Naruto Fan Fiction / Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ A Strange New World ❯ A Change of Plan ( Chapter 3 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: Hiei Jaganshi Urameshi 
Iruka gets a promotion.
Anime/Manga: Naruto Fan Fiction / Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Martial Arts / Adventure / Action | Type: Crossover | Uploaded On: 09.18.2006 | Pages: 2 | Words: 4.2K | Visits: 897 | Status: Work In Progress
Iruka gets a promotion.
Anime/Manga: Naruto Fan Fiction / Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Martial Arts / Adventure / Action | Type: Crossover | Uploaded On: 09.18.2006 | Pages: 2 | Words: 4.2K | Visits: 897 | Status: Work In Progress
A Change of Plan
Disclaimer: See Chapter 1
"You want us to do what?" Yusuke asked angrily as he glared at Kakashi, who had returned to reading 'Icha Icha Paradise'. "What kind of mission is picking up rubbish?" Kakashi continued reading; having long ago gotten used to Naruto's protests. He knew that sooner or later Yusuke would give up, and then they could carry on with the mission.
From where he was standing, Iruka could see that having two teams was tiring Kakashi's mental stamina, especially as he had a copy of Naruto in the second group. However he also knew about his Jounin friend's stubborn nature, that he wouldn't ask for help and Iruka knew of only one person that could make Kakashi give up one of the teams. In a swirl of leaves, Iruka disappeared to ask for an audience with the Hokage.
The audience was quickly granted, it was surprising since it was so early in the morning, especially since the Hokage had not yet met with his advisors. "How are you, Hokage-sama?" Iruka asked as he was admitted into the chamber, giving a bow to the head of Konoha village. The Hokage motioned for Iruka to take a seat, which the Chuunin accepted gratefully. "Thank you, Hokage-sama." He said as the Hokage sat also
"What seems to be the problem, Iruka?" The Hokage asked. "It is quite early for you to be here. How is Kuwabara Kazuma doing?" The Hokage asked as he motioned for tea to be poured for both himself and his Chuunin companion. "How is he faring with being in a group of ten-year-olds?" The aide finished pouring the cups and left the room. Lifting the cup to his lips, the Hokage studied the young man before him. Something seemed to be troubling the young man greatly, and it was anybody's guess what it was.
"Kazuma-san is doing well, if slowly." Iruka said. "He maybe older than his peers, but he is improving quicker now than when he was being taught with his friends." Iruka said as the Hokage sipped the hot beverage. "However, the main reason that I asked for an audience with you is that I am worried about Kakashi-kun. I fear that two teams could be too much for him to handle, perhaps it wouldn't be so if Yusuke-san and Naruto-kun were different, but that isn't an option with them." He picked up his cup. "Hokage, only you can stop this fiasco before our Copy Ninja has to be hospitalized to save his sanity, his mind is fractured enough as it is." The Hokage laughed as he filled his pipe with tobacco.
"Give Kakashi another week, and if things haven't improved we shall find another to take over Kakashi's second team." The Hokage lit the pipe and smiled. "Thank you for bringing your worries to my attention, Iruka, your concern is appreciated." Iruka nodded as he drank his tea. "You have become close to Kakashi since he’s taken on Naruto, haven't you? How is he getting on with him and Uchiha Sasuke? I heard that they have a little rivalry going on between each other."
Iruka blushed at the mention of Kakashi's name. "Kakashi is getting on well, and I think that he has sorted out most of the problems between the boys, however as long as Naruto and Sasuke are in the same level of ninja life they will always be rivals, and they could only get better and better." He smiled slightly. "They both keep our Kakashi Hatake on his feet. Sometimes I get to sit down with him and Naruto between missions and they seem to enjoy the company of the group. Iruka set down his cup. "Please excuse me, Hokage-sama, but I need to prepare for my next class." The Hokage nodded and allowed Iruka to leave.
The Hokage sighed, it was all well and good that Iruka brought up the subject, however getting the solution would be another thing. Only a Jounin could train a Genin team, and the spare Jounin number were already on missions, and he was loathed to call back a Jounin team just to separate them up so one could take a Genin team. That left one other option; a Chuunin at the Village could be promoted to Jounin level, however it could take some time to choose the best candidate. He needed to have had plenty of experience in leading a team. He really needed to talk to his advisors about this.
One by one the advisors filed in, waiting until each had taken their place before the Hokage welcomed them. "Welcome, my friends." The Hokage said as his eyes looked from one face to the next. "I'm glad to see that you're all well. My esteemed colleagues, we have a decision to make, regarding who is going to take on Hatake Kakashi’s second team. It has been brought to my attention that he is having difficulty with training both teams, however I do not wish to call back a Jounin team just to place a Genin team under one of them, especially since we have a few Chuunin in the village who have no missions at the moment." He placed the piles of Chuunin profiles in front of the Advisors.
"Then we are to decide upon a Chuunin to promote then." One of the Advisors stated as he pulled some of the profiles towards him. "Hokage-sama, to get the right candidate could take quite some time." One by one he looked at the profiles that he had taken and set some to one side, those were the profiles of the Chuunin level teachers. "We need all the teachers that we can get." He said, "I believe that we shouldn't touch them unless we really have nowhere else to turn." The others agreed as they all took a pile to study, and to compare all the necessary qualities a good Jounin needed.
It took three very long days for the advisors to decide that none of the non-teaching staff qualified for what they thought they needed. Then one advisor came up with an idea. "Hokage-sama, why don't we promote Umino Iruka?" He asked. "He can handle his own with problem students. Also, I believe, he has taught them before, therefore he would know their personalities better than a stranger would." The other advisors agreed with that, and the Hokage nodded before asking for a vote on the matter, the majority agreed that Iruka would be the best choice.
"Then it is settled. Our new Jounin shall be Umino Iruka." He said, announcing it as though he had made the decision himself. "We need to arrange things for the announcement." The Hokage knew that Iruka would be shocked to learn that he would be the one that would be dealing with his own request, however the hardest part would be prying Yusuke, Hiei and Kurama away from Kakashi's grip. He knew just how protective a Jounin got over a team, he remembered what he was like with Jiraiya, Tsunade and Orochimaru. How proud he was when they became the Legendary Sannin, and also the heartache when Orochimaru turned against Konoha, choosing to become a missing-nin. The memories, both the good and the bad, would be with him forever.
“So what do you wish to do now, Hokage-sama?” One of the advisers asked, knocking the Hokage out of his memories. “When would you like Iruka informed of his promotion?” The Hokage looked up. “Hokage-sama?”
“I shall inform Iruka myself.” The Hokage said, straighten9ing his hat. “Could you start on the preparations for the ceremony, we shall do it tomorrow at noon. The sooner we can sort out Kakashi’s predicament the better.” The advisers nodded as they left the room to start on the preparations for the Hokage. The Hokage rested his head on his hands, it didn’t seem that long since Iruka was in the Academy, causing almost as much trouble as Naruto had. Now Iruka was going to be Konoha’s newest Jounin, and have a Genin team of his own. Where had all the time gone? It would do no good sitting down, daydreaming of what had been. The Hokage stood up, brushed down his clothing, and left for Iruka’s apartment.
A knock on the door woke Iruka from his pleasant slumber. His dreams had taken a delightful turn, and he was loathed to give it up. He was in the arms of a certain grey-haired Jounin, having the breath kissed out of him. He had caught a glimpse of Kakashi’s face under the mask a couple of times, and it gave him something to dream about. The knock happened again, forcing Iruka to get up. It was too early for all of this. “I’m coming, I’m coming.” He grumbled, rubbing his eyes as he walked to the door, opening it. The sight of the Hokage standing there, made Iruka blush, self-conscious of the fact that he was wearing only pajama pants, which didn’t hide much. “Hokage-sama, what a surprise, please come in. I’ll just change into something more presentable.” The Hokage chuckled as Iruka ran into his bedroom to change, and a moment later, Iruka returned wearing his body suit. “What can I do for you?”
“It’s not what you can do for me, but what I can do for you.” The Hokage said. Seeing Iruka blush, he thought ‘And people say that Kakashi has an overactive imagination because of his ‘Icha Icha’ books.’ He allowed a few moments of silence before putting Iruka out of his misery. “I have spoken with my advisers and we have come to a conclusion that we need a new Jounin to take Kakashi’s second team and, through a majority vote, you were selected.” The look on Iruka’s face was priceless. “I shall leave you to digest the news. Your promotion ceremony is tomorrow at noon.” With that the Hokage left.
Two hours later and Iruka had barely moved except to sit down. Never had he thought that he would become a Jounin, yet many ninjas had become a Jounin at a much younger age than he was at now. He thought that his teaching ability would have stood against him, but seemingly not. His mind was shaken up, he wanted to scream his joy from the top of the faces of the four Hokage.
Kakashi knew something was happening, he could feel it in the air. Suddenly one of the aides to the Hokage walked up to him. “Kakashi-san, your presence is asked for by the Hokage. You and your two Genin teams are to see him as soon as you possibly can get there.” Kakashi nodded and started looking for his teams.
Ten minutes later, Kakashi and his Genins were standing outside the Hokage’s office. Kakashi had spent most of the time telling both Naruto and Yusuke that he honestly had no idea why the Hokage had summoned them. A moment later and an aide opened the door, showing them in. “Thank you for coming, please take a seat.” The Hokage said, relighting his pipe as the seven sat down. “What I have to say is very important as it affects all of you. Kakashi, it has been brought to my attention that you have been having some problems with having the two teams to look after.” The Hokage raised his hands to stop Kakashi’s indignant outburst. “The person that informed me was worried about you, and that is why Yusuke, Hiei and Kurama are being given to our newly selected Jounin. Trust me, they will be well cared for. The promotion ceremony is at noon tomorrow. You should attend it. You may go.” Kakashi and the others left, shocked at the announcement. That day was the last that they would have together as a group.
Iruka was awake most of the night, he was so nervous and it was affecting his stomach so much that he couldn’t eat. He wanted the ceremony to be over without a fuss, even though he had a good idea that some of the Jounins that were in the village would drag him out. Then there was Kakashi, the mere thought of the Sharingan-using ninja made him blush. What would Kakashi think of him stealing away his subordinates? He was mostly sure that Kakashi would be happy for him, happy that he was a Jounin anyway.
The closer it got to noon, the more nervous Iruka got. He finished getting ready, barely able to tie the forehead protector in place. He was now ready, leaving himself just enough time to get to the ceremony before the majority of those attending it got there.
From where Iruka was standing, he could see all the Jounins that had subordinate Genins, Kakashi standing to one side, he seemed down. However before Iruka could go over there and see if he was okay, the Hokage called for everybody’s attention. “Thank you for attending at such short notice.” He said, looking at Iruka. “As you all know, I have called you all here because I decided that another Jounin is required and I am going to introduce you to him now.” He motioned for Iruka to stand beside him. “I am sure that you all recognize Umino Iruka, one of the Chuunin instructors at our Academy. He has accepted the position of Jounin, and will be taking over the training of Urameshi Yusuke, Uchiha Hiei and Minamino Shuichi from Hatake Kakashi as of today.”
‘So Iruka will be taking them. The Hokage was correct about them being in good hands.’ Kakashi thought as he watched the rest of the ceremony. As a Jounin it was almost necessary for him to be there, even more so since Iruka would be taking one of his teams. He was so preoccupied that he never noticed that Iruka had finished his speech until he saw Naruto running over to the newly promoted Iruka. By then it was too late to grab the Genin, and Iruka was knocked to the ground. “Naruto, leave Iruka alone!” Kakashi shouted as he ran over to, however when he got closer, he could see that Iruka was laughing and hugging Naruto tightly.
“Thank you for the offer of dinner, Naruto-kun.” Iruka said as Naruto pulled away. “Maybe another night, I have a feeling that I’ll be busy tonight.” Naruto helped Iruka to his feet. “Thank you, Naruto.” Iruka’s eyes met Kakashi’s and, true to form, he blushed. “Kakashi-san, Naruto meant no harm.” Iruka said. “You should know by now that he is an excitable boy.” Kakashi only nodded.
“Very well, Iruka, I’ll let him off with it this time.” Kakashi glared at Naruto, his eye telling him that if he dared to think of doing that again he was in serious trouble. “Iruka-san, I was wondering if you had anything planned for this afternoon.” Kakashi said, seeing Iruka’s blush deepen. “I thought that since you were taking on one of my teams that you would like the notes I made about them on missions.” Kakashi looked at Naruto. “I want you to tell the others that I hope to see them all training, I don’t care if Yusuke, Hiei and Shuichi are Iruka’s, there is always room for improvement.” He started walking in the direction of his apartment. “Come along, Iruka.”
“I don’t mind doing that now, Kakashi.” Iruka said as he followed Kakashi through the streets. “I’m sorry that the Hokage took the boys away from you. To be honest, I thought I saw the back of them when they graduated.” Kakashi smiled under his mask, he had a feeling that it was Iruka who had told the Hokage that he was having problems. In all honesty, he didn’t mind that it had been told to the Hokage. In fact it felt as though a weight had been lifted from his shoulders. “How have the boys been getting on?” Iruka asked as they stopped in front of a building.
“As well as could be expected.” Kakashi said as he unlocked the door and entered, followed by Iruka. “Please take a seat, I’ll get the notes that I have written. I’ll be back in a moment.” Iruka looked around the living room. Kakashi’s sitting room was similar to what Iruka had expected. It was clean and tidy, with very little telling you about the ninja who lived there. He saw two pictures on a sideboard; one had a young Kakashi in it with two others his age and one older. Iruka recognized him as the Fourth Hokage; the blond spiky hair gave him away. “That is Rin and Uchiha Obito.” Kakashi said from the doorway. “We were in the same Team under the Fourth Hokage. Now I’m the only one still alive.” Iruka turned around to face Kakashi, before walking to the sofa and sat down, Kakashi sitting next to him, showing him a book that he kept. Taking the book Iruka read through the notes of what the missions involved and how each of the three boys did.
“You keep accurate records, Kakashi.” Iruka said as he finished the two mission records. “Thank you for allowing me to see what I have to work with.” He said, closing the book. “I hope I can keep such records myself.” He forced himself to stifle a yawn, the lack of sleep was finally catching up with him.
“Would you like something to eat?” Kakashi asked as he stood up. He didn’t like eating if he had guests, and they weren’t eating also. Iruka nodded. “I’m afraid that I just have ramen-in-a-cup at the moment. I haven’t had the chance to do much shopping. I hope it will be satisfactory.” Kakashi went to the kitchen and made up two of the cups, and called Iruka through and motioned for Iruka to take a seat. “Here you go.” He said, setting the cup in front of Iruka.
Once they had finished eating, they went back to the sofa. By now Iruka’s eyes were beginning to close, and Kakashi, wordlessly, draped an arm around Iruka’s shoulders. It was obvious that the younger man was exhausted and Kakashi was lending him some support. It didn’t take long for Iruka to fall asleep. Gently, as not to waken Iruka, Kakashi applied enough chakra to his hand to support Iruka’s weight. Then he picked up the sleeping Jounin in his arms and walked to his bedroom, gently lying Iruka on his bed, before removing his headband, amour and sandals. “Really, Iruka-san, did you really have to fall asleep here?” Kakashi asked as he closed his bedroom door and started to clean up.
A few hours later and Iruka woke up with a start. He knew that he wasn't in his own room, and if he wasn't in his own apartment, where was he? "You're finally awake." He heard a well known voice say. "I feared that I would have to kiss you to see if that would waken you." The voice joked. Iruka looked over at Kakashi. "You fell asleep against me earlier, so I put you to bed. I hope you dont mind." Iruka slowly sat up. "I made sure that your team knew that you weren't going to oversee their training too." Kakashi's eye gleamed. "You know, you may as well stay for dinner. I have already started cooking." Kakashi stared at the younger man. "Intending on getting up any time soon?" He asked, teasing Iruka further. He then left to check on their dinner. He didn't really know much about Iruka, and that stretched to what he liked to eat. He had seen Iruka treat Naruto to ramen, but he had never seen the quiet man out anywhere else. It wasn't long until he heard the soft footsteps of his companion. "It's almost ready, Iruka-kun." Kakashi said, grinning under his mask. The other Jounin blushed as once more he took a seat at the table. "Feel free to help yourself." Kakashi lowered his mask to enjoy his meal.
The silence wasn't so strained now as it had been before. "This is great." Iruka said in quiet appreciation. "Kakashi-kun, you are spoiling me." Kakashi laughed at the remark. "If you aren't careful, you may end up with me on your doorstep every night I can't be bothered cooking for myself." Iruka's black eyes met Kakashi's own eye, and the look he got made him blush. Kakashi's eye closed in what would have been a wink had both eyes been availavle to consult.
"Feel free to drop by, Iruka-kun. We now have quite a lot to discuss, don't we?" Kakashi said, smile gracing his lips. "I have your Naruto for you to check on and you have a team that was once mine." Iruka nodded as he slurped a noodle up. Kakashi turned his attention to his own dinner. "I think that I could grow to enjoy your company more than I do the other Jounins. Then again it wouldn't take much to beat the company of Maito Gai." Iruka laughed. He had heard of the rivalry between the two Jounins, who hadn't? He also knew that the taijutsu expert was winning in the matches, by only one point though. Kakashi had won 49 bouts, while Gai had won 50.
Once the meal was finished, Iruka helped Kakashi to wash up. "That was wonderful, Kakashi-kun." Iruka said happily. "I wish that my cooking was half as good as yours." They moved into the sitting room, where Kakashi poured them both some Saki. "Thank you, Kakashi-kn." Iruka said as he took the drink. "This is much better than I thought the day would be. I don't like crowds." Iruka laughed nervously. "I just hope that they aren't waiting for me now or else I'm screwed." The words made Kakashi laugh.
"I am sure that they have given up on you now." He said. "I think that they would have got the idea that you're not wanting to be in a large croud when you left with me." Kakashi thought for a moment. "I just hope that Gai-san hasn't started spreading rumours anout us being in the 'springtime of youth'. He has a nasty habit of doing that to me." Iruka looked at Kakashi questioningly, making Kakashi sigh. "You don't understand what I meant, do you? Gai-san will spread it that we were... intimate." That made Iruka's blush return 100-fold. "I'm not worried about it myself, however you are different. I don't want you to get teased because of him." Kakashi looked away from Iruka, he was glad that his mask hid the blush that was over his cheeks. "I'm used to his jibes, but you're innocent in all this. I won't have you needlessly dragged through this to satisfy him."
"Kakashi-kun, I can protect myself." Iruka said. "Trust me, I can strike fear into anyone when pushed far enough." His eyes closed as he smiled. "Even a seasoned Jounin like Gai wouldn't be able to deal with me then." He heard Kakashi laugh quietly. "Just ask my old students what I was like especially Naruto. He got more tongue lashings than the rest of the class put together." Only then did he notice the time. "Kakashi-kun, I better go. It's getting rather late." Iruka stood up, followed by Kakashi. "Thank you for this afternoon. It was really appreciated, Kakashi-kun."
"I'm glad that you enjoyed it, Iruka." Kakashi said as he, too, got to his feet. "If you do not mind, I'll walk you home. I'll know where you live then, and know where to go to get my dinner returned." He draped an arm around Iruka's shoulders. "Its only fair considering that you know where I live." Kakashi allowed Iruka to show the way to his own apartment, the older Jounin remembering the path easily, able to follow it to get there again. He was sure that he would be spending some time there, just as much as Iruka would likely be found at his.
Finally they stopped in front of Iruka's appartment. "Please, come in, Kakashi-kun." Iruka said with a grin. I'll make some tea or coffee if you prefer." Kakashi followed Iruka inside. Half an hour later the two Jounin went their seperate ways for the night, agreeing to meet together with their teams the next day to do some training.
Disclaimer: See Chapter 1
"You want us to do what?" Yusuke asked angrily as he glared at Kakashi, who had returned to reading 'Icha Icha Paradise'. "What kind of mission is picking up rubbish?" Kakashi continued reading; having long ago gotten used to Naruto's protests. He knew that sooner or later Yusuke would give up, and then they could carry on with the mission.
From where he was standing, Iruka could see that having two teams was tiring Kakashi's mental stamina, especially as he had a copy of Naruto in the second group. However he also knew about his Jounin friend's stubborn nature, that he wouldn't ask for help and Iruka knew of only one person that could make Kakashi give up one of the teams. In a swirl of leaves, Iruka disappeared to ask for an audience with the Hokage.
The audience was quickly granted, it was surprising since it was so early in the morning, especially since the Hokage had not yet met with his advisors. "How are you, Hokage-sama?" Iruka asked as he was admitted into the chamber, giving a bow to the head of Konoha village. The Hokage motioned for Iruka to take a seat, which the Chuunin accepted gratefully. "Thank you, Hokage-sama." He said as the Hokage sat also
"What seems to be the problem, Iruka?" The Hokage asked. "It is quite early for you to be here. How is Kuwabara Kazuma doing?" The Hokage asked as he motioned for tea to be poured for both himself and his Chuunin companion. "How is he faring with being in a group of ten-year-olds?" The aide finished pouring the cups and left the room. Lifting the cup to his lips, the Hokage studied the young man before him. Something seemed to be troubling the young man greatly, and it was anybody's guess what it was.
"Kazuma-san is doing well, if slowly." Iruka said. "He maybe older than his peers, but he is improving quicker now than when he was being taught with his friends." Iruka said as the Hokage sipped the hot beverage. "However, the main reason that I asked for an audience with you is that I am worried about Kakashi-kun. I fear that two teams could be too much for him to handle, perhaps it wouldn't be so if Yusuke-san and Naruto-kun were different, but that isn't an option with them." He picked up his cup. "Hokage, only you can stop this fiasco before our Copy Ninja has to be hospitalized to save his sanity, his mind is fractured enough as it is." The Hokage laughed as he filled his pipe with tobacco.
"Give Kakashi another week, and if things haven't improved we shall find another to take over Kakashi's second team." The Hokage lit the pipe and smiled. "Thank you for bringing your worries to my attention, Iruka, your concern is appreciated." Iruka nodded as he drank his tea. "You have become close to Kakashi since he’s taken on Naruto, haven't you? How is he getting on with him and Uchiha Sasuke? I heard that they have a little rivalry going on between each other."
Iruka blushed at the mention of Kakashi's name. "Kakashi is getting on well, and I think that he has sorted out most of the problems between the boys, however as long as Naruto and Sasuke are in the same level of ninja life they will always be rivals, and they could only get better and better." He smiled slightly. "They both keep our Kakashi Hatake on his feet. Sometimes I get to sit down with him and Naruto between missions and they seem to enjoy the company of the group. Iruka set down his cup. "Please excuse me, Hokage-sama, but I need to prepare for my next class." The Hokage nodded and allowed Iruka to leave.
The Hokage sighed, it was all well and good that Iruka brought up the subject, however getting the solution would be another thing. Only a Jounin could train a Genin team, and the spare Jounin number were already on missions, and he was loathed to call back a Jounin team just to separate them up so one could take a Genin team. That left one other option; a Chuunin at the Village could be promoted to Jounin level, however it could take some time to choose the best candidate. He needed to have had plenty of experience in leading a team. He really needed to talk to his advisors about this.
One by one the advisors filed in, waiting until each had taken their place before the Hokage welcomed them. "Welcome, my friends." The Hokage said as his eyes looked from one face to the next. "I'm glad to see that you're all well. My esteemed colleagues, we have a decision to make, regarding who is going to take on Hatake Kakashi’s second team. It has been brought to my attention that he is having difficulty with training both teams, however I do not wish to call back a Jounin team just to place a Genin team under one of them, especially since we have a few Chuunin in the village who have no missions at the moment." He placed the piles of Chuunin profiles in front of the Advisors.
"Then we are to decide upon a Chuunin to promote then." One of the Advisors stated as he pulled some of the profiles towards him. "Hokage-sama, to get the right candidate could take quite some time." One by one he looked at the profiles that he had taken and set some to one side, those were the profiles of the Chuunin level teachers. "We need all the teachers that we can get." He said, "I believe that we shouldn't touch them unless we really have nowhere else to turn." The others agreed as they all took a pile to study, and to compare all the necessary qualities a good Jounin needed.
It took three very long days for the advisors to decide that none of the non-teaching staff qualified for what they thought they needed. Then one advisor came up with an idea. "Hokage-sama, why don't we promote Umino Iruka?" He asked. "He can handle his own with problem students. Also, I believe, he has taught them before, therefore he would know their personalities better than a stranger would." The other advisors agreed with that, and the Hokage nodded before asking for a vote on the matter, the majority agreed that Iruka would be the best choice.
"Then it is settled. Our new Jounin shall be Umino Iruka." He said, announcing it as though he had made the decision himself. "We need to arrange things for the announcement." The Hokage knew that Iruka would be shocked to learn that he would be the one that would be dealing with his own request, however the hardest part would be prying Yusuke, Hiei and Kurama away from Kakashi's grip. He knew just how protective a Jounin got over a team, he remembered what he was like with Jiraiya, Tsunade and Orochimaru. How proud he was when they became the Legendary Sannin, and also the heartache when Orochimaru turned against Konoha, choosing to become a missing-nin. The memories, both the good and the bad, would be with him forever.
“So what do you wish to do now, Hokage-sama?” One of the advisers asked, knocking the Hokage out of his memories. “When would you like Iruka informed of his promotion?” The Hokage looked up. “Hokage-sama?”
“I shall inform Iruka myself.” The Hokage said, straighten9ing his hat. “Could you start on the preparations for the ceremony, we shall do it tomorrow at noon. The sooner we can sort out Kakashi’s predicament the better.” The advisers nodded as they left the room to start on the preparations for the Hokage. The Hokage rested his head on his hands, it didn’t seem that long since Iruka was in the Academy, causing almost as much trouble as Naruto had. Now Iruka was going to be Konoha’s newest Jounin, and have a Genin team of his own. Where had all the time gone? It would do no good sitting down, daydreaming of what had been. The Hokage stood up, brushed down his clothing, and left for Iruka’s apartment.
A knock on the door woke Iruka from his pleasant slumber. His dreams had taken a delightful turn, and he was loathed to give it up. He was in the arms of a certain grey-haired Jounin, having the breath kissed out of him. He had caught a glimpse of Kakashi’s face under the mask a couple of times, and it gave him something to dream about. The knock happened again, forcing Iruka to get up. It was too early for all of this. “I’m coming, I’m coming.” He grumbled, rubbing his eyes as he walked to the door, opening it. The sight of the Hokage standing there, made Iruka blush, self-conscious of the fact that he was wearing only pajama pants, which didn’t hide much. “Hokage-sama, what a surprise, please come in. I’ll just change into something more presentable.” The Hokage chuckled as Iruka ran into his bedroom to change, and a moment later, Iruka returned wearing his body suit. “What can I do for you?”
“It’s not what you can do for me, but what I can do for you.” The Hokage said. Seeing Iruka blush, he thought ‘And people say that Kakashi has an overactive imagination because of his ‘Icha Icha’ books.’ He allowed a few moments of silence before putting Iruka out of his misery. “I have spoken with my advisers and we have come to a conclusion that we need a new Jounin to take Kakashi’s second team and, through a majority vote, you were selected.” The look on Iruka’s face was priceless. “I shall leave you to digest the news. Your promotion ceremony is tomorrow at noon.” With that the Hokage left.
Two hours later and Iruka had barely moved except to sit down. Never had he thought that he would become a Jounin, yet many ninjas had become a Jounin at a much younger age than he was at now. He thought that his teaching ability would have stood against him, but seemingly not. His mind was shaken up, he wanted to scream his joy from the top of the faces of the four Hokage.
Kakashi knew something was happening, he could feel it in the air. Suddenly one of the aides to the Hokage walked up to him. “Kakashi-san, your presence is asked for by the Hokage. You and your two Genin teams are to see him as soon as you possibly can get there.” Kakashi nodded and started looking for his teams.
Ten minutes later, Kakashi and his Genins were standing outside the Hokage’s office. Kakashi had spent most of the time telling both Naruto and Yusuke that he honestly had no idea why the Hokage had summoned them. A moment later and an aide opened the door, showing them in. “Thank you for coming, please take a seat.” The Hokage said, relighting his pipe as the seven sat down. “What I have to say is very important as it affects all of you. Kakashi, it has been brought to my attention that you have been having some problems with having the two teams to look after.” The Hokage raised his hands to stop Kakashi’s indignant outburst. “The person that informed me was worried about you, and that is why Yusuke, Hiei and Kurama are being given to our newly selected Jounin. Trust me, they will be well cared for. The promotion ceremony is at noon tomorrow. You should attend it. You may go.” Kakashi and the others left, shocked at the announcement. That day was the last that they would have together as a group.
Iruka was awake most of the night, he was so nervous and it was affecting his stomach so much that he couldn’t eat. He wanted the ceremony to be over without a fuss, even though he had a good idea that some of the Jounins that were in the village would drag him out. Then there was Kakashi, the mere thought of the Sharingan-using ninja made him blush. What would Kakashi think of him stealing away his subordinates? He was mostly sure that Kakashi would be happy for him, happy that he was a Jounin anyway.
The closer it got to noon, the more nervous Iruka got. He finished getting ready, barely able to tie the forehead protector in place. He was now ready, leaving himself just enough time to get to the ceremony before the majority of those attending it got there.
From where Iruka was standing, he could see all the Jounins that had subordinate Genins, Kakashi standing to one side, he seemed down. However before Iruka could go over there and see if he was okay, the Hokage called for everybody’s attention. “Thank you for attending at such short notice.” He said, looking at Iruka. “As you all know, I have called you all here because I decided that another Jounin is required and I am going to introduce you to him now.” He motioned for Iruka to stand beside him. “I am sure that you all recognize Umino Iruka, one of the Chuunin instructors at our Academy. He has accepted the position of Jounin, and will be taking over the training of Urameshi Yusuke, Uchiha Hiei and Minamino Shuichi from Hatake Kakashi as of today.”
‘So Iruka will be taking them. The Hokage was correct about them being in good hands.’ Kakashi thought as he watched the rest of the ceremony. As a Jounin it was almost necessary for him to be there, even more so since Iruka would be taking one of his teams. He was so preoccupied that he never noticed that Iruka had finished his speech until he saw Naruto running over to the newly promoted Iruka. By then it was too late to grab the Genin, and Iruka was knocked to the ground. “Naruto, leave Iruka alone!” Kakashi shouted as he ran over to, however when he got closer, he could see that Iruka was laughing and hugging Naruto tightly.
“Thank you for the offer of dinner, Naruto-kun.” Iruka said as Naruto pulled away. “Maybe another night, I have a feeling that I’ll be busy tonight.” Naruto helped Iruka to his feet. “Thank you, Naruto.” Iruka’s eyes met Kakashi’s and, true to form, he blushed. “Kakashi-san, Naruto meant no harm.” Iruka said. “You should know by now that he is an excitable boy.” Kakashi only nodded.
“Very well, Iruka, I’ll let him off with it this time.” Kakashi glared at Naruto, his eye telling him that if he dared to think of doing that again he was in serious trouble. “Iruka-san, I was wondering if you had anything planned for this afternoon.” Kakashi said, seeing Iruka’s blush deepen. “I thought that since you were taking on one of my teams that you would like the notes I made about them on missions.” Kakashi looked at Naruto. “I want you to tell the others that I hope to see them all training, I don’t care if Yusuke, Hiei and Shuichi are Iruka’s, there is always room for improvement.” He started walking in the direction of his apartment. “Come along, Iruka.”
“I don’t mind doing that now, Kakashi.” Iruka said as he followed Kakashi through the streets. “I’m sorry that the Hokage took the boys away from you. To be honest, I thought I saw the back of them when they graduated.” Kakashi smiled under his mask, he had a feeling that it was Iruka who had told the Hokage that he was having problems. In all honesty, he didn’t mind that it had been told to the Hokage. In fact it felt as though a weight had been lifted from his shoulders. “How have the boys been getting on?” Iruka asked as they stopped in front of a building.
“As well as could be expected.” Kakashi said as he unlocked the door and entered, followed by Iruka. “Please take a seat, I’ll get the notes that I have written. I’ll be back in a moment.” Iruka looked around the living room. Kakashi’s sitting room was similar to what Iruka had expected. It was clean and tidy, with very little telling you about the ninja who lived there. He saw two pictures on a sideboard; one had a young Kakashi in it with two others his age and one older. Iruka recognized him as the Fourth Hokage; the blond spiky hair gave him away. “That is Rin and Uchiha Obito.” Kakashi said from the doorway. “We were in the same Team under the Fourth Hokage. Now I’m the only one still alive.” Iruka turned around to face Kakashi, before walking to the sofa and sat down, Kakashi sitting next to him, showing him a book that he kept. Taking the book Iruka read through the notes of what the missions involved and how each of the three boys did.
“You keep accurate records, Kakashi.” Iruka said as he finished the two mission records. “Thank you for allowing me to see what I have to work with.” He said, closing the book. “I hope I can keep such records myself.” He forced himself to stifle a yawn, the lack of sleep was finally catching up with him.
“Would you like something to eat?” Kakashi asked as he stood up. He didn’t like eating if he had guests, and they weren’t eating also. Iruka nodded. “I’m afraid that I just have ramen-in-a-cup at the moment. I haven’t had the chance to do much shopping. I hope it will be satisfactory.” Kakashi went to the kitchen and made up two of the cups, and called Iruka through and motioned for Iruka to take a seat. “Here you go.” He said, setting the cup in front of Iruka.
Once they had finished eating, they went back to the sofa. By now Iruka’s eyes were beginning to close, and Kakashi, wordlessly, draped an arm around Iruka’s shoulders. It was obvious that the younger man was exhausted and Kakashi was lending him some support. It didn’t take long for Iruka to fall asleep. Gently, as not to waken Iruka, Kakashi applied enough chakra to his hand to support Iruka’s weight. Then he picked up the sleeping Jounin in his arms and walked to his bedroom, gently lying Iruka on his bed, before removing his headband, amour and sandals. “Really, Iruka-san, did you really have to fall asleep here?” Kakashi asked as he closed his bedroom door and started to clean up.
A few hours later and Iruka woke up with a start. He knew that he wasn't in his own room, and if he wasn't in his own apartment, where was he? "You're finally awake." He heard a well known voice say. "I feared that I would have to kiss you to see if that would waken you." The voice joked. Iruka looked over at Kakashi. "You fell asleep against me earlier, so I put you to bed. I hope you dont mind." Iruka slowly sat up. "I made sure that your team knew that you weren't going to oversee their training too." Kakashi's eye gleamed. "You know, you may as well stay for dinner. I have already started cooking." Kakashi stared at the younger man. "Intending on getting up any time soon?" He asked, teasing Iruka further. He then left to check on their dinner. He didn't really know much about Iruka, and that stretched to what he liked to eat. He had seen Iruka treat Naruto to ramen, but he had never seen the quiet man out anywhere else. It wasn't long until he heard the soft footsteps of his companion. "It's almost ready, Iruka-kun." Kakashi said, grinning under his mask. The other Jounin blushed as once more he took a seat at the table. "Feel free to help yourself." Kakashi lowered his mask to enjoy his meal.
The silence wasn't so strained now as it had been before. "This is great." Iruka said in quiet appreciation. "Kakashi-kun, you are spoiling me." Kakashi laughed at the remark. "If you aren't careful, you may end up with me on your doorstep every night I can't be bothered cooking for myself." Iruka's black eyes met Kakashi's own eye, and the look he got made him blush. Kakashi's eye closed in what would have been a wink had both eyes been availavle to consult.
"Feel free to drop by, Iruka-kun. We now have quite a lot to discuss, don't we?" Kakashi said, smile gracing his lips. "I have your Naruto for you to check on and you have a team that was once mine." Iruka nodded as he slurped a noodle up. Kakashi turned his attention to his own dinner. "I think that I could grow to enjoy your company more than I do the other Jounins. Then again it wouldn't take much to beat the company of Maito Gai." Iruka laughed. He had heard of the rivalry between the two Jounins, who hadn't? He also knew that the taijutsu expert was winning in the matches, by only one point though. Kakashi had won 49 bouts, while Gai had won 50.
Once the meal was finished, Iruka helped Kakashi to wash up. "That was wonderful, Kakashi-kun." Iruka said happily. "I wish that my cooking was half as good as yours." They moved into the sitting room, where Kakashi poured them both some Saki. "Thank you, Kakashi-kn." Iruka said as he took the drink. "This is much better than I thought the day would be. I don't like crowds." Iruka laughed nervously. "I just hope that they aren't waiting for me now or else I'm screwed." The words made Kakashi laugh.
"I am sure that they have given up on you now." He said. "I think that they would have got the idea that you're not wanting to be in a large croud when you left with me." Kakashi thought for a moment. "I just hope that Gai-san hasn't started spreading rumours anout us being in the 'springtime of youth'. He has a nasty habit of doing that to me." Iruka looked at Kakashi questioningly, making Kakashi sigh. "You don't understand what I meant, do you? Gai-san will spread it that we were... intimate." That made Iruka's blush return 100-fold. "I'm not worried about it myself, however you are different. I don't want you to get teased because of him." Kakashi looked away from Iruka, he was glad that his mask hid the blush that was over his cheeks. "I'm used to his jibes, but you're innocent in all this. I won't have you needlessly dragged through this to satisfy him."
"Kakashi-kun, I can protect myself." Iruka said. "Trust me, I can strike fear into anyone when pushed far enough." His eyes closed as he smiled. "Even a seasoned Jounin like Gai wouldn't be able to deal with me then." He heard Kakashi laugh quietly. "Just ask my old students what I was like especially Naruto. He got more tongue lashings than the rest of the class put together." Only then did he notice the time. "Kakashi-kun, I better go. It's getting rather late." Iruka stood up, followed by Kakashi. "Thank you for this afternoon. It was really appreciated, Kakashi-kun."
"I'm glad that you enjoyed it, Iruka." Kakashi said as he, too, got to his feet. "If you do not mind, I'll walk you home. I'll know where you live then, and know where to go to get my dinner returned." He draped an arm around Iruka's shoulders. "Its only fair considering that you know where I live." Kakashi allowed Iruka to show the way to his own apartment, the older Jounin remembering the path easily, able to follow it to get there again. He was sure that he would be spending some time there, just as much as Iruka would likely be found at his.
Finally they stopped in front of Iruka's appartment. "Please, come in, Kakashi-kun." Iruka said with a grin. I'll make some tea or coffee if you prefer." Kakashi followed Iruka inside. Half an hour later the two Jounin went their seperate ways for the night, agreeing to meet together with their teams the next day to do some training.