Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Inner Secrets ❯ Chapter 12

Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto, and I realized I stated before that I own nothing, but then I just now realized that I already have a published work. ^^' Which means I own that.

 

Pairings: Last chapter had the list and there were questions on how Shikamaru could be a seme, trust me it works, but you'll just have to wait and see.

 

Warnings: Violence, language, eventual boyXboy in later chapters and so on and so forth.

 

AN: Woot, thank you all so much for all the reviews. Happy words make me like/want to write faster and get the update up sooner. ^.^ As for classes and jobs… they are crazy, but they pay off in the end, whether as a check or as a diploma… Oh and a cookie for all those who saw/noticed the foreshadowing relationship between Neji and Shikamaru. Anyways, on with the Twelfth Chapter!

 

Chapter 12

 

“Why have you come?” Sarutobi questioned, sounding as old as he looked. “What do you hope to gain by doing all this?” He asked as he motioned at the mayhem below.

 

“Such a fool you are. But that is beside the point. I'm here for two reasons.” He said sinisterly as he flipped his long hair over his shoulder. “I am here to take Sasuke-kun, who will become my next; and Naruto who will become my most loyal servant. And the second reason: to destroy you and all of Konoha along with you!” He finished with demented laughter that traveled far and chilled many to the bone.

 

“So you have truly gone insane.” The Hokage sighed sadly as he pinched the bridge of his nose. “I had hoped that was not the case, but I see that, that hope was squandered from the very beginning. But I suppose in my old age I began to believe that all souls were able to be forgiven, but that was only an illusion.” He said as he tossed his pipe to the ground, scattering the ashes and burning coals to the winds.

 

“Foolish indeed!” Orochimaru said silkily, golden eyes alight with a twisted insanity. “You are indeed getting old, just to think that you would think I was still good even after I murdered and tortured others just for immortality's sake. You've gotten too old to be wise.” He concluded with a tsking noise as he shook his finger at the other.

 

“Though I may be old, if there is a possibility that my mind and wit is failing, I will not let you take down this village, nor allow you to get your tainted hands on those two boys.” He vowed as he pulled his hat and his robes from his body revealing his old ninja battle armor.

 

“Judging by your apparel I'd say you anticipated a disturbance.” Orochimaru chuckled as he noted his mentor's worn outfit. “But I daresay that your outfit looks even more ancient than you. Is that a testimony to your current standing?” He teased in a slick voice just as Genma, and Raidou appeared beside Sarutobi.

 

“Orochimaru-sama.” Genma greeted with a frown and a disrespectful nod as he flicked his Senbon in annoyance. “Hokage-sama, there are great snakes running rampart through the village, along with both Sand and Sound Ninja. Your orders?” He asked obediently.

 

“Go. Defend the Village and help insure its survival.” He said sagely, eyes not once leaving his former pupil's. “I will take care of Orochimaru, just make sure the village still stands at the end of this and that Uzumaki Naruto and Uchiha Sasuke are part of the remaining population.” He finished with a saddened tone.

 

Raidou and Genma left, even though they both strongly desired to remain and help their leader, they knew they had to obey their orders. But both of them had a feeling that it would be the last time they would see life through that old man's eyes.

 

“I can promise you no interference from outside sources.” Sarutobi stated. “But I doubt you can promise the same, what with those four people lurking and waiting for your orders.” He concluded as he stared deeply into Orochimaru's eyes. “Where have I gone wrong with you?” He whispered sadly.

 

“So you noticed!” Orochimaru said happily before motioning for his subordinates to come out.

 

“Orochimaru-sama.” They all said in unison before kneeling down in a bow behind his back, their eyes focused on the ground as they awaited orders.

 

“These are my precious subordinates. They were once known as the Sound Five, but as you can see there are only four of them.” He finished with an air of disappointment. “The fifth one, he is not here. But he was the perfect vessel until illness rendered him useless.” The snake summoner concluded with a deep sigh.

 

“Vessel?” The old man asked, catching that word above all the others.

 

“Oh! That's right!” He chuckled. “I forgot to tell you I perfected my immortality technique. The flesh wears thin over time, and so when that time comes I simply transfer my mind and soul over to another, younger more healthy body. I have made a way to immortalize myself, and it gives me the ability to take over all blood trait abilities of my vessel.”

 

“You want the Sharingan.” Sarutobi whispered with a frown.

 

“Yes. Those eyes, if they could make it to the same level as Itachi's, I would be invincible.” He sighed happily.

 

“You've lost to a child.” Sarutobi summed up. “You lost to a prodigy child and you desire the same eyes so that you might gain a fraction of a chance at being able to defeat him.” He stated. “It won't work. Sasuke's body isn't that of a prodigy's. He wouldn't be able to hold the strength you desire. He would cease to exist and you along with him.”

 

“Silence you old fool!” Orochimaru ordered venomously, his eyes dangerously narrowed.

 

“I see I've touched a nerve. Are you afraid to die? Afraid to die at the hands of a mere child, one who has not a single emotion? Do you fear his reactions or lack thereof?” Sarutobi asked in all seriousness. “Do you fear the power he could garner from within that organization he is in? Do you loath the time that passes you by, every second a chance that he acquired one of the demon vessels's and absorbed his or her demon?”

 

“I told you to be silent you old bastard!” Orochimaru snarled as he slapped the man, using the sound of skin smashing against skin to calm himself back into his untouchable attitude. “You do not know of what you speak old man. But I will take your words to heart. If Sasuke-kun won't make a proper vessel for me, I'll have him sire the perfect son for me to become.” The Sannin chuckled.

 

“Not a daughter?” The Hokage asked, inwardly plotting to buy the village and all its protectors' time to destroy the other intruders leaving Orochimaru and his Sound Four without back up.

 

“No.” Orochimaru sneered with distaste. “Women are weak.” He stated calmly.

 

“Even Tsunade?” Sarutobi questioned.

 

“Yes. Even her, she may still be stronger than the average person, but she is the weakest of the Sannin. She's worse then Jiraiya-san.” He admitted casually.

 

“That will one day be your downfall. I taught you better than underestimating your enemies.” Sarutobi chided with a deep sigh. “But I suppose that was one of many lessons I taught you, yet you blatantly ignored. I should expect no more then pure rebelliousness and dementedness from your hands and mind.”

 

“You and your attempts to be wise are amusing.” Orochimaru said with a slight nod. “But I'm afraid that the time for lessons in life and proper etiquette are over. Now, you and I will fight to the death. I will prove that the student has surpassed the teacher.” He vowed before nodding over his shoulder to the Sound Four, who in turn rose and hopped off into a large and open rectangular position around their boss and their enemy.

 

“Yon Fuu: Kei Tate!” Four voices intoned together.

 

A great ominous wall rose from the four, encasing their boss and the old man in a rectangular prison where they would have to fight to the death for the shield would not fall otherwise.

 

“You will die here.” Orochimaru promised with a warped sneer. “I will bathe in your old blood, and savor my immortality and mock you even when you've passed the gates to hell.” He added with a sinister laugh that caused Sarutobi to flinch fractionally. “You're already trembling in your sandals.” He ridiculed with a dark look as he shook his finger in an irritated manner.

 

“Orochimaru… When we last met I was too afraid to harm you. I still held the belief that you could be reconciled, but now I know that you are a lost cause. One that should be eliminated before you can cause any more pain and suffering. I will do all within my power to hinder your foul plans. Be prepared student-mine, this teacher still has one last lesson to teach.” Satutobi declared with the inferno of determination smoldering in his sagely eyes.

 

- - - - - - - - - - -

 

“Where are we?!?!?” Shukaku growled deeply, his colossal voice causing the Earth herself to shudder. “Where have you taken me?!?!” He demanded in an unfathomable rage that took his entire body over.

 

“To the forest.” Kyuubi stated calmly, his ruby eyes shining in a promise of death. “This way you and your fat ass, not too mention oversized ego won't harm nor squish the innocent. After all, I need to annihilate your control and make sane the insane child within your treacherous claws.” He said with a careless shrug, undaunted by the task ahead.

 

“You won't get that far! I'll eat you whole!” Shukaku chuckled madly before switching to a snarl as he growled.

 

“Talk about split personalities...” Kyuubi muttered, though his host nodded in silent agreement with his assessment.

 

“Shut up!!” The Raccoon-dog roared in a pissed fashion.

 

“Could you cease to be such a loud annoyance?” Kyuubi questioned innocently as he further lengthened his chakra control, drawing out a fourth tail. “Or I could permanently silence you; after all I have eight tails more then you on a normal basis.” Kyuubi sighed, wondering his limit in the mortal body.

 

“You dare challenge the great Shukaku?!” The Demon guffawed in sheer insanity, looking much the part of a rabid dog, and yet he smiled. He smiled like the Devil Himself, horrid, terrifying and promising many ghastly plagues and sufferings upon all.

 

“Dare?” The fox demon chuckled in amusement, a small smirk playing about his lips. “You make it sound like a child could confront you. As for the great part, well I'll just chalk that up to insanity induced hallucinations. Quite the scary picture you are presenting, I'm sure you would do well stalking children in the night.” The fox said, crimson eyes alight with an inner fire.

 

With a maniacal growl of unadulterated rage, the large one tailed demon lashed out.

 

Sand formed claws struck out, swinging like mass blades on guillotines, moving swiftly to draw the blood of the victim below. Kyuubi smirked as he ducked under the assault. “You do realize that when you're as big as you are, attacking like that leaves many openings for my escape.” The demon teased as he landed on his attacker's out-stretched arm in a squatting position.

 

“I told you to shut up!” Fumed the sand-user demon.

 

“I do suppose no one told you that you can't always get what you want.” Kyuubi muttered offhandedly, yet his adversary heard the words loud and clear, resulting in yet another snarl. “Are you angry?” Kyuubi asked in mock concern as he held a hand to his heart while leaping over a lashing tail. “It would seem you are. I suggest you go get professional help, it isn't wise to bottle up such a strong unfulfilled rage like yours.” The kitsune advised before leaping once more, this time getting a small graze across his left arm.

 

“You just got slower!!” Shukaku snarled devilishly, his clawed hand lashing out once again and hitting the dirt causing a great wave of dirt and plant life to rise up into the air before collapsing.

 

`Shit!' Kyuubi thought with a grimace as the sand-user's arm brushed against his stomach, it's coarse like skin acting like a file, scraping away both cloth and skin, leaving his stomach a road rash of burning pain. `I think I just found my vessel's present limit!' The fox noted with a frown, crimson eyes now matching the life nectar that was flowing freely from his stomach where the skin was missing.

 

`We'll just have to find a way to make sure I could handle your full prowess.' Naruto spoke up in encouragement, blue eyes, which were filled with determination, were locked onto the monstrosity before him.

 

“Time to get serious!” Kyuubi said with a smirk as the scratch on his arm and the missing skin on his stomach healed over, leaving not a single scar.

 

---Flashback--

 

“Naru-chan!” Neji called out, causing the blond to freeze where he stood, blue eyes eyeing an old tome that was thick with dust.

 

“Neji-kun… Did you just call me `Naru-chan?'“ Naruto questioned slowly as he spun leisurely around, eyes moving from the dusty book to his dark haired friend.

 

“Yes, I did.” Neji admitted uncaringly as he held out a great black, leather bound book. “It was the fastest way to firmly grab your attention.” He explained uncaringly, ignoring the looks he was getting from his two dear friends. “Come look at this book.”

 

Curiosity gripping the two preteens, causing their feet to move them towards the Hyuuga prodigy, eyes eyeing the book in his hands. “I take it that, that book holds something quite fascinating?” Naruto voiced as both he and Shikamaru made it to Neji.

 

“Indeed it is.” Neji answered mysteriously as he opened the book, allowing his friends to read the first line. And that line was enough for both of them to widen their eyes in shock.

 

--End Flashback--

 

“Ranpu Sutairu: Kaen no Gin Joukei!” Kyuubi called, causing his eyes to turn from crimson to molten silver that swirled eerily, dancing like the fires from Hell. The world took on a great barrage of colors, each shade, tone and structure blared out at him in a tender yet sharp fashion.

 

“You are within my Silver Sight.” Kyuubi said calmly as his chakra changed to pure silver, and a fifth tail of chakra to appear amongst the others. “I will erase all limits this body may have; I'll make them a memory.” The fox swore causing the silver chakra around him to pulse lightly.

 

“Provide me with thin strength.” The blond whispered before a violent wind swirled around the two demons, causing the long, lagged and golden locks to dance majestically.

 

Energy, life energy was drawn into Kyuubi, like spheres of white light disappearing into his body. The energy swirled around the silver chakra, leaving an intricate pattern that was hard to differentiate from the silver of before. “You will fall.” Kyuubi stated before racing forward, vanishing from even the demon eye.

 

“How dare you flee?!?!” Raged Shukaku, before he suddenly lurched forward, a great hole forming in his back as silver smoke rose into the air. “How?!?”

 

The fox reappeared before the great demon, eyes calm despite the raging energies. “Simple, you rely heavily upon that sand for offensive and defensive maneuvers. Meaning: it is tainted by the blood of many innocents. Something so blackened can not stand to touch holy light. As my vessel has not been touched by the taint of evil, his body remains unaffected by this power.” The demon explained half-heartedly which only served to further infuriate his enemy.

 

 

“I will destroy you!” Shukaku snarled venomously, crazed eyes narrowed.

 

“You're repeating yourself.” The nine tailed fox sighed before once again vanishing from view, causing the giant raccoon dog to whirl around, only to have a second hole blown in his right shoulder, taking out a chunk somewhat smaller than the last.

 

Kyuubi-Naruto came into view just to the left of Shukaku on a branch that brought the blond on level with his opponent's chin. At his side hung hid left arm, covered in bad burns that were slowly growing worse with ever minute that passed. `Crap.' Kyuubi cursed eloquently. `Sorry to say this but your body is weak.' The fox told his vessel with a calm tone.

 

“Looks like I'll have to put that into effect now.” The silver eyed demon muttered. With a hidden wince, the Kyuubi brought his arms up and formed several seals, while absently dodging great bombs of air courtesy of the sand demon. “Kuroppoi Natsuin: Hensen Tatazumai!” He shouted causing a light blue symbol to appear in the air before it shot out and hit the demon before him.

 

Silence fell and all movement seemingly halted.

 

The image of Shukaku collapsed in a tidal wave of sand that plummeted to the ground, covering the grass and dirt in a deep golden cover, and in the mist of it all lie the red haired ninja from the sand, green eyes half-way opened.

 

“Gaara-san.” Naruto stated as he and Kyuubi shifted positions and relinquished the hold on the demonic and holy chakra that had somehow merge together. Eyes returned to their deep blue, the scars dimmed down to pale scratches that were hardly visible to the human eye, and his hair returned to its proper length.

 

“Shukaku can no longer control you.” Naruto whispered as he moved over to the unmoving figure and knelt down beside him. “That demon is not your mother, nor someone you should believe.” He explained, knowing that the raccoon-dog had been infamous for his honeyed lies and sweet words. “You can live normally; being in full control over both yourself and the demon and… you can have friends.” The blond finished as he offered Gaara a hand.

 

Emerald green eyes snapped to the blue ones above, noting all the honesty, sincerity and whatever else that might have lurked behind those windows above. Though he could recognize those emotions, he himself had never felt them. And this was the first time they had been ever directed at him. It felt good to have someone care.

 

His attention then moved to the hand that waited just over him. Could he face all the tings he had been denied? Could he truly live freely, no longer being controlled? The blond above him, whose hand hovered outstretched, had done more for him than any other. Naruto had freed him, and was the first to offer friendship with such pure untainted eyes. The blond wouldn't hurt him, nor betray him.

 

`Yashamaru…' Gaara silently thought his face blank. `Even your eyes didn't look like this…' The red head thought before resolve slowly wrapped its coils around him. Perhaps he could try friendship and trust one more time.

 

Gaara took Naruto's hand and was gently helped to his feet. “We haven't been properly introduced.” Naruto said in realization, almost wanting to smack his head from such a mistake. “Uzumaki Naruto, Kyuubi's vessel.” The blond stated with a sly grin.

 

“Gaara of the Desert… Bearer of Shukaku.” Gaara said quietly just as Neji and Shikamaru arrived behind Naruto.

 

“Gaara, I know two others who would have interest in being your friends and they are the two that I trust most. Hyuuga Neji.” He motioned towards the prodigy of the Hyuuga clan. “And Nara Shikamaru.” He said while motioning towards the boy with the ponytail.

 

Both new comers nodded in proper greeting, Neji having seen the battle with his all seeing evil-eyes, and Shikamaru having heard the details from the former. They both knew that a friendship between the four of them would be useful and would expand into a great relationship.

 

- - - - - - - -

 

“And here I had thought you had one last lesson to teach me.” Orochimaru chuckled as he regarded the bloodied and battered old man that stood before him, panting in a way that no ninja should. “You're too old, and even with that great ape of yours you couldn't even scratch me, yet alone destroy the first and second Hokage.” He mocked as he motioned towards the mindless puppets that were the reincarnated leaders.

 

“You have failed in all your objectives old man. And soon I will acquire Sasuke-kun and Naruto-kun. Konoha will be destroyed, and at the hands of those two.” He cackled manically, his snake-like eyes widening in insane laughter.

 

“So long as there are people who care, people who are willing to fight for beliefs and people they love, people who will uphold the village honor and protect all its innocents, you will never win.” Sarutobi explained between short gasps for air. “Konoha is not just an individual place; it is a whole, one that is made by its people and its protectors. It will not fall to your corrupted hands, and I can promise you that its people and its allies will not allow this destruction.”

 

“Still telling foolish and happy stories even as death beckons on your door, lurking in your shadow.” The serpentine traitor said with an annoyed sigh.

 

“You wish to be immortal, and you desire the ability to use every Jutsu ever created, I will destroy your dream.” Sarutobi pledged with determination as he regarded his summon boss. “Allow me to show you a Jutsu that you have never seen.”

 

“Shishou Fuuin!” The Hokage shouted, causing an ominous figure to appear behind me. `So he is the death god, the one that haunts the shadows and seals the souls of those sacrificed in his stomach for all eternity.'

 

He rushed forward. Pat the Fist Hokage, and the Second, before coming up before Orochimaru just as the other suddenly froze in his place, unable to move. “What have you done to my body!?” Orochimaru demanded as he attempted to move even the slightest, yet it was to no avail.

 

“This state is currently the least of your problems, student mine.” He stated in an aged voice. “Do you know who lurks behind me? The God of Death stands there, and in his mouth in a blade that is ready to sever all souls from their bodies. Judging by your stunned and somewhat frightened look, you have concluded which technique this is.” Sarutobi chuckled morbidly.

 

“Yes, this is indeed the very technique created by the Forth. The one he forged to seal the enraged Kyuubi into the stomach of Naruto. This is the seal that will seal you into me, before taking my life, thus ending yours with it.” Sarutobi explained with a small smile. “You and I both have a one way ticket to Hell.”

 

“Bastard!” Orochimaru snarled as the Death God entered his vision as well, causing him to pale to a sickly white. He couldn't die! Not now, not when he was so very close to acquiring the power he deserved; the power he needed to make his twisted dream come true.

 

The God of Death pulled the simple looking sword from his fanged jaw as he loomed over the two, a dark look in his eyes at having another soul join his collection. Bringing one hand forward, he paced it into the old man's back, causing him to wince and cringed as it passed through him and a specter hand appeared out his stomach. With a practiced move, the hand reached into Orochimaru and gripped before pulling out, a glowing form slowly coming with.

 

Gasping, Orochimaru fought with all his might, mind willing his soul to remain in his body as he watched ghostly images of his arms be fully pulled of him, a silhouetted head following in succession. `No. No!' The man thought with determination as he struggled harder, feeling somewhat satisfied as his soul was being tugged back into him, the head once again vanishing beyond flesh.

 

`I don't… have much strength left.' Sarutobi thought before he looked over his shoulder. `And he won't be able to hold those two off for much longer.' He noted before nodding at the death God, who immediately brought his sword down and severed the arms of the soul as it retreated into the old man, causing a seal to appear on his stomach as he fell dead.

 

“My arms…” Orochimaru voiced in horror as he regained control of his body, yet his arms didn't once move. “You stole my arms… my techniques…” He whispered before crying a mass yell that was filled with great rage and drowning sorrow.

 

- - - - - - - -

 

Oh how the Heavens cried. They wept their purest tears, drenching the sorrowful village that the darkest of clouds hovered over. A bitter wind blew, chilling to the bone. But it seemed the best weather for the sad day. All Ninja stood in black, each bearing sorrow-filled expression.

 

It was always sad when someone died. Even sadder when the person was loved and respected by many. Sarutobi, the Third Hokage had touched all of their hearts, and now he would forever cease to do so. He was dead, and thus the village sat in a leaderless state.

 

Konoha was not faring well. Not only had they lost their dear ruler, but they were also heavily damaged form the attack, having lost many buildings and people to the surprise assault.

 

“Why?” Naruto voiced quietly, his words being carried on the wind to all ninja gathered. “Why did he have to die?” He questioned sadly. “Why do all living things crumble with time?”

 

“Because it is life.” Iruka answered as he knelt down before the blond Genin and gathered him in his arms. “We were born to die, but the Hokage died after having lived a long and joy filled life. He had no regrets upon his last breath and he left this world with a sincere smile.” The brown haired Chuunin concluded with a sad smile as he held the boy that was much like a son to him to his chest.

 

Naruto cried. He shed tears for the old man that had done so much for him. The man who saw him as a person and did all within his power to protect him. “Oji-sama… I will do all within my power to protect this village and its people so that it may flourish in your memory.” Naruto vowed quietly, the gathered crowd easily being able to pick it up.

 

“A noble dream it is.” Hiashi said from behind the blond as he placed his hand on the boy's shoulder. Naruto silently looked over at the head of the Hyuuga clan and nodded his thanks.

 

“Are you still going to claim it so noble when you learn what my first act as Hokage will be?” Naruto inquired politely as he continued to hug his mentor and his father-figure.

 

“I suppose we will just have to wait and see, but I have an inkling that you indeed to alter the running of the Hyuuga family. You wish to eliminate the use of a curse seal and the inferiority that the main family holds over the branch family.” The man summed up earning him a curt nod from the young blond boy who bore the Kyuubi within.

 

“Your guess is quite accurate.” Naruto responded as Iruka released his tearful hold on his student and stood beside him in a sign of support. “That is indeed one of my intentions, after all, I hate seeing such promising individuals be placed so low in their families.”

 

“Neji-kun.” He whispered in understanding. “You are one of his friends; one of the reasons why the most promising youth to ever walk the halls of Hyuuga has taken to leaving for training.” Hiashi chuckled in amusement. “If you were able to surpass his ice then I have a feeling that you will make a good leader.”

 

“I will take that as a compliment, Hyuuga-sama.” Naruto said with a small, yet formal bow, earning him an approving look from the patriarch of the Hyuuga clan.

 

“I look forward to future dealings between my family and you, Uzumaki-kun.” The man said before nodded shortly at the two girls that were standing to his right. “Hinata, Hanabi, let's go.” He said sharply, earning a stuttered `Hai.', from Hinata and a curt nod from Hanabi.

 

The whole of the Hyuuga main family left, the branch family following on its heels like a well trained puppy. `I will see a change to this.' Naruto vowed with a small frown.

 

“Naruto-kun.” Iruka spoke up quietly. “You have grown and matured way beyond my first guess.” The chunnin stated with a proud smile, brown eyes alight with fierce pride.

 

“I did it to make you proud. To make friends that I could trust impeccably and to earn the respect from both the ninja and the villagers so that one day when I claim the title as Hokage for my own I might have earned it in the eyes of many.” The blond explained seriously, blue eyes regarded his sensei in an intelligent manner.

 

“You did not need to try and make me proud, I would have been proud even if you were weak and unintelligent. I would have been your friend when you were friendless, I don't care about any of that, because this,” He paused as he set his hand over the boy's chest on the left side. “Your heart is what drew me to you.”

 

- - - - - - - - - - - -

 

“Jiraiya-sama,” an elderly woman spoke up gravely, hr aged skin as wrinkled as century old parchment. “We, the Counsel, have decided that you are the best suited individual to the seat of Hokage.” She continued with a strict tone.

 

“I am not becoming a Hokage you old bag.” The silvered haired man muttered darkly, as he turned his face from the view of Konoha, over to the two individuals behind him, his eyes narrowed in small slits. “I am a writer and by nature someone who seeks adventure. If I were Hokage it would cut down my research time to nil, leaving my fans in a rage. Secondly I need to get out and having a village under my jurisdiction would simply keep me bound here unable to do anything I want to. But that leaves us once again without a leader in line.”

 

“Precisely our point.” The man said, speaking up for the first time. “You are the only eligible candidate for the title.”

 

“No. There are two others who have points that make them eligible. But one is a traitor which automatically eliminates his candidacy, leaving only one: Tsunade.” Jiraiya finished, his back to the setting sun painting a surreal picture.

 

“But none of us know where she is, not too mention there are great rumors around stated how in debt she is.” The woman protested instantly.

 

“Well I can't deny her gambling problems, but I can go and find her.” He admitted.

 

“Fine…” The woman sighed dejectedly. “You are to go find and retrieve her.”

 

“Yes. But I'm not going to go alone; I will be taking Uzumaki Naruto with me.” He stated in a tone that offered no room for arguments. “I have a gut feeling that, that kid will be essential in my old teammate's retrieval.”

 

“Very well…”

 

- - - - - - - - - - - -

 

Hologram images of nine figures appeared in a dark cavern, each not even remotely fazed by the water that dripped from the cave's roof and through their images before striking ground. “It's time.” A shadowy figure stated his words accented in the tone that marked him as the leader of the ground. “Uchiha-san, Kisame-san, I entrust the highest one to you. You two are to retrieve Uzumaki Naruto.” He paused. “The rest of you can choose who you are to retrieve.” He concluded before his hologram flickered and vanished, the other forms shortly following.

 

- - - - - - - - - -

 

“Let me get this straight.” Naruto spoke aloud, while leaning against his apartment door with a blank expression as his blue eyes observed the white haired old man before him. “The counsel of elders from our village wanted you to become Hokage, but you declined and offered to retrieve the person who would become the next Hokage.” He spoke up the initial summary. “And then you tell them that you wish for me to accompany you, and they agree full heartedly.” He finished his voice holding not a single expression.

 

Jiraiya nodded at the necessary points, clarifying the blonde's summary was indeed correct. “Why do you want me to go?” Naruto asked with a weary sigh.

 

“Simple.” Jiraiya spoke up with a smirk. “I have a gut feeling that you are necessary in her retrieval.” He concluded proudly as he looked down at the boy that was so relaxed looking.

 

“And if I refuse?” Naruto quirked an eyebrow, obviously testing the waters.

 

“Not possible, I have the whole council backing me up on this one.” Jiraiya finished with a proud smirk. He knew that the blond was obliged to go.

 

“You can't force me to go. I may be a ninja, but only the Hokage him or herself can assign a mission of this magnitude to someone standing of my rank. I see no benefit.” He concluded before moving out of his leaning position, while taking a step back inside and he swung the door closed.

 

Jiraiya slipped his wooden-sandal clad foot between the door and its frame, successfully hindering the closing process. “Listen brat,” he spoke up with a visible twitch above his left eye. “You have to come.”

 

“I already told you that I have no obligation to follow your orders, nor the advice of a gathering of old fools.” Naruto said calmly, though he was slowly becoming agitated. “I also expressed my disinterest in this little mission. Perhaps you ought find some other sucker to baby you there and back again.”

 

“Now you listen here brat.” Jiraiya said with a growl, he was ticked. “I don't need to be babied, nor do I need assistance, but I can bet my life that something that is likely to happen that I will need you to tend to.” He snarled. “But I am willing to make this excursion worth your time.”

 

“I'm listening.” Naruto said, his curiosity having gotten the better of him.

 

“I will teach you two techniques on the trip, one while we go there, and one on the return trip, deal?” He offered smugly, his mood pulling a complete three-sixty.

 

“Depends on the techniques.” Naruto answered, he would be cautious as he had no desire to learn useless techniques.

 

“You're a smart brat, I'll give you that.” Jiraiya mumbled to himself. “But if you must know, I'll be teaching you the Rasengan on the trip there and the Shunshin no Jutsu.” He whispered clearly while inwardly thinking, `Hook, line and sink her!'

 

Naruto smirked. “Ero-sennin, you have yourself a deal. Meet me at o'600 hours at Konoha's West Gate.” He ordered calmly before pushing the man out of his door way and slamming the door shut, followed closely by the sound of a lock click.

 

“I just got out foxed, out spoken and out maneuvered by a twelve year old brat.” Jiraiya said in astonishment before snapping his jaw shut and retreating. Though the score was now Naruto: 1, Jiraiya: 0, he knew things would turn out fine. “He sure reminds me of you.” He muttered before vanishing in a swirl of leaves.

 

- - - - - -

 

“You're late brat!” Jiraiya snapped as the blond appeared before him. “You set the time and you didn't even show up when you said you would! You're four hours late.” He finished, looking completed pissed off.

 

“Oops?” Naruto sarcastically uttered, an amused smirk playing about his lips. “Would you believe that my alarm clock broke, so I had to wait for the stores to open before getting a new one? But then I just realized that I had to tell Neji-kun and Shikamaru-kun that I would be away, and let's just say that they both are horrible morning people.” He finished with a serious nod, which only got him a twitch of annoyance from the man before him.

 

“You spend way too much time with Kakashi.” The white haired man grumbled.

 

“Well of course I do, he is my Jounin instructor after all.” Naruto explained with a sing song voice before he began walking through the gate. He turned and looked at the man over his shoulder. “Aren't you coming old man? If we take to long our target might have relocated again.” He called before turning his neck back around.

 

Jiraiya was seething. Just who the hell did that kid think he was?! He'd show him! He'd even that now two-nothing score out if it was the last thing he did.

 

- - - - - -

 

“I didn't think you'd actually be able to do it.” Jiraiya muttered in shock as he regarded the boy before him, who had managed to pass the first two steps of the Rasengan training within only twenty minutes. He was absolutely annihilating all the practice pieces they had acquired in the previous town.

 

“Well this third part is tricky.” He said, while regaining his composure. After a quick explanation of what he was to do, the two resumed on path, the blond staring at his hand in deep thought. `Let's see that brat get this part.' He thought smugly as he gazed off into the distance, noting the town in the distance that was but a mere speck.

 

His eyes flickered back to his temporary student, happily noting the frown on his features as he struggled over the third step. `Yep, this is my most favorite step, makes all the cocky ones struggle.' He thought with great fondness, knowing that the town ahead was where his old teammate stood.

 

- - - - - -

 

“Tsunade-chan.” Orochimaru spoke up, causing his blond haired former teammate and her dark haired assistant, Shizune, to look up.

 

“Orochimaru-kun…” Tsunade growled in annoyance as she eyed the man that had hurt her more then any other and the silver haired young man the stood to his side. “Why are you here?” She demanded, cutting to the chase.

 

“My Tsunade…” He chuckled in glee, “I would have thought you would have graced me with a far more warm welcome. I can honestly admit that I hadn't expected such a cold reception.” He said with a small laugh.

 

“Get the hell out of here. I told you before that I had no desire to ever see your slimy face ever again.” She snarled with narrowed eyes.

 

“I have come to make you an offer.” He spoke up. “I am certain you have noticed that my arms are in a grave state.” He began, happily noting her nod. “I want you to heal me, but I won't ask for something without giving something you want in return. If you do this I will bring back your brother and lover.”

 

“Don't listen to him Tsunade-sama!” Shizune shouted as she took two steps forward and one to the left so that she was standing somewhat in front of her female mentor. “You can't revive someone.”

 

“Oh I beg to differ. I brought back the First and the Second in the battle against Sarutobi-sensei. The very battle that he perished in.” He chuckled ominously.

 

“You murdered him.” Tsunade spoke up, reading between the lines.

 

“I suppose you could say that, although I find that word to sound primitive. I prefer the term being `eliminated'. But that old bastard took a piece of me with him.” He growled as he looked down at his arms. “Give me my arms back and I'll give you your most precious people back, so long as you supply two sacrifices of course.”

 

“Get lost.” Tsunade spoke up; her golden eyes alight with pure hatred. “I'll give you till the count of the three to leave.”

 

“I give you one week to decide.” Orochimaru stated calmly, yet his eyes did flash with an unreadable expression.

 

“One.”

 

Orochimaru took a step back as the woman that stood on the path way below, punch the stone wall behind her back, causing it to crumble into dust. “Meet me back here in one week.”

 

“Two.” Tsunade growled, as the man suddenly took off, his most loyal henchmen in tow.

 

- - - - - -

 

Naruto grumbled. Jiraiya and decided that he would go off and look for any information he could find on the whereabouts of Tsunade, and in the meantime, he was supposed to wonder around the time and contemplate why he was not to get his Rasengan beyond the third step. It had taken him a good half and hour to get the third part down. And now it was the hard part.

 

With a sigh he looked over at the brightly colored building next to him and let of a devilish smirk. With a cautious glance, he transformed himself into an exact double of Kakashi, though he decided to make himself look like a commoner.

 

He wore a simple pair of black slacks, black shoes, and a black tank-top, all of which completely flattered his stolen form. With a smirk that made his mismatched eyes glow in a strange manner, he entered the building.

 

There were slot machines everywhere. It was a gambler's heaven. After having converted a high sum of money into coins that would work into the machine, he picked the machine he thought best and inserted one coin before pulling the lever.

 

Swlip! Swlip! Swlip! The machine rang out, as three sevens appeared on the screen. And the coins began to spill out, while it played the jackpot music, drawing the eyes of many other gamblers.

 

Naruto put all his winnings into his bucket before inserting a second coin. He received the same results, again and again. He cleared out the entire machine, before moving to the big machine, a following of gamblers following him in interest.

 

They watched in batted breath as he slip three coins into the big-shot machine before pulling the lever. 700, 000 ; 700, 000 ; 700, 000! A red light began to flash as the winner music began to sing, before the machine began spitting out bills of money, which the blond in disguise, hurriedly placed into the sac that the game place's owner handed him.

 

The crowd was wild around him, cheering and congratulating him on such extremely good luck. He did it a second time, and a third, getting the same results. “Congratulations sir, you are the first to have won this in three consecutive runs.” He man said with a nervous sweat. “But I'm afraid I'll have to ask you to leave.” He finished as he began rubbing his sweaty hands together.

 

With a deep sigh, he nodded in understanding before handing his three coin buckets that were filled to the brim with coins over to a poor looking fellow before scoping up his three bags of mass cash.

 

He left without a word, having not spoken even once during the whole thing, but inwardly he was pleased with the results. `And you said I should avoid gambling.' He told his furry counterpart as he exited the building, silently noting two people following him.

 

“That's quite some luck you have there.” A female voice said from behind him, his eyes moving to regard the two women at his back. “What's your name?”

 

Naruto regarded to two before him. “Isn't it courteous to offer your name first Tsunade-sama?” He asked innocently, his words causing both women to look shocked before tensing.

 

“As you seem to already know my name I'll skip it, but this is my assistant, Shizune.” The blonde woman said while motioning towards the pig holding girl at her side. “And her pig is Tonton. As I asked before, who are you?”

 

“A pleasure.” Naruto said as he nodded towards the dark haired woman and her familiar. “But I suppose the name that goes along with this identity is a false one.” He muttered before transforming back into his tine, blond self, giving the two of them a shock. “The name is Uzumaki Naruto.” He said with a smirk.

 

“You're from Konoha.” Shizune whispered as she eyed his ninja band.

 

“What's a small little brat like you doing so far from home and alone? Surely you aren't here on a gambling spree.” Tsunade spoke with a frown.

 

“Though I am small I am no brat. As for the reason I am here… well I do suppose you'll have to speak with Ero-sennin about that.” He said trailing off before he summoned up three shadow clones and sent them off with the money and a strict order to give it away to those who need it.

 

“You can use shadow clones?” Shizune whispered in awe, this kid had quite the aces up his sleeve.

 

“Brat!” A familiar voice to two of them called, causing all three to turn and look at the man approaching them. “Well, well, if it isn't Tsunade-chan.” He stated as he came to a halt beside his traveling companion.

 

“Jiraiya-kun.” Tsunade said with a curt nod of her head. “I take it this was the `Ero-sennin' you mentioned.” She stated as she looked over at the other blond who simple nodded in affirmation.

 

 

“Why are you here?” Tsunade asked as they settled in at a restaurant style bar, several bottles of sake, and platters of food lining their table.

 

“Sarutobi-sensei is dead.” Jiraiya spoke up quietly, causing Tsunade to take a big gulp from her sake cup before immediately filling it back up. “Orochimaru killed him. And now the council of elders has decided that we need a new Hokage and fast. They asked me.” He said earning him a snort for his former teammate who swallowed another cup worth of sake before refilling her cup.

 

“But I told them no.” He said, continuing his tale. “We then came to the conclusion that you were best suited to this title. Do you accept?” He asked as he plopped some food into his mouth.

 

“No. I have no desire to return to Konoha let alone lead it. The title of Hokage is nothing but trash that only temperamental and weak idiots take.” She sneered darkly before a fist smashing against the table drew their attention to the blond Genin.

 

“How dare you?” Naruto quietly seethed before he stood up. “You and me, outside, right now old hag.” Naruto growled with slitted eyes that offered a challenge.

 

“What. Did. You. Call. Me?” She ground out, her left eye twitching in anger.

 

“You heard me you old hag.” Naruto said calmly before walking out of the place, the three other people hot on his tail.

 

Outside, the two of them faced off, while Shizune and Jiraiya stood off to the side watching. “You honestly think you can put a scratch on me?” She sneered with a superior tone. “I bet you can't even manage any strong techniques beyond your shadow clone.” She gambled with a smirk.

 

With narrowed eyes, Naruto gathered a swirl of chakra into his right hand, causing Shizune, Tsunade and even Jiraiya to look on in shock, the first two because this move was the Yondaime's and Jiraiya's and the latter because he knew that Naruto was stumped on this part of the training.

 

Naruto charged forward with a cold aura, and struck like a serpent, the chakra ball slamming into the ground as Tsunade dodged at the last second.

 

The dust settled, leaving Naruto standing in the end move of the Rasengan, glaring daggers at the swirl-hole that lie just below his hand. “You can't even use that technique properly.” Tsunade chastised with a frown. “You're weak.”

 

“I can master it.” Naruto said with determination as he looked up at the blond. “I will master it in one week, and I do this gamble, betting my dream to become Hokage.” He said with a smirk that caused the woman to see overlapping images. Her mind trading his face momentarily with that of her deceased little brother.

 

“Let's make it a bet then.” She said after having snapped back to reality. “If you master this technique in one week I'll give you this necklace of mine,” she motioned towards a glimmering jewel that had once been her grandfather's, “And I'll return with you and become Hokage.”

 

“Deal.” Naruto said, a small smirk playing about his lips. “A week is plenty of time.”

 

- - - - - - - -

 

“I see you had no intention of healing me.” Orochimaru sighed as he looked over at the blond woman before. He had hoped the other would have agreed to it, but he supposed he would have to do it by force. “I suppose I have no other choice… But force you to do what I desire.”

 

“No chance in hell Orochimaru!” A voice called out just as three figures appeared beside his former teammate.

 

“Jiraiya-kun.” He said with smirk before his eyes fell upon the blond both, causing a devious smirk to blossom. “Naruto-kun.” He said in a sickly sweet voice. “How do you like my parting gift?” He asked as he liked his lips.

 

His words caused Tsunade to look at Naruto in shock. “You mean that curse seal?” Naruto said as he held his wrist up. “It's perfectly fine, hasn't once acted up, nor given me any problems.” He answered with a smirk of his own. “Looks like I have one up on you too.”

 

Orochimaru frowned. It couldn't be possible for the boy to have not once felt the need to call forth the extra power. “You're more resilient then I had expected… Perhaps you are a greater threat than I originally perceived.” He stated with a frown, before noting the woozy looking white haired man.

 

“Kabuto-kun… Eliminate him.” He ordered, causing the silver haired man to nod.

 

“As you wish Orochimaru-sama.” He spoke up before looking over at the blond boy.

 

Blue clashed with dark brown. “The spy is certainly wrapped around his master's little finger.” Naruto commented with a smirk, before he brought his right hand up and brought forth a sphere of blue chakra. “Rasengan!” He called as he raced forward in a blur on speed, his chakra ball connecting to the traitor's stomach, eating his flesh away before sending him flying.

 

A stunned silence broke out, broken only slightly by the sound of Kabuto hitting ground, blood pooling around his horridly wounded stomach, causing Tsunade to blanch at the crimson sight.

 

“I did it!” Naruto cheered happily, though his happiness was short lived as he noted Kabuto get up, his stomach slowly healing himself. “Well isn't that an annoying ability.” He muttered with a sigh, feeling as though his parade had just been rained on.

 

“Naruto-kun… You've learnt an interesting technique.” Orochimaru commented with a smirk as Kabuto returned to his side, hand clutching his mostly healed stomach as sweat beaded down his face.

 

“Orochimaru… You're looking worse then when last we met. Was Sarutobi-sama that tough on you in his old age?” Naruto mocked, wiping the smirk off the snake ninja's face.

 

“You have just become expendable…” Orochimaru growled with narrow eyes.

- - - - - - - -

End of Chapter - Well that's it for this chapter… Sorry its kind of broken and short. T.T School and work are draining, and lets just say how much I loath Huckleberry Finn… Well thanks for reading and please review.

 

Ranpu Sutairu: Kaen no Gin Joukei - Light Style: Flame of Silver Sight

 

Kuroppoi Natsuin: Hensen Tatazumai- Dark Seal: Change Shape