Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Naruto Dragon Champion ❯ Medical Mission Part 1 ( Chapter 22 )

Naruto - The Twin Sword

Disclaimer: I don't own anything related to Naruto or any media involved with said series.

Chapter 21

Part 1

Medical Mission

( ): Thoughts

((“ ”)): Holy Talon's voice

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`Healing is an art…something that can never be tainted no matter the case…it is easy to wound and hurt…with fist, blade, or spell…'

`But to heal and mend…ah, that is the hardest of all…it is an art of life…not death…and that is the hardest skill to master to it's zenith….those of you who follow the path of healing are truly gifted…'

`Now…let me show you…the gift of healing…'

Speech of a Healer of the Silver Palm to students…

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In the Academy class-room, late afternoon…

“All right then…what is the current number of countries today and what is the status of Konoha in relation with those countries?”

Naruto stood up as he was the only person in the class-room at the moment as all the other students were already back home as it meant that only he and Iruka were the only ones present in the class-room. Iruka had been surprised when Naruto requested to be re taught everything that he had missed out on during his 12 years in the Academy and when he thought that this was another prank…Naruto said that he was serious and wanted to be learn everything all over again.

Iruka saw that Naruto meant it and had decided to talk with the newly instated Hokage and she agreed and asked Iruka to re-train Naruto in the basic ninja skills and then told Iruka about the encounter with the Wraith Knight and the undead minions it commanded in battle and how close Naruto was to getting killed. He was shocked and when it was indeed confirmed…he agreed and decided to get Naruto ready for the missions and training ahead.

As Naruto began to speak on the lessons and give his answers…Iruka thought about the situation and decided that it was all for the best, and it was also a blessing in his mind as he finally got the chance to really train Naruto for the task of being a ninja…though it was unhealthy to know that Naruto nearly lost his life before he got the truth into his head that he needed to take being a ninja seriously.

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Later that night…

Naruto sighed as he placed down his school bag as he opened the door to his apartment and was surprised when he was greeted by Kin, Hinata, Sakura, and Ino who apparently had been expecting him, along with the other members of the Rookie 9 teams…even Sasuke was there, though the still silent raven haired boy was showing that he was not planning to be here and he was still not fully cleared to be in active duty and was to be reporting back to the hospital later on.

“Wow…what are you guys doing here?”

Sakura replied.

“We wanted to see how the mission went…so how was it?”

Naruto was a bit confused by that and asked them a question.

“You want to know how the mission I was in went down?”

Kiba nodded and Akamaru barked as well.

“Of course we do Naruto…it's not every day a Genin gets chosen to be in such a high ranking mission with a Sanin of all things! When Hinata told Shino and me, we were surprised that you got picked for such a high level mission like that…especially since it involved you getting the village a new Hokage…so how did it go?”

“I must confess I am curious about the outcome of that mission…you seem to have been changed by that whole experience.”

Shino replied as he sat down and so did Kiba and Akamaru…while Ino was reminding Chouji not to eat all the food that was there as it was for everyone. Shikamaru was also there as well and he was looking bored as usual…but there was a glint in his eye as he wanted to know about the mission's outcome as well.

Naruto thought about it and then wondered about something else.

“By the way Sakura-chan…how is Kakashi-sensei?”

“Tsunade-sama's arrival was none too soon, she was able to treat Sasuke-kun and Kakashi-sensei…but Lee-san…”

“What?! What's wrong with Lee?”

“I'm not sure…but I heard that Tsunade-sama said to Gai-sensei that Lee can no longer live as ninja…”

“No…I'll go and talk to Tsunade and to both Gai and Lee…maybe I can help in some way…”

Sakura sighed and spoke to Naruto.

“I know…but I wasn't finished…Tsunade-sama said that there was a chance that a surgical procedure could save Lee-san…but it would be only 50 percent. There's a 50 percent chance that Lee will make it…but there's a 50 percent chance he will die in the surgery…”

Naruto sighed as he felt helpless at not being able to help Lee after all Lee had put himself through…but he decided that if he ever found a way to help Tsunade increase Lee's chances of being able to be back as a ninja, he would not hesitate to help his friend in his recovery.

“I'll still find a way Sakura-chan…”

He then turned to Sasuke and his raven haired team-mate remained silent and then spoke.

“Why in the heck did they give you such a mission dobe?'

Sasuke did this to try and get his team-mate to be a bit angry…and Naruto knew this quickly, but doesn't rise to the bait and merely spoke calmly.

“To be honest…I have no idea…the Pervy Sage only asked me to come with him instead of the Jonin he was supposed to get for the mission. He merely picked me…and I guess since the mission worked out…there's nothing wrong…how are you doing though Sasuke?”

The raven haired Uchiha was surprised by the turnabout and is at first speechless and then recovers and stoically replies in his usual fashion.

“I'm standing aren't I?”

Naruto smiled and replied.

“That's the Sasuke I know…I knew Tsunade would be able to help you…after all…if it hadn't been for her…that damned undead creature would have killed me.”

That got the attention of everyone and he knew that despite the fact he should have kept his trap shut about the events that happened and he decided to tell them what had happened in the mission that he was in with Jiraiya…and what happened afterwards. The Rookie 9 listened intently as Naruto explained what had happened on the way to where Tsunade was and how they had an encounter with Orochimaru…he had debated whether to tell them about his training with the Rasengan…but decided to keep that as his personal secret for now. He then told them of how he and the two Sannin had fought with Orochimaru and Kabuto…revealing that Kabuto was indeed a spy for Orochimaru.

Sasuke gave a triumphant smirk to Naruto and replied.

“Told you that guy was untrustworthy.”

“Yeah…you were right Sasuke…but we gave those two a royal beating.”

He then told them about the arrival of Holy Talon's creator Lord Faldren…they were surprised…Sasuke most of all at the description of Faldren's power in combat both in Dragon form and in human form. And how they had beaten and forced Orochimaru to retreat…however it was when he told them of his accidental use of the new spell Rebirth Flame to reverse the ages of both Tsunade and Jiraiya that really got the attention of the Rookie 9.

“Seriously?! You reversed Tsunade-sama's age to 20?!”

Sakura couldn't believe that when she heard it…she knew that Tsunade was already 50 due to her study on Konoha's history and on how many years Tsunade had spent both in Konoha and in her exile away from Konoha, but to actually learn that their Hokage was now THAT young because of Naruto made her shocked and amazed beyond words.

“T-T-That's amazing Naruto-kun!”

Hinata said as she was awed that Naruto actually had the power to restore the youth of a person to being young again. It was amazing that Naruto actually had that level of power now in his hands and his skills. He couldn't help but smile at how much her crush had grown in so short a time.

“So she's REALLY 20 years old now…damn…”

Kiba couldn't help but whistle as he had seen Tsunade and was shocked at how attractive the Hokage was…when he had learned that it was Henge and she was really 50 he felt a bit put down and sad…but to hear that the Henge was no longer on and she is now that hot looking…he couldn't help but smile.

“I see…no wonder my Destruction Bugs went crazy when they sensed her chakra…”

Shino replied as he recalled how active the Destruction bugs were when Tsunade had passed him by when she was going to the office of the Hokage. The bugs were surprised and somewhat disorganized for a moment before they calmed down enough for Shino to talk to them find out what had happened to them when Tsunade passed by.

“Wow…that's one really nifty trick Naruto-kun. You're lucky that bastard Orochimaru didn't find out about that spell's effects or he would have tried to kidnap you for sure.”

Kin said as she knew that if her former master had found out about the power of the spell to reverse the aging process and restore youth and vitality…there was no doubt in her mind Orochimaru would spare no expense in capturing her Naruto-kun.

“Cool…that's one really cool power you have now Naruto.”

Ino said as she couldn't help but smile in awe at the power Naruto had…she had never heard of any jutsu being able to literally give youth back to a person, and to know that Naruto could use it was certainly impressive.

“That would be pretty cool…”

Was all Chouji said as she munched on his favorite bag of chips.

“You used a spell to reverse a person's age?”

Shikamaru couldn't believe what he had heard…of all the jutsus he heard about…a jutsu that literally granted youth was unheard of…but his blonde Genin companion Naruto had pulled it off and had been able to reverse the age of an older person…. That in his mind was certainly an achievement.

Sasuke said nothing whatsoever…but he glared at Naruto nevertheless as he couldn't believe what the dobe had been able to do ever since getting that sword and using some hidden powers in himself…he recalled how he had seen Naruto fight both Kisame and his own brother…and that made him even more angry.

As soon as he was able to speak…Naruto spoke to all of them.

“Yeah…but for Kami' sake, promise me your guys won't let a word of this out! If this gets out in Konoha…or anywhere else…I'll be swamped with people asking me to reverse their ages for them…I'll never have a moment's peace.”

The others promised…well the ones who spoke did…while Sasuke merely grunted and Naruto had no choice but to take that answer as yes for the time being. He then told them about the battle he had with the Wraith Knight and what he described got quite the response and even Sasuke was surprised at how the Wraith Knight had nearly slain Naruto…had it not been for last minute move and the assistance of both Jiraiya, Shizune, and Tsunade, the day afterwards when they had to bless and burn the bodies of the recently slain and reanimated was enough enthrall the Rookie 9 and since he was not lying to them in any way…they could see that he was telling the truth…his victory over the Wraith Knight made them feel relieved…and he told them about meeting the Wraith Knight's master…though he didn't tell them about Death Fang…as soon as he was done…Shikamaru…instead of looking lazy was wide eyed and then whistled.

“You're pretty damn lucky to have lived through that Naruto…is that why you've re-enrolled in the Academy?”

“How did you know about that?”

“The books obviously…you usually were not the kind to be reading books back in the Academy days. Not to mention you're not in the usual hangouts like you used to go to…and even Teuchi and Ayame don't see you as often.”

Naruto nodded and spoke.

“You're right…now that I thought about what happened…I guess it woke me up and told me how much I've messed up ever since the day I graduated from the Academy…that's why I went back and asked Iruka-sensei to re-train me all over again when he has the free time…our new Hokage allowed it as well.”

“But why Naruto? You're a Genin already right? You don't need to go back in the Academy.”

Ino asked…she had never seen Naruto act like this before…and while it was a bit refreshing from his boisterous and loudmouthed nature, it was kind of troubling to see him like this, and it made her feel sad for him now.

Naruto nodded and sighed as he looked out the window.

“That might be true…but in that battle…something happened that woke me up to a very important truth…that I had wasted the 12 years I had in the Academy playing pranks, getting chewed out by Iruka-sensei, fouling up exams, and failing three times, and I never got to use all my own talents and get to be a real ninja. In that way…you guys are far better ninja than I am.”

That made the Rookie 9 take notice and so did Kin as this was the first time Naruto talked like this…he wasn't acting like the goofy, loudmouth, hyperactive, and thickheaded ninja they knew…but a battle hardened veteran who had learned very painful lessons over the years. Naruto then turned to them and looked at each of them seriously and began to speak about their advantages while pointing at them.

“You've got your family Shadow Manipulation Jutsu and your great intellect Shikamaru, you've got your father's Mind and Body Manipulation jutsus Ino, you've got Akamaru and your clan's abilities and Taijutsu Kiba, you've got your family's ability to enlarge their bodies and their body parts for powerful attacks Chouji, you've got the Byakugan and the Gentle Fist Style, Hinata-san, You've got the Destruction Bugs of your clan Shino, Sakura-chan has good chakra control and smarts, and Sasuke has the Sharingan and all the abilities of his clan…the way I see it…you guys have more potential to be greater ninja than me…I've bummed around for 12 years and the only time I realized how true it was, was when that damned undead warrior had me impaled on the shoulder by that sword of his…and what it's master said to me...”

Naruto reached for his shoulder and winced a bit…as while the pain and effects of the attack had faded and the wounds healed…the memory was still there.

“But you beat that thing right Naruto-kun?”

Kin asked as the rest of the Rookie 9 saw the pain of memory in Naruto's face as he seemed to recall the battle. None of them…not even Sasuke had seen Naruto like this. Naruto sighed and then turned and sat down on the couch.

“Yeah…I beat it…but barely…just barely, and that's why I returned to the Academy for the time being…to re-train myself to be a better ninja than I was when I went to the Land of Waves months ago…because the way I am now…I won't stand a chance if I meet the Master of the Wraith Knight again…the undead was but one of the others that…being could command. If I can't be a worthy ninja to be equal to my sword Holy Talon then I won't last long.”

The group was silent for a while until Naruto smiled and replied.

“But as long as I have friends and people I care about…I will be stronger no matter what…so let's stop being all gloomy here. There's good food here and lots to talk about…so let's hurry before we let all the food go bad…okay?”

The Rookie 9 looked at Naruto and sighed as they decided to eat and sat down on the chairs and have some time for themselves…they each had asked their parents permission to surprise Naruto for his success at brining the new Hokage Tsunade to Konoha, and while the parents were not all that sure yet…they didn't mind as long as they were careful. The food there was Japanese pizza, sashimi, pork and beef dumplings, beef hot pot, beef stew, tempura, and naturally Naruto's favorite…ramen from the Ichiraku Stand delivered by Teuchi earlier. The group ate the food and Naruto was happy that he had people around his home for once and he trusted them enough, and this was the first time he enjoyed having guests in his modest place. Though he decided to have to make sure that he should ask for some money to renovate the place for the time being.

Sasuke watched Naruto as he was eating and chatting with the others and merely looked on and ate what he had until he decided to leave…he said he would be fine and when he left…there was a pair of ANBU waiting for him and a medic nin as he was brought back to the hospital.

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The next day…

Naruto looked at the targets and calmed himself and quickly fired off several shuriken and the weapons were getting closer to the main bulls eye of the targets…he moved to the next set and then tried to attack the next target while on the move…there were several logs with targets painted on them as he ran and threw the shuriken and his accuracy was improving somewhat as he moved on to the next batch of targets only these were moving in the breeze as they were planks tied to rope and were spinning and swaying…making them harder to hit as they were moving targets.

Naruto tried to fire his shuriken but he missed some of the targets while the other shuriken didn't even come close to hitting the outer rims of the targets and he was not happy…

“Darn it…”

“Nice try Naruto-kun…try again…and make sure to time your throws next time when you use the shuriken.”

Iruka said as Naruto nodded and decided to do the course yet again. The Chuunin was busy working with Naruto for the day as he had no classes to teach and he decided to see how Naruto's shuriken training was going, he had to make sure that although Naruto's training was going to take time, he would squeeze in every conventional and unconventional lesson he could come up with to teach Naruto what he could.

Naruto did the shuriken exercises over the next few hours and then the tight rope tests…and while he fell in more than once…his training with Kakashi in tree-walking and Ebisu in the art of water walking was bearing fruit as he got better and better at the training…back then he fell almost every time he got on the ropes…but this time he wasn't falling off at all.

Iruka nodded and then smiled as another person arrived and he called Naruto forward as soon as the blonde ninja came back. Naruto was surprised to find none other than Ebisu himself there, as the elite Jonin looked Naruto over and spoke.

“I'm here to see if what I heard was true…are you really re-learning everything that you should have learned back in the Academy Naruto-kun?”

“Yep…that's all true Ebisu-sensei…so what brings you here?”

Ebisu smiled and replied.

“Of course I'll be catching up on what we missed before...you'll be learning how to walk on water…”

“But I already know how to do that.”

“True…but now you need to learn how to walk on water…when carrying objects or people…and fighting on water as well…have you learned that?”

Naruto was surprised and knew that he never learned that before as Ebisu took out what appeared to be a vest filled with weights and Ebisu then directed Naruto to a nearby river…which was not too deep and told Naruto to put on the vest…and thankfully the vest was easy to remove…As soon as Naruto wore it…the weight nearly made him sink into the water and it was where he had to learn how to move with weight on him on water and as he tried to move without sinking…he was given some tips by Ebisu and Iruka. The Chuunin then turned to speak to Ebisu.

“So how is Konohamaru doing?”

“He's been working hard and training hard…I have no doubt that while it will take him some time to master any worthwhile jutsu…I still have to teach him NOT to use that jutsu he learned from Naruto-kun…embarrassing as it is.”

Iruka sweat dropped as he already had an idea of what sort of Jutsu Ebisu was talking about and shook his head at Naruto as the blonde was slowly beginning to master how to move around the surface of the water with weights on him. This lasted for the better part of the day and well into lunch time and Naruto was dying to finally have a hot bowl of ramen…and for once…Naruto had enough money to pay for his own meals…much to the relief of both Iruka and Ebisu.

Teuchi and Ayame were happy to see Naruto and even more so now that he was paying for his meals instead of relying on Iruka or Ebisu…he chugged down bowl after bowl of ramen to make up for the powerful work-out he had been in recently and he needed some warm food in himself as the water in the river was rather cold. As soon as he downed his twelfth bowl of ramen Naruto sighed and out came a small cloud as he enjoyed the meal he had.

“Now that hit the spot!”

“Well…at least you're feeling better…however I recommend you go get a decent bath Naruto…namely at a hot-spring until your clothes dry up.”

Ebisu replied as he and Iruka ate their food.

“But shouldn't I get back into training?”

“No sense going back to training if you catch a cold right now Naruto…hit the hot springs…you need it to relax and warm up until we start again…don't forget you have a review of the last lessons you had before so don't take too long.”

“All right then…hot springs it is!”

Naruto paid for his meal and quickly made his way to the area where the hot-springs were and along the way he ran into Konohamaru, Moegi and Udon…the grandson of the Third smiled in greeting of his idol and was happy to see his old friend and rival. Konohamaru had not taken the news of Tsunade being the new Hokage lightly and protested greatly, but after witnessing Tsunade's medical skills, her strength, her commitment to the people, and mostly…well her looks, plus Naruto's assurances that Tsunade was very capable did he relent…and in truth had gotten along with Tsunade for some time now. The young Academy student and his friends greeted Naruto in their usual fashion…

“Hey Boss Naruto!!! How are you?”

“Hey there Konohamaru, Moegi, Udon, how are you doing?”

“We're okay Naruto-san…how have you been doing?”

Udon asked as he looked at Naruto…he had thought Sasuke was cool…but Naruto was also cool and he was certainly a strong ninja…no wonder Konohamaru idolized him greatly.

“I'm cool…but I've been training for quite a while now so I'm heading off to the hot-springs for a good warm bath…so how was school?”

“School's great boss and I'm training real hard…Ebisu-sensei isn't all that bad a teacher now that I think about it….I got to go Boss….I have to take care of some things and then go out with Moegi and Udon for another round of our own training…see ya!”

“See you too Konohamaru!”

Naruto chuckled at Konohamaru as he and his friends left…it reminded Naruto a good deal about how he was when he was younger to say the least and he couldn't help but think about it…he put that aside and arrived in the hot-springs…he reached one of the spring resorts and paid the elderly female keeper and asked to have his clothes dried…he then got out his boxers as he stripped and was now in his towel…it seemed that for the moment…he was very much alone in the whole resort at the moment and as he allowed himself to relax as he was about to enter the hot spring.

He was unaware of the fact that there were going to be a small number of observers of him.

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Sakura, Ino, and Hinata were busy taking some free time to train themselves as they had actually been inspired by Naruto to further improve their jutsus and skills when they had the free time…their fellow team members were elsewhere…Kiba was helping his family in their time off veterinarians and feeling Akamaru, Chouji was on a training session with his father Chouza , Shikamaru was busy with his game of Shogi with Asuma, and Shino was studying bugs with his father to ready for another mission.

The three girls were soon joined by Kin and Tenten and they were busy training at the moment so they could each take their time effectively while there wasn't much to do at the moment. As they were busy training they then decided to take a break and rest…Hinata had brought some food and drink and they all decided to relax and eat to their heart's content. It was then that Sakura decided to climb up one of the rises as the place they were training in had a vantage point of Konoha. The others followed her and when they did…they realized that they were close to the hot-springs area.

“Man…maybe we should all go to the hot-springs and get some time off. I could certainly use a hot bath.”

Ino said as they looked at the hot springs…thinking about how wonderful it would be to finally have a warm bath after all the training they had done. It was then that Hinata spied a strange looking boy in the male side of the nearby hot-spring resort…she blushed and was about to turn away when she spotted the familiar spiky blonde hair and gasped…before she could stop herself she used her Byakugan and sure enough…

“Naruto-kun!!!”

The other female ninja were surprised and since they didn't have Hinata's Byakugan…they couldn't see as far as she did…however it was then that Ino recalled having some old binoculars in her bag and rushed as fast as she could down and grabbed it and quickly distributed them to the other Kunoichi. As soon as they saw what Hinata was seeing…they were in awe…

They finally got to see Naruto in the buff before he entered the hot spring…they were all drooling at the muscles they saw on him…from his shoulders, arms, back, and his….ass was so…well shaped and his lower form was so well formed…they gasped as he went into the hot spring and soaked in the heat…they were sad that the steam had hidden Naruto from their view for the time being…but at the moment…

(Wow! Naruto-kun's got a hot ass!!! Damn!!!!)

Ino thought as she looked on as a trickle of blood was flowing out his nose. She had thought Naruto was a hunk before…but she saw him as a god and damn! She wanted to run her hands on Naruto right now!!!

(N-N-N-N-Naruto-kun…so hot…he's so….hot!!!)

Hinata thought as she looked on and blushed bright red as her own nose was in nose bleed mode….she knew her crush Naruto-kun had become very handsome…but now…she was having VERY indecent thoughts

(Damn….I have GOT to get my hands on him!!!!)

Kin said as she was having a nose bleed and she felt even hotter as she recalled what she saw of Naruto…and to think she was staying in the same apartment as him and he looked like THAT underneath all those clothes he wore.

(Wow…Naruto-kun, you've really changed…you're so…yummy!)

Sakura thought as she tried her best not to faint from blood loss as she looked on,…disappointed that the mist was hiding Naruto. Despite the fact that it was scandalous…she couldn't help but imagine…

(Holy Kami! He's smoking!!!!)

Tenten gulped as she felt her heart beat faster as she saw Naruto in the buff and she was not happy that he was now covered in the mist and she couldn't see him again…she had never seen Neji in the buff before but now her mind was filled images of Naruto in the buff.

The girls were suddenly treated to an even more interesting show as Naruto finally got out after taking a good soak and swim. Only this time it was in the side of him that they didn't see…and that was full frontal and the Kunoichi got t6o see the rest of him as Naruto was loosening his hair from the water…Naruto smiled and they saw his relaxed expression as he then shook his head a bit…allowing his blonde hair and the silver highlights to move about his face…making him look even more handsome than before as his eyes were open.

They then saw his full body and they were shocked and awed to finally see his front and what a view…they saw how well built Naruto was as they saw his pectorals, the six pack abs which were somehow fitting for him despite being actually 12 and fitting his height as well…he was so well built as he got out of the water and since he was out of the steam, eh saw him clearly…and that was when they saw…Naruto's…package…thought he covered himself with a towel so they could not see it completely…but it was enough…

The five female Konoha Kunoichi were thunderstruck as they saw…Naruto in ALL his glory and they all fainted dead away as the image of Naruto TOTALLY naked was enough to stun them.

THUD!!!!

Naruto had a feeling that told him that he was not alone and scanned the area…but after being assured by his ninja senses that he was not in danger, he decided to turn and leave…feeling VERY refreshed and back in the game to continue his training…

However…unknown to BOTH Naruto and the five Kunoichi…they were NOT the only ones who had managed to get an eyeful of the blonde ninja in the nude…

“Hot damn…now that boy is REALLY going to be tasty…not only does he have the looks, and his blood tastes good…but what a body and what a package!!! I'm going to have fun with him!!!!”

Anko said as she had a feral smile as she was looking at the blonde earlier in her own pair of binoculars…she routinely did this in order to have some fun on her free time when not on missions and such. The Jonin had fully recovered from the battle and was enjoying her free time and decided to see just who was in the male side of the hot-springs…and lo and behold…it was Naruto…and she was more than happy with what she had seen of the blonde kid…and she then turned and spoke to her companion.

“What do you think about the latest find…Kurenai?”

Kurenai turned and gave Anko a look that told the Special Jonin to never mention what they saw this day. The Jonin sensei of Hinata, Kiba, and Shino had been busy with her usual work as a new Jonin when Anko had grabbed her and brought her with her on this new trip…and while she didn't mind being with her friend, she was not liking the ideas Anko had…but this time…Kurenai was stunned as well as she recalled what she saw on Naruto…the boy resembled a young teenager at the age of sixteen or seventeen…not a young boy like twelve…and while she was attracted by what she saw…she was not sure it was a good idea…however…there was no stopping the blush on her face…

Anko laughed and replied.

“I've got to say…for a young kid…that Naruto is a hot one…what do you think Kurenai, should we kidnap him and?”

“Anko! Don't try it…you know the new Hokage would never allow it…”

“Yeah…she does have a soft spot for that kid…maybe when he's older then. But seriously…he's hot huh?”

“He is attractive….”

“So go for him Kurenai, he's younger and more energetic! Let's not forget…he's got a hot body, a GREAT ASS, and one HELL of package for his age! We can share him if you like! Or maybe have that cute Hyuuga girl Hinata join in…”

“Anko! That's quite enough!”

However Anko merely smirked as the light blush on Kurenai's face was now crimson, noire so than her own eyes, at the thought of her getting intimate with Naruto of all people. She too had very interesting thoughts concerning the blonde ninja and licked her lips at the images of how much fun she was going to have with Naruto once she got her hands on him.

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The next day…early morning…

Kakashi was back in the village after a grueling mission and decided to pay Naruto a visit as he had heard that the boy was training…but as he did so…he spotted the blonde ninja moving towards the field and with some curiosity decided to follow the blonde. As soon as he arrived…he was somewhat surprised to see Naruto walking on water and wearing a vest that appeared to be filled with weights…the blonde was sweating as he walked back and forth on the water on the river. The determined look on Naruto's face was interesting to see for the white haired Jonin.

(Well now…it seems Naruto's working out pretty hard…I wonder if Gai had anything to do with the weights he's got on him?)

He approached and greeted Naruto as the tired blonde took off the vest after taking a break.

“Hey Naruto…”

“Kakashi-sensei! It's great to see you!”

Naruto ran up to his Jonin sensei and smiled…happy to see Kakashi up and on his feet.

“You're up and I'm happy, Tsunade really helped you out huh?”

Kakashi nodded at his energetic student and had to thank him for having brought Tsunade to help him recover from the Sharingan jutsu Itachi had used on him.

“That's true…and I know I have you to thank for getting her to come to Konoha and be our Hokage…you've really come a long way since I last saw you…so how are things when I last saw you?”

Naruto filled Kakashi in on everything since the mission to find Tsunade and even the encounter with Orochimaru…along with Itachi and Kisame…Kakashi was impressed that Naruto was able to hold his own against both Kisame and Itachi and even both Orochimaru and Kabuto…but he was worried when he heard about the battle between Naruto and the Wraith Knight…and he couldn't help but feel even more worried when Naruto told him about how close to death he had come when he was stabbed by the undead warrior, and it was with Tsunade and Shizune's help that he was saved, along with the Kyuubi, and he was shocked to hear what kind of power Death Fang had when it's minion could re-animate the dead and corrupt the land…he was also surprised about Naruto's promise when he learned Akatsuki to never give them the Kyuubi now matter the cost.

As soon as Naruto was done explaining the whole thing…Kakashi sighed and decided to speak.

“You've got a lot to prepare for then Naruto, so let me see how well you've advanced.”

Naruto nodded and when he was fully rested…he sparred with Kakashi , and both Jonin and Genin were hard at work as Kakashi tested Naruto and saw that while Naruto still had a long way to go…he was well on his way and was improving…he was happy that Naruto was more serious and dedicated to his training as a ninja…but even he wished that it wasn't due to nearly losing his life…he had been impressed by Naruto's growing abilities…and to know that Naruto was truly determined to be a worthy ninja made him smile.

The two spent the early morning sparring and Kakashi giving him some training tips and it was also then that Naruto revealed his knowledge of the Rasengan to his Jonin sensei. Kakashi was surprised and had to admit that his Genin student had grown up…having mastered such a high ranking jutsu…however he knew that it was still not a complete one…but until Naruto was older…decided to help him by teaching a few extra lessons in chakra control. Iruka and Ebisu arrived and the two Jonin and the Chuunin tested Naruto for the rest of the day…Kakashi served as Naruto's opponent in the lesson on how to fight on water and Kakashi proved to be quite the challenge for Naruto as the Jonin went all out to test Naruto…and instead of complaining…like he did in the past….Naruto got up and got ready to fight again with Kakashi.

The Jonin was in approval of Naruto as he got up and continued to fight and the two were going all out. He knew that him going all out at Naruto would seem unfair as he was a high ranking Jonin…but he had to as Naruto had to be stronger as well…Sasuke was his priority as Jiraiya had told him…but he had to give Naruto as much training as he could because after all…if Naruto said that Death Fang would send out it's minions in the coming times…and Naruto was the one who had to face them…he had to give Naruto the edge he needed.

Naruto was happy as he was now being trained seriously by Kakashi and he was going to give all he got as he and the Jonin traded punches…kicks, and kunai as they moved from the water to land and back again.

After their sparring Ebisu increased the weight on Naruto's vest and made him do the water walking training once again while Iruka used several logs as obstacles and targets for Naruto to fight with as the three shinobi watched their student's progress…

After lunch and a quick break…Naruto was at it again…only this time he was training not just with Kakashi-sensei, Iruka-sensei, and Ebisu…but also with several of his own spirit summons…namely a Falcon Ranger, a Steel Lancer, and a Sword Adept Dragon Champion, the three spirit summons began to teach Naruto about their respective arts as well. Kakashi nodded as he knew that Naruto…while growing in talent had to train hard in the other combat arts to be a better fighter…if he would stand a chance against Holy Talon's rival and counterpart Death Fang. He and the others watched at Naruto began to study under his other teachers and the day wore on.

Unknown to them…Sasuke had snuck out of the hospital earlier and had watched the while training session and was feeling even more envious as he watched his team-mate gain the training of Kakashi and even Iruka and Ebisu…he got tired of watching and snuck back to the hospital and thought about what he had seen.

----------

The next few days were a whirlwind of activity for Naruto as he was being trained in the Academy and outside of it by various masters which was why he wasn't around all that much at the moment with the others…Sakura missed having Naruto around to make the day interesting…but she didn't mind and when she did meet him…she wished him the best of luck. However it didn't take long for Naruto and Iruka to come to her and offer her a duty…

Sakura was surprised when Iruka asked her to be Naruto's tutor whenever he was not available to teach Naruto and Naruto agreed to the idea as he trusted Sakura a great deal.

She agreed and spent time teaching Naruto the lessons in the Academy that Iruka handed to her. She would smile at the time she spent with him and Naruto was eager to learn as much as he could…it made her wonder what it would have been like if he was this dedicated and studious back in the Academy instead of being a truant…he would have been Rookie of the Year instead of Sasuke.

And she blushed at times as she recalled seeing in the nude back in the hot-springs and it was a challenge for her to try and be focused on teaching her team-mate the lessons that she was supposed to teach him for Iruka. And in the times Naruto would smile she couldn't help but blush a bit to herself when she managed to cover his advances with a book in his face and remind him of his training. But she did treat him well and she would have a ramen dinner with him at times…though in this case…it was in the company of Kin…who was not in the mood to leave Sakura alone with Naruto. The two would covertly glare at each other and send warning signals to each other…Sakura warning Kin NOT to take advantage of Naruto when he was asleep or alone with her or else…while Kin told Sakura to mind her own damn business and stay away from her Naruto-kun.

Sakura wasn't the only one however as Naruto decided to pay a visit to Hiashi previously. The head of the Hyuuga family and Senior Council Member had become one of Naruto's key supporters in the Council…after all, he knew that it was Naruto who had inspired his eldest daughter to be better and stand up for herself…and helped him bridge the gap between him and his nephew Neji. Hiashi had been told by Naruto about the incident and Hiashi decided to offer his support to Naruto's training.

Flashback…

“I see…so that is why you came to my house asking for advice Naruto-san?”

Naruto nodded to Hiashi as the two spoke in the courtyard…Hinata and Neji were also there as well as Hanabi, Hinata's younger sister. The three younger Hyuuga were surprised to see Naruto when he walked into the Hyuuga family estate one day…asking to speak to Hiashi. At first the servants, some of the Head Family, and some of the Branch family refused, but both Neji and Hinata vouched for him and here he was…discussing the events of what had happened in the mission to find Tsunade…

Hiashi had heard it from his daughter Hinata and had to admit that if such an evil power exists in their world and Naruto was the one to face it first hand meant that he would be the only one to defeat it…he had seen Naruto's abilities and was impressed by them and he was stunned that this undead creature Naruto described had been able to best and nearly kill Naruto and it was only with the aid of Shizune and the new Hokage Tsunade and his…resident that he survived to end the deadly threat of the Wraith Knight.

Naruto came there and asked him if there was any way for him to ask help from Hiashi and the Hyuuga clan. Hiashi thought about it and replied.

“Naruto-san, I owe you a debt that I am willing to pay in any way I can…and if helping you in the way of the Konoha shinobi to better face this evil is the way to do it…then I do so gladly.”

“Thank you Hiashi-san…but…I'm not of your clan and I don't have the Byakugan…”

“That is true…but your abilities and skills are worthy indeed, and while you cannot master the Gentle Fist the way Neji and Hinata can…you can learn the methods of our fighting style to better improve your own combat skills…Neji, Hinata please come forward.”

The two came close to Hiashi and Hinata tried not to faint at being so close to her crush. Neji was still calm as always but his relationship with the Head family had softened and he was now losing his anger and he has Naruto to thank for that fact.

Hiashi then asked both his daughter and nephew to train Naruto in some of the key tenements that made the foundation of the Hyuuga's Gentle Fist Style. Both agreed and that was the beginning of another factor in Naruto's training.

End of Flashback…

This meant that when Neji was free, he would teach Naruto some of the tenements of the Gentle Fist and so did Hinata…and the two Hyuuga clan members were marveling at Naruto skills as he slowly but surely began to grasp the methods and style of the gentle Fist…it was hard as Naruto did not possess the Byakugan as they did…but he was able to improvise and adapt…a very admirable thing…

Hinata was ecstatic at being close to her crush and she was having a VERY hard time but toughened herself up and taught Naruto as best she could along with Neji. She was happy now that she was able to be this close to Naruto and to know that she was helping him be stronger made her happy. She also made the food for them all and Naruto would make her even more happy as he called her a wonderful cook.

And true to her word, Naruto would come to the Hokage Tower and when Tsunade was able to find some free time…she began to teach Naruto about chakra control and how to better use his chakra despite the presence of the Kyuubi's chakra in his own. The blonde would test Naruto on what he had learned with Iruka and further train him and how to focus chakra to a point in his body and how to safely release his chakra…the training was tough…and Naruto struggled greatly as chakra control was never one of his strong points. But he kept on pushing and working hard…much to Tsunade's approval.

Tsunade also loved the free time she had with Naruto…the blonde would smile when she gave him support and blush whenever she teased him and she loved the idea of teasing him a lot. She was tough on him to help him train hard and he didn't complain too much as he knew that her training could truly help him in the soon to come conflicts. But once in a while…she would tease him and that made him blush furiously as he knew that she was now a beautiful blonde woman at the age of twenty…only eight years older than him.

She then took it further and showed Naruto a sample of her duties as Hokage to give him a feel of what it meant to be Hokage of Konoha..instead of getting too frustrated with all the paper work…Naruto attacked it with interest and used his training with Iruka and the tutoring he got from Sakura to even help her with some problems and with Holy Talon providing him with extra lessons in politics, economics, strategy, and diplomacy…he proved to be getting there…making Tsunade more sure that Naruto was destined to be not only a worthy Hokage of Konoha…but a great Dragon Champion worthy of the legacy of Holy Talon and those who wielded the sword. And she hoped someday…well, that was for another time…when Naruto was older.

Shizune then took over as she would also train Naruto in the same lessons as Tsunade on the topic of chakra control and she was happy to be able to help Naruto-kun in the struggle of learning how to fully master the part of chakra control in battle. She did admit that she was not as gifted as Tsunade or as knowledgeable as her mentor…but she truly had her own talents and Naruto considered her talented as a medic-nin and it did her heart good to be praised by Naruto…she also taught him what she knew about the arts of medicine and other arts that she felt he needed to learn.

She normally had duties as Tsunade's secretary and also as a emergency medic-nin and Jonin but she was willing to keep her promise and help Naruto in his training…and she began to be sweeter towards him as she found him to be a real sweet and kind hearted guy…she liked him and wished that she had met him when she was younger. She wondered if she was starting to like Naruto in a far more romantic sense like Tsunade…she was at first worried about her acting like a happy school girl with a crush on a young man…but she didn't mind as she began to teach Naruto and flirted lightly with him on a few instances…just to see his reaction and it was nice to see him blush a lot.

It was not just Tsunade and Shizune as well as Naruto was training even harder with his teachers from Dagern as well as Jiraiya, the previous Dragon Champions and Holy Talon and as the days passed…Naruto's overall skills as a ninja was steadily growing and even Tsunade had to admit that at the rate of his training which while slow was improving and growing harder and tougher, Naruto could very well become more than a Jonin or even an ANBU…but a Sannin like her, Orochimaru, and Jiraiya as Naruto's overall skills and abilities were proving to be greatly stronger than most of the Genin and Chuunin in Konoha…even Kakashi admitted that his student was reaching a Jonin level…though slowly at the moment as he had to be careful not to over stress himself.

Naruto also visited Lee and he vowed that someday he would find a way to help him and Lee had a feeling Naruto would truly keep his word and Gai thanked Naruto as both he and Naruto helped Lee keep his spirits up. The weeks passed as Naruto pushed himself further to master his way of the ninja, along with the talents of a Dragon Champion and become stronger for the soon to come encounter…and he hoped that he would have a chance to use his talents…

Little did he realize that on the day he was called to the Hokage's office…he was going to get his chance to show the ninja world just how far he had evolved as a ninja at this point and time.

----------

In the Hokage office…

Naruto was surprised as he, and Sakura were told the details of the oncoming mission that Tsunade was giving them at the moment…it was a simple escort mission but the cargo convoy was VERY important.

“A medical supply convoy?”

Tsunade nodded.

“That's correct…the supply convoy will be arriving in the Land of Waves in a few days and then will heading out from the Land of Waves and ending it's trip to the capital of the Feudal Lord here in the Land of Fire…and I am aware of the fact that the Land of Waves is familiar to your team, Naruto. According to this…the convoy is carrying rare herbs, chemicals, first aid tools, and medicines. That makes the cargo very valuable in the right hands…the merchants asked us to send some escorts as the supplies from the caravan could help with various medical needs both in the outlying towns and to Konoha itself…but because the rumors of bandits terrorizing the roads…they need better security along with their already present guards.”

“Anything else Tsunade-sama?”

Sakura asked as she was eager to finally be working with her team yet again.

“Yes…the cargo can help in high grade surgeries as well…and they might very well help in healing critical cases…like Gai's student Rock Lee…the medicine there will double ensure that the surgery that he can be cured with will have a much higher rate of success and will also help in the rehabilitation.”

Naruto was pleased and it showed…however there was something that concerned him as well…

“What's the reason for the ninja guards Tsunade, don't they have enough?”

Tsunade didn't mind the fact that while Naruto didn't call her the Hokage, she knew that he respected her in his own way…which was why she didn't mind being called by her name by him at all as she liked it.

“Normally yes….but the fact that they have high rate medical supplies and more means that the cargo will be targeted by bandits…if the supplies are stolen, then they can be used to make chemical weapons or worse…or can be used for earning money by bandit groups…if they take all the needed medicine…then they could extort the people who need those supplies…which is why added security is needed. There is a chance that other groups will be after it…namely Orochimaru's Sound ninja.”

“Why's that?”

“Until he can use that jutsu of his to transfer into another body…he will need medicine to relieve the pain from the damage done to him by the Third's use of the Shiki Fuujin jutsu, he will need all the medicine he needs to fight off the pain of his dead arms…that is why there is a chance that Kabuto would no doubt lead raiding parties of Sound ninja to secure more supplies until the time is right. In that regard…we need to make sure that if there is a chance for this to happen, we can deny Orochimaru any relief.”

Naruto smiled at the thought of denying Orochimaru any relief from the pain he so richly deserves in his mind, and nodded…but he then realized that there was someone who was not present in the mission planning. And it was none other than Kakashi himself. He had a good deal of re4spect for his Jonin sensei and the thought of going without him was not a healthy idea…as he thought back on the Land of Waves mission.

“But what about our Jonin sensei Kakashi-sensei? Isn't he going to lead us Tsunade?”

“I'm afraid not Naruto…Kakashi is currently on a mission of his own…as you know Kakashi is a highly skilled Jonin and a former ANBU Captain himself. He is one of the few Jonin we have left at active combat duty who can be spared… and while he hasn't fully recovered from the events of the battle with Akatsuki, he is still able to do his duties at the moment…for that reason you will be forming up under a temporary Jonin-sensei for this mission and the Genin team under the said sensei.”

There was a knock on the door and when Tsunade made the call for the new arrivals to come in, Shizune walked in first and in walked none other than Yuhi Kurenai and her Genin squad of Kiba, Akamaru, Shino, and Hinata. Naruto was somewhat surprised that he and his group would be working with another Genin team…not that he had any problem working with others at the moment…however this was the first time he had heard of a seven ninja team…a rather high number at the moment.

“My team and I are here as you requested Hokage-sama.”

“Very good Kurenai…considering the value of the cargo of the convoy you and your team are escorting, I have asked Kakashi's team to temporarily work with your own until the convoy completes it's deliveries to the various towns and here to Konoha as well before it arrives at the Feudal Lord's city.”

Naruto however was not very comfortable with the idea as he knew that there was solid reason why ninja teams were only limited to three member cells and a single Jonin sensei…adding more would imbalance the team and make the risk of casualties higher…he didn't plan on endangering other teams and decided to speak.

“No offense or anything Tsunade…but isn't this kind of unorthodox? Normally a ninja team has three Genin and one Jonin…having extra ninja can be a problem, and could incite unneeded casualties.”

Tsunade didn't get mad but knew that Iruka's lessons were rubbing off on his former student.

“Normally yes…but as it stands…we are fearfully short of experienced ninja and it will be a while before Konoha rebuilds…so we need all available ninja we have…besides…I think this will be a good test for you to use the skills you've learned so far.”

Naruto thought about it and had to agree with the logic there…no sense learning so much if he didn't put the training to the field to see how he would be able to handle things using what he had learned. He nodded and stepped back…Tsunade then gave another report.

“Sasuke is still not fully recovered from his ordeal with Itachi and while he is physically recovering, his mental state is still questionable…and he is to be under observation and secure treatment…therefore you will have a temporary squad member…who's arriving now.”

The group turned and to Naruto's surprise…it was none other than Kin herself who had retained her normal clothes but now had a Konoha forehead protector on her head which replaced her former Sound forehead protector. The Kunoichi smiled and greeting and bowed to Tsunade.

“Thanks for letting me join this mission Tsunade-sama. I won't disappoint you.”

“I know that…Naruto, I am aware of the fact that it was through your actions that Kin was saved from committing suicide and she had been given full citizenship by the Third before he passed away in the battle, and she helped in the battle as well when you pursued Gaara of the Sand…until she is given to an official Genin squad and until Sasuke is given the all clear by me and the medical-nin, she is to be part of Team Kakashi for the duration of this mission. As she is familiar with the methods of the Sound ninja and also has proven her loyalty to Konoha, she is the best choice should there be any sign of Sound ninja activity that could pose a threat to the convoy. That is all…take whatever you need to be ready for this mission.”

The ninja nodded and left the room and Tsunade went back to her work…she then looked at all the text books on medical practices and surgical procedure…she had made a promise to Naruto to find a way to help Lee recover and with the books she had been able to increase the chances by 58 percent and this new mission seemed to increase those chances even more.

----------

Later…

Naruto checked his gear and double checked his supplies in his newly acquired back pack, this back-pack was a magical gift that Leena had handed to when she tended to his injuries during his time training. The bag could store large amounts of material and objects which otherwise would have weighed down if they had been brought in other containers. Naruto had packed in a good amount of supplies, including food, spare clothes, exploding tags, shuriken, kunai, smoke bombs, disguise mats, his newly restored Orchaelium chain-mail suit, and amazingly enough…herbal medicine, bandages and other needed medical aides given to him by Leena…

Naruto realized that while he would have Holy Talon with him for the mission…he couldn't use too much of Holy Talon's powers….and if he had to, he would have to use only a small amount of the powers of the sword to ensure that there would be enough power for the sword to use and also allow the sword to recover it's full power…hence the need for the extra tools and to keep Holy Talon's healing powers well in reserve…he had asked for medical supplies from the elf healer and she was more than willing to give Naruto the supplies. He thanked her and as soon as she was able to teach him how to use the medicines, she returned from where she came.

Naruto also had a specially crafted Reflex Bow made for him by another elf named Faernor, who was a Falcon Ranger. He was the same Falcon Ranger who Naruto summoned to train him in the way of the Falcon Rangers. The elf warrior taught Naruto several techniques in woodcraft and survival, and also taught him tracking and archery, in fact it was he who crafted Naruto's new Reflex Bow and presented the weapon to Naruto along with a special quiver filled with arrows…the quiver was magical and it allowed Naruto to store twice as many arrows than a normal quiver would. He then placed the quiver on his back as well as the Reflex Bow and it was in easy reach, and he moved Holy Talon to his waist. As long as he didn't use too much Dragon magic…he would be fine with Holy Talon being used as a normal sword…

Naruto had learned how to fight with Holy Talon as a normal sword under the training of another Dragon Champion named Randarl, a former Sword Adept and a highly skilled one as well, the former Dragon Champion taught Naruto how to fight with a sword in one hand and also showed him how to counter attacks with only the sword in his hand while using his hand as a shield in substitution for the lack of one. Naruto was not comfortable with using a shield which might make him imbalanced…but he was assured that his Orchaelium splint mail armor would more than make up for the lack of a shield.

Naruto then took out his collapsible battle wing blade short spears, both of which had a straight blade in the beginning and two curved double edged blades on the sides near the main blade…he pressed the magical trigger and the blades retracted and the spears shrank into a small stick form. The pair of short spears was something made for him by Rumkil when he summoned the dwarf smith to make him a pole arm to train alongside his Steel Lancer mentor Talken. The Steel Lancer taught Naruto the use of the short spears in both hands well and showed Naruto how to combine both spears at the back ends to create a powerful single spear with blades on either ends for a deadly staff fighting style used by Steel Lancers. He then placed both spears in a holster on his other leg for easy reach…making it seem like he was using another kunai pouch

He double checked his gear and then placed on his new Orchaelium armor which was known as splint mail and then placed on a black cotton short sleeved shirt, his usual orange and blue jacket which in truth had been retailored by a friendly tailor in Konoha to fit his new height and size, boxers, his pants, and naturally his forehead protector. Once he was fully dressed he left his apartment and locked the door…he had given Kin a spare set of keys to the apartment as she was his apartment mate after all.

As soon as he was done…he slung on the pack and smiled at the weight as it was very comfortable indeed. And headed for the gate…and as soon as he arrived…he spotted Kurenai's team along with Sakura and Kin.

“H-H-Hi N-N-Naruto-kun!”

Hinata said as she greeted Naruto and Naruto likewise greeted her…earning some glares from Sakura and Kin and covertly…Kurenai. The Jonin was still trying to figure out how to act towards the blonde ninja, as she knew of Hinata's deep feelings for Naruto and she cared for Hinata as a surrogate daughter/little sister, but she was attracted to him in the sense that he had certainly grown and his looks no doubt would grow even more with age, and the fact that she had seen him buck naked certainly made it harder to resist the urge to grab him…however she placed her thoughts aside as she checked the time and spoke to her assembled team.

“All right…we're all here…so let's get a move on.”

The group moved out and Naruto was moving along and was very eager to visit Wave Country and see how it was doing since he had last been there. It was also when Kiba and Shino came forward.

“You seem interested in going to Wave Country Naruto…what's up?”

“I have some close friends there Kiba…and it's where I got a bridge named after me there…and that is the very same place where I got Holy Talon.”

“Really?”

Naruto nodded…the group moved on and when the group took a break for the day in the forest…Naruto and Sakura filled them in on how the mission in the Land of Waves went down and how he had acquired Holy Talon…since Naruto respected and trusted his companions…including Kurenai, he told them on how he and Holy Talon bonded when he was bleeding from the injuries that Zabuza had inflicted on him.

----------

A few days later…

The combined team arrived and saw the Great Naruto bridge and the group apart from Sakura whistled as they saw the bridge named after Naruto. Kurenai had to admit that having a bridge named after themselves was very honorable for anyone to have. She spoke then to Naruto to show her appreciation and admiration.

“You made quite the impact here Naruto-kun…to have abridge named after you.”

Naruto smiled at Kurenai and replied.

“Yeah…it's great the old man gave my name to the bridge…and I hope it worked out.”

The Jonin smiled back as they crossed the bridge and when they made it into Wave Country…the prosperity that Tazuna hoped for truly was there as Wave Country was prosperous indeed…there were new buildings and the people were all smiling and working hard together. There was even a well equipped and well trained security force of soldiers in the city and they were all doing a fine job. The people there spotted the incoming group and some of them quickly recognized Naruto and greeted him.

“Hey! It's Naruto Uzumaki!!!”

“The ninja who defeated and killed Gato! Naruto-san…come by and buy something from my store!”

“Come on and pay my humble shop a visit hero!”

“That's the brave Naruto-kun!”

“Hey Naruto-san! Tell us how you and your team helped save our town again!”

“Naruto-kun! We want you to teach us how to fight like you!”

“Hey Naruto-kun…come by and we can show you a good time!”

Some of the younger women and older women in the area also smiled and greeted Naruto in a very saucy way… making Kiba and Shino look at Naruto with smirks and slight envy…while Hinata, Kurenai, Sakura, and Kin were not too happy to see the women making their moves on Naruto…the group arrived and to their surprise…there was a mural depicting the battle with Gato and his men on one side…and the villagers and Team Kakashi on the other…and in the front was Naruto holding Holy Talon and his first summoned army coming in for the battle. And there was also a statue how Naruto defeated and killed Gato in single combat where the words were written in gold letters…

`Naruto Uzumaki of Konoha…Ninja hero of Wave Country…Our champion who freed us and gave us a future.'

Sakura smiled and spoke.

“Looks like you've become a national icon here in Wave Country Naruto-kun.”

Naruto was in awe and was even happier as he and the others made their way to see Inari, Tazuna, and Tsunami.

----------

Tsunami's house…

“Hello Naruto-kun, Sakura-kun…I am happy to see you both here again.”

Tsunami said as she was greeting Naruto and the rest of the team but she quickly noted the changes Naruto had undergone since she had last seen him. She smiled nevertheless as she knew that Naruto was still Naruto despite his new looks. She considered him a great family friend…after all…it was he who rekindled the fiery spirit in her son and helped free their Contry.

“Hello Tsunami-san! I'm really happy to see you again! Where's Inari?”

Tsunami smiled and pointed to the dock and saw Inari happily fishing with his fishing rod and Naruto smiled and called out to his friend. Inari turned and was happy to finally see Naruto again and the two had fun chatting while Sakura and the others smiled. Sakura introduced Hinata, Kiba and Akamaru, Shino, Kurenai, and Kin to Tsunami and soon Inari and Naruto came back…the young boy happy to see his close friend again and so was Naruto…it was also when Tazuna came to the sight. The elderly bridge builder laughed and greeted Naruto and his group with a smile.

“Naruto-kun! It's great to see you again!”

“It's good to see you again Old Man Tazuna!”

The elderly bridge builder didn't mind and smiled at the blonde ninja as he welcomed them into his humble home. The place was still the same as Naruto remembered it back when he stayed with Inari and his mother. Inari had grown and was very brave indeed as he was busy helping out as best he could. Tazuna was happy indeed that Wave Country had become a prosperous port center and in honor of the battle…he made the mural and statue for Naruto's honor…he was also the one that knew that the people Naruto and his group came to escort were there…though they were only a half day away from the port in Wave Country…so like before…Inari and Tsunami allowed Naruto to stay in their humble home for the time being.

Kurenai thanked the family and allowed the team under command to relax and take some time to relax before the next stage of their mission.

Naruto wondered what would happen once they meet the people of the convoy they were going to escort for the duration of the mission. He knew that sooner or later…he would have to place his skills and lessons to practical field use as soon as the groups after the valuable supplies in the convoy appear. He relaxed and decided to go out and explore the rest of the new Wave Country that he helped in protecting so many months ago…

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To be continued…

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Author's notes:

Well…I'm back and forgive me if the chapter is kind of short than the other works…but it is still early and I am still suffering from the sickness of cough and asthma yet again…but hey, don't worry about me…I beat this before, and I can beat it again. Now on with the story…

As you can see…Naruto is undergoing the first few days of his re-training and Sasuke is still bed ridden at the moment, so this gives Naruto plenty of time to get his act together as a ninja and also to train as a Dragon Champion and is taking lessons from a few of the warriors he has summoned…in this case… the Steel Lancers, The Sword Adepts, and the Falcon Rangers, and his trainer spirit among the Falcon Rangers has even created a Reflex Bow for him, along with a magical quiver to store more arrows…and naturally that means that Naruto has taken Ranger Training as well as ninja training, and Ranger training involves the use of bows, swords, daggers, and the use of Nature Magic. And to even that up…he has been trained by his Steel Lancer mentor in the use short spears and his spears can be connected into a staff form…

How will the first few lessons of training in these fields help him as the story progresses and what new skills has Naruto learned from his respective mentors…we shall see soon enough.

As you can see…Naruto's in quite the company for this mission, and when I say that, I mean in the female company. Sakura, Kin, Hinata, and Kurenai…what will be the outcome of this situation when they each try and get Naruto's attention and will Naruto succumb to being in the company of the four females…who HAVE seen him buck naked?

That is totally up to me at this point and time…but feel free to comment when you can.

I'll work on the next chapters later on of this short arc…and we shall see the results of Naruto's first few weeks of training. And how will Sasuke feel as Naruto's star begins to grow and glow even brighter than his now?

We shall see soon enough as well.