girl until I say otherwise." Sasuke's facial expression was what she expected.
Sasuke started to protest, "Look, I don't have time to play body guard to some kid. Get somebody else."
"I can do that, but I don't want to. You are going to do this, whether you like it or not, so deal with it, Uchiha. There is a reason why I chose you for this assignment. Now, you're mission starts tomorrow. Enjoy the rest of your day." Tsunade couldn't help but smile at her victory. She was still Hokage and Sasuke had no choice but to follow orders, whether he liked them or not.
Sasuke walked off, mumbling something that the Hokage couldn't hear.
End of Flashback…
"Sasuke-kun, are you okay?" Sasuke stopped punching his dummy and turned to face Sakura.
"No, you're god damn sensei stuck me with guard duty for that little girl from that samurai clan." Sasuke continued hitting the dummy.
Sakura was kind of surprised at this, "Tsunade-sama assigned you to guard duty for Hayami… that's a surprise. Well, with you and Temari guarding her, I'm sure nothing will happen."
Sasuke stopped hitting the bag and looked at Sakura, "What! If Temari is guarding the girl, then why the hell was I assigned to the girl?"
Sakura shrugged, "Don't know, but if Tsunade assigned you, then she has her reasons. Well, I stopped by to ask if you want to grab something to eat."
Sasuke turned away from Sakura, trying to figure out the Godaime's motives. He waved Sakura off, "No, I ate already."
Sakura frowned at the Uchiha, "What a surprise. You know what Sasuke… forget it. Just make sure that you are nicer to that little girl than you are to me. "
Sasuke turned to Sakura, "Are you mad, because I don't want to grab a bite to eat?"
"Do you really think it's about that? I thought I'd never see the day when the great Uchiha Sasuke would need something spelled out for him!" Sakura turned around and stormed off.
Sasuke screamed out, "Where are you going?" Sakura didn't give him a response which caused him to yell out to her again, "Where are you going, Sakura?"
Sakura Shunshin'ed out of sight. Sasuke turned around and headed to his compound, "What the hell was her problem. Never mind that, what I really want to know is why did the Godaime choose me specifically?" Sasuke continued to think about this as he entered his house.
Naiya's place…
"God damn it" Naruto fell face first into the ground. The kage buushin he was using to help him train had long since dispersed. The technique was proving harder then he had originally thought. Hinata, who was sparing with Naiya, stopped to watch Naruto. Kaito was watching his apprentice from the rock he was sitting on. "I think you should rest Naruto, your running low on chakra. Continuing this would be nonsense."
Naruto slowly rose to his feet, "Stop, I got more than enough energy to contin…" Naruto fell back on his face.
Hinata left Naiya and ran up to Naruto, "Naruto-kun!" she shook him hoping he would wake. Naiya, who came up from behind, and Kaito who was standing over just observed the boy.
"I wouldn't worry too much, it's just chakra depletion. He should be fine." Kaito said.
Naiya placed her hand on Hinata's shoulder, "We should continue our training. Come now." Hinata reluctantly left Naruto's side.
Kaito bent down and threw Naruto over his shoulder. As he took Naruto to his room to rest, he couldn't help but smile at how far his student had come. Their practice session yesterday proved that. Naruto's sword skills surpassed his own now; it was his experience that kept him in the fight. He couldn't help but feel good for being responsible for this. "You know fox… you are something. I wonder how far you will come in six months time. I guess I'll have to wait and see, time will tell."