Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Naruto Dragon Champion ❯ Aftermath ( Chapter 17 )

Naruto The Twin Swords

Disclaimer: I don't own anything related to Naruto and all media involved.

Chapter 16

Aftermath

( ): Thoughts

((“ ”)): Holy Talon's voice

\” ”/: Kael's voice

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Konoha…

Naruto was currently practicing several new moves with Holy Talon in the forest outside of Konoha. The blonde Dragon Champion and Konoha ninja was training as he normally did but with Holy Talon in his command, things were somewhat different as he began to master several more sword skills and maneuvers. He had some time to practice as his home was among those that were not wrecked at the very moment and he didn't need to shape it up too much.

As he moved with each slash and thrust and hit his targets which were training dummies and large boulders…he thought back on recent events…he had to give credit to the Hokage to have planned ahead of time before the Invasion as he had made several letters to the Council, he had recalled that merely a day or two after the funeral…he had been summoned once more by the Council in the Council meeting chambers…and he was escorted by both Ibiki and Kakashi…Jiraiya was supposed to be along but it seemed that the old pervert had far more interesting things on his mind.

Truth be told he was not comfortable with the Council as many of them were not too trusting of him in the least and some outright hated him. However, there were those that were tolerant and sympathetic to his case…and that was a good thing on his mind. However the more intolerant ones were those who got his goat more than others as some of them had some really outrageous demands of him.

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Flashback…

Naruto looked at the whole Council as they each faced him and he was getting both annoyed and uncomfortable as many of them were staring at him like they were a band of surgeons and he was the test subject for a new surgical procedure, which was bad enough…but the stares they directed on Holy Talon were worse.

He had only recovered fully from the battle with Gaara when he was called into the Council chambers and was escorted by both Ibiki and Kakashi, and amazingly enough, Maito Gai was with them too…all three of them were on his side…either escorting him or sending him to the execution squad, but he trusted Kakashi-sensei and respected both Ibiki-sensei, and Gai-sensei not to ask. As soon as he was calmer…he spoke.

“You summoned me, honored members of the Council?”

Hiashi nodded as he spoke…

“That we did Naruto…we have much to discuss…namely about the events that led to the battle here in the village…and your part in the said events.”

“Does this have anything to do with the soldiers I summoned?”

Inochi nodded and then took his turn to speak.

“That's correct Naruto, while unexpected, the reinforcements you summoned proved invaluable in allowing our ninja to rally and prepare when they were outnumbered by the allied Sand and Sound ninja. For that….this village owes you a debt that no doubt will be hard to repay…”

“That's not why we are here in this meeting…this…thing you have…must be understood.”

One Council member said with a look of disdain at Naruto…and Naruto saw that but ignored it as he looked at the other Council members. The others directed their attention to him and Holy Talon while the three Jonin were nearby as well. It was then that one of the Elders…namely elder Homura took out a set of scrolls and then handed them to the Council…the members of the Council read the letters and as they read the contents…they turned their attention back to Naruto…Chouza was the first to speak.

“So…this sword was made…by Dragons, and from another world no less…that would explain why it has that level of power. That seems rather farfetched though…”

“That might be true…but it does seem to make sense in the long run…so Naruto…you found this sword in Wave Country…or did it find you?”

Shikaku asked as he looked at the sword…trying to study it visually.

“Actually…it was both…”

Naruto then told them all how he had came into contact with Holy Talon and Kakashi verified the story as well…the Council listened and read the letters left by Sarutobi and compared the letters' contents with what Naruto was telling them and found that everything Naruto was telling them was true. Ginji then spoke…

“This sword helped you save my daughter Naruto…and according to the letter of the Hokage… it chose you as it's master….correct?”

“Yes.”

“And how can a sword chose a person? Namely one with your cursed secret?”

One Council member asked with a sneer at Naruto…a look Naruto fought back with intense calm and focus…that made the Council member inch back a bit as Homura, one of the higher ranking Elders in the Council looked at the Council member in question.

“Do not forget that discussion of the Kyuubi is forbidden, even in the walls of the Council chambers…”

“It's all right Elder Homura… but I think it's about time all of you get to hear what I have to say…and I will not be silenced this time…I have waited twelve long years for this chance, and all of you who hate me…you WILL listen to me.”

Homura looked at Naruto with some surprise and so did the rest of the Council. Naruto gave them all a level stare and he was going to finally speak his mind…he had spent time learning much from Holy Talon and after learning more about the Dragon Champions of the past, he was more confident about himself…the previous champions were ordinary people who made the choice in extraordinary times and he was now one of them…He couldn't deny the fact that it hurt him deeply to learn how the Kyuubi was inside of him and how this was the reason that he was abused and mistreated by the village…however, he never forgot that there were those who lived in Konoha who he trusted with his life…and that was why he was not going to let the fact that the Kyuubi was inside of him rule his life forever. There was no denying that the Kyuubi was part of him until he died…but now was time to make it clear to those in the Council how hated him that he was NOT someone they could boss around forever.

“I don't deny the fact that the Kyuubi is inside me…and I know about the damage and death the Kyuubi caused…and what the Fourth did to save Konoha from it and how he died…but I am NOT the Kyuubi you so fear and hate…I am Naruto Uzumaki…and I am NO demon! I am flesh and blood and human like any of you, and I was born in this village like the other Genin from my class…that is something no one here can deny no matter what you say…”

“You will stop this nonsense now brat…”

“I AM NOT FINISHED!!!”

The Council was surprised at the raised tone Naruto had in his voice, none of them expected this to happen, even Kakashi was surprised at this as well…Naruto looked at them intensely and spoke evenly.

“I have lived twelve years being ridiculed, abused, spat on, insulted, isolated, mistreated…and worse, because of something I had no control over! I was a mere baby when the Kyuubi was placed inside of me! A child…barely able to speak and defend himself…let alone know who his parents were, I don't know if they were alive or dead or if they abandoned me after the Kyuubi was sealed inside of me since I have been alone. Every day ever since then I have been treated like a monster for no reason and seen as garbage. Did you really think I was dumb and foolish all my life to bear all that with a smile? You all have no idea how much I have hated and despised the way I was treated, and you know why? Because you have never lived MY life…what right do you have to place yourselves above me and treat me like garbage and think you're better?! I am not some animal that you can abuse and mistreat all you want!”

Kakashi and the two other Jonin looked on and remained silent, as did the rest of the Council.

“This village is my home and there are those who care about me…Iruka-sensei knew about my secret and the Kyuubi killed his parents…but he took care of me, he treated me as a human being and not as a monster, he was the only person to show me that there was someone who cared. He risked his life to save me from that traitorous bastard Mizuki. And there are also other villagers here I care about, like Teuchi and Ayame. And there is my team, with Sakura-chan, Sasuke, and Kakashi-sensei. They and those I call friends are the reason I never became a killing machine who kills without hesitation…think about that for a moment and ask yourselves…would you prefer to have me as a ninja loyal to the people of Konoha or as an enemy?”

Naruto looked at the Council members who he knew had axes to grind against him and silently challenged them to say otherwise and when they were silent, he spoke once more.

“And if anyone here has an issue about what I said…then him and I can step outside of Konoha and fight one another and whoever makes it out will win this argument. That's all I have to say about that matter…but on the matter of Holy Talon…you should have known already from the old man's letters that Holy Talon and I are connected…and no one but me can use Holy Talon's powers.”

The Council discussed matters and while that was going on, Gai leaned in and whispered to Kakashi.

“You're student's got guts Kakashi…that's the first time in Konoha's history that a Genin has ever stood up to the Council…and in such a forceful way too.”

“I know…this is actually kind of interesting.”

“His youth burns like a flame…no wonder he and Lee get along well.”

Ibiki then spoke to the two of them.

“Hey you two…now is not the right time for this….this is a Council room after all.”

The Council finished their discussions and then Homura spoke to Naruto.

“I read in the letter that Holy Talon has…what one would call…built in traps to make sure none but you can hold it…care to explain?”

“It's there in the letters, but to be more direct…if anyone who is not evil hearted or intentioned holds Holy Talon but is not chosen…then lifting Holy Talon by your hands will be like trying to lift a mountain…but if anyone who IS evil tries to hold Holy Talon…then what will happen will be the same as when Orochimaru's arm was incinerated…as I have told you before…Holy Talon reacts very negatively to those who are evil trying to claim it.”

Hiashi then asked Naruto to place Holy Talon on the table and the Hyuuga clan leader studied the sword with the Byakugan and he admitted that what he could see was impressive…as before…it was unlike any sword that he knew that existed in this world…with the Byakugan…he could see very bright lines of power, but it was not chakra…but it must be the energy called magic or Dragon Fire as Naruto explained.

The Hyuuga leader had to admit that this sword was a true work of art…to be able to break Kusanagi…which no one has ever claimed to doing. He then spoke to Naruto.

“How exactly was this sword forged by Dragons…and this Dragon Lord…Lord Faldren of whom the Hokage spoke of?'

“Holy Talon was forged by Faldren and it was made from one of his scales and one of his own talons…and it was blessed his blood, and magical fire…and also with every Dragon under Lord Faldren, namely in his Flight and those of the others.”

“Flight?”

“That's a term for his clan or followers. Every Dragon under Faldren's leadership has contributed to Holy Talon's creation, both in magic and blood.”

“Then this sword should be studied. That is why until further notice…this sword Holy Talon should be under the Council's protection for study.”

Naruto glared at the Council member and spoke.

“You are not going to take Holy Talon from me.”

Ginji then spoke in Naruto's defense.

“I agree with Naruto on this matter, the sword is his and we have no reason to take it from him…and he is the only one who can use it.”

“But we must know more…and as the Council of Konoha…we have the authority to have Naruto relinquish the sword to us.”

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End of Flashback…

Naruto gritted his teeth at the memories as he continued his training and as he cut down through another stone which was in the area…Holy Talon sensed the emotions rolling from it's master.

((“There is something troubling you Master Naruto…”))

(Yeah…I'm really in a pissed off state of mind right now.)

((“This wouldn't happen to concern the Council meeting would it?”))

(Those old bastards…they wanted to strip me of you so they can study you?! What nerve…and after all we both did to help save the village!!)

((“That is understandable…I'm not exactly what one would consider common place here in your world…so I am not surprised that they wanted to study me.”))

(I know…but still…to ask me to formally surrender YOU to the Council…they might mean well, but those guys have absolutely no right to try and take you from me.)

((“True…but no matter what…they can't take me away from you either way…after all, you are my chosen master and I obey only your commands.”))

Naruto loosened his stance and grinned a bit at the truth of that statement…none of the Council could ever lift the sword and that was enough to validate Sarutobi's message that none but Naruto could carry the sword…and access it's limited…but impressive and massive powers. The ones who were against him were not happy and tried to once more to have Naruto formally surrender the sword…but the other Council members forbade that. The meeting wore on until Homura stated that in accordance with the information…Naruto was allowed to keep Holy Talon as the sword was bound to him and none of them could command it.

As he finished his training, Naruto took out a towel and wiped the sweat from his face and he then heard some noise heading towards him…he reflexively got ready to fight…but calmed down when he recognized Kin moving towards him. The former Sound Genin was now formally given her Konoha citizenship papers as requested by Naruto and authorized by the late Hokage…and as she was already a trained Genin, she was formally now a Konoha Genin…though she was not yet placed under the command of a Jonin sensei…not everyone was really welcoming of the former Sound Kunoichi, but Naruto was and that was enough for the former Sound Kunoichi as she trusted Naruto.

“Hey Kin-san…what brings you here?”

Kin stopped and presented a food storage pack and Naruto smelled something that he easily recognized right off the bat.

“RAMEN!!!!”

Kin snickered at the dopey expression Naruto had as he opened the container and saw her favorite pork ramen and took out the chop-sticks and ate the ramen like a hungry wolf. Naruto ate as much as he could until he recalled his manners and spoke to Kin.

“Thanks a lot Kin-san! How did you know about me loving Ramen?”

“Hehe…how else do you think? I cleaned your room and one point and do you know how many instant ramen containers I found? Twenty-seven containers…so it stands to reason you LOVE ramen a lot.”

Naruto rubbed his head and gave a weak laugh until they heard another coming their way and there came Iruka, Naruto smiled as he approached his father figure in the village as the Chuunin whistled at the mess Naruto made while training with Holy Talon and he smiled at his young charge and little brother figure.

“You've been working hard again eh Naruto?”

“Yep! The training helps pass the time plus some new techniques will certainly help me a lot…what brings you here Iruka-sensei? I thought you were helping with the others on rebuilding Konoha?”

“Yes I am…but I came to tell you that we've gotten a message from representatives from the Village of the Hidden Sand.”

“Oh?”

“Apparently they had recently found their Fourth Kazekage dead and it's the real Kazekage and his guards as well…evidence suggests that Orochimaru had murdered the Kazekage and his guards days before the Chuunin Exams and took his place…he played both sides and helped orchestrate the attacks both as himself and as the Kazekage.”

Naruto growled.

“I thought as much…so how is the Sand Village handling the discovery?”

“Not too well…they are still in shock and the intern Council they have there in their village is working hard to find a good replacement for their leader…”

“They should have Gaara as their leader.”

“What makes you say that Naruto?”

“Gaara's not just the son of the Kazekage…but I have a feeling…a thought that sooner or later…he would be a Kazekage the village of Hidden Sand will be proud of. I don't know why I feel that it might happen…but I do.”

“Well, that will have to be determined by how Gaara performs and the decision of the Council of the Hidden Sand Village when the time comes to promote a Kazekage…by the way…what do you plan to do later Naruto…you could certainly help in the rebuilding of the village.”

“Maybe later Iruka-sensei…there are some things I have to work on for a bit.”

Kin then smiled as she packed up the remains of the ramen dishes and knew that she would have to return to the Ichiraku Ramen stand to give back the dishes. Teuchi and Ayame willingly made the meal for Naruto, as Naruto's break-fast food stub had been left by him in the apartment when he went out to get some training in. As she made her way back, Iruka left as well to do his part in the rebuilding…while Naruto decided to train a bit more as he now had the energy of having a full stomach.

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Later…

As it was now lunch time…Naruto decided to head back home to get the rest of his food stubs. He had been training in both the Boundless State and several more sword moves that another Dragon Champion named Vane had taught him. Vane had been nameless before but it turned out that he was the maker of the Sword Breaker technique that he had used in the Forest of Death to shatter Kusanagi before, Vane had been impressed with the techniques Naruto had developed and he was willing to teach Naruto some tricks of his own. Vane was a War Blade and had taught Naruto some dual wielding techniques when Naruto carried a wooden stick just for a change of pace…and Naruto learned how to master the fighting style a bit.

As he made it back to his home…he began to wonder about what he had learned from Gamabunta days before…about Gaara's insomnia due to the Shukaku being sealed inside of him since he was a baby. He thought about this long and hard and wondered if he could at least let Gaara have some peace in his life…it was then that an idea struck him.

(Holy Talon?)

((“Yes, Master Naruto?”))

(I was wondering about the Dragon Seal that you placed to reinforce the seal holding the Kyuubi…)

((“What is it you want to know about it?”))

(Is it possible to create a seal just like it…so as to shield a person's mind and soul from a force inside the mind?)

((“Yes, that is very much possible…is this for someone in particular?”))

(Yeah…I think Gaara's suffered enough with the Shukaku and he deserves to have some measure of peace in his life…and for what I have in mind, this will do just fine.)

((Sounds workable…but you're going to need some training on how make the seal yourself…so you won't make any mistakes when you make the seal. I'll show you how it's done.”))

As Naruto checked his home he found it to be rather clean and all the normal garbage in his apartment was meticulously ordered and then placed in colored containers, Kin certainly cleaned up the place and he had to admit that it was kind of nice that she was helping out in her stay in his apartment and her own home. As he sat in the living room, he sat down on the couch and relaxed as Holy Talon began to teach him how to better utilize the creation methods of the Dragon Seal and how to use it properly.

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Elsewhere in Konoha…

Sakura sighed as she helped haul several bags of groceries that her mother had been able to purchase from the market. Sakura's mother had volunteered to cook food for the reconstruction crews while her father Ginji was currently on routine patrol with the rest of the ninja who could be spared for the missions of keeping out possible attackers. She had hoped to check out how her other team-mates were doing at the moment but right now there was a lot of work to be done in rebuilding Konoha…she knew that Ino and her own team-mates were doing their part in rebuilding the village and so were the others….except Rock Lee who was still in recovery.

As she placed down the groceries…her mother called her.

“Dear…I happen to have some extra packs of beef dumplings left in the pantry for lunch…I want you to have them for today so enjoy them while their still hot.”

“Thanks mom!”

Sakura took the packs after placing the groceries where her mother needed them to be, and wondered just who she could share the food with…naturally her thoughts went to both Sasuke and Naruto, but Sasuke was currently in training and was not in any of the normal places she knew to find him…so she decided to reserve a few of them for him when she had the time to find him and decided to head off to Naruto's apartment. As she did so…she wondered just what Sasuke was doing.

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Sasuke was currently sitting on the roof of the Academy, the same place where he and the others of team Kakashi had met in their days in the graduation. He had a lot on his mind as he recalled several events patiently as he could, he recalled the battle with Gaara in the ring and how deadly the Sand sibling was. And what he had seen when he fought Gaara…and then the battle between Naruto and Gaara…and he recalled how he had been relegated into the side-lines when he ran out of chakra…

(I couldn't do a damn thing…even with my choice to use the Cursed Seal…I couldn't do anything…but Naruto did something…he fought Gaara…and won…)

Sasuke sighed as he looked at the clouds and wondered what he should do now and he wondered about what he had been able to learn about Holy Talon when he had managed to eavesdrop on the conversation with the deceased Hokage and Naruto and Holy Talon's creator and `father' Dragon Lord Faldren. He recalled Holy Talon's creator stating about the past battles between his kind and that of their dark kin and also about the Chaos Dragons creating Holy Talon's only rival in power…Death Fang…

He shook his head at the thought and decided to go grab a bite to eat so as to calm himself and think more clearly…there wasn't much for him to do as the compound of the Uchiha Clan was still very much intact and unharmed so he decided to go to the fields and get some exercise in. Afterwards…he would go back to his home and get some sleep…no sense losing his strength by staying up late.

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“Naruto-kun? Are you here?”

Sakura asked as she opened the door into Naruto's apartment and as she went in…she was amazed to find the place clean and orderly, and for a moment, she had thought that she was under a Genjutsu of some sort…but she sensed none at the moment and recalled that Naruto never used Genjutsu at all in the times she had known him as her team-mate. That then told her that maybe the reason the place looked nice was because of Kin, as the newly instated Konoha Kunoichi might have something of a cleanliness passion…or she was not liking the idea of living in a place that resembled a dump site…if it was either of the two she had no idea yet. But for now…she was interested in finding out just what it was that Naruto was up to.

She placed the dumplings on the table and looked about and sure enough…found Naruto was he seemed to be making some form of seal on a block of wood and chanting in the same unknown language. The seal resembled a pair of Dragons in the color of deep brown protecting a human shaped figure with what appeared to be a large object behind it…that looked familiar to her and there were four characters that were on the sides of the Dragons…Naruto's eyes were closed as he spoke in the language and while she had no idea what he was doing…Sakura could tell that this was a very delicate situation and distracting Naruto was not the best of ideas…she looked as she saw that Holy Talon was nearby and it was then that she saw the glowing eye in the hand guard…she was surprised at first but didn't do anything. Naruto finished the last of the words and with a quick motion…he made a gesture and the seal glowed deep golden and seemed to suddenly come to life as the Dragons began to move in a rotating motion around the human figure and then lines of energy surrounded the human figure…like a cage of some sort and then the cage seemed to surround and guard the figure and the Dragons seemed to return to normal as the golden light faded…the glowing eye in Naruto's sword seemed to close as lids of metal covered it like a closing eye.

Sakura gasped a bit and was surprised as Naruto turned and with eyes open and smiled at her..

“Thanks for not distracting me Sakura-chan…I really need to focus on this seal to get it to work. But what brings you here anyway?”

“My mom gave me a good number of fresh beef dumplings to have for lunch, I figured I could bring some to you and Sasuke-kun…would you like some?'

Naruto smiled at that and replied.

“Of course!”

By the way…what sort of seal is this?”

“It's a special protection seal I was working on…it's for someone in need of one.”

“Really? Who is that person anyway?”

“I'll tell you some other time…but I really need to eat something…making that seal work, despite being a trial run is tiring work.”

Sakura and Naruto sat down on his table and after saying the usual exuberant blessings to eating, the two began to eat the dumplings. While Naruto relished ramen, he was open to eating other foods as well and the fact that Sakura was with him at the moment made it even nicer for him as well as he munched down on the dumplings. Sakura watched as Naruto ate hungrily…and while he was still a bit messy in eating, the smile on his face told her volumes of how happy he was to have a meal. The two ate their food and it was then that a knock caught their attention and Naruto left the table and went to the door…and when he opened it…he was in for a bit of a surprise…

As Hinata stood there with a small basket in her hands and a blush on her face…

“Hinata-san? What are you doing here?”

“I-I-I um…wanted to…bring you…something to eat…N-Naruto-kun.”

Naruto looked at the basket and smelled the food inside quite easily and the smell made his stomach rumble…much to his embarrassment and Hinata's light hearted chuckle. He recalled his manners and allowed Hinata inside and the Hyuuga girl slowly walked in as she realized that this was going to be the very first time she was in Naruto's place. He led her to the dining area where Sakura still was and she was a bit saddened that Sakura was in the same room as her, as she knew that Naruto had a crush on his team-mate…but she was not going to lose now as she shyly presented the basket and when she removed the cover and revealed several rice cakes, some fruits, and also some sashimi and tempura. Naruto had to admit that this was really nice of Hinata to give him a large meal like this by herself. He tried some of the food after asking Hinata's permission, to which she shyly gave and found them to be pretty darn tasty…he had no idea Hinata was a good cook.

After having another bite, he gave his approval to Hinata…

“Wow! You're a really great cook Hinata-san! You'd make a prefect wife to the man you marry someday!”

Hinata blushed profusely at that praise and twiddled her fingers as she looked down and muttered timidly.

“T-T-Thank you, N-N-N-Naruto-kun…”

As Naruto ate the food, Hinata blushed as she looked at her longtime crush and recalled his compliment to her and she felt her heart race as she replayed those words in her mind over and over again. Sakura looked at the two and wondered why she suddenly felt some level of envy and jealousy towards Hinata, she then looked at Naruto and some strange sensations filled her as she gazed at her team-mate.

(What am I doing? I feel jealous towards Hinata…but why?)

(I can't be jealous of Hinata…but yet I am…is it because I…like Naruto-kun?)

Sakura thought about that and decided to put that aside as Naruto continued to eat away. She had to admit that she was seeing Naruto in a different light and wondered about how she should act…sure she was nicer towards him…but could she take it any higher? She decided to just relax and try to sort things out before making a decision on how to handle this situation she had found herself in involving Naruto.

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Later…

Naruto sighed as he walked out into the field and felt very full…he had thanked both Sakura and Hinata for the wonderful lunch making them smile at him, he then bid farewell to them both as he moved to the field outside of Konoha, but before he did so…he decided to pay a visit to both Teuchi and Ayame to see how they were doing…the two greeted him and Ayame handed him one of the stand's most expensive ramen and all she did was smile and kiss Naruto in the cheek.

Naturally Naruto blushed and asked what that kiss was for…and she replied that it was for saving her and her father during the attack on Konoha. Naruto blushed and thanked her and Teuchi for the food and ate the meal and as soon as he was done, he carried on and made his way to the field…however he suddenly found himself blocked by none other than Jiraiya himself…the Toad sage smiled and greeted the blonde ninja.

“Hello there Naruto…how are things so far?”

“Fine, Pervy Sage, what are you up to?”

“Oh…here and there…just my usual research…”

“You mean peeking at naked woman again? Don't you have anything better to do? It's hard to picture a perverted old man like you as a legendary ninja you know…”

“Hmph…I am merely inspired by beauty…and after all…my novels are loved by all my readers…”

“Yeah…sure they are…now I have to go for a bit…I need to leave for Gaara's village.”

Jiraiya gave a surprised look at that announcement and spoke.

“You're going to Suna at this time of the day? May I ask why…since you realize that what you have in mind is a bad idea….”

“I'm planning to give Gaara something…something that could help him with his Shukaku problem.”

“Really? Care to tell me what it is?”

“It's kind of hard to explain…so let me shorten the whole idea then….L learned how to make a seal that follows the same one as the one I have…except this will protect Gaara from Shukaku and allow him to sleep.”

Jiraiya thought it over and had to admit that it was a very interesting idea…if the seal was the same as what Naruto had to protect him even further from the Kyuubi, then it would certainly be a great aid to Gaara. He thought over it a bit more and nodded.

“All right…so how do you plan to go to Suna? As far as I know, it take some time to get to Suna and you can bet that the Elders are NOT going to let you go out on your own all of a sudden.”

Naruto grinned and replied.

“I'm taking a ride…”

Jiraiya looked a bit curiously and put two and two together and smiled as he spoke once more.

“All right…but don't take too long or else every elder is going to be breathing down everyone's neck looking for you. By the way…when you get back…I have a proposition for you.”

Naruto was confused and made an assumption and glared at Jiraiya and pointed his finger at him.

“I AM NOT GOING TO HELP YOU PEEK AT WOMEN IN THE BATH-HOUSE YOU PERVY SAGE!!!!”

Jiraiya laughed and replied.

“I don't need help to do my research Naruto…it's something else…I need your help to find an old friend of mine. You see…the elders came to me a few hours before and asked me to be the Hokage and trust me…I have no intention of being Hokage…for one thing…I prefer freedom and no duties other than what I love doing…but I know someone who can be a very capable Hokage…”

Naruto thought about it and then recalled something that he had heard from Sakura about the Sannin…there was no way Orochimaru was going to be the one Jiraiya had in mind and since there was only one other Sannin on record, that one must be the one Jiraiya had in mind.

“You're referring to your team-mate Tsunade right?”

“Good guess…how did you know?”

“Sakura-chan told me about it one time in the Forest of Death. So she's the one you have in mind to be Hokage?”

“Yep…she's got the brains and the blood line to go with it…I volunteered to go and look for her…and while they wanted to assign some Jonin with me, I told them it's better that the Jonin remain here to help with the protection of the village…I already have a person in mind to help me in my mission.”

“Oh really? So who's the unlucky character who's going to accompany you?”

“Hehehe…I'm looking at him.”

Naruto's eyes widened at that statement and gave Jiraiya a look.

“Why the heck did you pick me?! I have a lot of things left to do here in Konoha…I don't have time to waste accompanying a dirty old man who might start peeking at women again!”

“I picked you for a reason Naruto…and it's not because of your personality…I picked you because you are going to learn a jutsu that can beat the one you've seen Sasuke use…”

“What? You're going to teach me a jutsu that can rival the Chidori?!”

“Of course…it will be a personal jutsu for you…that is what I am going to offer to you…if you want to come along that is. If you don't want to…I might as well teach Sasuke the jutsu…”

Naruto thought about it and had to admit that having his personal jutsu was a very interesting technique, which he could use in conjunction with Holy Talon's powers and that was further incentive…besides, it would give him something to equalize with Sasuke when they fought and he didn't have Holy Talon with him. He had seen how Chidori works and had to admit that it's a powerful jutsu and to have something to rival it was certainly a very tempting idea…and when the time came for him and Sasuke to face off, he would have something to help him in the fight to prove he's a ninja equal to anyone…even his team-mate.

“All right…I'm in…but you'll have to wait for me tomorrow…I still have to test the seal when Gaara goes to sleep.”

“Good, don't take too long.”

With that, Naruto repeated the same commands as before and when the ritual was finished…Kael appeared and the Sky Dragon greeted it's master/summoner with a toothy grin.

\”Is there something you need from me Master?”/

“A lift would be nice…I need to go to the Village of Hidden Sand.”

\”Consider it done.”/

----------

In the village of the Hidden Sand…

“Come again? What do you mean you want to be Kazekage Gaara?”

Kankurou was surprised at their brother's announcement as he and Temari looked at Gaara who was staring out the window of their home in the main Kazekage residence. They had been able to make it back and Gaara was allowed to recover on his own…some of the villagers and even members of the Council were surprised a bit when Gaara seemed…different, though they were still somewhat uneasy about him. Gaara paid it no mind and seemed to be deep in thought at times…though he was more sociable with the two of them and even Baki…and like them and the others, the Jonin was surprised at Gaara's behavior.

“I meant what I said Kankurou, I will do my best to take the title of Kazekage.”

Temari was very curious about this as well and decided to ask her youngest brother a question.

“Gaara…you seem different ever since that battle with that Naruto guy…what happened?”

Gaara turned and faced both his siblings and replied.

“I had my eyes opened to something I thought I would never see…he was…is the same as me.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“Naruto Uzumaki…had the same life as I did…he has a demon sealed inside of him as well.”

Kankurou's eyes widened at that remark and so did Temari, and the middle brother was the first to say something.

“Are you saying that he's…”

“A demon container like me brother…yes…but he's different…very different. Even after being reviled and hated by others…he still wants to protect the people, he wants to save them, and because they were precious to him…I used to think such things were weaknesses, they made you soft and easy prey…but he was able to beat me with all that he had…he was even willing to die for them because they were precious to him…and that gave him the power to beat me. He understood me…because he and I are the same, and he told me so when he showed me his seal where his demon was being held inside of him…he had the Kyuubi inside of him…and we all knew what happened then when the Kyuubi attacked Konoha…that is why many must have hated him…yet he was strong…not from hatred…but by love…. And it was love for others, not for himself.”

“Gaara…”

“I want to be that strong as well…and I want to make up for all the times I was being a monster to everyone here in the village…if he could be strong for others…then I want to be like that as well.”

The two looked and saw that their little brother meant every word…Temari and Kankurou watched as Gaara turned his attention back to the window as he looked at the village of his birth, and as he did so they each looked at one another and wondered what the future held for Gaara.

It was then that they had received a message that the village of Konoha had accepted their unconditional surrender and at that moment, there would no longer be any hostilities between Konoha and Suna. Temari sighed and was thankful that the attempt at peace was accomplished and she decided to think on other matters, namely on what Gaara had told them…she would have never guessed that the blonde ninja who she met was the same as her youngest brother…before this sudden change…Naruto was Gaara's total polar opposite…and to know that he had done the impossible and defeated Gaara was a mark of how skilled and powerful the blonde was…she had seen his power before and to know that he had actually changed her brother made her even more intrigued and interested in him…not only did he look handsome, and powerful…but he was a positive influence on her brother Gaara as well.

It was a shame that he was not around for to show him her appreciation…she still recalled his invitation to her to try some of the ramen from his village.

However…it was then that an alarm came out and all three of them rushed out of the building along with the ninja of the village, all armed and ready for anything…anything that is, except a massive reptile with wings coming right at them. The ninja were about to attack…but the Sand Siblings and even Baki, who had arrived as well, recognized Kael as the same dragon ridden by Naruto when he arrived at the arena days before in Konoha, and as the dragon came closer…they spotted Naruto riding behind the creature. Gaara then turned to Baki and spoke.

“Tell the others to calm down Baki.”

Baki looked at Gaara and seeing that Gaara was serious about this, turned and gave the order…the other Sand ninja were still unsure but they were not going to go forward and contradict Gaara and as such, they lowered their weapons as the Dragon landed before them and Naruto got off from his mount and walked over to Gaara…and much to the surprise of everyone Gaara looked at Naruto in way that was…respectful.

“Naruto Uzumaki…what brings you all the way out here?”

Naruto grinned and replied.

“Figured I'd drop by and say hi…not to mention hand you a gift…you mind if we talk somewhere else?”

Gaara thought about it and nodded.

“Doesn't sound like too much to ask…though I recommend you tell your dragon to not be here…you're attracting quite the crowd.”

Naruto noted that as large numbers of villagers were staring in utter shock at the presence of Kael in the village…along with other matters. Naruto turned to his Dragon mount and Kael nodded in agreement and took off and then flew away from the wall of stone that surrounded the village of Suna from the high winds that passed through the desert on a regular basis. As the dragon left Gaara accompanied Naruto while Temari and Kankurou followed.

Later…

“Are you serious?”

Temari asked Naruto as the blonde ninja and Dragon Champion explained the reason why he was visiting. He had been given something to eat and drink as it had been a long journey from Konoha to Suna…even on a Dragon's back. Naruto ate the food readily and as he finished…he explained about the Dragon seal that further contained the Kyuubi inside of him and explained that he had created a seal that could help contain the Shukaku even further and allow Gaara to fully control the sand demon raccoon. Needless to say, Gaara was somewhat surprised, while Kankurou was naturally wary of this whole thing.

“That I am Temari-san…I've been working on the seal and I am quite sure it will be able to shield Gaara from Shukaku and allow Gaara more control over him.”

Kankurou looked a bit skeptical at that idea as he was somewhat familiar with how hard it was for their own village to seal a demon properly and he was not quite sure that the seal would work on Gaara, and that was one of the reasons why he asked this question to Naruto.

“Are you sure the seal you have in mind will work? As far as I know…there's been no seal to contain…well, the Shukaku.”

Since there were only four of them, they were allowed to talk freely, and it was also then that Temari tentatively asked Naruto a question.

“Naruto-kun…Gaara told me and Kankurou that you…ah…”

“Have the Kyuubi inside of me? It's true Temari-san. You saw the chakra of the Kyuubi in the arena before when I fought with Neji before. And yes…my life's been the same as Gaara's but I have others with me who mean a lot to me…and I have no doubts that Gaara will find people important for him to protect as well. And the seal I have is double protected by the Dragon seal…the very same seal I made for Gaara and I can assure you…it works perfectly…the only thing I need is Gaara to agree to this, once he does so…the seal will adapt and bind to him quickly. You see, it only works at full power if the one to be given the seal is willing.”

Naruto then directed his attention to Gaara who thought about it and had to admit the offer was very tempting…the ability to finally control the demon within him for nearly twelve years was certainly something that Gaara wanted…and to finally be allowed a measure of peace in his life was certainly something that he wanted more than anything in his life. He thought about the offer more carefully and decided to ask something important.

“What else will the seal do?”

Naruto thought it over and Holy Talon's explanations to him about the seal's powers and what could be the effects when given to a person. He thought back during his time back in his apartment in Konoha when he was making the seal and had asked the question of what sort of magical powers did Holy Talon possess.

----------

Flashback…

((“You wish to know about magic Master Naruto?”))

(Yeah…exactly what sort of powers do you have anyway?)

Naruto was busy working on the seal's first methods when the question came to his mind…he recalled the instances where he used the powers of Holy Talon in his battles…but he decided to try and get a much better understanding if he was ever able to even up to the soon to arrive user of Death Fang and he knew that while he was a Dragon Champion…compared to the past champions…he was still somewhat unskilled as they were. And so it would be a lot more effective if he knew just what other abilities he had. Holy Talon was pleased with hit's master's question and decided to teach him the fundamental basics of magic.

((“This might be a long discussion Master Naruto…”))

(Go on…I always wanted to know ever since I got to have you by my side.)

((“Very well…as you know…the magical source of my abilities which are now yours is from Dragon Fire, as Dragons of either Holy or Chaos sect are creatures born of this magic's very essence, magic is as natural to them as eating is to you Master. There are several branches of magic that exist in me, there is elemental magic, namely Fire, Water, Earth, Air, and Energy, the other branches also include Mind, Body, Life, Nature, Vision, Summoning, Transmutation/Enchanting , and Divine. Now each branch of magic is present in all Dragons though some are more skilled at a certain branch than others, only Lord Faldren can command all branches without any difficulty as he is the leader of all Holy Dragons. “))

((“There are a large number of spells that are under my control and yours…but as before some higher level spells are not allowed for you to use until you are talented and strong enough to use them effectively without fear…though I suggest that you limit your use of the high level spells as they are taxing on the reserves of Dragon Fire I have in me…if you use one…say summoning Lord Faldren himself in combat, which I must say is only as a very desperate resort, it will deplete me of my power and I will need a large amount of time to recover my reserves. On the case of a Dragon seal…it has a tendency to become interdependent when it is needed, in simpler terms if the right incantation and spell is used…the seal will evolve to host an amount of Dragon Fire…allowing another to cast spells using Dragon Fire. This also works with the seal you're making for Gaara.”))

(What do you mean?)

((“The seal as I have said, has a tiny reserve of Dragon Fire…to power the seal itself along with the will and strength of the one with the seal. If you so choose to improve the seal and bless it with a certain amount of power and if you so desire…infuse or enchant it with a magical branch…then the person in question will have a simpler mastery of the said branch.”))

(That person can use magic?)

((“Yes…more or less…it can also give some greater physical traits if you so wish…Dragon Seals are only used if necessary Master…for their use can be abused by others…so that is why make the seal only if you have complete faith in that person and he or she is truly trust worthy to possess the seal.”))

(So it's like the Cursed Seal that Orochimaru placed on Sasuke…only it's not going to be evil?)

((“In that respect, yes…and since it does not corrupt others in the same fashion as the Cursed Seal…it is safe to place on others…however, I cannot be sure how it would react if you attempt to place the seal on your team-mate…doing so might place averse consequences on him.”))

(It will not harm Gaara?)

(No Master Naruto…it is perfectly safe for him.)

(That's good…)

----------

End of Flashback…

“It can help you control Shukaku like I said…but it will also be able to regulate his chakra and control it while preserving your personality by shielding you from it's influence…so you can be yourself even when you are using Shukaku's full power.”

Gaara took in that new information and thought it over and after some time…he gave his answer.

“I agree…you can place the seal on me.”

Temari was surprised and Kankurou was worried about what this meant…sure he would want Gaara to finally be able to control that thing inside of him and if the seal works…then all the better…but only IF it works…and he was not sure about that yet. As far as he knew…there was nothing in the village that could help Gaara control the demon inside of him, and there was a chance that the Seal Naruto had would fail.

“Are you sure about this Gaara?”

“I have to agree with Kankurou, Gaara, if this fails…you know what might happen to you…and this time…you might…”

“I know Temari…I know what will happen all too well…but I will do this, if this will help me in finally being at peace and being in full command of the Shukaku for the first time in my life…then so be it…and I will never allow myself to fall again. You have to trust me as much as I trust Naruto to do this.”

Temari sighed and felt a great deal of anxiety and fear as she thought about what could happen if the seal failed and Shukaku got loose in the very heart of the village. She turned to Naruto and stared at him darkly.

“Naruto-kun…I am going to let you do this to Gaara…but if this fails…and you are still alive and I am as well…so Kami help me I will beat you to a bloody pulp.”

Kankurou gulped and recalled that while his sister was the more peace loving among them…she can be very temperamental when she was riled, and he too looked at Naruto.

“I still don't trust you…but I trust my sister Temari…if you get this wrong Naruto…then I'm going to be the one to beat you up even further if she's done with you…get me?!”

Naruto nodded and as he and Gaara left to the room to begin the seal he whispered to Gaara.

“Don't take this the wrong way Gaara…but Temari-san can be scary when she's mad.”

Gaara gave a smile and a slight chuckle at that.

“Yes, she can be…before I…well…before I became what I was before…she used to scare me too when she got mad.”

----------

Elsewhere…

“Damn…the pain is immense….”

“I'm sorry Orochimaru-sama but this kind of injury is something not even my talents can cure.”

Orochimaru groaned as he sat down…trying all manner of medicine to counter this pain…but it was too much even for his vast knowledge to counter…and Kabuto saying that even he couldn't sure this condition wasn't doing much to alleviate his mood.

“I killed my sensei…and all it cost me were all my jutsu and my arms…if only I had been able to get the Sharingan before…but Itachi was stronger than I was…my chakra might have nearly beaten him…but his Sharingan is at it's peak and more…”

Kabuto nodded as he too knew of the Sharingan's powers.

“That is true…but as you have said…Sasuke is still a viable option for you…and with the seal you have placed on him…he will be tempted indeed.”

Orochimaru smiled at that…but gave a slight frown…

“Be that as it may Kabuto…I still need my body fully restored…and I know of only one person with the gift needed to defeat the effects of the old man's jutsu…a Medic-nin who's talents and abilities are without match…she even possesses a jutsu that even I envy…”

“You mean your fellow Sannin Tsunade? But that will not be easy…even if she is not in Konoha…or has loyalty to it at the moment…she will not be so easily coerced to help you Orochimaru-sama.”

“True…but there are some things about my former team-mate I know that can be of…use to me.”

----------

The next day…

Gaara opened his eyes and saw the sun's light filter into his room…he felt his body and looked at his hands…there was no sign of any sand around his bed and no blood or destruction either…and he turned his head to see that it was already seven in the morning. The Shukaku container slowly rose out of his bed and sat there for a moment… he recalled the seal being placed on him…he prepared himself for the pain as Naruto chanted and placed the seal…but there was no pain…just a simple warmth and then a quick flash of heat that last for a moment and then it was over…he then went to sleep in his room, and for the first time…managed to sleep without using any jutsu…

He vividly remembered seeing Shukaku roaring towards him as it normally did in his dreams…but suddenly bars of glowing energy seemed to appear out of nowhere and block Shukaku…he recalled the demon's attempts to shatter that cage…but to no avail…the cage surrounded him and it was then that two Dragons of brown color like earth appeared and surrounded Shukaku's cage. He saw the one of the Dragons turn and speak to him.

(Rest now Gaara…we shall watch over the demon and protect you.)

And Gaara slept…and for the first time since being born…Gaara was not attacked by Shukaku and he felt his personality heal and mend for the first time in twelve years…it was a good feeling.

He looked at saw the sunlight and blinked a bit to get used to the glare…but he reveled in the warmth the light brought in as he got off his bed and then got dressed in his new garb…as he finished, he saw the same black bags under his eyes in the mirror…but they were not that black anymore and his eyes showed him relaxation and peace…two things he never had in a long time. As his gourd reformed on his back he looked at himself once more and went down the stairs and made his way to the main room.

He found Kankurou working on his puppet and Temari cleaning her fan, and as he arrived, Naruto appeared in the room, having been given a place to stay by Temari in the village, namely one of their hotels. The blonde greeted them all and to the amazement of his two siblings Gaara greeted Naruto with a smile…

A smile that didn't hold any of the usual negative emotions and blood thirstiness they were normally seeing in his smile…but a very friendly one…that was enough for them to get up and stop what they were doing. Naruto smiled back and asked Gaara a question.

“So? How was your first night of uninterrupted sleep?”

“It was worth it…your seal worked perfectly Naruto…last night was the first night in twelve years I ever got to sleep peacefully, thank you.”

“You're welcome…after all you've gone through Gaara, you deserve to have some peace in your life. I have to be heading back to Konoha today…I'm supposed to be accompanying the Pervy Sage on a mission to find one of his team-mates.”

Kankurou, and Temari, even Gaara was curious about that term. Kankurou was the first to ask.

“Who's this guy you're calling the Pervy Sage anyway?”

“His name's Jiraiya and he's one of the Sannin…he's the guy who writes those perverted novels that my Jonin sensei Kakashi has on hand most of the time.”

Kankurou's eyes widened at that and he had a surprised look in his eyes.

“You know the author of those novels?”

“Yep…why do you ask?”

Kankurou scratched his head and gave a weak smirk and replied.

“Oh nothing…well…good luck on whatever it is your doing.”

Gaara smiled a bit and nodded in agreement.

“Good luck in that mission Naruto…and knowing you…it will succeed.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence Gaara!”

Gaara then smiled at Naruto and laughed a bit…making Kankurou and Temari look at him with utter surprise. Kankurou was still trying to get used to seeing his once psychotic and demented little brother being this calm, cool, relaxed, and friendly. Temari felt warmth and happiness for her brother and also gratitude to Naruto for making this happen and she wanted to thank him and it was then that she recalled the invitation that he had given her before when they first met.

“Naruto-kun…do you recall the invitation that you gave me when we first met?”

Naruto thought about that and remembered the invitation he gave to Temari to try some of the ramen that he loved so much, he nodded and answered the question.

“I haven't forgotten about that Temari-san, do you want to go to Konoha and try it out?”

“Of course…I wouldn't be asking if I didn't want to you know.”

“That's great! But I can't exactly have you come along if your brother don't mind.”

Gaara looked at Temari and Naruto and gave a smile and nodded his approval, and while Kankurou was not liking the idea at the very moment, he decided to agree since he was sure that Temari was more than capable in defending herself on the off chance that Naruto Uzumaki got too frisky with his hands…he knew full well how Temari acted around perverts. Not to mention he was not going to tempt fate and disagree with his younger brother at the moment.

As Temari and Naruto left the building, Naruto made a mental command and sure enough, Kael revealed himself once more. The sky Dragon had taken refuge outside of the walls of Suna and had arrived to pick up it's master, the villagers were stunned as the Dragon returned and landed in the open area to await it's Master…on the way…Naruto decided to ask Temari a question…concerning Kankurou's reaction to him being a traveling companion to the Pervy Sage.

“Temari-san…can I ask you something?”

“Sure Naruto-kun, what is it you want to know?”

“How does Kankurou know about the Pervy Sage being a novelist?”

Temari chuckled and then whispered in Naruto's ear.

“That's cause Kankurou's got a considerable collection of those novels himself. He's a big fan of Jiraiya's writing.”

THAT got Naruto's attention as he didn't figure Gaara's big brother to be the perverted type like his sensei Kakashi, the mere thought of the tough talking and rough and tumble Kankurou having perverted tendencies like his teacher Kakashi was certainly unexpected. He looked at Temari's mischievous look and saw that there was no lie in her words in the least and that meant that the guy did have a collection of those trashy perverted novels.

“Are you serious?!”

“That I am Naruto-kun…as far as I know…my brother's got at least sixteen of those trashy books as well.”

“How do you know that anyway?”

Temari grinned and replied.

“I caught him reading one a long time ago, and I managed to locate his stash at some point…but it's my brother's life so I never bothered to tell him that I know about it…and neither should you…he's rather touchy about that stuff and the novels are all in pristine order. He takes care of them like his puppet as well.”

As the two of them got on the Dragon's back, Kael greeted Temari who was still getting used to the fact that the dragon she was riding on could talk back to her like a normal person, it didn't take too long for the two to arrive at Konoha as Kael set down in the fields nearby. And afterwards…Naruto bid his dragon companion farewell. The two made their way to the stand and Naruto paid for Temari's meal and she had to admit that Naruto's praise of the meal was well warranted.

As they finished their meal of ramen, Temari smiled as Naruto seemed at ease and she saw the way Teuchi and Ayame cared for Naruto and saw that their affection for him was genuine and it made her see that this was one of the reasons that Naruto was not the same as Gaara. She noted that Ayame had a deeper look of affection towards Naruto and that made her feel a bit jealous but decided not to act on it for the time being and as she tried another meal along with Naruto, she got see the blonde ninja in a different light as he reveled in his favored food.

As they finished…Naruto decided to take Temari for a walk and while they were doing so…Temari turned and smiled at Naruto.

“I wanted to say thank you Naruto-kun…not just for the meal…but for being able to help my little brother Gaara…you're the first friend my little brother ever had and you've done him a great service by giving him that seal.”

“You're welcome Temari-san…by the way…do you want me to escort you back to your village? It is a long way from here after all.”

“No need…I can handle myself just fine…but before I go…”

Temari then reached forward and kissed Naruto right on the lips, surprising the blonde ninja as Temari held the kiss for a few minutes and then leaned back and blushed as Naruto did as well. She smiled and spoke as she took her leave.

“Take care Naruto-kun…”

Naruto ran his hand on his lips as he recalled Temari's action and had to admit that the Wind Mistress of Hidden Sand was not a bad kisser. He was lucky that Gaara and Kankurou were not around….even if Gaara was a friend to him, he didn't know how his friend would react if he saw that…and he didn't even want to guess what Kankurou's reaction was going to be.

Later…

Naruto arrived at his apartment and was greeted by Kin who was curious why he was not around, and she was not happy with the fact that he wasn't around in the house as she and the others were waiting for him…when Naruto asked just who she was referring to, it was Sakura, Ino, and Hinata. The three girls had gone looking for him when he disappeared for nearly an entire day and they were rather worried, they had asked help from Kiba and Akamaru, along with Hinata's cousin Neji. And even Tenten was there as well at the moment.

Naruto wasn't expecting this much company in his apartment and decided to explain his absence…though only partially as he was not sure about how they would react if he told them about the Dragon seal and Gaara's condition…when he said he was going with Jiraiya to find Tsunade and convince the Sannin's team-mate to be Hokage…they were surprised as this was totally unheard of for a high ranking ninja to take merely a Genin and a single one at that on such a mission. They wished Naruto the best of luck and he thanked them for that as he decided to pack as much food and supplies as he needed and they had to leave as they had their own duties to perform…Hinata was going back to training, Kin had to help in the defense of her new home, Sakura had to help her mother and father, Ino had to help her family as well, while Tenten had to help check on her recovering team-mate Rock Lee.

----------

Sasuke was busy on his training when he spotted a hawk coming at his direction with a message container. He opened it and read the message and it was for him to meet up with Kakashi later…

(I wonder what he wants from me this time?)

Kakashi was busy on several matters and had been busy sharpening his own skills at the moment…and he turned to see Asuma and Kurenai having a bit of a discussion. The two were all right at the moment and while Kurenai had respect for Asuma…he wasn't entirely her type at the moment. But they worked well as a team and she respected his close combat skills and he in turn respected her Genjutsu.

As the two approached…Kakashi then noted something else…two hooded figures wearing clacks of some sort and straw hats as well with side coverings and writing that he couldn't see just yet…one was taller than the other and carried what appeared to be a bundle of some sort. Something was off about the two…he had wanted to chat to Sasuke about some matters concerning the situation with his battle with Gaara a few days before…but these two…

Asuma and Kurenai had arrived and were about to chat with Kakashi when they too noticed the new arrivals…the three Jonin wordlessly agreed when they saw each other to track these new arrivals.

One of them turned and then spoke to his taller partner.

“We're being followed…it seems we're going to have to deal with them.”

“Good…I'm spoiling for a fight.”

----------

Konoha's main gate…

“Where is that kid? He was supposed to be early today for the trip…I hope he didn't pick up Kakashi's habit of being fashionably late….”

“Hey Pervy Sage!!!”

Jiraiya sighed as he spotted Naruto with Holy Talon on his back in it's sheath and Naruto was wearing a modified version of his older clothes and had a large backpack with him as well, and from the bulges on the back pack in question…there was a lot in the bag as well.

“Took you long enough squirt…you ready to get going?”

“You bet I am! Let's hope this team-mate Tsunade of yours is easy to find.”

“She might not want to be found…but that's the beauty of it.”

“Exactly what does Tsunade look like anyway Pervy Sage? I don't have a clue as I've never met her before.”

“She's around my age at the moment…but she's gotten a way on how to avoid being seen as an old lady.”

“Oh?”

“You'll see soon enough…what else did you bring in that bag anyway?”

“Food, clothes…the usual…and I left behind the plate armor in my apartment…only brought the chainmail….it's tough and lighter…plus walking around in plate mail can be distracting…at least the chain mail is easy to hide under clothes…so let's get moving Pervy Sage! The sooner we find Tsunade, then I can learn that new jutsu you promised!”

“Yeah…let's get going!”

----------

To be continued…

----------

Author's notes:

Sorry for the long delay…my internet connection's kind of jumpy at the moment and it was rather annoying to have the internet denied to you for several days. Anyway…we're about wrapped up this chapter and filler at the same time and we get down to the more interesting stuff as a certain Uchiha renegade and a former Mist Swordsman ninja go after Naruto and Jiraiya after dealing with several Jonin, NOT in a lethal way mind you, and then we're going to see an interesting fight later in the next chapter…

As we have another battle high-light…Sharingan VS Holy Talon… and of course Kisame is going to be involved in this fight as his sword Samehada squares off with Holy Talon as well…a two against one special!!! And will the Kyuubi play a part here…well…you'll have to find out won't you?

How was the explanation on Holy Talon's powers with Dragon Fire and the Magical Branches involved in each? It's not the best as I have been busy with other matters, so forgive me if it's a bit off at the moment. But I do have the time to make some short synopsis of each branch.

The elemental magic branches speak for themselves…but the other branches do need some explanation.

Summoning is obviously for summoning powerful allies…from groups of spirit soldiers…to an entire spirit army…along with other Dragon allies…however the highest level spell in this category will be revealed soon enough.

Life is healing magic…Naruto's use of the green-silver flame is the first step of tis Magical branch, but there are spells in this category that are truly powerful but are also very taxing and must be used only in truly dire situation.

Body is a branch dedicated to improving the body in several ways…like and unlike Life magic as it does not heal in the truest sense…but unlocks the hidden power in the caster's body.

Mind is the same as Body…but deals with the mental attributes and talents of it's master.

Focus deals with realms of vision…both in the world of flesh and the world of magic…and even time and space…a good example of this branch is the Dragon Eye itself. Another example is the Piercing Vision spell Naruto had used before.

Transmutation/Enchanting is a branch that can create one thing from another, and or can imbue something or if needed…someone with a level of power that in time will be theirs to use…The Dragon Seal of Gaara is one such form of Transmutation/Enchanting, though more on the Enchanting aspect.

Nature magic delves into nature itself…the very essence of the living world and works with Life Magic…it can summon nature allies such as animals or spirits, commanding the branches of the natural world to aid and shield others…or to imbue certain gifts temporarily into others. Naruto has not used this yet.

Divine combines all the named branches and is considered the hardest of all to use and it is also the most taxing as combining several branches is considered difficult by most if not all standards.

Vane is yet another Dragon Champion who is now teaching Naruto some moves of his own making… and is a member of the War Blades…he was a skilled fighter of the War Blade Order and earned the name the Twisting Storm… Like all War Blades…he sacrifices his ability in defense for extra offensive power and as a talent for being able to parry and attack in a fluid and lethal fashion…a slight understatement among the War Blades

And in this fic has taught Naruto some dual wielding techniques to further improve Naruto's combat repertoire when the time comes to face multiple foes…and we will get to see how much Naruto has learned from his new Master and fellow Dragon Champion…

And don't worry the Rasengan will be here soon enough… but here is a taste of a dual wielding Naruto…

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Trailer:

Kisame moved aside as Naruto slashed with Holy Talon and left a massive tear in the wall behind the former Mist Swordsman…but as he came out with his own slash…both he and Itachi was surprised as Naruto produced…another sword out in the open and the sword cam e close to skewering Kisame in the stomach. Kisame managed to move away…but Naruto went on the offensive and lashed out with several attacks and managed to parry Samehada and land a powerful kick on Kisame's chin and then slashed with both swords…slicing into Kisame though missing him.

Kisame moved back and saw his cloak had a massive X slashed into it…right where his organs were…had that blow connected…it would have gutted him and spilled his organs all over the floor.

Kisame looked at Naruto spun both swords and then got into a peculiar stance with the two swords ready…one in each hand as Naruto glared at him and Itachi.

“If you two renegades think for a second I'll be easy prey…you're way out of your depth…BRING IT ON!!!!”

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Oh yeah…before I forget…I have plans of posting a new chapter on some of my other fics soon so I hope you have the time to check out the others.

And on the topic of who's the girl I will pair with Naruto…I'm staring to swing to the harem idea…but I'll make sure to do it well enough, okay…but don't think I'm going to let the guys in the story have no love interests as well…I want to be fair to the guys…and if you really want to know HOW I'm going to do that…

Then let's just say that…some individuals are going to pay the Naruto world a visit…and they will certainly catch the eyes of the men, if you know what I mean.

See you later!