Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Inner Secrets ❯ Chapter 18

Disclaimer: Once again, I admit to having zero ownership over anything Naruto, or anything related to said anime series.

 

Warnings: Violence, gore, angst, drama, swearing, adult themes, mature subject content and eventual gay relationships. If you do not like Yaoi - Gay people - I advise you once again to leave. This all has been stated in proceeding chapters.

 

Pairings: Itachi/Naruto, Shikamaru/Neji, Gaara/Sasuke, Kakashi/Iruka, further pairings have yet to be decided.

 

AN: Hey guys and gals, thanks once again for reading and reviewing. ^^ Now I Do suppose I need to check some things and answer some other things. Okay, first off on my uber long to do list that seemingly has no end is to find out if you, the readers, see (- - - - - ) Anywhere on the pages of chapters. Because those are my scene changes/time skips. It shows up on my computer so I have to wonder if it does or not show up on yours as I get many requests to clarify between things like that. Secondly, I was asked how much time I spend on plot, and well, in all honesty, I spend zero time one it. When I write I just let my fingers flow over the key board like water over the river bed. As for the names, well I just randomly plop them out of thin air, but I wonder if they are bad, because some chick who is friends with my best friend, (I only put up with her for my best friends sake cause she is a bitch by all means and she lives to torment me. But she can't beat me! I'm the Gingerbread man!) she says that every and any name I create is so cliché and mary sue. But hey, in our French project, she made MY character be a common name of uber boringness (not that I don't like the name, I just hate having the use of boring names in my creations. >.< Seems too lackluster to me. Also I mean no offense to any who may have a not so spaz-tastic names), so I think she might be lacking creativity. Scratch that she DOES lack creativity. As for many of the jutsu, yes I do make them myself, and I do translations myself. And the time to come up with moves is far faster then my translation skills. As for those who want writing tips, just pm me and we will talk and I'll try my best to help.

 

Previously on I.S.:

 

The trek back to Konoha was quick and silent despite the resting Kyuubi host and the weak and wounded Hyuuga. The Ninja from leaf who knew not the identities of the real Ryoku no Kami were nervous and on edge, not knowing what to expect, while Neji and Shikamaru were curious to whether or not this was one of Orochimaru's twisted plots, or if it were the plan of their dear friend. The only way to know for sure would be to ask the blond, but he was still asleep and pale.

 

The great gates of Konoha loomed ahead, looking ominous to the black sky behind it. Thunder roared a greeting of their return, as they stepped within the village just as the storm raised its intensity. “To Konoha Hospital first!” Shikamaru ordered in a loud and firm voice that barely carried to the group over the wind, rain and thunder. Through empty streets they raced, dodging bolts of lightning that randomly struck the ground and buildings in a burst of flames that were doused not a second later.

 

They made it to the gloomy hospital with great speed, and they were met with Tsunade, Shizune and Heero, each looking as though they had anticipated their return at the time. “Place Naruto-kun on the stretcher.” The blond busty woman instructed sharply, inwardly withholding all shock and questions at the arrival of the three greatest legends of their age. “Shikamaru-kun, place Neji-kun on that stretcher.” She ordered, and both Sasuke and Shikamaru bowed to her will and did as she commanded before the two injured were carried off to rooms.

 

“Shizune and I will tend to them and once that is done we will all talk. Now go to my office, Heero-sama will accompany you.” Tsunade ordered before spinning off and speed walking in the direction her two newest patients were carted off in, leaving the rest standing in the entrance way of Konoha's hospital.

 

Chapter 18

 

The tension within the Hokage's office was stifling and silent. The only people seemingly unfazed by the events of the past few hours were the masked and cloaked legends and the lazy genius. Sasuke was leaning against a dark wall, blending into the shadows in a brooding fashion, his arms folded loosely over his chest as he eyed the dark visitors with trustless eyes. Shino was likewise leaning casually against a wall, regarding the unknown through his black shades that hid his eyes far greater then the shadows ever could. Lee on the other hand was sitting on a cushiony chair before the paper laden desk, wriggling too and fro, seemingly out of place with all the dark, calm and unmoving figures. Shikamaru was slouched on the window sill, deep brown eyes peering into the endless storm pounding against the window.

 

A cold was in the air, the feeling of mistrust and uncertainty clung to nearly everyone, grating on a select few nerves. “Would you all stop it already?” Shikamaru muttered with a sigh as he shifted his gaze from the black clouds to the occupants of the room. “The tension is really killing the atmosphere.” He sighed as he rested his cheek against the cool glass, eyes once more seeking solitude in the sky beyond. How me missed his white clouds, clouds that reminded him of a certain someone…

 

“Are you guys really the Ryoku no Kami?” Lee asked in curiosity as he eyed the three figures that stood together near the door of the office.

 

“Yes.” The Kage Gesshoku answered in his deep and mysterious voice, though inwardly the figure rolled his eyes. `At least until the real one is up and ready.' Itachi thought, feeling a slight bit annoyed that Naruto-kun had requested he wear this guise. But he did suppose it had its merits. With this cloak and mask he was able to reenter his homelands uncontested and unquestioned. He could return here without the dark glares and blame filled eyes. He would surpass the hate of the villagers, and he could see that foolish little brother of his without having to flick off his attacks. It was an interesting thing, but he knew he couldn't stay here too long…without killing someone…

 

Itachi was meant to be free, confining him and conforming him to the expectations of the world would simply make him crack… again. But for now he would play along, if not for Naruto-kun, then to hold one up on the male that was standing to his right: Kimimaro.

 

The silver-haired ex-ninja of the land of Tea, stood passively, emerald eyes concealed through his hood and all the shadows, making it impossible to tell that his glance was focused upon the old feudal lord, who was seated next to the peculiarly dressed and very haired Konoha ninja. The old man was a tale of legends, and he supposed it was only right that this meeting to come would be a meeting with living legends, even though three here were mere fill-ins for the time being.

 

His eyes then moved to Itachi, before drifting to the white cloaked being on the elder Uchiha's other side. He knew nothing of the figure within, beyond the fact that he was another friendly acquaintance of Naruto-kun.

 

-- Flash Back—

 

 

The flames had flickered out, and with their death, came a groan of awakening. “Naruto-kun, are you well enough to press forward?” Itachi asked softly as he regarded the blond through the limited light flickering in from the storm outside.

 

“I will cope.” Naruto answered in all honesty as he cringingly pushed himself into a seated position with quivering arms. “Though, judging by the amount of time I've been out for, I'd gather that a squad from Konoha was sent after me?” He inquired, earning a nod from the two.

 

“Orochimaru-sama sent out the Sound four, my old team out to greet the oncoming leaf ninja.” Kimimaro stated with a slight sadness in his voice, as though he missed the days that he had been able to fight on a team.

 

“Are they strong?” Naruto asked softly, blue eyes piercing through green.

 

“For Chuunin, yes.” The silver haired-teen answered with a firm nod.

 

“Do we know who from Konoha was sent after me?” He questioned, eyes drifting to Itachi, who was likely watching for this the whole time.

 

“Yes. Your friends, the Nara and the Hyuuga, along with a green jump suit wearing teen, the youngest Aburame male, and … my little brother.” The Uchiha genius responded, an eerie smile creeping across his firm lips as he voiced the last person on the team.

 

“Hmm…” Naruto hummed softly as he looked up at the roof of the cave. “Well… Neji-kun, and Shikamaru-kun can handle them, but they likely won't want to show off in the presence of the other three. So they will dumb down their abilities dramatically. Even feign a loss if necessary; meaning that only Shino-san, Lee-san, and Sasuke-kun will be fighting full strength.” He muttered to himself.

 

`Kit, lets have something radical done.' The Kyuubi declared suddenly, crimson eyes alight with mischief. `I'd say it is time that the Legends of the Present meet with the powerful lands of the Leaf. War knocks on their doors, if you still wish to protect it and become Hokage, I advise you to align with them quickly.' The fox paused for a moment, allowing Naruto to gather his thoughts. `Time to shatter that mask, claim your dream and defend your home lands. But you are too weak to quite pull that off. I do believe that ring hidden below genjutsu is the answer you need.' And silence fell within the mind of the kitsune vessel.

 

A smirk spread across Naruto's face as he turned his head to regard the two standing silently beside him. “Time to call in reinforcements.” Naruto stated as he deactivated the genjutsu upon his right ring finger, revealing the ring of the Seven Swordsmen. With a trembling but determined hand, he removed the ring, bit his thumb and dropped a drip of blood upon the crimson ruby. “I call forth the demon Zabuza.” He said to the ring, causing the red to glow lightly.

 

“The Demon of the Mist answers to the keeper of Shadows.” A familiar gravely voice rang through the ring.

 

“Zabuza, it is time I made my move. Are you and Haku still willing to aid until it is time for us to clash blades once more?” The blond inquired gently.

 

“I am a man of my word… sometimes.” Was the response, and the people within the cave could practically see the smirk upon the man's bandaged face. “Haku and I will be there shortly, according to the ring you are rather close to us.” Was the answer before the ring lost its glow and silence fell within the cave.

 

--End Flash Back—

 

Haku. That was the impostor in white. From what Kimimaro could gather, the young ninja was the same in size and stature as the true owner of the cloak he had donned, while he himself was close enough to the size and height of the owner of the cloak he was wearing. No one would notice the difference save the people in on the plot, and the original members of the well-known Kami team.

 

The door to the office swung open with a boom as it crashed against the wall, causing all eyes to regard the irate blond Hokage storm in, followed closely by her most loyal assistant, who humbly closed the door behind her.

 

Tsunade stomped to her desk before gracelessly plopping down. She placed her elbows upon her desk and laced her fingers together, using them to conceal a part of her face as she sighed and regained her composure. “Now,” She began as she glanced around the room with golden eyes. “I want to know everything.” She ordered firmly. “I want to know where Jiraiya is. I want to know what you three,” He looked over at Shikamaru, “ have been doing this past while, and how Naruto-kun was wounded so horrendously that you dragged him back on the brink of death. I want to know how Naruto is related to you Heero-sama. I want to know what happened on this retrieval mission. And finally,” her eyes moved over to the three figures that were spoken of so frequently, “I want to know why you are here.” She finished her list, before she unthreaded her fingers and placed her arms flat upon the paper-less section in front of her.

 

Shikamaru sighed. “Hokage-sama, without both Neji and Naruto here, I will not speak of our time outside the borders of Konoha. As for that wound, that is Naruto's business and his business alone. If he wishes to tell you about it; it is up to him.” The Nara stated with resolve and finality in his deep brown eyes that took everyone in the room aback. Never before had the people from Konoha seen the lazy genius be so straight forward. Nor had they seen him deny answers. Something big must have changed him.

 

Golden eyes clashed with firm chocolate eyes, before the Hokage nodded. “Very well, once Naruto-kun and Hyuuga-san are well we will discuss these past three years. But, I wish to know where Jiraiya is.”

 

Shikamaru shrugged. “No clue, we haven't seen him since three weeks into our training.” The Nara answered uncaringly as he slouched against the cool glass of the window, inwardly amused by the irate twitch over the woman's eye.

 

“I believe that the next on my list is for you to answer Heero-sama.” Tsunade stated quietly as she leaned forward in curiosity. “Why do you claim to be Naruto-kun's grandfather?”

 

Heero smiled gently at the question. “Because I am.” He claimed with great pride swirling in his wise blue eyes.

 

“How?” Tsunade pressured. “As far as I, or anyone for that matter, know that you only sired two children, two daughters of great beauty. Your youngest daughter, Shikana is wed with three daughters, while your eldest is missing, presumed dead.” She stated.

 

“That is all true, even the death of Hana was confirmed to me.” He admitted somberly. “But allow me to tell you what know one else has been told. “Hana's husband was truly horrible, he managed to deceive everyone, even myself, for that I am forever shamed. He was a cruel and dangerous man, seeking profit and power. And once he had gained my heir in holy matrimony. He beat her. He raped her. He destroyed her.” He admitted, causing horror to sow upon both Tsunade's and Shizune's faces. “But her will to survive was strong and she fled. She ran to the person she trusted most. The person this village will forever hail as a hero, the Yondaime; my great aunt's only descendant.”

 

Heero stopped, allowing his words to sink into the dark atmosphere before he continued speaking. “She found love, and help within this village. Though her time was limited to the swelling of her belly. She had been impregnated by her husband before she fled, and her she lived happily, despite her deteriorating life. In time she birthed a son. Naming him a name upon her dying breath while wishing him to be a hero. She had asked the Yondaime to use her child for the safety of his dear village. He did. And upon his own dying breath, he gave the child a new name, until it was time for the boy to reclaim his identity. He named him Uzumaki Naruto and begged for him to be a hero.” He concluded, blue eyes observing the tear that trekked down the Hokage's cheek.

 

“Then Naruto-kun is the rightful heir to the title of feudal lord for all of the fire lands.” Shizune whispered in awe.

 

“The parentless child has found his lineage.” Tsunade whispered with a sad smile, before she whipped the tears from her eyes, and looked towards the rest of the room's occupants.

 

“Sasuke, debrief your mission.” Tsunade ordered sharply.

 

The youngest Uchiha nodded. “We set out towards Tea Country, and made it with good speed despite the storm. Not long after we crossed their border, were we encountered by the Sound Four. There we paired off against them. The Hyuuga,” he sneered, “was weak going into battle and he fell the quickest, but the rest of us held our ground. Before the fight could turn in any direction, they,” he motioned towards the three cloak wearing ninja, “showed up, with Naruto-dobe in arm, and frightened away the enemy, giving us time to pull back.” He concluded, giving the edited version as she would find out more detail in their written reports.

 

Tsunade frowned, many questions raced through her mind. “Kage-sama,” She began slowly, gold eyes focusing on the hooded face. “Why is it that you had Naruto-kun? Are you in league with Orochimaru-kun or Tea Country?” She asked nervously, seemingly on edge to be talking with the leader of the legends.

 

Itachi smirked icily as he allowed his lower face to flicker through the genjutsu, showing only the eerie smirk for less than a nano-second, but long enough to intimidate and chill many of them. “Does one being need any reason to help a friend?” He countered rhetorically.

 

“Friend of who?” Tsunade pressured as she leaned forwards to regard the Kage Gesshoku closely.

 

“Naruto-kun.” Was the only answer, causing a few short breaths to be drawn.

 

Tsunade pushed down her confusion and mistrust as she leaned back, studying the profile of the man who had spoken. “If you are not in league with our enemies, and are friends with one of our own, does that make you an ally?” She inquired firmly, her hands dropping to her lap.

 

“Should Naruto-kun wish it, then so it shall be.” Was the answer before the door to the office swung open.

 

“That I do indeed wish.” Came the blonde's all familiar voice as he walked in supported by a pale but strong looking Hyuuga. “Tsunade-obaa-chan? Will you permit it?” The demon vessel asked as he focused his clear blue eyes on golden ones.

 

“Naruto… You should be resting, along with the Hyuuga.” She admonished sharply as she stood up, palms laid flat against her desk.

 

“How can we rest, knowing that there is an important meeting in the process? One that just so happens to involve us?” Neji asked coolly as he motioned for Lee to move, and Lee hastened to do so, giving the white eyed teen the chance to help Naruto into the chair. “Or has Konoha changed enough to exclude important members of an important discussion?”

 

Silence fell and lightning flared before the office sunk back into darkness. “Naruto-kun… How is it that you are friends with these people?” Tsunade asked after a long silence.

 

Naruto smiled a cheshire grin. “I ran into them once, and let's just say we became friends.” He answered elusively. “But all that aside,” Naruto said waving off the topic as his face grew serious, “Orochimaru has completed plans for an invasion. All that is left is to prepare his armies to march.” Naruto stated, causing even Neji and Shikamaru shock, for even they did not know this.

 

“Are you certain?” Tsunade asked with a sharp intake of air. The blond nodded, causing her to slump down into her chair as she messaged her forehead. She could feel a headache coming on. “How do you know?” She asked quietly.

 

Naruto shifted in his chair, giving himself a moment to think. “As I'm sure you are aware, I was kidnapped by the Sound Four and taken to Orochimaru's layer within the Lands of Tea,” he began, “and there I was locked up, but I managed to slowly slip out. On my snail-like escape, I learned a few things, and I am willing to bet that Orochimaru and his followers will be knocking on Konoha's gates within the month. Three weeks at earliest.” He added as an after thought.

 

“A fight is upon us in three weeks.” The blond woman stated.

 

“No, Tsunade-sama,” Naruto said sadly as he leaned forward for emphasis, “War is upon us in three weeks.” Shock, it radiated from many within the room.

 

“But surely Orochimaru couldn't have gathered many followers?” Shizune half asked, half stated as she held Tonton firmly to her chest.

 

“All my spies within the lands have told me nothing of this, how big is this confrontation going to be?” The Hokage question with resolve.

 

“Bigger than any in our history. Orochimaru's army stands at one-hundred-thousand strong. But that is without the numbers of all his allies.” Naruto said softly as he leaned back in his chair and locked eyes with crimson hidden ones.

 

“Who would align with him?” Lee questioned, his words making some realize that he was still there.

 

“The have all of Earth Country, a faction from River Country, people from the Eastern Islands, all of Tea Country, and few individuals that come from everywhere, each believing in his poisoned preaching, and lastly he has many nuke-ninja.” Naruto summed up with a thoughtful expression. “This leaves their count to be around three-hundred-thousand.” He calculated.

 

“By the Kage…” Tsunade breathed out.

 

“This village only holds fifteen-thousands people, and only one tenth of that number is ninja. And about a third of the ninja here are all ranked Chuunin and under.” Heero spoke up. “Konoha will fall with those numbers.” He said darkly. “And with Konoha falls Fire Country, leaving all other countries, neutral or not, open to invasion. We must prepare for war.”

 

“We have the support of the Sand, Mist, and Bird.” Tsunade began as she brushed all the important documents from her desk before withdrawing a world map which she hastily spread across the now free surface. “Shino, Lee, Sasuke, take your leave.” She ordered, and the three begrudgingly left with much preying upon their minds.

 

“Bird Country is small with a tiny populace, and only a mere split fraction of it would be able to fight. Sand has a fair amount of ninja, and Mist is very weak in these days. Even with their support we wouldn't stand a chance. Our numbers would at most, barely brush a third of the enemy numbers.” The blond woman sighed in frustration. “This might be the fall of Konoha…” She whispered dejectedly.

 

“Konoha will not fall.” Neji stated firmly earning a nod of approval from Shikamaru and Naruto.

 

“Neji-kun is correct.” Naruto began anew, all attention riveting to him. “Tsunade.” He began sternly, “if you want to fight this war to keep this country, its people and the world itself safe, I need you to listen to us. And follow everything I say to a T. Will you?”

 

Tsunade shifted her mouth moving but no words coming out. “You have all the support I can offer you.” Heero said firmly as he placed his large and aged hand upon Naruto's shoulder, his words offering support to break down Tsunade's doubts.

 

She nodded.

 

“Alright.” Naruto said as he pushed himself from his chair and moved to the desk and glanced down upon the map lain there. “At this meeting's end, signal the retreat to all those within this village that can not fight above Chunnin level. Send with them the injured, the sick, the elderly and the young.

 

“Send them to Rain. They are neutral to Konoha, but they will not turn down those in need. They will take in, shelter and aid our people. Send them along this path here,” He said as he grabbed a pen and placed its point upon Konoha before dragging West to Border Town, “They will pass through Border Town, taking with them the people of that village as well, before making their way over to Rain. As they pass the border, they will gain protection. I want envoys sent to Tanzaku-Gai and Otafuku-Gai, with orders of their retreat. But they will follow a different path; for war would strike them down mid way should they head to Rain. They will make their way to Wave Country; we have friends there that will help them.

 

“From the Position of Sound and Tea, we will be fighting on two fronts. One to the North and one to the South.” He stated as he taped the location of Sound and traced Tea with his index finger. “Meaning the scale will likely set it so that one third of his total force will hit out Northern Gate, and two-thirds to our Southern gate, this will split out already small forces.” He paused. “What we need to do is send a call to arms through the lands of Fire and our allies. We need all the help we can get, whether it be supplies, medical help, or just plan fighting, we will need the whole force.”

 

The room's occupants, who had all gathered around the desk, looked thoughtful at the beginning lay-outs. “That sounds good and well, but there is still the issue of numbers against us, and the likely lack of provisionary to our side.” Tsunade pointed out, causing Naruto to look to the imposters.

 

“Kage-sama, you have friends spread wide across all the lands, can you not summon them to Konoha's aid?” Naruto questioned, his eyes glittering with hidden knowledge.

 

“As you wish.” Was the answer, “But,” The Kage Gesshoku continued, “many of my friends are outlaws to these lands, will you try them? Would you judge them? Would you turn down their aid?” He asked Tsunade causing a chill to rise in the air.

 

“We will accept all the help offered, no matter who it is from.” Tsunade answered with resolve after a moment's contemplation. “We will all need to put away our differences should we wish to win this war.” She admitted in defeat before looking back to Naruto.

 

***

 

“Maito Gai,” Tsunade began as she regarded the green jump-suit clad man with a somberly serious expression. “I have an important mission for you and your star pupil.” She began, gaining for her a shining smile that reflected the lightning outside.

 

“You need us to save my eternal rival from a childish defeat?!” he half asked half exclaimed with enthusiasm.

 

“No. You and Lee are to run with all you possess down to Tazaku-Gai and Otafuku-gai, and deliver these letters to the head of those cities.” She stated as she handed him two official looking envelopes.

 

“Is it an invitation to a great match?” Gai asked in excitement as he looked down at the two letters.

 

“No. They are orders for evacuation.”

 

“Evacuation? Why do they need to evacuate?” Gai questioned with a slight frown.

 

“Konoha is going to war.” Tsunade said by explanation, her words emphasized by the violent crackle of lightning. “A war that will begin in three weeks at our main gates.” She stated as she pulled up a folder. “This has all the details you are to be privy to, and I expect you back here in no longer then two weeks.” She concluded.

 

Gai raised his hand to his forehead in a serious salute. “I will do my best and beyond! Come Lee! We have much saving to do!” He exclaimed as he ran to the window, opened it and leapt out, leaving rain to seep into the Hokage's office, even though Shizune hastened to close it.

 

“Tsunade-sama?” Shizune began as she closed the window. “Are you sure it wise to send Gai on this mission so close to war. Why not send a Genin?” She inquired with worry.

 

Tsunade sighed and placed her face in her arms, causing her next words to be muffled. “I promised Naruto-kun that I would follow his words, and he said Maito Gai and Lee were the best for this as they are the quickest, and most motivated for a task like this. We just need to trust Naruto.” She said through her arms before pushing herself up and regarding Shizune with a sad look. “He grew up. He is far more intelligent than before his journey.” She finished with a smile. “Something tells me that he is the key to winning this war…”

 

***

 

Through that night, Anbu members visited every home, every store with orders of immediate evacuation. People packed small rations and savings, taking with them only the most valuable of their precious possessions. In a long line of people, they left the Western gate, each soaked with rain, all of them struggling with carts and animals through the sticky mud.

 

Babies were shrieking in protest of all the water and cold, children were silent and somber, often seen looking backwards at Konoha with large and confused eyes. Teens were holding their chins high, attempting to take everything in stride with bravery, but inside they were bleeding, and every so often, they would look back to a home they may never see again. Parents were kind, calming the young, aiding the old, and assisting the sick or injured.

 

Only three Jounin circled the group, helping when animals refused to move, pushing stuck carts that were hopelessly caked with mud, and keeping an eye out for danger that might approach them or the villagers.

 

War was upon them, and in their eyes you could see the sadness and the look of utter uselessness. They had not the power or means to fight the coming battle…

 

Long into the stormy night they moved, slow yet steady was their pace. And once dawn struck the land, their fair and powerful city was lost from the last of the line. Konoha was once more hidden within the leaves, seemingly waiting for impending doom.

 

Suppliers and Medical personnel were the only villagers to remain behind, importing goods and medicines with great haste, stocking things away in safe bunkers located within the Hokage Mountain. Temporary Hospitals were hastily set up, beds taken from homes and placed in safe places filled with medical supplies. Naruto had the whole ninja populace of Konoha working long hours under the Hokage's orders.

 

***

 

One night and day had passed them by, just as the storm had, and with the high sun, came another gathering.

 

“Our allies are preparing to march. Suna said they would be here by midnight this night, the others on the following three days. Konoha is internally set and ready for a lock down, meaning its occupants would survive a long time should no enemy break in, but Shinobi could easily crumble our master walls. We need a plan.” Tsunade summed up as she rested her chin on her fists, eyes glancing around the room, pausing on Shikamaru.

 

“We need traps and long distance weapons.” Shikamaru stated with a sigh from his seemingly normal spot against the cool window, his dark eyes focused up at the fluffy white clouds drifting by.

 

Before words could be added a female ninja burst into the office with many documents in her hands. “Tsunade-sama! All medical facilities have been set up and are prepared for the worst should it come!” She stated before her dark brown eyes sweep through the room. “Shikamaru!” She exclaimed, her fingers going numb, causing all papers to scatter to the floor.

 

With speed she ran over to the teen and hugged him. “You're home! When did you get back?! Why didn't you come see your father and I yet! We were so worried knowing you were due to return when a war was on us!” She scolded as Shikamaru pushed his way out of her arms and half glared at her.

 

“Mom, you just barged into a big meeting.” He commented dryly, causing her to look around in embarrassment.

 

“I apologize Hokage-sama.” She said with a bow before looking back at her son sternly. “I'll get him home so that he isn't in your way.”

 

Tsunade sighed. “No need Nara-san, Shikamaru-kun is a major part of this meeting. He is one of the critical minds that will be strategizing for the war.” She concluded, her words leaving no room for arguments.

 

Brown eyes grew large as they shot back to the son that had grown up. “I understand.” She stated as her eyes grew soft with understanding. “Do what you must, make your father and I proud. But when this is over, we expect to see you home.” She finished before waltzing out of the room.

 

Shizune giggled softly.

 

“Tch… women…” Shikamaru muttered with a sigh, causing Naruto and Neji to grin. “Troublesome…” He finished causing his two dearest friends to exchange a look of amusement.

 

“Judging by that I would assume both you and Neji-kun have yet to return home and inform your families of your return.” The blond woman stated with a roll of her eyes. “But that is another matter…”

 

“Traps you say?” Naruto asked with a fox-like grin. “Neji-kun, can you still design weapons?” The blond questioned the dark haired Hyuuga, gaining a nod of a prroval. “Alright, Tsunade can you have a team of Chuunin assist Neji?” The blue eyed demon container asked, gaining a second nod. “Alright, Shikamaru can you look over blue prints and look for vital weak points and strengths, I'm going to set traps with the Kami here.” He concluded. “Once initial start up is on the go, we will hold our next meeting to elaborate and go further into detail.”

 

And they departed.

- - - - - -

End of Chapter

Oh yeah! I was asked why they say `kun', like after a name. And it was paralleled to fangirls, and I'd like to point out to those silly people that `kun' is a suffix, and that guys either call friends that are male `kun' or just their name. ^^ Depends on them. ^^

Okay, now this is something that irks me. This is a yaoi story, but I have some flames (not that I am against flames) that are like `but you said that there was going to be yaoi and so far there really hasn't been any. I think that you should either put some in or take it out of the yaoi section. Also the last chapter was really short and I waited A MONTH!!!!!!!!!!!!!! for it so can you write another one really soon and make it really good and add yaoi because you said it was yaoi. Also if you don't write another soon then i'll flame you again and again until you do.' Now I'd like to point out that not all `yaoi' labeled stories are going to be PWP (Porn Without Plot), personally, I find those to get trivial and seemingly the same as all the other PWP fics. Now, this is a `story', not a porno, meaning there will be `development', meaning that it won't be a jump the bone and pop it in the pooper. Boooooring! As for the lack of `anything', please analyze and use a brain. (God I sound like my AP English teachers.) There are blaringly obvious romantic hints that even an oblivious being should be able to pick it out. Like Kimimaro pointed out, there is a bond between Naruto and Itachi, just the like the ever growing one between Shikamaru and Neji. If you honestly don't believe that, reread chapter 17 whilst wearing a thinking cap. >.< Wow, that sounded way harsh. But damn some things really irk me. Oh well, thanks loyal readers for reading and sorry about a) lateness, b) shortness. C) another word that ends with `ness'. And d) me bitching. Please review!